ã€ŠUnrivaled Martial Emperorã€‹


 Chapter 1 - Born Anew

    <h4>Chapter 1 - Born Anew</h4>

    Martial artists cultivate their physiques and temper their souls. They strive to seize the luck of heaven and earth to enhance their strength, seeking immortality.

    The Tianwu Continent was a world where martial artists vied for supremacy. The strong were like kings, overlooking the world, while the weak were like ants, living an ignoble existence.

    The Great Chu Empire, Spring Autumn Sect, a remote mountain path:

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A young man, no more than sixteen or seventeen years old, flew backward, mming heavily onto the ground. His face was slick with blood, and the three primeval stones he had been clutching tightly slipped from his grasp, rolling toward the feet of another young man dressed in ck.

    ¡°Ptooi!¡±

    The young man in ck spat and cursed, ¡°You don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for you. Refusing to surrender the stones until I had to teach you a lesson. You truly deserve this! Do you honestly believe that martial arts trash like yourself deserves to utilize primeval stones for cultivating?¡±

    Another young man, d in gray, picked up the primeval stones and offered them to the ck-clothed teenager respectfully,ughing. ¡°Brother Feng, this trash is just feeling the itch. He wouldn¡¯t feelfortable unless you loosen him up a little.¡±

    Chen Fany face up on the ground, his fresh blood blurring his vision.

    Although he felt indignant, he couldn¡¯t do anything, as Liao Feng''s beating had left him battered and bruised. His tendons and bones ached like they were broken, and he felt weak and powerless. He struggled to even stand up.

    Today was the day that the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s outer sect handed out the monthly allowance. After receiving his three primeval stones, Chen Fan had left the Resources Hall. However, as soon as he had reached a secluded mountain path, Liao Feng blocked his way and demanded that he hand over the stones.

    Chen Fan refused, so Liao Feng had decided to convince him with his actions.

    Chen Fan''s meridians were blocked, and his dantian was as hard as iron. Despite being in the sect for three years, his cultivation had stagnated at the peak of the Body Refinement realm, failing to progress to the Qi Gathering realm. As a result, he was no match for Liao Feng, a third-level Qigong martial artist.

    Liao Feng easily defeated Chen Fan, leaving him battered and bruised. Like a dead dog, he couldn¡¯t even climb to his feet.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a thunderous sound rang out.

    A dark cloud, ck as ink, suddenly loomed over the area, casting a menacing shadow. The lightning shes and thunderous rumblings were terrifying.

    A lightning bolt abruptly plummeted from the sky, striking Chen Fan. He was still lying on the ground, gasping for breath, when the bolt hit him.

    However, before the bolt had even struck him, Chen Fan sensed a terrifying power locking him down. The lightning bolt streaked through the sky, descending upon him menacingly.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    As the lightning bolt descended, Chen Fan attempted to roll out of the way, but it was toote.

    Immediately, electricity surged through his body, causing his skin and flesh to tear apart and char beyond recognition. Every strand of his hair stood on end, giving off a burnt smell.

    ¡°God damn it! Like getting beaten ck and blue wasn¡¯t enough. Now, I¡¯m actually getting struck by lightning. Fu...¡±

    Chen Fan stubbornly clung to hisst breath, cursing as smoke came out of his mouth. Before he could finish his sentence, his eyes rolled back, and he lost consciousness.

    Liao Feng and the youngster in gray were scared out of their minds.

    They were also utterly unprepared for the lightning strike and were paralyzed with fear. It was truly too terrifying.

    A good while passed before the two returned to their senses. They looked up to the sky, puzzled.

    The dark cloud that had enveloped this whole area earlier had scattered, seemingly having gathered only to unleash its fury upon Chen Fan.

    ¡°How strange?¡± Liao Feng couldn¡¯t help but wonder out loud.

    The other teen looked around, smiled, and said, ¡°Brother Feng, that trash must have done something to infuriate the heavens in his past life. That¡¯s why he is a martial trash and even got struck by lightning.¡±

    Liao Feng nodded and said ¡°You¡¯re right. The heavens could no longer stand the sight and wanted to strike him to his death. I have actually served the people by thrashing him and taking his stones. It¡¯s a good deed.¡±

    ¡°Brother Feng... he won¡¯t really die due to the lightning strike, right?¡±

    ¡°Why should we care? It¡¯s none of our business. He was struck to death by lightning. And even if he died at my hands, we don¡¯t have to worry. My older brother is a member of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Do you know about it? Even the Outer Sect Master has to show some respect to them. If he dies, then so be it. I didn''t kill him anyway.¡±

    The other teen nodded repeatedly. ¡°Brother Feng is right.¡±

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go search this trash¡¯s ce. He must have saved up quite a few primeval stones over thest three years. The Outer Sect Grand Competition is just three months away. I want to break through to the fourth level of the Qigong realm. Perhaps then I¡¯ll be able to enter the top 1,000 this time.¡±

    Liao Feng said and walked ahead; before long, Chen Fan was again alone on the mountain path.

    Unbeknownst to many, Chen Fan was currently undergoing a tremendous transformation.

    A golden light streak was hidden within the terrifying lightning bolt from before. This golden light had rushed into his body and swam rapidly along his meridians.

    Chen Fan''s meridians were jammed with impurities, hindering the proper cirction of his primeval qi. However, the golden light was clearing these impurities..

    As a result, ck, oily impurities seeped onto the charred surface of his skin, emitting a foul odor.

    Chan Fan¡¯s meridians were being destroyed and rebuilt. After a few cycles of this process, his meridians had be iparably wider and tougher.

    The golden light darted through Chen Fan¡¯s meridians, soonpleting a cycle and removing all the impurities. Next, it rushed into his dantian, which was like a steel block. Under the impact of the golden light, his dantian opened up as if heaven and earth were being split apart. As the space expanded gradually, it soon became ten times the size of an ordinary martial artist¡¯s dantian.

    After purifying Chen Fan''s meridians and opening up his dantian, the golden light faintly diminished in intensity as if it had expended most of its energy. With a sh, it rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s mind along his meridians.

    The golden light exploded with a bang. A part of it integrated with Chen Fan¡¯s mind, changing his level of martial artsprehension, while the other part transformed into small golden characters that emitted the teaching of the Great Dao; it echoed in his mind continually.

    Chen Fan finally woke up, but it was alreadyte at night.

    Chen Fan examined himself. His clothes were shredded and stained with blood. Apart from that, he noticed the noxious ck residue that emitted a strong odor, threatening to render him unconscious again.

    ¡°This is... the impurities in my body!¡±

    Chen Fan came to a realization, his face revealing a pleasant look of surprise.

    Chen Fan examined his meridians and dantian, and immediately let out a cheer of wonder and joy.

    ¡°This is... primeval qi! I¡¯ve broken through to the first level of the Qigong realm!¡±

    He realized his blocked meridians had be iparably wide, its flow smooth and unobstructed. His iron-like dantian had also opened up, and he could see a strand of primeval qi coiled in the middle of his dantian.

    ¡°I remember getting struck by lightning, and then...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes moved as he tried his best to recall what had happened. With an odd expression on his face, he said, ¡°Could it be that I became like this after I was struck by lightning?¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan''s mind suddenly erupted with an infinite amount of golden light, apanied by the sound of the Great Dao ringing out. The golden characters within his mind flew out, effortlessly integrating into his consciousness.

    ¡°Ah...¡±

    Chen Fan shouted in pain, pressing both his hands against his head. He felt as if his brain was about to blow up.

    Wave after wave of intense pain assaulted him. Chen Fan gritted his teeth tightly, trying not to faint from it.

    Half an hourter, Chen Fan exhaled a long breath of turbid air.

    ¡°Heaven Seizing Art...¡±

    In the dark of the night, Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone bright like stars as he uttered those three words softly.

    The teaching of the Great Dao echoing in his mind was a qi cultivation technique called Heaven Seizing Art. One would know just from its name that this qi cultivation technique was very formidable.

    To seize was to plunder.

    To plunder the primeval qi of heaven and earth for their own use. To plunder the force of heaven and earth to strengthen their physique. To plunder even the cultivation talents of martial artists, thereby bing increasingly demonic.

    ¡°What a domineering cultivation technique!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone.

    Compared to the Heaven Seizing Art, the Guiding Art basic cultivation technique he currently practiced was simply trash of the trash.

    ¡°Could all of this be the great fortune bestowed to me by that lightning bolt?¡± Chen Fan mumbled to himself.

    He realized that after lightning struck him, his meridians were now clear, his dantian had opened, and he had gained a powerful cultivation technique. This was simply paving the way for his rise to power.

    Chen Fan was feeling iparably ecstatic inside. He clenched his fists tightly, trembling with excitement.

    For three years, cultivating had been extremely difficult for him due to his blocked meridians and iron-like dantian.

    Consequently, the primeval energy he absorbed wouldn¡¯t circte well, and his rigid dantian couldn''t amodate it, causing him to remain stagnant at the peak of the Body Refinement realm for three years. Despite his efforts, he failed to progress to the Qi Gathering realm, making him an easy target for bullies.

    Now, his meridians were clear, his dantian was open, and he had reached the first level of the Qigong realm.

    ¡°Haha, I can now cultivate! My meridians are clear, and my dantian is open! I¡¯m no longer trash! I, Chen Fan, will rise from this moment on!¡±

    Chen Fan roared withughter at the sky, venting all the pent-up grievances in his heart.

    It had been three whole years. Today, he felt the clouds were especially clear, and the moon was dazzling.

    ¡°I want to trample everyone who ever bullied me!¡±

    ¡°I want to reach the peak of martial arts, rule over all martial artists, and overlook the world while reigning supreme!¡±

    "I want to pierce the heavens with my gaze and shatter the earth''s limitations on my ambition!"

    Tears streamed down his face. Only those who had experienced such sorrows could ever understand his pain.

    With everything fresh and new, he could now cultivate properly. But before that, he wanted to vent to his heart¡¯s content.

    After venting, Chen Fan could no longer endure the pungent smell. The ck, oily impurities not only smelled, but they also made him feel terrible.

    ¡°I should go take a bath and clean myself up first. This is unbearable.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up. His figure shed under the moonlight as he made his way to a nearby river and jumped in to wash himself.

 Chapter 2 - Breaking Through to Second Level

    <h4>Chapter 2 - Breaking Through to Second Level</h4>

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged on arge limestone rock near the river after taking a refreshing bath in its waters.

    In the Tianwu Continent, martial arts were revered.

    Martial arts practitioners absorbed the primeval qi of heaven and earth to strengthen themselves, enabling them to unleash immense strength measured in thousands of jin. Experts could even transcend spatial constraints to reach celestial bodies like the sun and the moon. At the highest levels, they could even destroy heaven and decimate earth,manding supreme power.[1]

    Despite receiving blessings from a disaster that unblocked his meridians, opened his dantian, and allowed him to break through to the first level of the Qigong realm, Chen Fan was still at the beginning stages of his martial arts journey, existing at the lowest level.

    In martial arts, the first step was Body Refinement, followed by Qi Gathering. In the Qi Gathering realm, a martial artist absorbed primeval qi by practicing qi cultivation techniques. This stage was alsomonly known as the Qigong realm and had nine levels.

    Having obtained the Heaven Seizing Art, Chen Fan wished he could immediately be an exceptional expert under the heavens, standing above the sun, moon, and stars, reigning supreme.

    ¡°Does the Heaven Seizing Art really forcibly plunder the primeval qi of heaven and earth? So domineering! Let me give it a try.¡±

    Chen Fan mumbled to himself and immediately shut his eyes, focusing on the cultivation passage of the Heaven Seizing Art.

    As he began to practice, anomalies started to manifest in the surrounding space.

    Chen Fan seemed to have be a ck hole, giving rise to a terrifying suction force that made the air in the surrounding area rush toward him.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    The air surged with incredible force, like a category ten typhoon was raging through the area. Whirring noises rang out in the area, the surrounding trees rattled, and the gale ripped off their leaves.

    A huge funnel-shaped vortex appeared above Chen Fan. The heaven and earth primeval qi present in the air came rolling in, surging into him along this funnel-shaped vortex.

    The instant he began cultivating, Chen Fan felt warmer and lighter and asfortable as could be. This was something he had never experienced before.

    A warm current flowed into his limbs and skeleton. His flesh and blood seemed to revel in the warmth, eagerly absorbing it like a delicious feast.

    Chen Fan was very aware that thisfortable, warm current was the primeval qi of heaven and earth¡ªa great tonic for martial arts practitioners.

    As such, he began guiding the warm current in his meridians, following the path specified in the Heaven Seizing Art toplete a cycle.

    If one observed from the outside, they would find that the circting path of the Heaven Seizing Art resembled a human figure, precisely tracing the outline of a person.

    After the strand of primeval qi hadpleted a cycle, the much-condensed primeval qi returned to the dantian, increasing the size of the coiled primeval qi in his dantian.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes; the excitement in them was on the verge of overflowing.

    Although he had been cultivating with his eyes shut, he could hear themotion rising around him. That was certainly an unusual phenomenon in cultivation. If they were to witness this scene, people would definitely receive a big scare.

    ¡°To directly plunder the primeval qi in heaven and earth... The Heaven Seizing Art is indeed domineering. With this, my cultivation speed will be more than ten times faster than others!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart thumped excitedly.

    His old cultivation technique was the most basic cultivation technique. Heck, it could be found in roadside stalls. Due to that art, he usually had to spend a long time guiding primeval qi into his body; ultimately, he could only absorb a minuscule amount that was thousands of times less than the Heaven Seizing Art.

    ¡°I absolutely can¡¯t tell others about this. Otherwise, I would lose my life!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly. The Heaven Seizing Art was too shocking. He knew that if news of its power spread, it would stir up greed in others.

    Given his current strength, even a third-level Qigong martial artist would be able to kill him.

    ¡°I have to continue cultivating. I can only protect myself when I¡¯m strong!¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes shed brilliantly. Closing his eyes, he started cultivating the Heaven Seizing Art again. The unusual phenomenon appeared once more.

    Fortunately, this area was very remote, not to mention it waste at night. As such, Chen Fan didn¡¯t have to worry about being discovered by others, and he could cultivate without worries.

    The golden light had expanded Chen Fan''s dantian to ten times its original size. As a result, the amount of primeval qi needed to break through to the second level of the Qigong realm was rather huge, sufficient for others to advance two minor realms.

    Fortunately, the Heaven Seizing Art was domineering enough to extract primeval qi from a several-mile radius, rapidly filling Chen Fan''s dantian with heaven and earth primeval qi.

    The night was dark and still, and the moon''s soft glow cast a silvery sheen over Chen Fan.

    Despite the beautiful night scenery, Chen Fan had no time to appreciate its beauty as he was fully immersed in cultivating.

    The primeval qi surged into Chen Fan like a y ox entering the sea, strengthening his innate breath[2]. A small portion of it was devoured and absorbed by his flesh and blood. It healed his physical injuries and made him stronger.

    The following morning, the sky lightened, signaling the start of a new day.

    Chen Fan shook violently. All his meridians hummed, and the primeval qi in his wide meridians rushed like the sea waves.

    Shockingly, he had broken through to the second level of the Qi Gathering realm.

    Chen Fan clenched his fists, feeling the surging power.

    He suddenly punched out, and the air boomed.

    The air shook, forming a raging air current, and rushed forward, hitting a tree as wide as a bowl. The attack snapped the tree in half.

    Chen Fan could tell that his punch earlier contained a force of 2,300 jin.

    In the nine levels of the Qi Gathering realm, the first level possessed a force of 1,000 jin, and the second level possessed a force of 2,000 jin. With every small realm advancement, a martial artist¡¯s strength would further increase by 1,000 jin.

    Although he was only on the second level, the power of his punch was at 2,300 jin. His strength wasparable to a mid-stage second-level Qigong practitioner.

    ¡°This...¡±

    Chen Fan looked at his palms, a little lost in thought.

    He couldn¡¯t understand why his strength surpassed a second-level Qigong martial artist¡¯s by this much. After thinking about it, he attributed all of it to him being stuck in the Body Refinement realm for three years.

    Moreover, his erged dantian gave him an advantage in terms of primeval qi storage. Although his capacity was still in the early stages of the second level of the Qigong realm, it was ten times greater than that of his peers, effectively making itparable to ate-stage, second-level Qigong practitioner. As a result, his primeval qi wouldst longer during battles.

    ¡°If I see that scumbag Liao Feng again, I¡¯ll definitely have the strength to fight back, unlike before!¡± Chen Fan didn¡¯t bother thinking too deeply about it as a sharp glint shed in his eyes.

    Liao Feng¡¯s purpose for robbing his primeval stones was the Outer Sect Grand Competition in three months.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s outer sect had more than ten thousand disciples. They held recruitments every three years, along with a grandpetition where the bottom 1,000 disciples were expelled from the sect.

    If Chen Fan hadn¡¯t had the fortuitous encounter with the lightning strike, he would have been undoubtedly expelled. However, now...

    ¡°Three months. In these three months, I must raise my cultivation to the fourth level of the Qigong realm or above to ensure I won¡¯t be expelled from the sect. Otherwise, I¡¯d really be letting my father down.¡±

    In cultivation, the amount of primeval qi required to advance to the next level increased exponentially as one progressed. As such, even though Chen Fan practiced the Heaven Seizing Art, he only set his target at the fourth level of the Qigong realm.

    Reaching the fourth level of the Qigong realm guaranteed him a ce in the top 10,000 of thepetition.

    ¡°Now that I have broken through to the second level of the Qigong realm, I can head to the Martial Arts Pavilion to pick out a martial skill. After learning a martial skill, I¡¯ll definitely get back at Liao Feng for yesterday¡¯s beating if I see him again!¡±

    After a period of dedicated cultivation, Chen Fan stabilized his cultivation at the middle stage of the second level, boosting his strength to 2,600 jin. Feeling ready, he finally headed toward the Martial Arts Pavilion.

    1. 1 Jin is rounded to 500 grams, or 1.32 pound ?

    2. Also known as natal breath, the purest state of breathing achieved when highly immersed in cultivating, not needing to physically breathe in or out, instead done through the skin. ?

 Chapter 3 - Forcing Through to the Second Floor

    <h4>Chapter 3 - Forcing Through to the Second Floor</h4>

    Chen Fan followed a pathway and arrived at the Martial Arts Pavilion.

    The Martial Arts Pavilion sat on a cliff, surrounded by blossoming mountain flowers and green trees. It was a tranquil ce.

    Chen Fan hade across several fellow outer sect disciples on his way there. They were each carrying a manual in their hand, treating them like treasures as they left. These people had just picked out a martial art they fancied from the Martial Arts Pavilion and were in a hurry to go practice.

    A few onlookers cast mocking nces at Chen Fan, and a teenager in yellow clothing jeered, ¡°Trash, what are you doing here at the Martial Arts Pavilion? Are you trying to slip in and steal martial arts while the Pavilion Guard Elder is drunk?¡±

    ¡°Audacious! You dare look down on the Pavilion Guard Elder? You should be punished for your crime!¡± Chen Fan shouted back.

    The retort caught the teen in yellow by surprise. Not only the teen but even the other passersby got caught off guard.

    ¡°Trash, you dare shout at me!?¡± shouted the teen after returning to his senses, looking embarrassed and angry. He had intended to ridicule Chen Fan, but thetter had unexpectedly shouted back in retaliation, stunning him.

    ¡°Hmph, what kind of a ce is the Martial Arts Pavilion? And have you forgotten how formidable the Pavilion Guard Elder is? Even a fly wouldn''t dare try to sneak past him, let alone someone like me. And yet, you use me of trying to steal martial arts while the elder is drunk? What are you, if not looking down on the Pavilion Guard Elder!?¡±

    The yellow-clothed teenager turned pale, ncing at the old man guarding the Martial Arts Pavilion¡¯s entrance.

    The old man was leaning against the steps, his head hung low, and his hand holding a gourd filled with wine. They could smell the strong scent of alcohol emanating from him, but they weren¡¯t sure if he was truly drunk or just sleeping.

    The teen in yellow released a sigh of relief after realizing that the elder was paying them no attention. Chen Fan¡¯s words sounded true, but the teen really wasn¡¯t looking down on the elder.

    ¡°nder! Trash, don¡¯t you dare use others! My respect for the Pavilion Guard Elder is endless, with no contempt toward him! You¡¯re just ndering me!¡±

    Chen Fan said in disdain, ¡°nder? You? Do I need to? Pavilion Guard Elder is magnanimous, so I won¡¯t bother with you this time. Get lost!¡±

    ¡°Trash, just you wait!¡±

    The yellow-clothed teenager red at Chen Fan with hatred, then shifted his gaze toward the elder. Worried that continuing to argue would disturb the elder and lead to severe consequences, he hastily departed, leaving behind a threatening remark.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t take the yellow-clothed teenager¡¯s words to heart. He was no longer the same person as before; he wouldn¡¯t let anyone humiliate him.

    He strode forth in the Martial Arts Pavilion¡¯s direction. Some people still hadn¡¯t left, waiting to watch Chen Fan embarrass himself. After all, a Body Refinement trash wanted to enter the Martial Arts Pavilion. It was nothing but wishful thinking!

    The Pavilion Guard Elder guarded the Martial Arts Pavilion, but its entrance and each floor were protected by ayer of light that only allowed those with the required cultivation level to pass through.

    Chen Fan was only in the Body Refinement realm, which wasn¡¯t even enough to enter through the Martial Arts Pavilion¡¯s gates. So, they all waited eagerly for Chen Fan to embarrass himself.

    ¡°Hey, Kid, your brown-nosing is a little too much,¡± the elder blurted when Chen Fan approached him, his head still hanging low.

    Chen Fan rubbed the tip of his nose upon hearing the elder¡¯s words.

    Indeed, he had borrowed the elder¡¯s name to humiliate that teenager earlier, but he had no idea that the elder had heard it all. The elder had been pretending to be asleep andpletely drunk.

    ¡°Please judge wisely, Elder. This disciple said nothing but the truth,¡± Chen Fan hurriedly exined.

    The elder snorted, waved his hand dismissively, and said, ¡°No need to get nervous. While you went a bit overboard with your ttery, I found it quite amusing. Anyway, ording to our sect rules, those below the third level of the Qigong realm can only choose martial arts on the first floor.¡±

    ¡°This disciple understands,¡± Chen Fan nodded, saluted the elder, and stepped into the pavilion.

    The outer sect disciples waiting to watch Chen Fan embarrass himself were stunned when they saw him talking briefly with the Pavilion Guard Elder before entering the Martial Arts Pavilion.

    What had happened?

    The trash of the outer sect had actually entered the Martial Arts Pavilion. Had he advanced to the first level of the Qigong realm?

    ¡°The Pavilion Guard Elder must have let him enter as a favor!¡± said someone viciously.

    The Martial Arts Pavilion was enormous, spanning several hundred meters in diameter. It housed countless bookshelves, stacked row upon row, containing a staggering variety of martial arts manuals and cultivation techniques¡ªat least ten thousand volumes in total.

    Martial art manuals had four main tiers¡ª Dirt, Profound, Earth, and Heaven. And each tier was further divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper.[1]

    The outer sect¡¯s Martial Arts Pavilion was restricted to the outer sect disciples and primarily contained martial arts manuals for the Qi Gathering realm. The highest-tier martial art manuals avable were at the upper-dirt tier, located on the third floor, and required a seventh-level Qigong realm cultivation to ess.

    The first floor only had lower-dirt tier manuals, and it had them in abundance. Chen Fan browsed through them roughly. Their powers were limited, so he felt they weren¡¯t good enough. He nced at the stairs leading up to the second floor, desiring more.

    The higher the martial art manual¡¯s tier, the greater its might. Chen Fan wanted to pick a middle-dirt tier martial skill to practice. Since he had started at a disadvantagepared to others, he sought to catch up as quickly as possible.

    ¡°Although I am only at the second level of the Qigong realm, my strength is at 2,600 jin,parable to ate-stage, second-level Qigong martial artist. The elder said only third-level or above Qigong martial artists can enter the second floor, but... Let¡¯s give it a try. If I fail, I¡¯ll just choose a martial skill from this floor.¡±

    After pondering briefly, he walked toward the stairs to the second floor.

    Just as Chen Fan started up the stairs, he encountered an obstacle. A transparent barrier materialized in front of him, blocking his path.

    Chen Fan was not surprised by this.

    With so many disciplesing in and out of the Martial Arts Pavilion every day, the Pavilion Guard Elder couldn¡¯t possibly keep an eye on all of them and determine who should be allowed on the second floor and who should stay on the first floor

    This membrane functioned as a filter, allowing only those who met the required cultivation level to pass through. Chen Fan''s second-level Qigong cultivation fell short of the standard, preventing him from advancing to the next floor.

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t discouraged, however. His primeval qi swelled and surged out, pushing the membrane, trying to prate it and enter forcibly.

    Chen Fan pressed forward, step by step, indenting the membrane with each step. However, the membrane was iparably tough and wouldn¡¯t break. Moreover, the force of the recoil kept increasing, trying to eject Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan gritted his teeth and pushed forward with all his might, fighting against the rebounding force. His veins bulged, his face flushed, and his blood pumped rapidly as he summoned everyst bit of his strength.

    Outside the Martial Arts Pavilion, the Pavilion Guard Elder lifted his wine gourd and took a swig. Some wine spilled out from the corners of his mouth. A strange light shed in his eyes as he mumbled, ¡°Strong-willed and resilient. A decent seedling. Seeing as you tried to suck up to this elder, I¡¯ll help you a little...¡±

    Chen Fan was about to reach his limits; suddenly, he heard something rupturing and saw fissures appearing in the membrane, spreading like spiderwebs. Immediately after, he noticed the rebound from the membrane diminishing rapidly, so he took a fierce step forward.

    With a poof, the membrane holding him back shattered. Due to the inertia, Chen Fan staggered forward, nearly falling.

    Chen Fan steadied himself and realized he had already reached the second floor. As he nced back, a peculiar light flickered across his eyes.

    Earlier, Chen Fan had clearly almost reached his limits and would have been repelled by the membrane''s umted rebounding force. However, the membrane''s rebounding force had unexpectedly weakened, dropping to a levelparable to a third-level Qigong cultivator. This allowed him to pass through the membrane unhindered.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    Chen Fan was a little confused. However, oveing the membrane¡¯s resistance and being able to pick out a martial skill on the second floor was great news to him.

    He didn¡¯t bother thinking too deeply about it and rushed up to the second floor in just a few steps.

    1. The martial arts tiers are based on the excerpt ¡°ÌìÐþ¶øµØ»Æ¡± found in an ancient Chinese divination text, Yi Jing or I-Ching, usually tranted as Book of Changes or ssic of Changes. Multiple meanings can be understood here. The Heaven is colored ck (A very deep blue close to ck), incredibly distant, or deeply Profound, unable to beprehended, while the Earth is Yellow. Yellow could be interpreted as the color of Dirt, human skin, and millet (ancient China''s most important food grain). Here, I have to decide which word to represent the two lower ranks. ck or Profound, and Yellow or Dirt. Profound sounds good and is amon word in cultivation novels, but calling a martial art Dirt rank sounds a little iffy, and using Profound/Yellow seems odd to have a random color in the rankings. What are your thoughts? ?

 Chapter 4 - Thousand Hand Seal

    <h4>Chapter 4 - Thousand Hand Seal</h4>

    The second floor was just as big as the first one, but it had half as many books as the first. Therefore, the space seemed rather empty.

    Since Chen Fan had the Heaven Seizing Art, he naturally didn¡¯t need any other cultivation techniques. So, he made a beeline to the martial skills section.

    ¡°Golden Stone Fist. This punching technique is fierce and overbearing. When practiced until major mastery, you can break stone bs with your bare hands. But training your fists to be as hard as metal and stone won''t be easy. It will take a lot of effort and endurance.¡±

    Chen Fan quickly nced at the manual and then returned it, his expression remaining neutral.

    Although Golden Stone Fist was powerful, with more than enough explosive power, itcked sustainability. It wasn¡¯t the martial skill he wanted.

    ¡°Raging mes de Art. When practiced to the peak, one can deliver nine shes almost simultaneously, each sh as fierce as a zing fire. It has high attacking power but requires arge amount of primeval qi to execute. Suitable for martial artists with robust primeval qi.¡±

    Chen Fan took the Raging mes de Art and flipped through its pages, feeling quite impressed; ultimately, he returned this manual to the shelf, too, as he didn¡¯t have a de. Given his current circumstances, he couldn¡¯t afford to support his cultivation and buy something precious like a de.

    ¡°Venom Dragon Drill Whip Technique. Turns a long whip into a venomous dragon, entangling one¡¯s enemy and strangling them. Can also deal a fatal strike, prating the enemy like a drill and killing them instantly.¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t pick this one either because the Venom Dragon Drill Whip Technique¡¯s requirements for a weapon were too high.

    Very few martial artists chose whips as their weapons. Although their long-range attacks were very powerful, their power fell sharply in closebat. Also, whips were rarer than other weapons; consequently, they had be costly items.

    ¡°Flying Sword Technique. This sword technique is faintly discernible and unpredictable. Its form is like a breeze¡ªlight and elegant...¡±

    Chen Fan pursed his lips and said, ¡°Excessively elegant, butcking in power. Will look good, but won''t be potent.¡±

    ¡°Clear Wind Palm...¡±

    ¡°Plum Blossom Breaker...¡±

    Chen Fan perused martial arts manuals one after another, returning them after briefly scanning their contents. In doing so, he inadvertently discovered their shorings.

    ¡°Hmm? When did myprehension be so keen and my thoughts so agile, allowing me to assess the merits and ws of these martial arts?¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly realized, having gone through tens of martial arts manuals.

    In the past, not only were Chen Fan''s meridians blocked and his dantian rigid, but his understanding of martial arts was also merely average.

    However, Chen Fan had realized that his mind had be remarkably agile, as if his Governor Vessel and Conception Vessel acupoints had opened, giving him a sense of rebirth.

    ¡°Did the lightning strike perhaps alter my martial artsprehension?¡±

    Chen Fan felt ted. Getting struck by lightning had pretty much improved his talents in all areas.

    ¡°As if the Heaven Seizing Art alone wasn¡¯t tyrannical enough, the lightning bolt also elevated my other talents. I should use it in the future,¡± said Chen Fan, thinking about the Heaven Seizing Art.

    Not only could it plunder the primeval qi of heaven and earth, but it could also pige other martial artists'' martial talents andprehension, allowing its user to be even more demonic. However, there is a limitation¡ªit could only target martial artists who had recently passed away.

    Chen Fan looked around the second floor¡¯s martial skill area; in the end, he failed to find anything satisfactory.

    Suddenly, a creaking sound came from under his feet.

    Looking down, he noticed that one of the floor tiles was slightly elevated, suggesting somethingy hidden beneath it.

    Chen Fan¡¯s curiosity was piqued. He crouched down, moving this loose, raised floor tile to the side. He immediately discovered a manual lying there, hidden from everyone. The pages of the book had turned yellow with age.

    ¡°This is...¡±

    Chen Fan picked up this secret manual and flipped it open. On the first page, three big golden words were written: Thousand Hand Seal. The golden light emanating from the letters was almost blinding.

    ¡°It¡¯s actually a martial skill. I wonder who hid it here.¡±

    Chen Fan muttered as he flipped through its pages; suddenly, something caught his eye.

    The Thousand Hand Seal turned out to be a lower-profound tier martial skill, consisting of four different seal styles: the Vajra Seal, Chakravarti Seal, Yama Seal, and Avalokitesvara Seal.

    Regrettably, this Thousand Hand Seal manual contained only the first two styles, greatly reducing its powers. So, it was nowparable to a middle-dirt tier martial skill.

    Chen Fan thought it was a pity and continued turning the pages.

    The first style, Vajra Seal, was characterized by its extreme forcefulness and firmness, with seemingly boundless power. After practicing it, one¡¯s primeval qi would condense into golden hand seals, like the hands of the Vajra Buddha, possessing incredible durability and an astonishingly potent offensive capability.

    The second style, Chakravarti Seal, was characterized by its wave-like motions,bining both force and gentleness to provide seemingly endless power.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart blossomed with joy when he read the introductions of these two styles.

    After browsing through so many martial skills, the Thousand Hand Seal was the one that impressed him the most.

    Although executing these skills requiredrge amounts of primeval qi, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t worried since his primeval qi was very robust.

    ¡°Although this Thousand Hand Seal manual only contains the first two styles, it''s certainly a great middle-dirt tier martial skill. If I can obtain the two remaining styles in the future, practicing them will be much easier, too.¡±

    ¡°This is the one. Since it was hidden, no one ever discovered it, but I found it today. It seems fate has brought the Thousand Hand Seal and me together. Maybe it''s been waiting for my arrival."

    Chen Fan held the Thousand Hand Seal manual close to his chest and put the floor tile back in its ce. He hurried to the first floor, greeted the Pavilion Guard Elder, and left.

    He nned to find a remote ce to practice this new martial skill, but before he could go far, the yellow-clothed teenager from before stopped him.

    ¡°Trash, I didn¡¯t expect you to actually break through to the first level of the Qigong realm. What surprising news.¡±

    Chen Fan had scared off the teen in yellow by using the Pavilion Guard Elder¡¯s name, but the teen hadn¡¯t gone far. How could he not deduce Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level after seeing him enter the Martial Arts Pavilion?

    ¡°You waited here for so long just to tell me this?¡± Chen Fan looked at the yellow-clothed teenager indifferently.

    ¡°Woah, nice one, trash. You think you¡¯re qualified to talk back to me now that you are a first-level Qigong master?¡±

    The yellow-clothed teenager sneered coldly and took a step forward. The power of his second-level Qigong cultivation surged, creating a whirlwind that swept toward Chen Fan. With a fierce smile, he said, ¡°You have two choices before you. First, kneel and kowtow to me three times, calling me your grandfather, and I will spare you this time. Second, I will beat you until you ept option one. Which option will you choose?¡±

    ¡°I choose the third option,¡± Chen Fan responded, a cold glint flickering in his eyes.

    ¡°The third?¡± The yellow-clothed youngster was confused.

    Chen Fan suddenly raised his fists and viciously said, ¡°Screw you!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s fist went flying with those words toward the yellow-clothed teenager.

    ¡°You wanna die!¡± shouted the yellow-clothed teenager angrily. Unexpectedly, Chen Fan had decided to fight the second-level Qigong martial artist. What a daring move! Since that was the case, the yellow-clothed teen decided to teach Chen Fan a lesson and make him understand his ce. Even if Chen Fan had advanced to the first level of the Qigong realm, he was still nothing more than trash.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    The yellow-clothed teenager roared. He also sent out a punch, and his primeval qi surged. Two thousand jin of strength rushed out like a flood, his face carrying a ferocious smile. He had already imagined the scene of his punch breaking Chen Fan¡¯s arm.

    <i>Bam!</i>

    However, the teen¡¯splexion instantly changed when his and Chen Fan¡¯s fists struck.

    He felt a force far exceeding his 2,000 jin pushing against him. Chen Fan''s terrifying strength surged into his arm like a torrent, causing a tearing sensation within his limb.

    ¡°Did you think shouting will make you stronger?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice rang out coldly. An even more ferocious force rushed into the yellow-clothed teenager¡¯s arm. Immediately, the sound of bone cracking rang out.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    The yellow-clothed teenager released a miserable scream and flew backward, crashing into the ground. His right arm was bent into a weird shape, his bone broken.

    Chen Fan strode over and looked down at the yellow-clothed teenager, making the teen tremble with a face full of horror.

    He simply couldn''tprehend how someone like Chen Fan, whom everyone considered trash, had undergone such a sudden and significant growth in strength.

    ¡°Now... What should you be doing?¡±

    The chilling voice rang in the yellow-clothed teenager¡¯s ears, making him shiver. He immediately bottled up his pain, kneeled, and kowtowed to Chen Fan three times. ¡°Grandfather...¡±

    <i>Bang!</i>

    However, as soon as the first ¡°grandfather¡± left his mouth, Chen Fan sent him flying with a kick. ¡°Get lost. I don¡¯t have a stupid grandson like you.¡±

    With confident strides, Chen Fan departed from the scene.

 Chapter 5 - Unexpected Boon

    <h4>Chapter 5 - Unexpected Boon</h4>

    Instead of returning to his residence, Chen Fan took a few detours along the way and eventually arrived at a secluded grove far removed from the bustling city.

    Within the heart of the grove, there was a clearing approximately ten meters in radius, where massive stones, around two meters high, stood scattered haphazardly,

    Adjacent to the grove, there was a magnificent waterfall. A torrent of water, resembling a white dragon, cascaded down from a cliff that stood tens of meters tall. The spray of water droplets filled the air, asionally creating the enchanting sight of a rainbow.

    Chen Fan had identally found this serene and picturesque ce hidden from the main thoroughfares and immediately recognized its potential for cultivation.

    Sitting down atop a limestone, Chen Fan took out the Thousand Hands Seal manual, which he had previously tucked away in his bosom. He couldn''t contain his excitement as he prepared to practice this martial skill for the first time.

    Earlier, he had taken a quick look at the manual in the Martial Arts Pavilion. Now, he had to dedicate his time to carefully reading andprehending the profound teachings within the Thousand Hands Seal.

    The golden light had altered his martial artsprehension level, but even he found the passage and its small, densely packed words quiteplicated.

    In the past, it would have taken him days, if not weeks, to fully grasp their meaning. However, his mind now worked like a machine, allowing him toprehend many aspects with just a single nce. He could even understand the more intricate sections after some thoughtful consideration.

    About an hourter, Chen Fan flipped over to thest page of Thousand Hands Seal.

    Suddenly, he realized that something was off with thest page¡ªit was thicker than all the other pages.

    Curiosity piqued, Chen Fan carefully examined the edges of the page and noticed that they were thinner than the middle portion. Narrowing his eyes, he muttered, ¡°Is something hidden here too?¡±

    Chen Fan picked up the Thousand Hands Seal manual and held it against the sun, revealing the item concealed within the pages. Had he not examined the page, he would have failed to detect the hidden item.

    Using a bit of saliva on his finger, Chen Fan delicately moistened a corner of the thin sheet of paper, allowing him to lift it. As he slowly unfolded it, a golden piece of paper slipped and fell to the ground.

    Chen Fan picked up the golden paper at his feet. He discovered that it contained nearly a thousand minuscule ck words, densely written. Each character was norger than a mosquito. It took him the better part of a day to decipher the contents.

    The golden paper recorded a body refining method called the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. It was an earth-tier body refining cultivation technique with a total of fifteenyers.

    After mastering it, a cultivator¡¯s physique would be as strong as an ancient ferocious beast, with each move carrying the might of ten thousand elephants.

    The first to thirdyers were called Strength Refining.

    The fourth to sixthyers were called Bone Tempering.

    The seventh to ninthyers were called Body Strengthening.

    The tenth to twelfthyers were called Divine Strength.

    The thirteenth to fifteenthyers were known as Myriad Elephants.

    After reading the contents of the golden paper, Chen Fan was shocked beyond words. His expression reflected his astonishment and disbelief.

    An earth-tier technique?

    Body refining technique?

    The strength of myriad elephants?

    The mere concept of possessing the strength of ten thousand wild elephants seemed unfathomable to him.

    Not even a Yuanfu realm expert would have the strength of ten thousand elephants!

    ¡°What is this, a two-for-one deal?¡±

    Chen Fan looked iparably excited when he came back to his senses.

    The Myriad Elephants Divine Art hidden within the Thousand Hands Seal secret manual was simply an unexpected and extraordinary blessing.

    Furthermore, if he advanced to the seventhyer, the realm of Body Strengthening, his body would be so tough that it would be impervious to swords and des. And in the Divine Strength realm, he would be so powerful that he could destroy a mountain with a punch.

    As far as Chen Fan understood, body-refining cultivation techniques were scarce. Each manual held immense value, and the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, being an earth-tier martial art, was an unparalleled treasure. Even if one searched his sect from end to end, they wouldn¡¯t find another manual like this.

    ording to rumors, ancient body cultivators specialized in strengthening their physiques. With their immense strength, they could effortlessly demolish mountains, surpassing even ancient Qi cultivators in terms of power. However, the body cultivation path had gradually declined over time, and the inheritances passed down to the present era had greatly diminished.

    The physique of a martial artist served as their foundation, but cultivating it was an arduous task, as it required enduring unimaginable pain repeatedly.

    Ordinary people couldn¡¯t endure such pain, leading to the gradual decline of the body cultivation path over the years. Consequently, qi cultivation had be quite prevalent in the current era.

    However, one couldn¡¯t deny that body cultivation was very powerful.

    This was particrly evident for cultivators who practiced both qi and body cultivation simultaneously. They stood out among their peers at the same cultivation level and could effortlessly contend with those of higher cultivation levels. Nevertheless, such individuals were few and far between.

    ¡°My primeval qi is much thicker than those in the same cultivation level, so mybat strength will also be above them. If I top it off with the Myriad Elephants Divine Art by refining my physique, I will be something like a divine weapon with infinite strength, invulnerable to des or spears. I¡¯ll be able to jump ranks and fight martial artists who are a small cultivation realm or maybe even two above me.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone brilliantly. He was really loving this unexpected boon.

    Although body cultivation was hard and painful, it was nothingpared to the humiliation he had endured in the past three years. It reminded him that those without strength would forever be humiliated, while the strong would be respected.

    If he couldn¡¯t endure this bit of suffering, how could he even talk about stepping onto the peak of martial arts or bing a sovereign, looking down on all the experts under the heavens?

    ......

    In the grove, the sound of wind and thunder rang as if a level ten typhoon was blowing, sweeping up all the gravel on the ground.

    Chen Fan was practicing the first style of the Thousand Hands Seal: the Vajra Seal.

    His shirt was already drenched in sweat, and white smoke rose from his head.

    He had already spent half a day practicing here, but there was no sign of fatigue on his face; instead, he looked extremely energetic and excited.

    Primeval qi surged into Chen Fan¡¯s hands and soon gained a faint golden color, emitting a faint yellowish light.

    ¡°Go!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly struck arge stone ahead with his palm. With a boom, the air shook, and he saw a faint golden palm materialize.

    This faint golden palm instantly flew andnded on thatrge rock. A deep handprint was imprinted into the surface, apanied by tiny cracks radiating from the impact.

    Seeing the oue of this palm strike, Chen Fan furrowed his brow and shook his head, extremely dissatisfied.

    Even though he was only practicing a remnant of theplete manual, the Thousand Hands Seal should possess far greater power as a lower profound tier martial skill.

    In his imagination, that palm strike should have pulverized therge stone into fine powder, rather than merely leaving a palm print several inches deep.

    Of course, the half of the Thousand Hands Seal Chen Fan had was only a middle dirt tier martial skill at best, but it still wasn¡¯t easy to practice. Even with the enhancements to his cognitive abilities granted by the golden light, Chen Fan still needed to dedicate considerable time and effort to practicing the skill.

    The palm strike from before was merely at the basic level of mastery, not yet reaching the level of minor mastery. He could only disy the Vajra Seal¡¯s true might after reaching the minor mastery stage.

    Chen Fan started practicing again.

    He directed his primeval qi along the same path as before when he executed the Vajra Seal, channeling it into his palms. With each strike, he bombarded therge stone, palm after palm.

    Every time Chen Fan practiced, he would notice the areas he wascking in and improve them. As a result, each palm strike became stronger than thest; soon, he had mastered the Vajra Seal to a higher level.

    Practicing the Vajra Seal required substantial amounts of primeval qi. Despite having abundant primeval qi, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t keep up with endless practice. Therefore, he would switch to the Myriad Elephants Divine Art whenever his primeval qi was depleted.

    The Myriad Elephants Divine Art didn¡¯t consume much primeval qi at the Strength Refiningyer. It only needed a minimal amount of primeval qi to nourish his body after borrowing external forces to temper it.

    Upon reaching the fourthyer of Bone Tempering, he would need to transform his primeval qi into wild elephants and integrate them into his blood, flesh, tendon, and bones. At that time, the consumption of primeval qi would be very high.

    As for using external forces to temper his flesh, Chen Fan chose a self-muttion method without hesitation. He exposed his torso and charged toward the surroundingrge stones, mming into them repeatedly.

    Chen Fan could feel his organs shaking with each m, feeling like he would vomit them out soon. He felt woozy from the impact; every inch of his body was in pain and covered in bruises.

    However, all this pain made Chen Fan think of strength, bing stronger. He gritted his teeth and persisted.

    After all, body cultivation demanded unwavering perseverance. If Chen Fan could endure all of it, all his efforts would be rewarded.

    Every time he was about to crumble from the impact, Chen Fan would sit down with his legs crossed and activate the Heaven Seizing Art. By doing so, he would guide more Qi into his body, replenishing the primeval qi in his dantian. Consequently, a portion of this primeval qi would also nourish his physical form.

    As a result, he grew stronger with each practice session.

 Chapter 6 - Minor Mastery

    <h4>Chapter 6 - Minor Mastery</h4>

    Amidst this arduous yet euphoric cultivation, three days swiftly passed by.

    During these three days, wind and thunder often rang out in this remote grove, apanied by golden light shes. It appeared as if a precious treasure had manifested in this world, but it was merely Chen Fan diligently practicing the Vajra Seal.

    Through relentless repetition over the past three days, Chen Fan¡¯s execution of Vajra Seal had be smooth, devoid of any dys. He had be extremely familiar with it. This level of mastery resulted from countless repetitions, numbering in the tens if not hundreds.

    Primeval qi circted and flowed into Chen Fan¡¯s palms, making them shine like the sun, illuminating an area of three meters around him. As his primeval qi stirred up, he thrust out his right hand in a powerful strike.

    Suddenly, a palm seal, seemingly forged from gold, materialized. Even the lines on the palm could be seen clearly. Golden light emanated from the seal, exuding a formidable aura capable of toppling mountains.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    An explosion rang out.

    The palm had forced the air in its palm to explode, forming a fierce shock wave that spread in all directions.

    <i>Bam!</i>

    The golden palm seal smashed violently into arge stone. A loud bang rang out, and therge stone immediately exploded, and the resultant fragments flew out in all directions.

    The golden palm dissipated. Chen Fan stood in ce, looking at his palm with surprise and joy.

    ¡°This is the power of the Vajra Seal? I have merely achieved minor mastery, but I can already make a stone weighing thousands of jin explode? This palm strike likely carried nearly 3,200 jin of strength at the very least!¡±

    His cultivation had advanced from the early stage of the second level of the Qigong realm to thete stage, and his strength increased from 2,600 jin to 2,900 jin. Furthermore, after enduring three days of intense self-mutting training, his physical strength had increased by another 100 jin. In other words, his full-force punch would possess a striking power of 3,000 jin without using martial skills.

    This strength was alreadyparable to an early-stage third-level Qigong martial artist.

    That palm strike from before carried close to 3,200 jin of strength, thanks to the boost from the Vajra Seal. It resembled an all-out punch from a middle-stage, third-level Qigong martial artist. How could he not be pleasantly surprised by it?

    In other words, Vajra Seal, at minor mastery, increased his power by another 200 jin. One should not underestimate the significance of this increment. It could determine the oue of a battle between martial artists of the same cultivation level, potentially deciding victory, defeat, or even life and death.

    ¡°All this while I have only achieved minor mastery? What would happen at major mastery or...plete mastery? Wouldn¡¯t the increase in power be even more terrifying!?¡±

    The thought left Chen Fan excited and expectant.

    The lightning strike had transformed the human named Chen Fan. His meridians had be wide and tough, his dantian ten times bigger than others, and even his martial artsprehension had improved.

    If anyone else were practicing Vajra Seal instead, achieving minor mastery without training for ten days, perhaps even half a month, would have been impossible. Chen Fan, on the other hand, only needed three days.

    ¡°Vajra Seal is at minor mastery. Now, I¡¯ll cultivate the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the firstyer. This will increase my strength further. Then, I wouldn¡¯t be afraid of fighting against even ate-stage, third-level Qigong martial artist.

    ¡°Not only that, I am now at thete stage of the second level of the Qigong realm. If I advance to the third level, I can defeat almost all martial artists with third-level cultivation and be on equal footing with experts at the fourth level of the Qigong realm!¡±

    Chen Fan felt full of confidence.

    Previously, he had set his goal to reach the fourth level of the Qigong realm before the Outer Sect Grand Competition started. In hindsight, he felt that his goal had been quite humble.

    His current strength was alreadyparable to a middle-stage, third-level Qigong martial artist. Entering the top 10,000 in the Outer Sect Grand Competition wouldn¡¯t be too big of a problem.

    ¡°It is rumored that the sect will reward the top 100 disciples with martial arts, elixirs, treasures, or weapons. They can also directly enter the inner sect and be an inner sect disciple, standing above all. The reward for the top 10 is even better: ess to a blessednd to train. It will surely increase their cultivation.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart began thumping violently, his ambitions rising.

    ¡°But my current cultivation is still too low. Let alone the top 100, I can¡¯t even enter the top 1,000 with it. Increasing my cultivation is what I should be focusing on. Only with a high enough cultivation level backing me up will I be able to shine brightly at the Outer Sect Grand Competition.¡±

    ¡°I have already achieved minor mastery with the Vajra Seal, so any more immediate progress is impossible. I also can¡¯t achieve a breakthrough in my cultivation in just days. So, now I shall focus on cultivating the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.¡±

    Although three days wasn¡¯t long, Chen Fan¡¯s physique had be much tougher under his self-muttion training. One could tell from the many small stones scattered on the ground how much Chen Fan had suffered over thest three days.

    There were now noticeably fewerrge stones inside the clearing, but the ground now had many more stones of different sizes and shapes.

    This resulted from Chen Fan practicing the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, charging right into thoserge stones time after time, shattering theserge stones and turning them into pebbles.

    Under this kind of refining, his skin had be rough, no longer as smooth and shiny as before.

    Seeing the few remainingrge stones in the surrounding area, Chen Fan furrowed his brows.

    Crazily charging half-naked into boulders was a good but slow way of training. If he wanted to break through to the firstyer, he would need another six to seven days of practice. He needed to think of another, quicker way to refine his physique.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell onto the waterfall by the side. A spark of inspiration ignited within him as he swiftly devised a more effective approach.

    He ran to the bottom of the waterfall, trembling as he beheld the powerful cascade plummeting from a height of tens of meters.

    The force of the waterfall''s impact was equivalent to thousands of jin. Chen Fan wasn¡¯t sure he could endure the battering if he stood directly under the waterfall.

    ¡°Screw it!¡±

    A resolute and unwavering expression crossed Chen Fan''s face. Suffer the harshest pains would allow him to stand above others. He would have to learn to endure if he wished to be strong. He had to endure it all, no matter how painful or tiring.

    Chen Fan took off his shirt and walked toward the bottom of the waterfall. He found arge stone sitting there. He could stand on it to receive the battering of the waterfall.

    One could see the clear contours of Chen Fan¡¯s naked upper body. Although his muscles were not excessively bulging, they possessed explosive strength.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The waterfall¡¯s water seemingly fell from the sky like the heaviest stone in the world, weighing thousands of jin and crashing into Chen Fan. He gritted his teeth and stood atop thatrge stone.

    Chen Fan cried miserably as if his bones had shattered. The torrent directly knocked him away, and he fell into the pool. He trembled and convulsed non-stop, sucking in breaths of cold air.

 Chapter 7 - Breaking Through to Strength Refining

    <h4>Chapter 7 - Breaking Through to Strength Refining</h4>

    As Chen Fan positioned himself in the middle of the waterfall, he experienced an intense sensation as if his every bone was on the verge of shattering. The force generated by the crashing waterfall exceeded 3,000 jin, equivalent to the full-force attack of a third-level Qigong expert.

    Fortunately, he had grown much tougher from the three days of training. Otherwise, that impact would have broken his spine.

    A quarter of an hourter, Chen Fan felt much better, so he walked out of the pool, still struggling.

    Looking at the torrential downpour resembling a silver water python, Chen Fan rolled his eyes and returned to the pool again.

    With his primeval qi surging continuously, he forcefully resisted the impact of the water. Climbing onto therge stone, he assumed the lotus position and clenched his teeth, allowing the torrent to crash directly onto his body.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan trembled as his previously straight spine was instantly forced into a bend by the relentless force of the water.

    That water dragon fell endlessly, and like arge hand, it exerted immense pressure on his back and prevented him from straightening up.

    The intense pain kept assaulting him. Chen Fan gritted his teeth, enduring it all stubbornly, but he still couldn¡¯t help but let out whimpers like a wild beast.

    Time seemed to pass swiftly in this grueling ordeal.

    Chen Fan gradually adapted to the impact of the water current.

    Although he still felt the sharp pain in his back, he had grown somewhat numb to this suffering. He had be ustomed to it.

    A whole day passed by in this manner, and as the early morning of the next day arrived...

    Suddenly, the primeval qi in heaven and earth stirred and receded violently like the tide. Chen Fan was sitting directly under the waterfall in the center of that contraction. The primeval qi entered his skin and waspletely devoured.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan shook violently as his skin shone like the stars. He felt a warm current spread from inside himself, enveloping his entire body soon.

    A powerful aura erupted from Chen Fan, blocking the crashing waters by creating an air barrier.

    The corner of Chen Fan¡¯s lips lifted as he felt faint excitement.

    After enduring three days of rigorous self-muttion refinement and subjecting himself to the relentless battering of the waterfall, Chen Fan¡¯s perseverance paid off as he sessfully cultivated the firstyer of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡ªStrength Refining.

    Chen Fan stood up slowly as a powerful force gathered inside him. The waterfall crashing onto him could no longer push him down, not even an inch.

    Stepping into the firstyer meant Chen Fan had taken his first step into Myriad Elephants Divine Art. He was now stronger and tougher, able to survive three full-force attacks from a fourth-level Qigong martial artist.

    He stood there, allowing the waterfall to keep crashing onto him, remaining still like the stone beneath his feet.

    He could now receive the attacks of a third-level Qigong martial artist without getting injured. He still might not be a match forte-stage or peak third-stage Qigong martial artists, but those at the third level definitely couldn¡¯t injure him.

    ¡°The Myriad Elephants Divine Art is indeed extraordinary. I have just broken through to the firstyer, and it has already increased my defense by this much. At Bone Tempering or Body Strengthening, wouldn¡¯t I be able to move mountains and be invulnerable to weapons?¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes gleamed with excitement as he leaped forward, covering a distance of three meters in a single bound. With another powerful leap, he reached the shore and struck his palm toward arge limestone there.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Therge limestone weighing 3,000 jin shattered. Chen Fan looked at his palm, muttering, ¡°The firstyer of Strength Refining increased my physical strength by 300 jin. Now, I can sweep through any martial artist under the fourth level of the Qigong realm!¡±

    A sense of heroism surged in Chen Fan¡¯s chest. He wanted to find someone with a third-level Qigong cultivation for a fight and test if he was as good as he thought.

    Filled with confidence, he left the ce in high spirits.

    ¡°Chen Fan,¡± a gentle voice called out from behind as he passed by a za.

    Chen Fan looked back, and a smile appeared on his face.

    A middle-aged man in his thirties stood behind Chen Fan. His looks were ordinary, but he had a unique air around him, and he was smiling at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Uncle Qin,¡± Chen Fan approached the man and greeted him respectfully.

    This man was Qin Changkong, an elder of the outer sect. Chen Fan¡¯s father and Elder Changkong were fellow disciples and close friends.

    After Chen Fan reached the age suitable for practicing martial arts, his father had sent him to the Spring Autumn Sect and asked Qin Changkong to keep an eye out for him.

    Qin Changkong was the elder in charge of the Resources Hall and was responsible for allocating resources to the outer sect disciples every month.

    Over the past three years, Qin Changkong had taken rather good care of Chen Fan. He would always allocate him primeval stones of a slightly higher quality and sometimes even gave him an extra primeval stone, treating him exceptionally well.

    ¡°Chen Fan, the Outer Sect Grand Competition ising up in three months. No matter the final results, don¡¯t feel discouraged, and don¡¯t give up on cultivation. Here are some primeval stones I¡¯ve saved up. Use them to cultivate properly, and try your best to break through to the Qi Gathering realm.¡±

    Qin Changkong said seriously and sincerely as he took out a small cloth pouch from his bosom and handed it to Chen Fan.

    He was well aware of Chen Fan¡¯s situation. Chen Fan had been stuck at the peak of the Body Refinement realm for three years, failing to advance to the first level of the Qigong realm. Seeing as the Outer Sect Grand Competition was just three months away, and given Chen Fan¡¯s circumstances, getting expelled from the Spring Autumn Sect was all but a foregone conclusion.

    Concerned about Chen Fan''s state of mind, Qin Changkong had nned to visit him at his residence today and offer words of encouragement. Unexpectedly, they ran into each other here. However, to his surprise, Chen Fan appeared anything but downcast. There was a noticeable absence of despondency in his demeanor.

    Chen Fan looked at the small cloth pouch Qin Changkong held, and his nose turned slightly sour. Qin Changkong treated him the best, aside from his father, and didn¡¯t ignore Chen Fan¡¯s father''s wishes when Chen Fan failed to advance.

    Although Qin Changkong was an outer sect elder, the cultivation resources he received every month were also minimal. Those whose cultivation was in the Yuanfu realm, like Qin Changkong, required huge amounts of cultivation resources if they wanted to make the slightest breakthrough. Still, Qin Changkong had offered the primeval stones he¡¯d saved up to Chen Fan, moving him deeply.

    ¡°Uncle Qin, your cultivation...¡±

    ¡°Take it.¡±

    Qin Changkong smiled freely and pushed the small cloth pouch into Chen Fan¡¯s bosom. ¡°My cultivation is already in the Yuanfu realm. A few pieces of primeval stones won¡¯t be beneficial to me. They will be a lot more useful to you.¡±

    Chen Fan held onto the small cloth pouch tightly, raising his head with a firm gaze, and said, ¡°Uncle Qin, I will definitely not let you down.¡±

    He secretly decided to give Qin Changkong a surprise at the Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    ¡°Uncle Qin believes you, silly boy,¡± Qin Changkong patted Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder and said a few more words of concern before leaving.

    Chen Fan took the twelve primeval stones given to him by Qin Changkong and returned to his residence. However, the ce seemed like a war zone, as if someone had ransacked the ce. His nkets were on the ground, and his closet had been overturned.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes turned cold. Someone had barged into his ce while he was out.

    ¡°Damn it. It must have been that scumbag, Liao Feng!¡± Chen Fan gritted his teeth.

    After that lightning bolt had struck Chen Fan, he had faintly heard Liao Feng say he woulde here to search for the primeval stones Chen Fan had saved up over the past three years. Liao Feng must have overturned the whole ce into this state to look for the primeval stones.

    ¡°Don¡¯t let me run into you, Liao Feng, or you¡¯ll know what¡¯sing for you!¡±

    Chen Fan growled and immediately left his room. He came to a corner of his courtyard wall and swiped away the dirt there with his hands. From there, he retrieved a wooden box buried underneath.

    He had umted some primeval stones but didn¡¯t keep them in his room. Instead, they were stored in a wooden box and buried in this inconspicuous corner of his courtyard.

    If Liao Feng had really swiped away the primeval stones he had painstakingly saved up, Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t have had anyone to cry to.

    The wooden box was filled with primeval stones. These approximately seventy stones were his entire wealth.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t find the primeval stones even after overturning the whole ce. It turns out this trash has hidden them under the corner of his courtyard wall!¡±

    Suddenly, a voice filled with ridicule rang out from behind.

 Chapter 8 - Killing Liao Feng

    <h4>Chapter 8 - Killing Liao Feng</h4>

    Chen Fan turned around and saw Liao Feng and that gray-clothed teenager leaning against the wall, arms crossed and looking at him with derision.

    ¡°It was you two, as I thought!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes turned cold.

    Liao Fengughed arrogantly, ¡°So what? Man, I really didn¡¯t expect trash like you to have enough brain to hide it well. You made us search for nothing!¡±

    A few days ago, they hade to Chen Fan¡¯s ce after he had fainted from the lightning strike and rummaged through it. However, they failed to even find the shadow of a primeval stone, leaving Liao Feng feeling disgruntled.

    He was certain that Chen Fan had saved up many primeval stones over thest three years. After all, Chen Fan''sck of martial arts talent meant he did not need such arge quantity of primeval stones.

    Driven by his desire to use the primeval stones for his cultivation breakthrough and perform better in the Outer Sect Grand Competition, Liao Feng felt increasingly disgruntled by his failure to find any.

    He had been searching for Chen Fan''s whereabouts for the past few days, but it seemed as though Chen Fan had vanished, not returning to his ce for days.

    Liao Feng had followed him home when he had spotted Chen Fan conversing with Qin Changkong in the za, and now, he had caught Chen Fan red-handed, hiding his primeval stones under the corner of his courtyard wall.

    Liao Feng¡¯s eyes burned with greed seeing the wooden box in Chen Fan¡¯s hands. With this, he could break through to the fourth level of the Qigong realm swiftly, perhaps even to the fifth level.

    "I can''t believe you''re breaking the sect''s rules like this," Chen Fan said, ring at Liao Feng. "No one is allowed to enter someone else''s residence without permission.¡±

    ¡°What a joke. Martial trash like you should have been expelled from the sect long ago. So what if I broke into your ce? Will the sect punish me because of trash like you?¡± Liao Feng snorted, openly defying the sect''s rules without any regard for consequences.

    Liao Feng told the gray-clothed teenager, ¡°Go get that wooden box of his. How is trash like him worthy of using primeval stones? Giving them to him is simply a waste!¡±

    The gray-clothed teenager nodded and walked toward Chen Fan with a cold smile.

    ¡°Hand it over. Trash like you isn¡¯t qualified to own primeval stones. Brother Feng will help you put these primeval stones to good use.¡±

    The gray-d teenager sneered at Chen Fan, his arm extending toward the wooden box in Chen Fan''s hand as if it were his own property.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    The gray-clothed teenager furrowed his brow because Chen Fan had grabbed his wrist.

    He looked up, stared at Chen Fan with disdain, andughed coldly. ¡°What, you want to fight back, you trash?¡±

    <i>Snap!</i>

    Chen Fan''s expression was as cold as ice, but he said nothing. Instead, he squeezed the hand that the gray-clothed teenager had extended towards the wooden box, his grip tightening until he heard bones snapping.

    ¡°Ah...!¡±

    The gray-clothed teenager let out a miserable scream. His forehead immediately broke out in cold sweat from the intense pain.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan followed up with a kick to the gray-clothed teenager¡¯s chest. The ferocious strength of the kick broke a few of the teenager¡¯s ribs and sent him flying back. He crashed before Liao Feng¡¯s feet, vomiting blood and howling in pain.

    ¡°Trying to snatch my primeval stones? You might take them, but I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be able to use them!¡± Chen Fan said. His gaze was cold, and an icy aura emanated from him.

    Chen Fan was no longer that trash from before!

    In the past, resisting Liao Feng''s gang would have been futile. Not only would Chen Fan''s primeval stones have been taken, but he would have also suffered a brutal beating for his defiance.

    However, things are different now.

    His cold gaze fell onto Liao Feng, and a cold light shone in his eyes.

    He had wanted to test his strength on someone. Since Liao Feng hade to him of his own volition, he would y along and use him as a punching bag.

    Liao Feng was stunned. He looked at the gray-clothed teenager crawling on the ground, still having difficulty believing what had happened.

    The gray-clothed teenager¡¯s cultivation was a peak second-level Qigong martial artist, just a step away from breaking through to the third level. Logically speaking, taking the wooden box from Chen Fan should have been effortless. Yet, Chen Fan had snapped his wrist, sending him tumbling to the ground.

    Liao Feng quickly came back to his senses. Looking at Chen Fan wide-eyed, he eximed, ¡°Trash, you¡¯ve broken through to the Qi Gathering realm?!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Chen Fan answered indifferently.

    Liao Feng¡¯s pupils shrunk slightly; the very next moment, heughed coldly. ¡°So what if you¡¯ve broken through to the Qi Gathering realm? Trash will remain trash. Three years to reach Qi Gathering, and you¡¯re only at the first level.¡± ¡°While I¡±¡ªLiao Feng¡¯s qi erupted with a boom, forming a fierce gale and rushing out, sweeping up the rocks and dirt on the ground¡ª¡°am at the third level!¡±

    ¡°So what?¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    Liao Feng had thought Chen Fan would look terrified. However, he only looked at Liao Feng calmly and spat out those words tly. He felt like he was punching cotton; it left him irritated.

    ¡°Looks like you think you can act haughty before me after advancing to the first level, eh?¡± Liao Feng said icily, his eyes shining with cruelty. He decided to teach Chen Fan that a piece of trash forever remained a piece of trash, something he could trample with his feet whenever.

    ¡°Take revenge for me, Brother Feng!¡± said the gray-clothed teenager with difficulty, his eyes filled with resentment.

    Liao Feng nced at him and said, ¡°You useless thing, I have to take action personally because of you!¡±

    Liao Feng walked toward Chen Fan step by step with his aura pressed down on Chen Fan. He wanted to see him on the ground, begging for mercy under the pressure of his aura.

    Regrettably, that did not happen. Chen Fan stood in ce like the sun and just stared at Liao Feng coldly.

    Liao Feng''s heart grew colder. His eyes gleamed with an eerie light, and he quickened his pace. He quickly closed the distance between them, stopping three meters away from Chen Fan. The primeval energy within him surged forth, and he bellowed, "Wild Ox Fist!"

    He enveloped his right arm in primeval qi and punched his opponent violently.

    The air reverberated like a wild ox had let out a deafening roar. A massive shadowy fist hurtled toward Chen Fan, its presence suffocating.

    Wild Ox Fist was a lower-dirt tier martial skill practiced by many from the outer sect. It was trendy among the outer sect disciples due to its simplicity and power.

    Liao Feng¡¯s cultivation was at the middle stage of the third level of the Qigong realm, giving him 3,200 jin of strength. The Wild Ox Fist had an additional 100 jin of power, totaling 3,300 jin of raw power.

    Before even the fist¡¯s shadow had reached him, the forceful gusts created by Liao Feng''s strike swept up Chen Fan''s long hair, causing it and his clothes to billow wildly.

    A fierce glint shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. His primeval qi surged in his meridians like the ocean tide and appeared in his right hand. With a swift motion, he extended his right hand,unching a golden palm forward.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The Vajra Seal collided with Liao Feng''s fist shadow, obliterating it without hesitation. Unimpeded, the seal continued its trajectory, crashing into Liao Feng''s chest with incredible force.

    The sound of bones cracking echoed through the air as Liao Feng''s chest caved inward. No one knew how many of his ribs were broken. He let out a miserable scream and fell to the ground, spewing blood.

    ¡°You¡¯re not at the first level! At thete stage of the second level! Still, you shouldn¡¯t be able to hurt me, impossible! How are you so strong!?¡± Liao Feng shrieked, looking up at Chen Fan with difficulty as he held his hurting chest.

    Only now did he realize that Chen Fan wasn¡¯t at the first level like he had thought. He was ate-stage, second-level Qigong martial artist capable of overwhelming even him.

    It was no wonder Chen Fan had easily broken that gray-clothed teenager¡¯s wrist. Until now, Liao Feng had thought that he had simply caught the teen in gray off guard.

    Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°I never once said I am at the first level.¡±

    ¡°You... damn you, you dare plot against us!¡± Liao Feng said. Hisplexion was ghastly, and his eyes full of indignity. If he had known Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was at thete stage of the second level, he would never have acted carelessly and underestimated him.

    ¡°Plot against you? You sure know how to joke,¡± ridiculed Chen Fan, surprised by Liao Feng¡¯s words.

    Chen Fan approached Liao Feng, making thetter¡¯splexion change further. He tried to shift backward with difficulty and said with a trembling voice, ¡°Wh-what are you trying to do?¡±

    ¡°What am I doing?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly and said, ¡°ording to the sect rules, residence owners are allowed to kill anyone who trespasses on their property directly!¡±

    Liao Feng shook violently, a look of horror showing on his face.

    Chen Fan was right. Since this was indeed one of the sect''s rules, they wouldn¡¯t punish him even if he killed them both.

    ¡°You... you dare to kill me?¡±

    Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°Let¡¯s see if I dare to.¡±

    ¡°You... you can¡¯t kill me! Do you know who my older brother is? He¡¯s Liao Fan! A fifth-level Qigong expert of the outer sect and a member of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance! My older brother will definitely not let you go. He will hunt you down if you kill me!¡±

    Liao Feng hurriedly brought up his older brother, hoping it would keep Chen Fan in check.

    And it seemed to have worked, as Chen Fan suddenly stopped. This gave Liao Feng a glimpse of hope, and he immediately mored, ¡°Chen Fan, help me up quickly!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m really awed by your bravery.¡± Chen Fanughed coldly when he heard Liao Feng ordering him and began approaching him again.

    Liao Feng¡¯splexion changed. Again, he struggled in retreat and said in horror, ¡°Wh-what are you doing? I¡¯m telling you, don¡¯t mess around. My older brother is Liao Fan. If you kill me, my older brother will find you for revenge. You¡¯re definitely not a match for my older brother. If you let me go, I¡¯ll stay away and never cross paths with you in the future.¡±

    ¡°Do you think I¡¯ll believe you?¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    If he let Liao Feng go, he would most likely bring his older brother to seek revenge. They might even seed in killing Chen Fan, so there was no way he would let someone like him go.

    A Vajra Seal materialized in the air and smashed into Liao Feng¡¯s chest once more, directly bursting his chest open.

    Liao Feng stared at Chen Fan wide-eyed. He didn¡¯t die in peace. He hadn¡¯t expected that Chen Fan would really kill him.

    The gray-clothed teenager was stunned, and he was shaking in fear. He hurriedly crawled up to his feet and ran toward the entrance. ¡°Murder! Chen Fan killed someone...¡±

    However, before he could run to the entrance, Chen Fan sent out another palm, sending that gray-clothed teenager to the afterlife.

    A cold glint shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he looked at the two copses.

    ording to the sect¡¯s rules, the residence owners could kill trespassers, but they had to report the entire matter to the sect. Otherwise, the sect would treat this as a case of murdering one¡¯s fellow disciples.

    As such, this matter could not be kept a secret, so Liao Feng¡¯s older brother would naturally find out about it.

    ¡°Liao Fan...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed as he muttered to himself.

    A fifth-level Qigong martial artist could defeat the current Chen Fan. He could barely keep himself alive if he broke into the fourth level. Otherwise, he would die without a doubt facing Liao Fan¡¯s pursuit.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t regret his actions, as he already had ns for what had to be done next.

 Chapter 9 - Rise of a Stormy Situation

    <h4>Chapter 9 - Rise of a Stormy Situation</h4>

    The Qingyang Mountain Range was massive, its lush forests teeming with life and full of demon beasts. This ce was both a haven and a nightmare for martial artists.

    After Chen Fan had reported the matter of killing Liao Feng and the gray-clothed teenager to the sect, he immediately set off and came to the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    This was the n he had in mind when he killed Liao Feng. He woulde to the Qingyang Mountain Range to train and only return to the sect after his cultivation had increased. Then, he wouldn¡¯t need to be afraid of Liao Fan.

    Moreover, even if Liao Fan learned of his journey to the Qingyang Mountain Range, he couldn¡¯t search the entire massive mountain. Trying to find someone here was no different from trying to find a needle in a haystack. This gave Chen Fan the much-needed time to focus on advancing his cultivation.

    Deep within the dense forest nestled in a valley, a figure sat in the lotus position atop a massive stone.

    Above the figure''s head loomed a colossal vortex resembling a funnel, drawing in copious amounts of heaven and earth primeval qi.

    This figure was holding a crystal. The wisps of milky white dense qi within the crystal streamed out, and the figure absorbed them.

    This figure was none other than Chen Fan.

    His aura seemed to surge and recede like the tide as he fervently attempted to break through to the third level of Qigong.

    The heaven and earth primeval qi within a radius of several miles gathered at his location and was plundered by the tyrannical Heaven Seizing Art. Additionally, with primeval stones supporting his cultivation, the primeval qi within Chen Fan''s meridians surged like a mighty river, swiftly circting.

    The amount of primeval qi within his dantian kept increasing.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan suddenly shook. The previously fluctuating aura erupted, giving rise to a powerful gust of wind that swept through the surroundings, picking up gravel and sand in its wake.

    Chen Fan slowly opened his eyes, which were shining with joy.

    He¡¯d broken through to the third level of the Qigong realm!

    Now, the primeval qi in his dantian was vigorous, ten times what he had as a second-level Qigong martial artist.

    ¡°This is still not enough. Liao Fan¡¯s cultivation is at the fifth level, and he can be considered an expert within the whole outer sect. Even though I¡¯d broken through to the third level, I would die if I were to face him.¡±

    Chen Fan knew the crisis wasn¡¯t over just because he had advanced a bit.

    ¡°Luckily, I still have more than two months. That¡¯s enough for me to raise my cultivation level.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone. He had brought all his primeval stones and practiced a domineering cultivation technique like the Heaven Seizing Art. With more than two months to spare, he could raise his cultivation to the fifth level of Qigong.

    ¡°Cultivators shouldn¡¯t focus on closed-door cultivation alone. It isn¡¯t the proper path. With the numerous demon beasts on Qingyang Mountain Range, I can hunt them to gain experience with realbat and refine my primeval qi to make it denser. I can also practice my martial skills. The power of Vajra Seal at minor mastery is not enough, and there is also the Myriad Elephants Divine Art...¡±

    Chen Fan thought he¡¯d made the perfect choice. This ce was a paradise to him, offering ample opportunities to enhance his cultivation.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go and try hunting some demon beasts!¡± Chen Fan looked around, and he immediately headed out of the valley.

    Meanwhile, in a small loft inside the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s outer sect:

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A youth mmed his palm onto a table beside him, turning it into smithereens.

    The man was emitting a cold, murderous aura, his expression icy. He was none other than Liao Feng¡¯s older brother, Liao Fan.

    ¡°You wretched little bastard, how dare you kill my little brother! I definitely won¡¯t let you go. I¡¯ll shred you to pieces. You will die only after you have suffered the cruelest tortures at my hands!¡±

    Liao Fan''s eyes gleamed with a chilling, icy light, his intense desire for vengeance almost tangible. As a result, the room temperature plummeted abruptly, reminiscent of a wintry day nketed in snow.

    Having been absent from the sect for a few days, Liao Fan had just returned, only to receive the news of his younger brother, Liao Feng, being in. Instantly, an overwhelming fury consumed him.

    Liao Feng had died because he had trespassed into someone¡¯s residence, but that mattered not to Liao Fan, as he was his younger brother.

    Moreover, he had merely trespassed into the residence belonging to the trash of the outer sect.

    ¡°Brother Fan.¡±

    A youth walked in. Sensing the cold, suffocating atmosphere in the room and the terrifying murderous intenting from Liao Fan, he shook, and even his voice trembled.

    ¡°Speak,¡± Liao Fan said coldly.

    The youth replied, ¡°ording to what we¡¯ve gathered, Chen Fan has left sect grounds. Based on the direction he went in, we think that he¡¯d gone to the Qingyang Mountain Range.¡±

    ¡°Qingyang Mountain Range...¡±

    Liao Fan¡¯s eyes flickered with cold intent. ¡°This little bastard is pretty smart. He must have known that upon discovering his heinous act of murdering my brother, I would undoubtedly seek revenge. But did he think he could escape my pursuit just because he went into hiding? Wishful thinking!¡±

    The youth said apprehensively, ¡°Brother Fan, that kid has always been a martial trash. Somehow, he achieved a breakthrough and reached the Qi Gathering realm, resulting in the tragic demise of your younger brother. But even if his dantian opened up, his cultivation level wouldn¡¯t be higher than the fourth level. Powerful demon beasts are everywhere in the Qingyang Mountain Range, so he will be confined to the outskirts with his strength.¡±

    Liao Fan''s eyes gleamed with a cold, determined light. ¡°You¡¯re right. Even though that little bastard entered the Qingyang Mountain Range, his movements will be limited to its outer regions. This significantly narrows down his potential whereabouts. Send the word out. Have those heading out to train in the Qingyang Mountain Range search for that little bastard. Anyone who finds him will be rewarded heavily!¡±

    Liao Fan firmly believed that with a vast number of people and the allure of substantial rewards, he would undoubtedly be able to locate Chen Fan.

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    The youth nodded, a simr cold glint shining in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll get it done right away.¡±

    Meanwhile, at another loft in the Spring Autumn Sect, Qin Changkong was pacing back and forth in his room, anxious.

    ¡°Why did Xiaofan rashly kill Liao Feng?¡± Qin Changkong muttered to himself, his eyes filled with worry.[1]

    Although Liao Feng was at fault for getting himself killed, his older brother couldn¡¯t be treated lightly. Even if one ignored his fifth-level cultivation, one couldn¡¯t overlook his connection with the Heaven¡¯s Alliance.

    Even the Outer Sect Master had to show some respect to this organization.

    The founder of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance was currently a core disciple of the sect. His standing and strength far surpassed an outer sect elder like Qin Changkong.

    ¡°Ah, what do I do?¡± Qin Changkong was anxious, feeling like an ant on a hot pan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s father and Qin Changkong were disciple brothers and were extremely close.

    The former had entrusted Chen Fan to him. If anything were to happen to Chen Fan, it would be difficult for him to exin things to Chen Fan¡¯s father.

    A tall girl with beautiful looks entered the room and called out to Qin Changkong, ¡°Father.¡±

    ¡°How is it? Any news?¡± Qin Changkong hurriedly asked, looking at his daughter.

    Qin Yao shook her head and said, ¡°I heard he¡¯s gone to the Qingyang Mountain Range. However, I also learned that Liao Fan has instructed those heading there for training to keep an eye out for Chen Fan while they are at it."

    ¡°Ah, what should I do? Given Xiaofan¡¯s abilities, he will likely remain on the outskirts. They would easily discover his tracks. He would be a lot of trouble then!¡± Qin Changkong was cast down.

    ¡°Father, why don¡¯t I go to the Qingyang Mountain Range and see if I can find him before the others?¡± Qin Yao suggested.

    Qin Changkong¡¯s eyes lit up and hurriedly agreed, ¡°Alright, Yao¡¯er. Go immediately. You must find Xiaofan before the others. You mustn¡¯t let anything happen to him.¡±[2]

    1. Xiao is a term of endearment in Chinese. ?

    2. ¡®er is also a term of endearment in Chinese ?

 Chapter 10 - Violent Ape

    <h4>Chapter 10 - Violent Ape</h4>

    Inside the forest, the wind roared with a haunting howl while a radiant golden light illuminated the surroundings.

    Chen Fan was currently battling a demon wolf.

    A Chill Wind Wolf was a tier-one, fourth-level demon beast. It was fast and had sharp fangs that could easily bite through steel tes. Its long-range attack involved spitting razor-edged wind des, making it a formidable enemy.

    Chen Fan had spent thest month roaming the forest in the mountain outskirts, searching for traces of demon beasts and hunting them.

    Not only did Chen Fan gain strength through hisbat experiences, but his cultivation also soared to the pinnacle of the third level. Additionally, his Vajra Seal was now at major mastery, and his Myriad Elephants Divine Art at the secondyer.

    The Chill Wind Wolf, about the size of a calf, ran around Chen Fan, searching for an opportunity to deal a fatal attack.

    The Chill Wind Wolf opened its jaws, unleashing a half-moon-shaped wind de that exuded a bone-chilling aura. The de soared through the air, tracing an arc as it hurtled toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan struck out with his palm. The millstone-sized seal shattered the wind de into fragments. Not losing all its strength, the attack continued pushing forth.

    Sadly, the agile Chill Wind Wolf effortlessly evaded the attack. The Vajra Seal smashed into a tree as thick as a bowl, snapping it in half and sending wooden debris scattering across the ground.

    Now at major mastery, the Vajra Seal contained 4,500 jin of force, enough to kill the Chill Wind Wolf. However, the demon beast''s incredible speed allowed it to swiftly evade the attack, moving like a gust of wind.

    Chen Fan looked at the Chill Wind Wolf circling him, troubled by the situation.

    This wasn¡¯t his first time encountering a tier-one, fourth-level demon beast, but this one was particrly crafty and also the most difficult to deal with.

    The Chill Wind Wolf avoided close-quartersbat, instead maintaining its distance and continuouslyunching wind des at Chen Fan from afar.

    Although Chen Fan could easily blow the wind des into bits, Vajra Seal consumed quite a bit of primeval qi. If the Chill Wind Wolf wore him down like this, he would be in grave danger once his primeval qi was depleted.

    Through his battle with the Chill Wind Wolf, Chen Fan recognized his greatest weakness: Speed.

    Had Chen Fan been fast enough, he would have quickly closed the distance between them and engaged in close-quartersbat. The wolf wouldn¡¯t have been a threat then.

    ¡°Looks like I have to cultivate a martial skill focused on movement when I return to the sect. I''ll be at a significant disadvantage when facing fast opponents otherwise,¡± Chen Fan thought.

    The matter regarding movement martial skill had to be put on hold for now, though, as the wolf before him took priority.

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind worked lightning fast and immediately came up with an idea.

    Chen Fan maintained his standoff with the Chill Wind Wolf but intensified the frequency of his Vajra Seal attacks. He kept shouting furiously, making it seem like he had lost his patience.

    Observing Chen Fan''s behavior, a cunning, human-like glimmer flickered in the Chill Wind Wolf''s eyes.

    Although they were demon beasts, they were intelligent. Take the Chill Wind Wolf, for example. Its intellect wasparable to a seven or eight-year-old child.

    Seeing Chen Fan losing his patience, the Chill Wind Wolf didn¡¯t try confronting him head-on but continued circling him patiently.

    It was trying its best to exhaust Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi. Once his dantian waspletely drained, it would seize the opportunity to deliver a fatal blow.

    Soon, Chen Fan was panting and sweating heavily. He had also be slower.

    The Chill Wind Wolf circled to Chen Fan''s back and spat a wind de whizzing toward him.

    Chen Fan quickly turned around and sent out a Vajra Seal. It dealt with the wind de, but the force of the attack caused him to stumble back as well.

    A glint shed in the Chill Wind Wolf''s eyes.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!</i>

    The Chill Wind Wolf suddenly sped up, its form resembling wind, turning into a blur. In a split second, it leaped and lunged at Chen Fan''s head, attempting to bite him.

    The Chill Wind Wolfnded ten feet away from Chen Fan. It widened its mouth, its long, sharp fangs reflecting a ghostly light, sending chills down his spine.

    If the wolf had managed to sink its teeth into Chen Fan, his head would have burst like a watermelon.

    However, Chen Fan''s quick reflexes saved him. He had swiftly crouched, and the wolf, therefore, missed him. Simultaneously, he had thrust his palm upward toward the wolf''s abdomen, delivering a brilliant but deadly palm strike.

    ¡°Aooo!¡±

    The Chill Wind Wolf had realized it had fallen for a trap when it missed. This human had pretended to be exhausted to lure it in, so it immediately spat out a wind de downward.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s Vajra Seal had easily torn apart the wind de and continued sting toward the Chill Wind Wolf¡¯s abdomen.

    At such a close distance, the Chill Wind Wolf had no way of dodging.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Finally, Chen Fan had struck the Chill Wind Wolf with a Vajra Seal, not to mention it was on its abdomen, where its defense was the weakest.

    Immediately, the Chill Wind Wolf was sent flying and crashed into a big tree, breaking it and smashing to the ground, twitching a few times before dying. Its organs had likely turned into mush.

    ¡°Phew...¡±

    Chen Fan exhaled a long breath of relief. He¡¯d finally gotten rid of the Chill Wind Wolf.

    Luckily, his acting skills were passable, and he managed to trick the Chill Wind Wolf. Otherwise, he would have faced death, exhausted by the relentless pursuit.

    Walking over, Chen Fan harvested the valuable parts of the Chill Wind Wolf before leaving. Feeling satisfied, he searched for the next demon beast.

    Five dayster, following a faint but pleasant scent, Chen Fan arrived at a cave entrance. He could sense that a demon beast lived within, and its level was above the Chill Wind Wolf.

    However, what surprised him was the faint scent wafting from the cave asionally, clearing his mind and energizing him.

    ¡°Some kind of treasure must be present in this demon beast cave. Perhaps it¡¯s an extremely precious spiritual herb!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone. He whistled loudly, causing amotion in hopes of drawing out the demon beast in the cave.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump...</i>

    As expected, the ground soon began to tremble, sending out rumbling noises. Chen Fan¡¯s heart jumped. Could the demon beast in this cave be a big one?!

    Soon, a fierce wave of air gushed out from the cave, ratting the trees nearby. The fierce wind struck Chen Fan¡¯s face, and his pupils shrank.

    He saw a ck silhouette over three meters tall charging out, carrying a violent aura. The demon beast¡¯s entire massive figure was reflected in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°This is a fifth-level demon beast... Violent Ape!¡±

    Chen Fan was stunned. He really didn¡¯t expect such a huge demon beast to live in this cave.

    Violent Ape, a tier-one, fifth-level demon beast, was quite fierce, as the name suggested. When they went berserk, even some sixth-level demon beasts would choose to avoid them.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    When the Violent Ape came charging out and saw Chen Fan, it started pounding its chest with its fists.

    The pair of scarlet red pupils stared at Chen Fan, making him feel flustered; suddenly, a sh of inspiration shone in his mind.

    His Myriad Elephants Divine Art was already at the secondyer of Strength Refining, and he had been having difficulty advancing it to the thirdyer. Seeing that huge Violent Ape in front of him, Chen Fan thought of a method to achieve a breakthrough.

    However, as soon as he devised this n, even Chen Fan himself couldn¡¯t help but tremble at the idea.

    ¡°Screw it!¡±

    Chen Fan gritted his teeth, and his eyes hardened as he charged toward the Violent Ape, screaming.

 Chapter 11 - Consecutive Breakthroughs

    <h4>Chapter 11 - Consecutive Breakthroughs</h4>

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan rushing toward it, The Violent Ape fiercely pounded its chest twice before advancing with ground-shaking steps.

    Chen Fan felt his bones and muscles shaking due to the ape¡¯s powerful steps. He intended to utilize the Violent Ape''s attacks to strengthen his physique further and advance to the Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡¯s thirdyer.

    As Chen Fan rushed toward the Violent Ape, he swiftly unleashed the Vajra Seal.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    However, the Violent Ape easily crushed the Vajra Seal with a smack, shattering it like it was made of tofu.

    Simultaneously, the Violent Ape continued to strike Chen Fan with its palms. Taking a deep breath, Chen Fan chose not to resist, allowing the ape''s strikes tond on him.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    With a dull thud, Chen Fan was forcefully propelled seven to eight meters away, crashing onto the ground.

    The Violent Ape pounded its chestcently, grunting as if to mock Chen Fan for being weak and still trying to steal the spiritual herb it was guarding.

    Chen Fan hurriedly climbed to his feet, feeling his organs shaking and his blood surging. However, a glimmer of joy flickered in his eyes.

    ¡°It¡¯s working!¡±

    If the Violent Ape¡¯s palm had struck him directly, Chen Fan wouldn''t have survived. Thus, he had used a Vajra Seal to weaken the Violent Ape¡¯s attack before receiving the blow without resisting, tempering his physique in the process.

    Violent Apes were known for their savage nature and boundless strength. A casual smack from it would have more than 5000 jin of power, so a direct hit would break Chen Fan¡¯s bones.

    ¡°Again!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted, fueled by the taste of the benefits he had experienced.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    A peculiar scene unfolded in front of the cave. The Violent Ape repeatedly sent the human flying like a rubber ball, while the human, seemingly driven to madness, kept returning to face the ape despite spewing blood from the forceful blows.

    Although Chen Fan had cultivated to the secondyer, making his physical defense extremely tough, his skin still cracked under the Violent Ape¡¯s continuous blows, leaving him bloodied.

    Nevertheless, through this grueling self-torture training, the cells within his flesh, tendons, and blood became extraordinarily active. He grew stronger as his physique underwent rapid breaking and reconstruction while using primeval qi as nourishment.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan was sent flying again like a bup sack and stood up with difficulty.

    He was nowpletely drenched in fresh blood, but his gaze burned with an unusual brightness. He defiantly shouted at the Violent Ape, "Just you wait, big guy!"

    Chen Fan ran into the dense forest with staggered steps.

    The Violent Ape didn¡¯t give chase. It looked at Chen Fan¡¯s escaping figure, pounding its chest crazily and roaring as if dering victory.

    Chen Fan repeatedly provoked the Violent Ape for the next three days by running to its cave, only to be mercilessly beaten and left battered and bruised.

    However, today...

    Chen Fan sat next to a valley stream.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan shook. Light burst out from him and enveloped him.

    The light soon dissipated, and Chen Fan slowly opened his eyes.

    ¡°I¡¯ve broken through. The thirdyer of Strength Refining!¡±

    A sh of joy shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The three days of beating had helped him grow stronger rapidly. Today, his efforts were finally rewarded, breaking through to the thirdyer of Strength Refining. His strength increased by close to 800 jin, and his toughness also improved greatly.

    ¡°With my current strength, it wouldn¡¯t be easy for experts at the fifth level of the Qigong realm to kill me, even if I¡¯m far from a match for them!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone with confidence. Breaking through to the thirdyer of Strength Refining had made him much stronger and greatly improved his defenses.

    ¡°But this is still not enough. If I were to fight Liao Fan, I would still die. I need more power.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned sharp again.

    His eyelids had been twitching the past few days, seemingly to tell him that something bad was on the horizon. Therefore, he didn¡¯t dare to let his guard down.

    He was well aware this bad premonition was most likely due to Liao Fan searching high and low for him, desperate for revenge.

    ¡°My qi cultivation is already at the peak of the Qigong realm''s third level. I am one step away from the fourth level. Training with the Violent Ape these few days has consolidated my foundation, and I¡¯m now ready for a breakthrough.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone, and he immediately closed his eyes. He took out a primeval stone and revolved the Heaven Seizing Art, trying to advance to the fourth level of the Qigong realm.

    Chen Fan had been experiencing severe eyelid twitches recently, making him uneasy.

    Although he had escaped to Qingyang Mountain Range immediately after killing Liao Feng, this wasn¡¯t a n without ws.

    Only with great strength could he rest easy.

    His apprehensions were soon proven right.

    Liao Fan''s promise of a reward spread like wildfire, attracting countless outer sect disciples who eagerly ventured into the Qingyang Mountain Range in search of Chen Fan.

    The rewards Liao Fan had put up were too great: fifty primeval stones, enough to drive the disciples preparing for the Outer Sect Grand Competition into a frenzy and potentially help them achieve breakthroughs in their cultivation.

    For one and a half months, the entire Qingyang Mountain Range was engulfed in a storm of activity as everyone scoured the area.

    A teenager carrying arge bow appeared not far away from this valley stream.

    ¡°Hm? That is...¡±

    This teenager immediately spotted Chen Fan sitting cross-legged next to the stream. His pupils shrunk, revealing a look of wild joy. ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°Great! Something this good actually happened to me! The fifty primeval stones are mine!¡± The teenager trembled with excitement seeing Chen Fan.

    ¡°Is he trying to break through? Doesn¡¯t that mean that he is in his most vulnerable state? But he¡¯s outside my shooting range. I¡¯ll close in carefully and shoot him in the back to heavily injure him. This should stop him from escaping, and then I will bring him back to the outer sect.¡±

    The teenager made up his mind, deciding to sneak attack Chen Fan.

    Suddenly!

    <i>Boom!</i>

    All of a sudden, Chen Fan¡¯s aura erupted. A terrifying gust of wind surged outward, causing his clothing to flutter vigorously despite the absence of any breeze. A powerful aura emanated from him, causing the teenager to stop in his tracks, his pupils shrinking.

    ¡°I¡¯ve broken through! Fourth level Qigong!¡±

    A dark streak shed in the teenager¡¯s eyes.

    He was about to sneak attack Chen Fan, but thetter had just broken through. He could no longer continue with his n, as he was merely a third-level Qigong martial artist, not to mention that Chen Fan was out of his range.

    ¡°Forget it. I¡¯d better hurry back to the sect to inform Senior Brother Liao Fan.¡± The teenager turned around carefully and hid in the dense forest.

    Chen Fan suddenly opened his eyes. He turned around to look as if he had sensed something, but there was nothing there, only a sea of trees and darkness.

    Shaking his head, Chen Fan retracted his gaze.

    ¡°Fourth level!¡±

    As Chen Fan stood up, his joints made popping sounds like someone was frying beans.

    Looking inside his dantian, he saw primeval qi surge like sea waves and rush into his meridians like the tide.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan rushed to a huge stone, about four meters tall, and attacked it with his palm. A golden light radiated from his palm, ruthlessly falling onto the stone.

    The huge stone shattered with a bang, and the tiny shards flew in all directions.

    ¡°After barely entering the fourth level of Qigong, a palm from me at full power is nearly 5,000 jin heavy. Now, I have the strength to protect myself when facing Liao Fan!¡±

    A look of joy appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s face.

 Chapter 12 - Stealing the Spiritual Herb

    <h4>Chapter 12 - Stealing the Spiritual Herb</h4>

    Chen Fan stood alone in the spacious clearing by the side of the valley stream, unleashing a relentless barrage of palm strikes.

    ¡°Vajra Seal is fierce and domineering, capable of shattering anything in its path. On the other hand, Chakravarti Seal possesses a unique blend of ferocity and softness. It can flow gently like calm seawater or surge forward with the force of crashing waves. Within its softness, there lies ferocity, and within its ferocity, there exists a subtle softness."

    Chen Fan mumbled to himself, throwing out palm after palm. The wind swished, and the air swept like waves, but he just couldn¡¯t nail the essence of the skill.

    Even so, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t impatient.

    As Chen Fan continued to unleash his palms, the primeval qi within his meridians surged like a powerful tide.

    After countless repetitions, a resounding smack echoed through the air, causing Chen Fan''s pupils to freeze momentarily.

    ¡°Rotations, cycle after cycle, like the primeval qi circting inside me. Round after round,yer afteryer, erupting instantly, it arrives at my palm, bringing out a great force.¡±[1]

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up, and he took a deep breath and slowly pushed out his palm.

    However, he moved his palm with deliberate slowness this time. Yet, he generated a strong wind that seemed to gather before him,yer uponyer.

    ¡°Right, this is it. Stackingyers until it quickly erupts,yer afteryer, resulting in a burst of power as fierce as a tsunami.¡±

    A faint smile appeared on the corner of Chen Fan''s lips. He¡¯d finally gained initialprehension of the Chakravarti Seal.

    A long while after, Chen Fan unleashed a powerful palm strike. With a thunderous crash resembling the crashing waves, a series of terrifying palm strikes surged forth.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The air boomed.

    Each palm strikended on the mountain, making rocks tumble and cracks spread. Finally, a deep palm print several inches in depth was left behind.

    ¡°I did it. Initialprehension of Chakravarti Seal.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up with happiness.

    That day, Chen Fan went to meet his old friend again: the Violent Ape.

    He had been coveting the spiritual herb inside the Violent Ape¡¯s cave for a long time.

    He was too weak to get his grubby paws on it before.

    He was much stronger now, so he wanted to check how big the strength gap between them was.

    If he could withstand a full-force attack from the Violent Ape, he decided to try to find an opportunity to steal the spiritual herb.

    Chen Fan stood outside the cave and made a sound, intending to lure out the Violent Ape. However, no noise came from inside the cave, even after he waited for a bit.

    ¡°Is it out hunting for food?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart stirred and began to thump violently. The Violent Ape wasn¡¯t in the cave¡ªthis was the perfect opportunity to steal the spiritual herb.

    Chen Fan put all his strength into his legs and darted into the cave.

    He had to make every second count, as he didn¡¯t know how much longer the ape would be outside. He had to take this opportunity to steal the spiritual herb.

    The air in the cave was very murky and humid. Surprisingly, the cave didn¡¯t reek of the smell typically associated with demon beasts. He quickly ran deeper in.

    The cave seemed endless and was on a steady decline. He ran for close to an incense stick¡¯s worth of time and finally arrived at the end of the cave. [2]

    There was a pond at the end of the cave.

    The pond had a radius of five feet and a depth of around three feet. Its water emitted a faint golden glow while white mist floated on the surface, sending an icy chill that prated Chen Fan''s bones.

    ¡°So cold!¡±

    His physique had grown stronger by leaps and bounds, but the chill from the pond still made him shiver.

    A green lotus flower floated above the pond, and within its petals flowed a chalcedony-like fluid, sparkling and translucent, emanating a clear fragrance that rxed one¡¯s heart and refreshed one¡¯s mind. Even his primeval qi seemed to cheer joyfully.

    ¡°This is a Jade Lotus Flower!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes when he saw the Jade Lotus Flower. A look of wild joy appeared on his face next.

    Jade Lotus Flowers were a type of precious treasure of heaven and earth. If a martial artist directly consumed them, their potent medical efficacy could directly raise the martial artist¡¯s cultivation by a small realm.

    Also, martial artists wouldn¡¯t experience any side effects from increasing their cultivation this way, as this was the same as bitterly cultivating and improving their strength.

    The most crucial point was that Jade Lotus Flowers could help consolidate a martial artist¡¯s foundation.

    If Chen Fan were to sell it outside, this Jade Lotus Flower could fetch him 200 primeval stones. The market had a demand for it, yet no supply was avable.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t hesitate and extended his hand, intending to scoop up the Jade Lotus Flower from the pond.

    A stinging pain assaulted him just as his palm dipped into the water. The faint golden pond water was likeva.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t retract his hand, as he could still bear the pain.

    He remained still for a minute; suddenly, his eyes shed with ecstasy.

    He had discovered that although the pond water caused him severe pain, it could also temper his physique.

    ¡°I can use this water to temper my body!¡±

    Body cultivation proved to be an immensely challenging endeavor. Without divine objects, individuals could only make progress gradually.

    Although Chen Fan didn¡¯t hate the notion of improving slowly and steadily, he naturally wouldn¡¯t reject methods that allowed him to improve without harming his foundation.

    Utilizing the Violent Ape to strengthen himself while enduring injuries proved effective, but the resulting harm inflicted upon him was equally severe.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be rich if I can bring back the pool and the Jade Lotus Flower with me,¡± Chen Fan thought. However, he understood this was unrealistic since he didn¡¯t have a vessel to contain the pond water.

    ¡°Forget it. I¡¯ll return to this pond to temper myself in the future when my cultivation has increased, and I can drive the Violent Ape away.¡±

    After making up his mind, Chen Fan wasted no more time. He scooped up his arm and retrieved the Jade Lotus Flower before turning around and making a mad dash for the entrance.

    The Violent Ape had guarded the Jade Lotus Flower for a long time and could sense a foreign presence. The moment Chen Fan took the flower, it was very likely the ape sensed it and was now rushing back.

    Chen Fan had to run out of the cave before it returned. If the Violent Ape blocked him inside the cave, he would lose his life.

    Although he¡¯d greatly improved, he still wasn¡¯t a match for a rampaging Violent Ape.

    As he drew closer to the cave entrance, Chen Fan sensed the ground shaking. He knew it wasn¡¯t his imagination¡ªthe Violent Ape was rushing back in a frenzy.

    Dashing madly, Chen Fan drove all his primeval qi to his legs, running like the wind.

    Finally, he rushed out of the cave entrance and saw the light. He quickly made his way into the dense forest.

    Suddenly, the Violent Ape burst in from another direction.

    The ape saw someone leaving its cave and immediately recognized him, as this human had left quite an impression in its mind.

    Sensing the Jade Lotus Flower¡¯s familiar fluctuations from Chen Fan¡¯s chest, the Violent Ape immediately went crazy.

    Its pupils instantly turned crimson, and it let out an earth-shaking roar filled with rage. Extending its arm, it pulled out a big tree from its roots and hurled it toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan felt the strong wind on his back, which alone was enough to hurt his skin and fill him with shock.

    After all, he had broken through to the thirdyer of Strength Refining.

    ¡°Damn it, a rampaging Violent Ape is actually so terrifying! It doesn¡¯t seem even a bit weaker than a sixth-level demon beast!¡±

    Chen Fan cursed inside.

    Demon beasts were stronger than martial artists of the same level in raw strength and toughness. The uprooted tree sweeping toward him probably had 6,000 jin of strength behind it, and if it struck him, he would end up with torn skin and mangled flesh.

    However, he couldn¡¯t hide even if he wanted to.

    With the Violent Ape grabbing big trees and throwing them, Chen Fan would be within range of being smashed by them no matter which way he dodged. His only choice was to run forward.

    s, he didn¡¯t practice any movement martial skills, so his speed was average.

    As he couldn¡¯t dodge any longer, Chen Fan steeled himself and hurriedly raised his defenses to the limit, ready to forcibly receive the attack.

    <i>Bam!</i>

    Chen Fan only saw his vision turn ck. He was struck viciously, and he let out a miserable cry. Fresh blood gushed from his mouth as he flew out like aet, crashing heavily onto the ground.

    1. ¡®ÂÖº£Ó¡¡¯ is the raw term for Chakravarti Seal. ¡®ÂÖ¡¯ has the literal meaning of wheel/rotate/turn/round/disk, and ¡®º£¡¯ means the sea. Also, all four seals are references to gods in Hinduism and Buddhism. ?

    2. Very ambiguous measure of time as it depends on how the incense is made, its length, and the environment where it''s lit. I checked around, but different sites give different answers, but it¡¯s usually between 30 mins to 1 hour, and one mentioned 15 mins. ?

 Chapter 13 â€“ Narrow Escape

    <h4>Chapter 13 ¨C Narrow Escape</h4>

    Chen Fan experienced excruciating pain as if his meridians and bones had been torn and shattered, and he had difficulty breathing. The agony was concentrated in his back, where each inch of his spine felt like it had snapped.

    Even though he had pushed the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to its limits, a strike from the rampaging Violent Ape carried a weight of 6,000 jin. He would have been reduced to meat paste if he had been struck by an iron club or a simr object instead of a tree.

    His vision turned dark, and he nearly fainted.

    The sheer terror of the Violent Ape''s power was undeniable. Once it went on a rampage, even ordinary sixth-level demon beasts would pale inparison.

    Chen Fan bit the tip of his tongue, forcing his woozy mind to clear up. He gritted his teeth tightly and swiftly rose from the ground. He dashed toward the protective cover of the dense forest, shielding only his head.

    His chances of survival would increase if he could enter the forest, as the dense trees would provide him a good cover.

    He was hurting all over like he would die, unable to muster any strength. However, Chen Fan powered through it all, running forward while vomiting blood.

    ¡°Roar...¡±

    When the ape saw that Chen Fan was alive and well enough to run again, it let out a ferocious roar.

    The Violent Ape, wielding a thick tree, spun and swung it with tremendous force, generating terrifying whooshing sounds that reverberated through the air. The resulting gales struck Chen Fan, making him stagger.

    ¡°This can¡¯t continue. Any more, and death would just catch me in its arms!¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes darted around as he tried to devise a n.

    His injuries were too severe. Even if he gritted his teeth and persisted, every step he took aggravated his wounds, forcing him to suck in mouthfuls of cold air from the pain. After every step like this, he would have to pause; the ape would catch up to him quickly.

    Should the Violent Apend another blow, his life would be in jeopardy.

    ¡°Right, the Jade Lotus Flower!¡±

    A sh of inspiration hit Chen Fan. He took out the Jade Lotus Flower hidden in his bosom as he ran and stuffed it into his mouth. He swallowed the palm-sized herb in a single gulp, akin to consuming a jujube without discerning any taste.

    Instantly, a refreshing sensation surged from Chen Fan''s abdomen, rapidly spreading throughout his limbs and bones. The pain from his injuries dissipated entirely.

    The sensation spread throughout his body, transforming into aforting current that enveloped his organs.

    ¡°Ah, this feels so good.¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but moan.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The Violent Ape, in hot pursuit, sensed the aura of the flower it had guarded so painstakingly disappearing. Realizing that Chen Fan, that detestable human, had eaten it, the ape became even angrier. Its hair bristled like steel needles.

    The ape quickly hurled the big tree in its hands violently at Chen Fan.

    Noticing the soundsing from behind, Chen Fan hurriedly returned to his senses. Turning around, he saw a colossal silhouette flying toward him, prompting him to hasten his pace out of fear.

    The Jade Lotus Flower quickly healed Chen Fan¡¯s injuries. The primeval qi in his dantian also became very active, rapidly circting and flowing to his legs, increasing his speed.

    The Violent Ape chased relentlessly, knocking down numerous trees with its massive frame.

    Chen Fan had entered the forest and made several turns, hoping to throw the Violent Ape off his tail. However, the beast effortlessly closed the distance with each stride, covering four to five meters. Oblivious to the obstacles in its path, the creature forcefully tore the trees, uprooting and hurling them aside to forge its path.

    As a result, no matter how many turns Chen Fan took, the Violent Ape had him locked in its sight, chasing him like a bloodhound.

    ¡°Big guy, can¡¯t you just forgive and forget? Isn¡¯t it just a Jade Lotus Flower? Once my cultivation is high enough, I¡¯ll venture deep into the mountain range and find you a better, more precious treasure! Don¡¯t be so petty!¡± Chen Fan shouted.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    In response, the Violent Ape roared; it was louder and infused with heightened anger.

    ¡°Ah... You and your one-track mind. How troublesome!¡±

    Chen Fan was dejected, as he could only do one thing now: Keep running while simultaneously channeling the power of the Heaven Seizing Art to fully activate the Jade Lotus Flower''s efficacy.

    One human and one ape engaged in a relentless pursuit, causing the entire forest to descend into chaos and creating resonating booming noises.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t know how long he had been running; after a while, he sensed themotion behind him diminishing. He turned his head to look back and found the ape slowing down and acting cautious.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan was a little puzzled.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a loud noise rang from his offside front.

    The trees started shaking before a powerful force crushed them.

    The forest resounded with tumultuous noises akin to the upheaval of the seas. A ck python with crimson eyes abruptly entered Chen Fan¡¯s sight.

    ¡°A Blood-pupiled ck Python!¡±

    Chen Fan jumped in fright, his heart nearly stopping.

    Blood-pupiled ck Pythons were authentic sixth-level demon beasts, about forty to fifty feet long and thick as a bucket. It was ck from head to tail and covered in palm-sized scales, their edges sharp as knives and shining with a metallic cold light.

    The python¡¯s eyes were blood-red, resembling two rednterns that emitted an icy, malevolent light. Its tail coiled and its upper body raised, the python flicked its tongue out, hissing menacingly.

    Should one be constricted by a Blood-pupiled ck Python, its horrifying strength could effortlessly crush them.

    The Blood-pupiled ck Python was drawn here by the loudmotion.

    Its nest was not far away from here. The stare from the python made Chen Fan feel like he had fallen into an ice cer.

    However, the Blood-pupiled ck Python ignored Chen Fan after ncing at him. Instead, its gaze shifted toward the Violent Ape, and the frequency of its tongue flickering increased.

    These two demon beasts were the overlords of the surrounding area.

    It was a ssic example of the old saying: A mountain couldn¡¯t house two tigers. Both demon beasts despised each other and desired to eliminate the other, yet they also feared each other. Neither could inflict harm upon the other.

    The Violent Ape chased Chen Fan so furiously because that stalk of Jade Lotus Flower could help it be a sixth-level demon beast, making him stronger than the python. And after devouring its nemesis, the ape would be a seventh-level demon beast.

    However, now that Chen Fan had stolen the Jade Lotus Flower, all that was no longer possible. So, how could it not be furious?

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The Violent Ape also stopped paying attention to Chen Fan and focused on the python¡ªits nemesis. The ape pounded its chest furiously with its fists, wanting to overwhelm the Blood-pupiled ck Python with its aura.

    Seeing this situation, Chen Fan felt a sense of relief wash over him.

    Taking advantage of the distraction, he cautiously retreated. As the Violent Ape and Blood-pupiled ck Python remained engrossed in their confrontation, paying no heed to his presence, Chen Fan broke into a frantic sprint, swiftly disappearing into the depths of the forest.

    To be safer, Chen Fan ran away very far before making an extensive turn, returning to the valley stream, where he decided to rest for a while.

    Chen Fan flopped on the ground, panting heavily. He was extremely exhausted.

    After all that running with a tense mind, he could finally rx. His mouth felt dry, so he hurriedly crawled to the stream, drinking the spring water like a man possessed.

 Chapter 14 - Improving by Leaps and Bounds

    <h4>Chapter 14 - Improving by Leaps and Bounds</h4>

    ¡°Ah... this feels good!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted out loud, lying face up by the stream. Looking at the blue sky, he revealed a bright smile.

    The ape had injured him heavily and almost killed him, but obtaining the Jade Lotus Flower made it all worth it.

    He only wanted one thing now: Sleep. Sadly, that wasn''t in the cards for him.

    He had directly consumed the Jade Lotus Flower earlier to escape. Although it healed his injuries, Chen Fan felt like a fire was burning in his abdomen right now.

    The Jade Lotus Flower¡¯s remaining medical efficacy was all gathered there, and he had to refine it as soon as possible.

    Pushing his fatigue aside, Chen Fan found an inconspicuous stone cave nearby and used a huge stone to block the entrance. He sat cross-legged inside and refined the Jade Lotus Flower¡¯s enormous power.

    He began cultivating the Heaven Seizing Art. Under Chen Fan¡¯s guidance, the bulk of the flower''s essence, burning like the hottest fire in his abdomen, traveled through his meridian,pleting one full cirction.

    The Jade Lotus Flower not only healed his external injuries but also his internal ones. His meridians became firmer, and his internal blood clots also cleared up.

    Half an hourter, Chen Fan spat out two big mouthfuls of ck-clotted blood.

    An injury from before had caused him some internal bleeding. Now that he had spat out those blood clots, his breathing became much smoother, like all his pores had opened up.

    At the same time, his primeval qi surged. As the Jade Lotus Flower¡¯s essence was refined and returned to his dantian, the primeval qi inside rushed outwards like the tide, strengthening Chen Fan¡¯s aura.

    His strength was originally at 4,500 jin; now, it increased due to him strengthening his aura.

    4,600 jin!

    4,700 jin!

    4,900 jin!

    5,000 jin!

    Soon, Chen Fan¡¯s strength climbed to 5,000 jin,parable to a newly advanced fifth-level Qigong martial artist.

    Still, his martial arts aura was only at the middle stage of the fourth level of the Qigong realm. However, the momentum of this surge in his aura hadn¡¯t weakened and only continued to grow stronger.

    5,100 jin!

    5,200 jin!

    5,400 jin!

    It was only when Chen Fan¡¯s strength grew explosively to 5,500 jin that his aura gradually stabilized, finally stopping at the peak of the fourth level of the Qigong realm.

    The primeval qi in Chen Fan¡¯s dantian was now extremely robust,parable to a sixth-level Qigong martial artist.

    ¡°Fortune is indeed hidden within crises. I risked my life for the Jade Lotus Flower; as a reward, I advanced to the peak of the fourth realm. Mybat strength is nowparable to martial artists at the peak of the fifth level.¡±

    Chen Fan realized that he wouldn¡¯t have advanced so far had he not used a portion of the Jade Lotus Flower¡¯s essence to heal his injuries.

    Clenching his fist, he felt his power; it resembled an erupting volcano. A smile appeared at the corner of his lips, as he was much stronger than before now.

    If he went all out, he could exert a force of 6,000 jin, not to mention his incredible defense. Even if he were to confront the Violent Ape head-on right now, he wouldn¡¯t be at a disadvantage.

    ¡°Hmph, just wait till I consolidate my cultivation. We will settle the score then, big guy!¡± said Chen Fan, snorting. He was in a good mood and bursting with confidence due to his recent strength increase.

    Meanwhile, two figures appeared on the outskirts of the forest. One of them was Liao Fan, and the other was the teen who had discovered Chen Fan.

    ¡°Senior Brother Liao Fan, we¡¯ll find a valley stream after passing through this forest. Chen Fan was there a few days ago. He had just advanced to the fourth level then,¡± Yan Zheng told Liao Fan.

    A cold gleam flickered in Liao Fan''s eyes. He emanated a chilling aura, and his very being seemed enveloped in a frigid, murderous intent. He firmly said, ¡°The fifty primeval stones will be yours if we find that little bastard.¡±

    Yan Zheng¡¯s face lit up with happiness, and he blurted, ¡°I¡¯ll bring you there right now, Senior Brother Liao Fan. I left marks in the forest. We¡¯ll arrive at the stream the quickest by following them.¡±

    ¡°Lead the way!¡±

    Thus, the two traversed the woods under Yan Zheng¡¯s lead.

    They came across some demon beasts on their way, but Liao Fan was too strong for them. With a single swing of his precious sword, warm blood spurted in the air, ying those foolish demon beasts.

    An hourter, the two walked out of the forest.

    Yan Zheng pointed at a huge limestone by the stream and said, ¡°It¡¯s right there, Senior Brother Liao Fan. Chen Fan, that fellow, was sitting right there when he advanced to the fourth level.¡±

    ¡°Search!¡±

    Liao Fan shouted coldly, and they began searching around the valley stream.

    Soon, his sharp senses picked up on the heaven and earth primeval qi gathering in a certain direction.

    He narrowed his gaze, looking in that direction. It looked like a cave, but a massive boulder blocked its entrance.

    A cold smile appeared on Liao Fan¡¯s face, and he strode toward it.

    ¡°Come out, you little bastard!¡±

    Liao Fan shouted coldly, standing three meters away from the cave entrance.

    With a wave of his arm, his precious sword drew an arc in the air. A sharp sword light shed and fell on the rock blocking the cave entrance.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Following the loud explosion, the huge rock, weighing thousands of jin, was split into pieces, giving rise to a dust cloud.

    Inside the cave, Chen Fan shook while consolidating his cultivation. He hadn¡¯t expected someone to interrupt his secluded cultivation, affecting him a bit. He opened his eyes, and a cold glint shed in them.

    Interrupting someone during their cultivation was considered taboo among martial artists, as its consequences were unpredictable. At best, it could result in internal injuries, while at worst, it could disrupt the flow of qi, leading to qi deviation and potentially permanent disability.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank when he heard that cold shout from outside. He knew the speaker¡ªLiao Fan.

    Walking out of the cave, Chen Fan saw Liao Fan holding a precious sword and Yan Zheng carrying arge bow on his back. The two were looking at him with cold smiles.

    Liao Fan¡¯s appearance was especially striking, as cold, murderous intent enveloped him.

    ¡°Who are you people?¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t recognize Liao Fan, as he hadn¡¯t seen him before. Also, Liao Feng had only told him that he had a brother named Liao Fan, but nothing about his physical features. Therefore, he wanted to confirm their identities.

    ¡°You have a lot of guts, kid. You dared to kill Senior Brother Liao Fan¡¯s younger brother and are now asking who he is. Don¡¯t you find it funny?¡± Yan Zhengughed coldly before Liao Fan said anything.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression grew stern, realizing that his guess was right. The person in front of him was, indeed, Liao Fan.

    ¡°You¡¯re pretty smart, little bastard, running to Qingyang Mountain Range right after killing my little brother. You thought I wouldn¡¯t be able to find you?¡±

    Liao Fan looked at Chen Fan coldly, the murderous intent in his eyes almost palpable.

    ¡°Soon, I¡¯ll have you experience the worst tortures in this world. You will beg for death! You will watch as demon beasts eat you, one bite at a time. You will hear your bones breaking!¡±

    Liao Fan¡¯s chilling voice rang out, sending shivers down Chen Fan¡¯s spine.

 Chapter 15 - Vicious

    <h4>Chapter 15 - Vicious</h4>

    Liao Fan¡¯s words left Chen Fan shivering as he imagined the horrifying scene.

    He wanted to subject Chen Fan to the most excruciating tortures imaginable. He wanted to make Chen Fan watch as demon beasts ate him alive and hear his bones crunching.

    Liao Fan''s words caused goose bumps to rise on Chen Fan''s skin.

    Liao Fan was undoubtedly full of malice!

    Fortunately, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation had improved by leaps and bounds. His overall strength now allowed him to fight experts in the fifth level of the Qigong realm; from what he had heard from Liao Feng, he knew that Liao Fan was at the fifth level. So Chen Fan felt assured that he had a chance in a confrontation.

    ¡°Senior Brother Liao Fan... We¡¯ve found this kid. Shouldn¡¯t you...¡±

    Yan Zheng looked at Liao Fan, eyes full of anticipation. ¡°Of course, I do believe in Senior Brother Liao Fan¡¯s character. You can also give me the reward after we return to the sect.¡±

    Now that he had brought Liao Fan to Chen Fan, Yan Zheng believed it was time to collect his reward.

    Fifty primeval stones were enough for Yan Zheng to advance his third level cultivation to the fifth level, allowing him to shine brightly at the Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll give them to you now.¡± Liao Fan lifted his left hand to his chest

    Suddenly, he swung his right hand; with a swish, a cold sword light shed in front of Yan Zheng¡¯s face like lightning.

    ¡°Liao Fan, you...¡±

    Yan Zheng instantly stiffened, and his eyes widened. He stared at Liao Fan, trying to reach out and grab him in disbelief, but it was as if all his strength had slipped away.

    Chen Fan also shook in that instant, and his pupils shrunk violently.

    Starting from his forehead and going all the way down to his chin and neck, a red line appeared on Yan Zheng. The blood pressure inside made his head abruptly pop open, spurting fresh blood everywhere.

    Liao Fan had killed Yan Zheng with a sudden and swift sword strike.

    It was too sudden!

    Too inconceivable!

    Too unexpected!

    Chen Fan felt a chill in his heart. From their conversation, he had roughly inferred what had happened.

    Liao Fan had likely put up a bounty in the sect to draw many disciples to Qingyang Mountain Range in search of his whereabouts.

    When he had broken through to the fourth level the other day, he did sense someone spying from behind. That was most probably Yan Zheng.

    Afterward, Yan Zheng probably told Liao Fan his whereabouts and brought him to this valley stream.

    Yan Zheng had expected Liao Fan to honor the deal; unexpectedly, Liao Fan had no such intention and killed him quickly with a single swing. The poor fellow couldn¡¯t even react properly.

    What a cruel method!

    A chill went down Chen Fan¡¯s spine. He examined Liao Fan. This man was ruthless and definitely a dangerous individual.

    ¡°All right, there¡¯s no one else in the way. Now, it¡¯s your turn!¡±

    Liao Fan¡¯s expression was cold. The act of murder had failed to change his countenance even slightly.

    It was as if killing Yan Zheng was only a trivial matter, unworthy of his attention and no different from stepping on an ant.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan thrust his palm forward, unleashing a burst of golden light.

    A Vajra Seal, the size of a millstone, materialized and swiftly hurtled toward Liao Fan. The seal created powerful shockwaves, causing the air to explode in waves.

    Liao Fan''s eyes widened, caught off guard by Chen Fan''s unexpected attack.

    However, his reaction was swift. He tapped his feet lightly and retreated, putting some distance between them.

    His eyes gleamed with a cold light as he swiftly swung his arm, unleashing a cold radiance on the Vajra Seal. The sh cleaved the Vajra Seal, and it crumbled away.

    Seizing the advantage, Chen Fan wasted no time as Liao Fan attempted to retreat and quickly closed the distance.

    The primeval qi in his dantian revolved wildly, emanating a powerful aura. He unleashed a relentless barrage of palm strikes, making the air reverberate with a sound reminiscent of crashing waves.

    Palm seals had flooded the space around Liao Fan, filling the area with terrifying power. The strikes resonated with a deafening roar.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Liao Fan sensed the growing strength of the palm strikes directed at him; moreover, Chen Fan seemed intent on continuing this barrage endlessly. Chakravarti Seals shot out one after another, roaring at him, wanting to crush him to bits.

    ¡°That¡¯s a little interesting. A martial arts trash went from the Body Refinement realm to the fourth level of the Qigong realm in just two months. Looks like you¡¯ve indeede across some heavenly fortuitous encounter.¡±

    Even so, Liao Fan wasn¡¯t flustered in the slightest.

    He kept waving his arm. Streaks of cold light exploded in front of him, one after another, carrying a sharp aura, breaking apart the waves of iing Chakravarti Seals.

    ¡°You got this powerful martial skill from that fortuitous encounter, didn¡¯t you? Decent power; sadly, your cultivation is too weak. It can¡¯t be a threat to me! Break!¡±

    Liao Fan let out a stern cry. Cold light radiated from his long sword, seemingly freezing the air into sword qi. The attack struck Chen Fan, and he felt slight stinging pain.

    Suddenly, the crackling of thunder reverberated through the air.

    Liao Fan swung his sword, its de adorned with threads of purple electricity that resembled agile snakes darting about.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    A sound reminiscent of tofu being sliced echoed in the air.

    That purple sh of electricity moved like thunder, leaving a lingering burnt scent as it scorched the air in its wake.

    The Chakravarti Seals that Chen Fan continuously unleashed shattered like blocks of tofu upon impact.

    The streak of purple sword light didn¡¯t lose momentum even after that and ended up shing at Chen Fan, scaring him.

    He didn¡¯t expect Liao Fan¡¯s sh to be so powerful. Not only did it break through his Chakravarti Seal, but it still had enough force to sh at him.

    Chen Fan subconsciously took two steps back, yet the sword light showed no signs of relenting or dissipating. His pupils shrunk, and his muscles tensed, emitting an unbreakable aura.

    ¡°Shatter,¡±

    Chen Fan shouted. His spine bent like a bow, his tendons acted like the bowstring, and his fists filled with strength like arrows as he attacked the sharp purple sword light.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    This punch carried close to 6,000 jin of power behind it. The fist was like a cannonball, roaring in the air.

    The space shook, and a fierce wind swept out, blowing the dirt and rocks away. The iron-like fist smashed into the sword light, directly shattering it.

    Chen Fan checked his fist. It was in perfect condition. There wasn¡¯t even a mark on it. His face lit up. The defense of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art''s thirdyer was very strong.

    ¡°Hmm, you even started practicing body cultivation. This should also be something you¡¯ve obtained from that fortuitous encounter. Not bad, not bad. These are all mine now.¡±

    Liao Fan narrowed his eyes, revealing a look of ecstasy.

    When Liao Fan discovered that Chen Fan had killed his younger brother, he wondered how someone like Chen Fan pulled that off. He spected that Chen Fan must have encountered some kind of fortuitous opportunity.

    The seals and the body cultivation method Chen Fan had revealed were both truly extraordinary. If he could obtain them, his cultivation would surely improve greatly, advancing by leaps and bounds.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you a choice, little bastard. Hand that fortuitous encounter to me, and I¡¯ll grant you a quick death. Otherwise, get ready to hear demon beasts munching on your bones.¡±

    Liao Fan stared at Chen Fan with a greedy look in his eyes.

    ¡°You will kill me even if I hand over that to you? Since I¡¯m dying either way, why should I give it to you!?¡± Chen Fan said coldly. Unexpectedly, Liao Fan had guessed that he had encountered a fortuitous encounter.

    ¡°You still want to live after killing my younger brother? What a joke. Handing them over just buys you a quick death. I am already showing you great mercy, so don¡¯t turn it down,¡± Liao Fan said,ughing coldly.

    ¡°Hmph, if you want a fight, then that¡¯s what I¡¯ll give you. Enough nonsense. And why are you so sure you will win?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned sharp. Hisbat strength wasparable to an expert at the peak of the fifth level of the Qigong realm, so Liao Fan would have a tough time killing him.

 Chapter 16 - Fighting Liao Fan to the Death

    <h4>Chapter 16 - Fighting Liao Fan to the Death</h4>

    ¡°Hehe, looks like you¡¯re bursting with confidence after obtaining that fortuitous encounter. You think you can defeat me? Allow me to knock some sense into you!¡±

    Liao Fan mocked,ughing at Chen Fan¡¯s promation.

    It hadn¡¯t been long since Chen Fan ran into the fortuitous encounter. While his cultivation had improved by leaps and bounds, he still couldn¡¯t defeat Liao Fan.

    Liao Fan coveted Chen Fan¡¯s fortuitous encounter, as it had turned a trash like him into a prodigy. How could he not covet something this extraordinary?

    He even killed Yan Zheng with a sh to stop the news from leaking.

    Advancing with determined steps, Liao Fan swung his arm, his precious sword gleaming with a cold light and exuding a sharp aura. He mercilessly thrust the sword toward Chen Fan, aiming to end it quickly.

    Chen Fan flinched, not daring to take the attack lightly. He didn¡¯t have a weapon; facing Liao Fan¡¯s attack, he either had to dodge or take it head-on.

    Chen Fan roared as his primeval qi gathered in his palm, emanating a blinding golden light. A Vajra Seal materialized and collided with the oing sword, resulting in a violent sh.

    Chen Fan let out a low grunt and was pushed back a step, feeling a stinging pain in his palm. A white mark appeared on his jade-like skin.

    Meanwhile, Liao Fan merely trembled for a bit. Looking at Chen Fan with an evil grin, he said, ¡°Now you understand the difference between us. Hand over the fortuitous encounter if you know what¡¯s good for you, and I¡¯ll grant you a quick death. Otherwise, I have plenty of methods to make you spit it out after capturing you. You¡¯ll be wishing for death then.¡±

    The harrowing words fell into Chen Fan¡¯s ears. He knew Liao Fan was trying to pressure him psychologically.

    Liao Fan wanted to obtain his fortuitous encounter. So, he absolutely wouldn¡¯t kill him before Chen Fan spilled the beans.

    Many thoughts raced through Chen Fan''s mind as he realized he had underestimated Liao Fan''s cultivation level.

    Liao Fan¡¯s cultivation should be at the peak of the fifth level, and he had also practiced a powerful martial skill. His strength was terrifying. Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t be a match for him even if he used all his strength.

    ¡°Perhaps if I had achieved minor mastery in the Chakravarti Seal, I would have stood a chance against Liao Fan.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone. Numerous calctions raced through his mind every second as he strategized on how to confront his formidable adversary.

    ¡°Little bastard, are you trying to think of a way to deal with me? How funny. All schemes and tricks are nothing but paper in the face of absolute strength. I can tear them apart with a single sword.¡±

    Liao Fan saw through Chen Fan¡¯s thoughts and smiled coldly. ¡°Looks like you still harbor some sort of fantasy. I¡¯ve already given you the chance. Since you failed to appreciate it, I will simply capture you and extract the information by force.¡±

    He moved with the agility of a tiger, bringing a gust of wind with him, and struck Chen Fan.

    Liao Fan was fresh out of patience and had decided to capture Chen Fan and employ ruthless methods to extract the desired information.

    ¡°Thunderp Sword!¡±

    The sword crackled through the air like thunder.

    Chen Fan felt goose bumps rising on his skin due to the powerful electric current in the air. Liao Fan¡¯s martial skill was so terrifying that the surprise alone overwhelmed him.

    With no time to spare, Chen Fan hastily channeled his primeval qi into his palms, frantically unleashing a barrage of Chakravarti Seals to block Liao Fan''s sword. However, the force behind Liao Fan''s strike was too strong, shattering the numerous palm strikes in an instant.

    Fortunately, the primeval qi in Chen Fan¡¯s dantian was thick and robust, allowing him to fight like this for quite a while. Under his constant barrage, Liao Fan''s sword strike gradually weakened, eventually crumbling under the pressure.

    While constantly sending out palm strikes, Chen Fan¡¯s mind spun quickly under the pressure. His eyes lit up, and he took a deep breath. He alternated between slow and fast-paced attacks, employing various speeds to keep his opponent off bnce.

    ¡°Yes, this is it. Cycles of the sea... there are times when the waves are fierce and moments of calm and gentle tides. Chakravarti Seal. I get it now!¡±

    He sent another Chakravarti Seal toward his opponent, but this one carried a torrential murderous qi. The surrounding space seemed to mimic undting waves as the air condensed intoyers, resembling a cascade of palm seals stacking upon one another.

    He had achieved minor mastery of the Chakravarti Seal.

    ¡°His martial skill has advanced by a small realm!¡±

    Liao Fan shook, feeling a sense of danger.

    The Chakravarti Seal, which Liao Fan had initially deemed harmless to Liao Fan, had grown so strong that it filled him with a sense of crisis.

    ¡°Hmph, break!¡± Liao Fan shouted, driving the primeval qi in his dantian. His precious sword instantly shed like purple lightning, falling onto the Chakravarti Seal.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud explosion urred, and the shockwave pushed back both of them.

    ¡°Haha, watch this!¡±

    The determination in Chen Fan¡¯s heart rose when he saw the collision pushing back Liao Fan. Heughed out loud as his true nature awoke. He started charging forward like a wild ox, straight toward Liao Fan. Palm seals spread about, covering the area with Chakravarti Seals, locking this space down.

    Liao Fan''s gaze darkened as he hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to be this strong after advancing his martial skill by a small realm. The fact that Chen Fan could push him back ignited a fire within Liao Fan''s heart.

    Streak after streak of sword light exploded in the air like thunder. Threads of electricity flickered about in the space. Liao Fan''s Thunderp Sword was no ordinary attack; it possessed formidable and impressive powers.

    As the battle raged on, Liao Fan found himself at a disadvantage, failing to counter Chen Fan effectively.

    The force behind the Chakravarti Seal was both gentle and explosive, astonishing Liao Fan. Chen Fan¡¯s defense was equally remarkable, as every time Liao Fannded a hit on him with his sword, he felt like he had struck something metallic.

    Of course, Liao Fan¡¯sprehensive strength was still a touch above Chen Fan. Although he couldn¡¯t end the fight, he could beat Chen Fan like a drum, making him throw up blood and give him some deep wounds, cutting a rather sorry figure. However, Chen Fan¡¯s aura grew fiercer the more they fought, his eyes revealing a shade of madness, his desire for battle extremely strong as he roared like an injured lion.

    Chen Fan had never fought an expert like Liao Fan before. A bitter battle like this was extremely beneficial to growing hisbat experience.

    Not only that, after executing the Chakravarti Seal consecutively, Chen Fan felt his mastery growing. He became more skillful and natural at it, steadily inching toward major mastery.

    On the contrary, Liao Fan grew increasingly apprehensive the longer they battled, feeling spooked out by Chen Fan.

    Chakravarti Seal was obviously a martial skill that consumed extreme amounts of primeval qi. Still, Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi showed no traces of drying up, even after he was attacking nonstop. This was definitely not something a fourth-level Qigong martial artist could do.

    ¡°You damnable little bastard, no wonder you dare to act so arrogant in front of me. You do have some tricks up your sleeve, but you will have to spit out that fortuitous encounter, nheless. You will also have to die today. Do you really think the peak stage of the fifth level is my real strength?¡± said Liao Fan coldly. His aura erupted following his words, rushing toward the seventh level of the Qigong realm.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A violent windstorm emanated from Liao Fan, sweeping up sand and rocks. It struck Chen Fan with tremendous force, making him stagger backward with a terrified expression.

    ¡°Sixth level of the Qigong realm!¡±

    Chen Fan eximed, looking at Liao Fan in shock.

    Liao Fan¡¯s aura had be far stronger than before. Chen Fan felt suffocated under his powerful aura.

    "I had originally nned to unveil this at the Outer Sect Grand Competition, but I didn''t expect to be pushed to this extent by a mere brat like you. Nevertheless, you should feel honored to have forced me to unleash my sixth-level cultivation to deal with you," Liao Fan dered.

    Before Chen Fan could react, Liao Fan''s figure shed like a ghost, appearing instantly before him.

    The sound of crackling electricity filled the air as Chen Fan witnessed a chilling streak of purple lightning sh before his eyes, followed by a pain in his chest. He let out a miserable shriek and flew more than ten meters back, crashing into the ground. A long, bloody wound adorned his chest, with flesh turned inside out and drenched in blood.

 Chapter 17 - Passively Taking a Beating

    <h4>Chapter 17 - Passively Taking a Beating</h4>

    Chen Fan felt as if he had been ripped open, feeling a burning pain in his chest. He hurriedly crawled up to his feet, his gaze nervously set on Liao Fan, shocked to his core.

    He had cultivated Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the thirdyer, greatly increasing his toughness. Even so, that sword earlier was backed by the eruption of Liao Fan¡¯s terrifying sixth-level cultivation, not to mention the power of the Thunderp Sword. The sword sh was vicious, leaving a wound deep enough to expose his bone.

    Too terrifying!

    A sixth-level Qigong martial artist¡¯s strength was too shocking.

    With such cultivation, one could easily secure a spot in the top 100 at the Outer Sect Grand Competition and receive rewards from the sect.

    Chen Fan was feeling rather terrified at this moment.

    He had initially believed that he could engage in a satisfying battle against Liao Fan, who was at the fifth level, testing his newfound strength. He had thought it impossible for Liao Fan to kill him.

    Things were different now, however. Liao Fan¡¯s cultivation was at the sixth level.

    A single sword was enough to slice his flesh. He would have died had that sword been swung at his neck and cut his windpipe.

    ¡°What do I do? What should I do?¡±

    Chen Fan panicked internally, feeling as restless as an ant on a hot pan. His mind raced, desperately searching for a countermeasure.

    The current situation was highly unfavorable, and his likelihood of being killed was rmingly high.

    ¡°Right! I can lure him to the Violent Ape and find a chance to slip away¡ªno, the Violent Ape will probably join hands with Liao Fan to deal with me if it sees me. I would be dead without a doubt then.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t think of running away, little bastard. I would have no face left if I let you run away after unleashing my sixth-level cultivation.¡±

    Liao Fan didn¡¯t even bother trying to guess what was in Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    A sixth-level Qigong expert like him could easily enter the top 100 within Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s outer sect. Allowing Chen Fan to escape would be a tremendous blow to his reputation.

    ¡°You little beast, you don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for you. Once I capture you, I''ll grind your bones inch by inch. Let''s see if you can still speak then."

    Liao Fanughed evilly, swinging his precious sword, cleaving the air before him. Thick, murderous qi instantly enveloped Chen Fan.

    <i>Damn it, if only I could break through to the fifth level, I might have a chance at survival! </i>He quickly mobilized his qi, unleashing a Vajra Seal to fend off Liao Fan while simultaneously darting away, attempting to escape.

    He was no match for Liao Fan if he confronted him head-on, and getting captured by Liao Fan was only a matter of time.

    Liao Fan''s merciless nature made it clear that he would follow through on his threats, grinding Chen Fan''s bones and making him hear as demon beasts ate him alive, leaving him longing for death.

    Qingyang Mountain Range was full of demon beasts. The deeper one ventured the more powerful these creatures became. Near the inner area were even demon beasts as strong as Yuanfu realm experts.

    Chen Fan''s only option now was to take a gamble and flee toward the depths of the Qingyang Mountain Range. Although dangerous, he could navigate around any powerful demon beasts he encountered and perhaps escape with his life intact. Of course, there was also the possibility of being killed and devoured by these creatures.

    However, he didn¡¯t have any other options avable to him right now. He had to steel himself and bet on his luck.

    Seeing Chen Fan trying to escape, Liao Fan immediately guessed his thoughts. He smiled coldly and said sinisterly, ¡°Thinking of running? You won¡¯t make it out of this valley stream today!¡±

    Liao Fan would also be in danger if he let Chen Fan escape into the depths of Qingyang Mountain Range. As such, he definitely couldn¡¯t allow Chen Fan to leave this valley.

    Liao Fan swiftly advanced, generating a fierce gust of wind as he moved. He was an expert at the seventh level and much faster than Chen Fan. Closing in to within three meters, he swung his sword, inflicting a bloody wound and sending Chen Fan hurtling through the air.

    Chen Fan let out a miserable scream. He promptly rolled on the ground and dodged Liao Fan¡¯s second sh. However, the raised boulders and rocks struck him with a powerful force akin to a punch from a fifth-level Qigong martial artist, making him inhale sharply.

    ¡°You roll quite well. Wait till I cripple your dantian and shatter your cultivation. We¡¯ll see how fast you can roll then!¡± a malicious voice echoed near Chen Fan''s ears, changing his expression.

    A martial artist with a damaged dantian and crippled cultivation was, in the truest sense, trash. It was even worse than having blocked meridians and an iron-like dantian.

    ¡°What do I do? I won¡¯t be able to escape. He¡¯s faster than me, his cultivation higher than mine... Cultivation... since that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll also advance my cultivation. There¡¯s hope for me as long as I break through to the fifth level!¡±

    Chen Fan made a resolute decision. Currently, his only way out was to achieve a breakthrough in his cultivation.

    He was already at the peak of the fourth level. Due to consuming the Jade Lotus Flower, his foundation was solid and stable, devoid of any instability. As long as sufficient primeval qi existed, he could shatter the paper-thin barrier that kept him from the fifth level.

    With this thought in mind, Chen Fan hastily retrieved a few primeval stones from his pocket and activated his cultivation technique, absorbing their pure primeval qi.

    However, he couldn¡¯t conceal this from Liao Fan¡¯s eyes. Chan Fan could fight him to a draw before he had used his sixth-level cultivation. So, if he let Chen Fan advance to the fifth level, he would be in trouble.

    ¡°Thinking of making a breakthrough right in front of me? Wishful thinking! Break!¡± A whirlwind materialized in the air. A sword light suddenly appeared in the space before Chen Fan, shing down at his wrist.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk abruptly. He had no choice but to give up on absorbing the primeval qi from the stones. With swift movements, he thrust out his palms,yering the waves of air one after another, resembling the surging waves of a fierce sea.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    s, the mighty Chakravarti Seals were all shattered under the unbreakable cold sword light. Even so, they bought Chen Fan time to retreat, creating a sufficient distance between him and Liao Fan.

    ¡°You won¡¯t get away!¡±

    However, Liao Fan didn¡¯t give Chen Fan time to catch his breath. He rushed forward, approaching Chen Fan in an instant. The sword light from his de swept forth in a crisscross pattern, resembling a woven by the heavens and earth, intending to slice Chen Fan into countless pieces.

    ¡°Damn it, I¡¯ll fight you to the death!¡±

    A shade of viciousness appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. At that moment, his entire being transformed into a primordial, ferocious beast, emanating a fierce aura as if he were willing to meet his demise alongside Liao Fan.

    Liao Fan jumped in fright but immediatelyughed coldly and said disdainfully, ¡°Who are you intimidating? Get crippled!¡±

    The sword thrust forward, its angle vicious and deceptive. Its target was not Chen Fan''s chest, shoulders, or arms this time, but his abdomen. Liao Fan aimed to destroy Chen Fan''s dantian and cripple his cultivation, intending to render himpletely helpless and at his mercy.

    In the face of the crisis, Chen Fan took half a step to the side.

    Liao Fan''s sword pierced Chen Fan''s waist, creating a gushing fountain of fresh blood. He had no choice but to use his primeval qi to seal the wound and prevent himself from dying.

    Chen Fan tilted slightly forward, exhaling milky-white hot air from his nose and mouth, panting heavily. His eyes were faintly blood-red, staring at Liao Fan like an injured wild wolf, but his gaze was still wild and ferocious.

 Chapter 18 - Fifth Level of Qigong

    <h4>Chapter 18 - Fifth Level of Qigong</h4>

    ¡°Does staring fiercely help?¡±

    Noticing Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious gaze, Liao Fan smiled coldly, revealing a look of disdain.

    Liao Fan deftly tapped his sword, producing a crisp sound and making the bloodstains fly off. Under the sunlight, the sword gleamed with a cold shine.

    ¡°You possess neither a weapon nor a powerful cultivation. While your martial skill is powerful, you can¡¯t hurt me with it. What can you fight me with? I advise you to act sensibly and surrender the cultivation technique and martial skill you obtained. In return, I¡¯ll grant you a quick death with my sword, saving you from more suffering," Liao Fan said, his smile filled with coldness.

    ¡°Ptooi! You can forget about getting them even if I have to die!¡± Chen Fan red at Liao Fan fiercely, spitting out a bloody phlegm.

    ¡°So stubborn. I wonder if your bones are equally unyielding.¡± Liao Fan''s eyes gleamed with a grim light. He swung his sword, and a sharp wind de flew toward Chen Fan like a real sword.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan shattered the wind de with a palm and charged at Liao Fan with a ferocious gaze. His primeval qi surged, spreading outward; Liao Fan¡¯s pupils contracted. He didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan¡¯s primeval to be this thick and robust.

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm wind whistled, making the air tremble. He moved like a starving tiger hunting a sheep. His hips, waist, limbs, and spine moved in perfect harmony, akin to a fully drawn bow,unching a relentless assault on Liao Fan.

    He didn¡¯t stop unleashing Vajra Seals and Chakravarti Seals in the meanwhile. The space blossomed with golden light, and the air surged like waves,yer afteryer, resembling a towering mountain as it darted toward Liao Fan.

    Chen Fan was going all out and only had let five words remaining in his head. <i>Fight with everything you have! </i>

    He would die if he didn¡¯t fight like there was no tomorrow!

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Liao Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk, shaken by Chen Fan¡¯s reckless way of fighting.

    Although he was stronger than Chen Fan, thetter was fighting like he didn¡¯t care for his life. His punches and kicks were like the wind, his momentum fierce like a storm, focusing solely on offense and neglecting defense, seemingly willing to exchange injury for injury.

    Liao Fan could pierce Chen Fan¡¯s flesh with his sword. Although the wound was deep, it still failed to im Chen Fan''s life. Meanwhile, Chen Fan¡¯s Vajra Seals and Chakravarti Seals were incredibly powerful. His flesh wasn¡¯t as tough as Chen Fan¡¯s, so a single attack left him coughing up blood.

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe your primeval qi is thicker than mine! I¡¯ll y the long game with you. We shall see how you fare when your primeval qi is depleted!¡±

    A cold light shed in Liao Fan¡¯s eyes. Facing Chen Fan¡¯s desperate bombardment, he moved his sword like performing a graceful dance, enveloping himself in sword light tinged with purple threads of electricity. The light swirled in the air, forming a vast, as Liao Fan aimed to wear down Chen Fan over time.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was cold and ferocious. He never even considered the consumption of primeval qi. All that mattered to him was to continue attacking as if he would not relent until he beat Liao Fan to death.

    It seemed like he couldn¡¯t live until he had turned into a crazy demon!

    Chen Fan''s mind devoid of any thoughts other than unleashing one skill after another

    Unbeknownst to him, his Chakravarti Seal was rapidly improving, relentlessly shattering theyers of sword light surrounding Liao Fan.

    ¡°Curses! Is this little bastard¡¯s martial skill about to make another breakthrough? It is bing increasingly stronger!¡± Liao Fan naturally felt the difference and was shocked.

    Under this relentless assault, Chen Fan''s primeval qi in his dantian was also rapidly depleting. No matter how thick his primeval qi was, it could not sustain such intense consumption, weakening his attacks.

    ¡°Haha, little bastard, your primeval must be drying up. You¡¯re done for!¡± Liao Fanughed out loud. He had sensed Chen Fan¡¯s strikes growing weaker, and the once surging primeval qi within him now seemed weak, indicating its depletion.

    ¡°Heaven Seizing Art!¡± Chen Fan roared. The Heaven Seizing Art suddenly spun with great intensity and madness.

    Normally, when a martial artist cultivated, they required a serene environment to activate their cultivation technique and absorb the primeval qi of heaven and earth. Even the slightest mistake in the cirction path could prove fatal to the martial artist.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t have the luxury to worry about all that. The primeval qi in his dantian was on the verge ofplete exhaustion, and he needed to find a way to replenish it. Liao Fan would never allow him to absorb the qi in the primeval stones, so he could only risk activating the Heaven Seizing Art in such an intense situation, plundering the primeval qi in heaven and earth.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    The space began to tremble violently like a level twelve typhoon was blowing. The surrounding trees swayed, the leaves ttered, and rocks and sand were swept up, creating a cacophony of noise.

    Liao Fan witnessed a funnel-shaped vortex forming above Chen Fan''s head, drawing in pure heaven and earth primeval qi. Huge amounts of heaven and earth primeval qi poured into Chen Fan.

    ¡°A martial phenomenon! Heavens, what kind of fortuitous encounter did you encounter? And what kind of qi cultivation technique is this? Earth tier? Heaven tier?! o actually manifest a martial phenomenon... this is incredible, too incredible!¡±

    Liao Fan looked incredibly shocked. This scene shook his soul. His throat went dry, and his eyes burned with the fires of greed.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder your cultivation has skyrocketed in such a short time. This qi cultivation technique is your greatest stroke of luck! Mine, I must obtain this! With this qi cultivation technique, I can look forward to advancing to the Qi Ancestor, Yuanfu, or even the Core Formation realm!

    Liao Fan¡¯s gaze trembled, and even his voice shook slightly.

    ¡°I can¡¯t let him continue this. He¡¯s only a step away from the fifth level. If he manages to break through, I won''t be able to defeat himter, and this incredible opportunity will slip away from me!¡±

    Liao Fan calmed his agitated mind, but his heart still thumped violently, pumpingrge amounts of hot blood and making his face flushed.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Liao Fan stepped forth and thrust his sword at Chen Fan¡¯s dantian.

    It was the simplest and most vicious method¡ªto cripple Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation and then force this terrifying cultivation technique¡¯s passages out of him with torture and interrogation.

    ¡°Devour!¡±

    At this moment, Chen Fan was also at the final hurdle. Working the Heaven Seizing Art to the extreme, the terrifyingly crazy suction drew all the heaven and earth primeval qi within a ten-mile radius to this location, pouring it into him.

    Chen Fan could sense the primeval qi in his dantian replenishing rapidly and constantly expanding. He was already a step into the fifth level of the Qigong realm; he just needed to take that final step.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Chen Fan roared furiously, splitting his attention into two. He unleashed powerful punches and threw Vajra and Chakravarti seals to stop Liao Fan, buying himself more time. He needed just a little more time.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Liao Fan roared as well. Sword light shed like a rainbow, electricity coiling around them. His sword was like an electric python, tearing through the starry skies and shing the seals, aiming to annihte everything in its path.

    <i>Bang bang bang...</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s attacks were destroyed almost instantly. With no obstacles left, the icy cold sword light aimed for Chen Fan''s dantian, and a savage smile appeared on Liao Fan''s face.

    ¡°Haah!¡±

    However, Chen Fan roared just as Liao Fan¡¯s sword pierced his skin. His aura erupted violently like a volcano.

    A terrifying wave of air rushed out from Chen Fan''s center, resembling a tsunami, crushing rocks and reducing them to powder wherever it passed.

    <i>Crash!</i>

    <i>ng!</i>

    The violent wave of air collided with Liao Fan, making him feel as if a wild elephant had charged into him. He was sent flying more than ten meters back like a bird with clipped wings, his sword falling to the ground.

    ¡°Fifth level!¡±

    Liao Fan eximed in shock. Half-lying on the ground, he supported his body with one hand, his expression filled with horror as he looked at Chen Fan.

 Chapter 19 - Reverse Kill

    <h4>Chapter 19 - Reverse Kill</h4>

    ¡°Haah...!¡±

    After advancing his cultivation, Chen Fan let out a roar to the skies. His voice was like thunder, rumbling in all directions. The air trembled as powerful sound waves exploded, creating concentric circles of white airwaves.

    He had broken through. In the instant Liao Fan¡¯s sword had pierced his skin, Chen Fan finally pushed through the heavy gates to the fifth level of the Qigong realm.

    Liao Fan had already crawled up to his feet, picked up his fallen precious sword, and held it tightly. His expression was gruesome at the moment.

    Liao Fan hade so close to achieving his goal. With just a breath''s time, he could have destroyed Chen Fan''s dantian, crippling his qi cultivation. All of Chen Fan''s fortuitous encounters, powerful qi cultivation techniques, martial skills, and body cultivation techniques would have been his. But in the end, it was all in vain.

    Chen Fan looked at Liao Fan coldly, killing intent shing in his eyes.

    It was true that a person''s potential was often drawn out in life-or-death situations. If he had been cultivating in peace, he would have never advanced so quickly to the fifth level. It would have taken him at least two or three days to reach there.

    However, at that moment of imminent danger, he had broken through. His qi cultivation wasn¡¯t destroyed, and he didn¡¯t end up a cripple at Liao Fan''s mercy. In that instant, there had been only one thing in his mind, or even his entire being¡ªBreakthrough!

    A life-or-death battle was the perfect catalyst for unlocking one''s hidden potential. The pressure of facing death, if he failed to break through, had allowed him to triumph against all odds and surpass his limits.

    ¡°Hahaha...¡±

    Chen Fan broke out in crazedughter. His cultivation had improved, his dantian was rich with primeval qi, and his strength had significantly improved. Facing Liao Fan, he no longer worried about dying like before, as his opponent could no longer threaten his life.

    ¡°You want my qi cultivation technique and my fortuitous encounter? Come trade it with your life!¡± Chen Fan stoppedughing, and a murderous aura surged from him.

    Earlier, Liao Fan had beaten him up badly; now, it was time for payback.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan''s voice rang out with a fierce determination. Like a gust of wind, he swiftly charged toward Liao Fan, his primeval qi surging and forming a Vajra Seal. Without mercy, the seal hurtled toward Liao Fan with incredible speed.

    With his breakthrough in cultivation, the might of his martial skill had also significantly increased.

    ¡°Break.¡±

    Liao Fan''s previously rxed and carefree expression vanished, reced by a grave look. Purple light burst from his precious sword, crackling with electricity as it shed out like a coiling electric python.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Although he cleaved the Vajra Seal, Liao Fan trembled from the impact, sensing the ferocious strengthing from his sword. His expression turned even more grim, but he didn¡¯t have the time to think things through. The sound of sea waves crashing filled his ears; suddenly, a violent wind swept towards him.

    ¡°Extreme Thunder Rush! sh!¡± Liao Fan hurriedly drove his primeval qi and executed a skill from the Thunderp Sword technique.

    Chakravarti Seals came crashing towards him like relentless waves, causing his precious sword to vibrate and emit a humming sound. The shockwaves tore the webbing between his fingers, and the force was so intense that he was forced to retreat constantly.

    ¡°Haha, I¡¯ll let you go wild. Show me something even better!¡± Chen Fan was ecstatic as the tables had turned. Thrusting his palms in and out, he sent numerous Chakravarti Seals flying toward him. The exhration he felt was indescribable.

    Previously, Liao Fan hadpletely dominated the fight, and Chen Fan was forced to defend himself at the risk of sustaining further injuries. His frustration finally had an outlet as he prepared to give Liao Fan a taste of his own medicine.

    ¡°Damn it, just you wait!¡±

    Liao Fan knew he could no longer take down Chen Fan, so he immediately prepared to retreat. He intended to find another opportunity to deal with Chen Fan or spread the news of his fortuitous encounter. He hoped to subject Chen Fan to endless pursuits, making it impossible to escape, even if he were to fly to the heavens or burrow into the earth.

    ¡°Thinking of escaping? Can you?¡±

    Chen Fan obviously wouldn¡¯t let Liao Fan escape. He had already disyed the heaven-defying nature of Heaven Seizing Art to Liao Fan. If word about it spread, he knew that his life would be a cat-and-mouse game. Those coveting his belongings would no longer be people like Liao Fan but Qi Grandmasters¡ªcultivators at the ninth level of the Qigong realm¡ªYuanfu realm experts, or even the Core Formation realm masters.

    Any one of those people could kill Chen Fan with a finger.

    Swiftly grabbing Yan Zheng''srge bow and iron arrow, Chen Fan drew the bowstring back, forming a perfect arc. With a swoosh, the iron arrow sliced through the air, emitting a piercing sound as it shot toward Liao Fan.

    Although Liao Fan was fast, his speed was far fromparable to a released iron arrow. If Liao Fan continued running straight ahead, this arrow would pierce through him.

    Left without a choice, Liao Fan could only turn around abruptly, stopping in ce and swinging his arm down in a shing motion, cutting through the air and splitting the iron arrow in two.

    However, Chen Fan had fully drawn therge bow, infusing the arrow with a force of 5,000 jin. Despite managing to split the arrow, Liao Fan was shaken by the tremendous force and staggered backward.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan had already caught up to him by now. He leaped up, hanging in midair, and struck out with his palms consecutively.

    A furious roar reverberated through the space as the waves of the Chakravarti Seals mmed down with tremendous force, creating a powerful gust of wind that crushed rocks into powder, sending some of them flying thirty feet away.

    This palm was the Chakravarti Seal at major mastery!

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Fear crept up in Liao Fan¡¯s eyes. Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level increasing was one thing; now, even his martial skill had reached a higher realm. The double advancement was good news to Chen Fan, but it was a disaster for him.

    Liao Fan stabbed his sword upwards, unleashing a purple lightning bolt. However, the bolt deted like a balloon at first contact with the Chakravarti Seal.

    The Chakravarti Seals continued smashing down, pounding on the precious sword and causing it to shake violently, numbing Liao Fan''s fingers. The webbing between his fingers split open further, and fresh blood dripped from his hand as his sword flew out of his grasp.

    ¡°No...¡±

    Seeing theyers of Chakravarti Seals raining down at him, Liao Fan let out a roar mixed with fear and fury. His primeval qi spread out, enveloping him. However, he still copsed instantly from the impact, breaking countless bones and flying away before crashing into arge stone. He fell face down on the ground and vomited mouthfuls of blood; he was on the verge of death.

    Chen Fannded on the ground and picked up Liao Fan¡¯s precious sword before walking toward him step by step.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me. I¡¯m a member of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. They will definitely take revenge for me if you kill me. You won¡¯t have anywhere to escape to!¡± Liao Fan shrieked in terror.

    Chen Fanughed coldly, ¡°Your little brother made simr threats before, but I still killed him. If the Heaven''s Alliance wants to avenge you, then let theme. You think I¡¯m scared of them?¡±

    Chen Fan used to be a martial arts trash of the outer sect with a feeble presence, but even he had heard about Heaven¡¯s Alliance. He knew this was an outer sect organization, but he didn¡¯t know exactly how strong they were.

    They couldn''t be that powerful because outer sect disciples were, at best, Qi Grandmasters. He wouldn''t fear even a Qi Grandmaster if he were to advance two more levels. Therefore, he didn¡¯t worry about Liao Fan¡¯s threat too much. With a wave of his arm, a cold sword light swiped toward Liao Fan¡¯s neck.

    If he didn''t uproot the grass, it would grow again when the spring wind blew. [1]

    Chen Fan understood the importance of eliminating his enemiespletely. Moreover, since he had exposed the Heaven Seizing Art to Liao Fan, letting him go would be equivalent to harming himself.

    ¡°Don¡¯t...¡±

    Liao Fan¡¯s cries ended abruptly when the sword light swept across his neck, causing blood to spray like an arrow.

    1. Meaning more trouble wille at ater time if he didn¡¯t handle the problem thoroughly ?

 Chapter 20 - Thunderclap Sword

    <h4>Chapter 20 - Thunderp Sword</h4>

    ¡°Heaven¡¯s Alliance, I¡¯ll be waiting...¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, looking down at Liao Fan¡¯s corpse, its eyes wide open.

    With his cultivation steadily increasing, so did his confidence. He would undoubtedly put up a strong fight if anyone dared to bully him.

    Liao Fan could never have imagined that his reckless pursuit of Chen Fan would ultimately lead to his demise.

    ¡°Right, the Heaven Seizing Art can plunder the talents of recently deceased martial artists. This is the perfect chance to test if this is true.¡±

    Chen Fan endured the pain coursing through him, sat beside Liao Fan¡¯s corpse, and activated the Heaven Seizing Art.

    An invisible force enveloped Liao Fan¡¯s corpse. Immediately, wisps of transparent smoke appeared and entered Chen Fan¡¯s seven orifices. [1]

    These wisps of smoke were Liao Fan''s talents.

    Immediately, Chen Fan felt his mind bing clearer, his brain activity quickening, and his calcting ability sharpening. His talents had indeed received a slight boost.

    ¡°So it can. The increase is minor, though. I almost couldn¡¯t notice it,¡± Chen Fan muttered, shaking his head. He stood up and walked toward Yan Zheng¡¯s corpse, repeating the same process.

    Unfortunately, Yan Zheng had been dead for some time now. His corpse had turned cold, and Chen Fan, therefore, couldn¡¯t plunder Yan Zheng¡¯s talents.

    Undeterred, he began searching the two corpses for any valuable items.

    Yan Zheng¡¯s cultivation level wasn¡¯t high, and he didn¡¯t have an impressive background. Moreover, with the Outer Sect Grand Competition approaching, he had few cultivation resources left. Chen Fan only managed to find two primeval stones and a lower-dirt tier martial skill for archery.

    He returned to Liao Fan¡¯s corpse, his gaze fixating on a one-foot long, half-foot wide gray cloth sack fastened to Liao Fan''s waist. Chen Fan smacked his lips and said, ¡°Tsk, tsk, it¡¯s actually a storage pouch. There must be something good inside.¡±

    A storage pouch was a low-ranking item used for storage purposes. It had little space; for outer sect disciples like him, it was a luxury item. Very few could afford it because of its steep price: twenty primeval stones at least.

    Chen Fan removed the storage pouch and opened it, pouring its contents out. His eyes immediately lit up with excitement.

    Inside, he found over twenty primeval stones, a bottle of recovery pills, a martial arts manual, and various daily necessities.

    Chen Fan picked up the jade bottle with the recovery pills. It had three one-star middle-grade Muscle Regenerating Pills. Each pill cost three primeval stones in the outer sect.

    After he tossed one pill into his mouth, he felt the pill melting away instantly, spreading its effects throughout him. His back, shoulders, chest, and other areas started itching like ants were crawling on him.

    Chen Fan knew that was a sign of his flesh and blood regenerating.

    ¡°As expected of a one-star, middle-grade pill. Its effects are so obvious and instant. Good stuff indeed.¡±

    He picked up the martial arts manual next and flipped it open. He couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°It¡¯s actually an upper-dirt tier martial skill!¡±

    The Thunderp Sword technique, which Liao Fan had previously demonstrated, was incredibly powerful. Each sword strike resembled a thunderous st, fierce and violent enough to overwhelm even Chen Fan''s special physique.

    Chen Fan used to think it was a middle-dirt tier martial skill, but it turned out to be at an upper-dirt tier one.

    ¡°Looks like Liao Fan only recently advanced to the sixth level. He only learned the basics of the Thunderp Sword, not even aplishing minor mastery. Otherwise, the power it disyed would have been even stronger, able to break my bones with a single strike.¡±

    Chen Fan muttered to himself as he delved into the Thunderp Sword technique.

    This sword technique possessed immense power, exuding a fierce and domineering aura. After all, it was rted to lightning and thunder¡ªone of the most powerful natural forces, able to strike a martial artist to death easily.

    In ancient records and legends, mortals seeking enlightenment and the Dao often faced numerous tribtions, including lightning tribtions. Many on the cusp of bing immortals met their demise under the terrifying might of lightning and thunder.

    "It has benefited me," Chen Fan remarked with a smile.

    One could head up to the third floor of the Martial Arts Pavilion to pick out a martial arts manual after reaching the sixth level. After advancing to the sixth level, Liao Fan must have picked out the Thunderp Sword manual from the Martial Arts Pavilion.

    Chen Fan gathered all the useful items, returned them to the storage pouch, and burned the useless things along with the two corpses to destroy the evidence, not leaving any trace behind.

    After doing all this, he switched locations. He found a cave and went into seclusion, healing his injuries.

    Although the Muscle Regenerating Pill healed all his physical injuries, he still needed to recuperate from his internal injuries slowly.

    The severe beating he had endured from Liao Fan before his breakthrough had left him with significant internal trauma, with blood clots umting within his body. Even circting his qi didn¡¯t feel very smooth now.

    Five dayster, a sh of sword light illuminated the forest, apanied by faint thunderous explosions. What was surprising was the sound hade from the sword light.

    <i>Boom boom boom...</i>

    Trees exploded everywhere the sword went. A handsome youth practiced a technique with a precious sword. His moves were graceful, like he was dancing, but his strikes were powerful.

    ¡°As expected of an upper-dirt tier martial skill. It¡¯s indeed powerful, even a little stronger than the Chakravarti Seal,¡± said Chen Fan, practicing his swordy.

    He had fully recovered from his internal injuries three days ago and had spent thest two days practicing the Thunderp Sword technique. The more he practiced, the more he felt the greatness of this sword technique. It focused on explosive power, making it incredibly formidable.

    He had already achieved minor mastery of the technique. With a swing of the sword, lightning-like sword light shed, apanied by the resounding echoes of thunder, leaving anyone who witnessed it in awe.

    ¡°Luckily, the primeval qi in my dantian is thick and robust, not inferior to any sixth-level Qigong martial artist. Otherwise, I couldn¡¯t disy the Thunderp Sword¡¯s power at all.¡±

    The higher the tier of a martial art, the more powerful it became, but it also required a greater expenditure of primeval qi during execution.

    Ordinary fifth-level Qigong martial artists couldn¡¯t sessfully practice the Thunderp Sword because they didn¡¯t have enough primeval qi to support it.

    This was why the Spring Autumn Sect restricted ess to the various floors of the Martial Arts Pavilion based on disciples'' cultivation levels. One should only practice martial arts suitable for one''s current cultivation level and not be overly ambitious.

    Only individuals like Chen Fan, who had fortuitous encounters and possessed a dantian ten timesrger than others and wider and tougher meridians, could withstand the primeval qi consumption and meridian pressure associated with executing higher-tier martial arts.

    Chen Fan was covered in sweat, and his clothing was drenched. More than half of the primeval qi in his dantian was also spent. He took a moment to catch his breath, sitting on a stone about half the height of an adult.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already been out for more than two months. My cultivation has improved by leaps and bounds, and Liao Fan is also dead. I don¡¯t need to keep hiding in Qingyang Mountain Range anymore.¡±

    ¡°But before I return to the sect, I must make a trip to the Violent Ape¡¯s cave first to see if I can use the pool there to temper myself further and advance the level of my Myriad Elephants Divine Art.¡±

    With his decision made, Chen Fan quickly replenished his exhausted primeval qi and set off toward the Violent Ape''s cave.

    1. The body orifices are: nostrils, eyes, mouth, ear canals, anus, urethra, and navel ?

 Chapter 21 - Third Layer Complete Mastery

    <h4>Chapter 21 - Third Layer Complete Mastery</h4>

    The wind whistled, unsettling the forest. A cacophony erupted in the dense outer area of the Qingyang Mountain Range, resembling the tumultuous seas.

    Chen Fan soared through the air, his precious sword unleashing explosive thunder-like strikes, relentlessly shing at the Blood-pupiled ck Python.

    This tier-one, sixth-level demon beast was the Violent Ape¡¯s nemesis. It bore the scars of Chen Fan''s relentless assault, its blood staining the ground, presenting a pitiable sight.

    On the day when the Violent Ape was hunting down Chen Fan, he had been a mere third-level martial artist. A sixth-level demon beast like the Blood-pupiled ck Python could have easily killed him if they crossed paths. However, fate had a way of turning the tables. The situation had now reversed.

    The Blood-pupiled ck Python fought its hardest, its huge body crushing countless trees in the surrounding area. Yet, it eventually sumbed to Chen Fan''s unyielding bombardment and copsed lifelessly on the ground.

    Chen Fan was full of smiles seeing the Blood-pupiled ck Python¡¯s corpse.

    The Blood-pupiled ck Python was a sixth-level demon beast. Its entire body was full of treasures. Its venomous fangs could be fashioned into weapons for stealthy attacks, capable of instantly killing those with lower cultivation.

    The snake-scaled leather could be made into a powerful protective soft armor, which was very popr among martial artists below the seventh level. Additionally, the snake gall could be used for detoxification.

    After harvesting all the valuable parts, Chen Fan dragged the massive python, weighing a thousand jin, towards the Violent Ape''s cave.

    The ground trembled lightly as he approached, indicating that the Violent Ape had sensed themotion outside and was charging out in a frenzied state.

    A fierce wind swept out from inside the cave. The Violent Ape charged out of itsir, its eyes the size of copper bells fixated on Chen Fan. Momentarily stunned, it let out a furious roar.

    The Violent Ape vividly remembered the thief who had stolen the Jade Lotus Flower it had guarded for so long. Now that Chen Fan had revealed himself, a flicker of surprise shed in the ape''s eyes.

    <i>Boom boom boom...</i>

    The Violent Ape pounded its chest crazily.

    Chen Fan rolled his eyes and shouted, ¡°Stop hammering, big guy. I¡¯m here to discuss something with you. Of course, you¡¯ll have to say yes even if you disagree.¡±

    He had stolen the Jade Lotus Flower from the Violent Ape and even used its pool to temper himself, so Chen Fan felt a sense of gratitude towards the ape. As such, Chen Fan didn¡¯t want to y the Violent Ape and upy its nest.

    ¡°Roar!¡± The Violent Ape roared at Chen Fan, seeminglyprehending his words.

    ¡°Forget it. Look what I¡¯ve got here,¡± Chen Fan waved his hand, unleashing thousands of jins of strength that propelled the Blood-pupiled ck Python''s corpse behind him into the air. With a loud thump, it crashed heavily onto the ground, raising ayer of dust.

    When the Violent Ape saw that corpse, its fur stood on end, resembling a rooster caught in an explosion. It emitted a low hiss from its throat.

    Its intellect wasn¡¯t low. The Blood-pupiled ck Python was its greatest enemy, and not even the ape itself could defeat the python. The ape could only defeat the python after consuming the Jade Lotus Flower and advancing to the next level. However, after Chen Fan had stolen the flower, it had be impossible for the ape to feast on the python.

    However, Chen Fan had in the Blood-pupiled ck Python and even harvested its skin. The human had in the Blood-pupiled ck Python the ape was helpless against. The human was so strong that he could kill it?

    Immediately, the Violent Ape¡¯s gaze turned cautious and apprehensive, afraid that Chen Fan would suddenly attack it.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not here to kill you. After all, I am a tiny bit indebted to you. I, Chen Fan, won¡¯t show mercy to my enemies, but I also don¡¯t kill indiscriminately. I¡¯ll naturally repay anyone if they show kindness to me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve already helped you get rid of your nemesis. Take it as me paying you back for taking the Jade Lotus Flower you were guarding, but I need to borrow the pool in your cave to cultivate,¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The Violent Ape let out a low cry, not showing any of the domineering attitude from before. It nodded, agreeing to Chen Fan¡¯s request.

    What could it possibly do except agree to it?

    Chen Fan smiled and stepped forth, walking into the cave.

    The Violent Ape looked at Chen Fan¡¯s back; a light shed in its eyes, seemingly thinking of something. A short momentter, it approached the Blood-pupiled ck Python¡¯s corpse and started devouring it.

    Chen Fan approached the pool at the end of the cave. He promptly removed his clothing and jumped into it. A stinging pain assaulted him, forcing Chen Fan to suck in cold air.

    The water in this pool was icy cold, making Chen Fan shiver. His lips turned a little purple from the cold, feeling the chill enter him through his pores, wanting to freeze his organs.

    The pool contained a mysterious energy, which also entered Chen Fan through his pores.

    Chen Fan felt as if countless ants were crazily biting him from head to toe. The stinging pain also carried a numbing sensation.

    The human body was a fragile thing. Even martial artists, despite absorbing the primeval qi of heaven and earth and strengthening their innate breath, constantly tempered their bodies to be stronger, still possessed rtively delicate bodies.

    During a battle, if their primeval qi was exhausted by an enemy''s attack, leaving them unprotected, a simple punch could break their body or even lead to their death.

    However, after bing Qi Grandmasters, martial artists could envelop themselves in protective qi, capable of withstanding sword shes and spear thrusts. However, they could still be easily killed if their protective qi was broken.

    Take the battle between Chen Fan and Liao Fan, for example. If Chen Fan''s Myriad Elephants Divine Art had not reached the thirdyer, facing Liao Fan''s sharp attacks would have resulted not only in a deep bloody wound but also in severed tendons and bones, perhaps even the loss of his limbs.

    So, for a martial artist, the importance of having a tough body was self-evident.

    However, physique cultivation was an extremely arduous path. Body cultivation had long declined since ancient times, so body cultivation techniques were scarce now.

    Nowadays, most martial artists couldn¡¯t endure the pain and suffering associated with body cultivation; therefore, they only focused on their qi cultivation. The higher their cultivation, the better they could protect themselves from harm.

    Chen Fan was only at the fifth level but could fight toe to toe against sixth-level martial artists. However, what could he do against those at the seventh, eighth, or even Qi Grandmaster and Yuanfu realms?

    If he could temper his body to be impervious to weapons and immune to elemental forces, his vitality would be incredibly tenacious, even if his cultivation level was slightly weaker.

    At that time, even if he stood in ce and allowed others to hack at him as they wished, they couldn¡¯t kill him. They would have no way of piercing his flesh, so how could they kill him then?

    Ancient body cultivators specialized in refining their bodies. Those experts were capable of feats like destroying a mountain with a single punch. They could easily kill qi cultivators with their bare hands.

    Although Chen Fan did not follow this path, he chose the even more challenging path of two-fold cultivation, refining his body and qi. While difficult, the benefits were undeniable.

    ¡°Absorb!¡±

    Chen Fan roared in his heart, absorbing the energy in the pool like a madman to temper his physique and make it even stronger.

    Four hourster, Chen Fan shook; it seemed like a trumpet had gone off inside him. A mighty oppressive force radiated from his being.

    This oppressive force didn¡¯t originate from his qi cultivation but from his flesh. His strong body wasparable to gold or iron.

    ¡°Thirdyerplete mastery!¡±

    A hint of disappointment shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He had not anticipated that the pool would be unable to propel his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fourthyer, only reachingplete mastery of the thirdyer.

    Chen Fan stood up and went to put on his clothing. He looked at the pool water that had be clear and translucent, no longer emitting a faint golden glow. He had absorbed all the energy from the pool that could effectively temper his physique.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to return to the sect.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled faintly and made his way toward the cave entrance.

 Chapter 22 â€“ Senior Disciple Sister in Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 22 ¨C Senior Disciple Sister in Trouble</h4>

    ¡°Roar.¡±

    As Chen Fan walked out, he noticed that the Violent Ape had already devoured the Blood-pupiled ck Python¡¯s corpse and sessfully advanced to the sixth level. The ape let out a low roar, baring its teeth, as if to convey that its level had increased and its strength had also greatly risen. It no longer feared Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan naturally noticed the Violent Ape¡¯s advancement. Demon beasts, like martial artists, could continuously improve their strength.

    However, demon beasts didn¡¯t know any cultivation techniques. They relied on their natural abilities to kill and devour other beasts, absorbing their blood''s vitality to advance themselves.

    ¡°All right, we¡¯re even now. Let¡¯s go our separate ways from now on. See you, big guy,¡± Chen Fan said carelessly, waving his hand and leaving.

    The Violent Ape rolled its eyes animatedly and rubbed its head. After thinking for a while, it decided to follow Chen Fan from afar, staying neither too close nor too far.

    Chen Fan soon noticed the Violent Ape trailing behind him. He stopped and turned around, looking at the Violent Ape. ¡°What are you following me for, big guy? Even if you''ve leveled up, you''re no match for me.¡±

    ¡°Roar, roar.¡±

    The Violent Ape let out two low roars. Chen Fan couldn''tprehend their meaning, disying a helpless expression.

    ¡°Don¡¯t follow me any longer. Or else, be careful. I¡¯ll beat you up,¡± Chen Fan said, waving his fist.

    The Violent Ape wasn¡¯t intimidated by him and continued following Chen Fan at a distance.

    ¡°What exactly do you want?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking displeased.

    Could it be that the Violent Ape was still thinking of killing and devouring him?

    ¡°Roar, roar...¡± The Violent Ape roared twice again; this time, he also tried hand gestures.

    ¡°You mean you want to follow me?¡± Chen Fan guessed doubtfully.

    ¡°Roar.¡±

    The Violent Ape hurriedly nodded like a little hen pecking at rice, its voice bing brighter. Chen Fan had guessed correctly.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°No can do. You¡¯re so big. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll be prey in others¡¯ eyes if you follow me back to the sect. You better return to where you came from and stop following me. Otherwise, I¡¯ll really make a move.¡±

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The Violent Ape shook its head, roaring. Surprisingly, its body, over three meters tall, began producing cracking noises. It then transformed into a snowy-white little monkey, measuring only around thirty centimeters in height.

    Gone was its savage and terrifying appearance, reced by an undeniable cuteness that couldn''t be surpassed.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    The snow-white monkey leaped in front of Chen Fan and cried out to assure him everything was fine.

    Chen Fan sized up the snow-white monkey in shock, his eyes full of disbelief.

    Was this adorable creature really that Violent Ape from before?

    Chen Fan had never heard of Violent Apes having this kind of ability.

    His mind raced as he recalled the absence of the typical beastly stench in the Violent Ape''s cave. He wondered if this Violent Ape possessed a special bloodline.

    If that were true, and it continued to grow stronger by his side, it would undoubtedly be a capable ally for him.

    ¡°Kiki,¡± the snow-white monkey cried again, seeing Chen Fan staring at it. Its voice carried a hint of urgency as if it feared Chen Fan would disagree.

    Chen Fan returned to his senses, smiled, and said, ¡°Alright, you¡¯ll follow me then. But don¡¯t you cause trouble for me.¡±

    ¡°Kiki...¡± The snow-white monkey danced in joy when it heard Chen Fan¡¯s words. It nodded profusely, its eyes unusually animated. Evidently, the monkey possessed a higher intellect than other demon beasts.

    <i>Swoosh</i>

    Immediately, the snow-white monkey jumped onto Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder like a white lightning sh.

    Chen Fan swept through the Qingyang Mountain Range crazily with the snow-white monkey in the following few days. The man and ape joined forces, ying numerous fifth and sixth-level demon beasts and even a newly advanced seventh-level demon beast.

    Chen Fan acquired a substantial amount of demon beast materials, which could be exchanged for at least fifty primeval stones. Meanwhile, the Violent Ape voraciously devoured their prey¡¯s corpses, rapidly increasing its strength and bing a seventh-level demon beast.

    Chen Fan couldn''t help but feel envious of the ape''s progress.

    The Violent Ape only needed to consume the essence of other demon beasts'' blood and flesh to quickly level up, while Chen Fan¡¯s progress was much slower. Although he had made some improvements, advancing from the early stage of the fifth level to the middle stage, it paled inparison.

    Chen Fan drank a few mouthfuls of water from the mountain spring and bathed in the stream. After changing into a set of clean clothing, he ascended to the peak of a small hill.

    The cool mountain breeze gently caressed him, bringing a sense of tranquility.

    Despite being only sixteen years old, Chen Fan possessed a tall figure, sharp eyebrows resembling a sword, spirited eyes, and long hair as ck as ink. He could be described as a handsome young man.

    Now that he could cultivate, he didn¡¯t have to act fearfully and listlessly as before. He was bursting with a youthful vigor. If he walked down the streets, perhaps he could attract the gazes of numerous young girls.

    After determining the directions, Chen Fan continued hurrying on his way. However, his brow furrowed as he heard a peal of savageughtering from a certain direction. Simultaneously, he could faintly hear cries for help.

    "There''s someone there," Chen Fan whispered to the snow-white monkey, gesturing for it to remain quiet. He cautiously made his way toward the source of the sounds.

    The closer he got, the louder the voices became. The savageughter rang loudly in the area.

    Chen Fan stealthily crept over, hiding behind a big stone, and looked over.

    In a clearing within the forest, three figures came into view: two men and one woman.

    The men were dressed in clothing adorned with patterns of mountains and rivers, which Chen Fan recognized as the uniform of the Mountain River Sect.

    Qingyang Mountain Range was vast, housing the Spring Autumn Sect and three other sects: the Burning Incense Valley, Floating Cloud Sword Sect, and the Mountain River Sect. These sects had a rivalry with one another, and their rtionships were far from amicable. Conflicts, including physical altercations, were not umon when disciples from the four sects encountered each other.

    The two men from the Mountain River Sect stood side by side, blocking Chen Fan''s view of the woman who had fallen and was now sitting on the ground.

    However, since she had gotten into a conflict with people from the Mountain River Sect, she was most likely someone from one of the three other sects.

    ¡°Haha! Little beauty, even the most virtuousdy will turn into a slut after inhaling my Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder. Let''s see how long you can resist.¡±

    Their wolfishughter resounded, filled withcency and obscenity.

    ¡°Young Master, we won¡¯t find many chicks as pretty as her back at our Mountain River Sect. Tsk, tsk, especially that long pair of legs. It¡¯ll definitely be enjoyable ying with those,¡± said someone, obviously a follower.

    Based on the voices, Chen Fan determined the purple-clothed man on his left was probably the young master, while the green-clothed man on the right was his servant or follower.

    However, Chen Fan sensed that the servant''s cultivation was even higher than that of the purple-clothed man, reaching the seventh level.

    The purple-clothed manughed and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. After this young master is done fooling around with her, you¡¯ll get your turn to have a taste.¡±

    ¡°Many thanks, Young Master,¡± the green-clothed man hurriedly thanked, his voice a little agitated.

    ¡°Ptooi! You two beasts! I wouldn¡¯t have fallen for your sneak attacks if I wasn¡¯t heavily injured.¡± A shaky voice rang out, seemingly desperately enduring something.

    ¡°Hm? Why does that voice sound somewhat familiar?¡±

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow, feeling like he had heard this voice before but couldn¡¯t recall when or where. <i>Could this woman be someone from our Spring Autumn Sect? I can¡¯t let those two beasts ruin her if that''s true.</i>

    Although that green-clothed man¡¯s cultivation was at the seventh level, and Chen Fan wasn¡¯t a match for them, he had the Violent Ape with him, so he wasn¡¯t afraid.

    ¡°Haha, little beauty, curse as much as you want. The more viciously you curse at us, the more excited this young master gets. I''ll make you feel so good that you''ll want to die, creating the most beautiful sounds in the world.¡± The purple-clothed manughed lewdly.

    The purple-clothed man shifted slightly to the side. From the tiny gap, Chen Fan saw the woman¡¯s face, and a surge of killing intent instantly erupted from him.

    ¡°Senior Sister!¡±

    The woman was none other than Qin Changkong''s daughter, Qin Yao.

 Chapter 23 - Let Them Come, Then!

    <h4>Chapter 23 - Let Them Come, Then!</h4>

    ¡°Senior Sister!¡±

    Chen Fan''s gaze turned icy cold when he saw the woman. She was none other than Qin Yao, Qin Changkong''s daughter.

    He noticed a trace of blood at the corner of Qin Yao''s lips, and her clothing appeared torn and tattered. He could see coagted blood on her injuries, indicating that she had been hurt for some time.

    Qin Yao¡¯s face was flushed red, her mouth spitting out hot air, and a trail of saliva was drooling from the corner of her lips. Her snow-white neck turned pink, and her gaze fluctuated between rity and confusion. Her slender, long legs were pressed together, wriggling uncontrobly, while her hands trembled as if she wanted to tear her clothes off.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Chen Fan''s eyes brimmed with tangible killing intent.

    Earlier, he had overheard the conversation between the two Mountain River Sect disciples, revealing that Qin Yao had been fed the Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder, a potent aphrodisiac. It could even affect Yuanfu realm experts, to say nothing of mere Qigong realm cultivators.

    ¡°Who is it!¡± shouted the man in green attire, swiftly turning around after sensing the sudden surge of icy cold killing intent in the air.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    However, he only heard something cutting through the wind fiercely. A streak of ck light darted toward the man in purple.

    ¡°Young Master, watch out!¡± shouted the man in green as he jumped in fright.

    His gaze shone with savagery, and his seventh-level cultivation erupted, forming a violent whirlwind and intercepting the light streak, slowing it down.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    With a shout, the green-clothed man chopped down at the light streak with his arm.

    He had already seen it clearly¡ªit was a ck iron arrow. The arrow¡¯s sharp tip shone with a chilling light, sending shivers down his spine.

    With a snap, the ck iron arrow was chopped into two by the green-clothed man and fell to the ground.

    <i>Swoosh.</i>

    However, simultaneously, a sharp sword light rushed toward the man in green.

    The man in green had a high cultivation level, so Chen Fan had shot the arrow toward the man in purple to distract him, as he knew that the green-clothed man would definitely jump in. Seizing this opportunity, Chen Fan nned to swiftly follow up and deliver a fatal blow to the man in green.

    ¡°Hm?¡±

    The icy cold sword light reflected in the green-clothed man''s eyes. The cold intent weighed heavily on him, and his pores clenched as he sensed an aura of death.

    However, being a seasoned individual, he quickly reacted and struck out with his palm.

    <i>Bam!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s sword strike crumbled from the green-clothed man¡¯s palm strike. He immediately stepped forward, forming a Vajra Seal and sending it flying toward the man in purple.

    Caught off guard, the purple-clothed man was sent flying, vomiting blood as he rolled on the ground, howling in agony.

    ¡°You wanna die!¡±

    The green-clothed man was enraged. His primeval qi erupted, and he formed a seal with his hands, striking out with a palm.

    The palm wind transformed into a ferocious tiger, carrying immense power as it hurtled towards Chen Fan.

    ¡°You¡¯re the ones looking to die! How dare you bully my Senior Sister! Break!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously; his expression twisted into a savage and horrifying visage. Terrifying killing intent surged from him as he sent out a palm seal, unexpectedly shattering the green-clothed man''s ferocious tiger seal with his Chakravarti Seal.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted coldly once more. His right hand moved, and a sword light shed like lightning, apanied by the resounding p of thunder. His sword shed toward the green-clothed man with incredible speed.

    ¡°Danger!¡±

    The green-clothed man had thought that he could get rid of that fifth-level Qigong brat with a single attack; unexpectedly, his Fierce Tiger Palm was shattered. The oue far exceeded his expectations.

    Sensing the force behind Chen Fan¡¯s sword strike, the green-clothed man¡¯s expression sank abruptly. The sword was enveloped in a deathly aura. His eyes narrowed, and he retreated quickly. ¡°He practices an upper-dirt tier martial skill!¡±

    ¡°Go to hell.¡±

    Chen Fan relentlessly pursued, his precious sword emitting a venomous snake-like light, relentlessly chasing down its prey. It seemed like it would never cease until it imed the green-clothed man''s life.

    ¡°Hmph, Golden Origin Palm, destroy it!¡± The green-clothed man swiftly distanced himself from Chen Fan, coldly sneering. Killing intent gleamed in his eyes as his palm radiated with golden light, exuding an overwhelming aura. He struck out his palm, and a golden palm seal sted out.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan chopped down at the golden palm seal with his sword. He immediately felt a violent force rushing towards him, making him tremble violently before he spat a mouthful of blood, his sword nearly flying out of his hand.

    The green-clothed man''s true strength erupted as he became serious. Chen Fan was clearly no match for him.

    Furthermore, the Golden Origin Palm he used was also an upper-dirt tier martial skill. The skill was so powerful that he had to use his seventh-level cultivation to use it properly. After all, it was powerful enough to send Chen Fan flying with one strike.

    ¡°Die, you little bastard. How dare you hurt our Young Master. I will peel your skin, rip out your tendons, and only let you die after you scream for three days and nights!¡± The green-clothed man stepped forward, fueled by the killing intent that surged within him. Chen Fan''s lightning-fast attack had momentarily suppressed him, but now that he had regained hisposure, he charged at Chen Fan with renewed vigor.

    The purple-clothed man held a significant position as the only son of an inner-sect Elder in the Mountain River Sect. Chen Fan¡¯s sneak attack had injured him heavily, and the green-clothed man knew he was bound to suffer upon returning to the sect. So, he must capture Chen Fan to give them an exnation.

    ¡°Hmph, anyone who bullies Senior Sister must die!¡± Chen Fan said with thick killing intent before throwing the snowy-white monkey at the green-clothed man.

    A mocking smile appeared on the green-clothed man''s lips. Could a mere monkey defeat him?

    However, his ridiculing smile froze in the next moment.

    The snowy-white monkey let out two cries of dissatisfaction in midair. It instantly transformed into a Violent Ape standing over three meters tall. Its ferocious aura swept towards him, suffocating him.

    <i>Bam!</i>

    The Violent Ape swung its massive hand toward the green-clothed man. The wind whistled sharply as its strike shattered the green-clothed man''s Golden Origin Palm seal. The smack also shattered the primeval qi around his fist and delivered a devastating blow.

    The green-clothed man screamed miserably. The bones in his fist and forearm shattered upon impact, creating a gruesome sight. He was then propelled backward by the tremendous force, staggering in retreat.

    A Violent Ape that had reached the seventh level of power wasparable to an eighth-level demon beast when it went berserk. Even in its calm state, its strength surpassed that of ordinary seventh-level Qigong martial artists.

    <i>Swoosh.</i>

    Amid this chaos, Chen Fan charged forward with his precious sword in hand, his gaze devoid of emotion, filled only with icy cold killing intent.

    ¡°No...!¡±

    The green-clothed man roared in terror.

    However, the cold, sharp sword light swiped across his neck without hesitation. His terrified cries ceased abruptly, and his head flew high before plummeting to the ground, rolling aimlessly.

    Chen Fan walked towards the purple-clothed man somberly next.

    He had severely injured this man with a palm strike but was still alive. He had been screaming on the ground. However, when he witnessed the decapitation of hispanion, his voice immediately fell silent, his eyes trembling with horror.

    ¡°If you dare touch even my finger, the Mountain River Sect will surely chase you to your death!¡± threatened the purple-clothed man in terror.

    ¡°Let theme, then!¡±

    "Let theme, then!" Chen Fan''s voice dripped with an iparable coldness. He mmed his palm down fiercely, obliterating the purple-clothed man''s skull, leaving no doubt about his demise.

 Chapter 24 - Drawing the Flames onto Himself

    <h4>Chapter 24 - Drawing the mes onto Himself</h4>

    ¡°Senior Sister, how are you feeling?¡±

    Chen Fan ignored his injuries and quickly ran to Qin Yao¡¯s side, asking anxiously.

    Qin Yao''s face turned as red as a monkey''s bottom, and she scratched herself all over, her clothing now looking like expensive rags.

    Lost in a state of lust, Qin Yao''s hazy eyes cleared slightly upon hearing someone call out to her. When she saw that it was Chen Fan, she trembled and said in a shaky voice, "Chen... Chen Fan..."

    However, her burning desire quickly engulfed that moment of rity, and she suddenly lunged toward Chen Fan.

    Her warm breath brushed the side of Chen Fan''s face, making him tremble. His heart raced, beating violently. A fiery light appeared in his eyes, his nostrils blowing out scorching hot air, and even his breathing quickened.

    Being only a sixteen-year-old youth, he was in the prime of his life. Moreover, he held a deep affection for his Senior Sister Qin Yao, whom he had always idolized as a goddess.

    With his goddess exhaling in his ear, he felt like he had been struck by lightning and that his heart would just melt away.

    ¡°Chen Fan, save me... can¡¯t...¡±

    Qin Yao seemedpletely drowned in her desires due to the effects of the Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder.

    Her hands incessantly tugged at Chen Fan''s clothes as she said, ¡°Take me... quick... I can¡¯t take it anymore...¡±

    As Qin Yao struggled to remove Chen Fan''s clothes, she cried out urgently.

    Countless thoughts shed by instantly in Chen Fan¡¯s mind. He took a deep breath and steeled his mind. His eyes became much clearer, with no impurity in them, and he pushed Qin Yao away. Gripping her wrists, he held her in ce and shouted, "Senior Sister, wake up!"

    If something happened between him and Qin Yao, how would he exin himself after she sobered up?

    How would he ever face Qin Changkong?

    Currently, Qin Yao wasn¡¯t thinking clearly and had no control over her actions due to the influence of the drug. Under such circumstances, it was all the more important that he didn¡¯t take advantage of her.

    Although Chen Fan didn¡¯t think he was a gentleman, he wouldn¡¯t act like scum who took advantage of others in their time of need.

    ¡°Chen... Chen... Fan, it¡¯s you... take me, quick. I beg you, take me, I can¡¯t take this anymore...¡±

    Qin Yao kept shaking her head, struggling.

    However, Chen Fan held her hands tightly in ce, preventing her from moving.

    ¡°No, it can¡¯t go on like this!¡±

    Chen Fan took a deep breath.

    Qin Yao had lost it. Chen Fan only had two options now: He had to expel the drug from her body or allow her to experience the union of Yin and Yang. Otherwise, the explosive energy within her would kill her.

    ¡°Senior Sister, I¡¯m sorry!¡±

    Chen Fan''s gaze shone as he gritted his teeth and lifted Qin Yao in a princess carry. Channeling his primeval energy to his feet, he dashed toward the valley stream.

    Qin Yao was burning up like a furnace, her skin hot and flushed. They needed to find a rtively cold ce to ease the scorching heat; that might help Qin Yao sober up a little.

    Soon, Chen Fan arrived at the valley stream carrying Qin Yao and immediately jumped into the water. A refreshing coolness enveloped him, swiftly dissipating the heat that had consumed his heart due to Qin Yao''s condition.

    Chen Fan pushed Qin Yao into the water, hoping that the cold stream water would help Qin Yao sober up. Simultaneously, he pressed her back, channeling his primeval qi and attempting to expel the effects of the drug.

    However, the Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder was extremely potent, so even Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi failed to do a thing.

    Moreover, Qin Yao wasn¡¯t showing any signs of sobering up despite being soaked in the cold stream water. Her eyes blurred like the water, and she clung to Chen Fan like an octopus.

    ¡°Wake up, Senior Sister. Don¡¯t let your desires consume your rationality!¡± Chen Fan shouted, gripping Qin Yao''s shoulders tightly.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I can¡¯t hold on anymore...¡± " Qin Yao''s voice trembled with a sob. She momentarily regained some rity from Chen Fan''s calls but was quickly consumed by her desires again.

    ¡°What do I do? What should I do?¡±

    Seeing Qin Yao hug him again, Chen Fan grew anxious like an ant on a hot pan. <i>Must I resort to that method?</i>

    ¡°Right, the Heaven Seizing Art! If it can plunder the talents of martial artists, it should be able to extract the drug''s effects from Senior Sister!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze focused. He decided to use the Heaven Seizing Art to absorb the drug, willingly subjecting himself to the mes of desire.

    He believed he could surely endure it with his firm will.

    Moreover, he had no other solutions besides taking advantage of Qin Yao¡¯s predicament and...

    ¡°I don¡¯t care anymore. Absorb!¡± Chen Fan gritted his teeth. He had no time to think. If this continued, Qin Yao would die due to the drug.

    He activated the Heaven Seizing Art; immediately, a terrifying suction materialized, drawing the effects of the Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder into Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind shook when the Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire¡¯s power entered him. Countless inappropriate images came up in his mind, his abdomen growing hotter.

    Chen Fan clenched his teeth tightly, chanting the Tranquility Mantra in his heart, steadfastly holding onto his resolve and continuing to absorb the drug from Qin Yao.

    Qin Yao quickly cooled down as the drug''s power flowed into Chen Fan, and her struggles weakened. Her blurred eyes also started bing clearer.

    Chen Fan¡¯s vision was now hazy. His mouth and nose exhaled scorching hot air, and his cheeks flushed red like fire.

    The Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder was too potent. Even Chen Fan¡¯s strong will had difficulty keeping his mind clear under the influence of his desires.

    Unspeakable images kept popping up in his head, and seeing Qin Yao in front of him, his eyes nearly breathed fire.

    ¡°No, I can do it. I must endure and not sumb to my desires!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously in his heart. He suddenly bit the tip of his tongue, the intense pain clearing his mind a little.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡±

    Qin Yao finally sobered up. She looked at Chen Fan and realized that he had absorbed the drug''s effects.

    ¡°Chen Fan, no! Why did you do that!¡±

    Chen Fan had absorbed all of the drug¡¯s power. He reassured her with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m fine, Senior Sister. I can take this¡ª¡±

    His eyes had suddenly turned red, his mind losing control.

    He grabbed Qin Yao and pulled her closer, tearing her clothing crazily like a wild beast, his breath heavy and erratic.

    ¡°Don¡¯t, Chen Fan, wake up!¡±

    Qin Yao mustered her strength to struggle free. Although her cultivation level was much higher than his, she was weak from having endured the drug¡¯s torment for so long.

    <i>Rip, rip...</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s desire soon consumed his rationality. He only wanted one thing now: To vent his desires.

    ¡°Don¡¯t, Chen Fan, I beg you, don¡¯t. Sob...¡± pleaded Qin Yao as Chen Fan ripped her clothes. Beads of tears rolled down the corners of her eyes as she failed to persuade him.

    Was it inevitable, after all?

    ¡°Senior... Senior Sister...¡±

    As Qin Yao''s sobbing pleas reached his ears, a glimmer of rationality flickered within the wild beast-like Chen Fan.

    His movements halted abruptly, and he pushed Qin Yao away forcefully and shouted, "Go, Senior Sister, leave quickly!"

 Chapter 25 - Qin Yaoâ€™s Decision

    <h4>Chapter 25 - Qin Yao¡¯s Decision</h4>

    ¡°Leave, Senior Sister! Quickly leave!¡±

    Chen Fan roared, his voice hoarse.

    He had overestimated his willpower and underestimated the potency of the Heavenly Lust Deadly Desire Powder.

    This aphrodisiac could even lead Yuanfu realm experts into depravity, let alone him.

    He felt like a ball of fire was burning in his abdomen, growing hotter with each passing moment. Blurry images of man and woman entangled together constantly shed in his mind.

    "Quickly leave, Senior Sister! Get out of here, right now!" Chen Fan roared. He feared that if Qin Yao stayed any longer, he would sumb to his desires and end up hurting her.

    "I can... I can make it! Get lost, all of you!"

    Chen Fan incessantly scratched himself, leaving bloody marks all over. He gritted his teeth tightly, and they seemed close to shattering; fresh blood oozed from his gums.

    Chen Fan exhaled like a bull, hot air exiting his nostrils. The blood vessels on his forehead, neck, and the back of his hands bulged, his face contorted in a savage expression. He seemed very ufortable and in pain.

    Desperately clinging to hisst shred of rationality, he refused to be defeated by his desires, roaring like a madman.

    Qin Yao managed to climb up to the shore. Through her tear-blurred vision, she looked at the maniacal Chen Fan and said, "Chen Fan..."

    ¡°Leave, Senior Sister. Quickly leave, I can¡¯t hold on any longer. Go, get lost...¡±

    Chen Fan roared fiercely.

    He rushed up to a reef and kept smashing it with his hands, bombarding it wildly without any care for himself. The blows tore his skin and cut his flesh; he began bleeding.

    ¡°Ah...!¡±

    Chen Fan roared at the top of his lungs as he continued hitting the reef. He hoped that this method would help him regain sobriety, strengthening his resolve to maintain rity and resist being ovee by his desires.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡± Qin Yao felt like her heart was being wrung as she watched it from the shore.

    She should have been the one burning in those mes of desire, but Chen Fan had taken all that pain onto himself.

    He could have taken advantage of the situation and taken her innocence, absolving himself of any me once they woke up, as he would be saving her.

    Yet, Chen Fan had chosen not to do that; instead, he absorbed the drug¡¯s effects. He had willingly epted the suffering on her behalf to protect her innocence.

    Qin Yao''s gaze transformed, filled with determination now. She moved her hands, removing her torn and disheveled dress to expose her snow-white shoulders.

    As her tattered dress slipped off, her exquisite figure, akin to white suet jade, was revealed, bing the most beautiful sight in the world.

    ¡°If you can bear the mes of desire for me, then I can also descend into depravity for you...¡±

    Qin Yao raised her head slightly and closed her eyes, crystalline tear drops rolling off from the corner of her eyes. When she reopened her eyes, her gaze had a firm resolution.

    She jumped back into the stream like a spirit and walked toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Chen Fan.¡±

    Chen Fan turned around and was immediately stunned when he saw her figure.

    ¡°Don¡¯t, Senior Sister, quickly leave. Don¡¯t...¡± Chen Fan shook his head violently. However, his breathing grew heavier and hotter by the second.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I¡¯m doing this willingly.¡±

    Qin Yao didn¡¯t leave. She had already made up her mind. If she left, then what would happen to Chen Fan?

    ¡°Come.¡±

    Her voice echoed in his ears like a gentle whisper, and Qin Yao took the initiative to jump at him.

    Thest shred of rationality that Chen Fan desperately clung to crumbled instantly; desire consumed him.

    A gold hairpin held her cloud-like hair, and her face radiated beauty. They spent the night under the warmth of a hibiscus canopy. [1]

    In a cave, they quickly sumbed to a fiery and enchanting state.

    Time passed swiftly, and several hourster, everything returned to calm. Inside the cave, Chen Fan gazed at Qin Yao, asleep in his embrace, his expressionplex.

    He had thought he could endure the pain of the mes of desire; ultimately, he had overestimated himself and failed.

    However, it could be said that Qin Yao taking the initiative was the final straw.

    ¡°Senior Sister...¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s pretty face looked calm, her breathing even. A faint blush adorned her fairplexion.

    Chen Fan focused his gaze on the beauty capable of bringing cities and nations to ruin in front of him, a tender expression on his face.

    Which young man remained unaffected by love, and which young girl didn''t long for it?

    Qin Yao possessed captivating beauty, with a tall and alluring figure, particrly her long legs that exuded a wild charm. Countless people worshiped her as their goddess in the entire outer sect.

    Logically speaking, one would expect Qin Yao to have a spicy personality that matched her temperament. However, her personality was warm, kind, and gentle,cking the expected spiciness and sassiness.

    Naturally, Chen Fan did feel some adoration for Qin Yao.

    However, in the past, he was considered a martial arts trash with a blocked dantian and meridians, feeling immensely inferior. Every time he saw Qin Yao, he would be at a loss for words, concealing his affection for her deep within his heart.

    But now, that beautyy in his embrace. Chen Fan wondered if this was a dream. She was the first woman in his life and his goddess.

    However, despite the circumstances, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t happy. Their rtionship wasn¡¯t one of mutual consent but rather a twist of fate that brought them to this situation.

    Chen Fan sighed after a while.

    Since no one could change the past, he decided to protect Qin Yao and keep her safe in the future. No one was allowed to hurt his woman!

    Gently covering Qin Yao with his shirt, Chen Fan changed into a fresh set of clothes and slowly stood up, leaving the cave.

    ¡°I have actually advanced to thete stage of the fifth level after our intimate act.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled bitterly and shook his head. He had heard of a dual cultivation method where men and women engaged in intercourse to enhance their cultivation.

    However, his cultivation breakthrough was not a result of practicing that method but rather a natural progression during their union.

    ¡°Forget it, don¡¯t overthink this. Time to practice!¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and started practicing his martial skill.

    Inside the cave, Qin Yao¡¯s long eyshes fluttered. She opened her eyes immediately, with tears rolling down her cheeks.

    She gazed at the cave roof for a long time before sighing.

    In the end, it still happened.

    At the very least, the other party was Chen Fan, not those two people from the Mountain River Sect. Thinking of this, Qin Yao felt a sense of relief.

    Slowly sitting up, she retrieved a new dress from her storage pouch and put it on before leaving the cave.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    After Chen Fan had finished practicing the martial skill, the snowy-white monkey appeared out of nowhere, its lips slightly raised and its eyes shining as if it knew what had happenedst night.

    ¡°Go away, damn monkey!¡±

    Chen Fan became angry at being mocked by the monkey and sent a palm toward it.

    The snowy-white monkey jumped in fright and hurriedly dodged. It straightened itself and screeched in dissatisfaction. It screeched again and quickly ran toward the cave entrance.

    Chen Fan turned around and saw Qin Yao standing by the cave entrance. The snowy-white monkey had jumped into her embrace, looking at her with its cute eyes. Its lovely appearance was especially devastating.

    However, what truly infuriated Chen Fan was that the monkey''s paw rested on Qin Yao''s chest.

    Even more frustrating was the fact that Qin Yao seemed oblivious to it, holding up the snowy-white monkey with one arm and gently caressing its head with her other hand

    Meanwhile, this damned lecherous monkey was enjoying the attention.

    It was so infuriating!

    1. A line from ¡®éLºÞ¸è¡¯, The Song of Evesting Regret, a poem written by Bai Juyi from the Tang Dynasty in 806 AD, which depicts the tragedy between Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and Imperial Consort Yang ?

 Chapter 26 - Return to Sect

    <h4>Chapter 26 - Return to Sect</h4>

    ¡°Se-Senior Sister.¡±

    Chen Fan only managed to utter those two words despite exerting all this strength. His gaze toward Qin Yao was slightly evasive, unsure of what to say.

    Qin Yao had forced her heart to calm down, but when she heard Chen Fan, her heartbeat sped up again.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t know how to face her, and she was also in a simr situation.

    They had shared a bedst night, but they were just victims of circumstance; no love was involved. Now that the two were sober, they felt awkward.

    ¡°I...¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s heart beat anxiously as she struggled to think of something.

    <i>Tell Chen Fan to forget about what happened before?</i>

    <i>Tell Chen Fan that she did it to save his life and that he shouldn''t dwell on it too much?</i>

    Chen Fan was also confused.

    Almost simultaneously, the two raised their heads and locked eyes. Both of them trembled and immediately looked away, their faces flushed.

    ¡°Is it your pet?¡±

    Qin Yao tried to regain herposure. Spotting the snowy-white monkey in her arms, she found the words to break the awkward atmosphere.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    When the monkey heard Qin Yao calling it ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s pet,¡± it cried out in protest, unhappy.

    ¡°Mhm, it¡¯s a little bit of a glutton,¡± said Chen Fan.

    Since Qin Yao had taken the initiative to change the subject, Chen Fan also calmed his wildly beating heart down. The awkwardness had subsided, at least to some extent.

    ¡°Kiki.¡± Beingbeled a glutton dissatisfied the snowy-white monkey even more. It screeched at Chen Fan, baring its teeth.

    ¡°It¡¯s so cute.¡±

    Qin Yao seemed to like the snowy-white monkey, constantly caressing its head. She suddenly raised her head and asked, ¡°What¡¯s its name?¡±

    ¡°Ugh... it doesn¡¯t have a name.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we call him Xiaobai then? Since it¡¯spletely white, it suits him perfectly.¡± [1]

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    The two engaged in conversation, seemingly having forgotten all that happened earlier.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡±

    ¡°Senior Sister, I...¡±

    At some point, their thoughts aligned, and they spoke up simultaneously but quickly stopped, falling back into silence.

    ¡°Senior Sister, I¡ª¡± Chen Fan took the initiative to speak again but was interrupted by Qin Yao.

    ¡°There''s no need to say anything more, Chen Fan. Let''s pretend that nothing happened. It was just a dream. Alright, take Xiaobai. I''ll be returning to the sect first. Don''t follow me.¡±

    It seemed like Qin Yao had truly forgotten everything as she calmly looked at Chen Fan. She handed Xiaobai to Chen Fan, turned around, and left.

    Chen Fan chuckled bitterly as he watched Qin Yao leave. When he heard Xiaobai¡¯s familiarughter, he tossed him out and shouted, ¡°Go follow Senior Sister and keep her safe. I''ll skin you alive if she loses even a single hair.¡±

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    Xiaobai screeched twice in dissatisfaction and made faces at Chen Fan. Then, looking like a streak of white light, he swiftly jumped into Qin Yao''s arms, elicitingughter from her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Senior Sister. I will take responsibility for you!¡± Chen Fan dered, his eyes gleaming with determination.

    ......

    Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s outer sect:

    Noon marked the time for the monthly allocation of resources. The za of the outer sect was bustling with activity, filled with disciples receiving their share of primeval stones and hurrying back to cultivate. They needed to make the most of the remaining half month to enhance their cultivation and perform well at the Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    The spacious za was crowded with people. Many disciples had set up stalls here to hawk their wares.

    These wares included cultivation techniques, martial skills, elixirs, weapons, and even precious heavenly treasures.

    Themon currency used for transactions was primeval stones.

    Even these hawkers were going all-out to perform better at the Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    The disciples hoped to obtain greater rewards after performing well at the Outer Sect Grand Competition by selling these items in exchange for primeval stones and using them to cultivate.

    Over a hundred stalls were set up, each attracting a crowd.

    ¡°How much are you selling this precious sword for?¡±

    ¡°How many primeval stones for these five Purple Spirit Fruits?

    ¡°...¡±

    The stalls were filled with bargaining noises, creating a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a bustling market.

    A teenager strolled along the mountain trail and arrived at the outer sect za with unhurried steps.

    He appeared to be around sixteen or seventeen years old, with a clean and handsome face exuding an extraordinary aura. A faint smile graced his lips, radiating confidence and a noble temperament.

    This teenager was none other than Chen Fan.

    Now that he was back in the sect, he wanted to sell his harvest from the past two months in the outer sect za to earn primeval stones.

    His cultivation had already reached the peak of the fifth level, just one step away from the sixth level. At the sixth level, his actualbat strength would be on par with seventh-level Qigong experts, allowing him to secure a spot among the top 100 in the Outer Sect Grand Competition and earn generous rewards.

    However, advancing his cultivation became increasingly difficult due to his dantian being ten timesrger than others and his primeval qi being exceptionally thick and robust. The amount of primeval qi required was substantial and would only increase as his cultivation progressed.

    Chen Fan expected he would need forty to fifty primeval stones to advance to the sixth level of Qigong. However, he only had a dozen or so pieces with him currently, short by more than half.

    However, obtaining primeval stones was a rtively easy task for him. He obtained many treasures from killing Liao Fan and the two Mountain River Sect disciples. While some were useless to him, other martial artists would definitely find a use for them.

    People continually entered and left the za, but they all seemed shocked when they saw Chen Fan.

    The current Chen Fan exuded a calm demeanor with a touch of carefreeness. There was no trace of the fear and cowardice that had gued him in the past. It was as if he had been reborn as apletely different person.

    However, they weren¡¯t surprised by Chen Fan¡¯s temperament. What surprised them was the fact that he had returned to the sect alive.

    How was that possible?

    Everyone in the entire outer sect knew Liao Fan was aiming for his life. Liao Fan had even offered a reward for anyone who could find Chen Fan in the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    Despite escaping to the Qingyang Mountain Range, everyone believed that death was the only oue for Chen Fan.

    Unexpectedly, Chen Fan had returned safe and sound, with a newfound confidence and stability. It was simply unbelievable.

    ¡°This trash is actually alive. How is that possible?¡±

    "Perhaps he hid himself in some remote cave as soon as he entered the Qingyang Mountain Range, making it impossible for anyone to find him."

    ¡°How audacious of him toe back to the sect. Hurry up and go inform Senior Brother Liao Fan.¡±

    The crowd immediately began whispering among themselves.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s temperament had changedpletely, the others still saw him as the weak and worthless person he used to be.

    <i>Looks like they still have no idea Liao Fan is dead. </i>Chen Fan thought, sweeping his gaze at the crowd.

    It made sense.

    His reputation as ¡°martial arts trash¡± was carved too deeply into the minds of others. Although he had done something shocking, killing Liao Feng and his gang, he couldn¡¯t shake off people''s negative impression of him.

    Furthermore, even if they knew Liao Fan was dead, they would never think Chen Fan was the culprit. Instead, they woulde up with various excuses, such as Liao Fan encountering powerful demon beasts while searching for him or simply chalking it up to bad luck.

    ¡°That¡¯s good, too. Watch me shine so brightly at the Outer Sect Grand Competition that your dog eyes will go blind!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly inside.

    At the Outer Sect Grand Competition, he would show these people who the real trash was.

    1. Xiao Bai literally means Little White, and I will be changing Xiaobai¡¯s pronoun from it to him since he¡¯s named ?

 Chapter 27 - Three Tigers of the Outer Sect

    <h4>Chapter 27 - Three Tigers of the Outer Sect</h4>

    Chen Fan paid no heed to the onlookers, focused solely on his business. He reached a corner of the za, unfurled a piece of fabric, and disyed his wares for sale.

    ¡°Tch, what goods can that trash be selling?¡±

    Several outer sect disciples immediately began to mock him

    Those who came to hawk their goods were all at the fifth or sixth level of Qigong, not the best but definitely not the worst, with much to spare, in fact.

    Hoping to make it into the top 100, they had brought out goods that they wouldn¡¯t use in the near future to exchange them for primeval stones or sell their spiritual herbs to purchase suitable weapons.

    In their eyes, Chen Fan was nothing more than a nobody, and someone of his caliber peddling his wares wouldn''t win him any respect.

    However, they were left speechless when they took a closer look at the items Chen Fan had disyed. It was as if they had been struck by lightning, overwhelmed with shock.

    ¡°This... this is...¡±

    A disciple standing close by had a face full of astonishment, his eyes like saucers. He cried out loud from the shock, unable to speak properly.

    His outburst immediately drew the attention of the surrounding people.

    Suddenly, everyone was too stunned to utter a word.

    Soon, news of Chen Fan selling treasures in the za spread.

    Those who heard the news initially felt disdain, but when they witnessed arge crowd rushing in that direction, they couldn''t help but follow along. Within a short period, a multitude of people had gathered in front of Chen Fan''s stall. The atmosphere was vibrant and lively, with over a hundred individuals present.

    ¡°Heavens! That¡¯s actually the scaly leather of a Blood-pupiled ck Python!¡±

    ¡°My god, Blood-pupiled ck Pythons are sixth-level demon beasts, and their scaly leather is iparably tough, a good material for making soft armor.¡±

    ¡°A soft armor forged using Blood-pupiled ck Python¡¯s scaly leather and some meteoric iron and fine iron could withstand a blow from seventh-level Qigong experts. It could save your life during crucial moments!¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s also middle-dirt tier martial skills and cultivation techniques.¡±

    ¡°And storage pouches, too! He even brought out three of them!"

    The crowd let out gasps of exmation from time to time.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t have many wares at his stall, but their qualities were extremely high.

    The Blood-pupiled ck Python¡¯s scaly leather was fifty feet long and ten feet wide when spread open, each scale about the size of a palm, emitting a metallic luster akin to steel and gleaming with a cold light.

    The few lower- and middle-tier martial skills and cultivation techniques were very attractive to the fifth- and sixth-level martial artists.

    After all, they couldn¡¯t enter the Martial Arts Pavilion¡¯s third floor before advancing to the seventh level to pick dirt tier martial arts. Also, learning another middle-dirt tier martial skill would bolster their strength slightly.

    The three storage pouches were also rare goods.

    A storage pouch would allow one to store more loot when they entered Qingyang Mountain Range to hunt demon beasts, eliminating the need to carry excessive baggage.

    As for therge bow and the few iron arrows, they were particrly enticing to martial artists specializing in archery.

    ¡°Say, how do you think this trash obtained all these treasures?¡±

    A sharp-tongued, monkey-faced disciple asked with a smirk, looking at Chen Fan disdainfully. He didn¡¯t believe that all these goods belonged to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Stroke of luck, I say. He must have stumbled upon some remains in the Qingyang Mountain Range and picked up some good items.¡±

    Someone immediately replied, eyes green with jealousy.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. This trash is really lucky. He hid in the Qingyang Mountain Range to save his life and even managed to strike it big. How annoying. Why don¡¯t I have this kind of good luck?¡±

    Sounds of jealousy rang out one after another.

    They didn¡¯t think these items belonged to Chen Fan at all. They believed he must have discovered relics inside some hidden cave.

    After all, martial arts trash could never obtain such treasures solely through their efforts.

    Chen Fan smiled faintly upon hearing the discussions, not taking them to heart.

    He knew that the innocent would eventually prove their innocence, and the corrupt would reveal their true colors in due time. He did have to exin anything; it would be meaningless.

    ¡°Move away if you¡¯re not buying; don¡¯t hinder my business,¡± Chen Fan looked up and shouted coldly.

    People like them were crowding his shop, merely window shopping. Their presence prevented those genuinely interested in buying his goods from approaching. It was a waste of his time.

    He wanted to sell off his wares quickly and go back to practicing.

    However, these people refused to budge.

    Greed rose in many people¡¯s hearts, seeing the Blood-pupiled ck Python¡¯s leather and the other goods. They were like a group of hungry wolves. Greedy looks showed on their faces, wanting to rob them by force.

    There weren¡¯t too many rules in the outer sect; everything was decided with strength.

    Chen Fan swept his gaze coldly across these people. If they dared to make a move, he would teach them the meaning of the word consequence.

    <i>Wola.</i>

    Suddenly, moring noises came from outside the crowd. Apanied by an incredibly arrogant voice, three youths with imposing figures made their way through, forcefully pushing aside the other disciples.

    ¡°Get lost, all of you. Get lost to the side!¡±

    This action earned them the ire of the crowd, who looked at them with furious gazes.

    However, as soon as the onlookers got a good look at their faces, they immediately became meek and submissive. They lowered their heads and even cleared a path for the trio.

    ¡°Damn it, why are the three tigers of the outer sect here? These three guys are fierce, cruel, and unreasonable. Anyone who messes with them won¡¯t end up well.¡±

    ¡°A good show ising up. I didn¡¯t expect him to attract even the three tigers here. Looks like that trash is going to have his treasures taken away.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? These three guys have often snatched the treasures of those weaker than them. This trash dared to set up a stall here openly; he¡¯s obviously asking to be robbed.¡±

    ¡°The three tigers of the outer sect are unruly and overbearing. Few dare to mess with them, and they have strong foundations. I heard their boss, Zhao Hu, is at the sixth level, and the numbers two and three have reached the peak of the fifth level.¡±

    People began discussing in whispers, gloating about what was about to happen.

    Chen Fan naturally saw those three as well, narrowing his eyes.

    These three men were a notorious group of bullies in the outer sect, known as the three tigers of the outer sect. They relied on their strength andmitted many atrocities, bullying many people.

    The three tigers weren¡¯t biological brothers.

    However, due to their shared character "Hu" in their names and simr interests, they hade together and be sworn brothers, using their strength to bully the weak in the outer sect and rob others of their possessions. [1]

    The three tigersughed out loud proudly upon hearing the discussions about them and the fear contained in their voices.

    Theirughter was grating to the ears, fully disying their arrogance and tyranny.

    The three came up to Chen Fan¡¯s stall.

    ¡°How very daring of you, Trash. You dared to steal our storage pouches while we were sleeping. You even had the nerve to sell our belongings here in the za? Are you tired of living?¡± Zhao Hu''s voice boomed, his eyes filled with burning greed as he red at Chen Fan, a ferocious light shining in his gaze.

    1. ¡®»¢¡¯ or Hu means tiger ?

 Chapter 28 - Taking Action

    <h4>Chapter 28 - Taking Action</h4>

    Zhao Hu¡¯s arrogant statement actually surprised everyone present. After all, they were ustomed to the tree tigers just taking whatever they wanted. Hearing them make an excuse, albeit a feeble one, in their attempt to seize Chen Fan''s belongings was a first for them.

    ¡°It must be because this trash Chen Fan has some ties with Elder Qin. That¡¯s why the three tigers made such a lousy excuse.¡±

    The crowd spected among themselves.

    ¡°Yours?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly at Zhao Hu¡¯s im.

    ¡°Nonsense. If these items don''t belong to me, do they belong to trash like you?¡± Zhao Hu retorted, his voice filled with disdain.

    If it weren¡¯t for Chen Fan''s connections with Qin Changkong, he wouldn¡¯t have wasted his time talking to him and directly snatched the items by force instead.

    The three brothers were notorious for their bullying within the outer sect. To Zhao Hu, conversing with someone he considered trash was nothing short of a humiliation.

    ¡°Your daddy can¡¯t be bothered talking to you. On ount of Elder Qin¡¯s face, we¡¯ll take back everything here. Also...¡±

    He looked at Chen Fan, grinning evilly. ¡°You have to take out another 100 primeval stones aspensation, and I won''t pursue the matter of a lowly trash like you stealing our storage pouches.¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said indifferently, ¡°I don¡¯t have primeval stones.¡±

    ¡°Bullshit!¡±

    Zhao Hu cursed out loud. With a savage smile, he said, ¡°You think your daddy here is stupid? You have been receiving primeval stone for thest three years. That¡¯s 108 pieces in total. Your daddy here is only asking you topensate with 100 of them, and that''s already showing you kindness. You better know what''s good for you, Trash.¡±

    ¡°Looks like you¡¯re set on extorting me,¡± Chen Fan smiled abruptly.

    ¡°Extorting you?¡±

    Zhao Hu scoffed disdainfully and said, ¡°Stop with the nonsense. Hurry up and hand over the primeval stones. I¡¯ll kill you otherwise!¡±

    Zhao Hu crouched and began packing the Blood-pupiled ck Python leather and the other items. He acted like these items really belonged to him.

    The surrounding outer sect disciples'' expressions sank, filled with indignation, jealousy, and other negative emotions.

    They knew that with Zhao Hu and his gang snatching those items, the trio¡¯s cultivation would greatly improve, allowing them to shine in the Outer Sect Grand Competition and earn rewards from the sect.

    This would further increase their strength; eventually, it would be their turn to be oppressed when the three tigers bullied others in the outer sect.

    ¡°Put it down!¡± A cold voice suddenly rang out.

    Zhao Hu was taken aback, his hands freezing in their movements. He looked up and saw Chen Fan with a cold expression. Laughing fiercely, he taunted, ¡°Trash, you¡¯re telling me to put them down? Don¡¯t you know that killing you is easier than crushing an ant for me?¡±

    Laughter erupted from the surrounding crowd.

    ¡°Zhao Hu is right. If he wants to crush an ant, he still has to get down on the floor and look carefully; it¡¯s really not easy. But this trash is so big. He wouldn¡¯t need to look around at all. It¡¯s indeed much easier than crushing an ant.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that. Comparing an ant with this trash will make the ant unhappy.¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t mind the mockery from the people around him. His icy cold gaze met Zhao Hu¡¯s squarely, and he said coldly, ¡°I¡¯ll say this once more. Put it down! Otherwise, I¡¯ll break whichever hand you use to take what¡¯s mine!¡±

    An instant silence fell over the area.

    Everyone looked at Chen Fan like they were looking at an idiot, unable toprehend where he found the audacity to make such a bold statement.

    Gloating expressions immediately appeared in their eyes, eagerly anticipating Zhao Hu''s explosive reaction.

    ¡°Don¡¯t kill him now, Zhao Hu. Senior Brother Liao Fan said he wanted to kill him personally. Senior Brother Liao Fan wouldn¡¯t let you off if you killed him today. Don¡¯t forget that he¡¯s a member of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance.¡±

    Someone in the crowd reminded,ughing.

    ¡°Heh, heh, of course, I won¡¯t kill him. Didn¡¯t Liao Fan put up a bounty worth fifty primeval stones? I¡¯ll cripple his limbs and then go im them from Liao Fan. Make full use of everything he¡¯s worth,¡± said Zhao Hu as he slowly stood up, emanating a fierce aura.

    ¡°Big Brother, taking care of trash like him doesn¡¯t need you to move personally. I¡¯ll do it!¡± said a ck-clothed youth standing behind Zhao Hu, smiling coldly.

    He stepped forward, his peak stage fifth level aura erupting, creating a powerful gust of wind that forced the surrounding crowd to retreat in shock.

    ¡°So strong! The number three, Wang Hu, is also about to advance to the sixth level. After robbing Chen Fan, the three brothers¡¯ cultivations would all improve greatly.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? With sixth-level Qigong cultivation, they can enter the top 100 of the Outer Sect Grand Competition and obtain many rewards. Cultivation technique, martial skills, elixirs, weapons, and more.¡±

    ¡°If these three guys¡¯ cultivations were to increase a step further, I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ll act even more unruly in the outer sect in the future.¡±

    The number three, Wang Hu, heard the people¡¯s discussion and felt smug inside. The three tigers¡¯ notoriety struck fear into many.

    ¡°Trash, you have been acting quite arroganttely. Not only did you kill Liao Feng, but you also dared to speak out in front of us, the three tigers. You show us no regard. Hehe, I¡¯ll cripple your limbs and have you wailing for mercy under my feet like a dog.¡±

    Wang Hu smiled fiercely and threw a punch at Chen Fan.

    This punch only had seventy percent of his strength, so about 5,000 jin heavy. He could already predict how Chen Fan would end up.

    Chen Fan stood in ce, not moving from his spot, watching as Wang Hu¡¯s fist flew at him. The air shook, sending his clothing fluttering and his long hair dancing wildly.

    "This trash is terrified," the onlookers sneered coldly, assuming Chen Fan was moving because he was scared in the face of Wang Hu''s threatening punch.

    However, when Wang Hu¡¯s iron fist was about tond on Chen Fan, a streak of light shone in his eyes.

    Chen Fan moved.

    His right hand transformed into a lightning-fast blur and, with a resounding smack, caught Wang Hu''s iing fist.

    ¡°Three tigers of the outer sect?¡±

    Chen Fan stared coldly at the astonished Wang Hu and said coldly, ¡°Today, I¡¯ll turn you into the three trashes of the outer sect!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    Wang Hu flew into a rage immediately when he heard this. Primeval qi trembled outside his fist, wanting to shatter Chen Fan¡¯s hand, but...

    <i>Snap!</i>

    ¡°Ow!¡±

    Chen Fan exerted strength in his palm, and his domineering strength broke Wang Hu¡¯s primeval qi, crushing his fist into bits. His whole hand turned into a mush of meat, and his bones shattered.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    A smack, fast as lightning, struck Wang Hu¡¯s head. His miserable scream stopped abruptly, and he felt like his head had shattered from the smack; he fell. With a loud rumble, the floor shook.

    <i>Bam!</i>

    <i>Snap!</i>

    Chen Fan lifted his left foot and stomped fiercely onto Wang Hu¡¯s spine. Immediately, the sounds of bone breaking rang out, sending shivers down people¡¯s spine.

    ¡°O...¡±

    The surroundings fell into silence. Everyone stared wide-eyed, their faces full of disbelief. Only Wang Hu¡¯s miserable pained cries rang out.

 Chapter 29 - Ruthless

    <h4>Chapter 29 - Ruthless</h4>

    ¡°O!¡±

    The echoing howls of misery were so loud that the ears of everyone within a thousand-foot radius. Even those in the za who hadn¡¯t been paying attention to themotion turned and looked at them.

    ¡°You dare snatch my items and even want to cripple my limbs? With just you three trash?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression was merciless, emanating a cold aura. He swiftly moved his left foot, creating another snapping sound as Wang Hu''s left arm broke.

    ¡°Ow, ow, o!¡±

    Wang Hu¡¯s cries were heart-wrenching. His eyes rolled back from the pain, showing their whites.

    ¡°You think crying loudly will help?¡± Chen Fan said coldly, followed by another snapping sound as Wang Hu''s right arm broke.

    Finally, Zhao Hu and the number two, Lin Hu, came back to their senses. Their expressions changed, and they roared furiously, ¡°Trash, you¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    The two of them immediately lunged at Chen Fan. One was at the early stage of the sixth level, while the other was at the peak of the fifth level. Unleashing their full ferocity, they resembled two fierce tigers descending from the mountains.

    They had never expected that leaving Wang Hu to deal with Chen Fan would result in such a situation. How could they take this any longer? They immediately flew into a rage, determined to cripple Chen Fanpletely and perhaps even kill him.

    However, they didn''t dare to be careless. Chen Fan had effortlessly dealt with Wang Hu, surpassing their expectations. They immediately groped at their waists, each fishing out a tiger saber, shining with cold light.

    The two brothers disyed remarkable coordination. They unleashed more than a dozen shes with lightning speed, seamlessly linking their attacks. The saber light turned into streaks of terrifying demonic tigers, pouncing ferociously, seemingly capable of shaking the mountains and the forests.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Mad Tiger Saber, a middle-dirt tier martial skill. The two brothers are going all out from the get-go. They must really want to kill Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Instantly producing more than a dozen shes... That¡¯s major mastery, alright.¡±

    The onlooking crowd¡¯s hearts shivered, seeing the swathe of terrifying saber lighting from the left and right, effectively trapping Chen Fan. The shes tore the air apart, producing sharp whistling noises and forcing everyone¡¯s pupils to contract.

    The three tigers of the outer sect had to be this powerful; otherwise, someone would have long gotten rid of them.

    ¡°Chen Fan took care of Wang Hu with just a few moves. Looks like his cultivation is at least at the fifth level as well. Who knows what kind of luck he has to be able to cultivate and advance so rapidly.¡±

    ¡°Heh, heh, it¡¯s useless even if he¡¯s at the fifth level. Facing Zhao Hu and Lin Hu¡¯s Mad Tiger Saber, this guy is definitely dead.¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, driving primeval qi to his palms, and struck out violently.

    Immediately, golden light shone in the air, condensing into a millstone-sized golden palm.

    Vajra Seal.

    <i>ng, ng, ng...</i>

    Zhao Hu and Lin Hu¡¯s attacksnded on the Vajra Seal. Sparks flew in all directions as if they had struck an iron gate, the sound of metal colliding echoing through the air.

    However, despite the brothers'' relentless shes, the Vajra Seal showed no signs of crumbling. Their attacks were ineffective against the Vajra Seal.

    A cold smile formed on Chen Fan''s lips as he regarded them with disdain, seemingly looking at clowns.

    ¡°Have you finished your little show?¡±

    Chen Fan''s smile turned even colder as he shouted, "If you''re done, then go to hell!"

    Chen Fan¡¯s arm shook, and his Vajra Seal rumbled, trembling with a brilliant golden light, crushing everything in its path. Zhao Hu and Lin Hu¡¯s tiger sabers were shattered, and the Vajra Seal mmed forcefully onto the two, sending them flying and making them vomit blood.

    Everyone held their breaths, the area falling intoplete silence.

    Even the wailing Wang Hu seemed to have forgotten his pain, staring at Chen Fan with a dumbfounded expression.

    Chen Fan remained rooted throughout the encounter, only moving his arm and left foot. He never once shifted his position.

    Everyone was stunned, their gazes frozen.

    They couldn¡¯t believe everything they had just seen.

    How was that possible?

    How could that possibly happen?

    The trash Chen Fan defeated Zhao Hu and Lin Hu with a single move. His opponents had fifth- and sixth-level cultivation.

    Was this still the Chen Fan they knew?

    <i>Hiss, hiss...</i>

    The sound of cold air being sucked in resonated in the area.

    The scorn and disdain in their gazes toward Chen Fan disappeared without a trace, reced by deep astonishment, fear, and awe.

    ¡°Th-thi-this...¡±

    ¡°Gods, what did I just see? Zhao Hu and Lin Hu were defeated in the blink of an eye. Their ribs are broken, and they''re vomiting blood from the beating. Their organs are likely damaged.¡±

    ¡°Is this really Chen Fan? He¡¯s be so ferocious all of a sudden!¡±

    ¡°No wonder Chen Fan acted so arrogantly earlier,pletely disregarding the three tigers of the outer sect. It turns out he¡¯s be so strong, taking care of a sixth-level Qigong expert with one move.¡±

    ¡°How terrifying. It¡¯s no wonder he returned alive from Qingyang Mountain Range. Who knows what kind of fortunate encounter he had there to be this powerful?¡±

    ¡°Looks like the three tigers of the outer sect will be the three trashes of the outer sect from now on.¡±

    The crowd mored and discussed among themselves.

    Chen Fan ignored their discussions. He stepped forward, approaching Zhao Hu and looking down at him coldly.

    Zhao Hu looked at Chen Fan, his face full of shock. He shouted with a trembling voice, ¡°How is this possible? How could this be possible? How did you be so strong?¡±

    ¡°Nothing is impossible.¡±

    Chen Fan said evenly, ¡°Remember what I said earlier? Now I will take the hand that tried to take what¡¯s mine.¡±

    He raised his foot and stomped on Zhao Hu¡¯s wrist.

    Chen Fan applied a bit of strength and crushed Zhao Hu¡¯s hand, turning it into a mangled mess of flesh, bones, and dirt.

    ¡°O!¡±

    Zhao Hu immediately cried out miserably.

    ¡°Don¡¯t cry so soon. There¡¯s still the other hand,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, seemingly discussing a mundane matter.

    The hearts of the people around them trembled, their eyelids twitching violently.

    ¡°Ah, no, don¡¯t!¡± Zhao Hu screamed miserably.

    Zhao Hu¡¯s heart was filled with remorse. He realized that Chen Fan was not the insignificant ant he had always believed him to be.

    Chen Fan had transformed into a ferocious tiger, lurking in the shadows while they remained oblivious. Their greed had led them straight into the depths of hell.

    ¡°Don¡¯t? What do you mean, don¡¯t? Oh, you also don¡¯t like this hand? Let me help you get rid of it.¡± Chen Fan crippled Zhao Hu¡¯s other hand.

    Despair consumed Zhao Hu as both of his hands were thoroughly crippled. Not even the Buddha could help restore them.

    Theplexions of the people nearby turned pale.

    They looked at Chen Fan as if they were looking at a demon. He had crushed Zhao Hu¡¯s hands without even the slightest hesitation.

    How ruthless!

    ¡°O, Chen Fan, you little bastard, you... beast! You will die a miserable death! Senior Brother Chen Changfeng will avenge us! He will soon reach the eighth level. You are finished! You are surely doomed!!¡±

    Zhao Hu showed no regard for his life after getting his hands crippled, moring like a madman.

    ¡°Your tongue is rather sharp. Very well, I like people like you.¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, a cold light shing in them. His foot fell, and his strength instantly rushed into Zhao Hu¡¯s dantian, destroying it.

    ¡°Ah! You little bastard, you crippled my dantian! You deserve to die! You beast, you¡¯ll surely die miserably...¡± Zhao Hu¡¯s expression instantly turned ashen,pletely desperate, but a trace of ferocity could still be found in his desperation.

    ¡°You can still curse at me. Looks like you¡¯re not in enough pain. Since that¡¯s the case, you can go to hell.¡±

    With a stomp, Zhao Hu¡¯s head burst like a watermelon; his crazed curses ended abruptly.

 Chapter 30 - Ghostly Shadow Steps

    <h4>Chapter 30 - Ghostly Shadow Steps</h4>

    The surrounding space instantly fell silent.

    The atmosphere turned heavy.

    The people had frozen, caught off guard by Chen Fan''s ruthless and decisive act of killing someone.

    Dumbfounded, everyone present was taken aback, and some less courageous individuals even trembled in fear.

    ¡°He''s ruthless, incredibly ruthless. It seems our outer sect has gained another formidable individual.¡±

    The ferocious might Chen Fan had disyed struck fear in most of the people here.

    ¡°But I never expected the three tigers to be under Chen Changfeng''smand. And he''s already attempting to advance to the eighth level? He won''t let Chen Fan off easily for killing Zhao Hu.¡±

    Many people had simr thoughts, their eyes shining with intrigue.

    Even so, Chen Fan didn¡¯t think too deeply about things.

    Since Zhao Hu¡¯s gang wanted to rob him of his treasures and even threatened to kill him, he couldn''t simply sit idly by. He sought retribution, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

    Even though the three tigers had Chen Changfeng¡¯s support¡ªsomeone about to be an eighth-level martial artist¡ªChen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid. If he could advance to the sixth level, he knew that he wouldn¡¯t be helpless against an eighth-level Qigong martial artist.

    ¡°You better keep your mouth shut, or I won''t hesitate to send you to join your damn big brother.¡± Chen Fan walked up to Lin Hu. Lin Hu was about to curse aloud again, but Chen Fan¡¯s words sent chills into his heart, and his eyes became filled with fear.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°You guys tried to rob my items, tarnish my reputation, and even tried to kill me. But I¡¯m a merciful person. Killing one of you as a warning is sufficient, but shouldn''t you offer something aspensation?¡±

    The crowd rolled their eyes back when they heard Chen Fan.

    What did he mean by ¡°merciful?¡± He was simply a demon who killed without hesitation!

    However, the people also realized that Chen Fan was trying to rip them off.

    But no one said a word.

    After all, the three tigers had also tried to snatch his items by force.

    In the outer sect, one could do as they liked within the confines of the sect''s rules as long as they were strong enough.

    Lin Hu naturally understood what Chen Fan was getting at. He knelt with difficulty, retrieved a brocade pouch from his bosom, and hurriedly said, ¡°Senior Brother Chen, it¡¯s our fault for not recognizing your greatness and offending you. Here are twenty primeval stones. Please ept them and forgive us.¡± [1]

    Chen Fan had killed Zhao Hu and broken Wang Hu¡¯s hands. Lin Hu didn¡¯t wish to be the third victim. He dismissed any notions of dying on the same day, same month, and same year as mere nonsense. [2]

    ¡°Good, very good. You are pretty sensible. I won¡¯t bother you too much this time.¡± Chen Fan epted the brocade pouch, put away his goods, and left,ughing loudly.

    As they watched Chen Fan depart, the expressions of the crowd varied.

    ¡°Second Brother, are we just going to let this go?¡±

    Chen Fan had broken Wang Hu¡¯s spine with a stomp, so he was paralyzed. He mustered his strength and looked up at Lin Hu with difficulty, his eyes full of resentment.

    Lin Hu smiled spitefully. ¡°We¡¯re not his match, Third Brother. We¡¯ll wait for Senior Brother Changfeng to exit his secluded cultivation. We¡¯ll get our payback with interest then!¡±

    ......

    After leaving the za, Chen Fan headed deeper into the sect with his items in tow.

    These items were of such high quality that only a few outer disciples could afford them, so he decided to sell them to the sect.

    On the wide mountain path, people came and went.

    Chen Fan walked to the Hundred Treasures Hall on this mountain path.

    On his way there, many people saw him, pointed fingers at him, and discussed among themselves.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t pay any attention to them and soon arrived at the Hundred Treasures Hall.

    The Hundred Treasures Hall Elder took inventory and did the calctions. The total sum came up to be five hundred primeval stones.

    Hearing the sum, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but suck in cold air.

    Killing others to rob them and hunting demon beasts were indeed the fastest ways to umte wealth.

    Chen Fan¡¯s next destination was the Martial Arts Pavilion.

    Outer sect disciples had three opportunities to enter the Martial Arts Pavilion to pick out martial arts manuals: once when they reached the first level of the Qigong realm, again at the fourth level, and finally at the seventh level.

    His cultivation was already at the peak of the fifth level, so he could enter the pavilion¡¯s second floor and pick out a middle-dirt tier martial art.

    Upon arriving at the Martial Arts Pavilion, Chen Fan saw the Pavilion Guard Elder, seemingly dead drunk and asleep, leaning against the steps. However, Chen Fan knew that the Elder was merely feigning sleep.

    He walked up to the elder and greeted respectfully, ¡°Greetings, Elder.¡±

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you, kid. You¡¯re actually at the peak stage of the fifth level. Not bad, not bad.¡±

    The Pavilion Guard Elder¡¯s eyelids didn¡¯t even twitch as he recognized Chen Fan through his voice alone. Not only that, even Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level couldn¡¯t escape his senses.

    ¡°Elder, you tter me,¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    "Mmm, go on¡ª" The Pavilion Guard Elder was about to allow Chen Fan entry into the Martial Arts Pavilion but abruptly stopped. He raised his disheveled head, opened his eyes, and stared at the storage pouch fastened to Chen Fan''s waist. ¡°I just caught a whiff of something good, kid. What do you have in your storage pouch? Quickly take it out and show me.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression stiffened.

    A person¡¯s storage pouch was private, and its content wasn¡¯t to be revealed casually. Doing so would expose their secrets.

    However, Chen Fan quickly regained hisposure. With a smile, he unfastened his storage pouch and took out a gourd from within. ¡°Is Elder referring to this?¡±

    <i>Swoosh.</i>

    With lightning speed, the Pavilion Guard Elder swiped his hands and took hold of the gourd. He uncorked it, and immediately, a refreshing aroma of wine filled the air.

    ¡°Mmm, good stuff, good stuff. It¡¯s actually Monkey Wine. Excellent, I like it.¡±

    The Pavilion Guard Elder''s eyes sparkled as if he had justid eyes on his lover. He held onto the gourd lovingly, praising it incessantly.

    ¡°Since the Elder enjoys it, let''s consider this gourd of Monkey Wine as a token of filial respect from this disciple,¡± Chen Fan said with a smile.

    He had obtained the gourd of Monkey Wine from a cavern belonging to a group of demon monkeys while hunting demon beasts in the Qingyang Mountain Range. Demon monkeys made it by gathering countless spiritual fruits and letting them ferment for a long time. The wine also had certain benefits for martial artists'' cultivation.

    ¡°This...¡± the Pavilion Guard Elder looked hesitant.

    As the sect elder responsible for guarding the outer sect''s Martial Arts Pavilion, epting wine from a disciple felt somewhat shameful.

    However, he loved wine as much as his life, and Monkey Wine was incredibly rare. He couldn''t bear to part with it, feeling torn between his desires.

    Chen Fan caught the elder''s internal struggle and smiled and reassured him. ¡°No need to be embarrassed, Elder. Consider it an expression of gratitude for helping me ess the pavilion''s second floor back then.¡±

    Three months ago, Chen Fan hade to the Martial Arts Pavilion and tried to enter the second floor forcibly. When he was about to be ejected by the rebounding force, it had suddenly significantly weakened.

    He was puzzled then; when he thought about it afterward, he understood that the Pavilion Guard Elder must have given him a hand. Otherwise, it would have been impossible for him to reach the second floor and obtain the remnants of the Thousand Hand Seal and the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    ¡°Haha, don¡¯t speak nonsense, kid. This Elder is impartial,¡± the Pavilion Guard Elderughed. ¡°You¡¯re here to pick out a movement martial skill, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded, feeling surprised inside.

    He hadn''t expected the elder to discern his purpose with just a nce. Theck of a proficient movement technique was a significant weakness to him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll ept your Monkey Wine but won¡¯t take advantage of you, either. If you can get to the third floor, take the Ghostly Shadow Steps from the secondst bookshelf. It should suit you very well.¡±

    ¡°Many thanks for Elder¡¯s guidance.¡± Chen Fan hurriedly expressed his gratitude, overjoyed.

    The Pavilion Guard Elder waved his hand and said, ¡°Go on.¡±

    Chen Fan entered the Martial Arts Pavilion, heading straight for the third floor.

    A seventh-level cultivation was required to go up to the third floor, but Chen Fan had strengthparable to that. As such, the membraneyer could not stop him at all. He soon arrived at the third floor and found the Ghostly Shadow Steps per the elder¡¯s instructions.

    The Ghostly Shadow Steps was a very brilliant movement technique. At major mastery, one would be fast like a blur, moving without leaving shadows or traces.

    ¡°Nice, the Ghostly Shadow Steps will take care of my greatest weakness.¡±

    Holding the Ghostly Shadow Steps, Chen Fan exited the Martial Arts Pavilion and thanked the elder again before leaving for his residence happily.

    ¡°This kid¡¯s not bad,¡± the Pavilion Guard Elder mumbled, looking at Chen Fan.

    Nowadays, Young people tend to only focus on their cultivation and were bing increasingly impatient. Most of them have forgotten all about basic etiquette.

    1. Not to be confused with a storage pouch, this is just an ordinary pouch with nicer fabric ?

    2. Common line in the oath sworn when bing sworn brothers ?

 Chapter 31 â€“ Vile Characters Haunt Like Ghosts

    <h4>Chapter 31 ¨C Vile Characters Haunt Like Ghosts</h4>

    <i>Swish!</i>

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    A silhouette darted around like a phantom in a small courtyard, drawing blurs in the air and stirring up a whistling sound of wind.

    Chen Fan was practicing Ghostly Shadow Steps.

    <i>Bang! Bang! Bang!</i>

    Suddenly, a series of fierce knocking sounds echoed from the door.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow.

    This was no ordinary knocking; it was as if someone was trying to smash the door. It was on the verge of breaking.

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    Chen Fan asked coldly as he went to answer the door.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A loud bang reverberated through the air as he got closer, and the door shattered. The wooden splinters and fragments flew toward his face, posing a threat of disfigurement if he failed to dodge them.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan took a quick step aside, evading the iing projectiles.

    ¡°Trash, how dare you make me, Master Hou, knock for so long. Are you looking to die?¡± An arrogant and overbearing voice resounded, apanied by the arrival of a figure exuding an air of superiority.

    Chen Fan exuded a chilling aura as he stared coldly at the other person. ¡°Who are you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m someone you can¡¯t afford to mess with!¡± replied the self-proimed Master Hou, raising his head condescendingly.

    A cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    This person¡¯s cultivation was merely at the sixth level, yet he dared to talk to him that way. Was he looking to die?

    Master Hou ignored Chen Fan¡¯s cold gaze, gestured with his chin, andmanded, ¡°Come with me, trash. Brother Zhong wants to see you.¡±

    ¡°Brother Zhong?¡± Chen Fan looked confused.

    ¡°Big Brother Zhong Li!¡±

    Master Hou said impatiently, ¡°Stop wasting time and juste with me quickly. Brother Zhong wants to see you. That¡¯s a blessing you must have umted over three lifetimes. Don¡¯t make Brother Zhong wait for too long.¡±

    ¡°Three lifetimes worth of luck...¡± Chen Fan scoffed. He stepped towards ¡°Master Hou,¡± his cold intent enveloping him, sending chills into Master Hou¡¯s heart. Fear flickered in his eyes.

    He knew about what had happened at the outer sect za yesterday.

    Chen Fan had effortlessly killed Zhao Hu, someone with the same cultivation level as Master Hou. He knew that he wouldn''t be able to escape if Chen Fan intended to kill him.

    However, remembering his identity, Master Hou straightened his back and extended his neck. ¡°Trash, what are you trying to do?¡±

    ¡°What am I trying to do?¡±

    A cold light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    The clear and crisp sound of a p rang out. The sound was apanied by Master Hou stumbling as two bloody teeth flew out of his mouth.

    ¡°A mere sixth-level cultivator dares to call me trash to my face. Are you tired of living?¡± Chen Fan said eerily.

    ¡°Y-yo-you...¡±

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Another pnded on his face.

    ¡°You what? I even killed Zhao Hu, and you dare act arrogant with me? You best believe I can kill you right now!¡±

    Deep fear filled Master Hou''s eyes as he shrank back. The cold expression on Chen Fan''s face emanated a chilling killing intent.

    ¡°If Zhong Li wants to see me, tell him toe to me. What nonsense is this?¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    He was no longer the same person as before; he wouldn''t simply ept whatever was thrown at him.

    ¡°You... just you wait! I¡¯ll go back and tell Brother Zhong,¡± Master Hou said, his eyes gleaming with resentment.

    ¡°Did I say you could leave?¡±

    Chen Fan''s icy words froze Master Hou in ce.

    ¡°You... what do you want?¡±

    ¡°What do I want?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, ¡°A dog like you destroyed my courtyard door and wants to leave just like that?¡±

    ¡°What do you want, then?¡±

    ¡°You can leave after paying twenty primeval stones.¡±

    ¡°Twenty primeval stones? Why don¡¯t you go rob?!¡± Master Hou exploded.

    ¡°Not paying me?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice turned even colder. ¡°That¡¯s fine. I''ll just cripple the leg you used to kick down my door.¡±

    "You, you, you..." Master Hou trembled with anger. However, as Chen Fan approached, fear overtook him, and he quickly shouted, "I''ll pay, I''ll pay!"

    Then, he hurriedly took out twenty primeval stones from his storage pouch and ran away in fear.

    ¡°Ah, trash, just you wait! Brother Zhong won¡¯t let you off. You''re done for! You¡¯re done for, you know that!?¡±

    An angry roar echoed, reaching Chen Fan''s ears. He smiled faintly, not taking the threat to heart.

    Encountering vile characters was like encountering ghosts. One mustn¡¯t act weak in front of them. If one gave them an inch, they would want a mile, but if you put up a strong front, they wouldn¡¯t daree near you.

    ¡°That guy¡¯s really bold, daring to beat up Hou Qing and even extort him. Doesn¡¯t he know Senior Brother Zhong Li has Hou Qing¡¯s back?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, a good show¡¯sing right up. This guy acts so boldly. Senior Brother Zhong Li definitely won''t let him off easily. He¡¯s the Heaven¡¯s Alliance leader for the outer sect. He deserves the number one stop in the outer sect.¡±

    ¡°I heard he killed Zhao Hu in front of everyone in the outer sect za yesterday. Not only that, he crippled Wang Hu and even swindled Lin Hu out of many primeval stones. I never expected to see the day when that trash would make aeback. From what I can tell, his cultivation is at least at the sixth level.¡±

    ¡°I heard he stumbled upon some incredibly fortunate encounter. He escaped to Qingyang Mountain Range to save his life and happened upon the relics of an ancient cultivator in a cavern by chance. That¡¯s how he turned from trash to a genius. Otherwise, why would his cultivation suddenly soar when he failed to enter the Qi Gathering realm for three years? That must be the reason.¡±

    A group of people gathered outside the courtyard.

    Observing Hou Qing, battered and bruised from Chen Fan''s ps, struggling to speak and leaving in a sorry state, the onlookers began discussing in hushed tones. They reveled in Chen Fan''s impending misfortune and felt envious of his newfound luck.

    Chen Fan ignored these people and continued practicing Ghostly Shadow Steps.

    ......

    Meanwhile, in a picturesque location within the outer sect:

    There was a loft with carved beams and painted pirs. This ce was the main hall of the Heaven''s Alliance in the outer sect, serving as Zhong Li''s residence.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Hou Qing burst into the hall, his face filled with urgency and fury. Seeing the youth sitting on the praying mat, he knelt and said, ¡°Brother Zhong, I was ipetent. Please punish me!¡±

    Zhong Li ceased his meditation, opening his eyes to gaze at Hou Qing kneeling on the floor. A light shone in his eyes, and he said softly, ¡°Get up. Tell me what happened.¡±

    "Yes," Hou Qing replied, remaining in his kneeling position.

    ¡°Brother Zhong, I went to summon Chen Fan as you¡¯ve instructed. That trash refused and dared to question your authority and told you to go meet him instead. I couldn¡¯t take it and got into a scuffle with him. But that trash is stronger than I am. Not only did he p me, he even forced me to kneel before him and extorted fifty primeval stones from me...¡±

    Hou Qing recounted what had transpired, exaggerating the events. He shifted two steps forward, still kneeling, and said, ¡°Brother Zhong, you have to avenge me. That trash has crossed the line, thinking he can act unruly just because he came across some fortuitous encounter and got rid of his title as trash. So be it if he beat me up, but he even insulted you. You can¡¯t let him off. You have to kill him!¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    A cold light shed in Zhong Li¡¯s eyes when he heard Hou Qing¡¯s ount, and an overwhelming aura erupted from him.

    Hou Qing felt like he was about to suffocate under the aura. Horror appeared on his face as he trembled all over.

    ¡°Who does he think I am? And I should be the one going to him? Hmph, very well. Okay, let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll personally tell him who I am! He dares beat up someone from my Heaven¡¯s Alliance? How daring of him! Not even the gods can save him now!¡±

    Zhong Li stood up from the praying mat.

    An even more powerful aura surged from him. The red sandalwood tables and chairs in the room all shattered under this aura.

    Sensing Zhong Li¡¯s anger, Hou Qing smiled widely. <i>You¡¯re dead, trash. You¡¯re dead, for sure.</i>

 Chapter 32 - Qi Grandmaster Zhong Li

    <h4>Chapter 32 - Qi Grandmaster Zhong Li</h4>

    ¡°Hey, look! They¡¯re here!¡±

    The group gathered outside Chen Fan¡¯s house hadn¡¯t left. They had been waiting, eagerly looking forward to a good show.

    And as they had hoped, two people were indeed approaching this ce.

    The crowd turned their attention to them, and their gazes immediately narrowed, their pupils shrinking.

    ¡°It¡¯s Senior Brother Zhong Li. He actually came in person.¡±

    ¡°That brat Chen Fan is surely finished. With Senior Brother Zhong Liing personally, he is in for a rough time.¡±

    ¡°Rumors say that Senior Brother Zhong Li has already broken through to the ninth level and has be a Qi Grandmaster. That¡¯s too terrifying.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Zhong Li can probably kill Chen Fan with one finger. That guy is dead.¡±

    The crowd discussed spiritedly, their gazes filled with awe and fear as they observed the figure in white, Zhong Li, walking ahead.

    ¡°Trash,e out here!¡± shouted Hou Qing, still over 100 meters away, his voice amplified by his primeval qi, resonating like thunder in spring.

    Chen Fan paused for a moment, furrowing his brow.

    Naturally, he recognized Hou Qing¡¯s voice and had heard the crowd''s discussions outside. Moreover, he could distinctly sense a formidable aura nearby.

    He knew that this aura most likely belonged to the person the crowd referred to as Zhong Li.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression sank, and he walked out. He immediately spotted the tall, slender, and remarkably handsome Zhong Li, dressed in white.

    With Zhong Li beside him, Hou Qing seemed especially arrogant. He took half a step forward, his arm at his hip and his other hand pointing at Chen Fan. ¡°Hey, you worthless trash! Are you still not kneeling in the presence of Brother Zhong? Offer the treasures you got from the Qingyang Mountain Range with both hands and beg for forgiveness. Perhaps you still have a slim chance of surviving. Otherwise, no one in the world can save you!¡±

    Hou Qing''s current actions showcased his servile nature to the extreme.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t take Hou Qing seriously at all. His gaze remained fixed on Zhong Li, and his pupils contracted.

    Zhong Li was emanating an extremely dangerous aura.

    <i>These people were saying this Zhong Li guy is the leader of the outer sect branch of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, the top expert of the outer sect, with a ninth-level cultivation. Doesn¡¯t that mean he is a Qi Grandmaster? </i>Chen Fan''s mind raced with numerous thoughts.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan?¡± Zhong Li asked inly, looking at Chen Fan indifferently.

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°I instructed Hou Qing to bring you to me. Why did you injure him?¡± Zhong Li¡¯s tone turned slightly colder. Chen Fan immediately felt a pressure bearing down on him.

    ¡°How funny. I am supposed to see you just because you want me to? Are we friends? Do I even know you?¡± Chen Fan replied coldly, his tone sharp and tough.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    ¡°This guy really deserves to die. He actually dared to speak like this to Senior Brother Zhong Li! How detestable!¡±

    ¡°In the outer sect, we don¡¯t get to meet Senior Brother Zhong Li even if we want to. Not only did he reject Senior Brother Zhong Li¡¯s invitation before, but he is also spouting nonsense and humiliating Senior Brother now. He really deserves to die!¡±

    In an instant, the crowd started moring.

    A slight twitch appeared on Zhong Li''s otherwise expressionless face. However, his voice remained as indifferent as before. ¡°Hoho, very good. It¡¯s been a very long time since anyone dared to speak to me this way in the outer sect. You¡¯re very courageous, but it¡¯s a pity. Courage does not equate to strength. Putting up a bold front in front of me without possessing strength is nothing but ipetence. That¡¯s no different from looking for death.¡±

    Zhong Li paused momentarily and said, "Go, Hou Qing, p him hard!"

    ¡°Brother Zhong, I...¡±

    Hou Qing looked perturbed. He was no match for Chen Fan.

    Zhong Li said inly, ¡°What are you scared of? I¡¯m right here!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    Hou Qing''splexion eased. He haughtily approached Chen Fan, turning his shoulder as he walked as if preparing himself.

    ¡°Trash, stand there and don¡¯t move. Stick your face out!¡± Hou Qing smiled evilly, standing less than two meters from Chen Fan, his expression savage.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    A clear and crisp p rang out.

    However, Hou Qing didn¡¯t p Chen Fan. It was the other way around.

    The crowd was dumbfounded. Unexpectedly, Chen Fan had chosen to act so brazenly even in front of Zhong Li.

    ¡°Ahhh! Chen Fan, you dare hit me! You¡¯re dead! You¡¯re dead, for sure! You haven¡¯t pped him¡ªyou have pped Brother Zhong, you know that!? No one can save you now! You are dead; you just don¡¯t know it yet!¡±

    Hou Qing felt a burning, stinging pain on his face when he returned to his senses. He immediately flew into a rage and barked crazily.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Another crisp p rang out.

    Chen Fan had pped even harder this time. Hou Qing stopped speaking abruptly as his body spun twice, staggering backward.

    ¡°Brother Zhong, he... he hit me...¡±

    Hou Qing pressed his hand on his face, unable to speak clearly, but everyone knew what he meant: to have Zhong Li stand up for him.

    The surrounding area went quiet.

    The crowd also stopped murmuring, looking at Chen Fan, dumbstruck.

    Hou Qing was right. Chen Fan wasn¡¯t pping Hou Qing but embarrassing Zhong Li.

    Zhong Li had ordered Hou Qing to p Chen Fan. From the people¡¯s point of view, Chen Fan should have stood there obediently and let Hou Qing do it without any resistance.

    However, no one anticipated that Chen Fan would take action before Hou Qing could make a move.

    The crowd clearly felt the rage brewing inside of Zhong Li. An icy killing intent emanated from him, chilling the air and seeping into their very bones.

    Zhong Li was angry. Furious!

    When a Qi Grandmaster turned furious, the nearby area would be slick with blood.

    Zhong Li shot Chen Fan an icy, piercing gaze; it was like a sharp sword. An overwhelming pressure enveloped Chen Fan and pushed out the air around him, suffocating him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you onest chance. Kneel, offer up all your treasures, beg for my forgiveness, and cripple your cultivation. I will spare your life and allow you to live as an ordinary person in the mortal world.¡±

    Zhong Li spoke inly but seemed domineering and majestic, as if his words were heaven¡¯s decree. Chen Fan had to do as he said to obtain his forgiveness and keep his life intact.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯vemitted a crime worthy of death, a sin for which you must pay with your life, you know that? Hurry up and hand over all your treasures, then kneel, admit your wrongdoings, and cripple your cultivation. That way, you still have a chance at life!¡± Hou Qing shouted furiously.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Chen Fan. Quickly kneel and offer up the treasures you got in Qingyang Mountain Range. Beg Senior Brother Zhong Li for forgiveness. Understand? What you¡¯ve just said is enough for you to die ten times. Senior Brother Zhong Li is magnanimous and will let you live a mortal life. That¡¯s your luck. Quickly do as you¡¯re told!¡±

    ¡°Right, killing you a hundred or even a thousand times won¡¯t be enough if you upset Senior Brother Zhong Li!¡±

    The crowd had fawning looks on their faces as they all shouted at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Let alone the fact I don¡¯t have any treasures; even if I did, I wouldn¡¯t give them to you. Who do you think you are?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice sounded especially piercing to the ear amidst the crowd¡¯s furious roars.

    The crowd turned mute in an instant, looking at him in inexplicable horror.

 Chapter 33 - He Must Die

    <h4>Chapter 33 - He Must Die</h4>

    ¡°What did he say?¡±

    ¡°Damn, he¡¯s too detestable! He actually dared to humiliate Senior Brother Zhong Li like that!¡±

    ¡°Kill him. He must be killed as a warning to others!¡±

    The crowd immediately grew furious, feeling as though Chen Fan''s words were not only directed at Zhong Li but also at them.

    Hou Qing was slightly taken aback but quickly grasped the situation. A look of wild joy shed in his eyes, and he shouted, ¡°Damn, damn! You trash really deserves to die. You should be killed a thousand, ten thousand times! Just this offense alone should condemn you to death!¡±

    ¡°Brother Zhong, you must kill him and cut him into a million pieces. He deserves to die for showing you no respect at all. He is detestable, extremely detestable!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Even though Zhong Li¡¯s expression remained as indifferent as before, a wild and violent wind rose around him, sweeping sand, rocks, and fallen leaves into the air.

    ¡°Good, very good. You¡¯re the first one to dare speak to me like that!¡± Zhong Liughed coldly and made his move, taking a step forward.

    <i>Boom boom!</i>

    The violent wind around him intensified, exerting a terrifying pressure that rushed toward Chen Fan. He felt like his primeval qi wasn¡¯t circting smoothly. Even his blood flow had be slower.

    ¡°What a terrifying aura!¡±

    ¡°So, this is the wrath of a Qi Grandmaster? It¡¯s indeed terrifying. That aura alone makes me want to vomit blood and kneel on the ground.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right? As expected of the outer sect¡¯s number one.¡±

    The crowd also felt the oppressive aura emanating from Zhong Li. Their faces turned ashen, and they hurriedly retreated, trying to escape the range of that pressure.

    ¡°Haah!¡±

    Chen Fan let out a furious roar, revolving the primeval qi in his dantian. A gale blew around him, opposing that terrifying pressure. He stood straight as an arrow, his sharp gaze staring at Zhong Li.

    ¡°Kneel!¡±

    Zhong Li narrowed his gaze and took another step forward, intensifying the oppressive pressure emanating from him.

    ¡°Ugh!¡±

    Chen Fan stifled a grunt, feeling like a massive, invisible hand was pressing down on him, wanting to force him to bend and submit to Zhong Li.

    ¡°Not even heaven and earth can make me kneel, let alone you. Who do you think you are to demand that I kneel? Are you worthy?¡± Chen Fan roared furiously, gradually straightening his slightly bent back.

    Chen Fan couldn''t withstand the terror of a Qi Grandmaster¡¯s wrath. The mere aura suffocated him as if the source wasn¡¯t a person but an ancient ferocious beast capable of effortlessly tearing him apart.

    ¡°You¡¯re really ame duck, Chen Fan. You¡¯re about to be cooked, yet that mouth of yours is still so stubborn!¡± Zhong Li said coldly, his aura growing stronger. ¡°Heaven and earth can¡¯t make you kneel, but I can! If I want you to kneel, you have no choice but to kneel. Kneel and repent for your sins. I have already given you two chances to stay alive; unfortunately, you have missed them all. Today, I will make you die on your knees. No one can save you!¡±

    ¡°Argh, who do you think you are? You¡¯re nothing more than a fart!¡±

    The oppressive pressure descended, bearing down on Chen Fan like a mountain, rendering him immobile. Chen Fan resisted stubbornly, his face flushed and the veins on his forehead popping out. A terrifying, savage light continued to shine in his eyes.

    ¡°Good, very good. I like seeing this look of defiance in people. But it¡¯s a pity. Under my suppression, no amount of roaring or shouting will help you. You still have to kneel to me, and you still have to die! I don¡¯t even have to lift a finger to kill you. A Qi Grandmaster like me can kill you with their aura alone. I shall ensure you perish while kneeling, serving as a warning to others. I¡¯ll let everyone in the outer sect know that no one can infringe upon my prestige.¡±

    Zhong Li''s deration rang coldly as he walked closer to Chen Fan, emanating his formidable aura.

    ¡°Break for me, break, break!¡±

    Chen Fan roared madly. His primeval qi worked to the limits, frantically releasing his cultivation to resist Zhong Li¡¯s suppression.

    He felt like his blood vessels were about to burst, and his bones were about to shatter under that pressure.

    Terrifying!

    Too terrifying!

    ¡°Ahhhhhhh...¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t give in. Despite his back already being bent, he exerted every ounce of effort to straighten it.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. Kneel for me!¡±

    Zhong Li smiled coldly, shaking his head. Suddenly, he trembled, making the air quake as the full force of a Qi Grandmaster''s pressure erupted.

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    Immediately, Chen Fan felt like a sledgehammer had struck him.

    Chen Fan shook violently. His organs shifted positions, his bones emitted creaking sounds, and he hunched over, vomiting fresh blood.

    ¡°You see that? This is the difference between us. In front of me, you¡¯re no different from an ant. All it takes is a thought to kill you!¡±

    Zhong Li¡¯s voice carried a trace of arrogance.

    ¡°Stop!¡±

    A furious roar suddenly reverberated through the air

    Zhong Li¡¯s expression sank, and a vicious light shone in his eyes. His palm moved, aiming to strike down Chen Fan and end his life then and there.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    That voice was full of anger. With a swoosh, a qi force shot over, smashing into Zhong Li¡¯s palm seal and shattering it.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Simultaneously, a figurended in front of Chen Fan. His aura easily pushing back Zhong Li¡¯s Qi Grandmaster¡¯s aura, even forcing him two steps back.

    The neer was none other than Qin Changkong.

    ¡°Qin Changkong, you dare block me!?¡±

    Zhong Li¡¯s expression turned ugly, staring at Qin Changkong with an icy cold gaze.

    Despite Qin Changkong being an Elder of the outer sect, Zhong Li addressed him by name, disying no trace of respect. Not only that, his tone was threatening and interrogative.

    ¡°Audacious! How dare an outer sect disciple address an elder by their name! Do you believe I won''t execute you on the spot?!¡± Qin Changkong shouted furiously. His qi pressure erupted, causing Zhong Li¡¯s expression to stiffen.

    ¡°Very well, Qin Changkong. Don''t forget that I am a member of the Heaven''s Alliance. You dare not to give me any face?¡± Zhong Li emphasized the words ¡°Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡± heavily, his threat apparent.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    Qin Changkong bellowed once again, making the crowd''s eardrums ring.

    As an expert in the Yuanfu realm, he had already cultivated a primeval vessel within him, condensing an immense amount of primeval force. His shout, amplified with primeval force, was much more powerful than primeval qi.

    Qin Changkong showed no expression as he said indifferently, ¡°Face is earned through one''s own merits. If Duan Jingtian were present, perhaps I would show him some respect. But you, an outer sect disciple, dare to threaten this Elder. If you don¡¯t retreat now, I can charge you with the offense of contradicting an Elder.¡±

    Zhong Li¡¯s expression sank. He stared at Chen Fan with killing intent and said, ¡°Count yourself lucky today, Chen Fan. But I¡¯ll make sure you die an ugly death at the Outer Sect Grand Competition!¡±

    ¡°And you, Qin Changkong!¡±

    Zhong Li shifted his gaze onto Qin Changkong as he said, ¡°Do not think that your status as an Elder grants you any power over me. I¡¯m already a Qi Grandmaster and can enter the inner sect after the Outer Sect Grand Competition and advance into the Yuanfu realm. I¡¯ll have plenty of methods to deal with an outer sect elder like you then.

    Zhong Li took a pause, and his lips twisted into an evil smile. "I''ve heard that your daughter, Qin Yao, is a beauty. Just wait. When I enter the inner sect, I will have you send her to my bed."

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Qin Changkong flew into a rage upon hearing this.

    His terrifying Yuanfu instantly erupted, sweeping up the sand and rocks and making the crowd vomit mouthfuls of blood. Not even Zhong Li was an exception.

    ¡°Haha, you wish to kill me? That¡¯s not happening. Just wait. I¡¯ll have you two wish you were dead!¡±

    Zhong Li burst out inughter. His figure moved, turning into a white blur. With a few leaps, he was gone without a trace; only his arrogant voice was left, still echoing.

    <i>Damn it! Damn it! Zhong Li, just wait. I¡¯ll definitely kill you! Definitely!</i>

    Chen Fan roared in his heart.

    Zhong Li had threatened and humiliated Qin Changkong and harbored malicious intentions toward Qin Yao. He deserved to die. He must die!

 Chapter 34 - Heavenâ€™s Alliance

    <h4>Chapter 34 - Heaven¡¯s Alliance</h4>

    ¡°Xiaofan, are you alright?¡±

    Qin Changkong hurriedly took out a pill and offered it to Chen Fan, seeing the fresh blood at the corners of his mouth.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t reject him out of politeness and epted the medicine.

    He had sustained severe internal injuries under the immense pressure exerted by Zhong Li.

    With the Outer Sect Grand Competition approaching, he needed to heal his injuries; otherwise, thepetition would be a life-or-death struggle.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Uncle Qin.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and asked, ¡°Why are you here, Uncle Qin?¡±

    If Qin Changkong hadn''t arrived in time, Chen Fan would have undoubtedly died.

    Zhong Li¡¯s Qi Grandmaster cultivation was iparably terrifying. The mere pressure from it made him feel like a mountain was weighing down on his back, and the invisible airwaves directed toward him were as powerful as an attack from a sixth-level martial artist.

    Thankfully, his iparably tough physique saved him. Otherwise, as Zhong Li had said, no matter how fiercely he roared or shouted, it would have been futile.

    ¡°I heard you killed Zhao Hu in front of a crowd yesterday, so I knew you were back. Yaoyao is at fault, too. She¡¯s been back for days. Clearly, she found you, yet she didn''t bring you back with her. I was distraught.¡±

    ¡°I came here to visit you and bring you the primeval stone allowance for the past three months.¡±

    Qin Changkong took out a small cloth pouch from his bosom containing about ten primeval stones.

    Upon hearing Qin Changkong''s words, Chen Fan felt both touched and troubled because of what had happened between him and Qin Yao.

    ¡°Uncle Qin, how is Senior Sister doing?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    ¡°Same as usual, but there¡¯s a white little monkey by her side now.¡±

    Unaware of the situation between Chen Fan and Qin Yao, Qin Changkong gave little thought to Chen Fan''s inquiry about her well-being.

    Chen Fan nodded. ¡°Then I¡¯ll go visit Senior Sister in a few days.¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡±

    Qin Changkong nodded and said, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about Yaoyao for now. I still have to ask you some things.¡±

    Qin Changkong looked closely at Chen Fan, his expression bing serious. ¡°Peak of the fifth level, close to breaking through. Not bad.¡±

    He was a Yuanfu realm expert; his insight was incredibly sharp. Even if Chen Fan wasn¡¯t emitting his aura, Qin Changkong could discern his progress with a nce.

    ¡°Xiaofan, what¡¯s going on with your cultivation?¡± Qin Changkong asked.

    The entire outer sect knew about Chen Fan¡¯s previous situation. He was no exception.

    Chen Fan¡¯s dantian was like an iron block, and his meridians were blocked. For three years, he had been stuck at the peak of the Body Refinement realm, unable to progress. Just as the Outer Sect Grand Competition was about to take ce, confirming his expulsion from the sect, his cultivation level had shot up.

    Three months ago, Chen Fan killed Liao Feng and hid in the Qingyang Mountain Range. At that time, Qin Changkong was worried about Chen Fan¡¯s safety and didn¡¯t think about how he had killed Liao Feng.

    However, upon reflection, suspicion had arisen.

    Now that he was observing Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, he realized Chen Fan had advanced from the Body Refinement realm to the peak of the fifth level in less than three months.

    This advancement speed was countless times more monstrous than Duan Jingtian, renowned as the one-in-a-century genius of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Uncle Qin, you know what my situation was like before. I''ll be honest with you," Chen Fan began. "Three months ago, Liao Feng blocked me off on a mountain path and wanted to snatch my primeval stones. I refused to give him and was beaten up. To make matters worse, I was even struck by lightning. My luck couldn''t have been worse. However, when I regained consciousness, I discovered that my dantian and my meridians were open, enabling me to cultivate.¡±

    ¡°Then I went to the Martial Arts Pavilion to pick a martial art. I advanced to the third level using the primeval stones I¡¯ve saved up over thest three years. You know what happened after that. Liao Feng came to my residence to rob my primeval stones. I couldn¡¯t take it lying down and killed him ording to the sect rules. Then I went into hiding in the Qingyang Mountain Range...¡±

    Chen Fan roughly recounted what had happened, deliberately omitting the most crucial part¡ªthe Heaven Seizing Art.

    It wasn¡¯t that he couldn¡¯t trust Qin Changkong, but rather that the Heaven Seizing Art was too extraordinary.

    As the saying goes, "The walls have ears."

    There were numerous experts in the Spring Autumn Sect, each with amazing techniques. Who knew if a random sect elder out on a stroll would overhear him if he said it out loud?

    It would be a catastrophe.

    Chen Fan was still weak, so hecked the strength to protect such a heaven-defying cultivation technique.

    Sometimes, peoplemitted no sin other than possessing a treasure. Although Chen Fan had never seen it, he had heard countless stories about it.

    Seeing the sincere look on Chen Fan¡¯s face, Qin Changkong pondered for a moment. ¡°You brat, what do you mean unlucky? You¡¯ve clearly received blessings from a disaster. The lightning strike didn¡¯t kill you and even opened up your dantian, allowing you to cultivate. You''ve stumbled upon some incredible luck, you know?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled, embarrassed. He could hear how happy Qin Changkong was for him in his words.

    ¡°This is good. You¡¯re about to advance to the sixth level. Give it your best at the Outer Sect Grand Competition with that kind of cultivation. Perhaps you can enter the top 100 and earn great rewards from the sect. Very good. Your father will surely be thrilled if he learns about this news.¡±

    ¡°Uncle Qin, I definitely won¡¯t disappoint you or Father.¡±

    Chen Fan clenched his fist. His goal wasn¡¯t the top 100, but the top 10. He wanted to astound the world in one fell swoop and soar to new heights.

    ¡°And there¡¯s also that Zhong Li. He¡¯s too damnable. I¡¯ll definitely kill him when my cultivation advances further. He dared to humiliate you and Senior Sister, damn it. Damn it, he must die!¡±

    Chen Fan''s voice turned into a low growl as he expressed his determination.

    Qin Changkong treated him very well, and Chen Fan considered him as family.

    The same was true for Qin Yao. Chen Fan''s feelings for her had transformed after that night. He now saw her as his woman, not just as a Senior Sister.

    How could he not be angry if his kin were humiliated by others?

    He only hated himself for not being strong enough. He yearned to tear Zhong Li apart to quell his hatred.

    Nevertheless, in his heart, Chen Fan had already marked Zhong Li as someone who must die.

    ¡°Ah, Xiaofan, I have to remind you.¡± Qin Changkong¡¯s expression abruptly became solemn.

    Chen Fan looked at Qin Changkong with a puzzled look.

    ¡°Do you know Zhong Li¡¯s true identity?¡± Qin Changkong asked.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t he an outer sect disciple and that whatever Outer Sect Heaven¡¯s Alliance Leader?¡± Chen Fan answered with uncertainty.

    ¡°Right, but that¡¯s notpletely correct.¡±

    Qin Changkong looked at Chen Fan and continued, ¡°Looks like you still don¡¯t know the true meaning of the words Heaven¡¯s Alliance. The Heaven¡¯s Alliance is one of the organizations the Spring Autumn Sect disciples formed, and they are very powerful.¡±

    ¡°And you must have heard of the true leader of Heaven''s Alliance: the current number one disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, Duan Jingtian!¡±

    Chen Fan was immediately stunned, frozen in ce as the name Duan Jingtian left Qin Changkong''s lips. He stared wide-eyed in disbelief.

    Duan Jingtian, as his name implied, was a cultivator who shocked the heavens. His talent was unparalleled, and he was the pride of the Spring Autumn Sect,manding the admiration and reverence of countless disciples.

    Rumors had it that he started cultivating at the age of twelve, opened his dantian to gather qi at thirteen, advanced to the Yuanfu realm and created his primeval vessel at fifteen. Now, at just 20 years old, his cultivation had reached the Core Formation realm, surpassing even some of the sect''s elders. His exceptional talent had made him famous throughout the Chu Empire.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian... it¡¯s actually him...¡±

    Chen Fan only returned to his senses after a while. His throat tightened, and he swallowed hard, disying his immense shock.

 Chapter 35 - Pressure

    <h4>Chapter 35 - Pressure</h4>

    ¡°Now you know why Zhong Li acts so arrogantly.¡± Qin Changkong, feeling somewhat helpless, exined to Chen Fan the reason behind Zhong Li''s arrogant behavior.

    Despite being an expert in the Yuanfu realm and capable of easily killing Zhong Li, Qin Changkong didn''t dare to do so because Zhong Li was a member of Heaven''s Alliance.

    Being the alliance leader for the outer sect held significant authority within the Spring Autumn Sect, simr to that of amander.

    In the whole Spring Autumn Sect, no matter the outer or inner sect, from elders to disciples, showed utmost respect to Heaven''s Alliance.

    Even the Outer Sect Master had to give Zhong Li some face, not because of Zhong Li himself, but because of his connection to Duan Jingtian.

    Bing a member of Heaven''s Alliance was a coveted status that all disciples aspired to achieve, and it came with a sense of pride. Of course, not just anyone could be one of their members.

    Once someone attained the status of being a Heaven''s Alliance member or became affiliated with them, they could essentially act freely within the sect, regardless of their cultivation level.

    A bitter smile appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s face as he realized his previous misconception.

    When he had killed Liao Feng, thetter used the Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s name to threaten Chen Fan. He hadn''t taken it seriously then, assuming that the leader of the Heaven''s Alliance would, at best, be a Qi Grandmaster.

    While he wasn''t entirely mistaken, as Zhong Li was indeed a Qi Grandmaster, he was merely the alliance leader for the outer sect.

    The true leader of Heaven''s Alliance, revered by countless disciples and feared like a god, was Duan Jingtian¡ªa man who shone as brightly as the sun.

    Even when Chen Fan was the weakest among the outer sect disciples and was the target of bullying, he had never heard of Zhong Li but frequently heard Duan Jingtian¡¯s name.

    He, too, used to blindly idolize Duan Jingtian, unaware that he was the actual leader of Heaven''s Alliance. Now, Chen Fan had unknowingly stirred up trouble with Zhong Li, the alliance leader for the outer sect, and had even taken the life of one of their members, Liao Fan.

    Chen Fan felt like an insurmountable mountain loomed over him, filling him with despair. This mountainous presence belonged to none other than Duan Jingtian.

    That name weighed heavily on his heart.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, Duan Jingtian, Duan Jingtian...¡± Chen Fan whispered. Suddenly, he raised his head. ¡°So what if it¡¯s Duan Jingtian? He can make others look up to him, worship him, and establish the Heaven¡¯s Alliance because of his strength. But if I surpass him, it will be him looking up to me, worshiping me, and fearing me!¡±

    <i>I don¡¯t like causing trouble, but I am not afraid of it either. So what if he is Duan Jingtian? If he dares to provoke me, there wille a day when I will bring him down from his pedestal and trample him beneath my feet.</i>

    <i>For three years, I¡¯ve suffered countless humiliation and bullying. Even when I had no power, those people couldn¡¯t break my spirit or make me bow down to them. Now that I¡¯m practicing a heaven-defying cultivation technique, I am like an eagle soaring in the sky. I am a dragon swimming in the depths of the sea. I am destined to rise, and that makes it even more impossible for me to submit.</i>

    <i>Martial artists should have a backbone, arrogance, and ambition. Without these three qualities, how can I call myself a martial artist? Martial arts embody courage and a relentless pursuit of improvement. Poverty and a lower status can¡¯t shake their wills, and they mustn¡¯t submit to the mighty.</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura burst forth like a sharp sword piercing the heavens, making the winds shift and the clouds move.

    ¡°This...¡±

    Qin Changkong¡¯s expression changed watching this scene unfold.

    Although he couldn¡¯t hear Chen Fan¡¯s thoughts, he keenly sensed an indescribable transformation taking ce within him.

    At the Martial Arts Pavilion:

    The Pavilion Guard Elder was leaning against the steps, sleeping. Suddenly, he raised his head and looked somewhere. It was as if he could prate space and distance to watch Chen Fan''s residence.

    ¡°Good! Good! Good! He¡¯s indeed a good seedling. If he is nurtured properly, perhaps...¡±

    The Pavilion Guard Elder¡¯s eyes flickered brightly, seemingly having witnessed the birth of a potential genius. However, just as quickly as the excitement appeared, it dissipated.

    ¡°Forget it. It¡¯s better to keep observing.¡±

    ......

    Having figured out the crucial point and solidified his inner resolve, Chen Fan seemed somewhat different.

    The imposing silhouette of Duan Jingtian that had loomed over his heart vanished without a trace.

    It was the baptism of his mind, leaving Chen Fan feeling purified and fresh.

    His thoughts were clear and focused, and the barrier separating him from the sixth level seemed to have shattered. All he needed was sufficient primeval qi to advance his cultivation level immediately.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you just...¡± Qin Changkong, astonished by the sudden change in Chen Fan, looked at him in disbelief, unsure of what had just happened.

    Chen Fan smiled, ¡°It¡¯s nothing, Uncle Qin. I have simply gained rity and resolved to reach the heights that Duan Jingtian currently upies. In fact, I believe I can surpass him in the future.¡±

    Qin Changkong was momentarily stunned; soon, a smile spread across his face as he patted Chen Fan''s shoulder. ¡°Good. It''smendable to have such ambitions. Uncle Qin will wait for this day to arrive.¡±

    ¡°But right now, you¡¯ve offended Zhong Li. So, every outer sect member of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance will target you at the Outer Sect Grand Competition. And there¡¯s also Zhao Hu¡¯s matter. I know Chen Changfeng is behind the three tigers of the outer sect.¡±

    ¡°Chen Changfeng¡¯s background isn¡¯t simple, either. Although he isn¡¯t someone from Heaven¡¯s Alliance, he¡¯s the grandson of an inner sect elder and should not be taken lightly. I heard Chen Changfeng is in secluded cultivation, attempting to break through to the eighth level. You must be careful if you encounter him at the Outer Sect Grand Competition.¡±

    ¡°Mhm, I know.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    Indeed, he was feeling some pressure in his heart.

    Although his cultivation couldn¡¯t be considered weak among outer sect disciples, he wasn¡¯t at the top either.

    Take Zhong Li, for example. With his Qi Grandmaster cultivation, he could injure and kill Chen Fan using only his aura. If they ran into each other at the Outer Sect Grand Competition, Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t be a match for him, even if he broke through to the sixth or the seventh level.

    There was also Chen Changfeng, the grandson of an inner sect elder. His background wasn¡¯t ordinary, either. He was most likely much stronger than others of the same cultivation level. If Chen Fan were to encounter him, it would be equally dangerous.

    With these thoughts in mind, Chen Fan felt tremendous pressure weighing on him despite his determined mindset.

    <i>I¡¯m still weak. I can¡¯t rx at all. Keep cultivating. It¡¯s like rowing a boat against the current. If I¡¯m not advancing, then I¡¯m falling back. I have to maintain a sense of urgency at all times.</i>

    <i>But this pressure can also be a good thing. It fuels my motivation. I still have a few days. I¡¯ll try to increase my cultivation as much as possible during this period. By then, I¡¯ll at least have some confidence, even if I¡¯m against Zhong Li or Chen Changfeng.</i>

    Chen Fan thought to himself.

    ¡°Alright, Xiaofan. I won¡¯t say much else. If youe across Zhong Li or Chen Changfeng at the Outer Sect Grand Competition, admit defeat immediately. As long as the verdant mountain remains, there¡¯ll always be wood to burn. You understand the meaning of this idiom, right?¡± Qin Changkong advised thoughtfully.

    The young tend to be proud and hot-blooded, often acting impulsively and losing their lives easily. Therefore, he had to remind Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan understood Qin Changkong¡¯s good intentions. He smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Uncle Qin. I¡¯m not that stupid. Refusing to admit defeat when I can¡¯t win and waiting for them to kill me? That¡¯s stupidity, not pride.¡±

    ¡°Good. It¡¯s good that you understand.¡±

    Qin Changkong smiled in relief. He stuffed the cloth pouch into Chen Fan¡¯s bosom and said, ¡°There are still a few more days. Cultivate well. I¡¯ll get going first.¡±

 Chapter 36 - Senior Sister, I Will Take Responsibility!

    <h4>Chapter 36 - Senior Sister, I Will Take Responsibility!</h4>

    A secluded forest, outer sect¡¯s rear mountain:

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh...</i>

    A strong wind whistled, making the trees sway and the fallen leaves dance. Amidst this natural symphony, a human silhouette moved swiftly, resembling a ghost.

    The air currents followed each step of the ghost, lifting the fallen leaves and creating a mesmerizing spectacle before they gently descended to the ground.

    <i>Swoosh.</i>

    This silhouette suddenly darted out from the trees, rushing toward arge stone about three meters tall. With a surge of his primeval qi, he swung his arm and struck the stone with great force, making his primeval qi explode upon impact.

    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>

    Cracking noises rang out. A palm print appeared on the rock, more than an inch deep, with tiny fissures spreading out like a spider web.

    Chen Fan slowly turned around, exhaling a long breath of air.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The three-meter-tall stone crumbled momentster; it was reduced to rubble, creating a dust cloud several meters high.

    Chen Fan''s breathing became steady as the surge of primeval qi in his dantian filled him with vitality. He had advanced to the sixth level.

    The mental baptism three days ago had shattered the membrane keeping him from the sixth level. Two days ago, Chen Fan spent 300 primeval stones and sessfully advanced his cultivation, greatly improving his strength.

    Moreover, aside from his cultivation level, his mastery of Ghostly Shadow Steps was also steadily progressing. Now that he had minor mastery of the skill, he could transform into a ghostly blur, moving with unpredictable speed and agility.

    Regrettably, the Myriad Elephants Divine Art was still stuck at the thirdyer, the peak of Strength Refining. He hadn¡¯t advanced to the Bone Tempering realm yet.

    He felt that tempering his physique through external forces alone would not be enough to break through this bottleneck. He needed another fortuitous encounter to make further progress.

    Although he felt anxious, Chen Fan understood that rushing such matters would be futile. He had to slowly think of a solution.

    ¡°I will practice the Thunderp Sword and the Golden Origin Palm for a bit longer, then go check how Xiaobai is doing.¡±

    Chen Fan looked around because Xiaobai was none other than Qin Yao.

    <i>Crackle! Crackle!</i>

    Thunderous cracks reverberated through the forest soon

    Chen Fan wielded his sword, its de shing like lightning as he executed swift and powerful strikes. The Liao Fan¡¯s Thunderp Sword unleashed its full potential under Chen Fan''s skillful control.

    ¡°Infinite Thunderp!¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan swung his arm. Streaks of primeval qi passed through the sword¡¯s de, condensing into extremely lethal sword light, shooting out. The forest became a blur of sword movements, apanied by shes of lightning.

    The sound of wind whistling rang throughout the whole forest.

    asionally, sword qi surged like lightning, and golden light shimmered like a Buddha''s radiance.

    The Thunderp Sword and the Golden Origin Palm were both loot Chen Fan obtained from fighting others. They were both upper-dirt tier martial arts with extraordinary power, but practicing them wasn¡¯t easy. Despite his enhancedprehension ability, Chen Fan had only achieved minor mastery in both skills.

    Of course, this was already enough to shock everyone.

    The higher the tier of a martial art, the more difficult it was to master. This was an indisputable fact.

    In the outer sect, even top disciples like Zhong Li and Chen Changfeng needed about a year to achieve major mastery in upper-dirt tier martial arts techniques, and reaching minor mastery would take them at least six months.

    However, Chen Fan had practiced these two martial skills simultaneously for less than a month and had already achieved minor mastery¡ªa feat that showcased his monstrous talent.

    After Chen Fan was done practicing, he sat on the ground in the lotus position and took out primeval stones, absorbing them to recover his primeval qi.

    Afterward, he went to a nearby river, where he indulged in a refreshing bath and changed into clean attire. He then headed toward Qin Changkong¡¯s residence.

    As an outer sect elder, Qin Changkong lived deep in the outer sect, upying an individual loft that boasted an elegant andfortable environment far superior to Chen Fan''s modest dwelling.

    On his way there, Chen Fan encountered several outer sect disciples. When they saw him, they all stopped in ce and pointed fingers at him, discussing in whispers.

    ¡°That¡¯s him, Chen Fan. I heard he was a martial arts trash just three months ago, but now he''s be a sudden genius. His cultivation is at the peak of the fifth level, and he even killed that bully Zhao Hu.¡±

    ¡°I heard he used some unknown methods to kill Liao Feng, then escaped into Qingyang Mountain Range. There, he found some relics by sheer luck and gained tremendous benefits, propelling his progress.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? But I heard he can now cultivate because he was struck by lightning. Not only did he survive, but the lightning strike also opened his dantian.¡±

    ¡°Is that true?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s true. I witnessed it myself. Liao Feng tried to snatch his primeval stones, but then he was struck by lightning and was burnt to a crisp. I even went there to see it for myself. I didn¡¯t expect him to receive a blessing from a disaster.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s nothing much. I¡¯ve read in some ancient records that some lucky people not only survived lightning strikes but also experienced physique tempering and even mutations in their primeval qi consequently.¡±

    ¡°Looks like he''s going to make a ssh at the Outer Sect Grand Competition. He has a good chance of securing a spot in the top 100 with his cultivation. It''s like a salted fishing back to life.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy. Senior Brother Zhong Li has made it clear that he won''t go easy on him during thepetition. If he¡¯s unlucky, he¡¯ll die at thepetition and won¡¯t get to rise to the skies.¡±

    ......

    Evidently, Chen Fan had gained fame within the outer sect, although he was already somewhat of a "celebrity" before.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t care about the people pointing fingers at him. He walked past them with his head held high and his steps light, full of vigor, and an extraordinary temperament.

    ¡°Tch, what¡¯s he acting so smug for? Didn¡¯t he just get lucky in a disaster? Acting like he¡¯s all that.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right? If it weren¡¯t for Elder Qin showing up, Senior Brother Zhong Li would have killed him. I would have liked to see him smug then.¡±

    Some voices rang out, reeking with jealousy. They were jealous of Chen Fan¡¯s good fortune and wished they had experienced such fortuitous encounters instead.

    ......

    ¡°Kiki, Kikiki.¡±

    Chen Fan arrived at Qin Changkong¡¯s loft. Suddenly, a monkey¡¯s screeching reached his ears, and a white blur darted out of the loft. It was Xiaobai.

    Following Xiaobai, Qin Yao emerged from the loft as well. Seeing Chen Fan standing there, she momentarily froze before she calmly said, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°I...¡±

    Chen Fan was at a loss for words but blurted, ¡°I came to visit Xiaobai.¡±

    ¡°Kiki?¡± Xiaobai looked at him doubtfully, asking him if that was true.

    However, Chen Fan ignored him; his gaze remained on Qin Yao. After a bit, he asked, ¡°Senior Sister, how are you doing?¡±

    ¡°Kikiki.¡±

    Xiaobai cried out angrily, seemingly calling Chen Fan a big liar. He wasn¡¯t here to see him at all. Then, he jumped into Qin Yao¡¯s arms and sprawledzily.

    Qin Yao cradled Xiaobai, looking around, then said stiffly, ¡°I¡¯m very well.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s good then.¡±

    Immediately, the atmosphere sank.

    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, then you should go back,¡± Qin Yao said, turned around, and walked into the residence, carrying Xiaobai.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze dimmed. He turned around and walked two steps, then paused. He suddenly turned around and said, ¡°Senior Sister, I will take responsibility!¡±

    After saying that, his figure flitted, quickly disappearing from sight.

    Qin Yao shook. From the dim lighting, one could see a bright smile blooming on her face.

 Chapter 37 - The Grand Competition Begins

    <h4>Chapter 37 - The Grand Competition Begins</h4>

    <i>ng! ng! ng!</i>

    The sound of the bell spread throughout the entire outer sect melodiously.

    On this day, every outer sect disciple came out from their residences and hurriedly gathered at the outer sect za.

    It was the day of the Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    Young disciples from the outer sect formed groups and made their way on the mountain path, traveling together.

    ¡°There¡¯s so many people!¡± Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but exim when he arrived at the outer sect za.

    The za was full of people. Heads bobbed up and down, filling the area. At least 10,000 people had gathered here.

    It was said that the Spring Autumn Sect had slightly more than 13,000 outer sect disciples. Only during the triennial Outer Sect Grand Competition did everyone assemble in one ce, fiercelypeting against each other, with some shining brightly.

    Even the disciples who usually trained outside the sect would rush back before thepetition began to participate and assess the results of their three years of training.

    Ten massive fighting arenas had been constructed in the center of the za.

    Each fighting arena was spacious, about three meters tall, and a hundred meters long and wide. It provided ample space for Qigong realm martial artists to engage in intensebat.

    The ten fighting arenas were lined up in a row, looking very impressive, and the outer sect¡¯s top 10 disciples would be decided on them.

    Surrounding the arenas were numerous seats for spectators to sit and watch the battles.

    The seats were already filled with people, including elders, executives, and even inner sect disciples.

    As an outer sect elder, Qin Changkong was also among them.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t have many friends in the outer sect. He could only find a corner to stand in, waiting for the grandpetition to begin. The others gathered in small groups, eagerly discussing the uing event.

    ¡°I''ve heard that the sect is offering generous rewards this time. Every participant in the top 10 will be awarded 10,000 primeval stones, a bottle of Qi Gathering Pills, a bottle of Qi Recovery Pills, and a bottle of Recovery Pills. Not only that, I heard rumors saying they will also get to practice a quasi-profound tier martial art.¡±

    ¡°Our sect wants to produce more geniuses in the inner sect for the uing Grand Sect Conference of the Great Chu Empire. They wouldn''t be stingy in rewarding the top performers, as it would enhance our sect''s reputation. After all, the top 10 can enter the inner sect after the new year.¡±

    ¡°I''m afraid that the Heaven''s Alliance, led by Senior Brother Zhong Li, will im more than half of the top 10 positions, leaving only a few spots for others, maybe just two or three.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? But we can''t do much about it. Senior Brother Duan Jingtian founded the Heaven''s Alliance, and every disciple aspires to join it. People like us aren¡¯t even qualified to be errand boys of the alliance; only those with decent talent and strength can enter.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what kind of results Chen Fan will get. He killed Zhao Hu in front of people half a month ago and had disyed extraordinary strength, standing toe to toe with sixth-level martial artists at the very least. He should be able to enter the top 100.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, things won¡¯t be so easy for him. He offended both Senior Brother Zhong Li and Senior Brother Chen Changfang. One of them is the alliance leader for the outer sect, and the other is the grandson of an inner sect elder. I think things won¡¯t end well for him in this Outer Sect Grand Competition. His prominence will be a short-lived one.¡±

    ¡°Hmph! Top 100? I¡¯m afraid he won¡¯t even get to keep his life intact! This person is arrogant and cocky, even daring to talk back and humiliate Senior Brother Zhong Li to his face! The Heaven¡¯s Alliance has numerous seventh and eighth-level Qigong experts. Will they let him off?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true. Of all people, he had to offend Senior Brother Zhong Li. He¡¯s simply courting death.¡±

    ......

    Countless whispers filled the air as the outer sect disciples conversed among themselves. Chen Fan was stuck within the crowd, unaffected by the surroundingmotion, as serene and pure as the untouched snow, impervious to external influences.

    Suddenly, the crowd erupted in exmations.

    ¡°Look, Senior Brother Lu Yun and Senior Sister Mei Ling are here.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s also Senior Brother Wei Rufeng.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brothers Mu Chen and Gu Zhan are also here.¡±

    ¡°So strong!¡±

    The noise grew louder as everyone turned their heads toward the mountain path outside the za.

    Chen Fan was no exception, following the crowd¡¯s gaze and looking over.

    There, a group of four young men and one woman were walking together.

    Each of them possessed their own unique charm¡ªsome were handsome and refined, others tall and imposing, while some exuded grace and beauty.

    The five each had different demeanor, but there was onemon trait among them¡ªtheir powerful auras. They were all powerful cultivators.

    Qi currents swirled around them, a characteristic only seen in Qigong martial artists at the seventh level or above.

    Their auras were deep, like an abyss, capable of erupting with violent powers at any moment. The other disciples were far from beingparable to them.

    ¡°They¡¯re all so strong!¡±

    Chen Fan thought to himself, his eyebrows raised as he watched the five from afar.

    Under the watchful gazes of the crowd, the five martial artists made their way to the za.

    ¡°Did any expert pop up in the outer sect recently?¡±

    Gu Zhan, towering over two meters tall like an iron tower, casually asked as he scanned the entire za.

    ¡°I have heard about someone named Chen Fan. He is stirring up a storm in the outer sect. He killed the boss of the three tigers, Zhao Hu, in front of many people and had a small confrontation with Zhong Li,¡± said one of the youths with a fairplexion, Lu Yun.

    Lu Yun''s cultivation was unfathomable, and he could make it into the top ten in the Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    Gu Zhan, seemingly unconcerned, said, ¡°Zhao Hu is nothing. Only the man standing behind him, Chen Changfeng, counts for something. As for Chen Fan, his strength is at the peak of the sixth level at best. The five of us can easily suppress him with just one hand.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true. Chen Fan doesn''t pose a threat to us. Our opponents are those guys from Heaven¡¯s Alliance.¡±

    The five stood there, chatting casually.

    The crowd soon fell silent; suddenly, they erupted intomotion again.

    ¡°The Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s people are here!¡±

    ¡°Look, Senior Brother Zhong Li is here. He¡¯s already a Qi Grandmaster. Although thepetition will only determine the top ten, he¡¯s undoubtedly the number one among them¡ªthe number one of the outer sect!¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s also Senior Brothers Fei Kuang, Yang Feng, He Junyang, and Senior Sister Bing Ye.¡±

    ¡°So many experts! As expected of Heaven¡¯s Alliance members. Every one of them looks so vigorous and strong. At this Outer Sect Grand Competition, they¡¯ll take all the glory and upy more than half the top 10 spots.¡±

    The crowd was heating up.

    Among them were numerous infatuated female disciples, their faces flushed with excitement as they openly professed their love.

    After all, every disciple hoped to be a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance, but not everyone could have their wishe true.

    A big group of Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were walking toward the za on the mountain path.

    This group¡¯s numbers weren¡¯t small, around three to four hundred people, approaching majestically. Their expressions exuded pride, and their auras intertwined as if they were an unstoppable force capable of shaking the very foundations of the world.

    Walking at the front most was a dashing youth in white, his expression cold, his face sharp and chiseled. This person was none other than Zhong Li, the alliance leader for the outer sect.

    Walking half a step behind him on both sides were six young men and women, each emanating powerful auras with qi currents flowing around them. They appeared extraordinary, their gazes sharp and piercing.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell onto Zhong Li, sweeping over and looking behind him.

    His pupils involuntarily contracted as he truly grasped the deep foundations of the Heaven''s Alliance. And yet, this was merely the outer sect''s Heaven''s Alliance. One could only imagine the power and cultivation levels of the members within the inner sect.

 Chapter 38 - I Wish You Good Luck

    <h4>Chapter 38 - I Wish You Good Luck</h4>

    Several hundred members of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance arrived grandiosely, strutting with their heads held high with extraordinary momentum. Many people gave way and cleared a wide path for them.

    It just so happened that Chen Fan was in the middle of them.

    Coincidentally, Chen Fan found himself in their path. He didn¡¯t move, facing hundreds of Heaven''s Alliance members alone, appearing remarkably conspicuous.

    It seemed as though one man was defying ten thousand. [1]

    Chen Fan, naturally, had no intention of retreating, as doing so would imply weakness. How could he stillpete at the Outer Sect Grand Competition, then?

    Moreover, he was at odds with the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Wouldn¡¯t giving way to his enemy be akin to pping his own face?

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    In an instant, countless gazes fell on Chen Fan.

    These gazes belonged not only to Heaven''s Alliance members but also to the surrounding crowd and the elders and the executives upying the observation seats.

    However, Chen Fan stood there, unabashed and calm, as if everything was copacetic.

    ¡°This guy... the fights haven¡¯t even started, but he''s already defying the Heaven''s Alliance. He¡¯s wild!¡±

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re overthinking. I bet he¡¯s scared stiff seeing the Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s majesty. That¡¯s why he¡¯s standing there like a block of wood.¡±

    ¡°Just watch. This guy has be a target of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Although they can¡¯t teach him a lesson now, he won''t escape the humiliation Senior Brother Zhong Li and the others will inflict upon him.¡±

    ......

    As expected, a tall and robust man standing at Zhong Li''s left side stepped forward. Emitting an air of pride and arrogance, he casually assessed Chen Fan. "Kid, are you Chen Fan? To dare oppose our Heaven¡¯s Alliance! You have guts, but it''s a shame youck intelligence. Life and death are determined by fate; in this Outer Sect Grand Competition... Just know that weapons have no eyes. Pray that we don¡¯t meet in the arena because I want to slowly torture you and make you suffer before I kill you.¡±

    This man was Fei Kuang; as his name suggested, his arrogance was second to none. He hailed from a prominent martial arts family in White Stone City, which fell under Qingyang County¡¯s jurisdiction. Endowed with extraordinary talent, he practiced his n''s profound-tier qi cultivation technique and possessed a solid foundation. Few peers at the same cultivation level could match his prowess.

    Moreover, Fei Kuang looked up to Duan Jingtian as his idol.

    He was once granted an audience with Duan Jingtian, a fact he often boasted about. He despised nothing more than when others disrespected Heaven''s Alliance.

    From his point of view, disrespecting Heaven¡¯s Alliance was showing disrespect to Duan Jingtian. Anyone guilty of that deserved to die!

    ¡°Hehe, Fei Kuang, mind yournguage a little and adopt a more pleasant tone. Don¡¯t scare him. What if he directly forfeits?¡± said a youth holding a jade fan, approaching them with a smile.

    This person was He Junyang, nicknamed the Jade-faced yboy. He looked amiable; in reality, he was a smiling tiger who devoured his adversaries without leaving a trace.

    He had secretly dealt with numerous individuals in the outer sect, earning a reputation for his brutality.

    Although his words seemed to criticize Fei Kuang and favor Chen Fan, they wereced with taunts and mockery. He didn''t actually want Chen Fan to forfeit when the time came.

    ¡°Enough!¡±

    The handsome and dashing Zhong Li, dressed in white, spoke up.

    His words made the za immediately calm down, capturing everyone''s attention.

    He looked at Chen Fan and suddenly smiled, but his smile appeared eerie and vicious.

    ¡°I wish you good luck.¡±

    Zhong Li had said that casually, his words devoid of malice or arrogance. Yet, those simple words carried an unmistakable air of nonpareil confidence.

    He wished Chen Fan good luck, and the meaning behind those words was obvious.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shrank, feeling like a venomous snake was targeting him.

    It was not the barrage of verbal threats that posed the true danger, but rather those five in and simple words. Compared to the arrogant Fei Kuang, it seemed many times more dangerous.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A silhouette abruptly descended like a roc spreading its wings, turning into a tall, slender, handsome, yet sinister and venomous youth.

    ¡°It¡¯s Senior Brother Chen Changfeng!¡± the crowd eximed, recognizing him immediately.

    ¡°Looks like it¡¯s not just the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Chen Changfeng also wants to humiliate Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s his fault for killing Zhao Hu. Didn¡¯t he know the three tigers of the outer sect are Senior Brother Chen Changfeng¡¯s followers?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Killing Zhao Hu is the same as pping Senior Brother Chen Changfeng¡¯s face.¡±

    ¡°I heard Senior Brother Chen Changfeng was in secluded cultivation previously, trying to advance to the eighth level. I wonder if he seeded. If he did, getting a spot in the top 10 is almost a done deal.¡±

    ......

    ¡°Brat, how dare you kill someone under my, Chen Changfeng''s, protection. Good, very good. Just wait for my revenge.¡±

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s vicious gaze fell onto Chen Fan.

    As the grandson of an inner sect elder, Chen Changfengmanded respect even from Zhong Li, the alliance leader for the outer sect. Yet, Chen Fan had audaciously killed Zhao Hu in front of an audience, challenging Chen Changfeng''s authority.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed once more, staring at Chen Changfeng.

    A cold and dangerous aura emanated from Chen Changfeng, opening his pores as if he were being suffocated under the oppressive atmosphere.

    <i>Dangerous.</i>

    <i>Very dangerous.</i>

    It wasn¡¯t only Zhong Li and Fei Kuang¡¯s gang that was dangerous. Chen Changfeng was equally, if not more, dangerous than Fei Kuang.

    In the observation gallery, the elders and executives also focused their gazes on the unfolding scene.

    Qin Changkong wore a worried expression, and rightfully so. Heaven''s Alliance and Chen Changfeng had made their intentions clear.

    At the Outer Sect Grand Competition, injuries were inevitable, and even death wasn¡¯t all that umon. If Chen Fan were to encounter these people, his life would be in danger.

    ¡°Haha, Qin Changkong, that kid is rted to you, right? He¡¯s screwed now, being targeted by both Heaven''s Alliance and Chen Changfeng. Even if he survives, I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll be skinned alive,¡± said an outer sect elder who held a grudge against Qin Changkong, relishing the situation andughing heartily.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Qin Changkong harrumphed coldly with an ugly expression.

    However, Elder Sun didn¡¯t let up. ¡°Qin Changkong, as the elder in charge of the Resources Hall, you should have allocated the monthly resources to the disciples impartially. From what I heard, you¡¯ve always shown extra care to this Chen Fan, sometimes giving him an extra primeval stone or two. Heh, heh...¡±

    ¡°Nonsense! These are baseless usations!¡±

    Qin Changkong immediately became enraged upon hearing this and retorted, "Sun Wenshan, it seems to me that you are the one exploiting your position for personal gain. Is there anyone in the outer sect who is unaware that your son, Sun Youwei, epts missions from the outer sect but fails toplete them, only to miraculously seed when it involves you? Over the years, you¡¯ve abused your authority for your convenience, granting numerous privileges to your son secretly. Hehe, too bad your son is a good-for-nothing, only at the sixth level and progressing slowly even after stealing countless sect resources.¡±

    Sun Wenshan was struck in a sensitive spot. He immediately stood up and cursed, "Qin Changkong, you are the one spreading nderous remarks! You are unfit to be an elder!"

    ¡°I¡¯m not fit to be an elder? What about you? Justice is in the hearts of the people. It¡¯s precisely because of your selfish motives, Sun Wenshan, that you¡¯re still only a Qi Grandmaster even now,¡± Qin Changkong rebutted.

    ¡°You...¡±

    ¡°Enough!¡±

    A stern shout suddenly interrupted them, making Qin Changkong and Sun Wenshan pause. Seeing the person who spoke out, they didn¡¯t dare to continue bickering.

    ¡°As outer sect elders, you¡¯re here bickering in front of countless disciples. How unseemly of you!¡±

    The speaker was an elderly man with white hair and a beard, but hisplexion was healthy and his breathing steady, indicating profound qi cultivation.

    To silence a Yuanfu realm expert like Qin Changkong, his cultivation must also be in the Yuanfu realm at the very least. He was the outer sect¡¯s Grand Elder Su Yuntian.

    Under the Outer Sect Master, the Grand Elder¡¯s authority was the highest.

    Now that Su Yuntian had reprimanded them, Qin Changkong and Sun Wenshan both lowered their heads, resembling repentant children as they attentively listened to the scolding.

    1. Referencing a poem from Li Bai of the Tang Dynasty ?

 Chapter 39 - First Battle

    <h4>Chapter 39 - First Battle</h4>

    Chen Fan nced at Zhong Li, Chen Changfeng, and the others before walking away silently.

    Such asions didn¡¯t call for words¡ªthey called for strength. Ultimately, he would have to demonstrate his strength to prove himself.

    Moreover, even if he were to speak up, it would be nothing more than a joke to those listening.

    The most effective retaliation would be during the uing grandpetition.

    Zhong Li, Chen Changfeng, and their cohorts also refrained from further humiliating Chen Fan as it served no purpose.

    In their eyes, Chen Fan was already a dead man. If they came across him during thepetition, they would show him no mercy.

    ¡°Zhong Li, I didn¡¯t expect you to really step into the Qi Grandmaster realm!¡±

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s gaze fell onto Zhong Li, his eyes narrowing as he sensed the primeval qi surging within him like a roaring furnace.

    A Qi Grandmaster was an expert who had cultivated their Qigong to the level of a grandmaster.

    The next step involved primeval vessels in their dantian, condensing an immense primeval force, and ascending to the realm of expert qi cultivators.

    In the Yuanfu realm, martial artists had to condense primeval force into droplets brimming with terrifying energy and store them in their primeval vessel. Their powers were immense, letting them traverse the skies, soar over mountains and rivers, and wield power simr to a god¡¯s.

    Although Qi Grandmasters could also transform their primeval qi into wings, allowing them to run in the skies, they could only do it briefly due to the substantial energy consumption involved.

    If they exhausted their primeval qi, failing to keep up with the energy consumption, they could even fall to their deaths. Such incidents urred more frequently than one might think.

    Nevertheless, it was a realm that hundreds of millions of people dreamt of and pursued.

    Qi Grandmasters could ascend to the heavens with a single step,manding the weather as they pleased. Within the entire Great Chu Empire, they were regarded as masters and experts.

    After all, the Spring Autumn Sect had ten thousand outer sect disciples, yet only Zhong Li had be a Qi Grandmaster so far.

    Advancing to the ninth level from the eighth level was unimaginably difficult.

    Many peak eighth-level Qigong experts failed to cross this final boundary throughout their lives.

    This was also why Zhong Li could suppress and injure Chen Fan half a month ago with just his aura, potentially even killing him.

    If the difference between each small realm before Qi Grandmaster was tenfold, then the disparity between the eighth level and Qi Grandmaster would be thirtyfold or even fiftyfold.

    ¡°Hehe, I just got lucky. Chen Changfeng, you, on the other hand, are already at the eighth level. You will surely earn a spot in the outer sect¡¯s top 10.¡± Zhong Li smiled.

    Chen Changfeng swept his gaze across Fei Kuang, He Junyang, and the others. Eventually, his gaze returned to Zhong Li. ¡°Even though you managed to be a Qi Grandmaster a bit before me, I¡¯ll still fight you if we meet at the grandpetition. I¡¯ll see exactly how strong a Qi Grandmaster is.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s true, you¡¯ll find out," Zhong Li replied casually, his smile light.

    Watching Chen Changfang leave, Fei Kuang, standing next to Zhong Li, said with disdain, ¡°Hmph, that guy¡¯s hrious. What did he mean, ¡®a bit before him?¡¯ He just stepped into the eighth level; he is nowhere close to you. And he still dares to challenge you, Boss. Bing Ye and He Junyang are enough to take care of him easily.¡±

    He Junyangughed and said, ¡°Haha, why are you being so humble, Fei Kuang? You¡¯re already at the peak of the seventh level, and with your strong foundation, it¡¯s not like you can¡¯t fight against an eighth-level Qigong martial artist.¡±

    ......

    The entire outer sect za buzzed with activity, filled with people''s voices.

    Outer disciples gathered in groups, chatting or quietly recuperating their energy, eagerly awaiting the start of the grandpetition.

    Finally, after an hour, Grand Elder Su Yuntian stood up at the observation gallery.

    ¡°Silence!¡± Su Yuntian''s voice, though raised only slightly, resonated across the skies like thunder, reverberating in the ears of the crowd and showcasing his extraordinary cultivation.

    Immediately, the entire outer sect za fell silent. Even the proud Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were quiet.

    ¡°The Outer Sect Grand Competition, held once every three years, is a rare event that aims to assess the results of thest three years of your cultivation. Those who perform well will receive great rewards from the sect. I hope every one of you will do your best at thepetition and disy your strength to the fullest.¡±

    ¡°However, the world of martial arts is a harsh one, where strength reigns supreme. Our Spring Autumn Sect is not a sheltered haven that nurtures delicate flowers that can¡¯t withstand a little damage. Therefore, real swords and spears are used in the Outer Sect Grand Competition, but killing isn¡¯t forbidden. The heavens decide life and death.¡±

    ¡°So, if you feel your strength is insufficient, you have the option to forfeit and not take part in thepetition. In the fighting arena, you can also voluntarily admit defeat. Once you dere surrender, no one is allowed to deliver a killing blow. Anyone who vites this rule will face severe punishment, regardless of their status.¡±

    ¡°As per our longstanding tradition, the Outer Sect Grand Competition will be split into ten groups, following an elimination system. The winner stays, the loser is eliminated, and the cycle continues until the top 10 are decided for each group. These one hundred disciples will then enter the inner sect after the new year, bing inner sect disciples. Ultimately, the number one disciple from each group will be identified, and these ten individuals will be recognized as the outer sect''s top ten disciples, granting them entry to the blessednd for further training.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I won''t delve into the details as you should already be familiar with thepetition rules. Now, we¡¯ll draw lots to decide your groups.¡±

    Just as Su Yuntian was done speaking, tens of executives immediately walked up, each carrying arge cauldron, and in them were countless iron lots [1]for the disciples to draw from to ensure fairness.

    Soon, Chen Fan drew an iron lot. He was in the tenth group, number 345.

    With more than 13,000 disciples split into ten groups to do battle, each group would have more than 1,300 people.

    Holding his iron lot, Chen Fan walked to the bottom of the tenth fighting arena and waited quietly.

    The drawing of lots concluded swiftly; now, everyone knew which group they belonged to and their assigned number.

    Thepetition host, an elder, leaped into the air and announced, ¡°Now, let the Outer Sect Grand Competition begin.¡±

    ¡°First group, number 1 versus number 998.¡±

    ¡°Second group, number 453 versus number 1123.¡±

    ¡°Third group, number 32 versus number 698.¡±

    ......

    The disciples whose numbers were called quickly jumped onto the arena and engaged in a fierce battle with their opponents.

    For a time, each fighting arena shone brightly, and the resounding booms of shes filled the air.

    The Outer Sect Grand Competition was iparably cruel. Each participant had only one chance, and defeat meant elimination or even death.

    ¡°Tenth group, number 345 versus number 874.¡±

    The host¡¯s voice rang out again.

    Chen Fan entered the fighting arena with a calm expression.

    His opponent was a youth dressed in yellow, his figure tall andnky, his gaze a bit vicious, and his cultivation at the sixth level.

    Inside the observation gallery, Sun Wenshan¡¯s gaze fell onto the tenth fighting arena. When he saw the two participants were Chen Fan and his son, he immediately smiled coldly. ¡°Hehe, Qin Changkong, didn¡¯t you say my son is a good-for-nothing? This is perfect! I didn¡¯t expect my son to go against Chen Fan. Now, watch closely and see who¡¯s the real good-for-nothing.¡±

    He had indeed abused his position and helped Sun Youwei obtain plenty of benefits, and Sun Youwei¡¯s talent was indeed only average. However, how could he let anyone belittle his son?

    1. iron sticks withbels in a container ?

 Chapter 40 - One Punch to Kill

    <h4>Chapter 40 - One Punch to Kill</h4>

    Qin Changkong nced at Sun Wenshan from the corner of his eye and said, ¡°Good-for-nothings will always be good-for-nothings. Even if you drown your son in elixirs, he will remain a good-for-nothing.¡±

    ¡°Damn you!¡±

    Sun Wenshan''s eyebrows furiously shot up. While he acknowledged that his son, Sun Youwei, was useless, having his arch-nemesis, Qin Changkong, say it to his face felt like a violent p.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Sun Wenshan shot up to his feet, looked at Qin Changkong furiously, and said, ¡°Qin Changkong, do you dare make a bet with me?¡±

    ¡°What are we betting?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll bet on this match and see who wins. How about it?¡± Sun Wenshan said viciously, his expression looking somewhat savage.

    ¡°If my son wins, you¡¯ll give me your Realm Breaking Pill, and if Chen Fan wins, I¡¯ll give you my Bone Spirit me. Isn¡¯t your daughter Qin Yao an alchemy apprentice? After using the Bone Spirit me, she¡¯ll have an eighty percent chance of bing an Alchemist. Do you dare to bet with me?¡±

    ¡°This...¡±

    Qin Changkong hesitated for a moment.

    He was sure that Sun Youwei was undoubtedly a good-for-nothing. However, Sun Wenshan''s confident challenge made him uncertain about the situation.

    He could tell Chen Fan had broken through to the sixth level.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s reputation used to be worse than Sun Youwei¡¯s, not to mention he had just broken through. He was worried Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was still unstable, and he might not be a match for Sun Youwei.

    Qin Changkong had gotten the Realm Breaking Pill for Qin Yao. If she consumed the pill after advancing to Qi Grandmaster, her chances of advancing to the Yuanfu realm would increase by an additional 60%.

    Sun Wenshan had proposed this bet because he had long coveted Qin Changkong''s Realm Breaking Pill. If he could get his hands on it, Sun Wenshan would have a very high chance of breaking through to the Yuanfu realm.

    However, Sun Wenshan¡¯s offer was also very tempting.

    The Bone Spirit me was a type of primeval me, something that carried the essence of heaven and earth.

    Qin Yao had extraordinary talents in the path of alchemy. If she could fuse the Bone Spirit me with herself, she would have a chance to be a true Alchemist capable of refining pills.

    Moreover, Alchemists with a primeval me went further in the path of alchemy in the future, perhaps even bing a Grandmaster Alchemist, an existence respected by many.

    ¡°How about it? You don¡¯t dare to?¡± Sun Wenshan smiled coldly, a hint of mockery on his face.

    He wanted to taunt Qin Changkong into agreeing to the bet because his son was sure to win this match.

    ¡°Agree to it, Uncle Qin!¡± interjected a voice abruptly.

    It was Chen Fan.

    Although it was incredibly noisy in the za, Chen Fan had overheard Qin Changkong and Sun Wenshan¡¯s argument. This was the perfect opportunity for him to help Qin Yao win the Bone Spirit me.

    He wouldn¡¯t lose anyway.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Hearing this voice, Qin Changkong looked over and met Chen Fan¡¯s calm gaze.

    ¡°Haha, Qin Changkong, even Chen Fan is telling you to agree. Do you still not dare to? And you said that my son is a good-for-nothing. Looks like you¡¯re all talk. Where do you find the audacity to say something like that?¡±

    Sun Wenshan acted iparably arrogant, mocking Qin Changkong without holding back.

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll ept your bet!¡±

    Qin Changkong was feeling very frustrated inside being mocked like this. Since Chen Fan seemed confident about this, he might as well agree to the bet.

    If he lost, it would only be the loss of a Realm Breaking Pill, which, although valuable, would not leave him feeling disheartened.

    Moreover, with Qin Yao¡¯s talent, she could break through to the Yuanfu realm without a Realm Breaking Pill. It was only a matter of time.

    ¡°Haha, good! Grand Elder, please act as a witness for us in case someone refuses to honor their end of the bet after losing!¡± Sun Wenshanughed out loud as if he was guaranteed to win.

    ¡°Hmph, Sun Wenshan, don¡¯t me me for bullying the weak if you refuse to acknowledge your loss afterward.¡± Qin Changkong let out a cold harrumph and a cold light shed in his eyes.

    In the fighting arena:

    ¡°Trash, looks like you¡¯re very confident of yourself,¡± Sun Youwei looked at Chen Fan with a smile, ¡°But let me tell you howughable your idea is. Although we are both at the sixth level, I broke through six months ago. My cultivation runs deep, and I can freely utilize my primeval qi. You can''t match me. Furthermore...¡±

    Pausing momentarily, Sun Youwei smiled triumphantly and tore open his shirt, revealing a soft armor made from the scales of a Blood-pupiled ck Python.

    ¡°I have to thank you for bringing this Blood-pupiled ck Python scaled leather out for sale. My father bought it and helped me refine it into this imprable yet soft and scaly armor capable of withstanding attacks from even seventh-level experts. What do you have to fight against me?¡±

    The armor was made from the scaly leather Chen Fan had obtained from killing the Blood-pupiled ck Python. Its defensive powers were powerful; it was no wonder he was so confident.

    ¡°Haha, Qin Changkong, I¡¯ll ept your Realm Breaking Pill.¡± After Sun Youwei revealed his trump card, Sun Wenshan finally burst out inughter, looking incredibly smug.

    Meanwhile, Qin Changkong¡¯s face sank. The veins on his hand resting on the chair¡¯s arm popped up, his back straightened, and he trembled slightly. Soon, he said coldly, ¡°Well, very well, Sun Wenshan. You orchestrated this n, making your son wear that imprable soft armor, rendering him invulnerable to attacks from anyone at the sixth level. Well done, indeed!!¡±

    ¡°No, no, it¡¯s just that you, Qin Changkong, are too dumb,¡± Sun Wenshan mocked again.

    ¡°Trash, kneel and kowtow to me three times, then scram off the arena. I will spare you then. Otherwise, I cannot guarantee your survival. My fists don¡¯t have any eyes, you see.¡± Sun Youwei said arrogantly, his arrogance reaching the heavens.

    He acted like his soft armor could defend him against all attacks, making him invincible

    Chen Fan remained calm, looking indifferently at the arrogant Sun Youwei. ¡°So that¡¯s what you¡¯re relying on?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Are you scared now? Kneel if you are, and do as I said. Otherwise, it¡¯d be toote for regrets,¡± Sun Youwei said proudly.

    Below the arena, many disciples were also snickering to themselves.

    Sun Youwei was truly shameless to wear such armor. Even if he stood still and allowed Chen Fan to beat him up, it would likely be in vain.

    It was too shameless!

    ¡°Come on.¡±

    Chen Fan hooked his finger, taunting.

    Killing intent shed in Sun Youwei¡¯s eyes. His cultivation erupted as he said, ¡°Trash, looks like you no longer want to walk on the path of life I offered. Then, let me send you along on the path of death. I shall make my move and grant your wish, ending this cheap life of yours. You being alive in this world serve no purpose aside from wasting air.¡±

    As his words fell, his fingers violently grabbed at Chen Fan.

    Immediately, qi gathered and shot out from his fingertips, forming a three-meter-long primeval qi hook that wed at Chen Fan as if to rip out his heart. Sun Youwei looked cruel, not showing any mercy.

    ¡°Chen Fan, watch out!¡± Qin Changkong couldn¡¯t help but yell from the observation gallery when he saw this scene unfold.

    Chen Fan suddenly raised his head, his gaze iparably sharp like a sword. He was like a lion rousing from its sleep as his cold voice rang out.

    ¡°You think wearing a turtle shell will keep you safe? One punch is all I need to kill you!¡±

    Chen Fan shook as his words fell.

    With a boom, his cultivation erupted. A ring of airwaves surged beneath his feet, forming a whirling vortex that howled as he unleashed a punch.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The force in his punch was like a dragon, making the air tremble and instantly shattering Sun Youwei¡¯s qi w. Like a ferocious tiger devouring its prey, it lunged at Sun Youwei, threatening to tear through his scaly armor.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Sun Youwei was astonished and subconsciously held out his hands to block, but that instantly broke his arms.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>

    The fist collided with Sun Youwei, causing his soft armor to crumble under the immense force, emitting shattering noises. Fragments of the armor flew through the air,cerating Sun Youwei''s face.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    As the full force of the punch erupted, Sun Youwei couldn''t even utter a scream before he exploded, disintegrating into a mass of blood and flesh, apanied by a crimson mist.

    Chen Fan slowly retracted his fist, his primeval qi forming a barrier, protecting him from being tainted by Sun Youwei¡¯s fresh blood.

 Chapter 41 - Bone Spirit Flame

    <h4>Chapter 41 - Bone Spirit me</h4>

    ¡°No...¡±

    A mournful voice rang out from the observation gallery.

    It came from Sun Wenshan.

    The hubris he had disyed earlier had vanished, reced by sheer misery as he unleashed mournful cries.

    His son had been killed, struck down by Chen Fan with a single punch!

    <i>Woah woah woah!</i>

    Qin Changkong, Su Yuntian, and many others stood up, their gazes fixed on the tenth fighting arena, their expressions filled with shock.

    Despite holding esteemed positions as elders of the outer sect for many years, overseeing the affairs of the vast sect, they were profoundly shaken.

    Had an eighth-level martial artist blown up Sun Youwei with a single punch, they wouldn¡¯t have spared it a second nce. After all, it would have been within their expectations.

    However, Chen Fan, a sixth-level Qigong martial artist who, just three months ago, was still regarded as a martial arts trash, had aplished this. This turned the situation into something entirely different.

    Shock was the prevailing emotion coursing through their veins

    They weren¡¯t the only ones shocked. Even the disciples around the fighting arena were simrly astonished. The referee¡¯s mouth hung open wide, looking like he had just seen a ghost.

    ¡°Ahh! Little bastard, I¡¯m going to kill you! I¡¯ll kill you! You dare kill my son! I want you dead!¡±

    Sun Wenshan¡¯s furious promation rang in the area, his killing intent soaring to the heavens, sending shivers down the spines of those present.

    Filled with a burning desire to avenge his son by killing Chen Fan, he moved fast as lightning.

    Sun Youwei might have been a disappointment, but he was Sun Youwei¡¯s son, his one and only son.

    ¡°Audacious!¡± eximed Qin Changkong, his voice cold as he unleashed his Yuanfu realm aura, manifesting a terrifying qi pressure.

    Qin Changkong''s shout, infused with primal strength, surged toward Sun Wenshan, instantly dispersing the gathered qi.

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    Sun Wenshan shook and spat out a mouthful of fresh blood. He turned to look at Qin Changkong angrily, wanting to shred him to pieces.

    Even so, Qin Changkong was unmoved. With an icy expression, he said, ¡°Sun Wenshan, how dare you attempt to harm a disciple during the Outer Sect Grand Competition! It seems that after being an elder for so long, you no longer respect the sect''s rules! The Grand Elder is here, and you still dare act recklessly; you¡¯re simply revolting!¡±

    Qin Changkong had pinned Sun Wenshan with a grave usation, but he spoke the truth.

    At the Outer Sect Grand Competition, weapons would fly everywhere, and one''s well-being was not guaranteed. Sun Youwei was not as skilled as his opponent, yet he dared to taunt his opponent onstage. It was nothing short of seeking death. He died in vain, but his opponent could not be med for it.

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    Sun Wenshan spat out another mouthful of blood; his extreme anger agitated his heart. He pointed at Qin Changkong and said, ¡°You, you, you...!¡±

    ¡°Sun Wenshan, you were being unruly!¡± Su Yuntian finally said, his voice cold and his expression even more displeased.

    Had Sun Wenshan seeded in his attempt earlier, he would have seeded in trampling upon the sect''s rules. How would they keep the masses in check in the future, then?

    What message would it send to the outer sect disciples?

    That other lives were cannon fodder, but a sect elder¡¯s descendant was special, and no one was allowed to harm them?

    ¡°I...¡± Sun Wenshan spoke up, trying to exin himself.

    He finally regained hisposure, feeling cold sweat forming on his back.

    His anger had made him lose his rationality, leading him to lose control and try to kill Chen Fan, nearly making a grave mistake.

    If he had seeded in killing Chen Fan, he would not have been able to survive either.

    Not only would the sect have not shown him any leniency, but Qin Changkong also could have publicly executed him.

    ¡°No need for excuses. As an outer sect elder, you allowed your emotions to overpower you. I hereby strip you of your position as an elder and demote you to the rank of deacon. Additionally, you will be fined a year''s worth of sry. Do you understand the consequences?¡± Su Yuntian said coldly.

    Sun Wenshan lowered his head, his eyes shing with chilling intent, but he suppressed it and replied, "Yes, I understand."

    ¡°Good.¡± Su Yuntian nodded.

    Qin Changkong saw that the matter was settled, so he said coldly, ¡°Sun Wenshan, hand over your Bone Spirit me. I trust you won''t have the audacity to go back on your bet in front of the Grand Elder, will you?¡±

    ¡°You...¡±

    Sun Wenshan red at Qin Changkong, trembling violently.

    However, when he met Qin Changkong''s icy gaze, he had to reluctantly toss a crystal ball with a flick of his sleeve.

    Inside the crystal ball burned a greenish-white me that emitted a frigid aura instead of scorching heat.

    ¡°It really is the Bone Spirit me.¡± Qin Changkong grabbed the crystal ball. A smile appeared on his face as he looked at the me dancing inside the crystal ball. b

    Legend had it that the Bone Spirit me only materialized in mass graves, arising from abination of substances found in human skeletons, their grievances, and the primeval qi of heaven and earth.

    These mes didn¡¯t emit terrifying heat but were instead very cold, capable of freezing a person and sealing their soul in ice.

    Once caught in the grip of this me, it was incredibly challenging to extinguish, as it could even burn through primeval qi.

    ¡°Congrattions, Qin Changkong. If Qin Yao, that girl, sessfully fuses with this Bone Spirit me, her path to bing an Alchemist will be within reach. Looks like our Spring Autumn Sect will wee another Alchemist into our ranks in the future,¡± Su Yuntian said, smiling.

    Alchemists and Weaponsmiths had very high statuses in the Tianwu Continent since they could create items needed by martial artists.

    However, not even one in ten thousand martial artists could sessfully be Alchemists or Weaponsmiths.

    These individuals were considered the chosen ones, favored by the heavens, and wherever they went, they were treated as honored guests.

    Spring Autumn Sect might seem enormous, but they only had six or seven Alchemists.

    However, it was those handfuls of Alchemists who refined the pills supplied to the entire sect, meeting the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s needs. Their status surpassed that of elders and was on par with the Outer Sect Master.

    If Qin Yao seeded in merging with the Bone Spirit me and became a genuine Alchemist, her status within the Spring Autumn Sect would skyrocket. It would beparable to core disciples, perhaps even standing shoulder to shoulder with Duan Jingtian.

    It was equivalent to reaching the heavens with a single step!

    Being Qin Yao¡¯s father, Qin Changkong would also rise by virtue of his daughter. It was possible that he could ascend to the inner sect and be an inner sect elder.

    ¡°Haha, I hope Grand Elder¡¯s auspicious wordse true.¡± Qin Changkong said,ughing. He was in an excellent mood.

    However, merging with a primeval me was no simple matter.

    Many people have tried fusing with primeval me, but ny percent of them were devoured by the mes instead, leaving nothing behind. It was a hazardous thing to do.

    Although he¡¯d now obtained the Bone Spirit me, for the sake of Qin Yao¡¯s safety, he needed to make a lot of preparations.

    ¡°Grand Elder, I still have some things to tend to, so I¡¯ll be leaving first,¡± Sun Wenshan said, bowing respectfully to Su Yuntian before departing.

    Before leaving, he cast a long, prating gaze at Chen Fan. His icy stare was filled with a palpable intent to kill, making Chen Fan feel as if his soul had frozen.

    Chen Fan knew that killing Sun Youwei had sown the seeds of hatred between them. However, he had no regrets.

    If he hadn''t encountered those fortuitous opportunities and remained an ordinary sixth-level Qigong cultivator, he would have been the one to perish fighting Sun Youwei, who wore the soft, scaly armor.

    Sun Wenshan wouldn¡¯t have acted this way then. He would have encouraged Sun Youwei, praising him for doing a good job winning the Realm Breaking Pill for him.

    As for Sun Wenshan''s grudge against him, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t worried at all.

    If he entered the top ten and received generous rewards from the sect, his cultivation would advance even further. At that point, even if Sun Wenshan was a Qi Grandmaster, so what?

    He wasn¡¯t afraid!

 Chapter 42 - Winning Consecutively with Ease

    <h4>Chapter 42 - Winning Consecutively with Ease</h4>

    ¡°That¡¯s cruel. Too cruel!¡±

    ¡°Did I see wrongly? He killed Sun Youwei with a single punch, even while he wore armor? How terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, that soft-scaled armor could block attacks from a seventh-level martial artist, but a punch from Chen Fan shattered it. Is he really at the sixth level and not the eighth?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s incredible! Not to mention the sixth level, even seventh-level martial artists would have found it hard to kill Sun Youwei in one blow. Only those at the eighth level or above can do it.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan must have hidden his cultivation level. He is likely at the eighth level, not the sixth.¡±

    ¡°You fool, you can¡¯t tell the depths of Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, but surely Elder Sun can! If Chen Fan was really eighth level, would he have suggested the bet with Elder Qin, losing both fortune and son?¡±

    ¡°In that case, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation is at the sixth level, but his actualbat strength is on par with the eighth level?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not it, either. Although Sun Youwei was wearing the soft-scaled armor, safeguarding him from the attacks of seventh-level experts, it could only protect him from three hits at the most. Chen Fan should be on par with the stronger seventh-level experts. The gap between his strength and that of an eighth-level expert should be significant.¡±

    ......

    The crowd reacted to the situation and began discussing among themselves, shocked by Chen Fan¡¯s ability to kill Sun Youwei with a single punch.

    Chen Fan walked off the fighting arena expressionlessly.

    Qin Changkong approached him with long strides, patting Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder heavily and smiled, ¡°Goodd, you really surprised me!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Senior Sister? How did her match go?¡±

    ¡°Nothing of note. Her cultivation is already at the peak of the seventh level. As long as she doesn¡¯t run into someone at the eighth level, she won¡¯t be defeated easily. Entering the top 100 shouldn¡¯t be a problem.¡±

    Qin Changkong smiled and continued, ¡°This time, all thanks to you, I got the Bone Spirit me from that old fool Sun Wenshan, and you also eliminated Sun Youwei in one strike. The me will give Yaoyao a great opportunity to be an Alchemist.¡±

    ¡°Uncle Qin, fusing with a primeval me can be dangerous, right?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s only natural, but I have been helping Yaoyao prepare for years. We have a sixty percent chance of sess. Once she bes an Alchemist, she can use this Bone Spirit me to deal with enemies. It might even allow her to contend with eighth-level martial artists and be one of the top 10 outer sect disciples.¡±

    The Outer Sect Grand Competition was not a one-day event. It was divided into several phases, with breaks of a few days in between each phase to allow the outer sect disciples to recover.

    While they were conversing, Qin Yao approached them, having just won her match effortlessly.

    ¡°Senior Sister,¡± Chen Fan greeted Qin Yao calmly, though he felt flustered inside.

    Qin Yao nced at Chen Fan without acknowledging him and greeted Qin Changkong, ¡°Father.¡±

    ¡°Yaoyao, take a look at what we have here,¡± Qin Changkong said, taking out the crystal ball containing the Bone Spirit me and shaking it.

    Although Chen Fan had caused amotion earlier by defeating Sun Youwei with a single punch, only a portion of the crowd had noticed it. The audience of the other nine arenas had no idea what had transpired.

    The ten fighting arenas were each showing spectacr and intense battles.

    ¡°This is... Bone Spirit me!¡± Qin Yao¡¯s eyes instantly lit up.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s a Bone Spirit me.¡±

    Qin Changkong smiled. ¡°You should thank Xiaofan quickly. He defeated Sun Youwei in one strike and helped me win this Bone Spirit me from that old fool Sun Wenshan.¡±

    ¡°No need for that. I¡¯m delighted to be able to help Senior Sister.¡± Chen Fan hurriedly waved his hands.

    ¡°Yaoyao, once the first phase of the grandpetition concludes, use the break to fuse with this primeval me. It will aid your journey to bing an Alchemist and increase your strength. With it, you''ll have a fighting chance against someone at the eighth level; you might even defeat them. Bing one of the top 10 disciples of the outer sect may even be a possibility.¡±

    All fathers in the world looked out for their children.

    ......

    A short distance away, hundreds of members from the Heaven''s Alliance had gathered. Fei Kuang and hispanions had watched Chen Fan''s battle, and their eyes gleamed with coldness, a smile on their faces.

    ¡°Hehe, looks like that guy does have some strength. He killed Sun Youwei, that good-for-nothing, with one blow. Hisbat strength isparable to a seventh-level martial artist, but that¡¯s it. Who among you drew the tenth group? Swap lots with me. I¡¯ll go meet him when the timees.¡± Fei Kuang turned his head and said to the people behind him.

    ¡°Me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m also in the tenth group.¡±

    Immediately, more than ten members of the Heaven''s Alliance responded.

    Fei Kuang randomly picked someone and swapped his lot with them; the coldness in his eyes and smile grew more intense.

    <i>Act out all you want for now; your time to die ising soon!</i>

    Time flew by swiftly as all ten fighting arenaspleted a round of matches, resulting in the elimination of half the disciples, numbering several thousand. Tragically, over a hundred disciples lost their lives in the process.

    Soon, the second round of matches began.

    ¡°Tenth group, number 345 versus number 932.¡±

    It was once again Chen Fan''s turn to step into the arena.

    His opponent in this battle was even weaker than Sun Youwei; it was a youth with fifth-level cultivation.

    As soon as they were both on the stage, a bitter smile appeared on the youth¡¯s face, and he promptly admitted defeat. After all, he¡¯d personally witnessed Sun Youwei¡¯s death.

    Even with soft-scaled armor, Sun Youwei died from a single punch. If he faced Chen Fan without any protection, they likely wouldn¡¯t even find his corpse.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t like to kill indiscriminately, but the sight of him killing Sun Youwei had left a deep impression on these people. Disciples with cultivation lower than Chen Fan''s perceived him as a demon.

    In this second battle, Chen Fan emerged victorious without even having to fight.

    Several hourster, the second round ended, reducing the number of remaining disciples by half again. The third round of battlesmenced.

    Soon, the presiding elder called Chen Fan¡¯s number again.

    This time, Chen Fan¡¯s opponent was a round-faced youth with seventh-level cultivation.

    Unaware of Chen Fan''s previous feat of obliterating Sun Youwei with a single punch, the youth burst intoughter upon realizing his opponent''s identity and began taunting him.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan, right? On ount of yourmendable courage to daree on stage, I¡¯ll let you make the first three moves. Come on,¡± dered the round-faced youth, disregarding Chen Fan.

    Meanwhile, the crowd below the arena covered their faces, cursing the round-faced youth inwardly for his stupidity and arrogance.

    ¡°Go down!¡±

    Chen Fan didn''t attack to kill, but the force behind his fist produced a resounding roar as it surged toward the round-faced youth.

    That round-faced youth immediately realized he had underestimated Chen Fan and roared angrily. His cultivation surged, and his primeval qi howled, but he barely managed to withstand three punches before flying out of the arena.

    Once again, Chen Fan achieved an easy victory.

    His opponent for the fourth battle wasn¡¯t strong, either. His strength wasparable to the round-faced youth from the third battle, both at the early stage of the seventh level.

    Despite his opponent''s initiative tounch a flurry of attacks upon stepping onto the stage, he was defeated by Chen Fan after just ten moves, without consuming much of Chen Fan''s energy.

    By this time, the sun was beginning to set.

    The fifth round was also thest round for the first phase of the grandpetition.

    In this round, Chen Fan finally encountered an expert¨CGu Zhan!

 Chapter 43 - White Tiger Holds Corpse

    <h4>Chapter 43 - White Tiger Holds Corpse</h4>

    As his name suggested, Gu Zhan was extremely fond of battles. [1]

    He loved battles, and he loved being strong enough for them, earning him widespread renown within the outer sect.

    Despite not hailing from a prominent n, Gu Zhan''s humble family background did not hinder his progress. During his youth, he stumbled upon a profound tier qi cultivation technique, the Great Golden Bell Cocoon Qigong. Through diligent effort, he gradually distinguished himself from the other outer sect disciples. He was now a strong contender for a spot among the top 10 disciples in the ongoing Outer Sect Grand Competition.

    ¡°Haha, I never expected to face you in this round. It seems I have an easy match.¡± Gu Zhan couldn''t help but burst intoughter, his voice booming with confidence.

    Gu Zhen knew about Chen Fan¡¯s one-punch-to-kill feat, but he didn¡¯t care about it much. He believed that he, too, could achieve that. His confidence in his strength was unwavering.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I''ve spent the past six months outside the sect, gaining valuable experience and enhancing my strength," Gu Zhan remarked. "Little did I expect to return and hear news of you challenging Zhong Li, causing a stir within the outer sect. You have guts."

    ¡°You literally detonated that good-for-nothing Sun Youwei earlier, too. You¡¯re definitely not weaker than ate-stage, seventh-level martial artist. While my cultivation level is exactly that, I have had some fortuitous encounters in the past and have been practicing a profound tier cultivation technique. My primeval qi is robust, letting me fight those at the peak stage of the seventh level. You are no match for me. Admit defeat, and I promise not to harm you.¡±

    Gu Zhan¡¯s aura created a formidable pressure, making Chen Fan''s muscles tense slightly.

    Gu Zhan was much, much stronger than Chen Fan¡¯s opponents thus far, living up to his reputation. However, underestimating Chen Fan and expecting him to surrender so easily was a grave miscalction.

    "Enough with the empty words. Show me what you''ve got. Time is running out," Chen Fan retorted, narrowing his gaze. His cultivation surged, and the whirlwind beneath his feet roared, extending its influence over a ten-meter radius.

    ¡°Hehe, my man, you still want to fight against me. I¡¯ll grant your wish, then. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t go for the kill, but our fists and kicks have no eyes. Some superficial injuries are inevitable. Be careful now.¡±

    Gu Zhan red at Chen Fan with his bull-like eyes; his battle spirit surged, making it seem like he was growingrger.

    ¡°Say, how long do you think Chen Fan willst against Senior Brother Gu Zhan?¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Gu Zhan is a battle maniac. I heard he fought a tier-one, seventh-level demon beast in the Qingyang Mountain Range while still at the sixth level. It was a long fight, but he did kill the beast in the end.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I think ten moves at the most.¡±

    ......

    The disciples under the fighting arena began discussing among themselves.

    ¡°Gu Zhan, you have to lose in this battle!¡±

    Amanding voice suddenly rang out, capturing the crowd¡¯s attention. They turned to see Fei Kuang approaching, and the crowd¡¯s expressions changed as they quickly made way for him.

    Chen Fan and Gu Zhan were about tomence their battle, but both of them halted upon hearing Fei Kuang. Gu Zhan turned his head, looking at Fei Kuang under the stage. With his brows furrowed, he asked, ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s simple. You must face defeat, and Chen Fan muste out victorious!¡± Fei Kuang said.

    Gu Zhan''s brow furrowed even deeper, and his voice carried a hint of chill as he retorted, ¡°I¡¯m not one of your Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s members. You have no right tomand me. And as far as the battle¡¯s oue is concerned... only time can decide the victor. Moreover, this is my battle with Chen Fan. It has nothing to do with you.¡±

    Fei Kuang¡¯s eyes turned cold, and he threatened, ¡°Gu Zhan, you dare go against my will? Let me tell you, this kid¡¯s life is mine to reap. How am I going to kill him if you win? So, you must lose this battle. Otherwise, I won''t let you off if we ever cross paths. You won''t be able to handle the consequences.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡±

    Hearing this, Gu Zhan immediately broke intoughter from anger.

    ¡°Fei Kuang, you may be able to threaten others with those words, but to try to threaten me? Aren¡¯t you looking down on me a little too much? As for those consequences you mentioned... Hehe, I truly look forward to facing you in battle and discovering just how strong you are to act so recklessly.¡±

    ¡°Very good, Gu Zhan, very good. You¡¯ve seeded in angering me. Just wait to bear my wrath!¡± Fei Kuang left some threatening words and turned to leave in anger, his nose nearly twisted.

    Gu Zhan retracted his gaze and looked at Chen Fan, and said, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s begin.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shifted. His cultivation instantly surged, propelling his figure forward.

    As he rushed forward, his primeval qi within his dantian flowed into his palms, emanating a radiant golden light. A Vajra Seal, the size of a millstone, shot toward Gu Zhan.

    ¡°Good,e on, break!¡±

    Gu Zhan shouted, his primeval qi flowing, boiling in his meridians. Hisrge palms, like molten iron, chopped out, splitting the Vajra Seal apart.

    His palm strike carried a swift and fierce wind, whistling toward Chen Fan as if it could upturn the floor tiles of the fighting arena.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t stop. He moved against the wind, his primeval qi erupted, his palms sweeping back and forth.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    The air moved like rolling waves, ready to crash against towering peaks and threatening to demolish everything in its path. With the force to annihte an army of a thousand, it surged toward Gu Zhan.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Gu Zhan harrumphed as his primeval qi surged, forming a defensiveyer that withstood the Chakravarti Seal¡¯s relentless assault without yielding. He stood firm like a reef at the bottom of the sea, unperturbed by the crashing currents and waves.

    Gu Zhan transformed into a ferocious tiger descending from the mountains, slicing through the wind and shing the waves. He violently lunged toward Chen Fan, his hand plunging like a mighty axe.

    ¡°White Tiger Holds Corpse!¡±

    <i>Roar!</i>

    Suddenly, an enormous white tiger materialized, its ferocity dominating the sky. With a thunderous roar, it unleashed waves of air that captivated the hearts and souls of onlookers.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    That white tiger¡¯s shadow was swift, rushing up to Chen Fan in the blink of an eye. It pierced through his primeval qi and mped down fiercely, resembling a real white tiger holding its prey in its jaws.

    Chen Fan¡¯splexion changed slightly. Primeval qi surged between his legs as he attempted to execute the Ghostly Shadow Steps to retreat.

    <i>Bang bang!</i>

    However, he was half a beat too slow. The white tiger grazed him, disrupting his retreating steps and causing him to stagger backward, his qi and blood churning.

    That blow earlier was indeed very powerful.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Before Chen Fan could steady himself, a violent wind swept over him, apanied by a ferocious aura, a fierce tiger¡¯s roar ringing in his ear.

    ¡°Fierce Tiger Jumps Across Stream!¡±

    As Gu Zhan''s attack approached, Chen Fan swiftly raised both hands, releasing a surge of primeval qi that formed a protective cloud around him. However, the tiger ws of Gu Zhan''s assault tore through the qi cloud, probing through the dissipating mist.

    ¡°Golden Light Palm!¡±

    Countless streaks of golden light radiated from Chen Fan¡¯s palm like the sun. He simultaneously executed Ghostly Shadow Steps once more, darting to the side.

    <i>Rip!</i>

    The white tiger tore apart the Golden Light Palm, but it managed to block Gu Zhan¡¯s attack, allowing Chen Fan to escape. He quickly distanced himself from Gu Zhan, creating some space to catch his breath.

    1. The word Zhan ¡®Õ½¡¯ means fight, battle, war, and his surname Gu ¡®¹Ë¡¯ means to look after, to take into consideration, to attend to. ?

 Chapter 44 - Punching Through Golden Bell Cocoon

    <h4>Chapter 44 - Punching Through Golden Bell Cocoon</h4>

    ¡°As expected of Senior Brother Gu Zhan, he¡¯s indeed powerful. He effortlessly pushed Chen Fan into such a state with just a few moves.¡±

    ¡°Obviously. Senior Brother Gu Zhan is a strong contender for the top 10 outer sect disciples, while Chen Fan is just a rising star. How could hepare to Senior Brother Gu Zhan?¡±

    ¡°Did you guys count? How many moves has it been?¡±

    ¡°Two moves. Senior Brother Gu Zhan took the initiative and used two moves. The first move, White Tiger Holds Corpse, immediately suppressed Chen Fan, leaving him defenseless and at the mercy of Brother Gu Zhan¡¯s relentless assault.¡±

    ¡°I think Chen Fan can take on three more moves before he is defeated.¡±

    The disciples below the arena discussed. They admired Gu Zhan and looked down on Chen Fan.

    If Gu Zhan and Chen Fan were both wealthy men, the disciples saw Gu Zhan as someone rich with background and influence and Chen Fan as a nouveau riche. When the two stood side by side, the disparity between them became evident.

    ¡°Damn it. This Zhan really isn¡¯t going easy at all. He wants to win quickly. It''s outrageous that he dares to disregard Senior Brother Fei Kuang''s warning!¡± eximed one of the Heaven''s Alliance members, his face filled with anger.

    Fei Kuang, positioned at the forefront of the gathering, wore an expression of extreme displeasure, his countenance as dark as an impending storm.

    ¡°Damn it, Gu Zhan really deserves to die. He dares go against my word. Gu Zhan, you better pray that we don¡¯t get into the arena together, or I will kill you and show you the power of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance!¡±

    A fierce and icy cold murderous intent flickered in Fei Kuang''s eyes.

    ¡°How is it, Chen Fan? You can admit defeat now, right?¡± Gu Zhan looked at Chen Fan and said, standing where Chen Fan was earlier instead of continuing his attacks.

    Gu Zhan had executed two powerful moves in quick session. White Tiger Holds Corpse alone had rendered Chen Fan defenseless, putting him at a disadvantage where he could only passively endure the onught. Chen Fan should now be well aware of his formidable strength.

    ¡°Keep going.¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head.

    ¡°You are one of those guys who just cling to their fantasies, aren¡¯t you? Since that¡¯s the case, don¡¯t hate me if I fail to hold back my strength and injure you. I¡¯ve already warned you multiple times,¡± Gu Zhan said.

    ¡°Come!¡±

    Chen Fan beckoned, curling his palm. His qi and blood surged rapidly, akin to the mighty Yangtze River.

    Waves of strength surged inside him as the Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡¯s power erupted.

    ¡°Goodd, you are dead set on fighting till the end, aren¡¯t you?¡± Gu Zhan remarked, observing Chen Fan''s provocative gesture. Suddenly, he whistled a few times, his voice resembling a tiger¡¯s roar. His tendons and bones emitted creaking sounds as he swiftly lunged forward.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    He moved so fast that it felt like he was creating a vacuum in the front by discing all the air.

    Gu Zhan¡¯s current momentum was like a ferocious tiger hunting its prey with full strength. His speed left people tongue-tied.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°This is Senior Brother Gu Zhan¡¯s full strength?¡±

    ¡°He was holding back previously? Is he finally going all out?¡±

    The crowd watched in astonishment as Gu Zhan unleashed his speed, resembling a real white tiger.

    Chen Fan also narrowed his gaze; suddenly, a sharp glint shone in his eyes.

    He didn¡¯t try to dodge the attack. Instead, under the crowd¡¯s shocked gazes, he also rushed forth, ready to sh with Gu Zhan head-on.

    ¡°No way, is he out of his mind? Is he delusional enough to want a direct confrontation with Senior Brother Gu Zhan? He''ll be severely injured this time.¡±

    ¡°How stupid! He should have taken the opportunity to admit defeat, but he insists on fighting until the bitter end. It¡¯s like an egg chucking itself on a rock to break it, truly overestimating himself.¡±

    The crowd immediately started mocking him.

    ¡°White Tiger Moves the Mountain!¡±

    Gu Zhan, akin to a ferocious tiger, possessed enough strength to turn even a 100,000-foot-tall mountain into rubble.

    ¡°Golden Light Palm!¡±

    Chen Fan struck out with a palm without even ncing.

    The palm energy resonated like the resounding trumpet of a colossal elephant, a majestic army spreading far and wide.

    It was as if ancient wild elephants had emerged from the void, violently stampeding through the air, making the surroundings reverberate with explosions.

    This palm not only drew upon Chen Fan''s cultivated qi power but also activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, channeling the strength from every tendon and bone in his body. It erupted fiercely, threatening to tear apart the white tiger.

    <i>Boom Ka!</i>

    Terrifying explosions rang out in an instant.

    <i>Boom boom boom...</i>

    Explosions continued reverberating like a cascade of firecrackers while wild qi swept through the air, shattering the floor tiles of the entire fighting arena.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Chen Fan''s arms locked with the afterimage of the white tiger, forcefully tearing it apart.

    The white tiger let out a mournful cry as it was ripped into two, but the images of the ancient wild elephants trampled over, crashing into Gu Zhan.

    <i>Thump thump thump!</i>

    Heavy footsteps echoed throughout the arena. The primeval qi surrounding Gu Zhan shattered, making him stagger backward, leaving deep footprints and cracking the floor.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    ¡°No way, Senior Brother Gu Zhan was forced back!¡±

    ¡°How is that possible? Senior Brother Gu Zhan was forced to step back?! Am I seeing things?¡±

    ¡°It''s impossible! How could this happen? Did Chen Fan take some drugs? How did he suddenly be so powerful?¡±

    The crowd beneath the arena erupted into a frenzy, their eyes wide open, discussing the unbelievable turn of events.

    Gu Zhan''s expression turned extremely grim. He halted his retreat, steadying his primeval qi, preparing to execute another devastating move.

    However, before he could act, Chen Fan was already in front of him. His terrifying fist descended like a meteorite, exerting immense pressure on Gu Zhan.

    ¡°Great Golden Bell Cocoon Qigong!¡±

    Gu Zhan shouted, raising his arms. Immediately, an oval-shaped qi shield materialized, enveloping him.

    The qi cover resembled a colossal bell,pletely enveloping Gu Zhan within its protective barrier.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan''s fist collided with the bell, but his attack was neutralized.

    ¡°What a powerful defense!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed fiercely.

    ¡°Well done. You caught me off guard with your strength outburst, but breaking through my Golden Bell Cocoon is impossible. When I¡¯m done regting my primeval qi, your defeat is inevitable.¡±

    Gu Zhan¡¯s expression grew more serious. He realized that he had underestimated Chen Fan and that they were evenly matched in terms of strength.

    However, he held great confidence in the imprability of his Golden Bell Cocoon, believing that Chen Fan couldn¡¯t possibly break it.

    He decided to execute his killer move after regting his qi. Defeating Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t be too difficult, then.

    ¡°I can¡¯t break it? I¡¯ll prove you wrong!¡±

    The images of ten thousand elephants materialized behind him, and his tendons and bones vibrated in unison as he unleashed a rapid series of strikes. His primeval qi spun, unleashing hundreds of punches in mere seconds.

    <i>Bong, bong, bong...</i>

    The Golden Bell Cocoon trembled under the onught, and the powerful sound waves became visible to the naked eye, rippling in all directions.

    Gu Zhan trembled, a trail of fresh blood seeping out from the corner of his mouth. Chen Fan''s relentless barrage of attacks had left his organs, leading to internal injuries.

    ¡°Impossible, Chen Fan. Your cultivation can¡¯t possibly be robust enough to let you unleash a hundred punches with such terrifying force. Moreover, your body shouldn''t be able to withstand such a continuous assault!¡± Gu Zhan eximed, thoroughly shocked and perhaps a bit dumbfounded.

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the truth. I was struck by lightning and miraculously survived that disaster. It strengthened my flesh, tendons, and bones. That''s how I could obliterate Sun Youwei with a single punch.¡±

    Chen Fan cried. Almost simultaneously, the ancient wild elephant behind him, a condensed form of his primeval qi, curled its trunk and descended like a heavenly body, trampling the earth as it gathered on Chen Fan''s arm.

    ¡°This punch will break your Golden Bell Cocoon!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With a force that could move mountains and rivers, his fist emerged from above, resembling a colossal ax cleaving through a mountain. Like a mighty elephant uprooting a tree, his presence grewrger, exuding an aura of power and majesty. His arm, seemingly forged from iron bones and steel tendons, possessed an intimidating thickness that sent shivers down the onlookers¡¯ spine.

    <i>Pop!</i>

    The entire Golden Bell Cocoon crumbled into pieces.

    Chen Fan resembled a massive elephant charging forward. His fist shot out like an arrow, stopping right in front of Gu Zhan''s face.

    The wind from Chen Fan''s fist blew against Gu Zhan''s face, stretching his skin backward. He instantly shut his eyes, seemingly waiting for his death.

    ¡°You¡¯ve lost,¡± Chen Fan said, his voice devoid of any emotion.

    Gu Zhan opened his eyes, looking at Chen Fan standing before him. He smiled bitterly and said, ¡°I lost. I didn¡¯t expect you to be so strong. To think I acted so arrogantly before. What a joke!¡±

    Gu Zhan walked off the arena dejectedly.

    Once considered a formidable contender for a position among the top 10 disciples of the outer sect, Gu Zhan''s prospects had drastically changed. At the very least, he had hoped to secure a spot within the top 100, but now, he could not even break into the top 500.

 Chapter 45 - Intercepting to Kill

    <h4>Chapter 45 - Intercepting to Kill</h4>

    ¡°Senior Brother Gu Zhan actually... lost!¡±

    ¡°Am I dreaming? How could Senior Brother Gu Zhan possibly lose to Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°W-what? Chen Fan''s cultivation is clearly weaker than Senior Brother Gu Zhan''s, and he even fell at a significant disadvantage! How did he suddenly unleash such power and defeat Senior Brother Gu Zhan?¡±

    ¡°What robust primeval qi, what terrifying strength, what terrifying physicality... He became so strong after getting struck by lightning? Why didn¡¯t I get struck?¡±

    ¡°With this, isn''t he guaranteed a spot in the top 100 and maybe even have a chance topete for the top 10 among the outer disciples?¡±

    Loud exmations filled the air. Everyone was in disbelief.

    Defeating Sun Youwei with a single punch was surely incredible, but watching him turn the tables and defeat Gu Zhan from a desperate situation left thempletely dumbfounded, their eyes wide and mouths agape.

    Chen Fan naturally heard the crowd¡¯s discussions. He also felt their burning gazes. In the past, he would have reveled in the attention and basked in the glory of such a grand event.

    However, his heart now remained calm, undisturbed like still water. He calmly walked off the fighting arena.

    ¡°Fei Kuang, this kid sure can fight,¡± the Jade-Faced yboy, He Junyang, remarked with a smile.

    A cold glint shed in Fei Kuang''s eyes. The corners of his lips curled into a faint smile as he replied, ¡°That¡¯s better. It¡¯ll be more fun that way. It would be too dull if he were just a weakling I could easily defeat. If I face him in the future, I''ll take my time toying with him.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, that guy Gu Zhan is really useless. Nothing but trash,¡± said He Junyang with contempt.

    Fei Kuang¡¯s expression turned cold. His voice filled with killing intent, he said, ¡°He dares to disrespect me. I won''t let him get away with it. He should thank his stars that he got eliminated. Otherwise, I would have definitely taken his life in the arena.¡±

    ¡°Alright, guys, let''s wrap it up. The first phase of the grandpetition is officially over. Our Heaven¡¯s Alliance did well, with 273 advancing to the next phase. The second phase kicks off in three days, and I''m hoping our alliance will take half of the top 100 spots,¡± Zhong Li remarked as he casually strolled over.

    The group swiftly stood up and left the za with an air of grandeur, creating quite amotion among the onlookers.

    ......

    The night air was refreshingly cool, and the moonlight cast a silver glow. A gentle breeze wafted in through the windows.

    Chen Fan sat in the lotus position on his bed, surrounded by primeval stones that began to crack open one by one. Thick and pure streams of primeval qi drifted out from them, seamlessly merging with Chen Fan. The qi coursed through his skin, emitting a faint halo.

    He continued cultivating until the sun started rising from the horizon.

    ¡°Phew...¡±

    Chen Fan opened his eyes, exhaling a deep breath.

    Despite not sleeping all night, he felt surprisingly invigorated instead of tired.

    ording to ancient records, immortality was within the grasp of those who could harness qi.

    In the world of martial arts, practitioners harnessed the primeval qi of heaven and earth through breathing to strengthen themselves. Being in the Qi Gathering realm, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t consume qi to achieve immortality just yet. However, he absorbed a significant amount of primeval qi during his night of cultivation; therefore, he felt incredibly energetic and free of drowsiness.

    ¡°The grandpetition¡¯s second phase begins in three days. My cultivation has stabilized at the early stage of the sixth level, but mybat strength is equivalent to someone at the peak of the seventh level. However, only the winners will progress, and the losers will be eliminated. While Gu Zhan''s strength is decent, numerous individuals surpass him in power.¡±

    ¡°Fei Kuang and Chen Changfeng, my current enemies, both belong to the tenth group. I am bound to encounter them in theter stages of thepetition. Both of them are considerably stronger than Gu Zhan. Given my current level of strength, it would be challenging for me to emerge victorious if I were to face them.¡±

    ¡°I must find a way to enhance my strength within these three days and prepare for the unexpected. But three days isn¡¯t enough to increase my cultivation of martial arts skills. My physique, on the other hand...¡±

    Chen Fan''s mind raced as he contemted various methods to increase his strength.

    ¡°That¡¯s a dead end, too. My physique is in the Strength Refining realm. Without a spiritual herb or a treasure specifically designed for physique tempering, I can¡¯t advance to the fourthyer, the Bone Tempering realm.¡±

    Chen Fan reluctantly concluded that he could only make some progress but couldn''t reach the next level of strength.

    ¡°Kiki, Kikiki.¡±

    Suddenly, a monkey''s screech echoed from the windows, followed by someone swiftly entering the room. The intruder was none other than Xiaobai.

    ¡°Why are you here instead of apanying Senior Sister?¡± Chen Fan looked at Xiaobai, displeased.

    ¡°Kikiki...¡± Xiaobai tried his hardest to gesture, indicating that he hade to visit Chen Fan. He screeched some more and continued gesturing. There was boredom on his face; he seemingly wanted to convey that staying in the sect was boring.

    Chen Fan rolled his eyes back, picked up Xiaobai, and said, ¡°Alright then,e with me on a trip to the Qingyang Mountain Range. Let''s try our luck and see if we can stumble upon something good there and increase our strength.¡±

    Chen Fan walked out with Xiaobai on his shoulder.

    With not much to upy him in the Spring Autumn Sect for the next three days, Chen Fan decided it would be more worthwhile to explore the Qingyang Mountain Range. What if he was lucky enough to stumble upon something extraordinary again?

    He had heard many stories of people soaring to the skies in one go.

    These stories often involved the protagonist surviving a fall from a cliff, stumbling upon a hidden cavern by chance, and obtaining unparalleled martial arts or treasures that propelled them to be experts.

    Unfortunately, someone had been waiting for this very moment. As soon as Chen Fan left the Spring Autumn Sect, the news reached Sun Wenshan.

    ¡°You little bastard, you dare kill my son. I will make him pay with his blood. I''ll twist his head off and kick it around like a ball! He left the sect? This is truly a heaven-sent opportunity!!¡±

    Icy cold killing intent rose from Sun Wenshan. He flitted, resembling a roc spreading its wings, as he soared into the sky and disappeared from the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ......

    On a winding mountain path, Chen Fan ran with nimble steps, almost as if he were flying. His figure flickered between rocks and trees, disying the agility of a monkey.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    Xiaobai also became lively now that they weren¡¯t in the sect, seemingly enjoying the journey, screeching happily without pause.

    Chen Fan abruptly stopped, his gaze fixed on a boulder ahead on the mountain path. Someone stood there, their robe billowing in the wind, exuding a powerful aura.

    ¡°Sun Wenshan!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils contracted violently upon seeing him. His hair stood on end, a dark cloud of foreboding looming over him.

    He had left the sect discreetly; unexpectedly, Sun Wenshan learned of Chen Fan''s departure and had been waiting for him at the passageway leading outside.

    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, you little bastard. You made me wait half an hour!¡±

    Wenshan''s gaze pierced Chen Fan like a sharp sword, causing a stinging sensation on his skin. An invisible pressure enveloped him, making it difficult for him to catch his breath.

    He had firsthand experience of the immense power of a Qi Grandmaster.

    Over half a month ago, he had been as feeble as an ant when facing Zhong Li, who could have easily crushed him to death.

    Zhong Li had only recently be a Qi Grandmaster, but Sun Wenshan was a seasoned Qi Grandmaster whose strength surpassed Zhong Li''s.

    They were Qi Grandmasters, but there was a significant disparity in their levels and strengths.

 Chapter 46 - Fighting a Qi Grandmaster

    <h4>Chapter 46 - Fighting a Qi Grandmaster</h4>

    ¡°I waited a long time for this, you little beast. You deserve to die for killing my son! Tell me, how do you want to die?¡± Sun Wenshan¡¯s gaze was as sharp as a de. If it could materialize, it would have cut Chen Fan into a million pieces.

    Wenshan''s killing intent was cold as ice and had trapped Chen Fan. He gasped like a fish out of water, feeling like he was about to die from suffocation.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank, now looking like beads. Sun Wenshan being here was undoubtedly terrible news, especially considering the deep grudge he held against Chen Fan.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan''s cultivation suddenly erupted with immense force.

    Primeval energy surged through his meridians like the mighty Yangtze River, resonating with the heavens and earth. Chen Fan used his Ghostly Shadow Steps to their fullest extent, transforming into a phantom and vanishing from the spot.

    He fled.

    Chen Fan had decided to swiftly turn around and just flee.

    And this decision required no contemtion.

    He knew he was strong, but he wasn¡¯t even strong enough to defeat someone at the eighth level, let alone a Qi Grandmaster.

    Only fools would stay and waste time engaging in futile conversation in situations like this.

    ¡°He ran away?!¡±

    Sun Wenshan eximed as he watched Chen Fan disappear, leaving behind nothing but a cloud of dust. He was momentarily stunned; soon, his face twisted into a sneer.

    He hade here with the sole purpose of intercepting and killing Chen Fan. If he let Chen Fan escape, wouldn¡¯t it all be pointless? It would be better to end his own life here than let that happen.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Primeval qi shot out from Sun Wenshan''s head, looking like a beam that soared into the sky and pierced through the clouds.

    He leaped into the air like a mythical roc, traversing the sky. Within moments, he spotted Chen Fan ahead, desperately fleeing for his life.

    Qi Grandmasters couldn¡¯t stay airborne for extended periods, but they could run in the air for a short time, gliding like a bird.

    Chen Fan, in the midst of his escape, felt as if a hungry wolf was hunting him.

    The intense gaze came from above, drawing closer with each passing moment. He could intuitively tell the gaze belonged to Sun Wenshan.

    Despite the dire circumstances, Chen Fan remained remarkablyposed. His mind raced, processing countless calctions instantly, searching for a means of escape.

    ¡°You can¡¯t get away!¡± Sun Wenshan''s icy voice rang, affecting Chen Fan¡¯s mentality.

    Sun Wenshan glided like a bird gliding in a mountain canyon. As soon as he was about to hit the ground, he would use his qi to propel himself and glide until he had to repeat the cycle.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan heard a booming sound akin to a cannon firing from behind. Next, a searing pain jolted his back, triggering a profound sense of danger, prompting him to veer to the side swiftly.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Almost simultaneously, qi force struck the spot where Chen Fan had been, destroying the ground and creating a deep crater. Rocks and dirt flew everywhere, and the ground trembled, showcasing the devastating power of that qi force.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression became even darker.

    His mind raced through countless scenarios, but he couldn''t find a viable escape n unless his cultivation suddenly experienced a significant surge. However, such a scenario was unrealistic.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Sun Wenshan continued gliding, resembling a cat toying with a mouse as he leisurely pursued Chen Fan. asionally, to liven up the mood, he unleashed powerful bursts of qi force to attack Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan narrowly evaded each attack, but there were times when he was a fraction of a second toote, resulting in the shockwaves grazing his skin and making him bleed.

    <i>Boom thud!</i>

    Another terrifying qi force hurtled toward him.

    Chen Fan leaped forward, and a deafening boom rang in his ears.

    A violent shockwave swept from behind, making him stagger and nearly lose his bnce, almost plummeting headfirst to the ground.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    Xiaobai screeched anxiously and angrily from Chen Fan''s embrace.

    Chen Fan steadied himself and turned around. Hit gaze met Sun Wenshan''s intense eyes as he descended gracefully.

    Chen Fan dropped Xiaobai on the ground and unsheathed his precious sword. The air hummed with the resonance of the sword, crackling with electricity.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan realized that he couldn¡¯t run away with his speed.

    Sun Wenshan had been ying with him like a cat yed with a mouse. He hadn¡¯t used his full strength to chase Chen Fan; instead, he was tormenting him, attempting to break his spirit.

    Since that was the case, Chen Fan decided to engage inbat, eager to see the true extent of a Qi Grandmaster''s formidable strength.

    His figure darted forward, creating a violent gale that swept over the area, lifting sand, dust, dried branches, and fallen leaves. Thunderps resounded, and Chen Fan shed at Sun Wenshan.

    Lightning arcs through the air like a silver snake lunging out. That was sword qi¡ªElectric sword qi.

    Thunderp Sword!

    ¡°An ant trying to shake a tree? You are overestimating yourself!¡±

    Sun Wenshan curled his lip when he saw Chen Fan taking the initiative to attack instead of trying to run away.

    With a wave of his palm, Sun Wenshan unleashed a surge of primeval qi that unfolded like silk, shattering Chen Fan''s Thunderp Sword.

    ¡°The game of cat and mouse is over. I shall now send you on your way. Repent in Hell!¡±

    Sun Wenshan''s gaze turned fierce as a wave of terrifying killing intent emanated from him. Violent winds swirled around, forming an invisible force field saturated with killing intent.

    He punched, its force akin to a savage dragon, roaring with ferocity.

    Everything in its path crumbled instantly, apanied by crackling sounds of the air exploding. Within moments, the punch arrived before Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan felt as if the grim reaper himself was staring at him.

    Akin to a demonic python from hell, the punch tried to send him to the deepest levels of hell. He momentarily froze, thinking that it was impossible to block this attack.

    ¡°Haah!¡±

    However, Chen Fan roared like a lion, and his primeval qi erupted violently. His primeval qi seemed boundless, like ake, way more than what any other sixth-level martial artist had.

    ¡°What robust primeval qi. No wonder you dare to challenge those of higher cultivation levels!¡± Sun Wenshan couldn''t help but exim as he observed the surging primeval qi emanating from Chen Fan, narrowing his eyes.

    The primeval qi converged on Chen Fan''s sword, creating sword light that burst forth, with electricity coiling around it.

    With a powerful swing of his arm, an incredibly radiant Thunderp Sword shot out, colliding with Sun Wenshan''s terrifying punch.

    Even so, the punch tore through Chen Fan¡¯s attack like a hot knife through butter.

    Subsequently, the punch collided with Chen Fan''s precious sword, resulting in a snapping sound as the finely crafted iron sword shattered into several pieces.

    The momentum of the punch remained undiminished, quickly prating Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi defense.

    Chen Fan felt as if a mountain had struck him; he felt like he was about to split into atoms. His organs wanted to jump out of him, and he felt incredibly weak. He flew back from the impact and crashed into a boulder.

    ¡°Augh ueek¡±

    Chen Fan convulsed a few times. Large mouthfuls of fresh blood bubbled out from his mouth and nose. He almost vomited his organs.

    He had failed even to block a single punch. All his attacks and defenses were like paper, instantly crumbling and resulting in severe injuries.

    Finally, Chen Fan realized the terrifying might of a Qi Grandmaster. Comparing them was likeparing an ant to an elephant¡ªthey weren¡¯t even part of the same world.

 Chapter 47 - Xiaobai Saves His Master

    <h4>Chapter 47 - Xiaobai Saves His Master</h4>

    With a single casual punch, Chen Fan''s attacks and defense were effortlessly torn apart, leaving him heavily injured and unable to continue fighting. This demonstrated the immense power of a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°Feel the despair, you pathetic fool. Cry if you must. Your fate was sealed the moment you harmed my son. You are destined to die by my hands, crushed like an ant.¡±

    Sun Wenshan approached slowly, filled with a sense of triumph.

    He wasn¡¯t worried about Chen Fan running away, as even a martial artist at the eighth level would struggle to recover from his punch, let alone someone at the sixth level.

    ¡°Hahaha, how is it, little bastard? Are you feeling the pain? I have to thank you, though. If you had remained in the sect and advanced a few more levels, it would have be impossible for me to kill you.¡±

    ¡°But you actually dared to leave the sect?! Did you think I wouldn''t find out if you scurried around like a mouse? My methods are beyond yourprehension. I knew about it the moment you stepped out of the sect.¡±

    ¡°In the sect, the rules and Qin Changkong could have protected you. What could I ever do to you? But now, no one in heaven or earth can save you. Your fate is sealed!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. After you die, I¡¯ll also send Qin Changkong to hell. Oh, there¡¯s also Qin Yao, your Senior Sister. I can tell you¡¯re pretty fond of her. After you die, I''ll have my way with her and rip out the Bone Spirit me from her before sending her to Hell. Wait, no. I''ll cripple her cultivation and sell her off to a brothel.¡±

    Sun Wenshan spoke boldly, deliberately trying to provoke Chen Fan. He wanted to break Chen Fan''s spirit before killing him.

    Chen Fan stared at Sun Wenshan intently, despite his injuries, his gaze filled with fury. He said viciously, ¡°Old fart, make sure that I don¡¯t escape and die here. If I make it out of this alive, I will be your darkest nightmare. I will subject you to the most excruciating torture imaginable, making you long for death!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, keep talking, keep cursing at me, little bastard. I''ve made up my mind; I won''t kill you immediately. I''ll first cripple your cultivation, break your limbs, and drench you in fresh blood. Then, I''ll unleash demon beasts to feast on your flesh and blood. I''ll make you scream for ten days and nights before finally allowing you to die!"

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    Suddenly, Xiaobai jumped at Sun Wenshan, looking like a white lightning sh.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Sun Wenshan didn¡¯t pay any heed to Xiaobai, assuming he was just a pet. He moved his arm swiftly and released a burst of qi force toward Xiaobai.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    In an instant, Xiaobai grew, transforming into a ferocious Violent Ape standing over three meters tall.

    Every inch of his being emanated ferocity, his hair turning into steel needles. With a powerful palm swing, he shattered Sun Wenshan''s qi force.

    With all his might, Xiaobaiunched a fierce punch toward Sun Wenshan''s head.

    The fist was like an enormous iron te, carrying a terrifying force. Xiaobai''s arm seemed to be made of steel tendons and iron bones, surging with power akin to ten thousand galloping horses.

    ¡°What?!¡±

    Sun Wenshan was astonished, caught off guard by the sudden transformation.

    He never expected the seemingly adorable white little monkey to transform into a ferocious and savage beast in the blink of an eye.

    A violent gale apanied the fist as it hurtled toward Wenshan with lightning speed, crackling through the air.

    However, Sun Wenshan was a Qi Grandmaster realm expert and was an outer sect elder who had experienced over a hundred battles.

    After his initial shock subsided, he quickly regained his calm. Primeval qi surged from his dantian, and a whiteyer of qi enveloped him.

    <i>Boom Ka!</i>

    With a resounding boom, Xiaobai''s terrifying punch collided with the qiyer.

    The qiyer instantly shattered. Sun Wenshan staggered backward a few steps, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    Xiao Bai roared fiercely. Like an ancient wild elephant trampling the earth, he chased after him with terrifying steps and threw out another violent punch.

    The strength behind it was akin to the force of ten thousand galloping horses, seemingly capable of toppling mountains.

    ¡°Stilling at me! Get lost!¡±

    Sun Wenshan had been caught off guard earlier, almost ambushed by Xiaobai. Consequently, Xiaobai''s single punch broke his hastily conjured defensive qiyer. The residual force entered his body, causing internal injuries and disrupting his blood cirction.

    Sun Wenshan managed to suppress the pain and was now prepared. He struck back with a palm. The palm dragged the air around, whistling as it collided with Xiaobai''s fist.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Xiaobai was forced to retreat from the impact.

    Staying by Qin Yao¡¯s side, Xiaobai had gained plenty of benefits. He was initially a tier-one, seventh-level beast; now, he was an eighth-level beast, even stronger than Chen Fan.

    Nevertheless, when facing Sun Wenshan, a seasoned Qi Grandmaster, Xiaobai still found himself outmatched.

    The difference between someone at the eighth level and a Qi Grandmaster was significant. Even if twenty to thirty experts at the eighth level simultaneously fought a Qi Grandmaster, they could only achieve a draw.

    Xiaobai¡¯s bloodline was extraordinary, but he still couldn¡¯t stand against a Qi Grandmaster alone, so being forced back was expected.

    ¡°You damned beast, die!¡±

    Sun Wenshan shouted. His primeval qi boiled, sweeping out like a storm.

    Arge, terrifying hand formed from primeval qi came smacking down. It created a gale so powerful that it pulverized the rocks in the vicinity under its terrifying pressure.

    ¡°Roar, roar!¡±

    Roaring in response to the overwhelming aura, Xiaobai raised his head to the sky. His fur seemed to radiate an even more resplendent glow as his aura reached its peak. Astonishingly, he began utilizing fist techniques, a truly unbelievable sight.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Explosions reverberated as a series of shes ensued. Rocks shattered, trees snapped, and sand and dirt filled the air. Wenshan¡¯s qi force ran rampant, turning the ce into a mess.

    This time, Sun Wenshan was actually pushed back a step, stifling a low grunt in the process.

    However, Xiaobai was in an even worse state. His skin was torn, and he had deep cuts, with fresh blood staining his golden fur red.

    Yet, this only further ignited the ferocity within him. He pounded his chest madly with both hands, then charged forth again, seemingly unafraid of death.

    Chen Fan''s injuries had somewhat recovered after consuming many Recovery Pills. Strength returned to him, allowing him to stand up unsteadily.

    ¡°Xiaobai...¡±

    Holding onto a boulder about half as tall as a human for support, Chen Fan watched as Xiaobai threw out swift punches. However, these were clearly not random strikes but rather a mysterious fist technique. Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed, shocked at the sight.

    <i>Boom Pa!</i>

    Xiaobai was suddenly sent flying back, blood gushing from his wounds. Emitting two distressed screeches, he transformed back into a small white monkey, his consciousness hazy. He had sustained severe injuries.

    ¡°Xiaobai!¡±

    Chen Fan was shocked. Ignoring his pain, he leaped over and caught Xiaobai. The force of his descent was transferred onto Chen Fan, sending him flying back like a sack of potatoes. He stumbled when he tried tond.

    ¡°Run!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t have time to check on Xiaobai¡¯s injuries. He forcibly suppressed his injuries and circted all the primeval qi in his dantian, channeling it into his legs. He darted, soon disappearing into the mountains.

    ¡°Puufft!¡±

    Sun Wenshan contemted pursuing them; when he tried to mobilize his qi, he trembled uncontrobly and vomited a mouthful of fresh blood.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Sun Wenshan took a moment to recover before mming his palm down on arge boulder.

    The boulder instantly turned into powder. Seeing Chen Fan disappearing without a trace, his killing intent surged to the skies, and he let out furious cries.

    He didn¡¯t expect to fail in killing Chen Fan.

    And the cause of his failure was that ursed little white monkey!

    What was even more infuriating was that the monkey possessed such formidable power, inflicting injuries that prevented him from giving chase.

 Chapter 48 - Golden Scaled Dragon Python

    <h4>Chapter 48 - Golden Scaled Dragon Python</h4>

    ¡°Pfft pfft pfft!¡±

    Chen Fan sprinted frantically, his injuries bing unbearable at times, causing him to vomit blood.

    Despite the pain, he refused to stop, pushing himself to the limit with each stride using Ghostly Shadow Steps.

    After an hour of relentless running, Chen Fan found himself disoriented, unsure of his location. Surveying the surroundings, he spotted a discreet cave and sought refuge inside.

    ¡°Ugh, pfft!¡±

    Chen Fan stumbled into the cave. It was so dark inside that he felt like he was entering an abyss. And all this while, he hadn¡¯t stopped vomiting blood.

    ¡°How are you feeling, Xiaobai?¡±

    He immediately sat on the ground, retrieved several Recovery Pills, and swallowed them, feeding some to Xiaobai as well. Concern filled his eyes as he noticed Xiaobai''s weak breathing.

    If it weren''t for Xiaobai''s surprise attack on Sun Wenshan, dealing him internal injuries, Chen Fan would have been doomed. Not only that, his fearless attacks afterward aggravated Sun Wenshan¡¯s injuries, preventing him from giving chase.

    Chen Fan knew he was currently no match for the fury of a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    Xiaobai screeched weakly and closed his eyes. Soon after, he radiated a golden glow, which enveloped him like delicate silk threads, resembling a golden cocoon.

    A look of rm crossed Chen Fan''s face as he hurriedly touched the golden cocoon. He felt its warmth and noticed its rhythmic rise and fall as if it were breathing. However, the cocoon¡¯s aura was rather weak, like someone on their deathbed.

    Chen Fan could finally sigh in relief, now aware that Xiaobai wasn¡¯t dead and seemed to be recuperating.

    ¡°Just wait, Sun Wenshan. I will personally ughter you!¡± Icy killing intent emanated from his eyes, enveloping the surroundings and turning the cave into an icebox.

    Time passed quickly, and two days went by in a sh.

    ¡°Phew.¡±

    Chen Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a deep breath. His eyes gleamed like the sun.

    His injuries had mostly healed and were no longer a cause for concern.

    This was thanks to his tough physique and his insane recovery speed. Anyone else would have rested for ten days to half a month before they could even get out of bed.

    Chen Fan nced at the cocoon beside him, shing, seemingly having fallen into a deep sleep.

    Meanwhile, two figures were approaching this cave.

    ¡°Big Brother, there¡¯s a cave here. Why don¡¯t we recuperate our wounds there first?¡± suggested a muscr man with a crew cut, emitting an intense aura, pointing at the cave.

    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll find two more people when our injuries are healed. We must y that Golden Scaled Dragon Python. It possesses a trace of a flood dragon¡¯s bloodline¡ªa valuable treasure for physique tempering and strengthening of tendons and bones. The python''s skin and galldder are also valuable. We can sell them for nearly a thousand primeval stones.¡± The other speaker had a deep voice and a knife scar on his face.

    However, a shing light inside the cave suddenly caught their attention. Their eyes narrowed as they realized this golden light was following the breathing pattern.

    ¡°We¡¯re fortunate, Big Brother. There¡¯s actually treasure in this cave!¡± said the man with the crew cut in surprise.

    Traces of joy also appeared in the scar-faced man¡¯s cold eyes. He strode deeper in and said, ¡°Come, we¡¯ll go in and see what treasure it is.¡±

    Upon entering, they immediately saw Chen Fan sitting on the ground. Their expressions changed, but when they sensed his cultivation, cold smiles showed on their faces.

    Their gazes shifted to the cocoon with Xiaobai inside, greed oozing out of their eyes.

    Though they had no idea what it was, the flickering golden light and its apparent vitality hinted at its value.

    Even if it were just the cocoon of a demon beast, it would fetch them a good price.

    Many people enjoyed raising demon beasts, as the young could be raised to love humans.

    In their eyes, the cocoon was an unborn demon beast and that was worth more than a mature demon beast.

    "Brat, I''ll give you three breaths'' time to make a choice," the scar-faced man said inly, his tone condescending as he disregarded Chen Fan. "Option one: hand over your treasures, including that cocoon, to us brothers. Then, cripple your cultivation and crawl out of here. ¡°Option two: be killed by me right here. Make your choice.

    ¡°Remember, I want you to crawl, not walk out of here. If you try walking out on your two feet, I¡¯ll break your legs.¡±

    Eyes filled with mockery, the man with the crew cut chimed in, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear him? What are you doing, not moving? You want to die?¡±

    Chen Fan raised his head, a cold glint shing in his eyes. Without uttering a word, he swiftly moved his arm andunched a punch.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space trembled, and the air filled with a deafening roar. A Vajra Seal, the size of a millstone, shot out, darting toward the two men.

    ¡°To dare attack me, you¡¯re courting death! Army Wrecking Fist!¡±

    The man with a crew cut shouted coldly as he stepped forward, unleashing his sixth-level cultivation. A fierce and icy wind surged from his fist.

    However, the Army Wrecking Fist crumbled the instant it met the Vajra Seal.

    The Vajra Seal forcefully pushed forward, crashing into the man. Several snapping sounds echoed as his tendons snapped and bones broke, sending him flying back like a lifeless sack. He crashed onto the ground, twitched a few times, and then stopped showing all signs of life.

    ¡°What?!¡±

    The scar-faced man turned pale with fright when he watched this scene unfold.

    The two were hunters, always wandering between the boundaries of life and death. Although they were only sixth-level martial artists, they were experts in that realm. The man with the crew cut was as strong as the scar-faced man, so he never expected his partner to be killed in an instant.

    This scar-faced man was a sensible person. He knew this teenager¡¯s cultivation was also at the sixth level, but he definitely wasn¡¯t someone he could handle. This kind of person was a genius, capable of taking on several opponents like him.

    He swiftly turned around, his primeval qi surging as he prepared to flee for his life.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    However, just as he moved, a violent wind swept over him. An arm shot toward him like an agile snake, grabbing his neck before he could react.

    ¡°Do-don¡¯t kill me...¡± With his life hanging by a thread, the scar-faced man looked utterly terrified, desperately pleading for mercy.

    Chen Fan looked at the scar-faced man coldly and asked, ¡°Where is the Golden Scaled Dragon Python you spoke of?¡±

    He had overheard their conversation from before clearly. His eyes instantly lit up when he heard the words ¡°Golden Scaled Dragon Python.¡±

    As the scar-faced man had said earlier, the Golden Scaled Dragon Python had a trace of a flood dragon¡¯s bloodline. Its blood was precious and could be used to temper one¡¯s physique.

    Chen Fan was stuck in the Strength Refining realm. If he could use the Golden Scaled Dragon Python to temper his physique, there was a very high chance he could advance to the Bone Tempering realm.

    With that, he wouldn¡¯t be any weaker than eighth-level martial artists just by relying on his physical strength.

 Chapter 49 â€“ Slaying Snake

    <h4>Chapter 49 ¨C ying Snake</h4>

    ¡°Huh? You¡¯re going to hunt the Golden Scaled Dragon Python? I can bring you there as long as you don¡¯t kill me,¡± blurted the scar-faced man, grasping at a glimmer of hope.

    ¡°Fine, bring me to the Golden Scaled Dragon Python, and I won¡¯t kill you.¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    ¡°Really?¡±

    ¡°Keep talking, and I¡¯ll kill you right away!¡± Chen Fan''s intense gaze pierced the scar-faced man''s heart, leaving him frozen in fear.

    ¡°Okay, okay, okay, I¡¯ll bring you there right now.¡±

    Chen Fan put Xiaobai¡¯s cocoon into his storage pouch and walked out of the cave, following the scar-faced man into the dense forest.

    ¡°What level demon beast is that Golden Scaled Dragon Python?¡± Chen Fan inquired, aware that although he had mostly recovered from his injuries, he still wasn¡¯t in peak condition.

    If the creature was at the eighth level, he would abandon the idea altogether. Maybe he would visit the beast after he had healed fully.

    Considering that the scar-faced man and his brother escaped from the Golden Scaled Dragon Python, Chen Fan spected that it was likely not at the eighth level. It was likely at the seventh level.

    ¡°It¡¯s at the seventh level," confirmed the scar-faced man, verifying Chen Fan''s suspicions.

    The wind whistled as they moved through the sea of trees.

    Under the scar-faced man¡¯s lead, the two quickly traversed through the dense forest and soon arrived before a cave. A fishy stench oozed from the cave; it was quite a foul odor.

    "Here it is!" the scar-faced man pointed, indicating the cave''s entrance.

    Chen Fan nodded and whistled, attempting to lure the python out of its cave. The ground soon trembled slightly.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already told you where it is. You will let me go now, right?¡± asked the scar-faced man, looking at Chen Fan.

    ¡°What are you panicking for? Let¡¯s talk after the Golden Scaled Dragon Pythones out. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t kill you,¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    The scar-faced man fell silent, lowering his head. A cold gleam flickered in his eyes as he decided to wait for Chen Fan and the Golden Scaled Dragon Python to weaken each other in the battle. He nned to take advantage of the situation and not only humiliate Chen Fan but also kill him.

    Chen Fan nced at the scar-faced man. He scoffed inwardly, aware of the scar-faced man''s intentions due to hostility emanating from him.

    A gust of wind carrying a putrid odor swept out from the cave, giving the air a murky grayish-ck hue. Simultaneously, a massive python covered in golden scales emerged.

    This python was about a hundred feet long and thick as a water bucket. Under the sunlight, its palm-sized scales shone with a golden luster. Its eyes glowed with a chilling light, resemblingnterns.

    It was indeed a Golden Scaled Dragon Python.

    Rearing its upper body, the Golden Scaled Dragon Python extended its tongue, dripping its saliva onto the ground and emitting hissing sounds. The saliva was highly acidic, capable of corroding flesh and blood upon contact.

    Chen Fan looked at the Golden Scaled Dragon Python like he had seen an excellent tonic. His eyes were full of joy.

    ¡°You promised not to kill me,¡± said the scar-faced man as he began stepping back.

    <i>Smack.</i>

    However, Chen Fan grabbed the back of his neck. ¡°I did promise not to kill you, but whether the Golden Scaled Dragon Python will kill you or not remains to be seen.¡±

    ¡°You... Despicable. Shameless!¡±

    The scar-faced man understood the meaning behind Chen Fan¡¯s words. His expression changed drastically. He unleashed his primeval qi to resist Chen Fan''s grip, but his efforts proved futile.

    Exerting force in his palm, Chen Fan rendered the scar-faced man as weak as a captured rabbit. With a swift arm swing, heunched the scar-faced man towards the Golden Scaled Dragon Python, propelling him like a cannonball.

    ¡°Ahh, you little beast, you don¡¯t keep your promises. You¡¯ll suffer retribution!¡±

    ¡°Heh, heh, did you think I have no idea what you¡¯re nning? Retribution? I only said I won¡¯t kill you. I never said anything about letting you go. Besides, I truly won''t be the one ending your life.¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly.

    <i>Smack boom.</i>

    With a resounding smack, the tail of the Golden Scaled Dragon Python whipped through the air, striking the scar-faced man. He didn¡¯t even have the time to let out a scream before he was reduced to minced meat.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly leaped, appearing before the Golden Scaled Dragon Python. He unleashed a Vajra Seal, swiftly followed by a Chakravarti Seal, both aimed directly at the massive creature.

    Reacting with remarkable speed, the Golden Scaled Dragon Python swung its colossal tail. The tail moved so fast that, rtive to it, the wind seemed stagnant. The tail acted like an iron te armor as it collided with the Vajra Seal.

    With rumbling sounds, both the Vajra Seal and Chakravarti Seal shattered upon impact.

    The Golden Scaled Dragon Python also let out a pained hiss.

    Although it managed to break Chen Fan''s attacks, numerous scales on its tail were torn off, exposing its flesh with blood gushing from the wound.

    The python was now furious. Its head lunged forward, jaws wide open, and it fiercely snapped at Chen Fan with lightning speed. The overwhelming fishy stench nearly overwhelmed Chen Fan.

    ¡°Eat this punch, you beast!¡±

    Chen Fan''s figure flickered like an afterimage. He soared into the air for the second time, positioning himself above the python''s head. With a tap of his feet, he utilized the momentum to move to the back of its head. His primeval qi surged, and the silhouette of many ancient wild elephants materialized behind him. He punched out, tearing the air.

    As the saying goes, "Hunt a snake by going for the back of its head." This was the weakness of python-like demon beasts. [1]

    <i>Pish!</i>

    The impact caused the reverse scale, asrge as two palms, at the back of the python''s head to crack, spewing fresh blood. [2]

    ¡°Ouuuuuu!¡±

    The Golden Scaled Dragon Python cried out miserably from the pain. It quickly twisted around, turning its head back, and bit at Chen Fan. Simultaneously, its tailshed out, creating a pincer attack as its body arched into a U-shape.

    Chen Fan moved like the wind, shing away in an instant. The python¡¯s head and tail smashed into one another, leaving the Golden Scaled Dragon Python momentarily dazed.

    ¡°Chance!¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes gleamed with excitement as he swiftly took action.

    He mustered all the strength he could, and his primeval qi surged. He delivered devastating punches to the back of the Golden Scaled Dragon Python''s head.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang.</i>

    The storm of punches reduced its reverse scale to powder. The surrounding scales also broke, its mangled flesh revealing a ghastly sight.

    The Golden Scaled Dragon Python cried out tragically, its enormous body twisting and turning around, trying to escape.

    As his weak spot had been hit repeatedly, it could already sense the aura of death. Striving for fortune and avoiding dangers was part of demon beasts¡¯ nature. Moreover, it had intelligence on par with children about eight to nine years old.

    ¡°Trying to escape?¡±

    There was no way he would let his hard-earned prize slip away.

    He yanked on the python¡¯s tail. Muscles on both his arms puffed up. His thick veins were like bowstrings, humming as he shouted, ¡°Up!¡±

    He lifted the entire Golden Scaled Dragon Python and then violently mmed it down.

    <i>Thoom!</i>

    An earth-shattering sound reverberated as the ground shook heavily.

    Chen Fan kept repeating his actions. The ground shook repeatedly, producing loud booms. After more than ten repetitions, the Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s criespletely stopped, smashed to death by Chen Fan.

    1. It actually says go for the 7-inch spot from the head, but considering the sizes of these demon beasts, obviously that doesn¡¯t make any sense. ?

    2. It¡¯s said that dragons have a reverse scale somewhere on their body that is their weakest spot. Also, this python was mentioned to have a trace of flood dragon bloodline. ?

 Chapter 50 - Bone Tempering Realm

    <h4>Chapter 50 - Bone Tempering Realm</h4>

    ¡°Phew...¡±

    After confirming the Golden Scaled Dragon Python was dead, Chen Fan plopped on the ground, sore all over. It felt like his skeleton wanted a divorce from his muscles.

    Having just recovered from his injuries, Chen Fan engaged in a fierce battle with a powerful demon beast like the Golden Scaled Dragon Python, which drained him significantly.

    After all, the Golden Scaled Dragon Python had a trace of a flood dragon¡¯s bloodline, surpassing many other demon beasts in strength.

    After resting for half an hour, Chen Fan finally felt strength returning to him, and he got to work.

    Every part of the Golden Scaled Dragon Python was a treasure; naturally, Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t waste any of it.

    Given his current cultivation method, he required an enormous amount of primeval stones. He couldn¡¯t rely solely on the sect''s allowance, as it would be like trying to extinguish a fire with a cup of water. He needed to find ways to earn a substantial number of primeval stones.

    epting missions from the sect to hunt demon beasts was a pretty good solution.

    After harvesting the skin, gall, and saliva, Chen Fan dug out arge hole in the ground, thirty feet long and wide. Then, he drained the Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s blood into that big hole, turning it into a blood pit.

    Stripping off his clothes, Chen Fan bravely jumped into the blood pit.

    <i>Tsss, tsss, tsss...</i>

    As soon as he entered the blood pit, Chen Fan experienced a sharp, stinging pain.

    The Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s blood was like an army of blood ants, infiltrating him through his pores and gnawing at his flesh and blood.

    The stinging pain Chen Fan experienced was not severe, and he remained calm throughout the process.

    He sat down in the lotus position and started cultivating the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. He refined the Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s blood inside him, fusing it with his flesh and blood cells.

    Almost immediately, Chen Fan felt his flesh and blood cells transmitting pleasant sensations to him, crazily devouring the energy in the Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s blood.

    The Golden Scaled Dragon Python possessed a trace of a flood dragon¡¯s bloodline. The bloodline might be thin, but it was very precious.

    Dragons were legendary divine beasts capable of devouring celestial bodies and transcending realms.

    A single drop of dragon''s blood could shatter the universe, erase the existence of immortals, and traverse through ages. So, even that trace bloodline contained vast powers.

    As the Myriad Elephants Divine Art circted, the pores all over Chen Fan opened up, generating a powerful suction force. They absorbed the trace of dragon¡¯s blood in the Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s blood, making its flesh and blood tremble and hiss.

    Changes soon appeared in Chen Fan. Like a golden cicada breaking its shell or a python shedding its skin, the dragon blood¡¯s power thoroughly cleansed his body.

    His skin became fairer and more translucent, and his pores became smaller, devoid of imperfections.

    The scars left behind from previous injuries had vanished. It was smooth and delicate, resembling a masterpiece carved from crystal. Simply perfect!

    Underneath his skin and flesh, his skeleton structure also changed.

    Ancient wild elephants of primeval qi emitted a roar as they coiled their trunks. They absorbed traces of the dragon''s blood, infusing it into Chen Fan''s bone marrow. This process increased the density of his bones, making them tougher and more resilient. The Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡¯s fourthyer, the Bone Tempering realm, turned primeval qi into ancient wild elephants and fused them into the practitioner¡¯s flesh, blood, tendons, and bones.

    Chen Fan felt like he was about to advance to the fourthyer.

    The energy contained in the blood of the Golden Scaled Dragon Python was gradually loosening the barrier that had previously hindered his progress, propelling him towards the Bone Tempering realm.

    Chen Fan could clearly feel his physique growing stronger.

    <i>Breakthrough for me. Breakthrough. Breakthrough!</i>

    Chen Fan roared In his heart, crazily revolving Myriad Elephants Divine Art. All his pores greedily devoured the energy in the python¡¯s blood. The primeval qi in his dantian transformed into ancient, wild elephants, merging with his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones, tempering his entire being.

    Two hourster, Chen Fan opened his eyes, a brilliant light shing within them.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    He stood up from the blood pit, shaking himself. The fresh blood stuck to him dissipated without a trace.

    Under the sunlight, his skin appeared as fair as jade, with each pore clearly visible.

    Although he wasn¡¯t particrly muscr, there seemed to be a hidden, terrifying strength within his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones. Once it erupted, it would be like a flood breaking through a dam or a volcano erupting, shocking the heaven and shaking the earth.

    Chen Fan¡¯s tendons and bones hummed in unison as he moved. An aura of ancient power radiated from him, reminiscent of a primordial flood.

    <i>Bone Tempering realm, achieved!</i>

    After dressing, Chen Fan noticed that his clothes had be shorter. However, upon closer inspection, he realized that it was not his clothing that had changed, but rather, he had grown taller and more robust. His recent breakthrough had not only improved his strength and toughness, but even his aura had changed.

    He was now tall and slim, exuding an extraordinary temperament as if he had stepped out of a painting¡ªthe perfect human being.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan punched. The air boomed, and qi force shot out like a cannonball, blowing an old tree as thick as arge bowl into smithereens, all achieved solely through his physical strength without relying on his qi cultivation.

    The force generated from his casual punch was truly terrifying.

    ¡°Now, if I face another Golden Scaled Dragon Python, I can tear it apart with my bare hands. I have truly be capable of tearing apart tigers and leopards,¡± Chen Fan mumbled to himself.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan abruptly heard a faint sound. From the corner of his eye, he saw the cocoon flickering within the blood pit. Xiaobai was seemingly absorbing the energy from the Golden Scaled Dragon Python''s blood to heal itself, as its vital aura had be stronger.

    Xiaobai hade out of Chen Fan¡¯s storage pouch on his own while Chen Fan was breaking through and entered the blood pit.

    ¡°Since Xiaobai can use this method to recover quickly, I¡¯ll hunt some more demon beasts while there¡¯s still some time.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone. With a sweep of his palm, he retrieved his belongings and rushed into the dense and dark forest like a gust of wind.

    ......

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A Green-Faced Tiger copsed on the ground from Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike.

    After harvesting all the valuable materials from it, he dug out arge pit and drained the Green-Faced Tiger¡¯s fresh blood into it. Next, he ced Xiaobai¡¯s cocoon into it.

    Immediately, he noticed the flickering light shining more rapidly, indicating that Xiaobai was absorbing the energy from the fresh blood. Its vitality continued to grow stronger.

    In half a day, Chen Fan slew more than a dozen powerful demon beasts.

    One of them was even a tier one, eighth-level demon beast.

    Despite the formidable opponent, Chen Fan disyed immense strength, resembling an ancient wild elephant charging through thend. His arms, like elephant trunks, possessed the power to pull down the sun, moon, and stars, tearing apart a Sword-Fanged Tiger with savage brutality. He was like a human-shaped weapon.

    While Xiaobai was recovering with the help of the demon beasts¡¯ fresh blood, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t idling around, either. He took out many primeval stones, crushed them, and absorbed their primeval qi, increasing his cultivation.

    Chen Fan needed a vast amount of primeval qi to push his cultivation level higher. His dantian was too big, like an ocean, ten times bigger than others.

    What others needed to advance a level could only help Chen Fan progress from the early to the middle stage.

    Chen Fan desperately needed primeval stones and other cultivation resources.

    Furthermore, with Myriad Elephants Divine Art progressing to the fourthyer, he no longer had to train himself using external forces. Instead, he needed to keep turning his primeval qi into ancient wild elephant runes and fuse them into his blood, flesh, tendons, and bones. This process consumed a substantial amount of primeval qi, necessitating arge supply of primeval stones for recovery.

    Previously, Chen Fan had exchanged his loot for five hundred primeval stones. He had spent a good amount of them to advance to the sixth level. Now that he was cultivating again, he had already exhausted his wealth.

    It had only been a short half a month. He was simply spending primeval stones like people wasted water. Others would definitely be astonished if they were to hear of this.

    However, it was not without purpose. His cultivation had made significant progress, advancing to the middle stage of the sixth level, resulting in a substantial increase in his strength.

 Chapter 51 - Breaking the Rule

    <h4>Chapter 51 - Breaking the Rule</h4>

    Three days passed in the blink of an eye, and the Outer Sect Grand Competition¡¯s second phase began.

    ¡°Tenth group, number 74 versus number 345!¡±

    Chen Fan swiftly ascended the fighting arena, followed closely by his opponent. The youth was tall and robust, d in a ck robe. His aura exuded great power,parable to that of Gu Zhan.

    ¡°Hehe, I didn¡¯t expect to face you!¡± said the youth with an eerie smile.

    Sensing the hostility emanating from his opponent, Chen Fan quickly grasped the situation. He responded with a mocking smile. "You must be from the Heaven''s Alliance, right?"

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±

    The youth in ck robes didn¡¯t deny it, sticking out his tongue and licking his lips. His cold smile gave off a ferocious vibe as he continued, ¡°Choosing to be our enemy is simply inviting death. You will meet your demise on this path. Every member of our alliance will hunt you to kill you.¡±

    ¡°You want to kill me? You and what army? It¡¯s not that I¡¯m looking down on you, but in my eyes, you¡¯re not much better than the ants on the ground,¡± Chen Fan replied indifferently, his cold smile unwavering.

    Chen Fan was now at the middle stage of the sixth level. Even without utilizing the full power of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, he could easily defeat his opponent. If he unleashed his full strength, he could tear the man in the ck robe apart.

    Chen Changfeng and others at the eighth level were Chen Fan¡¯s current opponents. If he had to fight someone seriously, it would be them.

    ¡°Such arrogance!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s statement made the youth fly into a rage.

    ¡°You think defeating Gu Zhan makes you invincible? Unfortunately for you, Gu Zhan is nothing more than trash in my eyes. I can kill him easily. And you are no different. You are just a slightly bigger ant.¡±

    The youth¡¯s tone was cold as he arrogantly belittled Gu Zhan and Chen Fan.

    ¡°But Senior Brother Fei Kuang said he¡¯ll take your life personally. Count yourself lucky. If you had fallen into my hands, I would have made you cry before killing you,¡± said the youth with a venomous glint in his eyes.

    ¡°Li Feng, since you encountered him first, you get rid of him. My hands would be soiled if I were to make a move myself. So, you will act on my behalf. But don''t let him die too easily. Give him a thorough round of torture first. Understand?¡± The voice belonged to Fei Kuang, who stood below the arena.

    ¡°Since you¡¯ve spoken, Senior Brother Fei Kuang, I¡¯ll take it upon myself to help you eliminate him. Rest assured, Senior Brother, I¡¯ll cut off his tongue first to make it impossible for him to surrender or beg for mercy!¡±

    Li Feng¡¯s expression instantly turned savage.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Li Feng''s aura surged, reaching the sky, and thick primeval qi gathered in his palms.

    He quickly thrust his palm out, forming a gray palm seal enveloped in primeval qi. It darted toward Chen Fan, creating terrifying fluctuations.

    "Prepare to be crushed!" Li Fengughed maliciously. "You insignificant ant!"

    However, Chen Fan''s expression remained unchanged as he faced Li Feng''s ferocious palm strike. He raised his arm and shook it before him, unleashing a gale that flew like a cannonball.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The punch, as heavy as a mountain, erupted with tremendous force, instantly shattering the oing primeval qi palm seal. Its momentum remained unyielding, rushing toward Li Feng.

    ¡°What?!¡±

    Li Feng turned pale with fright.

    With a furious roar, he unleashed the primeval qi in his dantian, forming a pir that rose from his head. As he retreated, he quickly flipped his palms and pushed out.

    ¡°Immovable Mountain Palm!¡±

    One palm seal after another condensed in front of Li Feng, gradually taking the shape of a mountain. A powerful suppressing force emanated from it, pushing out horizontally.

    Members of the Heaven''s Alliance were all elite cultivators, hailing from martial ns and families with deep foundations. Many possessed profound martial arts techniques.

    Li Feng, a descendant of the Li n of the Skyview City, had solid foundations and practiced a profound tier cultivation technique.

    This Immovable Mountain Palm was an upper-dirt tier martial skill, one of the better ones among them, suitable for both offense and defense.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    However, a violent wind swept through, instantly obliterating the mountain-like palm force. Chen Fan''s might had reduced the mountain to smithereens.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    An icy cold voice rang out, seeminglying from the depths of Hell to im Li Feng''s life.

    Chen Fan approached Li Feng with an indifferent expression. An icy cold aura came from him as his fist, the size of a bowl, smashed into Li Feng.

    ¡°Audacious! Our Heaven¡¯s Alliance will be sure to exterminate your n if you dare kill him!¡±

    Fei Kuang leaped onto the stage, his primeval qi surging and transforming into a long de, shing at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Fan sent out a palm with a flip of his hand, shattering Fei Kuang¡¯s de qi.

    He simultaneously unleashed a primeval qi sh, sharp as a sword. It broke through Li Feng¡¯s defenses, striking between his eyebrows.

    ¡°You, you...¡±

    Li Feng instantly stiffened up, looking at Chen Fan in disbelief. He never expected Chen Fan to dispatch him so effortlessly.

    ¡°Haah! You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    The ferocious roar echoed in the area.

    A terrifying windstorm appeared around Fei Kuang, his eyes filled with killing intent directed at Chen Fan. He swiftly charged toward Chen Fan,pletely disregarding thepetition rules.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    An indignant voice suddenly descended from the skies.

    Chen Fan felt the air around him instantly stagnate. Like steel, it seemed capable of squeezing and crushing a person to death.

    The air in the area instantly stagnated as if it had turned into a steel cage capable of crushing a person to death. A figure appeared in the fighting arena¡ªit was Grand Elder Su Yuntian. Hisplexion was grim, and a terrifying coldness emanated from his body.

    ¡°You¡¯re too unruly, Fei Kuang. You dare vite thepetition rules. You should be punished!¡± Su Yuntian sounded calm, but everyone could sense the fury within.

    At the Outer Sect Grand Competition, no one was allowed to interfere. It was the fundamental rule.

    However, Fei Kuang had tantly disregarded this rule, showing disrespect to the sect. As the presiding officer of the Outer Sect Grand Competition, if such a grant vition of the rules went unchecked, what authority would the sect have left to speak of?

    Even in the face of Su Yuntian''s questioning, Fei Kuang showed no fear. He red at Su Yuntian with fury and responded coldly, "Grand Elder, this person killed a member of our Heaven''s Alliance. He deserves to die!"

    ¡°Even if he killed a member of your Heaven¡¯s Alliance, that falls within the boundaries of the rules. Do you think you can ignore the rules just because you¡¯re a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance!?¡±

    A hint of anger shed in Su Yuntian¡¯s eyes.

    As the Grand Elder of the outer sect, he held high status and authority, not to mention he was a great expert in the Yuanfu realm. He did not expect Fei Kuang to show no fear or remorse when questioned and even use the name of the Heaven''s Alliance to threaten him. It was truly outrageous!

    ¡°Please calm down, Grand Elder.¡±

    Suddenly, a white silhouette flitted over with a swoosh. It was Zhong Li.

    Wearing a faint smile, Zhong Li addressed Su Yuntian, ¡°Please calm down, Grand Elder. Fei Kuang is indeed at fault in this matter and acted impulsively. Please let him off just this once, Grand Elder. If he repeats the same mistake, I will execute him as a warning to others, without requiring any intervention from the Grand Elder.¡±

 Chapter 52 - Battling Fei Kuang

    <h4>Chapter 52 - Battling Fei Kuang</h4>

    With Zhong Li pleading for Fei Kuang, even the Outer Sect Master would have to give him face, let alone the Grand Elder, Su Yuntian.

    ¡°Fine. Just this once. No more chances,¡± Su Yuntian said, nodding.

    Within the Spring Autumn Sect, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance had significant influence, as it even had many elder-level figures in its ranks.

    Furthermore, the sect master of the Spring Autumn Sect favored Duan Jingtian, making him the likely sessor to the sect master position.

    ¡°Still not apologizing for your mistake?!¡± Zhong Li shouted coldly at Fei Kuang.

    Fei Kuang''s expression darkened slightly. He reluctantly apologized, ¡°I was wrong, Grand Elder.¡±

    ¡°Mmm. Step down from the stage, then. Let''s not dy thepetition,¡± Su Yuntian said indifferently. He had no goodwill left for him, as Fei Kuang had dared oppose him, going as far as to use the Heaven¡¯s Alliance to threaten him.

    ¡°Hold on a moment!¡±

    A voice suddenly rang out.

    ¡°What do you have to say?¡± Su Yuntian asked, looking at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan stepped forward and looked coldly at Fei Kuang. He smirked and said, ¡°Grand Elder, since he is so eager to kill me that he would disregard the sect rules, why not let me fight him right here, right now? Consider him my opponent for the next round.¡±

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Fei Kuang¡¯s eyes immediately lit up, and he blurted, ¡°Please grant this request, Grand Elder!¡±

    He couldn''t contain his eagerness. Had Su Yuntian not intervened earlier, he would have killed Chen Fan and used his fresh blood to defend the prestige of the Heaven''s Alliance.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Su Yuntian frowned, looking at Chen Fan.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°Fine, since you¡¯ve requested it yourself. I¡¯ll allow it.¡± Su Yuntian said.

    A sharp light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. ¡°Then I must implore the Grand Elder to oversee this fight in case certain individuals disregard everything and attempt to interfere if this person faces a life or death crisis.¡±

    The ¡°certain individuals" here were naturally Zhong Li and other members of the Heaven''s Alliance.

    The Heaven¡¯s Alliance members relied on Duan Jingtian¡¯s name and even dared break the rules of a grand affair like the Outer Sect Grand Competition. It demonstrated their arrogance and unruliness.

    It would be really annoying if Zhong Li jumped in to block Chen Fan when he was about to kill Fei Kuang.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    A cold glint shed in Zhong Li''s eyes upon hearing that. He snorted and leaped off the fighting arena.

    ¡°Rest assured. With me here, no one can intervene in your battle,¡± Su Yuntian said, his voice slightly cold.

    If another such incident urred, it would be a direct insult to Su Yuntian. Naturally, he wouldn''t allow that to happen, not even if Zhong Li was involved.

    ¡°You little beast, I¡¯ve long wanted to cut you down! I never expected you toe to my doorstep. Great! You dare to kill a member of our Heaven''s Alliance? No matter where you hide, you will have to die!"

    ¡°No one has dared to offend a member of the alliance since its inception, let alone kill one of us. You will have to pay for your actions with your life!¡±

    ¡°But I won¡¯t let you die so easily. You will wish for the sweet release of death, howling in pain on this stage. I¡¯ll show everyone the price of offending the Heaven¡¯s Alliance!¡±

    "Soon, I will make you taste the consequences of challenging the heavens¡¯ prestige."

    Fei Kuang looked at Chen Fan savagely, seemingly looking at a helpless sheep.

    ¡°Challenging the heavens¡¯ prestige? You truly consider yourselves divine beings? A mere insignificant shrimp believes they can stand on equal footing with the heavens just because they established a group? Your arrogance knows no bounds.¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly, showing his disdain.

    ¡°Damn you! Not only are you humiliating our Heaven''s Alliance, but you are also disrespecting Senior Brother Duan Jingtian! You deserve to die!¡±

    Killing intent erupted from Fei Kuang. With a swift motion of his hand, the primeval qi made the space copse. His palm strike seemed to turn the world upside down, creating a ck hole of primeval qi above Chen Fan.

    This ck hole greedily absorbed all energy. Chen Fan felt as if the primeval qi deep within his dantian was leaking out.

    Fei Kuang¡¯s primeval qi was unimaginably robust,parable to an eighth-level expert. His martial arts skills were also profound, helping him be one of the core leaders of the Outer Sect Heaven''s Alliance.

    ¡°Primeval qi ck hole? That¡¯s no big deal. Break!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly in his heart.

    With a flip of his palm, a millstone-sized Vajra seal shot upward, suppressing and breaking that primeval qi ck hole.

    ¡°Heaven Flipping Hand, suppress him!¡± Fei Kuang roared. primeval qi surged forth as he executed his palm technique. A giant hand of primeval qi descended upon Chen Fan, seemingly flipping the heavens and the earth upside down.

    Heaven Flipping Hand was a technique that reversed the natural order. Chen Fan felt his head had grown heavy and his feet light as if he had been turned upside down.

    ¡°Haha, this is Senior Brother Fei Kuang¡¯s specialty: Heaven Flipping Hand, an upper-dirt tier martial art. It turns the world topsy-turvy, reversing the positions of the moon and the sun. The entire universe seems to return to chaos, crushing everything into dust.¡±

    ¡°This is the power of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. That damned bastard seems like an ant now that Senior Brother Fei Kuang has made his move. He dares to kill a member of our Heaven''s Alliance¡ªa tant provocation. He must die!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s for sure. Only our Heaven''s Alliance has the right to bully others, and they can never fight back. Anyone who dares to oppose us must die, especially if they kill a member of our Heaven''s Alliance. They shouldn¡¯t even get a chance to reincarnate!¡±

    The nearby Heaven¡¯s Alliance members smiled coldly. Their conversation revealed the extent of their hubris and tyranny.

    ¡°Hmph, restore heaven and earth!¡±

    Chen Fan felt a terrifying force trying to squash him. He witnessed heaven and earth merging, returning to a state of primeval chaos as if the world was being recreated.

    However, he knew that this was merely an illusion.

    He trembled, and primeval qi surged to his fists. He unleashed a rapid series of punches, shattering the illusion of heaven and earth with more than ten strikes.

    ¡°Is this all, Fei Kuang? It''s nothing special. Take this punch!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi surged, channeling the strength of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. With a resounding boom, a powerful punch shook the surroundings. The force behind the punch erupted, destroying everything ahead.

    ¡°Damn rogue!¡±

    Fei Kuang could never have imagined that Chen Fan possessed such devastating power.

    He had assumed that Chen Fan''s strength was, at most, at the eighth level, but that clearly wasn¡¯t the case.

    ¡°Looks like you are finally revealing your true strength. Sadly, it¡¯s useless. No one can save you. I will show you why I am known as a maniac. It''s not just because of my personality but because of my strength. My strength gives me the right to be arrogant!"

    A cold light shed in Fei Kuang¡¯s eyes. With a loud ng, the sound of a long de being unsheathed rang out. Simultaneously, his primeval qi ignited, causing the temperature in the surroundings to skyrocket.

    ¡°You should feel honored to meet your demise under my profound tier cultivation technique¡ªRaging mes Great Cultivation Technique. Taste the de, Heavenly Net Massacre!¡±

    He swung his violently; instantly, a brilliant de light engulfed the area.

    These streaks of terrifying de light were incredibly sharp, capable of slicing through heaven and earth, and enveloped in raging mes, obliterating everything in their path.

    The burning de light resembled a spider''s web,yered and densely packed. They formed a vast, slicing through space, scorching the air, and enveloping Chen Fan.

    The Heavenly Net Massacre left no passage to the heavens nor any path to the depths of the earth.

 Chapter 53 - Two Halves

    <h4>Chapter 53 - Two Halves</h4>

    ¡°No!¡± eximed Qin Changkong as he witnessed the attack from the observation gallery.

    The Raging mes Great Cultivation Technique was a profound tier cultivation technique, and the Heavenly Net Massacre was also a quasi-profound tier martial skill. Capable of splitting mountains, ending rivers, and vaporizing streams, they posed a significant threat.

    These very techniques were the source of Fei Kuang¡¯s confidence when he had threatened Gu Zhan, asking him to lose to Chen Fan.

    The disparity between profound-tier and quasi-profound-tier martial arts was substantial.

    Within the same realm, a martial artist practicing a profound tier cultivation technique could easily overpower two or three martial artists practicing a quasi-profound-tier cultivation technique.

    <i>Boom boom.</i>

    The spider web-like fiery de light cut through the air. The air ignited wherever it passed, transforming the space into a burning inferno. The scorching heat waves seared Chen Fan''s skin.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I¡¯ve never used Raging mes Great Cultivation Technique against someone with a cultivation level lower than me. They are unworthy of witnessing this profound-tier cultivation technique. However, you are the first exception," dered Fei Kuang with fury. "But this also sealed your fate¡ªDeath. There is no escape for you, be it in heaven or on earth."

    In his eyes, someone with a sixth-level cultivation like Chen Fan was nothing more than an ant. Yet, he had beenpelled to unleash his most powerful attack; he felt humiliated.

    He could only wash away this humiliation with Chen Fan¡¯s blood.

    ¡°Profound tier cultivation technique, a genuine profound tier cultivation technique! Not a quasi one! What terrifying powers. I feel like my entire being is on the verge of being incinerated into nothingness by this de," eximed a shocked observer.

    ¡°As expected of one of the leaders of the alliance¡¯s outer sect branch, practicing a real profound tier cultivation technique. His vigorous primeval qi isn¡¯t any weaker than someone at the eighth level. He can fight against experts at the eighth level.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is in danger now. He could have lived for a little longer, but he just had to court death. No one can save him now.¡±

    Even those unaffiliated with the Heaven''s Alliance couldn''t help but gasp in shock, marveling at Fei Kuang''s incredible strength.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression also became a little graver.

    Fei Kuang was arrogant, but he also had the strength to back it up. He was no weaker than martial artists at the early stage of the eighth level.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan thrust his palms forward, unleashing the Vajra Seal and Chakravarti Seal in session.

    It was useless, however.

    The Vajra Seal was effortlessly sliced into pieces like tofu, while the Chakravarti Seal failed to generate even the slightest ripple.

    ¡°Golden Light Palm!¡±

    Undeterred, Chen Fan summoned his strength and unleashed another palm strike. A brilliant golden light radiated from his palm, forming a colossal golden hand measuring around ten meters in size. The palm seal''s vein lines pulsed with primeval qi, exuding an oppressive aura.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The of des and palm seal collided. Qi directly erupted, and the rumbling noises from their collision resounded in the area, sweeping up a windstorm.

    Fei Kuang darted around like a mighty dragon, leaping repeatedly and generating whirlwinds.

    His powerful cultivation burned crazily, wrapping his de in mes, twisting the air.

    ¡°City of Embers! Die!¡±

    Fei Kuang resembled a Vermilion Bird engulfed in mes as he soared, forcefully shing down with his zing de.

    The burning qi conjured an illusionary city, only to be swiftly cleaved in two by the menacing de light, reducing it to ruins.

    This move exuded a majestic, grand, and horrifying aura, showcasing absolute suppression.

    However, Chen Fan remained calm and focused, channeling his energy into his sword. A steady stream of primeval qi gathered within him.

    Just as the terrifying de descended, Chen Fan initiated his counterattack.

    The primeval qi in his palm condensed into an electrically charged sword, emitting crackling noises.

    With a long whistle, the destructive thunderous energy erupted from the sword. It was as if divine thunder had condensed at the sword tip, erupting instantaneously and forming electric arcs that tore through the void, dispelling the darkness.

    Thunderp Sword!

    Chen Fan had survived a lightning strike, which granted him a peerless cultivation technique and transformed his physique. The primeval qi in his dantian even carried the essence of lightning.

    The Thunderp Sword, being a technique of the lightning element, harmonized perfectly with his primeval qi, amplifying its destructive power to an even more astonishing level.

    Chen Fan seemed to have turned into a god of thunder. He jumped, and the Thunderp Sword drew an arc; in the blink of an eye, it bolted through the air like lightning. Under his attack, even a person''s soul would tremble in awe.

    <i>Bzzzch!</i>

    A sh of lightning illuminated the scene as the sword art streaked along an intricate path, resembling a true bolt of lightning. The attack was aimed at Fei Kuang''s brow, leaving him astonished. He quickly drew his long de closer, using it to block the attack.

    With a loud ng, a terrifying force rushed at him. The impact dimmed the mes around him; unable to withstand the attack, he flew backward, stumbling as hended on the floor, hisplexion slightly pale.

    <i>What?!</i>

    The Heaven¡¯s Alliance members¡¯ eyes had nearly popped out of their sockets.

    ¡°It seems that your words are mightier than your might. This is all you are capable off!¡± Chen Fannded gracefully, the electric qi sword disappearing from his hand. He looked at Fei Kuang, whose expression was now iparably ugly and sinister.

    ¡°Ahhhh!¡±

    Fei Kuang roared madly at Chen Fan¡¯s mockery. The mes around him reignited, surging out like waves in the sea.

    ¡°You¡¯ve infuriated me. You¡¯ve thoroughly infuriated me, you know that? No one has ever made me this angry. You¡¯re the first and will be thest. You have to die. You must die!¡±

    His furious roar resembled that of a wounded wild beast descending into madness. His primeval qi went berserk, and his eyes turned a bloody red, emanating a horrifying aura.

    ¡°You have to die. You must die! No one can save you. Die!¡±

    Fei Kuang jumped at him.

    He decided to use every ounce of his primeval qi, transforming it into fiery embers that could scorch mountains and boil seas. The sea of embers rolled in waves, and Chen Fen felt like his face was about to be hit with boiling water.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A terrifying ming de descended upon Chen Fan. It was a simple yet formidable attack. There was only one de, but it carried the resonance of churning sea waves as if an entire oceany beneath it. This de could potentially evaporate a sea, posing a threat of immense magnitude.

    This was Fei Kuang''s strongest move: Raging mes Boils the Sea.

    Chen Fan felt his soul tremble. There was no escape or hiding from this de.

    This attack could even vaporize an entire sea, so where could he possibly hide?

    His pores opened wide, desperately gasping for air like someone on the verge of drowning. Every hair on his body stood on end, and goosebumps covered his skin. An oppressive, dangerous, and deadly aura enveloped him.

    Chen Fan''s mind raced, realizing that all his martial skills were futile against this de. They would be torn apart and vaporized instantly. The de''s power wasparable to that of a profound tier martial art.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, unparalleled divine strength, tear it apart!¡±

    His primeval qi surged, taking the form of ancient wild elephants. His muscles swelled, his bones creaked, and his tendons resonated like dragons or vibrating strings.

    Chen Fan instantly became three inches taller. His limbs became thick and robust, giving the impression that his tendons were forged from steel and his bones from iron, containing terrifying strength within, able to copse mountains and shatter the earth.

    He was using the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to its limit. Summoning every ounce of his power, he reached out to grab the descending de that could vaporize a sea.

    <i>ng!</i>

    As if hitting an imprable wall of iron, the precious de, crafted from fine iron, shattered into two pieces with a resounding ng.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan rushed forth, bringing a violent wind with him as he appeared before Fei Kuang. Before Fei Kuang could even react, he felt his shoulders being seized, his bones seemingly on the verge of being crushed.

    Fei Kuang was overwhelmed by a wave of excruciating pain as if his body was being torn apart.

    With a loud tearing noise, Chen Fan actually ripped Fei Kuang into two before he could even let out a scream. Fresh blood and internal organs spilled onto the floor.

    Silence.

    In an instant, the entire outer sect za went dead silent.

 Chapter 54 - Qingyang County City

    <h4>Chapter 54 - Qingyang County City</h4>

    The surrounding area had fallen silent. Everyone stared wide-eyed, looking nkly at the fighting arena.

    Fei Kuang had been brutally torn in half, causing fresh blood and organs to spill onto the ground. The shocking sight sent chills down their spines, evoking a sense of cruelty and fear.

    <i>Gulp!</i>

    The silence was broken only by the sound of swallowing saliva echoing throughout the area after a while.

    The expressions of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were a sight to behold; the faces of many twitched in disbelief.

    The humiliation of witnessing Fei Kuang, one of their leading members from the Outer Sect, being torn apart in front of countless onlookers was truly profound.

    Zhong Li looked at Chen Fan¡¯s back as he walked off the arena, his gaze iparably cold.

    ¡°Send the word down. All the weaker members are to avoid this person in the grandpetition. I¡¯ll reap his life myself!¡± Zhong Li instructed the person beside him.

    Chen Fan''s strength was undeniable. Even Fei Kuang had been torn apart effortlessly. Anyone other than a Qi Grandmaster would have difficulty killing Chen Fan. If a weaker alliance member were to fight him, it would only lead to a pointless loss of life.

    ¡°That¡¯s too cruel. He actually tore Fei Kuang in half. That¡¯s too scary.¡±

    ¡°Heaven¡¯s Alliance has suffered a great loss. Fei Kuang was a core member of the Outer Sect, a genius destined to reach the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    ¡°One can¡¯t just up and kill a Heaven¡¯s Alliance member. Chen Fan has thoroughly offended the alliance. Even if he enters the inner sect by luck in the future, his path will be fraught with obstacles. It wouldn''t be surprising if he meets an unnatural death.¡±

    ¡°He won¡¯t be entering the inner sect. The Heaven''s Alliance was publicly humiliated. As the alliance leader for the outer sect, Zhong Li wouldn¡¯t have the face to enter the inner sect and cultivate if he didn¡¯t do something. Just watch. Zhong Li definitely won¡¯t let Chen Fan off.¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    ¡°Hehe, that¡¯s pretty interesting. He actually killed Fei Kuang, that trash. Tsk tsk, this is too interesting. I can''t wait to face you and witness your pleas for mercy.¡±

    In a corner, Chen Changfeng''s gaze turned chillingly cold. He licked his lips, resembling a predator who had found its prey.

    ......

    ¡°The grandpetition continues!¡±

    Grand Elder Su Yuntian¡¯s voice echoed throughout the arena.

    The scene of Chen Fan tearing Fei Kuang alive earlier was too shocking. The battles in the nine other arenas had all paused.

    Gradually, the crowd regained theirposure, and the fights on the other arenas resumed.

    Time flew by as the battles continued.

    During this period, Chen Fan encountered no worthy opponents.

    Every time he stepped onto the stage, his adversaries immediately chose to surrender, refusing to fight him. Chen Fan seemed like a fearsome beast everyone wanted to avoid.

    This was inevitable.

    After witnessing his battle with Fei Kuang, people became aware of Chen Fan''s terrifying strength. Only someone at the eighth level could even think about fighting him.

    However, in the entire outer sect, only around ten disciples had reached the eighth level or higher.

    As a result, Chen Fan only participated in two fights during the second phase, smoothly advancing thanks to the lingering impact of his battle against Fei Kuang.

    At this point, each group was left with only ten people, eliminating all others. With this, the top 100 disciples of the Outer Sect Grand Competition were determined.

    These 100 people basically represented the strongest and most outstanding disciples of the entire Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s outer sect.

    Of course, some could have entered the top 100 but were eliminated early for various reasons, like Gu Zhan, Fei Kuang, and others.

    ¡°These are the top 100 disciples of this Outer Sect Grand Competition? How enviable. The top 100 disciples would all receive rewards from the sect, like primeval stones, pills, weapons, and more. They would be even stronger!¡±

    ¡°The top 100 disciples in the Outer Sect Grand Competition will be inner sect disciples after the new year. It really is like carp crossing the dragon gate. Outer sect disciples like us count for nothing. Only the inner sect disciples are the sect¡¯s true elites, able to obtain all kinds of pills and elixirs andrge amounts of primeval stones to aid their cultivation. They make significant progress and be outstanding individuals.¡± [1]

    ¡°Sigh, my cultivation is only at the fourth level. I¡¯ll definitely reach the seventh level in three years. I¡¯ll definitely enter the top 100 and be an inner sect disciple then.¡±

    ¡°Things went as expected. The Heaven¡¯s Alliance upied more than half of the positions in this Outer Sect Grand Competition¡¯s top 100. How terrifying.¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    Envious gazes fell upon the top 100 disciples of the grandpetition.

    ¡°Alright, this concluded the second phase of the Outer Sect Grand Competition. You 100 will have three days to rest and recover. We will then determine the final top 10 disciples of the outer sect,¡± Su Yuntian announced, sweeping his gaze across Chen Fan and the other participants.

    With that, the crowd dispersed. As Chen Fan was about to leave, a group approached him aggressively.

    ¡°You better pray you don''t make it into the top 10 outer sect disciples. That way, you''ll get to live a little longer. Otherwise, you will meet your end in the blessednd,¡± Zhong Li warned, leaving with the members of Heaven''s Alliance following closely behind.

    However, as every Heaven¡¯s Alliance member walked past him, their vicious gazes fell onto Chen Fan like sharp knives.

    ¡°Threatening me, huh...¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Zhong Li and the alliance members, narrowing his eyes. ¡°Unfortunately for you, I¡¯m a really stubborn person. The more others tell me not to do something, the more I do it. Let¡¯s see what you can do to me in the blessednd!¡±

    The top 10 outer sect disciples qualify to enter the blessednd for training. It had all kinds of treasures of heaven and earth and opportunities.

    For every iteration of the Outer Sect Grand Competition, as long as the top 10 disciples returned alive from the blessednd, their cultivation would almost always experience a great improvement, reaching the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    There were even cases of Qi Grandmasters breaking through to the Yuanfu realm, bing true experts.

    How could he miss such an opportunity?

    ¡°Keke, I¡¯ll let you live for three more days, brat. You¡¯ll surely run into me during the third phase. I¡¯ll have you wishing for death!¡± said Chen Changfeng, also passing by Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow, staring at Chen Changfeng¡¯s back. It seemed there were plenty who wanted him dead.

    However, he had no intention of showing any courtesy to those who sought his life.

    Thinking of this, Chen Fan smiled coldly.

    ......

    Qingyang County City was one of thirty-six county-level cities of the Great Chu Empire.

    Its vast territory spanned hundreds of thousands of miles and was home to over ten grade-one and grade-two cities under its jurisdiction. The city derived its name from the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    Within Qingyang County, four great sects held prominence: Spring Autumn Sect, Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Mountain River Sect, and Burning Incense Valley. In addition to these sects, numerous influential martial ns and families boasted legacies that stretched back a thousand years.

    While these martial ns and families couldn''t rival the four great sects regarding foundation, strength, and the number of experts, they still constituted a formidable force. If they were to unite, they could challenge the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Chen Fan hade to Qingyang County City.

    A few days ago, he hunted numerous demon beasts in the Qingyang Mountain Range, resulting in a substantial harvest. He intended to sell his spoils in Qingyang County City and also explore the possibility of acquiring a quality sword for himself.

    As Chen Fan strolled along the bustling streets, the crowd weaved around him. Tall and brightly lit buildings lined both sides of the street, exuding a grand and majestic atmosphere. People flowed in and out of these establishments, creating a vibrant and lively scene.

    The practice of martial arts thrived within the Great Chu Empire, with countless individuals dedicating themselves to cultivation.

    More than eighty percent of the people walking on the streets of Qingyang County City were qi cultivators.

    Most of them had reached the third or fourth-level cultivation, while some had attained the fifth or sixth level. Seventh and eighth-level cultivators were not umon either.

    Of course, Qi Grandmasters and Yuanfu realm experts weren¡¯t somonly seen.

    Those people were top-ss existences even in the Spring Autumn Sect.

    1. In Chinese mythology, while many carp swim upstream against the river''s strong current, few are capable or brave enough for the final leap over the waterfall. If a carp sessfully jumps over the dragon gate, it will be a powerful dragon. ?

 Chapter 55 - Worldâ€™s End Pavilion

    <h4>Chapter 55 - World¡¯s End Pavilion</h4>

    The World''s End Pavilion, thergest tradingpany in the Great Chu Empire, had branches in every city of the empire, including its headquarters in the royal capital of Chu.

    It was rumored that even the so-called headquarters was just another branch store. Some believed that the World''s End Pavilion had connections to foreign powers.

    There were whispers that their stores spanned across the Tianwu Continent, reaching the farthest corners of the world, which exined their name.

    The meaning was simple: No matter where one was, they¡¯d see the shadow of the World''s End Pavilion.

    Soon, Chen Fan arrived in front of a branch of the World¡¯s End Pavilion.

    It resembled a massive pce, covering an area of four to five miles, exuding a sense of grandeur.

    Above the main entrance, arge golden que disyed the words "World''s End Pavilion" in elegant calligraphy embellished with gold and jade.

    It emitted a domineering aura, indicating that the calligrapher was undoubtedly a highly skilled cultivator, possibly even a powerhouse in the Yuanfu realm.

    Upon entering the World''s End Pavilion, Chen Fan found the interior divided into numerous smaller stores, each specializing in different items.

    The stores were bustling with activity, with crowds gathered in front of each one.

    Aside from stores that sold pills and elixirs or martial arts, some stores specialized in purchasing various natural treasures, demon beast skin and fur, and demon cores. They were simrly crowded with people.

    ¡°Young Master, may I ask what you¡¯re looking to purchase?¡±

    Just as Chen Fan entered the World¡¯s End Pavilion, a friendly female attendant with a slender figure and a beautiful appearance approached him with a warm smile.

    Chen Fan answered, ¡°I want to sellrge amounts of beast skin.¡±

    ¡°This way, please, Young Master.¡±

    The female attendant didn¡¯t show contempt when she heard Chen Fan was here to sell things. She remained polite as ever and brought Chen Fan in front of a store.

    ¡°Young Master, this store specializes in acquiring demon beast fur, skin, and other items,¡± she exined.

    An elder sat inside that store. Chen Fan immediately realized his cultivation was at the seventh level. He wasn¡¯t weak at all.

    ¡°Kid, show me what you''re selling so that I can assess the price,¡± said the elder.

    Chen Fan nodded and emptied the contents of his storage pouch onto the tabletop. The items ttered as they piled up in front of him.

    ¡°That¡¯s a lot!¡± eximed the elder, surprised by the quantity. He quickly stood up from his seat, his eyes filled with shock as he examined the hill of valuable demon beast skin, bones, and other parts.

    Many people came to the World¡¯s End Pavilion to sell demon beast skins and demon cores.

    However, those who brought such arge amount at once, like Chen Fan, were usually members of hunting squads who specialized in hunting demon beasts for a living.

    The elder, with his experience, could easily tell that Chen Fan did not belong to a hunting squad.

    Chen Fan was too young, and he didn¡¯t have the typical fierce auramon to members of hunting squads.

    Not only the elder and the attendant were astonished, but even the other people nearby who had alsoe to sell their loot were taken aback.

    ¡°Hiss, Golden Scaled Dragon Python¡¯s skin, Green-Faced Tiger¡¯s fangs, ming Lion¡¯s fur... My god, there are so many tier-one, seventh-level demon beast furs. This kid¡¯s cultivation is only at the sixth level. Where did he get those from? Did he get lucky and pick them up somewhere?¡±

    The surrounding crowd cast envious gazes in this direction, wishing they could im the loot for themselves.

    This pile of treasures was worth at least a thousand primeval stones, a substantial fortune.

    ¡°Tsk tsk. Python skin, snake poison, snake¡¯s saliva, tiger bones, tiger ws, Iron-Back Blue Wolf¡¯s fur. Good stuff. They¡¯re all good stuff.¡±

    The elder¡¯s eyes lit up as he appraised the items.

    Chen Fan''s items were of high quality and in pristine condition, further increasing their value.

    The elder''s keen insight allowed him to evaluate therge pile of items swiftly. He looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°After going through them, the total amountes to five thousand primeval stones.¡±

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    The surrounding crowd gasped in astonishment upon hearing the elder''s valuation.

    Everyone¡¯s gazes toward Chen Fan were filled with envy and greed. Some even had dark thoughts, hatching up a sinister plot.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly inside.

    It went without saying he could sense the greedy looksing from the crowd.

    After receiving a bag of primeval stones from the elder, Chen Fan took out twenty and tossed them to the female attendant. She immediately thanked Chen Fan profusely, and a hint of affection appeared on her face.

    ¡°I want to buy a good sword. Please show me your selection,¡± Chen Fan told the female attendant.

    ¡°Sure, please follow me, Young Master,¡± the attendant replied sweetly, tucking away the twenty primeval stones. She led Chen Fan to a store specializing in selling precious swords.

    Inside the store, an array of gleaming swords caught Chen Fan''s eye. They varied in length, but all exuded a sharp and cold aura.

    With five thousand primeval stones on him, Chen Fan was feeling rich.

    He carefully examined each sword until he came across a three-foot-long, two-finger-wide precious sword. Engraved on the de were the characters "Killing Wind."

    Chen Fan lightly flicked his finger against the de, making it tremble and emit a crisp humming sound reminiscent of a string instrument. Then, he pulled out a strand of his hair and blew it at the sword¡¯s edge, immediately cutting it in two. It was iparably sharp.

    ¡°Good. Very good. I¡¯ll take this Killing Wind," Chen Fan dered, expressing his fondness.

    This sword could slice through iron like mud and effortlessly cut through anything in its path. It surpassed Liao Fan''s sword by far.

    ¡°Fantastic choice, Young Master! Killing Wind was made with deep sea cold iron as the main material, with many other precious fine metals added to it. It underwent a 49-day forging process. It slices iron like mud and cuts anything in its path. With this sword, Young Master would be like a tiger with wings, sweeping through your enemies¡ª¡±

    ¡°Enough with the ttery. How many primeval stones for it?¡±

    Chen Fan interrupted the elder¡¯s incessant chatter.

    ¡°One hundred primeval stones.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded. He took out 100 primeval stones and tossed them over. He suddenly caught sight of a familiar figure walking deeper into the World''s End Pavilion from the corner of his eye.

    ¡°Senior Sister.¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes.

    He saw Qin Yao passing through the main hall and heading straight toward a door. She paused momentarily, entered through the door, and disappeared from sight.

    ¡°What¡¯s behind that door?¡± Chen Fan asked, shifting his gaze toward the attendant.

    ¡°Young Master, behind that door is our World¡¯s End Pavilion¡¯s Auction Hall. We¡¯re holding one today, and lots of treasures will be up,¡± the female attendant answered.

    ¡°Oh.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded.

    He realized that the auction hall held the true treasures, unlike the items sold in the main hall stores, which were rtively less expensive.

    He knew that auctions often showcased profound tier martial arts, Yuanfu realm demon beasts'' demon cores, high-grade natural treasures, powerful weapons, and more.

    <i>Senior Sister came to the World¡¯s End Pavilion and went straight to the auction hall. Could it be that she''s here specifically to bid for something?</i> With that thought in mind, he decided to head toward the auction hall to satisfy his curiosity and see what kind of treasures would be avable for bidding.

    He knew that items sold at auctions were not cheap, especially when multiple bidderspeted for the same item. It was not umon for the final price to skyrocket, reaching several times or even tens of times higher than the market value.

    Since Qin Yao was here to bid for something, Chen Fan thought that he could lend her a hand if she needed more primeval stones topete with others for the desired treasure.

    Additionally, he was genuinely interested in witnessing the range of treasures presented in the World''s End Pavilion auction.

 Chapter 56 - Fire Spirit Chalcedony

    <h4>Chapter 56 - Fire Spirit Chalcedony</h4>

    Chen Fan walked through the lobby and approached the door. Two guards standing in front of the door stopped him and announced, "Hold it. It costs twenty primeval stones per person to enter the auction hall."

    ¡°Twenty!?¡±

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow.

    It seemed excessive for everyone to pay that much just to enter. After all, that amount was equivalent to half a year''s worth of allowance for a Spring Autumn Sect outer disciple.

    Had it been a few months ago, Chen Fan would have fussed over every primeval stone. Now that he was rich, however, he casually tossed Twenty primeval stones over and entered through the door.

    ......

    The World''s End Pavilion''s auction hall wasvishly decorated, with even the walls adorned with beautiful crystals. It exuded magnificence.

    The hall itself was spacious, amodating over a thousand seats. Additionally, there were several private rooms on the second floor reserved for individuals of high status and position.

    The auction hall was nearly full, bustling with a lively crowd reminiscent of a fair. Among the sea of people, powerful auras emanated, with even Qi Grandmasters present. Chen Fan scanned the crowd, searching for Qin Yao''s figure.

    Just then, a voice called out from behind him.

    ¡°This way, please, Young Master Lin,¡± said an auction hall staff member leading a group. Walking at the forefront were a man and a woman.

    The man, dressed in luxurious attire, appeared pale and weak in his steps. Evidently, he was a young master from a wealthy family who had indulged too much in pleasure, depleting his strength.

    Beside Young Master Lin was a mboyantly dressed woman with above-average looks.

    She emitted a subtle charm and seemed delicate, almost leaning entirely on Young Master Lin as if she had no backbone.

    A group of fierce and vigorous-looking men followed behind these two. They were dressed like servants, but their auras seemed strong. Each of them possessed cultivations at the seventh or eighth level.

    ¡°Young Master Lin, I heard that a Fire Spirit Chalcedony will be auctioned this time. As you know, I¡¯m practicing an ice cultivation technique and at a crucial point. My cold qi is a little out of control, and I need this Fire Spirit Chalcedony¡ª¡± that woman said gently and weakly, looking rather pitiful.

    ¡°Haha.¡±

    Young Master Linughed before the woman could finish her sentence. He ced his palm on her raised hip and caressed her, a lustful gleam in his eyes. "Don''t worry, that Fire Spirit Chalcedony won''t go anywhere."

    ¡°Heehee.¡±

    The woman smiled charmingly. She kissed Young Master Lin¡¯s cheek and left a red lip print on it. Then, she followed the auction hall staff to the second floor, shaking her hips left and right. She giggled and said, ¡°Young Master Lin is the best. I''ll properly thank you once my cultivation progresses smoothly."

    Young Master Lin looked at the woman¡¯s swaying hips, a fire rising in his abdomen. The lust in his eyes grew more intense as he muttered ¡°little vixen¡± under his breath.

    Chen Fan shook his head and continued searching for Qin Yao¡¯s trace. Soon, his eyes narrowed, and a hint of joy appeared on his face. ¡°There she is.¡±

    He quickly walked over to her.

    ¡°Senior Sister.¡±

    Chen Fan came to Qin Yao¡¯s side. Fortunately, there was an avable seat next to her, and he promptly took it.

    Qin Yao turned her head and was momentarily stunned when she saw Chen Fan. After a brief pause, she asked inly, "Why are you here?"

    ¡°I happened to be selling some demon beast materials at the World¡¯s End Pavilion and saw you, Senior Sister. That¡¯s why I followed you here.¡±

    Chen Fan exined and asked, ¡°Senior Sister, are you here to bid on something?¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡±

    Qin Yao nodded. ¡°Father is almost done preparing the materials for me to fuse with the Bone Spirit me, but we stillck a piece of Fire Spirit Chalcedony. After inquiring around, we heard World¡¯s End Pavilion will auction off one today. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here.¡±

    Qin Yao paused momentarily, looked straight toward Chen Fan, and said, ¡°Chen Fan, thank you. Thank you for helping me win the Bone Spirit me.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that, Senior Sister. It''s only natural for me to assist.¡± Chen Fan said, smiling. However, he couldn''t help but recall the presence of Young Master Lin''s group. It seemed that somepetition was inevitable, as they were also interested in bidding for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony.

    However, since it was something Qin Yao needed, Chen Fan would ensure that she got it, even if he had to spend all five thousand primeval stones he¡¯d just gotten.

    As the two continued their casual conversation, the auctionmenced. A gray-robed elder emerged from the back of the auction stage. His powerful aura indicated that he was a Qi Grandmaster.

    The elder surveyed the surroundings and pped his hands. The entire auction hall quickly quieted down.

    ¡°Everyone, wee to our World¡¯s End Pavilion¡¯s Auction Hall. I will be your auctioneer for today.¡±

    "Without further ado, let us begin the auction. It is time to present our first item."

    The elder conducting the auction was swift and decisive, concisely delivering his words.

    A beautiful woman emerged from the backstage, holding a two-meter-long de with both hands. The de emitted a chilling light, captivating the crowd''s attention.

    ¡°The first item is a de treasure, named the Snowcloud de, a grade-two de. When imbued with primeval qi, the emitted de qi will be cold as ice and snow, allowing you to freeze your enemies. With each swing, white snowkes scatter, showcasing its extraordinary power. This Snowcloud de is a rare treasure, particrly beneficial for martial artists practicing cold attribute cultivation techniques. The starting bid is three hundred primeval stones, with increments of no less than ten primeval stones for each subsequent bid.¡±

    Many in the crowd were intrigued.

    It was especially true for the cultivators who specialized in de arts. Everyone¡¯s eyes shone brightly, thinking they¡¯d be truly like a tiger with wings if they managed to bid this Snowcloud de for themselves, bing invincible within their cultivation realm.

    <i>Tsk tsk. The starting bid is at three hundred primeval stones... </i>Chen Fan sighed in his heart.

    The Killing Wind Sword he had purchased earlier only cost a hundred primeval stones.

    However, he acknowledged that his grade one sword paledpared to this grade two de. Even without infusing it with primeval qi, the Snowcloud de could easily cleave the Killing Wind Sword in two.

    Furthermore, the higher a weapon¡¯s grade was, the higher the amplification of the martial artist¡¯s primeval qi.

    With a superior weapon, a martial artist with a lower cultivation level could potentially challenge opponents who were one or two realms higher.

    Soon, a burly man sessfully bid for the Snowcloud de for five hundred primeval stones.

    The auction continued, with treasures being presented one after another, sparking a flurry of bidding from the enthusiastic crowd.

    The atmosphere in the auction hall remained lively throughout. An endless stream of voices calling out for bids rang out. During this time, two treasures even caught the attention of prominent figures on the second floor, prompting them to participate in the bidding.

    Chen Fan knew the items that appeared first weren¡¯t the best. As the auction progressed, the treasures became more valuable. Not only would the people in the lobby on the first floorpete fiercely for them, but even those in the private rooms on the second floor would actively ce their bids.

    Soon, more than a dozen treasures found their new owners.

    ¡°The next item is a Fire Spirit Chalcedony. It is obtained from the depths of a ten thousand years old volcano near the magma. This chalcedony has absorbed the energy of the magma for thousands of years, transforming into magma chalcedony. It can make a martial artist¡¯s fire attribute primeval qi even more condensed, even burn like magma when unleashed, burning mountains and boiling seas. I¡¯m sure many friends in this hall are here for this treasure. So, let¡¯s begin the auction for this item. The starting bid is three hundred primeval stones.¡±

    A beautiful female attendant carried a jade disk onto the stage.

    Immediately, the crowd felt a wave of burning heat spread out. The temperature in the auction hall instantly rose.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes suddenly lit up.

 Chapter 57 - Got It

    <h4>Chapter 57 - Got It</h4>

    Young Master Lin¡¯s group upied the thirty-fourth room on the second floor.

    Despite its modest size, the room boasted exquisite and opulent decorations. Plush beast skin covered the red sandalwood chairs strategically positioned to face the auction stage, offering a panoramic view of the proceedings below.

    Young Master Lin, seated in a rather uncouth manner, spread his legs wide and rested his foot on hisp.

    Nestled in his arms was a woman who leaned into him, allowing him to caress her sensually. She moaned and gasped, clearly enjoying his touch.

    ¡°Young Master Lin, the Fire Spirit Chalcedony is here!¡± The woman, previously lost in pleasure, immediately perked up and sat upright.

    Young Master Lin pulled the woman back into his arms,ughing. ¡°Rest assured. This Fire Spirit Chalcedony is yours. Let''s see who dares challenge my wealth and desire.¡±

    In another private room not far away from Young Master Lin¡¯s, four people sat down, each carrying a sword on their backs. They exuded a formidable aura, sharp and intense.

    Among them were three men and one woman. The leader, a fiery-tempered teenager, radiated an aura akin to moltenva. His cultivation level stood at thete stage of the seventh level.

    ¡°Junior Brother Wang, there¡¯s a Fire Spirit Chalcedony in this auction, as expected. If you obtain it, your profound tier cultivation technique will undoubtedly advance; the power of your Great Sun Universe Sword will increase significantly,¡± said a youth dressed in a golden robe with a faint smile, lightly knocking on the table.

    The teenager, Junior Brother Wang, also shed a smile and said, ¡°You¡¯re right. With this Fire Spirit Chalcedony, I can advance to the eighth level. My primeval qi will be like ming magma, and the might of my Great Sun Universe Sword will also reach new heights. I will be able to sweep through everyone in the sect under the Qi Grandmaster realm then.¡±

    ¡°Haha, then let us extend our congrattions in advance for Junior Brother''s remarkable increase in strength,¡± another youth chimed in, his tone filled with ttery.

    ¡°Heehee, after Senior Brother Tengfei obtains this Fire Spirit Chalcedony, your strength will indeed reach new heights. When the timees to enter the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, you will surely gain even greater benefits. Advancing to the Qi Grandmaster realm wouldn¡¯t be a problem either. Senior Brother Tengfei and Senior Brother Fuchen will surely be the pride of our Floating Cloud Sword Sect. At that time, don¡¯t forget this Junior Sister and help me out," the woman added with a smile, yfully winking at Senior Brother Wang.

    These four people were disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, one of the four great sects in Qingyang County.

    Hearing the three¡¯s ttery, a hint of arrogance appeared on Wang Tengfei¡¯s face, but he said humbly, ¡°I may be considered somewhat talented, butpared to my older cousin Wang Fuchen, I am far inferior. I am nothing.¡±

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re too modest, Junior Brother Wang. You brothers are the idols of us outer sect disciples.¡± The threeughed.

    ¡°All right, the Fire Spirit Chalcedony ising up.¡±

    Wang Tengfei waved his hand, shifting his gaze toward the Fire Spirit Chalcedony on the auction stage below. A determined look shed in his eyes as he set his sights on obtaining it.

    ......

    ¡°Senior Sister, it¡¯s indeed the Fire Spirit Chalcedony,¡± Chen Fan said with a smile, and his eyes lit up.

    Qin Yao also felt a surge of excitement, but she quicklyposed herself. She looked a little troubled and mumbled, ¡°Sigh, looks like it will be impossible to obtain this Fire Spirit Chalcedony. Father sent me down the mountain with only three hundred and fifty primeval stones.¡±

    She stood up and prepared to leave, realizing that the Fire Spirit Chalcedony was beyond her reach.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Senior Sister. I have the money.¡±

    Chen Fan firmly held Qin Yao''s wrist, preventing her from leaving. ¡°I have quite a lot of primeval stones on me. No matter what, I¡¯ll help Senior Sister buy this Fire Spirit Chalcedony.¡±

    Somewhere deep in Qin Yao¡¯s heart, she felt a strange softness. She wanted to say something but felt a lump in her throat, unable to utter a single word.

    Meanwhile, the sounds of bidding had already begun to rise and fall. In just a short period, the price of the Fire Spirit Chalcedony had escted to five hundred primeval stones.

    This amount created a significant divide, causing many bidders to reach their financial limits. Consequently, fewer voices werepeting for the item.

    ¡°Five hundred and fifty primeval stones.¡±

    Young Master Lin, situated in private room number thirty-four on the second floor, decided to make his move.

    ¡°Five hundred and sixty primeval stones.¡±

    ¡°Five hundred and eighty primeval stones.¡±

    ¡°Six hundred! I want to see who dares challenge me, Lin Ba, for this Fire Spirit Chalcedony!¡± Young Master Lin, disying his wealth and dominance, swiftly raised the bid to six hundred primeval stones.

    Upon hearing this bid, some individuals immediately backed down, intimidated by Lin Ba''s reputation.

    Lin Ba hailed from the prestigious Lin n. It was a martial n in Watermoon City, a grade-one city under the jurisdiction of Qingyang County, with an old ancestor in the Yuanfu realm.

    ¡°Six hundred and ten!¡± Chen Fan raised his card and bid just as Lin Ba¡¯s voice fell.

    ¡°Damn it. You have guts, brat. I¡¯ve already given the word out, and you still dare bid. Are you looking to die?¡± Lin Ba¡¯s gaze shot over from the private room, vicious as a snake.

    Chen Fan said inly, ¡°Keep going if you have the money; go away if you don¡¯t. Who cares if you¡¯re Lin Ba or a bastard? In the World''s End Pavilion, the onlynguage that matters is money¡ªprimeval stones, you understand? Poor bastard.¡±

    ¡°Argh, damn it. Damn you! You dare call me a poor bastard? Just wait and see. Seven hundred primeval stones!¡± Lin Ba, consumed by anger, shouted and raised the bid to a sky-high price.

    ¡°Seven hundred and ten primeval stones,¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    ¡°Eight hundred primeval stones!¡± Lin Ba couldn¡¯t restrain his anger and raised the price again.

    ¡°Eight hundred and ten primeval stones,¡± Chen Fan called out unhurriedly, increasing the bid by precisely ten primeval stones as usual.

    ¡°Damn it, damn it! A thousand primeval stones!¡± Lin Ba, in a fit of anger, raised the bid by nearly two hundred primeval stones in one go. He jumped to his feet and cursed loudly, his soul seemingly ready to leave him.

    ¡°Junior Brother, why don¡¯t we let it go? This price is too much,¡± Qin Yao pulled on Chen Fan¡¯s sleeve and whispered.

    A thousand primeval stones were significantly higher than the market price, nearly two or three times the Fire Spirit Chalcedony¡¯s value.

    Furthermore, she was worried Chen Fan didn¡¯t have that many primeval stones.

    If he couldn''t fulfill the paymentter, the World''s End Pavilion wouldn''t be a forgiving ce.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Senior Sister. I know what I¡¯m doing. Eleven hundred primeval stones! That Lin Ba guy or whatever, keep going if you can. This gentleman is notcking in money. I do want to see how much more you have in your pockets.¡±

    Chen Fan''s nonchnt attitude infuriated Lin Ba even more.

    ¡°Damn it, damn it! You little bastard, I don¡¯t believe this!¡±

    Lin Ba was so frustrated that he wanted to bid again, but the servant standing behind him said, ¡°You can¡¯t, Young Master. Our objective here is that item. If you keep squabbling with this kid, I¡¯m afraid that item will... And when we return to the n, I¡¯m afraid Old Master will fly into a rage. We can just let this kid have his way for now. I¡¯ll send someone to keep an eye on him. Once the auction ends, we can dispose of him and consider it as him spending money to buy the Fire Spirit Chalcedony for you, Young Master.¡±

    Lin Ba¡¯s anger finally subsided slightly. ¡°Alright. Immediately send someone to keep an eye on him. He darespete with me and even insult this Young Master. I¡¯ll have him wish he was dead instead!¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    That servant waved his hand. Another servant, with cultivation at the seventh level, promptly left the private room to carry out the task.

    Lin Ba sat back down on the chair with an ugly expression. A sinister look shed in his eyes, looking forward to the end of the auction. He nned to make Chen Fan regret his entire life.

    Meanwhile, in the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples¡¯ private room:

    ¡°What do we do, Junior Brother Wang? Our main objective here is that item. If we bid for this Fire Spirit Chalcedony, I¡¯m afraid we won¡¯t be able to get our hands on that item,¡± said the gold-robed youth.

    The price of the Fire Spirit Chalcedony had already exceeded a thousand primeval stones. Although they had enough primeval stones, their true objective wasn¡¯t the Fire Spirit Chalcedony but the grand finale of this auction.

    A peculiar glint shed in Wang Tengfei''s eyes as he replied, ¡°It doesn''t matter. That kid has offended Lin Ba. He wouldn¡¯t let him off. He can get it, but he won¡¯t get to use it. When the timees, we''ll y the role of the oriole behind the mantis. I¡¯ll definitely get my hands on that Fire Spirit Chalcedony. No one can take it away from me.¡± [1]

    ¡°Hehe, since you put it that way, Junior Brother Wang, then let¡¯s have this kid hold onto the Fire Spirit Chalcedony for us temporarily.¡± The gold-robed youth smiled coldly.

    Since Lin Ba didn¡¯t continue bidding, Chen Fan got the Fire Spirit Chalcedony for eleven hundred primeval stones.

    1. Popr idiom, the praying mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind. It means to pursue a narrow gain while neglecting a greater danger. ?

 Chapter 58 - Realm Breaking Pill

    <h4>Chapter 58 - Realm Breaking Pill</h4>

    The intense bidding for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony created excitement in the auction hall.

    The attendees were taken aback when the price of the Fire Spirit Chalcedony soared to an astonishing eleven hundred primeval stones.

    All eyes turned to Chen Fan, and many people shook their heads with a tinge of regret in their eyes.

    They believed thatpeting for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony with Lin Ba was foolish and that Chen Fan had only paid the price of the item for Lin Ba.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t pay any heed to these people¡¯s gazes.

    For Qin Yao, he was willing topete with Lin Ba; if need be, even with the prince of the Great Chu Empire.

    ¡°Junior Brother, you...¡± Qin Yao¡¯s heart shook. Eleven hundred primeval stones was a sum that was simply beyond her imagination.

    Chen Fan patted the back of Qin Yao¡¯s hand and smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Senior Sister. Are there any other treasures you want? Tell me if there are. I¡¯ll bid them all for you.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing else,¡± Qin Yao blurted, fearing that Chen Fan would once again bid an exorbitant price if she mentioned anything.

    Chen Fan nodded with a smile and said, ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s continue watching and see what other treasures are up for bidding.¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t in a hurry to leave.

    Although he had sessfully bid for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony, he had to wait until the end to go backstage and pay for his item. Only then would he get the Fire Spirit Chalcedony.

    The auction continued as treasures were brought out one by one. Among them, a profound-tier martial art was also presented for auction, captivating the crowd and sparking a bidding frenzy.

    During this period, Chen Fan made another sessful bid for a bottle of Tiger Demon Body Tempering Pills, used for tempering one''s body and strengthening tendons and bones.

    As the auction progressed, reaching its final stages, the atmosphere in the hall peaked.

    Even those who had not participated in the bidding, including the Qi Grandmasters, were now fully engaged. They sat upright, their eyes shining brightly as if preparing for battle.

    Sensing the unusual atmosphere, Chen Fan grew more serious and curious about the grand finale of the auction.

    ¡°Hoho. Thank you, everyone here, for supporting this auction. This uing item is thest treasure for this auction. It¡¯s a pill. I believe that everyone here is well aware of its significance, so I won''t borate much. Thest item is a Realm Breaking Pill, and we will start the bidding at one thousand primeval stones.¡±

    As soon as the elder¡¯s voice fell, the entire auction hall erupted with excitement.

    People stood up from their seats one after another.

    The Qi Grandmasters in the private rooms couldn''t contain their anticipation. Each of them stood up, determined to acquire this item, as it was the sole reason for their presence here.

    The Realm Breaking Pill was a three-star pill. Moreover, its ingredients were as valuable, if not more, than those required to refine some four-star pills.

    The most important point was that it had a fatal attraction to Qi Grandmasters.

    As its name suggested, the Realm Breaking Pill could help martial artists advance to the next level.

    The journey to reach the Yuanfu realm for Qi Grandmasters was fraught with a high failure rate. A failed attempt could result in severe injuries or even permanent damage to their cultivation, rendering them useless.

    Realm Breaking Pills could increase the sess rate by thirty to fifty percent, resulting in a high sess rate for most of them.

    During the first phase of the grandpetition, Sun Wenshan wanted to get the Realm Breaking Pill in Qin Changkong¡¯s possession. He had wagered the Bone Spirit me, but Chen Fan had ultimately killed his son with a single punch. This not only made him lose his Bone Spirit me but also shattered his hopes of breaking through to the Yuanfu realm. The depth of his hatred could only be imagined.

    ¡°It¡¯s finally appeared! Realm Breaking Pill, you¡¯re mine!¡± eximed a ferocious-looking Qi Grandmaster in the lobby. He seemed ready to make anyone who dared topete with him for the pill his sworn enemy, willing to eliminate them all.

    ¡°Realm Breaking Pill, Realm Breaking Pill! With it, I can finally advance and be a Yuanfu realm expert. The world would be my backyard then!¡± Another Qi Grandmasterughed out loud.

    ¡°It¡¯s indeed the Realm Breaking Pill. Good. Very good! I have to obtain it. This is my hope of entering the Yuanfu realm. Anyone who dares to challenge me will face the de in my hands!¡±

    In the thirty-fourth private room:

    <i>Thud!</i>

    Lin Ba stepped on the table, emanating a strong killing intent as he stared at the Realm Breaking Pill below. ¡°Whoever dares topete with me this time will be making an enemy of my Lin n. I have only one word for you: death!¡±

    The expressions of the Qi Grandmaster experts in the lobby immediately sank.

    ¡°Hmph, your Lin n may be influential, but if you want to obtain this Realm Breaking Pill, you still need to dig deep into your pockets. With this Realm Breaking Pill, I can be a Yuanfu realm expert. Will I still be afraid of your Lin n?¡± said a Qi Grandmaster with a cold smile.

    ¡°Alright, you, I remember you now. Get ready to be pursued to the ends of the world by my n¡¯s experts!¡± Lin Ba looked at the Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°Hmph, how impressive, Lin n. My Sun n will be taking this Realm Breaking Pill. I want to see whether your Lin n dares to go to war with my Sun n!¡± dered an elder coldly from another private room, representing another prominent martial n.

    In the ninth private room, the room with the Floating Cloud Sword Sect¡¯s group:

    ¡°Junior Brother Wang, looks like many have set their eyes on the Realm Breaking Pill this time,¡± remarked a youth in a golden robe, wearing a calm expression as if the pill was destined to be theirs.

    Wang Tengfei said inly, ¡°That¡¯s only natural. A Realm Breaking Pill is almost guaranteed to produce a Yuanfu realm expert. Such individuals would be considered ancestors in any prominent martial n and even esteemed experts in our Floating Cloud Sword Sect. Who wouldn''t want to advance to the Yuanfu realm?

    ¡°But I am on my cousin¡¯s orders this time to bring this Realm Breaking Pill back. With this pill, he will immediately advance to the Yuanfu realm after entering the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. Then, he will be strong enough to dominate the outer disciples from the other sects, earning glory for our Floating Cloud Sword Sect.¡±

    The youth in a golden robe nodded. ¡°Of course. With Senior Brother Fuchen¡¯s strength, he¡¯s sure to advance to the Yuanfu realm after obtaining this Realm Breaking Pill. Moreover, I¡¯ve already scouted around. Of the three other great sects, only Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Zhong Li has recently be a Qi Grandmaster. None of the Mountain River Sect¡¯s and Burning Incense Valley¡¯s outer sect disciples are Qi Grandmasters yet.¡±

    ¡°However, during the trip to the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, the other sects will undoubtedly reward their outer sect disciples with many primeval stones and pills, greatly enhancing the cultivation of those qualified to enter the blessednd. All three great sects may have Qi Grandmasters leading them.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s nothing. My cousin¡¯s cultivation has long since be a Qi Grandmaster. Killing newbie Qi Grandmasters is as simple as crushing an ant for him.¡±

    Wang Tengfei revealed a look of disdain and continued, ¡°He needs this Realm Breaking Pill to be prepared for any unexpected dangers, as the blessednd also has formidable demon beasts.¡±

    ¡°Alright, the bidding has started. We¡¯ll let them fight it out first,¡± Wang Tengfei said, observing the crowd with a smirk.

    The bidding had already started. To him, those bidders were nothing more than clowns. No matter how they fought for it, this Realm Breaking Pill would belong to him in the end.

 Chapter 59 - Asking for It

    <h4>Chapter 59 - Asking for It</h4>

    The whole auction hall heated up as soon as the Realm Breaking Pill appeared, reaching a climax.

    The Qi Grandmasters present released their powerful auras without showing any restraint.

    Various formidable energies intertwined in the auction hall, creating a tumultuous scene.

    ¡°So thest item is a Realm Breaking Pill. It¡¯s no surprise so many Qi Grandmasters are participating in this auction. Tsk tsk...¡± Chen Fan sighed.

    The Qi Grandmasters present were likely topete for it fiercely. After all, it was their chance to advance to the Yuanfu realm.

    However, in Chen Fan¡¯s opinion, the Qi Grandmasters in the lobby wouldn¡¯t ultimately get the pill.

    To reach the level of a Qi Grandmaster, they must have encountered significant opportunities, but theycked financial support. They were rogue cultivators with shallow pockets.

    When it came to cultivation, four major factors needed attention: technique,panion, wealth, andnd.

    Technique referred to the cultivation method.

    Companion referred to a fellow cultivator or Daopanion.

    Wealth referred to economic conditions and financial resources.

    Land referred to the cultivation environment, such as grotto heavens and blessednds.

    The true contenders for the Realm Breaking Pill were most likely the individuals in the private rooms on the second floor.

    They all hailed fromrge ns or powers, with strong backing and deep pockets, allowing them to bid any price they desired.

    Although Chen Fan had five thousand primeval stones on him, after spending nearly two thousand of them, he wasn¡¯t qualified to partake in this fight for the Realm Breaking Pill.

    If he had enough money, he, too, would have fought for it.

    After all, he also hailed from a martial n.

    However, his n was only a martial n from a grade-two city and couldn''t bepared to prominent ns like the Lin n or the Sun n, which had Yuanfu realm powerhouses guarding them. [1]

    His father, a Qi Grandmaster, had been stuck in this cultivation realm for over a decade.

    If he could obtain this Realm Breaking Pill, his father could advance to the Yuanfu realm, elevating the n¡¯s strength to another level.

    Chen Fan and Qin Yao sat in their seats, listening to the escting bids from the crowd.

    The atmosphere was much fiercerpared to when he and Lin Ba fought for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony.

    The Realm Breaking Pill¡¯s price soon skyrocketed to a staggering three thousand primeval stones, leaving Chen Fan shocked.

    However, this price didn¡¯t scare off those Qi Grandmasters at all.

    They had received prior information about the auction and came prepared.

    Even the Qi Grandmasters in the lobby had brought three to four thousand primeval stones with them.

    ¡°Thirty-three hundred primeval stones!¡±

    ¡°Thirty-five hundred primeval stones!¡±

    ¡°Thirty-eight hundred!¡±

    ¡°Four thousand!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    In the blink of an eye, it went to four thousand primeval stones.

    On the auction stage, the hosting elder wore a bright smile as he announced the participants'' bids, maintaining the intense atmosphere in the hall.

    The higher the price, the greater the profit for the auction hall.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Lin Ba, in the private room, was incredibly furious. He smashed the red sandalwood table into pieces with a powerful palm strike; his face contorted with anger.

    The Realm Breaking Pill¡¯s price had reached five thousand primeval stones.

    Very few people were stillpeting for the treasure now, all in private rooms on the second floor.

    ¡°Seven thousand. If you can go above this price, then this Realm Breaking Pill is yours!¡±

    Lin Ba called out this sky-high price like a fiend, a fierce aura roiling around him. This price was his limit.

    Down in the lobby, Chen Fan¡¯s jaw dropped when he heard this bid.

    Fortunately, Lin Ba''s target was the Realm Breaking Pill and not the Fire Spirit Chalcedony; otherwise, Chen Fan wouldn''t have stood a chance against him.

    Lin Ba¡¯s bid instantly caused the people in the other private rooms to cave in.

    ¡°This Lin Ba is so damnable, Junior Brother Wang. I¡¯ll go over right now and kill him!¡± The youth in the golden robe grew furious. A murderous aura rose around him.

    They had to watch as their Realm Breaking Pill fell into Lin Ba¡¯s hands. How could they not be angry?

    ¡°Enough. This is the World¡¯s End Pavilion. There¡¯s no way they will let it slide if you go over and kill him,¡± Wang Tengfei said coldly, his expression also dark.

    ¡°Then what should we do? Senior Brother Fuchen specifically ordered us to bring the Realm Breaking Pill back.¡±

    Wang Tengfei said, ¡°Keep an eye on him! Hmph, I have to bring the Realm Breaking Pill back, no matter what. As for the Lin n, they can trying to our Floating Cloud Sword Sect to demand justice if they can. I¡¯ll see if they dare to!¡±

    Ultimately, Lin Ba bought the Realm Breaking Pill for seven thousand primeval stones.

    As the auction concluded, Chen Fan and Qin Yao went backstage to settle their payments and get the Fire Spirit Chalcedony.

    ¡°Here, Senior Sister."

    Chen Fan directly offered the Fire Spirit Chalcedony to Qin Yao.

    ¡°Chen Fan, th-thank you,¡± Qin Yao said softly, holding the Fire Spirit Chalcedony.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to be polite with me, Senior Sister. I¡¯m willing to do anything for you. After all, it is my duty. Alright, let¡¯s head back to the sect, Senior Sister.¡±

    ......

    When they left the World¡¯s End Pavilion, Chen Fan noticed people following them from behind. A cold, killing intent shed in his eyes.

    ¡°Be careful, Senior Sister. Someone has their eyes on us,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Qin Yao nodded, her senses sharp enough to detect the abnormality. She asked, "I wonder who they are?"

    ¡°That goes without saying. It must be Lin Ba¡¯s group.¡±

    Chen Fan continued, ¡°But I think they¡¯re just looking to die, to dare have designs on us. Let¡¯s quickly leave the city and lure them out.¡±

    Killing intent rose in Chen Fan¡¯s heart.

    The two moved swiftly, quickly leaving the city and heading toward the Spring Autumn Sect.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    However, the feeling that they were being pursued became increasingly apparent after they exited the city.

    Lin Ba''s group was no longer concealing themselves. They came out into the open, riding tall horses and relentlessly giving chase.

    Chen Fan and Qin Yao reached a secluded clearing and stood their ground, their gazes fixed on the approaching figures led by Lin Ba.

    ¡°Oh? This kid knows he can''t escape and has decided to give up? Very well. I¡¯ll give you a choice. Kneel and offer up the Fire Spirit Chalcedony, along with your other treasures and primeval stones. Then, cripple your own cultivation. I can spare your dog life that way. Otherwise, it¡¯s death for you!¡±

    Lin Ba was on a Golden Horned Horse, looking down coolly at Chen Fan with an air of superiority.

    Lin Ba''s gaze shifted to Qin Yao, and his eyes immediately lit up. "Hmm? She''s your woman? Excellent. She''s quite beautiful. I''ve taken a liking to her. Offer her to me, and you might still have a chance to survive. Otherwise, no one in this world can save you!"

    ¡°Young Master Lin, am I not enough for you?¡±

    The woman, riding the Golden Horned Horse with Lin Ba, interjected with a soft and weak voice, her posture exuding charm that could awaken the most primal desires in a man''s heart.

    ¡°Haha, you little vixen. Of course, it¡¯s not enough. Not unless you and this long-legged beauty serve me at the same time under my crotch, moaning in joy.¡±

    Lin Ba rubbed the woman¡¯s chest roughly,ughing out loud.

    ¡°You¡¯re so mean," the woman yfully whined.

    "You little brat, why are you just standing there like a statue? Hurry up and hand over your woman, treasures, and primeval stones to Young Master Lin. Do you want to die?" the leader of Lin Ba''s followers shouted angrily, frustrated by Chen Fan''sck of response.

    A surge of killing intent emanated from Chen Fan''s eyes as he coldly retorted, "You''re begging for death!"

    1. In chapter 57 we learned the Lin n is from a grade 1 city. ?

 Chapter 60 - Stomped to Death

    <h4>Chapter 60 - Stomped to Death</h4>

    ¡°What did you say?¡±

    Chen Fan''s statement made Lin Ba stare at him in disbelief. ¡°Looks like you really want to die, you little bastard. I¡¯ll grant your wish, then. Do it, kill him. But don¡¯t hurt that woman.¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    The leading servant answered, his expression fierce.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    However, Chen Fan made the first move.

    A thunderp reverberated, catching the leading servant off guard. A deadly aura swiftly approached him.

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡± eximed the servant.

    He unleashed a palm strike and propelled himself into the air like a roc, utilizing his early-stage, eighth-level cultivation.

    ¡°You dodged it? Infinite Thunderp!¡±

    Chen Fan swung his arm, releasing a sword qi infused with lightning that struck the leading servant, sending him hurtling backward. He crashed onto the ground, howling in agony.

    Leaping into the air, Chen Fan descended with his Killing Wind Sword, aiming directly for the leading servant''s head.

    ¡°What?¡±

    All of this had happened in just a single breath¡¯s time. Chan Fan had effortlessly in an early-stage, eighth-level expert, making Lin Ba cry out in shock.

    Lin Ba''s anger red up instantly, and he bellowed, ¡°Move, all of you! Attack him together and reduce this bastard to minced meat!¡±

    After berating his servants, Lin Ba swiftly flipped his palm, conjuring a whirlwind that stirred up sand and rocks within a hundred paces. A tornado rushed toward Chen Fan.

    This was the ultimate martial art of the Lin n: the Whirlwind Force. This profound tier cultivation technique could propel rocks asrge as millstones in all directions. Its power was far from trivial.

    Despite Lin Ba''s paleplexion and reputation as a drunkard who indulged in worldly pleasures, he was still a descendant of a prominent martial n. He practiced a high-quality cultivation technique, and his cultivation was at the seventh level. The power he could bring out was extraordinary.

    A tornado taller than an adult was before Chen Fan in the blink of an eye.

    The gravel within the whirlwind collided, creating nging noises. If they struck anyone, they would surely disfigure them.

    The other servants were also raring to go, closing in on Chen Fan.

    Once Chen Fan sumbed to the Whirlwind Force and was down on the ground, they would swarm him,unching a flurry of attacks to turn him into minced meat.

    Qin Yao saw this from the side, and her expression sank. She wanted to help Chen Fan, but thetter said calmly and confidently, ¡°No need for you to make a move, Senior Sister. I alone am more than capable of dealing with these useless sacks of flesh.¡±

    With a swift swing of his arm, the Killing Wind Sword whistled through the air, apanied by thunderous cracks akin to firecrackers. A surge of primeval qi erupted, suppressing the whirlwind and restoring calm to the surroundings.

    Afterward, he threw a punch in the air.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A Vajra Seal, the size of a water jar, soared out of Chen Fan''s palm. A resounding boom followed, swiftly engulfing the battle-ready servants.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Explosions rang out continuously.

    Those servants with sixth- and seventh-level cultivation failed even to put up a fight. Their steel des broke, and they were sent flying before they could dodge Chen Fan¡¯s attack. Each of them spat out fresh blood, writhing on the ground in agony.

    Chen Fan proved unstoppable once he unleashed his power. He effortlessly overwhelmed them, leaving Lin Ba dumbfounded atop his Golden Horned Horse.

    Was this truly the might of a sixth-level expert?

    Even Qin Yao was stunned at the sight.

    Chen Fan had made a big ssh at the Outer Sect Grand Competition. However, it was the first time she had seen him disy such ferocity, and it shook her to the core.

    Chen Fan scanned the fallen enemies with a sweeping gaze. He brushed off his clothing and sneered. ¡°A bunch of trash dares to intercept me? You¡¯re seriously looking to die! And you, trash, do you think you¡¯re superior to others just because you¡¯re riding a horse? Get the hell down!¡±

    With a gesture, Chen Fanmanded the primeval qi to manifest as arge hand, seizing Lin Ba.

    That terrifying qi pressure left the Golden Horned Horse neighing in fear.

    ¡°Damn it, you cheap little bastard! Looks like I¡¯ve underestimated you. Break!¡±

    Lin Ba refused to be captured so easily. Despite his servants being defeated by Chen Fan, his expression remained fierce.

    A gust of whirlwind rose around him, transforming into a crescent machete. He swung it violently, shattering Chen Fan''srge qi hand.

    ¡°Hmph, you stupid fool!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned cold. He clenched his fist and unleashed a punch, causing the air to explode with a deafening rumble.

    The force behind the punch was like an angry dragon, shattering Lin Ba¡¯s crescent machete and smashing his chest.

    The sound of ribs cracking and breaking filled the air. Following a miserable scream, Lin Ba fell off the horseback and let out another scream.

    Chen Fan flitted, appearing before Lin Ba. He stepped on Lin Ba¡¯s face and cursed, ¡°You worthless trash! It''s one thing to pick a fight with me back at the auction hall, but daring to intercept and rob me? You must not know how to spell death. Do you truly believe your status as a Lin n descendant guarantees your survival?¡±

    ¡°Ahhhhh!¡±

    Lin Ba screamed madly as Chen Fan pressed down on his face.

    The overwhelming humiliation washed over him, driving him to the brink of insanity.

    He was a direct descendant of the Lin n. When had he ever suffered such humiliation?

    He had always been the one looking down on others, and now, being on the receiving end was an indescribable torment.

    He nearly died from anger!

    He spat out a mouthful of fresh blood.

    ¡°Damn it, you¡¯re looking to die, little bastard. You know that? My Lin n won¡¯t let you off. If I want you to die, then you will have no choice but to die. Just wait for my Lin n¡¯s experts¡¯ pursuit. You won¡¯t escape even if you hide at the ends of the world!¡± Lin Ba shouted frantically, struggling violently.

    ¡°Audacious! How dare you... Quickly release Young Master Lin! Do you not know of Young Master Lin¡¯s status? The Lin n isn¡¯t something a cheap little bastard like you could afford to offend, you...¡±

    On the Golden Horned Horse, the woman¡¯s expression changed. However, when she thought of Lin Ba¡¯s status, she began rebuking Chen Fan.

    ¡°Shut up!¡±

    Chen Fan directly cut off the woman¡¯s incessant jabbering.

    He threw a palm through the air, delivering a powerful p directly to her face.

    The woman was thrown off the horse¡¯s back. She spat out blood in midair, with even her teeth mixed in it.

    ¡°Damn it, you better let go. Don''t you realize who I am? I¡¯m Lin Ba, the young n leader of the Lin n. You dare treat me this way?! Do youprehend the severity of the offense you havemitted? Don¡¯t you know my Lin n isn¡¯t something you can afford to offend? Don¡¯t you know...¡±

    ¡°You talk too much nonsense. You¡¯re the Lin n¡¯s young n leader, so what? I will still kill you!¡±

    Chen Fan cut off Lin Ba¡¯s threats once more.

    A surge of primeval qi erupted violently under his feet. With a loud crush, Lin Ba¡¯s head burst like a watermelon, abruptly silencing his moring.

    If Lin Ba had merely attempted to rob him, it would have been tolerable. However, his audacity in harboring ill intentions toward Qin Yao was something Chen Fan could not bear.

    Based on this alone, no one in this world could save him.

    Lin Ba had to die!

 Chapter 61 - You Also Have to Die

    <h4>Chapter 61 - You Also Have to Die</h4>

    ¡°What? You actually dared to kill Young Master Lin?! You¡¯re dead, you know that? Young Master Lin¡¯s family won¡¯t let you off. They will find you wherever you are and kill you!¡±

    The woman froze in ce, dumbfounded, as she saw Lin Ba¡¯s head, which had burst like a watermelon.

    She never expected Chen Fan to actually have the audacity to kill Lin Ba.

    Was he not even the slightest bit afraid of the Watermoon City¡¯s Lin n?

    ¡°Shut your mouth. If another wordes out of it, I¡¯ll kill you too!¡±

    Chen Fan shot an icy cold stare over, making her face lose all color from fear, trembling uncontrobly.

    <i>Chchch.</i>

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t someone with a soft, merciful heart.

    He swung the Killing Wind repeatedly, unleashing streaks of incredibly sharp sword qi that fell upon the heavily injured servants, killing them.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, a swift and fierce sword light flew in from afar. In the blink of an eye, it struck the woman, cleaving her in two before she even realized what had happened.

    The sword light¡¯s momentum didn¡¯t dissipate, and it continued darting toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Surprised by this sudden turn of events, Chen Fan''s face darkened as he punched, obliterating the sword light into fragments.

    He raised his head and looked to the distance.

    Four silhouettes swiftly darted over and arrived at the scene quickly.

    ¡°Floating Cloud Sword Sect!¡±

    Qin Yao''s eyes narrowed as she recognized the attire of the four individuals.

    Chen Fan''s emotions also stirred, realizing that the four were disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± Chen Fan asked with a low voice, his expression stern.

    The earlier sword attack was clearly aimed at his life.

    Had he not been strong enough, that sword light would have taken his life after cutting that woman in half.

    The leader, Wang Tengfei, looked at Chen Fan disdainfully, not uttering a word as if Chen Fan wasn''t worthy of speaking to him.

    The youth in the golden robe smiled coldly and said, "Kid, since you know we''re disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, you should also know that we are far superior to a group of trash like Lin Ba''s followers.

    ¡°Now, retrieve the Realm Breaking Pill from Lin Ba and hand it over, along with the Fire Spirit Chalcedony you acquired. Kneel, and perhaps you can still walk away with your life. Otherwise, death is the only oue for you!¡±

    The youth in golden robes made no effort to conceal their intentions, openly revealing their sinister motives.

    They wanted both items: the Fire Spirit Chalcedony and the Realm Breaking Pill.

    Chen Fan had purchased the Fire Spirit Chalcedony at a high price, while Lin Ba had won the Realm Breaking Pill. From their point of view, this was them stealing food from a tiger¡¯s mouth. Naturally, they wouldn¡¯t let this matter end just like this.

    They had been tailing Chen Fan and Lin Ba since they left the World¡¯s End Pavilion, acting as the unseen oriole from behind.

    ¡°Kneel and offer them up with both hands. Remember, I want you on your knees!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Any dy will bring death to you!¡± added another. The remaining man and womanughed coldly, their intense killing intent fixated on Chen Fan. They made it clear that any resistance would be swiftly met with lethal force.

    ¡°Floating Cloud Sword Sect...¡±

    Chen Fan looked at the four. Despite being targeted by their fierce aura, he remained calm andposed. With great equanimity, he said, ¡°Very well. You dare to plot against me? All four of you are destined to die, even if you are disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect!¡±

    ¡°Senior Sister, hold the line for me, and don¡¯t let them run away. I¡¯ll kill them all!¡±

    Chen Fan instructed Qin Yao without turning back. He moved like a gale, producing a loud whistle, his Killing Wind Sword aimed at the head of the youth in golden robes.

    ¡°Damn it! You dare to underestimate our Floating Cloud Sword Sect? That''s a capital offense. You deserve a thousand deaths. I will kill you!¡±

    The man in golden robes was immediately enraged. His aura erupted, creating powerful airwaves that swept out, stirring up sand and gravel.

    ¡°You guys don¡¯t have to do anything. I alone am enough to kill him. I will make him regret humiliating our Floating Cloud Sword Sect!¡± shouted the man in the golden robes. The long sword at his back flew out of its sheath, radiating a fierce aura in all directions as if the surrounding air had transformed into sword qi.

    ¡°You little bastard, you think you¡¯re worthy of using a sword in front of me, Jin Guanglie? I¡¯ll show you what a sword really is! Die!¡± Jin Guanglie, the youth in golden robes, swung his arm, making his sword tremble continuously.

    Primeval qi streams slithered around the de, condensing into lethal tips that flew out, spreading densely and sealing the area.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect had built its foundation on the sword. Among the nearly hundred sects in the Great Chu Empire, their sword art ranked among the top. Every disciple there practiced with a sword, resulting in their formidablebat strength.

    The powerful sword tips swept across the ground, reducing the gravel to powder.

    With just one move, Jin Guanglie had disyed this tremendous strength.

    ¡°Petty tricks. Break!¡±

    Chen Fan remained unfazed, his expression unchanged.

    He activated his cultivation; with a swift arm swing, the Killing Wind Sword urately intercepted the sword tips, shattering them with a resounding bang.

    They all crumbled; there wasn¡¯t a single miss.

    ¡°Die!¡± Simultaneously, Chen Fan formed a fist with his left hand. His muscles crackled, and tendons and bones resonated thunderously as he unleashed a powerful punch. The force resembled a roaring dragon, making the air explode with a deafening boom.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Jin Guanglie¡¯s expression sank when he sensed the terrifying force behind this punch. He retreated urgently, continuously thrusting his arm forward. Streams of qi transformed into sharp sword lights, attempting to counter the punch.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan leaped up, instantly giving chase. His expression was cold and ruthless.

    Killing Wind Sword gleamed with a chilling light, apanied by thunderous ps.

    A swathe of lightning clouds about a hundred feet wide gathered above Jin Guanglie. Lightning shed and thunder rumbled. Bolts of lightning transformed into sword lights, striking down with precision.

    ¡°Sword Light Shivers Neen States...¡± [1]

    As Jin Guanglie unleashed his ultimate move, his sword emanated a burst of light.

    Streaks of sword qi shot out, slicing the space. As Jin Guanglie raised his arm, an iparably swift and fierce sword light darted forward, growing as thick as a water bucket.

    The man and woman''s unease turned into cold smiles upon witnessing Jin Guanglie''s execution of the Sword Light Shivers Neen States.

    ¡°This brat actually forced Senior Brother Jin Guanglie to use Sword Light Shivers Neen States. He does have some strength. No wonder he killed Lin Ba¡¯s group so easily alone,¡± said the woman.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, but that¡¯s all he amounts to. With Senior Brother Jin Guanglie using this move, he¡¯s dead without a doubt!¡± the other youth said with a cold smile.

    Wang Tengfei remained silent, his expression calm as ever, seemingly disinterested in the unfolding events.

    ¡°Little bastard, you should be proud of yourself for making me use this move to kill you,¡± Jin Guanglie said coldly.

    A dazzling sword light shot out, piercing the thunderclouds. Streaks of sword light descended from the clouds, cutting through the air and illuminating the surroundings.

    However...

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A voice, like the call of a grim reaper, rang out.

    The sword light that had rushed into the thunderclouds was instantly obliterated. Simultaneously, a purple streak of lightning struck down like a dragon, engulfing the heavens and earth.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Wang Tengfei''s expressionless face suddenly revealed a hint of dread as he witnessed the purple lightning dragon about to consume Jin Guanglie. With a swift swing of his arm, his long sword flew out of its sheath, unleashing a terrifying sword light aimed at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan''s expression shifted as he redirected his strike, intercepting the sh from Wang Tengfei.

    With a loud rumble, the two sword lights exploded. The resulting shockwave rippled through Jin Guanglie, riddling him with bloody, nasty holes. His miserable screams rang continuously.

    Chen Fan was forced to retreat, but he quickly recovered and flicked his fingers. A streak of primeval qi, as sharp as a sword, shot out, targeting Jin Guanglie.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Wang Tengfei moved. He spread out his fingers, and his primeval qi turned into arge, enveloping Jin Guanglie and pulling him back.

    However, he was one step toote. A bloody hole appeared between Jin Guanglie¡¯s eyebrows. He was already dead.

    1. Reference to a line in Gu Long¡¯s 1976 novel, Third Young Master¡¯s Sword ?

 Chapter 62 - Great Sun Universe Sword

    <h4>Chapter 62 - Great Sun Universe Sword</h4>

    ¡°Damn it, you actually killed Jin Guanglie!¡±

    Wang Tengfei looked at the bloody hole between Jin Guanglie¡¯s eyebrows. Fresh blood trickled out of the hole; he was dead.

    His face still had that expression of disbelief, seemingly still finding his fate unexpected.

    The other man and woman¡¯s expressions also changed drastically, their faces contorted with hatred.

    "What? Am I not allowed to kill him?" Chen Fan couldn''t help but let out a coldugh. "How amusing. You want to kill me, yet I''m not allowed to defend myself? Must I stand here obediently and let you finish the job? Or did you not expect me to fight back?"

    Chen Fan snapped his fingers, a cold smile ying on his lips. ¡°If you want to kill me, be prepared to face death yourself. Acting so arrogantly when you''re weak, relying solely on the reputation of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect. What fools you are!¡±

    ¡°Good, very well said!¡± Wang Tengfei slowly raised his head and locked eyes with Chen Fan. He looked calm again, but the atmosphere around him felt like the calm before the storm. Chen Fan¡¯s eyelids twitched violently, feeling like a venomous snake targeted him.

    Among these four disciples, Wang Tengfei seemed the most dangerous. His earlier attack had revealed that he was much stronger than Jin Guanglie.

    "You''re right," Wang Tengfei coldly remarked. ¡°Acting out without the strength to back yourself up is simply courting death. Now, are you prepared to die?¡± His words were apanied by a surge of killing intent that pierced the skies, sending a chill down everyone''s spines.

    As soon as his voice trailed off, his sword emitted a low hum.

    <i>Hummm!</i>

    A blinding sword light, resembling the sun, shed instantaneously, causing a tremendous explosion that shook the earth and echoed like a roaring fire dragon. Everything in its path was incinerated; even the gravel melted.

    ¡°Great Sun Universe Sword!¡± eximed the two disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect in shock.

    ¡°Senior Brother Wang Tengfei is using that at the start? He must be truly furious. It is a profound tier martial skill that harnesses the essence of the sun''s fire, possessing the power to burn mountains and boil seas.¡±

    Chen Fan immediately felt the surrounding temperature skyrocketing. It felt like he was in a furnace.

    Drawing upon his cultivation, Chen Fan shielded himself from this scorching heat. He narrowed his eyes as sharp beams cracked his qi shield, threatening to pierce through. Chen Fan struck out with a palm, making the air churn violently like raging sea waves.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    A series of explosions rang out as Chen Fan''s Chakravarti Seal shed against Wang Tengfei''s Great Sun Universe Sword.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan threw out another punch, unleashing a terrifying force that shook the very fabric of space and finally extinguished the sword light.

    ¡°Great Sun Universe, Thousand Miles Scorched Earth!¡±

    However, Wang Tengfei had already unleashed a second attack.

    The world instantly became a scorched earth spanning a thousand miles, melting the ground.

    Waves of qi condensed into fiery wolves, foxes, lions, leopards, tigers, and other demonic beasts racing across thend.

    Wherever these ming creatures passed, the earth turned red and ignited, resembling an apocalyptic scene from the depths of hell.

    ¡°Thunderp Sword, Thunder Descend!

    Chen Fan felt a hint of pressure.

    Wang Tengfei¡¯s cultivation was at the peak of the seventh level, but his strength wasparable to an eight-level expert.

    Harnessing his cultivation, the primeval qi within Chen Fan''s dantian surged like a vast sea, rushing through his wide meridians with great force. It spewed out from his head, forming a cloud of primeval qi and enveloping the area.

    Lightning swam within this cloud of primeval qi. Chen Fan raised Killing Wind high and brought it down with a powerful thrust. Immediately, streaks of thunderous sword light whistled down, aiming for the ming demon beasts.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    These thunderous sword lights struck the ming demon beasts, resulting in earth-shaking explosions. The hot, dusty wind swept out, spreading in all directions.

    Qin Yao and the others had no choice but to activate their cultivation, creating ayer of primeval qi to block the shockwave.

    ¡°Great Sun Universe, Great Sun Skyfire!¡±

    Wang Tengfei¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change in the slightest. With his long sword as his guide, he tapped into the power of the great sun in the sky.

    Streaks of mes in a streamlined shape descended from the sky, turning this area into the inside of a volcano. The gravel melted and bubbled constantly.

    Wang Tengfei swung his arm once more, making the mes of the sun condense on his sword. They transformed into a thin, zing light that burned through the air. When it approached Chen Fan, it seemed toe alive, violently spinning and erupting, transforming into a terrifying sea of mes.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s heart tightened. She swiftly moved, intending to save Chen Fan. However, two sharp whooshes resounded through the air as two streaks of sword qi shed before her, halting her in her tracks.

    ¡°No need to worry, Senior Sister.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice rang out from within the sea of mes.

    Chen Fan found himselfpletely engulfed by the scorching mes of the great sun, their intensity threatening to reduce him to ashes.

    The Great Sun Universe Sword was indeed worthy of being a profound tier cultivation technique, surpassing all expectations.

    Although Wang Tengfei''s limited cultivation prevented him from fully unleashing the sword''s power, even at sixty percent strength, it posed a significant threat to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Heaven Seizing Art, devour it!¡±

    Just as the situation turned dire, Chen Fan activated the Heaven Seizing Art.

    This ancient technique allowed him to seize and devour everything in heaven and earth, including the formidable mes of the great sun.

    Immediately, Chen Fan devoured the wisps of the sun''s energy. He began burning, and mes erupted from his pores.

    Chen Fan was undergoing a drastic transformation at this moment.

    Under the influence of the great sun''s energy, his Myriad Elephants Divine Art was improving at an explosive speed, instantly breaking through to the fifthyer.

    Wang Tengfei would never have imagined that Chen Fan would use the mes to temper his body, a daring act that seemed like a death wish.

    Nevertheless, Chen Fan had taken the risk, harnessing the power of the sun''s mes to refine his physique and experience an instantaneous surge in strength.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan abruptly learned something new; a wild look of joy appeared on his face. ¡°Heaven Seizing Furnace...¡±

    Within Chen Fan, his qi and blood circted in a distinct pattern, forming the shape of a furnace.

    Apparently, a Heaven Seizing Furnace would form in Chen Fan after his cultivation reached the Yuanfu realm, allowing him to refine everything in the world and turn it into a tonic for him.

    However, the current Chen Fan couldn''t reach this realm.

    The only reason he understood the power of the Heaven Seizing Art was that he had absorbed the mes of the great sun. Right now, not even the embryo of the furnace had coalesced in him.

    Suddenly, a powerful aura emanated from Chen Fan.

    The sun''s mes were immediately suppressed, and with a loud rumble, Chen Fan emerged from the sea of mes, creating a shockwave that made the air explode.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Wang Tengfei had no time to react before he felt like an ancient sacred mountain had struck him. His sword flew out of his hand, and he flew backward like a bird with broken wings, spewing blood into the air.

    With the Myriad Elephants Divine Art reaching the fifthyer, Chen Fan¡¯s physique had be as strong as an ancient elephant.

    Just imagine the impact of colliding with an ancient elephant!

    ¡°Junior Brother Tengfei!¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Wang!¡±

    Those two Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples had been keeping Qin Yao at bay. They were shocked to see Wang Tengfei flying a hundred meters away. They immediately cried out in rm and transformed into blurs, rushing over to him.

 Chapter 63 - Into His Pocket

    <h4>Chapter 63 - Into His Pocket</h4>

    ¡°Junior Brother Tengfei, are you okay?¡±

    The two disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect rushed to Wang Tengfei''s aid, their concern evident in their eyes.

    Wang Tengfei''s chest had caved in, and numerous ribs were broken, making him cough up blood incessantly.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Wang Tengfei''s bloodshot eyes bulged with disbelief. He couldn''tprehend why the situation had taken such a drastic turn.

    Chen Fan had been trapped in the sun¡¯s mes, so his primeval qi should have been exhausted eventually. He would then be consumed by the mes and reduced to ashes, ensuring his demise.

    "Prepare to meet your end!" Chen Fan dered, striding forward and delivering a powerful punch.

    His punch seemed to create a cage epassing all directions, unleashing a storm-like torrent of air that produced ttering sounds.

    <i>Whirr!</i>

    Enveloped by the punch¡¯s qi, Wang Tengfei¡¯s group struggled to breathe. They felt like the atmosphere had be an iron te pressing down on them.

    ¡°Sword Qi Pierces Heaven!¡±

    ¡°Red Lotus Swordy!¡±

    The man and woman¡¯s faces changed dramatically.

    Wang Tengfei was already severely injured and couldn¡¯t fight, so they had to step in. Otherwise, all three of them would soon be reduced to minced meat.

    Both of them were at thete stage of the seventh level. While not as strong as Wang Tengfei, they could still put up a fight.

    As they unleashed their cultivation, the man''s sword soared into the sky before descending with great force like a meteor.

    Meanwhile, red lotuses blossomed under the woman¡¯s sword. From the lotus pods, the seeds shot out in all directions like bullets, prating any and all obstacles with a popping sound.

    ¡°Run!¡± shouted the man, not all that eager to see the oue of their joint attack.

    They grabbed Wang Tengfei and used their cultivation to the max, turning into blurs as they sped off, leaving a long trail of smoke on the ground.

    ¡°Hmph, they are quite fast!¡±

    Chen Fan pushed his palm down, engulfing the two attacks. The trio had already run far away, so he decided not to pursue them with a cold harrumph.

    ¡°Are you alright, Senior Sister?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking at Qin Yao.

    She shook her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded, then removed the ring from Lin Ba''s finger.

    It was a storage ring, a tier above storage pouches. It contained the treasures Lin Ba had acquired at the auction.

    Next, he made a grabbing and pulling gesture, and Wang Tengfei¡¯s sword flew into his hand.

    This sword was a grade higher than his Killing Wind. The three fleeing disciples had disregarded this grade-two sword, allowing Chen Fan to benefit from it.

    ¡°Senior Sister, catch.¡± Chen Fan tossed this precious sword to Qin Yao.

    Qin Yao¡¯s choice of weapon was also a sword. However, her current weapon was only a grade-one sword. With this new sword, her strength would receive a significant boost.

    ¡°Come on up, Senior Sister. We have to get away quickly. Themotion earlier was too big. Some experts in the county city must have sensed it and are likely already on their way.¡±

    Chen Fan mounted the Golden Horned Horse. His powerful aura immediately subdued the horse, and he gestured for Qin Yao to join him.

    During the auction, many Qi Grandmaster powerhouses had coveted the Realm Breaking Pill, but Lin Ba had ultimately obtained it.

    If those people saw that Lin Ba was dead, they would undoubtedly try to seize the pill, so they had to escape promptly.

    Qin Yao hesitated, concerned about the physical contact that would ur if they both rode on the Golden Horned Horse.

    Chen Fan saw through her concerns and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s fine, Senior Sister. It¡¯s very spacious up here. We can ride with some space in between.¡±

    Realizing they couldn''t linger any longer, Qin Yao nodded and mounted the horse.

    Chen Fan squeezed his legs against the horse¡¯s belly, prompting the Golden Horned Horse to swiftly gallop toward the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The horse¡¯s back was indeed spacious, but the two still experienced some physical contact as it raced forward. They felt some ripples in their hearts, and memories of what happened in the Qingyang Mountain Range involuntarily resurfaced in their minds.

    Not long after the two left, several people with powerful auras descended as they had expected. Upon seeing the chaotic battlefield and Lin Ba''s corpse, the eyes of these Qi Grandmasters narrowed.

    ¡°Lin Ba was actually killed!¡±

    Someone immediately grabbed at the air with their hand and pulled Lin Ba¡¯s corpse to them. They searched carefully but failed to find anything of value.

    ¡°Someone killed Lin Ba and even stole the Realm Breaking Pill!¡± said that male Qi Grandmaster unhappily, an eerie light shing in his eyes.

    ......

    The Golden Horned Horse was speedy, covering ten thousand miles in just one day. An hourter, Chen Fan and Qin Yao returned to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The two met up with Qin Changkong and recounted the events. He felt a mix of anger and joy.

    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to you this time, Xiaofan. Without the Fire Spirit Chalcedony, Yaoyao would have only had a seventy to eighty percent chance of seeding when fusing with the Bone Spirit me. Now that we have it, the sess rate should be as high as ny percent,¡± Qin Changkong said.

    He had given Qin Yao 350 primeval stones, thinking it was enough. However, it turned out to be far from enough. Chen Fan had to spend over a thousand primeval stones to win the bid for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony, preventing it from falling into Lin Ba''s hands.

    Chen Fan smiled, ¡°You¡¯re too polite, Uncle Qin. It''s my duty to help. Oh, right, when is Senior Sister going to fuse with the Bone Spirit me, Uncle Qin?¡±

    Qin Changkong said, ¡°The required materials are all prepared. I¡¯m thinking of letting Yaoyao fuse with the Bone Spirit me immediately.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll stand guard outside and not let anyone disturb you,¡± Chen Fan said, nodding. A sharp aura blossomed from him.

    ¡°Mmm, I¡¯m counting on you, then.¡±

    Qin Changkong entered his loft, arrived at a secret room, and began to help Qin Yao fuse with the Bone Spirit me.

    ......

    Outside the loft:

    Chen Fan stood as a vignt guardian, his gaze sharp. Anyone who dared to intrude would face his fierce attacks.

    He sat cross-legged in front of the door and began cultivating, using up many primeval stones.

    Although he had yet to form the Heaven Seizing Furnace inside him, Chen Fan had already caught a glimpse of its ingenious use, allowing him to refine everything in heaven and earth.

    Asrge quantities of primeval stones burst open, waves of primeval qi surged forth, rushing into him. This refining speed was several times faster than before.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The abundant primeval qi entered Chen Fan and circted, condensing and strengthening his aura, which continued to rise steadily.

    Absorbing the energy in Wang Tengfei¡¯s mes of the great sun not only tempered Chen Fan¡¯s physique but his Myriad Elephants Divine Art also advanced to the fifthyer. Simultaneously, the primeval qi in his dantian underwent refinement, purging all impurities.

    Chen Fan had recently advanced to the middle stage of the sixth level and should have taken some time to stabilize his foundation before attempting another breakthrough. However, now that his primeval qi had been refined, he no longer needed to worry about this.

    Furthermore, he had a huge amount of primeval stones on him now and wasn¡¯t afraid of using them.

    Soon, a resounding boom echoed from within him. The primeval qi in his dantian rose dramatically, and he sessfully advanced to thete stage of the sixth level.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t stop there. He continued usingrge amounts of primeval qi, strengthening his aura.

    Two dayster, he advanced to the peak of the sixth level. He was now only a step away from breaking through to the seventh level.

    Chen Fan stood up, overjoyed, when he sensed the thick primeval qi and strength within him. He threw out a punch, causing a boom in the air.

    ¡°Heh heh, with my current strength, I can sweep through all martial artists below the Qi Grandmaster realm!¡±

    <i>Creak.</i>

    The sound of a door opening rang out from behind.

 Chapter 64 - Blown to Bits!

    <h4>Chapter 64 - Blown to Bits!</h4>

    <i>Creak.</i>

    Qin Changkong opened the door and exited the room.

    ¡°Uncle Qin, did she seed?¡± Chen Fan turned around and asked.

    Qin Yao emerged from behind Qin Changkong, and her aura underwent a subtle change, bing slightly colder.

    When he saw Qin Yao, Chen Fan realized that she had seeded in fusing with the Bone Spirit me.

    And she had also be an eighth-level cultivator.

    Considering the Bone Spirit me¡¯s mystical nature, she could be considered an expert even among those in the same cultivation realm.

    Qin Yao now possessed a cold and captivating beauty, exuding a chilling aura at all times.

    ¡°Haha, it¡¯s all thanks to you. Without the Fire Spirit Chalcedony, the Bone Spirit me could have devoured Yaoyao instead.¡±

    Qin Changkong was in a great mood due to the sessful fusion.

    Upon reflecting on his previous statement, Chen Fan realized that there had been a mishap during the fusion process; it would have failed if it weren''t for the Fire Spirit Chalcedony.

    ¡°All that matters is that Senior Sister seeded without ident,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Fusing with primeval me was perilous. If the fusion failed, one would suffer a significant loss of primeval qi, potentially leading to crippled cultivation at best, or beingpletely consumed by the primeval me, leaving no trace, at worst.

    ¡°Mmm, thanks to the sessful fusion, she is now at the eighth level of the Qigong realm and can be a real Alchemist. Her status in the Spring Autumn Sect will also rise ordingly,¡± Qin Changkong said.

    ¡°Congrattions, Senior Sister,¡± Chen Fan said to Qin Yao.

    Alchemists, capable of refining pills and elixirs, were esteemed individuals.

    One would have trouble finding an Alchemist even in a group of ten thousand martial artists. Only a select few lucky individuals could walk on that path.

    For instance, take the Realm Breaking Pill¡ªQi Grandmasters dream of this pill. If Qin Yao could sessfully refine Realm Breaking Pills, Qi Grandmasters would line up to fight for her.

    And just like that, several days and nights passed.

    Soon, the bell signaling the start of thest phase of the Outer Sect Grand Competition rang punctually.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes and slowly exhaled a mouthful of turbid air.

    His eyes shone brightly, and his primeval qi rose; he was in peak condition.

    He had spent thest night meditating to stabilize his peak sixth-level cultivation.

    Chen Fan arrived at the outer sect za full of vigor like a tiger.

    Many disciples made way for him, looking at him with awe.

    His name had spread throughout the entire outer sect.

    Everyone now knew he was powerful and ruthless. He would never show mercy to his enemies. He even dared to defy the Heaven''s Alliance by killing Fei Kuang, one of their key members.

    ¡°Look at that smug look on him. Hiscency is reaching the heavens.¡±

    ¡°Shhh, keep your voice down. It''s only natural for him to be arrogant after returning to life like a salted fish. But he won¡¯t be smug for long. After offending the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, a miserable fate awaits him.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true. The Heaven¡¯s Alliance has never suffered such a big loss. They would undoubtedly seek revenge on him twofold.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was buzzing with gossip.

    Chen Fan heard all of it clearly, but he didn''t let any of it affect him.

    These people were simply envious of him. After all, just three months ago, he was considered martial arts trash. However, he hadpletely turned things around and became a ferocious figure. Naturally, not everyone would be happy for him.

    Who would enjoy watching someone deemed ¡°trash¡± bing stronger than them?

    The third phase of the grandpetition was apetition between the final 100 contestants, which would decide the sect¡¯s top 10 disciples. Each fighting arena would have one ultimate victor in the end.

    Soon, the matches began.

    ¡°Tenth group, number 345 versus number 779!¡± announced the referee.

    Chen Fan stepped onto the fighting arena to see a man dressed in ck approaching. His cultivation was at the early stage of the eighth level, and his name was Yan Ba.

    ¡°Chen Fan, kneel and ept your death. I can give you a quick one. Otherwise, I¡¯ll make you wish you were dead instead!¡± Yan Ba said coldly, his eyes shing with a cold light as he saw Chen Fan ascend the arena.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrow. He looked at Yan Ba. He wasn¡¯t a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance, yet he harbored intense killing intent toward him. Why was that?

    ¡°You entered the Heaven¡¯s Alliance?¡±

    Yan Ba shook his head.

    ¡°Why would you want me to kneel and ept my death when we have no grudges against each other and you''re not a member of the Heaven''s Alliance?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    Yan Ba smiled coldly. ¡°Although I¡¯m not a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance, I can get a profound tier cultivation technique for killing you. Why would I miss out on such a great opportunity?"

    Chen Fan immediately came to a realization.

    Someone from the Heaven''s Alliance had bribed Yan Ba with a profound-tier cultivation technique. Indeed, few people could resist such a tempting offer.

    ¡°Alright, since that is the case, you can die!¡±

    Chen Fan immediately threw out a punch. He had no intention of showing mercy to someone interested in taking his life.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The force behind Chen Fan¡¯s punch erupted with a deafening roar. The air exploded, and a terrifying gale swept over, making Yan Ba squint.

    ¡°Still thinking of resisting? Well, in that case, don''t expect a quick death. I¡¯ll take my time torturing you!¡± Yan Ba sneered, emanating his aura.

    He struck out with his hand, curling his fingers to resemble an eagle''s w, trying to shatter Chen Fan''s punch. [1]

    However, Chen Fan was way stronger than before now, and this punch had ny percent of his strength. How could someone at the early stage of the eighth level possibly shatter it?

    The force of Chen Fan''s punch erupted, directly shattering Yan Ba''s ws. He let out a miserable scream, but it quickly came to a halt as Chen Fan''s devastating punch struck him.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The single devastating blow filled the sky with a torrent of blood, sttering in all directions.

    Next, Chen Fan turned around and simply walked off the arena.

    The surrounding area fell into an eerie silence. Every eye was wide open, fixed on the fighting arena.

    Yan Ba could be seen nowhere. Only a pile of minced meat remained.

    One punch.

    It took just one punch to obliterate Yan Ba, an eighth-level expert, into pieces.

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    The sound of people sucking in breaths of cold air soon rang out one after another.

    The crowd looked at Chen Fan¡¯s back, their eyes filled with horror.

    During the first phase of thepetition, Chen Fan had blown up Sun Youwei, a sixth-level cultivator, with a single punch. However, Yan Ba was at the eighth level but still met the same fate.

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°One punch. He took out Yan Ba with one punch. He turned an eighth-level expert into bits. That¡¯s too scary.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s only been a few days. He wasn¡¯t this horrifying three days ago, was he!?¡±

    ¡°Such a pity. Yan Ba paid with his life for a profound tier cultivation technique that would never be his. Chen Fan is a killing star. He would never go easy against his enemies.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    A wave of whispering voices spread out.

    The members of the Heaven''s Alliance wore extremely grim expressions.

    They had never anticipated such a tremendous growth in Chen Fan''s strength. His improvement was simply incredible. He seemingly transformed into a different person each day, effortlessly obliterating even an eighth-level practitioner.

    Furthermore, even though Yan Ba wasn¡¯t from the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, they had bought him out. His swift defeat with a single punch felt like a direct p to their faces.

    Chen Changfeng stared at Chen Fan as a strange light shed in his eyes. The corners of his lips raised as he muttered to himself, ¡°It¡¯s getting more interesting. The stronger the prey, the greater the sense of aplishment. We will meet soon, Chen Fan. Your nightmare is about to arrive.¡±

    Thoughts: When I saw the surname Yan, I thought he might be the brother of the archer who found Chen Fan and went to inform Liao Fan. Might have some spicy drama that way. Oh well.

    1. The attacks aren''t just physical, but also qi attacks. Shattering refers to breaking down the qi making up most of the attack power. ?

 Chapter 65 - Battling Chen Changfeng

    <h4>Chapter 65 - Battling Chen Changfeng</h4>

    Chen Fan, a sixth-level practitioner, had easily killed Yan Ba, an eighth-level expert, with a single punch. This impressive disy left the crowd astounded.

    However, it was nothing big for Chen Fan.

    After all, in thest three days, he had reached the peak of the sixth level and his Myriad Elephants Divine Art had advanced to the fifthyer, so he was way stronger now.

    Even experts at the peak of the eighth level couldn¡¯tpete with him, let alone someone in the early stage of the eighth level. Only Qi Grandmasters at the ninth level could suppress him.

    He wasn¡¯t even afraid of Qi Grandmasters now, as he now had the means to escape from them.

    Chen Fan went from martial arts waste to a formidable fighter, capable of holding his own against Qi Grandmasters, in just three to four months. The events he encountered were so extraordinary that they seemed like a figment of his imagination.

    This dramatic change in his fortunes was solely due to that lightning strike.

    He was born anew and obtained the supreme martial art, Heaven Seizing Art, which propelled him to great heights within a remarkably brief period.

    Despite the loss of a disciple at the eighth level, the Outer Sect Grand Competition pressed on undeterred.

    Soon, it was Chen Fan¡¯s turn to take the stage again, only to have his opponent concede defeat immediately.

    As the matches yed out, emotions ran high, with some reveling in joy while others sumbed to sorrow. The initial pool of ten contestants from each group gradually dwindled until only two remained.

    Finally, the time for the final battle to decide the top 10 disciples was upon them.

    Each participant had proven their mettle by triumphing in previous encounters. They were all the epitome of strength and prowess.

    In the tenth group, the final two contestants were undoubtedly Chen Fan and Chen Changfeng.

    ¡°Now, let the battle for the top 10 disciplesmence. Thest two contenders from each group shall step onto the stage. The victor shall earn a ce in the top 10 in this year¡¯s Outer Sect Grand Competition.¡±

    Grand Elder Su Yuntian¡¯s thunderous voice resounded in the area clearly. The sheer force of his words ignited a fervor within the crowd. Hundreds, if not thousands, of spectators encircled each fighting arena, their voices rising and falling in anticipation.

    Within the confines of the fighting arena, Chen Fan and Chen Changfeng stood on opposite ends.

    ¡°Heh, heh, Chen Fan, we finally meet. I must confess, my patience has worn thin. My prey... I will rip and tear you into pieces!¡± Chen Changfeng said coldly.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow, studying Chen Changfeng intently.

    Rumors had it that Chen Changfeng had been striving to break through to the eighth level, and it appeared he had seeded. However, Chen Fan couldn''t shake the feeling that there was more to Chen Changfeng than meets the eye.

    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything? Did I scare you? Haha!¡±

    Chen Changfengughed coldly. His gaze burned with a predatory light, instilling fear in the audience''s hearts; it could even make others lose their resolve for an impending battle.

    ¡°Chen Fan, my prey, brace yourself for your worst nightmare!¡±

    Chen Changfeng suddenly sprang into action. He transformed into a blur, appearing before Chen Fan with astonishing speed and absolute silence.

    <i>Rip!</i>

    The sound of air being torn apart rang out.

    A menacing bone w materialized before Chen Fan, pulsating with primal energy and emanating a ferocious aura.

    Its sheer power was capable of rending even steel into shreds.

    ¡°Hmph.¡±

    Chen Fan snorted coldly, confronting the savage bone, and retreated.

    ¡°Can you dodge it? Your left shoulder de... shatter!¡±

    The white bone w, swift as lightning, extended and tried to w at Chen Fan''s left shoulder.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan stopped retreating and used Myriad Elephants Divine Art. His tendons transformed into steel, and his bones became iron as he delivered a powerful punch.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The sh between the punch and the w reverberated with a deafening explosion.

    A wild gale surged outward, wreaking havoc in all directions, ravaging the area and producing a series of explosions.

    ¡°Netherworld Ghost w, break!¡± Chen Changfeng suddenly bellowed as the ghastly white bone ws transformed into an enormous ghostly w

    Above it, a vibrant turquoise-green will-o''-the-wisp burned fiercely, its mes scattering in every direction. It incinerated the surrounding air, creating a vacuum.

    They both felt like they were being pressed between two steel tes; soon, an explosion rang in the area.

    That w seemed to drag its victim into the underworld, condemning them to eternal oblivion.

    With a pop, theyer of primeval qi around Chen Fan broke. As the ghostly w swiped down, the air seemed to turn into a de, capable of cleaving his torso.

    ¡°Golden Light Palm!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone as he unleashed a palm strike. Beams of golden light shot forth, coalescing into a palm seal about the size of a water jar.

    Although the Netherworld Ghost w crushed the Golden Light Palm upon contact, Chen Fan took this chance to withdraw from that dreadful area. He solemnly looked at the coldly smiling Chen Changfeng.

    Chen Fan realized Chen Changfeng was terrifyingly strong through this exchange of moves. He was far more formidable than a mere early-stage, eighth-level practitioner.

    ¡°Keke, Chen Fan, you¡¯re not half bad. I¡¯ve decided: I won¡¯t kill you. I¡¯ll give you a chance to be my servant.¡±

    ¡°Kneel right now and serve me as your master, and I will spare your life. Otherwise, I will show you the true terror of my Netherworld White Bones Great Cultivation Technique!¡±

    Chen Changfeng proimed with a cold smile.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Netherworld White Bones Great Cultivation Technique! It¡¯s a powerful profound tier martial art from our Spring Autumn Sect. Only the elite inner sect disciples can practice it.¡±

    ¡°Chen Changfeng¡¯s grandfather holds a high position as an elder in the inner sect, granting him status and authority. Unsurprisingly, he has ess to that technique, and we don¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd broke out into discussions.

    While many in the outer sect practiced profound tier cultivation techniques, their techniques paled inparison to the Netherworld White Bones Great Cultivation Technique. The disparity in power was akin to the difference between heaven and earth.

    ¡°How about it? Have you thought it through? Quickly kneel. Otherwise, I¡¯ll let you feel the torment of ten thousand ghosts devouring your heart,¡± Chen Changfeng said, seemingly confident of his victory.

    ¡°Hmph! You resemble neither a human nor a ghost. Quit your nonsense!¡± Chen Fan shouted.

    ¡°Eh? Looks like I¡¯ll have to give you a taste of death before you submit to me. Fine, I¡¯ll grant you your wish!¡±

    Chen Changfeng smiled eerily. His tall and thin frame, coupled with his ghastly paleplexion, made him appear like a corpse rising from a coffin.

    A chilling wind blew, and Chen Fan immediately saw the silhouettes of demons and ghosts appearing from all directions.

    Each one possessed a hideous and malevolent appearance, resembling evil spirits fresh from the depths of Hell. They encircled Chen Fan, eager to consume him.

    ¡°In front of my Thunderp Sword, all evil spirits, demons, and ghosts must stay back or die!¡±

    Chen Fan remained unmoved. He unsheathed Killing Sword, and streaks of lightning illuminated the air with crackling and explosive sounds.

    <i>Poof poof poof!</i>

    All those evil spirits quickly dissipated under the Thunderp Sword¡¯s power.

    Lightning was the nemesis of all evil spirits and ghosts.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    However, just as the evil spirits vanished, a ghastly Netherworld Ghost w tore through the air, aiming for Chen Fan''s heart.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Myriad Elephants Unrivaled!¡±

    Chen Fan punched out with his left fist. His primeval qi transformed into the silhouettes of ancient wild elephants appearing behind him. They trampled through space with thunderous rumbles, surging forward. A terrifying strength gathered in Chen Fan, capable of obliterating everything in its path.

    A resounding bang echoed. The force of the ancient wild elephants erupted, making fissures spread across the ghastly Netherworld Ghost w, reducing it to pieces. Deep within, the sound of wailing ghosts seemed to resonate in agony.

 Chapter 66 - Refine

    <h4>Chapter 66 - Refine</h4>

    ¡°You''ve broken my Netherworld Ghost w. Impressive, you''re quite skilled. You will really make for a good servant.¡±

    Chen Changfeng stared at Chen Fan with a chilling gaze, somehow growing more fond of him.

    The three tigers of the outer sect were his servants. They worked and collected primeval stones for him, but Chen Fan had in one of those old tigers. He wanted to take Chen Fan in as a servant to make up for Zhao Hu¡¯s position.

    ¡°Infinite Thunderp!¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered talking with Chen Changfeng anymore and immediately unleashed a sword technique.

    From within the depths of his dantian, primeval qi rose and enveloped his sword, making Killing Wind emit an unprecedented radiance.

    ¡°Chen Fan, if you believed that our previous exchange showcased my full strength, you''re gravely mistaken. Did you truly think I am merely at the early stage of the eighth level? Allow me to enlighten you. I am not; I have reached the peak stage of the eighth level.¡±

    In the face of Chen Fan¡¯s sword technique, Chen Changfeng smiled coldly, showing no signs of panic. He leisurely revealed his true cultivation level to everyone¡ªthe peak stage of the eighth level.

    ¡°ording to rumors, I was trying to advance to the eighth level, but that was merely a smokescreen of my creation. I was actually trying to be a Qi Grandmaster, a ninth-level Qigong expert. Although I failed, I¡¯m almost there.¡±

    ¡°Did you think defeating that trash, Yan Ba, makes you my equal? Stop dreaming! That¡¯s nothing but fantasy. Now, I shall reveal the true extent of my terrifying strength and make you submit. I will have you kneel, kowtow, and address me as your master.¡±

    ¡°White Bone Gloves!¡±

    Suddenly, a pair of gloves appeared in his hands.

    The gloves exuded a somber white hue, emanating a malevolent aura as if crafted from bones. Intricate vein lines adorned their surface, with threads of blood coursing through them like capiry vessels.

    When Chen Changfeng donned the gloves, an eerie white light radiated from them. The sinister aura intensified exponentially, transforming Chen Changfeng into an embodiment of the underworld''s divine progeny.

    Suddenly, he whistled loudly, summoning palm seals that enveloped the surroundings with his hands.

    Each palm seal carried great momentum, producing rumbling noises. An onught of palm seals soon engulfed the fighting arena.

    ¡°White Bone Hand!¡±

    The scene surprised some elders in the observation gallery. ¡°Chen Changfeng has concealed his true strength remarkably well. His cultivation is actually at the peak stage of the eighth level. Moreover, White Bone Gloves are a grade-two treasure, greatly enhancing the power of his Netherworld White Bones Great Cultivation Technique, more than doubling its strength. He could even fight against Qi Grandmasters now.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. That kid named Chen Fan is in danger.¡±

    Qin Changkong was also looking in their direction, his heart tightening with concern.

    Chen Changfeng had concealed his true cultivation level from even these elders, employing a technique to mask his true power. Now that he had unleashed his true strength, it was nothing short of earth-shattering.

    Furthermore, those White Bone Gloves were a grade-two treasure with astonishing power, elevating his aura to a levelparable to that of Qi Grandmasters. Qin Changkong immediately grew anxious for Chen Fan''s safety.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I have never found the need to employ these White Bone Gloves against opponents who were not Qi Grandmasters. They were not worthy of witnessing their might. But you, you are the first!¡±

    ¡°But once I reveal them, blood must be shed. I¡¯ll use your blood to bless this pair of gloves. However, I won''t kill you. I still have ns to make you my servant!¡± Chen Changfeng said coldly.

    Feeling somewhat irritated, he couldn''t help but be vexed that someone as insignificant as Chen Fan had forced him to unveil his secret cultivation technique and treasure. It was a blow to his pride.

    Chen Changfeng''s figure darted through the air in a sh, conjuring whirlwinds akin to a majestic roc. His formidable cultivation manifested as the shadows of white bone demons.

    These white bone demons descended with force, apanied by a barrage of White Bone Hands, aiming to crush Chen Fan and unleash a bloodbath.

    <i>Kill!</i>

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s every move was aimed at Chen Fan.

    Countless White Bone Hands struck out from the void with his every strike, seemingly able to tten a mountain.

    The sudden eruption of such a devastating attack showcased absolute suppression.

    Under the palm''s pressure, Chen Fan resembled a sailboat in a tempest, on the verge of capsizing at any moment.

    ¡°How unexpected. Chen Changfeng concealed his true strength so well, reaching the peak of the eighth level. He is undoubtedly the top disciple after Senior Brother Zhong Li. After the Outer Sect Grand Competition, he will obtain many rewards and be a Qi Grandmaster, his strength reaching new heights. He will also obtain unimaginable benefits when he enters the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? But it¡¯s also quite impressive for Chen Fan to have forced Chen Changfeng to disy his full strength.¡±

    ¡°This Netherworld White Bones Great Cultivation Technique is too scary. It feels as though white bone ghosts are lurking everywhere, emerging from their graves with eerie bone ws capable of shattering our primeval qi with a single swipe.¡±

    ¡°As the grandson of the inner sect¡¯s Grand Elder, would his cultivation technique be ordinary? If it weren¡¯t for the rules, Chen Changfeng would likely be practicing an earth-tier cultivation technique.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd watched Chen Changfeng disy his great powers, overpowering Chen Fan. Conversations filled with envy and jealousy echoed among them.

    Being born into a prestigious family provided a strong support system and granted ess to abundant cultivation resources and powerful techniques, allowing one to stand out among billions of people. It was only natural for others to feel envious.

    Chen Changfeng was someone like that.

    Backed by his grandfather, the Grand Elder of the inner sect, he practiced a powerful cultivation technique and had huge amounts of cultivation resources at his disposal. He could easily suppress his peers and disy his exceptional strength, earning the envy and jealousy of others.

    Currently, Chen Fan was locked in a fierce struggle.

    Chen Changfeng wasparable to a Qi Grandmaster. Each palm strike carried an astonishing force, descending upon Chen Fan like lightning, shaking his qi and blood.

    Moreover, Chen Changfang¡¯s Netherworld White Bone primeval qi had a ghastly aura, infiltrating Chen Fan through his pores and affecting his psyche. The shadows of evil spirits appeared in his mind, distracting him.

    ¡°Haha, how is it, Chen Fan? Are you convinced? You can¡¯t be a match for my godly strength. Kneel and submit to me. Serve me as your master. As long as you perform well in the future, I might even grant you a profound tier cultivation technique.¡±

    Chen Changfengughed out loud, but the momentum of his attacks was as fierce as ever.

    ¡°Kneel, Chen Fan. My Netherworld White Bone primeval qi has infiltrated your mind and transformed into evil spirits, swaying your mentality and devouring your primeval qi. You can¡¯t withstand it!¡±

    Indeed, Chen Fan felt as if evil spirits were possessing him. He felt chills all over.

    A powerful demonic force coursed through Chen Fan''s meridians, exerting control over his primeval qi. A malevolent specter danced in his mind, swaying his thoughts and asserting dominance over his soul.

    ¡°Hmph, you think you can suppress me with that? How na?ve. Heaven Seizing Art!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly. In an instant, his primeval qi surged, channeling through the pathway of the Heaven Seizing Art, taking the form of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    The Netherworld White Bone primeval qi within Chen Fan was immediately drawn into the furnace, undergoing refinement and transforming into nourishment that strengthened him.

    Although Chen Fan had yet to condense the Heaven Seizing Furnace inside him, he had turned himself into a furnace. When activating the Heaven Seizing Art, he had assimted its essence. Refining this bit of Netherworld White Bone primeval qi was not a problem.

    Chen Fan eagerly anticipated the moment when he would sessfully condense the Heaven Seizing Furnace within him. Once achieved, he could reduce everything to ashes through its refining power.

    <i>Hehe, I¡¯ll refine your primeval qi and use it as the impetus to advance to the seventh level!</i>

    He even allowed Chen Changfeng''s Netherworld White Bone primeval qi to enter him freely. After all, the more primeval qi entered him, the greater the benefits he would gain after refining it.

 Chapter 67 - Seventh Level

    <h4>Chapter 67 - Seventh Level</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan acted like a furnace, his pores producing a mighty suction force that absorbed more and more Netherworld White Bone primeval qi.

    <i>Tss, tss, tss...</i>

    Sizzling filled the air as Chen Fan absorbed the Netherworld White Bone primeval qi, prickling his skin.

    It was as if a raging wildfire burned within him, transforming the opponent¡¯s evil primeval qi into primeval qi infused with traces of lightning power. This energy gathered Chen Fan¡¯s dantian, steadily increasing his cultivation level from the peak stage of the sixth level to the seventh level.

    <i>Rumble.</i>

    Meanwhile, in the fighting arena:

    Chen Changfang continued tough triumphantly. His primeval qi manifested as white bone ghosts, relentlessly suppressing Chen Fan. The sky was filled with these spectral figures, obscuring Chen Fan from view.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you brat, now I¡¯ll give you a taste of Myriad Ghosts Heart Devour!¡± Chen Changfeng taunted, sensing that Chen Fan was on the brink of copse.

    With a little more pressure, he believed he could break Chen Fan''s will and turn him into a loyal servant.

    Drawing upon his cultivation, Chen Changfeng summoned a colossal ghostly head that exuded a dark aura. Anyone who set eyes on it would feel their soul shuddering as if the ghostly head would devour it.

    <i>Woooo, woooo.</i>

    This ghostly head exhaled a mouthful of pitch-ck ghost qi, which turned into countless small ghost heads and devils. With bared teeth and ws, they swirled through the air, emitting eerie whistling sounds as they swarmed toward Chen Fan.

    The scene made the crowd''s hearts skip a beat.

    The Myriad Ghosts Heart Devour could unleash an overwhelming number of ghostly entities, potentially exceeding tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands.

    Qin Changkong''s anxiety peaked as the ghostly heads and devils permeated the arena. He feared that these malevolent spirits would truly devour Chen Fan''s heart.

    Unaware of his worries, Chen Fan crazily refined the Netherworld White Bone qi. With a resounding boom, the sky darkened like the heavens had ruptured. Countless little devils whistled toward him.

    ¡°Good, very good. To send me such help, Chen Changfeng sure is a kind fellow. Devour!¡± Chen Fan eximed, devoid of any fear, instead reveling in the sight.

    These little ghost heads were all little devils Chen Changfeng had obtained and refined from gods-knew-where. They were full of primeval qi.

    While these endless hordes of little devils would spell disaster for others, they served as a source of nourishment for Chen Fan.

    Wide-mouthed, Chen Fan sucked in the air, all his pores opening wide. In an instant, he absorbed nearly ten thousand little devils.

    Once inside Chen Fan, these tiny devils didn¡¯t get the time to disy their strength and were directly refined by him into pure primeval qi. With a rumble, Chen Fan felt himself inching closer to the seventh level.

    ¡°Great, great. I really have to thank Chen Changfeng. What a splendid fellow he is. Come, give me more of these little devils." Chen Fanughed maniacally within his heart.

    Unbeknownst to Chen Changfeng, the little devils served as a great tonic rather than torment for Chen Fan. He found the thought of Chen Changfeng''s potential frustration and vexation if he discovered this oue amusing.

    ¡°How is it? Chen Fan, do you submit? If you persist in your stubbornness, I will deliver the killing blow. By then, it will be toote for regrets, and you won''t have the chance to be my servant,¡± Chen Changfeng said coldly.

    ¡°Haha, thank you, Chen Changfeng. I really want to thank you. To show my appreciation, I won''t kill you. Prepare to witness my breakthrough!¡±

    A resoundingughter echoed through the air, apanied by violent tremors that shook the space.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A formidable aura emanated from an unseen location; Chen Changfeng finally realized that something was amiss.

    ¡°What?¡±

    He had used White Bone Hand to suppress Chen Fan and even executed Myriad Ghosts Heart Devour. Logically speaking, Chen Fan''s life should have been hanging by a thread, with him kneeling and begging for mercy, ready to be Chen Changfeng''s servant.

    However, Chen Fan soundedpletely fine; his voice was filled with brightness and excitement as he expressed gratitude. What was happening?

    ¡°Damn it, since you¡¯re being so stubborn, I have no choice but to kill you. Netherworld Ghost w, Ripping Heaven Splitting Earth!¡±

    Chen Changfeng realized that if he didn''t act now and eliminate Chen Fan, the situation would take a turn for the worse.

    He swiftly formed a seal with his hands, channeling primeval qi into his White Bone Gloves. Waves of eerie ghost qi surged, merging with the massive ghost head behind him. It let out a roar as a green ghostly fire burned in its eyes, and its face contorted in pain.

    It seemed like a devil was slowly breaking free from the depths of Hell, descending into the mortal realm.

    With a boom, this ghost head finally broke free from the void.

    It was no longer just a ghost head but aplete devil.

    However, everything below its head was nothing but ghastly bones. Its eerie ghost w, capable of tearing through heaven and earth, descended upon Chen Fan''s position.

    This was the true Netherworld Ghost w!

    <i>Kach! Kach! Kach!</i>

    The air exploded instantaneously, and even the White Bone Hand disintegrated under the force of the w. It transformed into Netherworld White Bone primeval qi, which the white-bone devil absorbed. The eerie white bones gleamed, making the devil look even more robust.

    ¡°Haha, it¡¯s toote. Break!¡± Chen Fan''s aura had finally peaked, shattering the shackles.

    His primeval qi surged and erupted like the Yangtze River, propelling him to break through to the seventh level.

    With a long howl, he leaped into the sky like a roc, charging forward. He obliterated the Netherworld Ghost w darting toward him with a single punch.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    In an instant, apart from its head, the white-bone devil''s skeletal body exploded into pieces.

    The shockwaves reverberated through the devil''s head, causing cracks to appear and eliciting a wail of agony.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Chen Changfeng was nonplussed.

    Chen Fan had destroyed most of Chen Changfeng¡¯s white-bone devil with a single punch. Even the devil¡¯s head had cracks now, which, in turn, also affected him.

    ¡°Haha, it¡¯s over, Chen Changfeng. Get the hell down!¡±

    Chen Fan leaped like a roc spreading its wings. He moved through the air with a whoosh and appeared before Chen Changfeng, delivering a powerful punch.

    This punch was the culmination of all the energy he had umted after reaching the seventh level.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A loud explosion reverberated as the punch shattered Chen Changfeng''s protectiveyer of primeval qi.

    The impact threw him back, his face full of shock as he flew out of the fighting arena. He fell under the stage, vomiting mouthfuls of blood.

    Chen Fan could have killed Chen Changfeng if he desired.

    However, Chen Changfeng''s backgroundplicated matters. His grandfather was the Grand Elder of the inner sect, wielding significant status and authority.

    If he killed Chen Changfeng, it would undoubtedly enrage this formidable figure. Although this was within the rules, those great characters often disregarded rules and regtions.

    Rules were designed to restrain the weak while the strong manipted them to their advantage.

    Chen Fan had already offended the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. So, antagonizing an influential figure like the inner sect''s Grand Elder would severely hinder his future actions within the Spring Autumn Sect.

 Chapter 68 - Senior Sister, Are You Worried About Me?

    <h4>Chapter 68 - Senior Sister, Are You Worried About Me?</h4>

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s defeat was unexpected; it left everyone surprised.

    After all, he was at the peak of the eighth level and practiced the Netherworld White Bones Great Cultivation Technique, making himparable to Qi Grandmasters. Among all the outer sect disciples, he was only inferior to Zhong Li.

    Moreover, White Bone Hands had immense might, capable of ttening eight-level practitioners easily. And the Netherworld Ghost w could even pose a slight threat to Qi Grandmasters.

    These skills had originally suppressed Chen Fan; astonishingly, he managed to advance his cultivation under such pressure, reaching the seventh level. This sudden surge in strength allowed him to ovee the suppression and defeat Chen Changfeng.

    The speed and shock of this victory left the crowd dazed.

    ¡°You... how is that possible?¡±

    Chen Changfeng, struggling not to vomit more blood below the stage, stared at Chen Fan in disbelief.

    He couldn''t fathom how he had lost so decisively when he had the advantage just moments ago.

    Chen Fan looked at him and said, ¡°Haha, I must thank you, Chen Changfeng. If not for your suppression, I wouldn¡¯t have advanced to the seventh level so soon. You¡¯re really a great, great guy!¡±

    Unspoken was the fact that Chen Fan had refined and absorbed Chen Changfeng''s Netherworld White Bone primeval qi¡ªit would be a simply dumbfounding revtion.

    ¡°Pffft!¡± A stifledughter escaped the lips of the onlookers.

    Chen Changfeng could no longer hold it in and spat out a mouthful of blood.

    <i>Nice guy?</i>

    <i>Me? A great guy?</i>

    These words made him die from vomiting blood.

    After all, his powerful suppression had helped Chen Fan break his shackles and advance. Everything was his own doing.

    ¡°This... I¡¯m about to die fromughter. Is this what they call seeking an edge only to wind up in a more unfavorable situation?¡±

    ¡°Let alone Chen Changfeng, even I want to vomit blood fromughter.¡±

    ¡°This guy, Chen Fan, it''s one thing if he won, but he''s also rubbing salt in Chen Changfeng''s wounds and praising himself as a great person. It''s so cruel.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Various voices erupted, with everyone stifling theirughter as they pitied Chen Changfeng.

    Chen Changfeng felt more agitated when he heard the crowd¡¯s ridicule. He spat out another big mouthful of fresh blood and red at Chen Fan. He roared indignantly, ¡°Damn it...¡±

    Shortly after, Chen Changfeng''s eyes rolled back, and he unexpectedly fainted.

    He fainted purely out of anger.

    ¡°Brother Zhong, this little bastard really is blessed with some dogshit luck.¡±

    A short distance away, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members had gathered.

    Zhong Li didn¡¯t have to participate in thest battle round, as his opponent had admitted defeat without a fight.

    After all, he was the only outer sect disciple with Qi Grandmaster cultivation. He was the undisputed number one. Who could possibly be a match for him?

    Not only that, in this year¡¯s Outer Sect Grand Competition, he never even lifted a finger. His opponents could only me their luck and willingly forfeit their matches.

    A cold light shed in Zhong Li¡¯s eyes as he said, ¡°That trash Chen Changfeng¡¯s cultivation is at the peak of the eighth level, and he practiced a powerful cultivation technique. Still, Chen Fan managed to turn the tables and defeat him. How pathetic.¡±

    ¡°But that¡¯s alright. Chen Fan became one of the top 10 disciples and earned the qualifications to enter the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. When the timees, I will personally execute him. Let''s see who will save him then!¡±

    ¡°Of course, we have no doubts about your strength, Brother Zhong. That little bastard running into you is like a rat running into a cat or a sheep running into a tiger. Death is the only oue awaiting him. However, letting him jump around a little longer feels unpleasant.¡±

    ¡°The more he jumps around happily, the uglier his death will be,¡± Zhong Li said coldly.

    His cold killing intent sent a chill down the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members¡¯ hearts. When they looked at Chen Fan, their eyes were smiling coldly.

    Soon, the ten fighting arenas¡¯ battles for the outer sect''s top 10 disciples all ended.

    This year¡¯s top 10 outer sect disciples were Zhong Li, He Junyang, Bing Ye, Yang Feng, Lu Yun, Wei Rufeng, Mu Chen, Shangguan Ba, Qin Yao, and Chen Fan. [1]

    What displeased the members of Heaven''s Alliance was that, this year, only four of them were part of the top 10, not upying half like usual. It betrayed the expectation they had at the start of thepetition.

    ¡°Congrattions on bing the top 10 disciples of the outer sect this year. Rest for the night and gather at the Outer Sect Main Hall tomorrow morning,¡± Su Yuntian told Chen Fan and the nine others.

    With that, the Outer Sect Grand Competition officially came to a close.

    ......

    The top 10 outer sect disciples gathered at the Outer Sect Main Hall in the early morning of the second day.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡± said someone with a voice filled with resentment.

    Chen Fan turned around and was surprised to see Chen Changfeng. ¡°Why are you here, Chen Changfeng? Didn¡¯t I eliminate you?¡±

    ¡°Hmph, hmph, why can¡¯t I be here? I¡¯m also one of the top 10 disciples!¡±

    Chen Changfeng said coldly as he walked up, ring fiercely at Chen Fan. ¡°Just you wait. Things aren¡¯t over between us!¡±

    Qin Yao approached Chen Fan and whispered, ¡°Chen Changfeng¡¯s grandfather made some arrangements. Given his extremely high cultivation level, it would be a pity not to allow him to enter the inner sect. So, they purposely added him in.¡±

    ¡°However, one of the original top 10 disciples, Shangguan Ba, had to withdraw. Of course, Chen Changfeng¡¯s grandfather gave him extremely great benefits in return. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have gotten the spot so easily.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded.

    Having a strong background was indeed useful. Despite being eliminated, Chen Changfeng could confidently stand by their side thanks to his connections.

    ¡°You have to be careful. This time, the Outer Sect Great Competition¡¯s top 100 disciples will all be heavily rewarded. Chen Changfeng is already at the peak of the eighth level. After receiving his rewards, he will likely step into the Qi Grandmaster realm, significantly increasing his strength. So, he will make a move against you when we enter the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land,¡± Qin Yao reminded Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan rubbed his nose, turned his head, and smiled at Qin Yao. ¡°Senior Sister, are you worried about me?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m worried you might end up in hell.¡±

    Qin Yao shot back coldly, then walked ahead with light steps.

    A smile formed on the corners of Chen Fan''s lips.

    Perhaps his position in Qin Yao¡¯s heart had changed.

    He wasn¡¯t worried about Chen Changfeng making a move in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, as he knew that Chen Changfeng would not be the only one getting stronger with time.

    Furthermore, his main target wasn¡¯t Chen Changfeng but Zhong Li.

    Chen Changfeng and Zhong Li were onpletely different levels.

    Zhong Li was the true enemy, a very dangerous one.

    ¡°Excellent, Chen Fan. I didn''t expect you to truly have no fear of death and be one of the top 10 disciples. Very good. But I wonder if you''ll be so lucky in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.¡± Zhong Li¡¯s group of four also came over, wearing cold smiles.

    ¡°Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, huh? Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t disappoint you. As for you, you better keep a close eye on yourpanions. Otherwise, you won''t even know before you are all alone.¡± Chen Fan swept his gaze across He Junyang and the other two Heaven¡¯s Alliance members.

    Zhong Li wanted to kill him, and the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members also wanted to kill him. So, why would Chen Fan spare any of them?

    As expected, He Junyang and the others¡¯ expressions changed when they heard Chen Fan¡¯s tant threat.

    ¡°Hmph, you won¡¯t get the chance. The day we enter the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is the day you will die. I¡¯ll see how Qin Changkong can save you!¡±

    A cold light shed in Zhong Li¡¯s eyes.

    Chen Fan had threatened the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members right before Zhong Li, utterly disregarding him.

    ¡°Hehe, that might not be true.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and strode forth, walking ahead.

    ¡°Damn it, this wretched little bastard, he dares threaten us!¡±

    The Jade-Faced yboy, He Junyang, said hatefully, staring at Chen Fan¡¯s back. He wanted to immediately make a move and sneak attack Chen Fan, killing him.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he can¡¯t act like this for long.¡±

    The killing intent in Zhong Li¡¯s eyes seemed palpable,plementing his cold tone.

    1. Most of these people were mentioned before in Ch 37. Only Shangguan Ba is first mentioned here. ?

 Chapter 69 - Undefeated Kingâ€™s Fist

    <h4>Chapter 69 - Undefeated King¡¯s Fist</h4>

    The grand doors of the Main Hall soon opened, and the crowd filled in.

    The spacious hall was filled with several imposing figures, each exuding a powerful aura. Among them stood the Grand Elder, Su Yuntian.

    Chen Fan felt a chill in his heart as he sensed the overwhelming aura of these individuals, all of whom were in the Yuanfu realm.

    The man at the center of the group was particrly striking. His aura was as majestic as the sea, and he stood there shining like the sun.

    ¡°The ten of you are the best of the best. You are the greatest hopes of our sect, our strongest up-anding forces,¡± dered the man.

    His gaze swept past Chen Fan and the other top 10 disciples, seemingly looking through them, and none of them could hide anything from his gaze.

    This man was none other than Outer Sect Master Zhuo Bufan.

    ¡°Aside from obtaining great rewards from the sect, the top 10 are also allowed entry into the blessednd for training,¡± he announced in a deep voice. ¡°As you all know, there are four great sects in Qingyang County¡¯s territory. Every one of them is situated near the Qingyang Mountain Range. They are the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Burning Incense Valley, Mountain River Sect, and our Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°This time, the top 10 disciples from all four sects will get a month to train in the blessednd. The ten of you will represent our Spring Autumn Sect and enter the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.¡±

    ¡°This trip of yours will decide the rights to some of the primeval mines, spirit herb fields, and fine iron mines in Qingyang Mountain Range. So, keep in mind that the n will prosper if you prosper. And if you fail... our n will fall.¡±

    Chen Fan and the others¡¯ pupils suddenly shrunk.

    Unexpectedly, their training in the blessednd would directly impact the allocation of cultivation resources among the four great sects for the next three years.

    The weight of responsibility settled heavily upon their shoulders.

    ¡°Alright, I won''t dwell on other matters for fear of adding undue pressure. Inside the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, you must try your best and stand united topete for our Spring Autumn Sect.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan¡¯s gaze suddenly turned serious as he fixed his gaze upon the ten disciples. ¡°Once inside, you are prohibited from harming your fellow disciples and refusing cooperation with one another. If I discover any transgressions, do not expect leniency. Do you understand?¡±

    ¡°Understood!¡± Chen Fan and the others responded.

    ¡°Very good.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan nodded and said, ¡°Alright, the battle of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land will begin in a month. Return and cultivate diligently. Do not disappoint the sect''s hopes and expectations for you.¡±

    ......

    Chen Fan went to the Resources Hall to im his rewards from the Outer Sect Grand Competition, which were quite substantial.

    <i>Looks like the sect is really investing a lot into this battle at the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.</i> Chen Fan thought as he surveyed the generous rewards.

    The battle¡¯s oue would impact the cultivation resource distribution for the four great sects for the next three years. Naturally, the sect would spare no effort in helping the disciples about to enter the blessednd.

    Only with higher cultivation and strength could they fight for a better result for the sect in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    This meager amount of cultivation resources he received paled inparison to the amount of cultivation resources the sect could obtain in the next three years. It wasn¡¯t even worth mentioning.

    ¡°Although Zhuo Bufan said it is forbidden for fellow disciples to harm one another in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, I doubt influential disciples like Zhong Li would take this rule to heart. Moreover, the sect wouldn''t risk offending Duan Jingtian over a dead man.

    ¡°So, I must reach the eighth level within the next month. It would be ideal if I could advance to the ninth level and be a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°After I reach the Qi Grandmaster realm, the Heaven Seizing Furnace''s embryo will take shape inside me, significantly enhancing my refining abilities. I might be able to defeat even Yuanfu realm martial artists then.¡±

    Chen Fan felt a very strong sense of urgency.

    Zhong Li was already a Qi Grandmaster and would only grow stronger after acquiring substantial cultivation resources. He might even break through to the Yuanfu realm.

    ¡°Strength... Ah, strength...¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and returned to his residence.

    He spent three days stabilizing his seventh-level cultivation before delving into the practice of a quasi-profound tier martial skill, the Undefeated King''s Fist.

    One of the rewards for being a top 10 disciple was a martial skill; he had chosen this one.

    ¡°ording to rumors, the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist was a profound tier martial art before three of its nine moves were lost. Thest three moves are nowhere to be found. I wonder if the inner sect¡¯s Martial Art Pavilion will have theplete version of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist?¡±

    Chen Fan pondered aloud as he perused the martial arts manual.

    The Undefeated King¡¯s Fist was extremely powerful, its defining feature being unstoppable momentum. Its techniques were fierce and domineering. At major mastery, three heads and six arms would materialize behind the practitioner, making them look like a deity.

    Chen Fan memorized the six moves of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist in two hours, along with its primeval qi cirction pathway and activation method.

    The six moves were All Winning, All Conquering, All Destroying, All Defiant, Eternal Victory, and Return as One.

    Chen Fan moved fluidly across the floor, practicing each move with precision.

    The wind whistled and roared, sometimes even exploding with a bang.

    Ten days passed just like this.

    Within an uninhabited valley:

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan bellowed, the air swirling around him as the shadows of his fists piled up like a mountain.

    Each of his strikes tore through the air, leaving the ground beneath him rent as if cleaved by a great axe.

    The quasi-profound tier martial art was incredible.

    After spending ten days practicing it, Chen Fan had be exceedingly familiar with the six moves of the Undefeated King''s Fist, honing them to near perfection. While he couldn¡¯t conjure three heads and six arms yet, he could already manifest one head and two arms.

    <i>Bang bang bang!</i>

    His punch produced another explosion in the air.

    Chen Fan currently seemed like a monstrous figure with two heads and four arms.

    His four arms struck out continuously, each blow as fierce as thest, crashing into the surface of the expansiveke ahead like meteors, causing an explosion.

    Theke''s calm surface juddered, sending tons of water into the air and causing a downpour in the area.

    While Chen Fan''s execution of the Undefeated King''s Fist couldn''t overturn the seas and rivers, it was certainly potent enough to demolish a small hill.

    As he kept practicing, Chen Fan found himself drenched in sweat.

    The Undefeated King¡¯s Fist had immense power but consumed a terrifying amount of primeval qi.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan had arge dantian, and his reserve of primeval qi was thick and deep enough to support his practice. Another martial artist in his ce would have beenpletely drained of primeval qi by now.

    This was also why the sect had only rewarded them with quasi-profound tier martial arts instead of profound tier ones.

    Even Qi Grandmasters would have difficulty executing profound tier martial arts.

    If one¡¯s reserve of primeval qi weren¡¯t rich enough, they would bepletely drained after executing just one move. They would be dead if their opponents survived that attack.

    Although quasi-profound tier martial arts also consumed arge amount of primeval qi, it was insignificantpared to genuine profound tier martial arts. Quasi-profound tier martial arts allowed martial artists below the Yuanfu realm to disy the highestbat powers.

 Chapter 70 - Battling Sun Wenshan Once More

    <h4>Chapter 70 - Battling Sun Wenshan Once More</h4>

    Chen Fan still had twenty days left, so he decided to spend the time training in the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    His strength had greatly improved with his cultivation at the seventh level and having mastered the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. Who could possibly challenge him, aside from Qi Grandmasters?

    Moreover, Xiaobai was still in his cocoon state, recovering slowly and needingrge amounts of demon beast blood to speed up the process.

    ......

    <i>I wonder if that old fart Sun Wenshan would try to stop and kill me again.</i>

    Chen Fan thought as he walked along a mountain path, looking like a good-for-nothing young master with a stalk of green foxtail in his mouth.

    Twenty days ago, he had tried to secretly sneak out of the sect, sure no one knew about it. Unexpectedly, Sun Wenshan had intercepted him by waiting for him on the way out.

    If not for Xiaobai, Chen Fan would have sumbed to Sun Wenshan''s treacherous tactics.

    Although he managed to escape the cmity, Xiaobai was severely injured and entered a cocoon-like state.

    To his dismay, his worst fears materialized when a figure appeared before him.

    ¡°Ptooi!¡±

    Chen Fan spat out the green foxtail and fixed a steely gaze on the figure.

    Everything was the same: the location, the stone, and even the clothes Sun Wenshan wore.

    ¡°Old dog Sun, you just don¡¯t know when to give up, huh?¡± Chen Fan said, his gaze icy as he locked eyes with Sun Wenshan.

    ¡°Little bastard, let¡¯s see who will save you today!¡± Sun Wenshan returned the cold stare, his words dripping with bitterness.

    ¡°Hehe, old dog Sun, aren''t you afraid of the tables turning on you?¡± Chen Fanughed coldly.

    Although his trump card, Xiaobai, wasn¡¯t with him, he wasn¡¯t worried. After all, his strength had increased significantly since theirst meeting. He still couldn¡¯t defeat Sun Wenshan, but escaping wouldn''t be an issue.

    ¡°Hmph, you only caught me by surprise thest time. I won''t make the same mistake twice. Do you think you can surprise me again? How na?ve.¡± Sun Wenshan sneered, his smile cold.

    He had learned from his previous encounter. Xiaobai, the seemingly harmless monkey, had transformed into a Violent Ape, catching him off guard and injuring him.

    This time, Sun Wenshan hade prepared. Xiaobai was just a seventh-level demon beast; how could it possibly contend with a Qi Grandmaster like him?

    ¡°Who knows? Nothing is certain,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    His confidence made Sun Wenshan suspicious. Had the Violent Ape leveled up?

    Still, he wasn¡¯t afraid.

    ¡°Little bastard, stop bluffing. There''s no way you''ll survive today. Only death awaits you. I won''t waste any more words on you. Embrace your fate!¡±

    Sun Wenshan lunged forward, the wind howling around him like a hawk diving for its prey.

    His hand was like a silver hook, wing violently and emitting a sharp, piercing noise.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan instantly retreated backward.

    With a bang, Sun Wenshan¡¯s iron w struck where Chen Fan stood moments ago, sending soil flying.

    <i>Ch!</i>

    With a thunderp, Killing Wind materialized in Chen Fan''s hand.

    Chen Fan swung his arm, sending a streak of thunder qi darting toward Sun Wenshan.

    ¡°Petty tricks. Do you think you can fight this elder just because your strength has grown? You don¡¯t know the difference between heaven and earth!¡±

    Sun Wenshan scoffed, easily shattering the thunderp qi with his w.

    At the tip of his fingers, primeval qi surged, forming five exceptionally hard and sharp spears, each capable of easily piercing and shattering rocks. Like five silver spears, they shot out, targeting Chen Fan''s vital points.

    ¡°Fine, old dog, I¡¯ll show you what is the difference between heaven and earth today. Do you think the Qi Grandmaster realm is so impressive?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s blood boiled, and his battle spirit surged as Killing Wind instantly struck out at five spots.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Five explosions reverberated as Chen Fan was forced back, his blood and qi churning.

    Qi Grandmasters were strong; after twenty days, he had grown strong enough to retaliate without feeling helpless. ¡°Arrogant little bastard, I¡¯ll have you know what the prestige of Qi Grandmasters means!¡± Sun Wenshan shouted furiously and grabbed at the air.

    Under the control of Sun Wenshan''s qi, the water beneath a waterfall nearby coalesced into a massive dragon. This dragon flew for three thousand paces and attacked Chen Fan. Its gaping maw seemed to possess a life of its own, capable of suctioning, swallowing, and biting like a living creature.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    Chen Fan evaded the dragon''s assault, leaping away just in time to avoid being struck.

    The dragon''s jaws mped down on a nearbyrge tree, effortlessly cleaving through it as if it were made of soft tofu.

    The destructive force was such that even someone with the sturdiest of tendons and bones would have been crushed if caught in its grip.

    ¡°With a single attack, he gathered water from the pool and made it fly over three thousand paces in the air. Amazing!¡± Chen Fan eximed in shock.

    The Hundred Steps Divine Fist allowed one to project their qi to attack a target a hundred paces away, capable of breaking wood and cracking stones. However, the primeval qi would significantly weaken beyond that distance.

    Given Chen Fan¡¯s current cultivation level and the thickness of his primeval qi, he could strike someone a thousand paces away, nearly surpassing the range of bows and arrows. Only someone at the peak of the eighth level could achieve this feat. However, a distance of three thousand paces was simply out of the question even for him.

    As for Sun Wenshan, he had gathered water and turned it into a water dragon to attack him. The distance was undoubtedly more than three thousand paces; it showcased his remarkable prowess.

    ¡°Looks like I¡¯ve underestimated Qi Grandmaster experts a little.¡±

    After all, Qi Grandmasters were, as the name suggested, the grandmasters of the Qigong realm.

    What did it mean to be a grandmaster?

    It meant that they could establish a sect of their own, bing sect masters!

    Sun Wenshan''s strength was such that he could easily establish a small sect and even serve as the patriarch of a n in Xuanyang City, a grade-two city.

    ¡°Hmm? You are quite agile!¡±

    Despite being surprised by Chen Fan¡¯s speed, he revealed a sinister and cruel smile.

    Rolling both hands, he gathered water from the pool once more. This time, several water dragons rushed toward Chen Fan, attacking him from all directions to leave him without escape.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted fiercely.

    He could not dodge this time and could only receive the attack head-on.

    His primeval qi circted ferociously, and his aura erupted.

    A head and a pair of arms materialized behind him. With rumbling noises, he unleashed the six moves of Undefeated King¡¯s Fist with unparalleled ferocity.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Explosions echoed continuously as the water dragons were blown up one after another, reduced to a torrential downpour sshing down.

    Since Sun Wenshan had to divide his strength between the dragons, they were only as strong as an all-out attack from an eighth-level martial artist, unable to threaten Chen Fan.

    ¡°Oh boy, you¡¯ve actually achieved minor mastery in the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist in just ten short days!¡± Sun Wenshan eximed, taken aback by Chen Fan¡¯s remarkable progress.

    As an outer sect elder, he knew what martial skill Chen Fan had chosen and how challenging it was to master it.

    For anyone else, barely grasping the six moves of Undefeated King¡¯s Fist in such a short time would be considered quite an achievement.

    However, Chen Fan could already manifest a head and two arms¡ªthe sign of minor mastery. His talent was shocking.

 Chapter 71 - Escaping Easily

    <h4>Chapter 71 - Escaping Easily</h4>

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Sun Wenshan''s eyes zed with murderous intent. He sprang up with astonishing agility, a fierce current of energy crackling in his palm as he struck downward.

    After dealing with the water dragons, Chen Fan found the surrounding air congealing into a violent vortex, ensnaring him like a ship in a tempest, unable to break free.

    A deadly cmity loomed over him.

    Yet, in the face of this overwhelming pressure, Chen Fan''s battle spirit burned even brighter, devoid of any trace of fear.

    His tendons, bones, and muscles puffed up. The Myriad Elephants Divine Art surged to its peak, ancient elephant silhouettes materializing behind Chen Fan, shattering the restraints trapping him.

    <i>Shwing!</i>

    Killing Wind flew toward Sun Wenshan''s throat.

    Sun Wenshan was slightly surprised as Chen Fan had unexpectedly broken free of his aura suppression.

    Sensing the Killing Wind¡¯s chilling aura, Sun Wenshan felt a sharp pain around his throat.

    <i>ng!</i>

    His hand shed with Killing Wind like an iron w, producing sparks.

    The kickback pushed Chen Fan back, forcing him to take several steps back. A searing pain also shot through his right hand, which gripped the Killing Wind. The webbing between his fingers was torn.

    The terrifying force infiltrated Chen Fan, rushing into his dantian, crackling chaotically, threatening to wreak havoc within him.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, suppress all of it!¡±

    Chen Fan roared furiously in his heart, using the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to suppress the rampant force.

    Simultaneously, he activated Heaven Seizing Art to devour and refine it into energy that neutralized the damage to his meridians.

    ¡°Thunderp Sword, Infinite Thunderp!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned vicious as he lunged forward.

    Killing Wind drew an arc in the air. With a loud crackle, a lightning bolt tore through the sky and descended.

    ¡°How dare you! Audacious!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan taking the initiative to attack him, Sun Wenshan felt his prestige was being challenged. He bellowed furiously, causing the air ahead to explode.

    ¡°Little bastard, that Violent Ape still hasn¡¯t appeared. Looks like I have nothing to fear. This time, I will ensure your demise!¡±

    Sun Wenshan trembled, and the air swirled around him. Immediately, an ocean appeared behind him¡ªAn ocean of primeval qi.

    Waves rolled within it, the faint chirping of swallows rang, and one could even hear whales breaching the surface and spouting water.

    If one closed their eyes at this moment, they would feel as if they had been transported to the seaside, even catching a whiff of the salty sea air.

    To evoke such a vivid image, his primeval qi had to be pure yet vtile.

    Sun Wenshan was no longer holding back; he was determined to kill Chen Fan.

    He had been afraid of Xiaobai; since the ape hadn¡¯t shown up so far, Sun Wenshan thought that he no longer had to worry about that foe.

    Xiaobai¡¯s absence presented a golden opportunity for him to eliminate Chen Fan.

    ¡°Little rascal, you are merely at the seventh level, yet you have forced me to employ the Angry Whale Cultivation Technique. It¡¯s a profound tier technique! It¡¯s your honor to perish under this technique and be buried at sea.¡±

    Sun Wenshan bellowed. In the oceanic illusion, the whale roared, transforming the waterfall nearby into a rushing pir darting toward them.

    Large Whale Draws Water!

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The whale spewed forth a water column the size of a water jar toward Chen Fan.

    This water column was not ordinary¡ªit had the hardness of steel.

    Compressed to its limit, harder than steel, this water column could effortlessly shatter a mountain.

    A water spear as unyielding as steel!

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, invincible defense!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, undefeated even against heaven!¡±

    Chen Fan naturally felt that terrifying force behind that attack, sending shivers down his spine.

    Even though his Myriad Elephants Divine Art was at the fifthyer, he wondered if he still would be pulverized.

    Limitless primeval qi surged from Chen Fan. With two heads and four arms, he seemed like a celestial being as he unleashed the six fierce and domineering strikes of his fist technique, rending the air and everything in its path.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Violent explosions rang out.

    Chen Fan felt as if he was punching a mountain of steel; the terrifying recoil seemed to want to tear his arms open.

    His primeval qi arms disintegrated and reformed, repeating this cycle continually.

    ¡°Pfft, pfft...¡±

    Chen Fan was forced back repeatedly by the formidable recoil.

    Despite the Myriad Elephants Divine Art''s efforts to suppress it, the force shook his organs, causing his qi and blood to churn. Unable to endure it, he spat out fresh blood.

    ¡°Strength of Myriad Elephants, Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, break it!¡±

    Chen Fan bellowed, shaking the heavens.

    He pushed both martial arts to their limits, his four arms thundering as he unleashed a flurry of strikes, each carrying enough force to destroy a mountain.

    With a bang, Chen Fan cleaved the steel-like water column, reducing it to a deluge.

    ¡°Haha, old dog, I¡¯ve had a taste of your strength today. It wasn¡¯t much. Wait till I advance another small realm in my cultivation. That will be the day of your death. But for now, bye!¡±

    Chen Fanughed out loud and turned around. With a few jumps, he disappeared into the mountain.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Sun Wenshan quickly gave chase. However, the mountainous area was uneven and had aplicated terrain. After chasing for a while, he lost sight of Chen Fan¡¯s trail, leaving him roaring furiously. His primeval qi shot out in all directions, mming into the surrounding trees and stones, causing rumblings and explosions.

    ¡°Damn it, damn it!¡±

    Sun Wenshan cursed repeatedly as a hint of fear crept into his eyes.

    During theirst encounter, he could have killed Chen Fan if Xiaobai hadn¡¯t interfered.

    During theirtest encounter, Chen Fan had run away without help from Xiaobai, relying solely on his strength. Although he was injured, he escaped easily.

    How much time has passed between the two fights?

    Twenty days! A little less, even!

    For the first time, Sun Wenshan felt fear toward Chen Fan.

    He had failed to kill Chen Fan this time and feared that it would be impossible to do so after Chen Fan advanced to the eighth level.

    And if Chen Fan became a Qi Grandmaster, Sun Wenshan would have to worry about his own life.

    ¡°You wretched little bastard, I want you to die! You must die! If the Qi Grandmaster realm isn¡¯t enough, then the Yuanfu realm it is. I must kill you!¡±

    Sun Wenshan roared furiously in his heart. Seemingly having decided something, he soared into the sky and swiftly disappeared.

    ......

    ¡°Hehe, old dog Sun, you failed to kill me this time. Next time, it¡¯ll be my turn to kill you,¡± muttered Chen Fan as a cold glint shone in his eyes.

    In the middle of the dense forest in the mountain, Chen Fan fished out a Recovery Pill and swallowed it. Immediately, his face flushed red, and he spat out a mouthful of clotted blood.

    Although Chen Fan was outmatched in this fight, Sun Wenshan also failed to kill him.

    Chen Fan was already strong enough to survive a fight with a Qi Grandmaster.

 Chapter 72 - Taunted by a Demon Wolf

    <h4>Chapter 72 - Taunted by a Demon Wolf</h4>

    The river water rolled out from a massive mountain range, surrounded by treacherous peaks and shrouded in darkness by a spread of tall trees.

    The asional roars of beasts reverberated in the forest, striking fear into many hearts.

    <i>Whirr.</i>

    Suddenly, a gust of cold wind swept out from the mountain range, sending chills down the spines of those caught in its path and giving them goosebumps.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    The roar of an enormous tiger, about twenty-five to twenty-six feet long, reverberated through the forest as it engaged in a fierce battle with a teenager¡ªChen Fan.

    The tiger was stronger than a peak seventh-level martial artist, just a step away from the eighth level. Still, Chen Fan fought it with his bare hands, ripping its fur and tearing its flesh, making the ground slick with the tiger¡¯s blood.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist! Die!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly leaped up, diving in front of the tiger.

    A terrifying and ferocious force struck the tiger, sending it flying like a rubber ball. Finally, it crashed into a number of tall, ancient trees before stopping.

    The huge tiger let out a whimper and breathed its final breath¡ªChen Fan¡¯s attack had made its organs explode.

    After harvesting the valuable parts of the huge tiger¡¯s corpse, Chen Fan dug a pit and filled it with his prey¡¯s blood as usual. He took out Xiaobai¡¯s cocoon and dropped it into the blood pool to aid the ape¡¯s recovery.

    Chen Fan sat in the lotus position and used his cultivation technique to refill his exhausted energy reserves.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan dashed into the dense forest, his cultivation technique in full swing. Primeval qi flowed along the surface of his skin, emitting a faint luster. His silhouette shed a few times in the forest as he covered a great distance.

    He was determined to elevate his cultivation to the eighth level as quickly as possible because that would increase hisbat strength by more than tenfold. With such power, he wouldn¡¯t fear facing Qi Grandmasters; they wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against him.

    The fastest way to increase one¡¯s cultivation level was through intensebat¡ªbattling demon beasts and other foes.

    He would gradually grow stronger by incessantly depleting and recovering his primeval qi.

    He could also be stronger by absorbing primeval qi from primeval stones. However, primeval qi gathered like that was usually less powerful.

    Fighting and killing constantly, exhausting his primeval qi crazily, recovering, and condensing the recovered primeval qi was the best method to grow stronger.

    In the dense forest, the towering trees reached hundreds of feet into the sky, their lush branches and leaves blocking out the light.

    The ground was covered in dead leaves and branches, exuding a rotten and dangerous aura. Vaguely visible were poisonous insects and snakes coiled within the grass.

    These low-level demon beasts failed to pique Chen Fan''s interest. He saw no point in killing them, as they weren¡¯t worth much. So, fighting them would be a waste of time.

    After passing over a thousand trees in one go, Chen Fan stopped to catch his breath on a huge tree. Suddenly, a gust carrying a fishy stench blew from behind him.

    Quickly turning around, he saw a massive python, thicker than his waist, its mouth wide open and lunging at him. The stench from its maw was overwhelming, and its teeth shed with a bluish light, obviously poisonous.

    ¡°Oh, man.¡±

    Chen Fan swiftly leaped onto another huge tree, evading the python''s bite.

    <i>What a vicious python!</i>

    The python had coiled around an ancient tree andunched a sneak attack to devour Chen Fan when his guard was down. Had he not been vignt, he might have lost his life inside the python''s mouth.

    The python¡¯s scales were light ashen with a delicate luster, seemingly impervious to des and spears.

    Its triangr eyes were staring at Chen Fan, shining with cunning and intelligence. Since Chen Fan had dodged its attack, the huge python opened its mouth wide, an air vortex revolving within.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    The vortex condensed into a poisonous gas bomb about the size of a baby¡¯s head. It flew out like an arrow, creating ripples in the air and producing a buzzing noise.

    ¡°Wretched beast!¡±

    Chen Fan curled his fingers and conjured an evenrger air ball, shattering the bomb.

    The python was surprised.

    It had attacked because the prey seemed to be a seventh-level practitioner. However, seeing the prey effortlessly dispel the poisonous gas bomb made it feel a hint of danger.

    The huge python sprang into action, slithering down the tree to escape.

    However, when it arrived at the tree base, a lightning bolt tore through the space. Chen Fan¡¯s sword, Killing Wind, impaled the python firmly to the tree trunk, killing it instantly.

    Normally, merely being impaled wouldn¡¯t have killed such a strong python, as it had a robust life force. However, Killing Wind carried the ferocious and overbearing powers of lightning that disintegrated the python¡¯s very soul.

    Chen Fan jumped down the tree and executed his normal routine.

    This python wasn¡¯t a low-level demon beast; it was close to advancing to the eighth level. Perhaps it recognized Chen Fan¡¯s low cultivation and wanted to devour him to advance its level. s, it ended up getting in easily by Chen Fan.

    ......

    In the blink of an eye, ten days passed.

    Chen Fan spent the time delving deeper into the Qingyang Mountain Range and fighting numerous demon beasts.

    He had fought Blood Feral Boars¡ªthat moved in a herd¡ªSwift Tiger, Blood Sucking Bat, Giant Wasp, Demon Hunting Spider, Man Eating Ant, and more. Among them were some tier-one, eighth-level demon beasts, all of which Chen Fan managed to y.

    ¡°Hmm, such a bloody stench.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s nose twitched, picking up a faint scent of blood in the air as he moved between trees.

    He leaped down from a massive tree and hurried to an open area in the forest.

    He soon found over a dozenrge wolves, each covered in glossy silver fur, feasting on human corpses. These corpses, wearing the uniforms of the Spring Autumn Sect disciples, appeared to be outer sect members who hade to the Qingyang Mountain Range for training but had fallen victim to the powerful Silverback Demon Wolves.

    Silverback Demon Wolves were even stronger than the python from before. They were a notorious species of demon beasts, organized and disciplined, and their tough fur made them impervious to ordinary weapons. To them, the forest was their backyard.

    Encountering a Silverback Demon Wolf alone in the forest, especially for those not strong enough to defend themselves, would surely lead to tragedy.

    Not sound, be it even wind or leaves rustling, could escape their sharp hearing. The demon wolves¡¯ ears twitched, and they quickly noticed Chen Fan¡¯s presence. They stopped feasting and turned their heads in his direction.

    <i>Rustle.</i>

    Surprisingly, they showed no rm at his approach.

    One particrlyrge and robust male wolf even extended its front paw as if taunting Chen Fan toe closer.

    This disy of contempt and provocation was extremely unusual.

    The situation was extremely bizarre.

    A beast gesturing and taunting like a person was a strange sight indeed.

    However, Chen Fan, aware that demon beasts possessed considerable intelligence, wasn''t surprised. This alpha male wolf at the tier-one, eighth level had likely attained spirit status. It had intelligenceparable to that of an adult human.

    Knowing that, however, didn¡¯t mean that Chen Fan didn¡¯t find the action hateful.

    He was at the seventh level and hadbat strengthparable to Qi Grandmasters. Still, a demon beast was looking down on him. Anyone in his position would be furious.

    Of course, this anger was only valid if one had the strength to back it up. If not, survival would be the primary concern.

    ¡°Wretched beast! I will turn you into a ghost!¡±

    Chen Fan rebuked the Silverback Demon Wolf.

    The wolf, understanding his words, was enraged and let out a howl. It swiped its ws, conjuring a powerful gust of wind that transformed into whistling des.

 Chapter 73 - Golden Scaled Rhinoceros

    <h4>Chapter 73 - Golden Scaled Rhinoceros</h4>

    ¡°Gale Force?¡±

    Chen Fan squinted as he watched the tightly packed wind des hurtling toward him like raindrops, creating ripping sounds. Yet, he was fearless.

    Yet, he was fearless.

    Chen Fan smirked and reached out, solidifying the air into a steel-like shield that stood in front of him.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    These wind des shed the air shield, producing explosive noises. Sparks flew everywhere like a dazzling fireworks disy.

    With a forceful push from Chen Fan, the air shield advanced horizontally, obliterating the wind des in its path.

    ¡°Aooo...¡±

    The dozen or so demon wolves furiously howled to the skies. They charged like a gale, their savage appearance and their fangs bared for all to see.

    Equanimous, Chen Fan darted toward the tier-one, seventh-level Silverback Demon Wolves,ughing.

    Unleashing the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, he made the air whistle with each powerful strike.

    The air crackled with the afterimages of his fierce punches, each exploding with a resounding bang, swiftly dispatching the dozen or so Silverback Demon Wolves.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fannded on the ground, standing before the alpha wolf. With a punch, he sent the alpha wolf hurtling backward; it soon crashed into the ground and twitched a few times before sumbing to its wounds.

    Chen Fan gathered the corpses of the Silverback Demon Wolves and dug a huge pit. Again, he put the cocoon inside the blood pool.

    Xiaobai''s recovery required the blood of progressively stronger demon beasts. The effects from the wolves¡¯ blood were already minimal, but it was still better than nothing.

    Subsequently, Chen Fan dug another sizable pit and buried the mutted corpse the wolves had been devouring.

    Considering that they were disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect, he couldn''t just leave their corpses exposed in the wilderness.

    Suddenly, amotion arose in the middle of the forest, making the ground tremble.

    Chen Fan quickly stood up and looked in that direction.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    With a resounding crash, the trees broke as a rhinoceros covered entirely in golden scales burst forth from the forest.

    ¡°Golden Scaled Rhinoceros!

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed.

    This Golden Scaled Rhinoceros was a tier-one, eighth-level demon beast covered in scales as hard as gold, impervious to ordinary weapons. Even some grade-one treasures couldn¡¯t prate its defenses, which were said to be heaven-defying. Fighting such a demon beast was extremely difficult.

    Although Golden Scaled Rhinoceros weren¡¯t known for their attack power, its meter-long golden horn could easily pierce through steel, inflicting serious injuries with a single strike.

    Many tier-one, ninth-level demon beasts wouldn¡¯t dare provoke a Golden Scaled Rhinoceros if they encountered one.

    ¡°Moo!¡±

    A fiery glint appeared in the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros¡¯ eyes as it noticed the cocoon swimming in the blood pool.

    It could sense that the cocoon was extraordinary. The rhinoceros knew that devouring it would bring it immense benefits.

    ¡°Is this wretched beast drawn here by Xiaobai?¡±

    Chen Fan gazed at the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros, noticing its focused gaze on the cocoon. ¡°This wretched beast wants to devour Xiaobai!¡±

    ¡°Moo!¡±

    The Golden Scaled Rhinoceros roared again. It hootfooted toward the blood pool, making the ground shake as it aimed for the cocoon.

    ¡°How dare you, wretched beast!¡±

    Chen Fan grew furious and bellowed. He appeared in front of the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros and unleashed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. Although the rhinoceros¡¯ golden scales made it seem like he was bombarding a steel mountain, his formidable strength managed to hurt the demon beast, causing it to retreat continuously.

    ¡°Get lost, wretched beast, or I¡¯ll ughter you!¡± Chen Fan viciously red at the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros, putting up a ferocious front.

    However, he didn¡¯t want to fight the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros.

    Its defense was unbelievably tough, impervious even to his Killing Wind. Killing the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros would prove to be exceedingly difficult, and a slight distraction could result in a severe injury from the creature''s horn.

    s, the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros wasn¡¯t scared away by Chen Fan¡¯s shouts.

    It let out a roar, lowered its head, and abruptly charged toward Chen Fan. Its meter-long golden horn shone brilliantly, making Chen Fan¡¯s scalp numb.

    ¡°You wretched beast, you¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    Chen Fan dashed forward, swiftly moving to the side of the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros. He unleashed a barrage of punches using the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, making sparks fly off.

    ¡°Moo!¡±

    The Golden Scaled Rhinoceros turned in pain, sweeping its meter-long golden horn across.

    Chen Fan leaped onto the demon beast''s back, relentlessly pummeling it with punches.

    ¡°Moooo, moooooo.¡±

    The Golden Scaled Rhinoceros thrashed about, trying to get rid of Chen Fan, but he seemed firmly anchored to the beast, unaffected by its efforts. He continued to rain down blows; the ngs from the impact echoed in the area.

    ¡°Your skin is really thick, you wretched beast. I don¡¯t believe I can¡¯t break open this turtle shell of yours!¡±

    Chen Fan was on fire as he continued raining punches on the demon beast.

    His primeval energy surged, powering his limbs and unleashing the full power of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. Each of his punches carried the force of 8,000 jin, capable of crushing stone.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Although the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros''s thick skin and flesh gave it formidable defensive power, the relentless assault damaged its organs as some force seeped through its golden scales.

    Its formidable external defense concealed a vulnerable internal defense, making the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros susceptible to even the slightest internal impact.

    In a frenzy, it charged into the forest, toppling ancient trees in an attempt to dislodge Chen Fan from its back, but to no avail.

    Chen Fan¡¯s frenzied bombardment continued until he was all out of strength. He was drenched in sweat. Only then did he realize that the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros had stopped moving long ago.

    Although it bore no external injuries, its internal organs were a paste.

    ¡°Phew.¡±

    Chen Fan waspletely drained of strength, unable to muster the slightest hint of it.

    Utterly spent, Chen Fan slid off the demon beast''s back, leaning on its corpse motionless. After a quarter of an hour, he began to regain some energy.

    ¡°Ah, this feels awesome. The Golden Scaled Rhinoceros¡¯ golden scales are indeed tough, barely showing any damage after such a relentless onught. If I brought them to the World¡¯s End Pavilion in such condition, I¡¯d earn myself three thousand primeval stones at least!¡± Chen Fan eximed with joy, unable to contain his excitement.

    With difficulty, he removed the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros''s scales and horn, carefully stowing them away. These items were worth a fortune in primeval stones. He then dragged the descaled demon beast''s corpse to a blood pool to drain its blood.

    As an eighth-level demon beast, the Golden Scaled Rhinoceros''s blood contained vast energy, making Xiaobai''s cocoon glow impatiently.

    The power cultivated by tier-one demon beasts was all contained in their blood.

    After reaching the second tier, a demon core would condense in their brain, gathering all their powers, simr to the primeval vessel of Yuanfu realm martial artists.

    Xiaobai absorbed all the energy in the blood pool in an hour. His vitality had be extremely vigorous; it felt like he would break out of his cocoon and be a butterfly.

    <i>Will Xiaobai directly advance to the ninth level after breaking out of his cocoon, bingparable to a Qi Grandmaster?</i> Chen Fan pondered, preparing to stow Xiaobai away and resume his hunt for demon beasts.

    Suddenly!

    <i>Whoosh whoosh whoosh...</i>

    Something tearing through the air rang.

    ¡°Hold it right there, kid!¡±

    Chen Fan heard a cold shout. Around half a dozen ferocious-looking martial artists swept towards him.

    Each of them exuded a formidable aura and was shrouded in ayer of blood-colored mist. This nefarious qi could only be condensed after killing an unimaginable number of people.

 Chapter 74 - Sir Blood Shirt

    <h4>Chapter 74 - Sir Blood Shirt</h4>

    ¡°One at the peak of the eighth level, two at the middle stage of the eighth level, and five at the seventh level!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank when he saw this group of people.

    He was strong enough to exchange a few moves with a Qi Grandmaster like Sun Wenshan, but that didn¡¯t mean he could fight so many people alone.

    Moreover, each of these individuals exuded nefarious qi, indicating their ruthlessness. They were not to be underestimated.

    Although he felt uneasy around them, he wasn''t afraid.

    ¡°What did you call out to me like this?¡± Chen Fan asked calmly.

    ¡°Kid, cut the nonsense ande with us,¡± said the leading man, the only person with a peak eighth-level cultivation.

    He had caught Chen Fan putting away a few shining objects from afar. They were obviously treasures.

    However, he refrained from mentioning it, not wanting to back Chen Fan into a corner and risk him fleeing.

    The leading man could see the skinned Golden Scaled Rhinoceros nearby. Despite having a seventh-level cultivation, Chen Fan had killed the beast, so he wasn¡¯t sure his group could stop him from fleeing.

    ¡°Come with you... to where?¡± Chen Fan asked, frowning.

    ¡°Come with us to meet Sir Blood Shirt,¡± said the leading man coldly.

    Chen Fan wanted to refuse at first.

    Initially inclined to refuse, Chen Fan reconsidered upon seeing the icy gazes, the palpable killing intent, and the ferocious demeanor of the group. He realized that a refusal might result in immediate attacks from all sides.

    Although he wasn¡¯t afraid, he was smart enough to know that escaping wouldn¡¯t be easy.

    Furthermore, he wanted to see who exactly was this so-called ¡°Sir Blood Shirt.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go with you guys. Lead the way,¡± Chen Fan said, nodding.

    As they set off, Chen Fan was positioned in the middle of the group, as they feared that he might run away.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly in his heart, keen to discover the intentions of this group.

    The group ran straight to a valley about a dozen miles away.

    Before they entered the valley, a nauseating stench of blood wafted out.

    ¡°Hurry up and go in, kid!¡± one of the men with seventh-level cultivation suddenly pushed Chen Fan, scolding him.

    They were finally barring their savage fangs.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow. A cold glint shone in his eyes. However, he refrained from retaliating. Instead, he walked into the valley.

    Once he entered the valley, Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank violently.

    As he stepped into the valley, Chen Fan''s pupils violently contracted.

    He could see the entirety of the valley at a nce. At the innermost area, there was a massive blood pool, churning and bubbling with surges of blood qi, casting the surrounding air into a blood-red mist.

    Several silhouettes could be seen next to the blood pool.

    However, these figures were all tied up and kneeling on the ground. Their necks had been sliced open, and their fresh blood streamed into the blood pool.

    Surrounding them were densely packed human bones.

    Some skeletons were pitch-ck, obviously dead for a very long time.

    Blood had congealed in the middle of the blood pool to form a blood altar.

    A demon-like youth sat on the fresh blood altar, wearing a bloody shirt. He was devouringrge amounts of qi and blood energy.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart twitched violently, realizing the youth was using human blood to cultivate.

    White bones littered the surrounding ground, a testament to the countless lives lost in this tragedy.

    Chen Fan could even sense a mass of resentment gathering in this valley, which could evolve into an evil spirit in the decades or centuries toe.

    The youth in a bloody shirt opened his eyes and looked at Chen Fan. His expression screamed displeasure as he said, ¡°Hmm? Why did you only capture one guy?¡±

    ¡°Reporting to Sir, few people are showing up in the vicinity, so we only managed to bring one person back. If we were to expand our search area and continue capturing many people, we¡¯d likely draw the attention of the four great sects,¡± said the leading man respectfully.

    This man in a bloody shirt was ¡°Sir Blood Shirt.¡± He frowned slightly and said, ¡°Bring him here. It¡¯s better than nothing.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Quickly get moving, kid. To be Sir¡¯s blood sustenance is your fortune cultivated from eight lifetimes!¡± That seventh-level martial artist from before pushed Chen Fan.

    ¡°Blood sustenance?¡±

    Chen Fan had realized by now that this group captured people in the vicinity, brought them back here, and killed them to collect their blood for Sir Blood Shirt''s cultivation.

    Now, he was on his way to be Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s next meal.

    <i>Swish! Bzzz!</i>

    Chen Fan suddenly turned around. Killing Wind appeared in his hand, turned into a lightning bolt, and cleaved the seventh-level practitioner who had shoved him.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Summoning a second head and a pair of arms that struck out with incredible force, he swiftly dispatched three opponents before they could even react.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan used the Thunderp Sword next, shing the man with peak eighth-level cultivation.

    However, this man was experienced and reacted in time. He sacrificed a hand to block Chen Fan¡¯s lethal attack and quickly retreated.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    In a series of explosive confrontations, five of the eight men were killed, and two were left seriously injured. Only one man, with cultivation at the middle stage of the eighth level, managed to react in time and retreat. He was tens of meters away but was utterly shocked. Chen Fan didn¡¯t try to pursue and attack the man.

    Sir Blood Shirt was a Qi Grandmaster, and his aura was quite a bit stronger than Sun Wenshan¡¯s. He was likely cultivating here with human blood to enter the Yuanfu realm.

    Chen Fan immediately used his Ghostly Shadow Steps and turned to run.

    Now that he had killed off many of Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s followers, it would be much harder for him to capture people to cultivate.

    Sir Blood Shirt also reacted to the situation and eximed, "You¡¯re seeking death!"

    Furious at the swift demise of his minions and the severe injuries inflicted on his strongest follower, Sir Blood Shirt''s aura erupted. The blood altar blew up, along with everyone and everything by the blood pool. Even the white bones turned into powder.

    Leaping into the air, Sir Blood Shirt chased after Chen Fan. A long, crimson whip made from primeval qi materialized in his hand.

    ¡°Blood Shadow Divine Whip!¡±

    This cultivation technique was extraordinary; at the very least, it was a profound tier cultivation technique. It turned Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s bloody qi into a long whip, like a blood dragon,shing at the void and winding towards Chen Fan.

    The blood whip sliced through the air, emitting a haunting sound akin to an ape''s cry in the dead of night, its tragic resonance indescribable.

    Chen Fan turned around and attacked again with his sword.

    A thunderbolt tore through the air, colliding with the Blood Shadow Divine Whip. The strong impact made Chen Fan stumble; the shock made his arms numb.

    <i>So powerful! </i>Chen Fan thought.

    Despite being a Qi Grandmaster like Sun Wenshan, Sir Blood Shirt was much stronger than him. He had dislodged Killing Wind from Chen Fan¡¯s hand with a single whip attack.

    ¡°He must be a peak stage Qi Grandmaster, and his cultivation technique isplex. His identity must be not simple. His strength is much higher than ordinary peak Qi Grandmasters. I¡¯m in trouble.¡±

    Understanding the gravity of the situation, Chen Fan steadied himself and used the momentum to flee the valley.

 Chapter 75 - The Troublesome Chen Fan

    <h4>Chapter 75 - The Troublesome Chen Fan</h4>

    Chen Fan could exchange a few moves with an ordinary Qi Grandmaster, but facing an expert like Sir Blood Shirt would be perilous. After all, even his cultivation technique, the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique, was much stronger than the one Sun Wenshan used.

    Moreover, the Blood Shadow Divine Whip, formed from his blood demon primeval qi, was stronger than grade-one treasures. When he cracked his whip, the air exploded with crackling sounds. A direct hit would surely rend flesh and split skin.

    Chen Fan pushed his primeval qi to its limits, employing Ghostly Shadow Steps to dart across thendscape like a gust of wind, kicking up dust clouds and scattering dead leaves.

    <i>Tap, tap, tap...</i>

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Chen Fan could do nothing but sprint desperately. Meanwhile, Sir Blood Shirt effortlessly walked on air, wielding the whip like an extension of his arm.

    He had to constantly change directions just to narrowly avoid the excruciating pain.

    The force of Sir Blood Shirt''sshes was evident in the explosive waves of air and ground-shaking sts that followed in his wake.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh...</i>

    Chen Fan darted into the forest as if flung by a catapult.

    The Qingyang Mountain Range was densely covered in bushes, with ancient trees reaching hundreds of feet into the sky, their lush branches and leaves blotting out the sky. Once inside the thick forest, he would be like a fish in the sea.

    ¡°You wretched little bastard! You killed my servants, and now you dare to hide? Even if you burrow into the earth, I''ll drag you out!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan scurrying into the forest, Sir Blood Shirt descended to the ground and gave chase on foot, pursuing him furiously.

    ¡°You won¡¯t get away! When I catch you, I¡¯ll drain your blood and refine you into a blood demon! You''ll learn the price of crossing me!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Sir Blood Shirt''s threats rang out as the Blood Shadow Divine Whipshed out, rupturing ancient trees and sending wooden chips flying, cutting into Chen Fan''s skin.

    Chen Fan ignored Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s furious curses and threats while wriggling through the trees like a loach.

    Fortunately, he had an exceptional movement technique and an ample reserve of primeval qi. Otherwise, he would have long exhausted himself and gotten captured by Sir Blood Shirt.

    ......

    Later, by a stream, Chen Fan tended to his wounds, muttering curses under his breath.

    ¡°That damned Sir Blood Shirt!

    ¡°He''s no proper martial artist; he cultivates using human blood. He''s a demonic cultivator, a scourge that must be eradicated from the Tianwu Continent. These practitioners advance rapidly through unorthodox and evil methods, but they are not true martial artists. They should be exterminated like rats in the streets.¡±

    Chen Fan knew that demonic cultivators like Sir Blood Shirt caused untold tragedies and should be stopped at all costs.

    Take Sir Blood Shirt, for example. How many lives did he have to take to amass all those skeletons? What kind of martial artist was he, if not a demonic cultivator? He used human blood for cultivation; it was a tragedy.

    ¡°I must think of a way to kill this Sir Blood Shirt. Who knows how many more innocent people he¡¯ll ughter if a demonic cultivator like him breaks through to the Yuanfu realm?

    ¡°Such people have no concept of righteousness or morality. Humans are no different from animals in their eyes, mere tools to provide fresh blood for their cultivation.¡±

    Cold killing intent shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Although he didn¡¯t consider himself a warrior of justice, he had a bit of conscience. He had once aspired to be an honorable warrior who upheld principles and repaid debts and grudges ordingly.

    Encountering a demonic cultivator like Sir Blood Shirt had fueled his desire to eliminate such a threat and prevent more people from suffering under his evil ways.

    <i>But how can I kill him?</i>

    Chen Fan was troubled once more.

    With his strength, let alone killing Sir Blood Shirt, he couldn¡¯t even kill ordinary Qi Grandmasters. He could only fight Qi Grandmasters to a standstill without advancing to the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    ......

    ¡°Argh, you little beast, little bastard, you deserve to die! Die!¡±

    In the valley, Sir Blood Shirt erupted in a rage. His Blood Shadow Divine Whip transformed into an inescapable, enveloping the area and making the ground shake and dirt fly as numerous crimson shes fell.

    <i>Rumble!</i> The ground bore intertwining marks left by the Blood Shadow Divine Whip, which possessed potent corrosive properties.

    Chen Fan rolled on the ground and then charged forward like a monkey, scampering into the forest.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Sir Blood Shirt''s rampage shattered arge swath of trees, startling the nearby demon beasts, whose roars echoed through the forest.

    ¡°Damn it, damn it. Don¡¯t let me get my hands on you, little bastard, or I¡¯ll skin you alive!¡± Sir Blood Shirt roared furiously. Chen Fan had already disappeared from sight.

    Over the next few days, Chen Fan continued to appear unexpectedly, ambushing Sir Blood Shirt''s subordinates. Sometimes, he would attack them in broad daylight, and at others, he would sneakily deal with them at night. Nearly all of them had fallen victim to his attacks.

    It went without saying Sir Blood Shirt had more than just those eight men as his subordinates. There were more than twenty people divided into a few groups to capture people from outside and support his cultivation.

    However, their cultivation levels topped out at the peak of the eighth level. How could they possibly resist Chen Fan¡¯s sneak attacks when they weren¡¯t Qi Grandmasters?

    Sir Blood Shirt''s exasperated roars echoed through the valley in the following days as he attempted to chase Chen Fan, but the depth and strength of Chen Fan''s primeval qi far exceeded his expectations.

    Sir Blood Shirt was also unwilling to relocate, as creating a blood pool was no simple task.

    He had to kill hundreds of people toplete the blood pool in this valley.

    If he were to change locations and build a new blood pool, it would take a lot of time and effort, and he would need to capture and kill many people. It would easily draw the attention of the experts of the four great sects.

    He was on the verge of a cultivation breakthrough and didn''t want toplicate matters.

    This line of thinking, however, yed into Chen Fan''s hands, allowing him to repeatedly ambush Sir Blood Shirt and disrupt his cultivation.

    Sir Blood Shirt even grew to resent the subordinates who had brought Chen Fan back in the first ce, regretting their decision to do so.

    If they had known Chen Fan was so troublesome to deal with, then they shouldn¡¯t have brought him back in the first ce.

    ......

    ¡°Ptooi!¡±

    On a slope, Chen Fan spat out a mouthful of blood, a cold smile on his face.

    Over the past few days, he had been harassing Sir Blood Shirt''s group. Sometimes, he would escape only to return secondster to kill a few more, leaving the group traumatized and on edge.

    Although there were moments when Sir Blood Shirt nearly caught him, he always managed to escape, albeit with some injuries.

    ¡°I have already killed nearly all of Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s subordinates, but unfortunately, it¡¯s simply impossible for me to kill the man himself. He is also on the brink of a breakthrough in his cultivation. I won''t stand a chance if he reaches the Yuanfu realm. What can I do to take him out?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind raced.

    Sir Blood Shirt was the leader of this group. If Chen Fan eliminated this person, the others wouldn¡¯t matter much.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    Just as Chen Fan was deep in thought, an earth-shaking, beastly roar suddenly came from afar, scaring the birds in the forest to fly around in panic, chirping in fear.

    Other demon beasts also began to roar, their voices tinged with fear.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan stood up, looking in the distance. ¡°Qi Grandmaster realm demon beast!¡±

    ¡°I got it!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes immediately lit up, a smile spreading across his face.

 Chapter 76 - Luring a Calamity to Others

    <h4>Chapter 76 - Luring a Cmity to Others</h4>

    Chen Fan quickly leaped between trees, darting through the forest.

    ¡°This is the ce.¡±

    Perched high on a massive tree, Chen Fan concealed his presence as best he could and surveyed the area ahead.

    A towering peak loomed in the distance, reaching into the sky.

    At the foot of the peak was a gigantic cave, its entrance charred by fire. Waves of scorching hot air currents gushed out from the cave.

    This was their of a demon beast.

    In front of this cave was a clearing with rocks scattered about. The rocks showed signs of being melted into ze by fire.

    A lion was ying in this rocky clearing.

    ¡°Amethyst Horned Lion!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk violently.

    Amethyst Horned Lions were a mighty species of demon beasts.

    Even the weakest mature Amethyst Horned Lion wasparable to a Qi Grandmaster in human terms. The stronger ones could rival experts of the Yuanfu realm.

    The cub in the clearing seemed to be a tier-one, third-level beast, equivalent to a third-level martial artist.

    <i>That roar from earlier must be a warning from the cub¡¯s mother, warning the nearby demon beasts not toy their hands on it. </i>Chen Fan quickly realized.

    He fixed his gaze on the cave, sensing the immense power emanating from within.

    ¡°A mature ninth-level Amethyst Horned Lion!¡±

    Chen Fan quickly ran the numbers in his head. Soon, his eyes gleamed, and a cold smile yed at the corners of his mouth. ¡°Got it!¡±

    He shot out like an arrow, fast as a bolt of lightning.

    The young lion didn''t even have time to react before Chen Fan struck it down. He stowed the corpse away with a quick hand movement and dashed into the forest.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    At almost the same time, an earth-shaking, furious roar resounded, and a thirty-foot-long Amethyst Horned Lion came rushing out from the cave.

    The Amethyst Horned Lion had sensed its cub¡¯s aura disappearing and knew something untoward had happened to its child. It bellowed, catching sight of Chen Fan darting into the forest.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    Its angry roar resounded through heaven and earth.

    Clusters of purple mes swirled on the sharp, spiral horn on the lion''s head. Like a methrower, the mes shot out from the horn''s tip.

    <i>Whoosh¡ªcrackle!</i>

    The trees touched by the purple mes ignited. Crackling sounds filled the air as the trees were swiftly reduced to ash.

    Chen Fan''s heart trembled, and he dared not pause for even a moment.

    Channeling all the primeval qi in his dantian to his feet, he executed the Ghostly Shadow Steps, his figure flickering through the forest like a phantom.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Behind him, the Amethyst Horned Lion¡¯s ferocious aura filled the space, giving off a suffocating feeling as it chased Chen Fan crazily. All the trees that stood in its way turned to ash.

    ¡°Roarrrr!¡±

    Furious, the Amethyst Horned Lion shot terrifying purple mes from its horn while roaring. It wanted to burn the killer of its cub to death, but the mes spread through the forest.

    Chen Fan kept moving, ensuring he didn''t linger in one ce. Using the forest as a cover, he dodged the lion''s mes several times by the skin of his teeth.

    ¡°Sir Blood Shirt, I hope you¡¯ll like this present!¡±

    Chen Fan fled desperately, a sinister smile ying on his lips.

    He was heading straight for Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s valley.

    ......

    In the valley:

    Sir Blood Shirt condensed a new fresh blood altar in the blood pool. Qi and blood energy flowed into him through his pores, nourishing his cultivation.

    His few remaining servants and subordinatesy in wait, ready to spring their trap on Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom, boom...</i>

    Suddenly, a violent rumble echoed from outside the valley.

    These people quickly became nervous. Sir Blood Shirt stopped cultivating, and his eyes snapped open, a chilling light shing in them.

    ¡°That damned little bastard, he¡¯s here again!¡± Sir Blood Shirt rose from the blood altar, his voice icy.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. That brat didn''t sneak in this time; he''s causing a ruckus outside the valley. He knows we¡¯ve set up an ambush inside. Damn it, seriously. This time, I¡¯ll make sure to kill him even if I have to draw the attention of the four great sects!¡± Sir Blood Shirt said furiously.

    He led his three subordinates out of the valley.

    ¡°Haha, Sir Blood Shirt, I¡¯m here again!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt had just left the valley when he heard Chen Fan¡¯sughter. His face twisted from anger. ¡°You wretched little bastard, I¡¯ll capture you even if you run off to the ends of the world. I will teach you the price you¡¯ll have to pay for offending me!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt stomped the ground and charged fiercely toward Chen Fan as if he would really pursue him to the ends of the earth.

    ¡°Haha, Sir Blood Shirt, I¡¯m here to give you a present this time!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone when Sir Blood Shirt charged at him. He took out the corpse and threw it violently at him. ¡°Watch out for my hidden weapon!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt was taken aback and swiftly thrust out a palm, driving his qi.

    <i>Boom st!</i>

    Sir Blood Shirt obliterated the corpse. Fresh blood sttered everywhere, staining his clothes.

    ¡°Damn it, you dare trick me!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt was fuming with anger.

    He really thought it was some kind of hidden weapon. Unexpectedly, Chen Fan had thrown a demon beast¡¯s corpse at him.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt reached out with his palm and grabbed at the air. His primeval qi condensed into the Blood Shadow Divine Whip,shing at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan fended off the attacks slightly, then used its force to fly backward, falling into the thicket.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The Amethyst Horned Lion suddenly burst out from the forest, its eyes zing with fury.

    The scent of its cub¡¯s blood on Sir Bloodshirt sent the creature into a rage, making the purple mes on the tip of its horn re up and shoot toward Sir Bloodshirt.

    ¡°Oh shoot!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt quickly realized that Chen Fan had yed him like a fiddle.

    Chen Fan had in the Amethyst Horned Lion''s cub and intentionally led it to this valley.

    He was stained with the Amethyst Horned Lion cub¡¯s fresh blood. He could not get himself out of this mess even if he tried.

    Sir Blood Shirt was on the verge of vomiting blood from anger.

    For days, he had endured constant harassment from Chen Fan, who had killed many of his subordinates. Now, he had been saddled with this cmity.

    He didn¡¯t even have the luxury of being angry now, as the Amethyst Horned Lion was alreadyunching attacks at him.

    The creature''s purple mes engulfed him, their searing heat causing intense pain and roasting his skin.

    ¡°Blood Shadow Divine Whip, Whirlwind Drill!¡±

    Sir Bloodshirt swung his arm, causing his Blood Shadow Divine Whip to act like a drill. It shattered the Amethyst Horned Lion''s purple mes into countless sparks.

 Chapter 77 - Reaping Benefits from the Side

    <h4>Chapter 77 - Reaping Benefits from the Side</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Sir Blood Shirt and the Amethyst Horned Lion shed fiercely in the valley.

    The Blood Shadow Divine Whip, looking like a blood-colored venomous dragon, roared through the air as it attacked the Amethyst Horned Lion, creating a cacophony of violent winds.

    The Amethyst Horned Lion was engulfed in purple mes, which shed unceasingly with the Blood Shadow Divine Whip, resulting in a lengthy rumble.

    Sir Blood Shirt was a Qi Grandmaster on the verge of advancing to the Yuanfu realm. However, the Amethyst Horned Lion wasn¡¯t a weakling either. The tier-one, ninth-level beast possessed formidable purple mes that could faintly restrain Sir Blood Shirt''s whip.

    The man and beast fought on equal footing for a while.

    <i>A battle between two Qi Grandmasters is indeed terrifying! </i>Chen Fan thought, spying on the battle from a tree while concealing his aura.

    Sun Wenshan was not on the same level as Sir Blood Shirt and the Amethyst Horned Lion.

    Despite being Qi Grandmasters, there were clear disparities in their power, with Sir Blood Shirt undoubtedly being at the top level.

    ¡°Sir Blood Shirt draws strength from human blood and practices a demonic cultivation technique. The Amethyst Horned Lion''s mes have extreme yang properties, making them a natural enemy of demonic primeval qi as it has yin properties. Thanks to that, the lion could bring this fight to a draw, even if it is a bit weaker than Sir Blood Shirt.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, fight even harder. It would be perfect if both of you end up seriously hurt. Then I can reap all the rewards without lifting a finger.¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly in his heart.

    Sir Blood Shirt had a retinue of followers and practiced an extraordinary cultivation technique, albeit a demonic one beyond the reach of martial ns like the Lin n. [1]

    Chen Fan deduced that Sir Blood Shirt''s identity wasn¡¯t simple, and he likely carried great treasures.

    He nned to wait until Sir Blood Shirt and the Amethyst Horned Lion were weakened before swooping in to im all the spoils. Not only could he obtain the treasures on Sir Blood Shirt, but he could even sell the Amethyst Horned Lion¡¯s corpse for a good price.

    It was like hitting two birds with one stone.

    ......

    Meanwhile, Sir Blood Shirt felt so frustrated that he could vomit blood.

    Never in his harshest nightmares had he ever imagined that a seventh-level practitioner, whom he had seen as nothing more than his next meal and an ant he could easily crush, would bring him such pain.

    His peace and quiet were gone as Chen Fan kept ambushing him and killing his subordinates. He could no longer even concentrate on advancing to the next realm.

    Now, he found himself dealing with the relentless attacks of the Amethyst Horned Lion, all thanks to Chen Fan''s machinations. Why didn¡¯t he go ahead and pour a pot of feces on his head while he was at it?

    And that wasn''t even the worst of it.

    He was stronger than the Amethyst Horned Lion. Even if his demonic primeval qi was restrained by its purple mes, he could y the Amethyst Horned Lion.

    However, he was acutely aware that Chen Fan was likely nearby, waiting for the perfect moment to take advantage of their weakened state.

    With this in mind, he held back from using his full strength against the Amethyst Horned Lion. Seething with anger, he wanted to tear Chen Fan into pieces.

    Sir Blood Shirt dared not use his full strength, but the Amethyst Horned Lion had gonepletely mad.

    It relentlessly attacked Sir Blood Shirt, seeking revenge for the death of its offspring.

    Balls of me shot out from the tip of its horn, engulfing the surroundings in a sea of fire.

    The rocks and dirt on the ground melted from the extreme heat, charring the surrounding trees.

    Over time, the Amethyst Horned Lion gained the upper hand, suppressing Sir Blood Shirt.

    Meanwhile, Sir Blood Shirt''s three subordinates dared not intervene, aware that even the slightest ripple from a battle between Qi Grandmasters could cause severe injuries to eighth-level experts.

    ¡°Damn it, what are you three waiting for?! Kill this beast together with me!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s expression was hideous.

    He hadn¡¯t been using all his strength, fearing Chen Fan''s interference. Consequently, the Amethyst Horned Lion took advantage of his restraint, ruthlessly suppressing and nearly tearing him apart several times.

    Hearing Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s furious shout, the three reluctantly stepped forward, hoping to restrain the Amethyst Horned Lion and create an opening for Sir Blood Shirt.

    However, with just a single move, the Amethyst Horned Lion killed two of them and dealt heavy injuries to the third.

    Sir Blood Shirt seized the opportunity andshed his Blood Shadow Divine Whip on the Amethyst Horned Lion, suppressing its purple mes.

    A bloody gash appeared on the lion. The Blood Shadow Divine Whip had ripped its flesh and blood, and the sinister demonic primeval qi seeped into the lion and started wreaking havoc from within.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The Amethyst Horned Lion roared furiously andunched even more frenzied attacks without regard for its own life, inflicting deep wounds that exposed Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s bones.

    ¡°Damn it, you stupid beast! If you want to die, I shall grant your wish!¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt was thoroughly enraged.

    If this continued, he wouldn¡¯t even be alive to worry about Chen Fan, as the lion would have killed him first.

    ¡°They¡¯re about to fight to the death!¡±

    Chen Fan observed from his concealed vantage point, his eyes narrowing.

    Primeval qi, resembling fresh blood, arose from Sir Blood Shirt. The primeval qi was so condensed that it looked like a liquid; it would be more apt to call it primeval force. To advance to the Yuanfu Realm, Qi Grandmasters first had to gather vast amounts of primeval qi from the heavens and earth to form their primeval vessel. Next, they had topress the primeval qi to the extreme, refining it into primeval force. [2]

    Sir Blood Shirt was already at a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster and had been trying to advance to the Yuanfu realm in this valley. So, some of his primeval qi had already transformed into primeval force.

    A blood saber materialized above Sir Blood Shirt''s head and swiftly descended toward the Amethyst Horned Lion.

    The Amethyst Horned Lion naturally sensed the danger; it realized that its opponent was finally going all out.

    A wisp of white me rose from its horn, causing the temperature in the area to soar.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A thunderous explosion followed, giving rise to a mushroom cloud that engulfed the valley, turning the surroundings into a zing inferno. The fire melted the limestone and even the trees in the area.

    The massive tree Chen Fan had been hiding on also felt the impact of the mes, forcing him to leap to anotherrge tree.

    It took a long time for the fire to die down. It reduced the entire area to a deste mess.

    The ground was scorched, and the Amethyst Horned Lion had been split in half by Sir Blood Shirt''s blood saber.

    However, Sir Blood Shirt didn¡¯t look much better. He looked like a piece of charcoal, his armor riddled with holes, and he struggled to breathe.

    Although he wasn¡¯t dead, he was barely hanging on to life. It wouldn¡¯t take long for him to breathe hisst.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan jumped down from the huge tree and walked over with a faint smile.

    Both sides suffered grave injuries¡ªexactly the oue he had been aiming for.

    ¡°Damn it, curse you, little bastard. Even if I be a ghost, I won''t let you off!!¡± Resentment shed in Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s eyes when he saw Chen Fan sauntering over.

    He was the Sir Blood Shirt. He never expected to meet with such an end.

    ¡°You still want to be a ghost?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly. A cold light shed in his eyes as he said, ¡°No such chance for you. You practice demonic cultivation techniques and kill the innocent. How many people have died at your hands? The resentment in the valley is so heavy it can pierce the heavens. The dead won¡¯t let you off. It¡¯s impossible for you to even be a ghost!¡±

    ¡°Die!¡±

    However, Sir Blood Shirt suddenly made his final move in defiance. He opened his mouth and spat out fresh blood. It transformed into a blood arrow, aiming for Chen Fan¡¯s forehead.

    1. Referring to the n Lin Ba, the rich guy at the auction, belongs to. ?

    2. Yuanfu is tranted as primeval vessel, a vessel for primeval qi/force. I thought I should distinguish the primeval vessel they form in their body and the cultivation realm, or it might be confusing. ?

 Chapter 78 - Refining Blood Poison, Peak Stage Seventh Level

    <h4>Chapter 78 - Refining Blood Poison, Peak Stage Seventh Level</h4>

    Sir Blood Shirt''s sudden final attack caught Chen Fan off guard.

    As Sir Blood Shirt spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, it had transformed into a blood arrow aimed at Chen Fan''s brow.

    Reacting swiftly, Chen Fan reached out and grabbed the blood arrow hurtling toward him.

    Pain.

    The pain was immediate as the blood arrow pierced through his protective primeval qi and embedded itself in his palm, seemingly with a will of its own.

    ¡°Haha, you little bastard. Now that my blood poison is in your veins, you¡¯ll turn into a blood-sucking jiangshi even if you survive. Now, the world will hunt you like an animal!¡± Sir Blood Shirt said,ughing out loud. [1]

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan struck out with a palm, and the Golden Light Palm pierced through his opponent¡¯s chest.

    Even as he died, Sir Blood Shirt wore a triumphant smile as if to convey that even though he wouldn''t survive, neither would Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned horrid.

    His youth and immaturity had led him to underestimate his enemy.

    He had assumed that Sir Blood Shirt wasn¡¯t a threat, as he was on death¡¯s door.

    Unexpectedly, Sir Blood Shirt made a final, desperate strike against Chen Fan. If he hadn''t reacted quickly, the blood arrow would have pierced his forehead. Still, the blood arrow tore through his palm.

    The mouthful of poisonous blood seeped into his vascr system, spreading instantly. Chen Fan felt an inexplicable thirst for blood.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Chen Fan wasted no time and quickly assumed the lotus position, his expression grim as he used his cultivation to expel the poison.

    If Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s words were true, failing to purge the poison would turn him into a blood-sucking jiangshi. He would be a monstrous being, neither human nor ghost, hunted by all.

    In the Tianwu Continent, many sought to advance their cultivation rapidly and took shortcuts, resorting to demonic cultivation techniques. For example, Sir Blood Shirt used human blood to cultivate; some even turned themselves into jiangshis by consuming human blood.

    Ordinary people could rapidly advance their cultivation by practicing these demonic techniques.

    With enough fresh blood, they could reach the fifth or sixth level in two to three months and be Qi Grandmasters in two to three years.

    The allure of quickly increasing one''s cultivation was strong for martial artists, as, in this world, strength was revered, granting one power, respect, and dignity.

    The temptation of such rapid cultivation led many astray.

    Rumors had it that the ancient demon king had created these cultivation techniques that used blood to empower a cultivator. Seeing humans prosper, he had created the Blood Emperor Demonic Scripture¡ªa heaven tier cultivation technique¡ªto lure them into the demonic path, which tragically seeded.

    Deep in every human¡¯s heart was a hidden madness that craved strength. It wanted power at all costs, leading to many tragedies worldwide.

    Many martial artists had united to eliminate those who practiced demonic cultivation techniques.

    Human martial artists paid a heavy price to ensure no future threats, sacrificing numerous experts to finally vanquish the ancient demon king.

    However, old institutions die hard. It wasn¡¯t a surprise that a Sir Blood Shirt popped up out of nowhere now.

    ......

    The blood poison inside Chen Fan was potent.

    Sir Blood Shirt''s final strike was powerful. Despite Chen Fan''s attempts to use his primeval qi to suppress the poison, he failed to expel it.

    He even felt a tingling sensation in his gums, as if they were about to produce sharp fangs for bloodsucking.

    ¡°Damn it! What should I do?¡± Chen Fan felt a sense of panic.

    Chen Fan rummaged through Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s corpse, hoping to find an antidote.

    ¡°Oh? This is a storage ring!¡±

    Removing the ring from Sir Blood Shirt''s finger, Chen Fan infused his primeval qi into it, instantly uncovering all the items stored within.

    ¡°Not here, it¡¯s not here...¡±

    Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s identity was, as expected, extraordinary. His storage ring had plenty of treasures, with more than ten thousand primeval stones in there and a martial art known as Blood Demon Cultivation Technique, an upper profound tier cultivation technique. Sir Blood Shirt had been practicing this technique.

    Other than that, there were also some blood pills, elixirs, ores, and so on.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t find any antidote.

    ¡°Refine. I''ll use my body as the furnace and employ the Heaven Seizing Art to refine all the blood in me. I refuse to believe it won''t work!¡± Chen Fan''s eyes turned steely as he activated the Heaven Seizing Art.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    All of Chen Fan''s pores opened up, emitting weak mes¡ªblood fire. Using himself as the Heaven Seizing Furnace, he refined all his blood quickly.

    Refining the blood poison wasn¡¯t as simple as refining Netherworld White Bone primeval qi, as it hadbined with Chen Fan''s blood.

    Refining the Netherworld White Bone primeval qi was to refine foreign objects, while refining his blood was to refine himself.

    Chen Fan quickly felt his blood boiling and burning. Under the intense heat, his meridians twisted violently like fried dough twists; it felt like they would snap. [2]

    Pain!

    The pain was excruciating.

    Chen Fan convulsed violently. He gritted his teeth stubbornly as wisps of blood mist floated from his pores.

    <i>Tsss, tssssss...</i>

    Seemingly sensing the danger of being refined, the blood poison emitted hissing sounds that made one''s hair stand on end.

    Time passed by just like that.

    For three full days, Chen Fan remained motionless in the lotus position. Ayer of blood scab formed on his skin, covering him from head to toe.

    <i>Crack, crack...</i>

    Suddenly, cracks appeared in the blood scab, producing faint cracking noises.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A violent qi wave spread from Chen Fan, shattering the blood scabs enveloping him.

    He opened his eyes; a sharp light shed in them. He exhaled a long breath of turbid air.

    It took three days, but he managed to refine the blood poison by refining his fresh blood multiple times and vaporizing more than half of it.

    Fortunately, martial artists had robust vitality, allowing them to generate new blood at a rapid pace.

    Sir Blood Shirt had formed that blood poison by condensing the essence of all his blood. In a way, it was the result of the lifetime of his efforts.

    After the refining, the poison was gone from the blood poison, leaving only the thick essence. Chen Fan directly refined and absorbed it, transforming it into a vital essence. It boosted the primeval energy in his dantian, taking him to the peak of the seventh level.

    ¡°The blood poison ended up helping me? Fortune and misfortune indeed go hand in hand. Truly a testament to the lifetime of effort of a Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but sigh.

    Of course, he felt some lingering fear.

    Without the unparalleled cultivation technique¡ªHeaven Seizing Art, he might have sumbed to Sir Blood Shirt''s blood poison, bing a jiangshi that fed on others'' blood and became a target for everyone in the world. <i>I must advance to the Qi Grandmaster realm as soon as possible and condense the Heaven Seizing Furnace. Then, I won¡¯t have to act as the furnace. The Heaven Seizing Furnace will take care of all evil spirits and demonic objects for me in the future! </i>Chen Fan thought.

    After recent events, Chen Fan eagerly anticipated the formation of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    After acting as the furnace himself, he had gotten a trace of Heaven Seizing Art¡¯s ability. However, if he were struck by a Yuanfu realm expert¡¯s blood poison, acting as the furnace himself wouldn¡¯t suffice. He would need the real Heaven Seizing Furnace to refine that.

    ¡°The Qi Grandmaster realm isn¡¯t all that far away.¡±

    A glint of determination shed in Chen Fan''s eyes.

    He was now at the peak of the seventh level and had sufficient primeval stones on him, so his next breakthrough didn¡¯t seem far away.

    However, he wasn¡¯t preparing to immediately break through to the eighth level. He needed to stabilize his primeval qi first.

    After all, it was refined and converted from Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s blood essence, not cultivated through his efforts. He needed to temper it first.

    1. I chose to keep Jiangshi as it is instead of tranting them to zombie or vampire because there are differences in the zombies from Chinese and Western folklore, and so far, this novel¡¯s settings have been kept oriental. ?

    2. Fried dough twist or Mahua is a Chinese dough twist that is fried in peanut oil. It has a shiny and golden look. It is prepared in various ways with different vors, which range from sweet to spicy, and usually has a dense and crisp texture. ?

 Chapter 79 - A Gathering Storm

    <h4>Chapter 79 - A Gathering Storm</h4>

    The Great Chu Empire, ck Corpse Mountain Range, Shi n¡¯snd :

    The ck Corpse Mountain Range¡¯s natural environment was harsh and dangerous. It was teeming with demon beasts and remnants of ancient mutated creatures. However, the Shi n was situated in the deepest area of this mountain range.

    Rumors had it that it used to be an ancient battlefield.

    The corpses buried in the depths of thisnd absorbed the nefarious qi of heaven and earth. Some sessfully cultivated into demon spirits, some into jiangshis, and others into malevolent spirits, making it an exceedingly perilous ce.

    Only a brave few dared to venture into this region, as those who disyed even the slightest hint of carelessness risked falling victim to the various spirits here. As a result, its infamy spread, dissuading most from entering the ck Corpse Mountain Range for training.

    Blood Valley, which looked like it was made of fresh blood, was adorned with scattered pces, evoking the image of a world from another dimension.

    Deep within the valleyy colossal blood pools, dwarfing even the one constructed by Sir Blood Shirt. Inside them, blood water turned and sshed about, bubbling.

    Figures dressed in blood-soaked shirts sat on the fresh blood altars in the blood pools, wildly absorbing the power of fresh blood. These people were practicing a simr cultivation technique to Sir Blood Shirt.

    ¡°Bad news! Something terrible has happened!¡±

    A figure burst into the hall like a gust of wind, sweat glistening on their forehead. He knelt on the floor with a loud plop and said, trembling, ¡°Ma-Master, bad news! Third Young Master¡¯s life tablet... has shattered!¡± [1]

    ¡°What?!¡±

    The middle-aged man, seated upon the throne of bones, abruptly rose to his feet, his aura emanating with such intensity that his surroundings began to tremble.

    ¡°Third Young Master¡¯s life tablet has shattered.¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A crimson pir of primeval qi erupted from the middle-aged man''s skull, shattering the roof of the hall. The pir was visible to anyone within a hundred-mile radius.

    The middle-aged man withdrew his aura after a while and gestured to the person kneeling before him. ¡°Stand down, I understand.¡±

    ¡°Xue Yi¡¯s life tablet shattered... He went to Qingyang County City to make contact with our spy. Was our spy exposed, prompting the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s experts to kill them and my son?¡± [2]

    The middle-aged man''s eyes gleamed. He summoned someone and issued instructions.

    ......

    ¡°What a pity.¡± Chen Fanmented, gazing at the two halves of the Amethyst Horned Lion¡¯s corpse.

    As a whole, this first-tier, ninth-level demon beast held great value, but as two halves, it was useless. Only the horns remained salvageable for some profit.

    ¡°I already have a storage ring, so I¡¯ll just give Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s storage ring to Senior Sister.¡±

    He meticulously sorted the contents of Sir Blood Shirt''s ring, discarding the superfluous items, including the forbidden but upper profound tier martial art, Blood Demon Cultivate Technique. Its dissemination would yield dire consequences.

    Moreover, if he were found in possession of it, he would be branded a demonic cultivator, a predicament from which there would be no escape.

    Given his rapid advancement in cultivation, it was inevitable for others to attribute it to the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique.

    Chen Fan dragged Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s corpse into the valley. Addressing the lingering resentment in the air, he dered, ¡°When settling disputes, one should not involve third parties. I¡¯ve already helped you kill your enemy. Seek retribution for your grievances, then disperse.¡±

    Leaving the grievances unattended seemed unwise, as they could evolve into malevolent spirits, harming others in the future. The wise choice was to address the matter to avert futureplications.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh...</i>

    Gusts of winds materialized in the area as wisps of resentment swiftly infiltrated Sir Blood Shirt''s corpse, causing it to wither at an elerated pace.

    With that, the amassed resentment in the skies above the valley appeared resolved, dissipating into nothingness.

    Chen Fan then proceeded to obliterate the blood pool before departing.

    ......

    A figure sat cross-legged atop a mountain peak within the Mountain River Sect, enveloped in swirling white qi.

    <i>Crack! Crack!</i>

    Suddenly, faint cracking noises reverberated.

    With this silhouette in the center, ayer of frost rapidly encased the mountain peak, extending in all directions.

    The summit was entirely cloaked in a sheet of ice, freezing the trees, grass, and flowers in ce.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    Several figures flitted over.

    ¡°Congrattions to Senior Brother Xuan Feixue on achieving major mastery!¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Xuan Feixue, you recently became a Qi Grandmaster, and now that your Hornless Ice Dragon is at major mastery, our Mountain River Sect''s reputation is sure to soar during our journey to the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land!¡±

    These individuals, all outer sect disciples of the Mountain River Sect, gazed at Xuan Feixue with admiration, showering him with endless praise.

    ......

    Beneath a towering mountain peak in the Burning Incense Valley, a waterfall cascaded from the sky, thundering as it plunged into the pool below.

    Within this pool sat a handsome man, exuding a faint golden glow like a Buddha. His eyes were closed, but he emanated a powerful aura, allowing the violent waterfall to crash onto him.

    He was the number one disciple of the Burning Incense Valley¡¯s outer sect¡ªChu Qing.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    Suddenly, Chu Qing leaped up from the pool, his golden radiance making him appear like a soaring golden dragon, exuding a magnificent aura.

    Four marble-sized water droplets surrounded him, circling him as he leaped.

    ¡°Haha, the opening of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is imminent. If the rumors are to be believed, it''s hiding inside the blood of a divine dragon. With that drop of golden blood, I can temper my physique and be stronger than Zhong Li, Xuan Feixue, Wang Fuchen, and all the others. I could kill them all!¡±

    <i>Bang! Bang! Bang!</i>

    Water droplets sprayed everywhere like cannonballs, bombarding the mountain cliff and causing rocks to scatter in all directions.

    ......

    Floating Cloud Sword Sect, the Sword Graveyard:

    Numerous swords, either broken or covered in rust, could be seen sticking out of the earth.

    Invisible sword qi whistled through the space, slicing the air and producing hissing sounds.

    A figure d in white sat upon one of the sword graves; streaks of invisible sword qi coiled around him like serpents.

    Suddenly, the remnants of the swords within the graveyard trembled violently as if provoked by something, producing buzzing sounds, yearning to depart from this graveyard.

    Simultaneously, the white-d figure''s eyes snapped open, their gaze as sharp as a sword''s edge. Seizing the precious sword resting on theirp, they gracefully leaped into the air and moved as if dancing.

    ¡°Hatred for Man!¡±

    A terrifying sword light darted with a swooshing sound, seemingly rending the fabric of space. A mountaintop immediately split under this sword light; the cut was as smooth as a mirror.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Wang Tengfei came over and said with a face full of surprise, ¡°Cousin, you mastered the Hatred Asunder Sword Technique?¡±

    ¡°Not yet. I only learned the first form, Hatred for Man. It¡¯s still too soon for me toprehend Hatred for Earth and Hatred for Heaven,¡± said the guy in white clothes, Wang Fuchen.

    Wang Tengfei said, ¡°That¡¯s nothing. With your strength, even if you only learned the Hatred for Man technique, it is sufficient for you to dominate the disciples from the three other sects. Our Floating Cloud Sword Sect will undoubtedly reign supreme during our journey to the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. No one will be able to rival you, Cousin.¡±

    ......

    The top disciples of the four great sects of Qingyang Mountain Range were all gearing up for the journey to the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. Those disciples who had earned the qualifications to enter the blessednd eagerly anticipated the fiercepetition.

    Blessednds held immense treasures for martial artists, allowing them to gain significant benefits and advance to the next level.

    However, this kind of training was not a mere dance but a brutal and bloody trial. It was a ce filled with ruthless battles, and thosecking in strength would only be throwing their lives away by entering the blessednds.

    1. The way this servant addressed him is rather vague. It could mean leader or branch leader of a society, so I kept it ambiguous for now. ?

    2. Xue Yi is Sir Blood Shirt. Most likely, it¡¯s his name, but it also means blood shirt, so it can get a little confusing. ?

 Chapter 80 - Dumb as a Pig

    <h4>Chapter 80 - Dumb as a Pig</h4>

    Time flew by, and before long, the day of the opening of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land had arrived.

    Dragon Mountain Peak:

    This ce sat at the crossroads of Spring Autumn Sect, Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Mountain River Sect, and Burning Incense Valley. None of the sects could im this area.

    Legend had it that an ancient divine dragon, wounded and weary, had once passed through this ce. It had bled over the area, giving rise to the present-day Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    Whether this tale held any truth was a mystery, but it was undeniable that the primeval qi here was more tumultuous than in any other ce.

    In addition to the chaotic primeval qi, numerous spatial rifts had appeared near the mountain''s summit.

    No one knew whaty beyond these rifts.

    Behind them were possibly barren ruins or a lush paradise. However, there was a ny-nine percent chance that the violent spatial storms would tear apart anyone entering the rifts.

    The four great sects had discovered the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land a hundred years ago by chance.

    Beyond a particr spatial rifty a miniature world, a blessednd teeming with resources. Given its location, it was named the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    Under the lead of the Outer Sect Master Zhuo Bufan and several outer sect elders, Chen Fan and the other top 10 outer sect disciples rode a flying ship and arrived at the Dragon Mountain Peak.

    The flying ship slowly descended.

    There were already quite a number of people present on the Dragon Mountain Peak.

    Judging from their attire, it seemed there were three groups, each representing one of the other great sects.

    Those with mountains and rivers embroidered on their uniforms were from the Mountain River Sect.

    Those with an incense burner embroidered on their uniforms were from Burning Incense Valley.

    Finally, those with clouds and swords embroidered on their uniforms were from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    Chen Fan and the others were also wearing simr uniforms. A divine door was embroidered on their chests, depicting two contrasting scenes, one of spring and the other of autumn.

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d personally lead the group here this time. What a rare sight!¡± The chaperones of the three great sects greeted Zhuo Bufan, seeing him and his group disembarking from the flying boat.

    Zhuo Bufan smiled and said, ¡°I had nothing better to do, so I thought I might as well follow them here and take a look. I didn¡¯t expect the other three great sects to have arrived first.¡±

    The leading elder of the Mountain River Sect was Cai Chixia, known for his short temper despite his advanced age and formidable strength.

    The leading elder of Burning Incense Valley was a striking middle-aged woman with a gentle countenance that seemed to exude an ethereal aura, as if she were enveloped in mist, resembling an immortal. Her name was Yu Shengyan.

    As for the leading elder of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Leng Feng, his demeanor matched his name, akin to an unyielding block of ice that wouldn¡¯t thaw even after millennia. Such aloofness was typical of sword practitioners, known for their cold and proud dispositions. [1]

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, since your Spring Autumn Sect is here as well, let¡¯s not dy things any further. Let¡¯s work together and open up the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land,¡± Leng Feng said coldly, his tone as cold and sharp as a sword.

    Zhuo Bufan remained unruffled by Leng Feng''s demeanor, fully aware of his character.

    ¡°Brat, it turns out you¡¯re a disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect!¡± a cold voice interjected.

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Chen Fan said inly, having noticed Wang Tengfei long before.

    ¡°Very good. I''ve been searching high and low for you, but it was as if you had vanished from the world. So you¡¯re a disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect. Great!¡±

    Wang Tengfei¡¯s eyes were cold, and so was his tone.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Leng Feng asked coldly.

    Wang Tengfei answered, ¡°Elder Leng, here''s what happened. A month ago, I went to World¡¯s End Pavilion to bid on the Realm Breaking Pill on my cousin¡¯s behalf, only to be unexpectedly robbed by this brat...¡±

    ¡°Oh? Something like this actually happened.¡±

    Leng Feng''s gaze turned as sharp as a sword, and he looked toward Zhuo Bufan. ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, one of your disciples has shamelessly plundered a Realm Breaking Pill from our sect''s disciple like amon bandit. You must provide an exnation to our Floating Cloud Sword Sect for this matter!¡±

    ¡°Oh ho, what a guy you are, Chen Fan. You''ve truly shamed our Spring Autumn Sect by pilfering others'' treasures like a bandit. You¡¯re not worthy to be our sect¡¯s disciple. Sect Master, I propose we cripple Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation and hand him over to Floating Cloud Sword Sect for appropriate retribution. Our Spring Autumn Sect must never allow such scum to tarnish our reputation.¡±

    Chen Changfeng spoke out before Zhuo Bufan could utter a word, expressing his righteous indignation.

    ¡°Sect Master, I believe Chen Changfeng''s words ring true. Scoundrels like Chen Fan bring disgrace and dishonor to our Spring Autumn Sect. We must administer severe punishment,¡± added the Jade-Faced yboy, He Junyang, with a cold smile.

    Meanwhile, Zhong Li, Wang Tengfei, and the others looked on at Chen Fan with cold smiles.

    Zhuo Bufan¡¯s expression turned ugly.

    Though initially trivial, this situation had now been blown out of proportion by the others, turning into a source of ridicule for the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The fact that a disciple of the righteous path had resorted to banditry to acquire treasures would indeed be a matter of shame for the sect if it were to spread.

    ¡°Chen Fan, what is the truth of this matter?¡± Zhuo Bufan inquired sternly, fully aware that he couldn''t simply ept Wang Tengfei''s one-sided ount and condemn Chen Fan outright.

    ¡°A bunch of idiots!¡± Chen Fan scoffed, regarding Chen Changfeng, He Junyang, and the others as mere buffoons. He shifted his gaze toward Wang Tengfei, who wore a smug expression, and said, ¡°And you, you''re the biggest fool of them all! ''Dumb as a pig'' suits you perfectly, don''t you think?¡±

    ¡°What, you dare call me ¡®dumb as a pig?!¡¯¡± Wang Tengfei¡¯s cold smile froze in anger.

    Chen Fan calmly said, ¡°Considering you ''dumb as a pig'' is already me being generous. Making up lies in front of others... Do you think everyone here is an idiot and you are some genius mastermind?¡±

    ¡°And what do you mean, your Realm Breaking Pill? Are all Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples idiots like you? Simply inquire at the World''s End Pavilion, and you''ll discover who won the bid. Yet here you are, shamelessly iming it as your own. Have you no shame?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words caused Wang Tengfei¡¯s face to flush red like a pig¡¯s liver.

    ¡°Chen Fan, what exactly happened?¡± Zhuo Bufan asked softly.

    ¡°Reporting to Sect Master. A month ago, the World¡¯s End Pavilion held an auction featuring a Realm Breaking Pill as its centerpiece. However, Lin Ba from the Watermoon City¡¯s Lin n ultimately won it.¡±

    ¡°Afterward, Lin Ba and his group intercepted me and Senior Sister Qin Yao, demanding we hand over the Fire Spirit Chalcedony we had bought. Naturally, I was unwilling toply, and in the ensuing confrontation, I ended up killing Lin Ba''s group. Then, Wang Tengfei¡¯s group jumped out, trying to be the oriole behind the mantis, but ended up getting injured by this disciple and fled.¡±

    Chen Fan recounted the events sinctly. ¡°Sect Master, a simple inquiry at the World''s End Pavilion will reveal the truth about the Realm Breaking Pill.¡±

    ¡°Oh, is that right?¡±

    Zhuo Bufan''s eyes gleamed as he turned to Leng Feng, whose expression had soured. ¡°Elder Leng Feng, your disciple has his version of events, and mine has another. Mere words won''t resolve this matter. In my opinion, we should dy the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land opening and first rify this issue. Let¡¯s each send a disciple from our great sect to the World¡¯s End Pavilion to find out the truth. What do you think?¡±

    Leng Feng¡¯s expression became iparably ugly. He nced at the visibly anxious Wang Tengfei and swiftly reached a conclusion.

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, this matter is just a simple misunderstanding. There¡¯s no need to disrupt our harmony over such a small matter. Now that everyone¡¯s here, we should quickly open the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land without wasting time on insignificant issues,¡± Cai Chixia of the Mountain River Sect interjected, seeking to mediate the situation.

    1. Leng Feng literally means cold edge ?

 Chapter 81 - Blessed Land Opens

    <h4>Chapter 81 - Blessed Land Opens</h4>

    ¡°You are mistaken, Elder Cai. This isn¡¯t a trivial matter. It rtes to our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s reputation. We need to get to the bottom of this matter.¡±

    ¡°Elder Cai, would you have also chosen to ignore such a matter if it had urred within your sect?¡± Zhuo Bufan said calmly.

    The four great sects did not have an amicable rtionship; they were always inpetition with each other.

    The Spring Autumn Sect would have undoubtedly humiliated the Floating Cloud Sword Sect if their positions were reversed.

    This matter could not be easily resolved.

    ¡°Keke, instead of wasting time here arguing, Sect Master Zhuo, Elder Leng, your two great sects should immediately send an elder to World¡¯s End Pavilion to find out the truth,¡± said Burning Incense Valley¡¯s Yu Shengyan with a carefree smile.

    Leng Feng¡¯s expression grew increasingly ugly, while Wang Tengfei¡¯s heart was in turmoil.

    He cursed himself inwardly for attempting to distort the truth in such a situation. Now, Chen Fan had exposed his weakness.

    ¡°Do say something, Elder Leng. If it turns out that my sect''s disciple has lied, I, Zhuo Bufan, will not tolerate it. I¡¯ll cripple his cultivation in front of everyone and hand him over to your Floating Cloud Sword Sect for appropriate action!¡± Zhuo Bufan said coldly, putting pressure on Leng Feng.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Suddenly, Leng Feng pped Wang Tengfei and said icily, ¡°You fool, how dare you stir trouble here. After returning from the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, scram back to Floating Cloud Sword Sect and contemte your actions at the Hundred Sword Cliff. You¡¯re not allowed to leave the sect until you reach the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    After getting pped by Leng Feng, Wang Tengfei saw stars and tasted fresh blood.

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, let us join forces and open the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land without further dy,¡± Leng Feng said coldly.

    Zhuo Bufan didn¡¯t expect Leng Feng to be so decisive and directly p Wang Tengfei.

    Since it would be inappropriate to dwell on this matter now, he nodded and said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do it.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan, huh? I remember you now. You¡¯d better pray that we don¡¯t meet inside the blessednd.¡±

    Wang Fuchen red at Chen Fan; his tone was indifferent, but it carried an unmistakable threat.

    This time, the Floating Cloud Sword Sect had really disgraced themselves.

    ¡°I¡¯m very much looking forward to it.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled faintly, showing no fear.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Wang Fuchen snorted coldly, suddenly emanating a powerful aura that made the surrounding air churn wildly.

    His aura vanished soon, but this brief disy made the hearts of many disciples, including Chen Fan, pound with shock.

    Wang Fuchen was truly strong. He was likely on the verge of reaching the Yuanfu realm. If he so chose, he could make the final breakthrough immediately.

    He hadn''t advanced because doing so would disqualify him from entering the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    The disciples of the other three great sects felt a sense of unease.

    If Wang Fuchen advanced to the Yuanfu realm immediately after entering the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, he would undoubtedly pose a threat to the other three great sects¡¯ resource shares.

    A dark shadow momentarily loomed over the minds of Zhuo Bufan, Yu Shengyan, and Cai Chixia.

    <i>Wang Fuchen is indeed formidable. He seems a tad stronger than even Sir Blood Shirt. He must have condensed primeval force inside him.</i>

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, feeling the weight of the situation.

    ¡°Alright, disciples from the four great sects who are entering the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, gather here and prepare to enter.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan¡¯s status was the highest here, so he made the announcement loudly and clearly.

    Forty disciples from the four great sects came to the cliff''s edge.

    ¡°Now, open the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land!¡± Zhuo Bufanmanded, striking out with a beam of primeval force. Leng Feng, Yu Shengyan, and Cai Chixia channeled their primeval force and released three beams of light simultaneously, merging and rushing into a spatial crack at the cliff''s edge. The crack began to stir and expand, forming a pitch-ck vortex.

    ¡°Jump!¡±

    Zhuo Bufan shouted coldly.

    Following hismand, everyone leaped into the vortex and vanished from sight.

    Before Wang Fuchen jumped, he red at Chen Fan again and said with killing intent, ¡°I¡¯ll definitely kill you in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land!¡±

    Zhong Li, Chen Changfeng, and the others also looked at Chen Fan, each with the same thought. <i>The Dragon Mountain Blessed Land will be your grave, Chen Fan!</i>

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help butugh on the inside.

    He knew that this trip would be dangerous, as many people, including disciples from his own sect, wanted his life.

    However, it remained uncertain whose life would ultimately be imed.

    ¡°Be careful, Xiaofan, Yaoyao!¡± Qin Changkong warned, looking worried.

    Chen Fan being targeted by Wang Fuchen was an ominous sign. To be marked by a half-step Yuanfu realm expert made this journey exceedingly perilous for Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan and Qin Yao nodded and jumped off together.

    Soon, the forty disciples from the four great sects followed suit, jumping into the vortex.

    Zhuo Bufan waved his robe sleeves, condensing his primeval force into a mirror that revealed the events within the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    The elders of the four great sects gathered around the primeval mirror to observe the situation inside.

    ......

    Dragon Mountain Blessed Land:

    The area was expansive, with a clear blue sky and a lush environment teeming with trees, the melodies of birds, and the fragrance of flowers.

    Numerous silhouettes materialized out of thin air, scattering across the blessednd. These were the disciples of the four great sects.

    The positions of those who entered the blessednd through the vortex were randomly decided.

    The lucky onesnded next to spiritual herbs, while the unlucky fellowsnded in the maws of beasts.

    Within the heart of the foresty a pool spanning several mu in size. In its depths lurked a ferocious crocodile demon beast. [1]

    The sky above the pool rippled, and a figure materialized, descending into the water.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    The crocodile demon beast, catching sight of the falling figure, leaped out of the pool, jaws agape, ready to strike.

    The neer was undeniably unlucky.

    Martial artists in the Qigong realm couldn¡¯t even move in the air, and even Qi Grandmasters could only do so briefly.

    Furthermore, it was impossible for them to do so while plummeting suddenly, let alone for someone who wasn''t a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°What the heck, so unlucky!¡±

    After passing through the vortex and being sent here, Chen Fan still felt disoriented when he smelled a foul wind blowing toward him.

    He quickly spotted the gaping maw filled with razor-sharp teeth, making his scalp prickle.

    If he didn''t regain his senses quickly, he would likely be the crocodile demon beast''s next meal.

    ¡°Golden Origin Palm!¡±

    Chen Fan promptly unleashed his primeval qi with a swift palm strike.

    Blood sprayed from the beast''s mouth as Chen Fan used the recoil to propel himself into the air, executing a somersault beforending on the shore, unsteady.

    1. Mu is a Chinese unit for area. 15 mu = 1 hectare = 2.47 acres ?

 Chapter 82 - Ginseng Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 82 - Ginseng Fruit</h4>

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    Chen Fan''s palm had provoked the ferocious nature of the crocodile demon beast. The attack had made it bleed, split its skin, and torn its flesh. In the pool, its mighty tail twisted, propelling its massive figure toward the shore.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    The crocodile demon beast unleashed a water ball from its gaping maw¡ªit exploded as soon as it was mere inches away from Chen Fan.

    The water droplets scattered in all directions like steel marbles with a terrifying force behind them.

    Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi surged, forming a shield of primeval qi to protect him.

    These water droplets, harder than steel marbles, collided with the primeval qi shield, producing loud banging noises. The shield developed cracks from the repeated impacts; fortunately, it held firm, not breaking apart.

    ¡°Roar!¡±

    Seizing the opportunity, the crocodile demon beast leaped up and struck out with its tail. With a loud boom, Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi shield shattered.

    The crocodile¡¯s tail whipped toward Chen Fan¡¯s head like an iron whip. If it hit, even his brain matter would spatter.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned cold.

    He was getting bullied by a crocodile demon beast right after entering the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. How embarrassing would it be for him if news of it spread?

    His arms puffed up as if his tendons turned to steel and his bones to iron, and he unleashed a punch. It collided with the crocodile¡¯s tail; in just a move, he had turned its tail into a bloody mess.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t let up after gaining the advantage. Using his arm like a knife, he struck down at the crocodile''s head, decapitating the crocodile demon beast and making fresh blood spray everywhere.

    After finishing off the crocodile demon beast, Chen Fan took a deep breath.

    As fresh air entered his lungs, Chen Fan¡¯s eyes gleamed in wonder. ¡°The heaven and earth primeval qi in here is so rich! It¡¯s definitely four to five times thicker than the outside world!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder this ce is called a blessednd. If one were to establish themselves as a ruler of this mountain and cultivate here, their rate of improvement would be several times faster. It could even rival the cultivation speed of demonic cultivators!¡±

    The atmosphere in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land was saturated with primeval qi.

    Inhaling it could prevent illness for ordinary people and provide a refreshing and invigorating experience.

    For martial artists, thisnd was a sanctuary for cultivation¡ªa sacred realm.

    ¡°Listen up, disciples of the four great sects. Your mission is to seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in the ck Sea Demon Cave. As for the Ice Jade Snow Lotus¡¯ exact location, you must discover it on your own.

    ¡°Remember, once you obtain the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, refrain from stashing it in your storage pouch or ring. Anyone viting this rule will face immediate elimination.

    ¡°You have fifteen days to train in the blessednd. After that, the possessor of the Ice Jade Snow Lotus will emerge as the ultimate victor and receive it as their reward!¡±

    From the tform at Dragon Mountain Peak, Zhuo Bufan''s voice reverberated throughout the blessednd via the primeval mirror, reaching everyone inside with rity.

    ¡°ck Sea Demon Cave, Ice Jade Snow Lotus...¡±

    Chen Fan fell into deep thought after hearing Zhuo Bufan¡¯s announcement.

    Prior to entering the blessednd, Zhuo Bufan had provided them with information about the situation within, including details about the ck Sea Demon Cave.

    Situated in the northwest region of the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, the ck Sea Demon Cave resided within a desert, with the ck Sea nestled within its expanse.

    This ind sea, epassed by desert, was vast and fed by numerous underground rivers, rendering it a sacred ground for demon beasts.

    Almost all the demon beasts in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land treated the ck Sea as a holynd.

    As for the ck Sea Demon Cave, it was the sanctum within the holynd. Within it dwelled a formidable ck Flood Dragon, rumored to be as powerful as a cultivator in the Yuanfu realm, one of the strongest of its kind.

    For their trip to the blessednd, the leaders of the four great sects had set a mission: to acquire the Ice Jade Snow Lotus from the ck Sea Demon Cave. Undoubtedly, this was a challenging task.

    Not only would venturing into the ck Sea expose them to attacks from demon beasts, but confronting the ck Flood Dragon within was truly perilous

    Although not true dragons, ck Flood Dragons possessed a trace of dragon bloodline, elevating them to a regal status among demon beasts. Their strength and power far surpassed those of human martial artists at the same cultivation level.

    Nevertheless, the ultimate reward was an Ice Jade Snow Lotus, a testament to the great generosity of the four great sects.

    A treasure of such high caliber, even a single petal of the lotus, would be an invaluable asset if sold on the market. It could potentially establish a martial n.

    <i>For now, I should only focus on advancing my cultivation. With my current strength, seeking the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in the ck Sea Demon Cave would be like seeking death. </i>

    <i>To emerge as the ultimate victor, I must be a Qi Grandmaster. Eighth level won''t suffice; I have to be a Qi Grandmaster!</i>

    Chen Fan calcted in his mind.

    Securing the Ice Jade Snow Lotus was no simple task. A tier two ck Flood Dragon, about as strong as a Yuanfu realm expert, guarded it in the ck Sea Demon Cave. It could easily kill Chen Fan.

    Additionally, there was the looming danger presented by Wang Fuchen, Zhong Li, and others.

    ¡°I can advance to the eighth level quickly. First, I should look for some demon beasts to kill and further condense the primeval qi in my dantian before attempting the breakthrough.¡±

    Aftering up with a n, Chen Fan jumped off therge tree, scurrying through the forest.

    Momentster, the sound of trees snapping came from the forest ahead, apanied by a noxious odor and a chilling breeze.

    A Green Flower Giant Python emerged, its massive form spanning fifty to sixty feet, thicker than a water pail, and capable of dwarfing any Golden Scaled Dragon Python.

    The Dragon Mountain Blessed Land nurtured people and fostered demon beasts.

    This Green Flower Giant Python stared coldly at Chen Fan with its triangr eyes, emitting a mournful hiss before lunging toward him, exuding a putrid stench.

    Chen Fan swiftly evaded like a phantom, channeling power into his fist and delivering a direct blow to the Green Flower Giant Python, obliterating it.

    Tier-one demon beasts under the ninth level weren¡¯t a match for him.

    Chen Fan swiftly traversed the forest, actively emitting his aura, attracting the attention of the demon beasts within.

    He was on a killing spree.

    Chen Fan ughtered these demon beasts, each encounter honing his primeval qi.

    Leopards, tigers, lions, giant ants, and numerous other ferocious demon beasts all fell to Chen Fan''s prowess.

    Three dayster, Chen Fan reached a slope and peered into the valley below. His eyes suddenly narrowed.

    ¡°Ginseng Fruit!¡±

    Beneath the slope grew an ancient tree bearing a fruit resembling a baby. It was white as jade and exuded a refreshing scent.

    The Ginseng Fruit did not bestow immortality or could revive the dead. However, it offered martial artists at the eighth level a hundred percent chance of bing a Qi Grandmaster.

    Moreover, the Ginseng Fruit was also very beneficial to demon beasts. It could greatly increase a demon beast¡¯s intelligence and allow them to speak the humannguage.

    <i>This is great! I¡¯m about to advance to the eighth level, and with this Ginseng Fruit, my chances of bing a Qi Grandmaster will increase significantly. It will also save me a lot of time. The heavens are truly on my side.</i>

    Chen Fan thought, a look of joy gracing his face.

 Chapter 83 - The Cunning Green Scaled Python

    <h4>Chapter 83 - The Cunning Green Scaled Python</h4>

    ¡°Demon beasts guard all spiritual flowers and fruits. Let¡¯s see where the demon beast guarding this Ginseng Fruit is...¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t rush to pick the Ginseng Fruit. Instead, he carefully surveyed the valley, searching for the hiding ce of the guarding demon beast.

    ¡°Over there!¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes narrowed as he spotted an inconspicuous underground cave near the Ginseng Fruit. It was a python''s den.

    ¡°I should first lure out the guarding demon beast and take a look.¡±

    Chen Fan didn''t act impulsively. He picked up a random rock from the ground, enveloped it in primeval qi, and threw it. It struck arge stone in the valley below, shattering it.

    As he had expected, a ferocious giant python with green scales sprang out from the hole.

    ¡°Green Scaled Python, a tier-one, eighth-level demon beast!¡±

    Chen Fan breathed a sigh of relief.

    Luckily, it was a tier-one, eighth-level demon beast. If it had been a tier-one, ninth-level demon beastparable to a Qi Grandmaster¡ªit wouldn''t have been easy for him to seize the Ginseng Fruit.

    Chen Fan strolled out confidently.

    The Green Scaled Python noticed Chen Fan and raised its upper body. Its green eyes stared at him coldly, and it abruptly said, ¡°Human, what are you trying to do by barging into my territory?¡±

    It had spoken in the human tongue!

    Chen Fan was surprised, but he quickly adapted to the situation.

    This exined why the python hadn¡¯t consumed the mature Ginseng Fruit¡ªit had already consumed one. That had greatly increased its intelligence and gave the python the ability to speak the human tongue.

    ¡°Green Scaled Python, you¡¯ve already eaten a Ginseng Fruit. How about giving me this one?¡± Chen Fan said, smiling.

    ¡°No way!¡±

    Upon realizing Chen Fan was eyeing the Ginseng Fruit, the Green Scaled Python quickly took an offensive stance. ¡°This Ginseng Fruit is reserved for the Sir ck Flood Dragon of the ck Sea Demon Cave. Any human or demon who wants this Ginseng Fruit has to die!¡±

    ¡°Human, I advise you to leave quickly and notmit any mistakes. Otherwise, I don¡¯t mind devouring you!¡± The Green Scaled Python flickered its red tongue, threatening Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan approached with a friendly smile and remarked, ¡°It seems negotiation is out of the question. You¡¯ve gained great intelligence and transformed into a demon spirit. You might even be a humanoid in the future. Considering all that, I wouldn¡¯t have killed you had you offered me the fruit. However, since you''ve chosen the path of demise, I must oblige.¡±

    The Green Scaled Python, infuriated, retorted, ¡°Human, you¡¯re seeking death!¡± It attacked with a snake made of water, which corroded the air as it darted toward him.

    Chen Fan retaliated with a palm strike, executing the Golden Light Palm to deflect the venomous water snake.

    Swift as a ghost, Chen Fan materialized in front of the Green Scaled Python. A brilliant light shed, followed by a thunderous boom as his sword descended upon the python.

    With a ng, sparks flew everywhere. Chen Fan felt a powerful recoil through Killing Wind.

    ¡°What tough scales!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s face sank slightly.

    Killing Wind was a grade-one weapon capable of rending iron and slicing a hair vertically. Still, he had failed to even scratch the python.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die, human, you know that!? That sh hurt! I will devour you!¡±

    The Green Scaled Python was furious.

    Although the green scales remained unscathed, the sheer force behind Chen Fan''s sh inflicted excruciating pain upon the serpent.

    The massive serpent turned swiftly, hurtling its head toward Chen Fan like a lightning bolt.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan jumped to evade it, making the Green Scaled Python shatter a boulder in frustration.

    However, nearly instantaneously, its tail swept toward where Chen Fan wouldnd, creating a whirring sound in the air.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t evade in time, and the python''s tail struck him.

    He felt like a mountain had struck him, making his organs, blood, and qi dance chaotically. He flew back tens of meters before he managed to regain his bnce.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you one more chance, human. Leave my territory right now, and I can spare your life. Otherwise, you will surely lose your life!¡±

    The Green Scaled Python still stood between the fruit and Chen Fan. Even though it now had the advantage after sending Chen Fan flying, it refrained from attacking further and opted to make menacing threats instead.

    Taking a deep breath, Chen Fan activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to recuperate. His turbulent qi and blood settled, and his organs returned to their positions. A steely glint appeared in his eyes.

    ¡°You little reptile, you¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    Chen Fan stomped his feet,unching forward like a stone catapulted from a siege engine.

    ¡°You damned human, looks like you won¡¯t give up until you are dead!¡± roared the enraged Green Scaled Python. Opening its jaws wide, it spewed pitch-ck smoke as if to obscure the sun and the sky.

    This toxic smoke contained a highly lethal poison. If someone under the Qi Grandmaster realm inhaled this smoke, it would wreak havoc on the victim''s heart, leading to a gruesome demise.

    Under the control of the Green Scaled Python, the poisonous smoke turned into a poisonous, shrouding Chen Fan like it had a mind of its own, wanting to poison him to death.

    A hint of fear shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He shook, and a powerful gust emanated from him, dispersing the encroaching poisonous fog.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Since the python now had to gather the toxic smoke again, Chen Fan used the opportunity to rush toward the Green Scaled Python.

    A sly gleam appeared in the Green Scaled Python''s eyes as if its crafty scheme had seeded. It quickly released another burst of poisonous fog and sneered, ¡°You fell for my trap, human. This is my true trump card.¡±

    The Green Scaled Python had disyed remarkable cunning, as shrewd as a fox.

    It had anticipated that Chen Fan would evade his poisonous fog and rush toward it. The second poisonous fog was its real attack, showcasing a level of strategy beyond typical demon beasts and more reminiscent of cunning human martial artists.

    However, that wasn¡¯t too surprising. After all, this Green Scaled Python had consumed a Ginseng Fruit and had gained great intelligence, sessfully cultivating into a demon spirit. Its spiritual intelligence was no different from a human¡¯s, perhaps even more cunning than some inexperienced people.

    ¡°Hmph, little reptile, you thought I didn¡¯t expect that?¡±

    However, Chen Fan soared into the air, skillfully somersaulting over the approaching poisonous fog andnding behind the Green Scaled Python.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God¡¯s Strength!¡±

    Chen Fan puffed up. His arms were like steel and had boundless strength. The punch roared fiercely as it collided with the back of the Green Scaled Python''s head.

    <i>Kachi!</i>

    Chen Fan exerted his full might, channeling a force of 9,000 jin, equivalent to an attack from a Qi Grandmaster.

    Despite the formidable defense of the Green Scaled Python, the overwhelming strength prated it. The punch had struck the back of the serpent''s head, instantly breaking its neck.

    ¡°O, it hurts. It hurts so much. My neck... You damned human, you wretched human, you broke my neck!¡± bellowed the Green Scaled Python in agonizing pain.

    Its neck was its most vulnerable spot. Since it was now broken, the python couldn¡¯t gather any of its strength. ¡°Die, reptile!¡±

    Chen Fan punched repeatedly, bombarding the Green Scaled Python¡¯s head, shattering its mind.

    ¡°You damned human. King ck Flood Dragon won¡¯t let you off...¡±

    Before sumbing to death, the Green Scaled Python managed to utter a final threat in an attempt to intimidate Chen Fan.

 Chapter 84 â€“ Robbery

    <h4>Chapter 84 ¨C Robbery</h4>

    After ying the Green Scaled Python, Chen Fan took the Ginseng Fruit and ced it in a red sandalwood box to prevent it from losing its medical properties.

    Rather than consuming the fruit immediately, he nned to wait until he reached the peak of the eighth level to be a Qi Grandmaster in one breakthrough.

    This would grant him unrestricted ess to the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, including the challenging ck Sea Demon Cave.

    ¡°This Ginseng Fruit Tree...¡±

    Contemting the idea of uprooting the Ginseng Fruit Tree and taking it back to his n, Chen Fan eventually dismissed the notion, realizing the tree would likely wither during the half-month storage in his ring.

    <i>I should find a safe ce to break through to the eighth level.</i>

    Chen Fan thought, his eyes gleaming with determination as he set off to search for a secure location.

    ......

    Another side of the blessednd:

    The disciples of the four great sects were earnestly scouring for treasures.

    Two disciples from the Mountain River Sect stood on a broken cliff, nestled amidst verdant mountains and crystal-clear waters. They were both at the eighth level but gazed fearfully at Wang Fuchen, dressed in white. Their faces were ashen and tinged with despair.

    ¡°Wang Fuchen, do you truly intend to eliminate all of us? You may be a Qi Grandmaster, but if we fight for our lives, we can severely injure you. You won''t have an easy time in the blessednd then!¡± said the youth with a square face. He was at the peak of the eighth level; although he seemed furious, he was actually hiding his fear.

    Wang Fuchen shook his head and smiled faintly. ¡°Weaklings like you dare enter the blessednd and threaten me with a fight to the death? How funny. How bold of you! Let me illustrate the expertise of a true master.¡±

    ¡°No! I¡¯m willing to give you all my treasures and belongings. Please let me go,¡± begged the other person, already terrified and trembling.

    ¡°Hehe, would I, Wang Fuchen, care about that measly fortune of yours?¡±

    Wang Fuchen smiled disdainfully and said, ¡°It¡¯s about time. I¡¯ll send you on your way. When you reincarnate, consider gaining some wisdom. Before hastily pursuing benefits, assess your capabilities first.¡±

    Hatred rose in their hearts, and their courage grew alongside their ferocity. They unleashed their strongest martial arts simultaneously, attacking Wang Fuchen.

    However, just as they made their moves, Wang Fuchen swept over like a breeze. A sense of loathing for the heavens, the earth, and people blossomed in the air. After two swift movements from him, the two disciples stiffened, and the blood streaks on their necks quickly expanded.

    ¡°Consider it a favor that I sacrificed you to my Hate Asunder Sword Technique.¡±

    Wang Fuchen said as he swiftly departed.

    Outside the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, Cai Chixia and the other elders of the Mountain River Sect saw this scene through the primeval mirror and let out cold harrumphs. They red at Leng Feng and the other Floating Cloud Sword Sect elders.

    ¡°This Wang Fuchen is a little too overbearing,¡± said Cai Chixia, noticing Leng Feng¡¯sck of reaction.

    Leng Feng''s expression seemed frozen as he turned to her sharply and stated calmly, ¡°If they¡¯re weak, then they should have stayed in the sect to cultivate. Murders are normal in the blessednd. Moreover, trying to steal Wang Fuchen''s treasure with insufficient strength is foolish. They deserved to die.¡±

    ¡°Leng Feng, you...¡±

    Cai Chixia had a short temper and became furious after hearing that.

    ¡°What, does Elder Cai feel indignant and want to exchange moves with me?¡± Leng Feng raised his eyebrow, exuding a fierce sword intent.

    ¡°Who¡¯s afraid of you!¡± Cai Chixia stood up, ready to start a physical altercation.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough, you two!¡±

    Zhuo Bufan''s powerful aura suppressed their hostility.

    ......

    Another part of the blessednd:

    Mountain River Sect¡¯s Xuan Feixue looked indifferently at the frozen demon beasts around him. He felt a slight tremor, and an invisible force shattered the frozen demon beasts.

    ¡°What a great source of ice and cold. After I absorb it, my Hornless Ice Dragon primeval qi''s cold powers will be even stronger!¡±

    Xuan Feixue pointed his finger, and a streak of primeval qi, sharp as a sword, broke through the frozen pool. A hornless dragon condensed from primeval qi appeared, rushing into the frozen pool.

    <i>Boom boom!</i>

    The water in the frozen pool churned violently.

    The hornless dragon absorbed the power of cold within it, feeding it back to Xuan Feixue. Frost formed on his hair and eyebrows, and the cold intent emanating from him grew stronger.

    ......

    In an area where sand swirled wildly in the sky, Burning Incense Valley¡¯s Chu Qing fought against several incredibly ferocious desert ape demons.

    Golden light erupted from Chu Qing; each of his punches could shatter a mountain. Engaging ferocious demon beasts head-on, he relied solely on sheer physical strength, every strike making direct contact.

    ¡°Haha, not bad, you bunch of demon apes. Put some more effort into it. Have you not eaten? Your punches are as gentle as a breeze; they can¡¯t even scratch my itch.¡±

    Chu Qingughed out loud, golden light scattering.

    The demon beasts roared in fury, seeminglyprehending Chu Qing''s words. They gleamed with a golden metallic sheen as their punches carrying wild killing intent struck Chu Qing. The impact resembled sand twisters colliding with one another, generating sparks.

    ......

    Somewhere in a forest: Chen Fan was still searching for a secure location.

    ¡°Hmm... what are those sounds?¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan halted and looked ahead. Then, he walked over stealthily.

    Stealthily advancing, he discovered three figures encircling a small, dark yellow entity in a clearing.

    This tiny creature kept screeching anxiously, scurrying around the clearing in an attempt to flee.

    Surprisingly, it was a mountain ginseng that had transformed into a spirit. It looked like a human, standing just over a foot tall. It had lived for a long, long time, radiating a glistening light and brimming with abundant heaven and earth primeval qi.

    <i>Wang Tengfei!</i>

    Chen Fan observed, noting that one of the three figures was Wang Tengfei.

    <i>Hehe, count yourself unfortunate to have crossed paths with me, Wang Tengfei. This mountain ginseng is mine now.</i>

    Chen Fan smirked coldly, choosing not to reveal himself immediately. His n was to let Wang Tengfei''s group capture the mountain ginseng before making a move to steal it.

    ¡°A mere mountain ginseng thinks it can escape?!¡±

    Wang Tengfei suddenly leaped, and his primeval qi transformed into an inescapable, enveloping the panicky mountain ginseng.

    ¡°Haha, you little thing, you''ve actually be a spirit? Your medical properties must be even better now. With this, I will surely be a Qi Grandmaster soon!¡±

    Wang Tengfeiughed triumphantly, holding the mountain ginseng in his hand.

    ¡°Congrattions, Junior Brother Tengfei. Consuming this mountain ginseng will surely make you a Qi Grandmaster sooner!¡±

    The other two Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples immediately ttered him.

    Though not weak with their eighth-level cultivation, they paled inparison to Wang Tengfei''s peak eighth-level cultivation.

    ¡°Just you wait, Chen Fan, you little bastard. The day I be a Qi Grandmaster will be the day you will die. I''ll peel off your flesh piece by piece to satisfy my hatred!¡±

    Wang Tengfei clutched onto the mountain ginseng tightly, his face contorting into a twisted, hideous expression, exuding an intense aura of animosity.

    ¡°Hehe, is that so? Hands up, everybody, for this is a robbery!¡±

    A voice filled with mockery rang after Wang Tengfei¡¯s words.

 Chapter 85 - Fierce Battle

    <h4>Chapter 85 - Fierce Battle</h4>

    The mocking voice startled Wang Tengfei and the other two. Looking in the voice¡¯s direction, they saw someone approaching them.

    The neer was none other than Chen Fan.

    ¡°Little bastard, I never imagined you would have the audacity toe to my doorstep uninvited!¡±

    Wang Tengfei red at Chen Fan with intense hostility. If looks could kill, Chen Fan would have perished a thousand times over from his gaze.

    ¡°Pleased to see me?¡±

    Chen Fan slowly approached with a smile. ¡°Wang Tengfei, fate has a funny way of bringing enemies together. To think you would be the first human I would meet in this vastnd¡ªwhat a coincidence.¡±

    ¡°Now, I¡¯ll give you a choice. Hand me the mountain ginseng in your hands, and I will give you about thirty minutes to run away. How about it?¡± Chen Fan said, still smiling

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡± one of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples eximed angrily.

    ¡°Damn you!¡± added the other disciple.

    Chen Fan''s confident tone and audacious threat infuriated the two disciples. Despite being only at the peak stage of the seventh level, he spoke as if he were certain of victory, humiliating them.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you chose to forgo the path to heaven and havee knocking on the gates of hell. That suits me just fine. After bing a Qi Grandmaster, I wanted to humiliate and kill you. However, it seems my dreams wille to fruition sooner!¡±

    Wang Tengfei said ferociously, his tone filled with killing intent.

    The two disciples from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect swiftly closed in on Chen Fan, creating a strategic encirclement.

    At Wang Tengfei''smand, they would unleash a joint assault on Chen Fan, intending to inflict a painful and humiliating death upon him.

    ¡°Kill me? Do you even possess the strength for it? Did you forget ourst fight? I made you eat dirt!¡± Chen Fan ignored the two other disciples, focusing solely on Wang Tengfei.

    The ¡°eat dirt¡±ment stirred something within Wang Tengfei; his aura pulsated with intensity.

    The memory of losing to Chen Fan before he could even use his weapon haunted him as the most degrading experience.

    ¡°Little bastard, don''t think I''m the same as I was over a month ago. Consuming this mountain ginseng will make me a Qi Grandmaster!¡±

    ¡°Moreover, I am apanied by two senior disciples at the eighth level. Did you honestly expect a one-on-one confrontation? What a ludicrous notion,¡± Wang Tengfei said grimly.

    ¡°Do you really think those idiots by your side can do anything? Even if you had two more, it would be futile!¡± Chen Fan retorted arrogantly, his aura surging and dominating the surroundings. "Wang Tengfei, today I''ll im both the mountain ginseng and your life. Prepare to meet your end!"

    Chen Fan swiftly lunged forward, unleashing a thunderous sword light and seemingly cleaving Wang Tengfei in half. However, it was merely an afterimage.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A furious shout echoed from another direction, and Wang Tengfei materialized.

    A radiant light akin to the sun emanated from his hand. Numerous streaks of sword qi materialized, converging to form the Great Sun Universe Divine Sword.

    In every direction, the celestial sword wove a realm of des, a cosmos of swords, covering an area of a thousand steps.

    ¡°Little bastard, today you''ll learn that my power far surpasses what it was a month ago. After killing you, I''ll hunt down your n, and your kin will suffer because of you.¡±

    Wang Tengfeiid down a sword formation, controlling it with his voice.

    Sound waves came humming from his nose, harmonizing with the sword qi to carve through the void, manifesting a sword grave that embodied the essence of the de.

    ¡°Great Sun Universe, Paragon of Time Immemorial.¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Hundreds, if not thousands, streaks of sword qi swept out majestically, swiping directly at Chen Fan.

    The other two alsounched their attacks at Chen Fan simultaneously. Swords shed, unleashing sword qi that cleaved through the bnce of yin and yang.

    ¡°Hundred Mountain Splitting Heavy Sword!¡±

    One of the two disciples, anky youth at thete stage of the eighth level, shouted angrily.

    Brandishing a broadsword as wide as a door, he repeatedly shed with both hands, conjuring densely packed sword shadows that assailed Chen Fan from all directions.

    ¡°River of Fluttering Sleeves, Sleeves Universe Sword!¡±

    The other disciple was a short and fat youth in the middle stage of the eighth level. His wide sleeves produced an endless stream of sword qi, resembling a river washing the starry sky.

    The three disciples synchronized their attacks in a triangr formation. Even if Chen Fan could defend against one direction, he couldn¡¯t fend off the other two.

    However, Chen Fanughed out loud. Surprisingly, he charged toward the two disciples, immersing himself in their sword qi onught. Simultaneously, primeval qi spewed out from his back, turning into two heads and four arms.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, break it!¡±

    Chen Fan had already practiced this quasi-profound tier martial art to major mastery, so he could create two heads and four arms.

    A powerful gust apanied his punch, violently distorting the space. Endless explosions reverberated as Chen Fan neutralized the two disciples¡¯ attack easily.

    ¡°Thunderp Sword, sh!¡±

    Chen Fan became a blur, simultaneously appearing in front of the two disciples. Killing Sword cut down with the momentum of a lightning bolt, triggering a series of explosive bursts.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    The two men looked horrified and quickly tried to counterattack.

    However, Chen Fan dealt with their attacks with a single sh.

    They would have been cleaved in half if they hadn''t retreated quickly enough. They narrowly escaped death.

    Suddenly, Wang Tengfei''s attack closed in from behind Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan leaped into the air, evading the imminent threat. Like an eagle swooping down, he descended upon Wang Tengfei.

    For an instant, Wang Tengfei felt as if his life was hanging in the bnce.

    Chen Fan''s intent was clear¡ªhe hade to im Wang Tengfei''s life. The notion was both unsettling and terrifying, especially for a genius at the peak stage of the eighth level. It symbolized his mind and will being overpowered.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Wang Tengfei roared, activating the Great Sun Universe Sword again.

    ¡°Sword Shakes the World, Devouring True Essence.¡±

    Primeval qi materialized into a ring of swords, resembling a zing sun that bathed the dense forest in an intense glow. The nearby trees caught fire, burning vigorously, and even the ground beneath felt the heat.

    The sword qi, taking on the shape of a fan, swirled toward Chen Fan, creating a fierce wind imbued with razor-sharp edges that enveloped the entire space.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God¡¯s Strength, suppress and crush it!¡±

    Chen Fan faced the oing onught without fear.

    Suspended mid-air, ancient wild elephant silhouettes manifested behind him.

    He puffed up as qi surged through his tendons and bones, emanating a potent, oppressive aura.

    He unleashed a barrage of punches, striking over a hundred times. The shadows of his fists umted to form a mountain.

    The fan was shattered by the terrifying fists, disintegrating into nothingness.

 Chapter 86 - Killing Wang Tengfei (Part 1)

    <h4>Chapter 86 - Killing Wang Tengfei (Part 1)</h4>

    ¡°Haha, you sound so full of yourself, Wang Tengfei, but it seems you''ve indeed be more formidable.¡±

    Chen Fanughed, engaging in fiercerbat as the battle progressed.

    With his sword in one hand and his fist poised in the other, he created a swirling aura around him andunched a fierce attack at Wang Tengfei.

    <i>Tchhh!</i>

    Killing Wind pierced through the sword qi, ripping apart the zing sun swords and thrusting toward the center of Wang Tengfei''s eyebrows.

    Wang Tengfei shook violently and bellowed, ¡°Little bastard, you dare!¡±

    The Great Sun Universe Sword in his hand spun rapidly,pleting over ten thousand rotations in the blink of an eye. ¡°Sword Ring of Celestial Heavens, Shine Upon the World!¡±

    In an instant, the Great Sun Universe Sword rose again, resembling the sun and casting a red glow over all the mountains and rivers, creating a spectacr scene under the sword qi¡¯s influence.

    The zing sun sword qi rose thirty feet above Wang Tengfei¡¯s head before fiercely colliding with Chen Fan¡¯s Killing Wind.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The twobatants were forcibly separated. Wang Tengfei staggered backward, struggling to regain his bnce, while Chen Fan was sent flying but managed to regain his footing andnd safely.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    As soon as hended, he sensed sharp, dangerous auras approaching from behind.

    The other disciplesunched a joint assault with fierce expressions, showing no mercy as they aimed for Chen Fan¡¯s vital points as if they held an irreconcble grudge against him.

    Even so, Chen Fan didn¡¯t turn around. He executed Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, summoning two heads and four arms around him.

    The two heads turned back, and the four arms struck out crazily, bombarding them with the six great moves of the martial art, causing the air and the sword qi to explode.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Chen Fan easily overpowered the two opponents.

    Their sword qi shattered, and the shockwaves struck them, violently crushing into their chests like a sledgehammer.

    Having already been wounded by Chen Fan, this new assault tore their injuries wider, revealing their internal organs.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan swiftly pivoted and lunged forward.

    With a swoosh, he threw Killing Wind behind him.

    Streaks of sword qi swirled around Killing Wind, transforming into thunderous lights crackling in the air as if delivering the judgment of doomsday.

    The stout, short youth failed to evade in time. Chen Fan directly cleaved him from the front, the wound charred from the thunderous power as he stood frozen in ce.

    <i>One man down.</i>

    The other youth at thete stage of the eighth level confronted Chen Fan''s attack head-on.

    A violent force pushed against him, breaking the arm that had the sword. He flew back like a loose kite, vomiting blood, and ended up crashing on the ground, raising a cloud of dust.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t n on sparing him. He condensed a Vajra Seal, asrge as a millstone, and sent it hurtling toward his target.

    With a resounding boom, the slender youth became a flesh puddle.

    In the blink of an eye, two eighth-level experts were defeated, leaving only Wang Tengfei.

    ¡°You killed them!¡±

    Wang Tengfei trembled with anger at the sight of his two senior brothers'' deaths.

    ¡°You don¡¯t say!¡±

    Chen Fan spat sarcastically, wasting no time. Stomping his feet, he rose into the air like a roc spreading its wings, pouncing toward Wang Tengfei.

    ......

    ¡°Terrific. Your Spring Autumn Sect disciples are terrific!¡±

    Outside the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, Leng Feng and other Floating Cloud Sword Sect elders witnessed Chen Fan''s actions. Sword energy immediately surged from them.

    ¡°Hehe, Leng Feng, what''s the meaning of releasing your sword intent? What, are the disciples from your Floating Cloud Sword Sect untouchable?¡±

    Zhuo Bufan had yet to get a word in before Mountain River Sect¡¯s Cai Chixia spoke up, unable to hold himself back.

    He nced sideways at Leng Feng and mocked, ¡°If they¡¯re weak, then they should stay in the sect and train. Murders are normal in the blessednd. Moreover, they dare act so arrogantly when they¡¯re that weak. They deserved to die.¡±

    Cai Chixia had been feeling quite discontent since earlier, as Wang Fuchen had killed two elite disciples from the Mountain River Sect''s outer sect.

    Leng Feng had resolved his fury with cold derision. So, Cai Chixia seized this opportunity to mock him in return, even though it wasn''t a disciple from his sect who had in the disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    ¡°Shut up, Cai Chixia!¡± Leng Feng raised his voice coldly.

    ¡°Leng Feng, it''s not up to you to decide whether I speak!¡± Cai Chixia¡¯s fiery temper red up at once.

    Was Leng Feng qualified to tell him to shut up?

    ¡°Elder Leng, the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is a battleground. Your sect''s disciples can only me their weakness for falling to Chen Fan.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan nced at Leng Feng indifferently. A powerful aura emanated from him, immediately freezing the air in heaven and earth.

    Sensing the pressure radiating from Zhuo Bufan, all the present elders felt a sense of unease.

    Although they were all Yuanfu realm experts, Zhuo Bufan, as the Outer Sect Master of the Spring Autumn Sect, possessed a cultivation level higher than theirs¡ªthe Core Formation realm.

    Leng Feng harrumphed coldly and withdrew his aura. He red at Chen Fan, whose image was reflected in the primeval mirror, an icy glint flickering in his eyes.

    ......

    In the intense fight between Chen Fan and Wang Tengfei, only one coulde out alive.

    There was no room for mercy.

    It could even be called a fight between a lion and a tiger¡ªa magnificent spectacle.

    ¡°Rotating Universe, Shaking Heaven and Earth!¡±

    While he was shing with Chen Fan, Wang Tengfei¡¯s murderous aura was on full disy, revealing a ferocious appearance. It seemed he could break through the nine heavens and make his sword resound.

    The Great Sun Universe Sword in his hand shook violently, letting out an incredibly long cry.

    A radiant brilliance emanated from the sword, transforming it into a semnce of a fire spirit.

    As his sword qi interwove, countless sword qi mes appeared in his surroundings, densely packed and hot enough to melt gold and iron.

    That sword qi prated the rocks on the ground, liquifying the boulders intova.

    Wang Tengfei¡¯s mastery of the Great Sun Universe Sword had reached a new high.

    Under hismand, it had achieved a near-perfect state, allowing him to harness the essence of the great sun in the sky and wield the scorching sun sword energy to vanquish evil.

    The shing of the two was truly a battle to the death.

    Wang Tengfei¡¯s expression turned ruthless as he executed the Quaking Earth Shaking Mountain technique.

    His killing intent seemed near absolute as his attack swept out in all directions.

    Sword qi enveloped the area, moving freely. Primeval qi sword light, resembling a fire dragon, coiled around Killing Wind, trying to engulf it.

    ¡°Die, you little bastard!¡±

    Wang Tengfei fought with true desperation as he wielded the sword qi. ¡°I lostst time because I hadn¡¯t mastered my Great Sun Universe Sword technique, not because I was weaker. Having absorbed a Fire Jade Crystal and cultivated with the essence of the sun, I have achieved near-perfect mastery. I can even contend with Qi Grandmasters. After I kill you, my inner demon will be vanquished. Upon consuming the mountain ginseng, my qi will soar to the heavens, propelling me to the rank of Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    ¡°Qi Grandmaster? You¡¯re simply delusional!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly. Facing Wang Tengfei¡¯s attacks, his blood surged endlessly.

    Behind him, the silhouettes of ancient wild elephants flung their trunks, plucking the stars. They gathered all their strength in Killing Wind.

    Chen Fan breathed deeply, drawing the Great Sun Universe sword energy into the depths of his dantian.

    In his dantian, the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace was taking birth on his qi sea.

    If he were to examine himself, he would see his primeval qi rotating,pressing, and condensing deep within his dantian, transforming into the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

 Chapter 87 - Killing Wang Tengfei (Part 2)

    <h4>Chapter 87 - Killing Wang Tengfei (Part 2)</h4>

    Chen Fan absorbed some Great Sun Universe sword qi into his dantian with each exchange of moves. He would then cast these mes of the great sun into what appeared to be the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    Wang Tengfei had created the Great Sun Universe Sword''s sword intent by condensing the essence of the zing sun. His mastery of the technique had reached the highest realm where the man and the sun would grow endlessly.

    Created by an ancient master, this martial art was immensely powerful.

    However, Chen Fan could devour portions of the Great Sun Universe Sword¡¯s sword qi, transforming it into mes to form the Heaven Seizing Furnace and elerate its embryo formation.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The sh between Killing Wind and the Great Sun Universe Sword rang out again. The primordial qi in Chen Fan''s dantian spun vigorously; since he was already at the peak of the seventh level, he sensed faint signs of a breakthrough to the next level.

    ¡°Dragonize!¡±

    Even after fighting so long, Wang Tengfei couldn''t defeat him. He failed to subdue Chen Fan despite having already emptied his arsenal of techniques. Meanwhile, Chen Fan¡¯s ferocity only increased as the battle progressed. It astounded Want Tengei, and he felt his killing intent growing stronger.

    The stronger Chen Fan became, the more in danger Wang Tengfei felt.

    If he were defeated this time, no one would be there to save him, and it would only lead to death.

    Everyone called him a genius in the Floating Cloud Sword Sect. He didn''t want to die, especially not at the hands of Chen Fan and not at such a young age.

    ¡°This ends here.¡±

    Wang Tengfei''s resolve seemed unshakable. His aura erupted violently, resembling a raging sea.

    Rings of me, forged from primeval qi, encircled his head, resembling the radiant halo of the great sun. He had activated some mysterious technique.

    ¡°Omni Fire God, Great Sun¡¯s Fire Dragon, Spirit of the zing Sun,e out and kill this evil demon for me!¡±

    Inside his halo, his primeval qi transformed into a divine dragon. The mighty dragon tried to break free from the confines of the void.

    From the halo, the dragon¡¯s head first broke free from the void. The dragon had fiery red eyes, a sun emblem on its forehead, zing horns, and scales resembling burnt red steel, exuding a destructive force. It seemed to want to destroy everything in the world.

    Omni Fire Dragon!

    ¡°Chen Fan, you little bastard, take pride in forcing me to use my secret technique and summon the Omni Fire Dragon. I had to practice bitterly for a long time to learn this technique; now, prepare to be thoroughly obliterated by its might!¡±

    Wang Tengfei''s deration was ruthless, devoid of any human emotion.

    The Omni Fire Dragon emerged from the halo, transforming into a torrent of raging mes hurtling toward Chen Fan.

    Its passage ignited the air, creating a pervasive sense of overwhelming pressure. It seemed like a divine dragon from the sun had descended, intent on incinerating everything in its path.

    Chen Fan used his full strength, and three heads and six arms materialized behind him. The total of eight arms all unleashed palm strikes and punches. The force of his attacks produced a wild wind whistle and could kill peak eighth-level martial artists.

    Still, he failed to withstand the onught of the Omni Fire Dragon; he had to retreat repeatedly.

    The Omni Fire Dragon was like a veritable god of fire, wielding mes so formidable that they could incinerate anything, threatening to burn down their very universe.

    Chen Fan''s relentless attacks and primeval qi were rendered futile against the overwhelming might of this terrifying entity.

    The might of the attack told Chen Fan that this attack was likely Wang Tengfei¡¯s strongest trump card, hisst resort. It was something he had reserved for his direst moments.

    After all, he didn¡¯t use this technique back in the suburbs of Qingyang County City. This technique was so formidable that it could threaten even Qi Grandmasters.

    ¡°This secret technique shouldn¡¯tst for long. I do not need to fight it¡ªI just have to oust it. Once the time limit of this attack is up, he will be a wless tiger, left at my mercy.¡±

    Chen Fan instantly decided not to fight him head-on for now.

    Although he could exchange blows with Qi Grandmasters and fight it, he would suffer injuries as a result.

    And being injured in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land was anything but good.

    Chen Fan executed Ghostly Shadow Steps with all his might, dodging the Omni Fire Dragon¡¯s attack.

    However, the Omni Fire Dragon¡¯s powers have already filled the surroundings.

    The air felt as heavy as steel, pressing him from all sides. Under this destructive aura, this forest clearing now resembled a sea of mes.

    To use Ghostly Shadow Steps, Chen Fan drove his primeval qi to his feet.

    However, he crashed into the air that was hard as steel, producing loud rumbling noises.

    This became a very dire situation, as he couldn¡¯t dodge while he was down.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan unleashed his most powerful martial skill¡ªUndefeated King¡¯s Fist. It was a quasi-profound tier technique that surpassed the might of Thunderp Sword, Thousand Hand Seal, and Golden Light Palm.

    Simultaneously, the primeval qi in his dantian surged, creating a protective shield around him.

    With six steel-like arms, he attacked the Omni Fire Dragon. His aura was fierce and overbearing, and his qi could prate steel.

    The hundreds of feet long Omni Fire Dragon, resembling a massive snake, destroyed Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi arms when they shed.

    ¡°Fire Dragon of the Great Sun, destroying the heavens and the world. The sun, moon, and stars. Fall!¡±

    <i>Voom!</i>

    Wang Tengfei¡¯s cold voice rang out once more.

    He pushed his cultivation technique to its limit, merging with the Omni Fire Dragon and surpassing his boundaries. He was determined to see Chen Fan fall to his secret technique.

    <i>Crack! Crack!</i>

    The Omni Fire Dragon destroyed everything. Even Chen Fan¡¯s grade-one treasure, Killing Wind, started melting under the fire dragon¡¯s w. It soon struck Chen Fan, ruthlessly prating his primeval qi shield. A wisp of the Omni Fire Dragon¡¯s powers entered him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan was immediately set aze by the Omni Fire Dragon''s powers, burning his meridians and even reaching the depths of his dantian. On the outside, he looked like a marshmallow on a bonfire.

    ¡°Die! Leave this worldpletely! No matter how strong you are, you will be ashes soon! Hahahaha!¡± Wang Tengfei strode toward Chen Fan, seemingly inplete control of the situation.

    However, as soon as he took his first step, the mes enveloping Chen Fan went out abruptly.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Deep within Chen Fan¡¯s dantian, that tiny dot¡ªthe Heavenly Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo¡ªswelled up. Engraved on it were runes that resembled the gods and devils.

    Each rune contained an aura sharp as an edged weapon, and there were even hints of spirits wailing.

    After entering Chen Fan, the streak of Omni Fire Dragon¡¯s powers, by some stroke of luck, helped manifest the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo ahead of expectations.

    ording to the information he gained from his enlightenment, Chen Fan knew that to form the embryo, he had to first be a Qi Grandmaster.

    However, he had formed the embryo much earlier. And it was all thanks to his opponent¡ªWang Tengfei. It reminded him of the other time his opponent, Chen Changfeng, had helped him reach the seventh level.

 Chapter 88 - Killing Wang Tengfei (Part 3 of 3)

    <h4>Chapter 88 - Killing Wang Tengfei (Part 3 of 3)</h4>

    The tform on Dragon Mountain Peak:

    ¡°Good! Our Floating Cloud Sword Sect''s talented disciple lives up to expectations!¡±

    The primeval mirror had shown the mes engulfing Chen Fan, prompting the elders of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect to erupt into cheers.

    Earlier, Chen Fan had in two Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples, stoking their anger.

    However, Wang Tengfei''s swift use of his secret technique to subdue Chen Fan allowed them to release their pent-up anger and feel relieved.

    ¡°Not bad, not bad at all. However, he hasn''t fully mastered this secret technique. Even so, it¡¯s more than enough to deal with someone like Chen Fan,¡± Leng Feng remarked loudly, ncing sideways at Zhuo Bufan and the other elders.

    ¡°Hoho! I think this is already quite an achievement for Wang Tengfei to have reached this level in just three months," a bearded elder behind Leng Feng chimed in with a smile.

    ¡°He dared to kill our sect''s disciples. People like him need to be taught a lesson. They deserve to die!¡± a ck-robed elder dered icily, his tone sharp and expression equally grim.

    Meanwhile, Zhuo Bufan and the others gazed intently at the primeval mirror. Standing behind Zhuo Bufan, Qin Changkong¡¯s hands were clenched tightly into fists, his face etched with deep concern.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    Qin Changkong prayed in his heart, hoping Chen Fan was fine.

    ¡°Haha, Sect Master Zhuo, this Chen Fan must be quite the genius of your Spring Autumn Sect to have made it as one of the top 10 disciples with just a seventh-level cultivation. But Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is rife with bloodshed and ughter. No one can be med for his demise. You¡¯ll have to keep your temper in checkter, Sect Master Zhuo,¡± Leng Feng said, drawing the ire of the elders from the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Zhuo Bufan said inly, ¡°Please rest assured, Elder Leng, I¡¯m not one to lose myposure over something like this.¡±

    He had just mocked Leng Feng for losing hisposure earlier; naturally, Leng Feng picked up on the hidden meaning in his words.

    He harrumphed coldly and said, ¡°Is that so? Sect Master Zhuo, watch closely as my sect¡¯s genius kills the geni¡ª¡±

    However, Leng Feng abruptly stopped as if someone had grabbed his neck.

    Thanks to the primeval mirror, everyone could see the mes enveloping Chen Fan had abruptly extinguished!

    ......

    Deep in his dantian, the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace was slowly spinning, emitting an aura that seemed capable of refining all things. Even gods and devils would be refined if thrown into the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    Chen Fan had to be a Qi Grandmaster to form the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace. However, the ¡°help¡± from Wang Tengfei had helped him create it ahead of time.

    Of course, this embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace wasn¡¯t perfect, but it was enough to suppress and refine the powers of the Omni Fire Dragon.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    The triumphant smile on Wang Tengfei instantly froze.

    His eyes widened as he watched the mes on Chen Fan extinguish, a look of disbelief showing on his face.

    ¡°Alright, Wang Tengfei, it''s your turn to face death!¡± Chen Fan dered in high spirits, addressing Wang Tengfei politely as he strode forth.

    ¡°Impossible. How is it possible for you to...!¡±

    Dumbfounded, Wang Tengfei struggled toprehend how his mes had been snuffed out. Why was Chen Fan waspletely fine?

    He had painstakingly cultivated the Omni Fire Dragon, a secret technique, for three months using the essence of the zing sun to learn it.

    It became his ace, instilling him with the confidence to confront a Qi Grandmaster without fear.

    The Omni Fire Dragon could reduce even a small mountain to ash.

    Yet, against Chen Fan, it proved utterly futile!

    Wang Tengfei couldn¡¯t believe his eyes, which had turned bloodshot.

    How could his trump card fail? Without hesitation, he summoned the Omni Fire Dragon again

    ¡°Omni Fire Dragon, bring heaven and earth to ruins!¡±

    Wang Tengfei pointed with his finger, and the Omni Fire Dragon rushed out once more.

    However, the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace within Chen Fan''s dantian erupted, devouring and refining vast amounts of the Omni Fire Dragon''s energy, transforming it into a zing me within the furnace.

    ¡°How is this possible? My Omni Fire Dragon is unmatched. What sinister methods are you using to devour its energy?!¡± Wang Tengfei eximed, finally noticing the irregrity. ¡°Nothing is impossible!¡±

    Asrge amounts of the dragon''s energy slipped away, Chen Fan coldly smiled and struck out with the Undefeated King''s Fist.

    The space quaked, and the greatly weakened Omni Fire Dragon was no match for Chen Fan, crumbling into feeble mes that scattered.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Wang Tengfei coughed up blood, his gaze filled with terror.

    Even his trump card failed him. How could he possibly fight Chen Fan in his greatly weakened state?

    ¡°Damn it, I must kill you! Come out, mountain ginseng!¡± Wang Tengfei''s expression turned fiendish as if he had lost his mind.

    Wang Tengfei had destroyed the mountain ginseng¡¯s spirit earlier, so he nned to consume it and be a Qi Grandmaster right now.

    ¡°The mountain ginseng is mine! You think you can eat it? Dream on!¡±

    Chen Fan would never give such an opportunity to Wang Tengfei.

    Chen Fan''s primeval qi coalesced into a sword crackling with thunderous power as he darted forward. With a sh, he cleaved Wang Tengfei¡¯s palm.

    ¡°Ah...¡±

    A miserable cry resounded through the area.

    Chen Fan reached out, his primeval qi forming a that captured and brought the mountain ginseng to him.

    Finally, Wang Tengfei grasped the gravity of the situation. If he continued to waste time here, he would likely lose his life.

    His legs trembled as he prepared to make a desperate dash for safety

    ¡°Still thinking of running? It¡¯s toote!¡±

    Chen Fan moved swiftly, unleashing a powerful punch with the Undefeated King''s Fist. The space quaked, caving inwards.

    The surrounding air immediately became as rigid as steel. Wang Tengfei felt like he had fallen into a swamp, making it nearly impossible for him to move.

    ¡°No, break, break for me!¡±

    Wang Tengfei was consumed by panic.

    His primeval qi erupted wildly as he tried to escape the restraints and flee. He nned to seek out Wang Fuchen and enlist his help for revenge.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A fierce glint shed in Chen Fan''s eyes as he reached out, condensing primeval qi into a ten-meter-long spear.

    With a swish, more qi whirled around the long spear and shot through the air.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Wang Tengfei couldn''t withstand even a single attack. Blood gushed out as his protective primeval qi broke.

    Chen Fan approached, enveloping Wang Tengfei in ayer of primeval qi, rendering him immobile. ¡°Wang Tengfei, the victor bes the king and the vanquished, the viin. Will anyone save you now? Do you have anything to say!?¡±

    ¡°I''ve lost to you again. I''m a genius of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect. I can''t ept this, I refuse!¡± Wang Tengfei''s disheveled appearance and bloodied state portrayed his misery. His meridians were severely damaged.

    ¡°Refuse? Do that, but you will still die. This is the price you pay for crossing me!¡±

    As Chen Fan¡¯s voice fell, his palm struck Wang Tengfei¡¯s skull.

    Wang Tengfei immediately lost all signs of life. Chen Fan paid no heed, swiftly looting the valuables from the three disciples before vanishing into the dense forest.

 Chapter 89 - Eighth Level Qigong

    <h4>Chapter 89 - Eighth Level Qigong</h4>

    ¡°That imbecile!¡±

    Leng Feng erupted in curses upon witnessing Chen Fan''s ying of Wang Tengfei through the primeval mirror, his sword qi seething.

    ¡°Damn, why did it turn out like that?¡±

    ¡°How is this possible? Why did the mes around him suddenly vanish?¡±

    The elders of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect wore grim expressions, their confusion evident in their clouded eyes.

    mes had consumed Chen Fan¡ªa sure victim of their fiery embrace. Yet, inexplicably, the mes had extinguished, leaving the onlookers bewildered.

    They observed no peculiar urrences around Chen Fan, nor did they witness him produce any artifact to douse the mes.

    The mes simply snuffed out as if under Chen Fan''smand.

    Wang Tengfei''s demise further stoked their ire.

    Though only an outer sect disciple, Wang Tengfei was a prodigy of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, destined for the Yuanfu realm and possibly even the Core Formation realm.

    Now, however, they had to watch as Chen Fan killed their rare genius.

    Deaths weremon in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, and one''s demise could only be attributed to their weakness. However, that didn¡¯t stop them from resenting Chen Fan.

    ¡°Haha. Good, very good! He didn¡¯t bring any disgrace to our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s honor!¡±

    The elders of the Spring Autumn Sect were all smiles.

    ¡°This Chen Fan is quite impressive.¡± Even Zhuo Bufan couldn¡¯t help but praise.

    While they, too, didn¡¯t know why the mes had abruptly died, it was of little consequence to them. What mattered was that Chen Fan had killed Wang Tengfei and brought glory to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Leng Feng and the other elders had sneered at them not long ago, making them very unhappy.

    ¡°Haha, Elder Leng, wasn¡¯t Wang Tengfei a genius from your sect? Sigh... Killings are indeedmonce in the blessednd. You can¡¯t me anyone for his death. Don¡¯t ignore the rules and try to kill our sect¡¯s Chen Fan in the future, Elder Leng,¡± Zhuo Bufan retorted evenly, echoing Leng Feng''s earlier mockery.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Leng Feng snorted coldly, unable to say a word.

    ......

    In an inconspicuous cave:

    Chen Fan threw the storage pouches of Wang Tengfei¡¯s gang on the ground and quickly sat down in the lotus position. His primeval qi surged, steadily expanding.

    While battling Wang Tengfei, he had managed to form the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo and increase his cultivation. He could no longer suppress his cultivation level after devouring so much of the Omni Fire Dragon¡¯s energy.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Within his dantian, his primeval qi surged like the ebb and flow of the tide, tumultuous waves crashing against the shore.

    Deep in his dantian, the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo spun slowly, steadily expanding, progressing toward its ultimate form as the genuine Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    It was merely an embryo, akin to a newly sprouted seed, yet to grow its roots, let alone mature into a towering tree that pierced the heavens.

    Chen Fan took out the mountain ginseng and swallowed it in a few bites.

    This mountain ginseng had already evolved into a spirit. It contained at least a millennium''s worth of medical efficacy.

    It became a boiling hot fluid as soon as it entered his mouth. It flowed into his stomach and exploded like a bomb, unleashing a torrent of energy that surged through his limbs and skeleton.

    Given Chen Fan¡¯s current umtion, he could advance to the eighth level without the mountain ginseng. However, he nned to advance to the middle or thete stage in one go.

    <i>Rumble.</i>

    The mountain ginseng¡¯s medical properties rushed through Chen Fan like a flood. The primeval qi seeping out from the surface of his skin grew more turbulent than usual, and the medicinal fragrance of the mountain ginseng even permeated from his pores.

    Chen Fan hurriedly activated Heaven Seizing Art to guide the flood of medicinal efficacy into cirction.

    The condensed primeval qi streamed and pooled in his dantian, increasing its volume. It was akin to a bucket already brimming with water now being flooded with an endless flow. The bucket could no longer contain it all.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    After a while, Chen Fan shook violently. A fierce surge of qi erupted, sending nearby rocks flying and making the cave tremble momentarily.

    Finally, Chen Fan¡¯s aura was at the eighth level.

    However, the mountain ginseng¡¯s medical property wasn¡¯tpletely refined yet. Chen Fan continued to circte his divine art, and his aura did not cease its ascent.

    Eighth level, early stage...

    Eighth level, middle stage...

    It only came to a stop after it reached thete stage of the eighth level.

    ¡°Phew.¡±

    Chen Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a mouthful of turbid qi.

    Boundless strength filled his limbs and skeleton. His dantian had expanded, amodating his surging primeval qi.

    ¡°Eighth level,te stage...¡±

    Chen Fan clenched his fist, feeling like he could shatter a mountain with a punch. He mumbled, ¡°I wonder what the results will be like if I face a Qi Grandmaster now?¡±

    He could exchange a few moves with Sun Wenshan at the seventh level, but he was no match for him. He had ended up injured and fleeing.

    Now, his cultivation level has risen explosively. The gap between him and Qi Grandmasters had shrunk by a lot.

    With a shout, he thrust out both palms, unleashing his cultivation.

    Electricity crackled around him, a result of being struck by lightning and his primeval qi mutating, acquiring the power of lightning.

    His cultivation buzzed, and a faint image of a smelting furnace condensed above his head.

    This smelting furnace resembled cauldrons and furnaces but was neither. Lava tossed and rolled within, while magma surged and receded. The wailings of gods and devils also seeped out as if the smelting furnace was refining them.

    ¡°The Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo has evolved a step further.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart beat faster.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace was the best cultivation method.

    Once formed, the furnace could refine and consume everything. It could plunder vast amounts of primeval qi, the essence of the sun and the moon, and the power of the stars. The furnace could transmute all substances into the origin of his life essence.

    However, Chen Fan still didn¡¯t possess the ability to make the Heaven Seizing Furnace take shape. It was only an embryo for now.

    Nevertheless, the embryo should have only condensed after he reached the Qi Grandmaster realm, yet it had formed ahead of time.

    ¡°If I can condense the true Heaven Seizing Furnace at the Qi Grandmaster realm, I wouldn¡¯t have to fear even Yuanfu realm martial artists. Their primeval force will only nourish me!¡±

    A brilliant light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The capabilities of the embryo were severely limited, and only after the Heaven Seizing Furnace took form could he use all its abilities.

    He didn''t have to worry about anything unless he fought a powerhouse far stronger than him, who could destroy the Heaven Seizing Furnace while fighting him and kill him.

    Moreover, the furnace could refine even his enemies themselves, plundering whatever cultivation they practiced. It would be incredibly heaven-defying.

    A trace of concern flickered in Chen Fan''s eyes as he retracted his cultivation.

    ¡°I wonder how Senior Sister is faring?¡±

    Although Qin Yao wasn¡¯t weak, the disciples of the four great sects here were all top experts of their respective outer sects. Almost all of them were at the eighth level.

    It would be fine if she came across fellow Spring Autumn Sect disciples, but if she encountered people from the other three great sects, they wouldn¡¯t care about her gender or beauty. Everyone was everyone else¡¯s enemy, so they would strike with the intent to kill.

 Chapter 90 - Bolt from the Blue

    <h4>Chapter 90 - Bolt from the Blue</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation had advanced, elevating his strength to a new high and enabling him to dominate the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    ¡°Worrynot Grass. Not bad, not bad.¡± [1]

    Chen Fan spotted a cluster of three-leafed grass ahead and plucked it. It was a clear, emerald-green spiritual herb.

    ¡°Blooddrip Ginseng. Nice. It can instantly propel someone at the sixth level to the seventh level. It¡¯s worth at least a hundred primeval stones.¡±

    After killing a demon tiger with a single strike, Chen Fan stowed away a stalk of blood-red mountain ginseng that seemed to ooze blood.

    ¡°Bright Spirit Golden Crystal. Used to forge grade-two treasures. A tael of it costs a hundred primeval stones, and this weighs at least a jin. That¡¯s a thousand primeval stones.¡± [2]

    Chen Fan drove away the demon beasts gathered on a hill and unearthed a pile of gold-like crystals.

    ¡°Immortal Leaf...¡±

    Chen Fanbed through the area, gathering numerous natural and precious materials for refining treasures, totaling no less than twenty to thirty thousand primeval stones in value.

    <i>I really wish I could stay in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land forever. This ce is truly an enormous treasure trove. Even if one ignores the abundant primeval qi that makes it a cultivation haven, one can¡¯t overlook the numerous treasures and materials here. </i>

    Some of these things might not be very useful to him, but plenty of the fourth- and fifth-level cultivators outside would kill for them.

    There was another reason he didn¡¯t disregard the low-level herbs.

    After fusing with the Bone Spirit me, Qin Yao had already be an Alchemist. Refining pills requiredrge amounts of spiritual herbs, and she could use these herbs to practice.

    ......

    ¡°Hmm, someone¡¯s fighting near the river?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s ear suddenly twitched.

    He swiftly emerged from the trees and raced along the riverbank.

    The river spanned ten miles, its waters raging and crashing against the reefs, with expansive beaches on either side.

    Thendscape featured dense reed bushes, rocky cliffs, varied terrain, and treacherous rapids. Within the river, formidable demon beasts rose and fell.

    As he ran, powerful auras rippled violently from somewhere on the vast beach, reaching Chen Fan. He stopped and saw two Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples ganging up on Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Mu Chen.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples were at the middle stage of the eighth level, and so was Mu Chen. Due to their relentless assault, Mu Chen had wounds deep enough to expose his bones and drenched in fresh blood.

    ¡°Damn it, you really think I¡¯m afraid of you two? If I went all out, you would have to perish with me!¡± Mu Chen threatened fiercely, trying his best to fend off the attacks.

    ¡°Hehe, threatening us? We want to see how you will fight for your life. Phantom Kill!¡±

    One of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples with a mole between his eyebrowsughed coldly. His attacks grew more ruthless and elusive, instantly inflicting a wound on Mu Chen.

    ¡°Haha, go all out, why don¡¯t you? All bark and no bite. Do you think mere words can scare us?¡± The other Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple with a sharp chinughed maniacally.

    They seemingly couldn¡¯t care less about Mu Chen risking his life to confront them, toying with him like cats toyed with rats. They mocked and provoked him to unleash his full power.

    Their fierce sword churned the sand on the ground, reducing gravel to powder.

    ¡°Damn it. Fine, if that''s how it is, I''ll drag you both to hell even if it costs me my life!¡± Mu Chen dered, his expression hardening, his cheeks contorting fiercely.

    His primeval qi erupted, emanating a dangerous aura. A transparent air wave swept out, forcing even the millstone-sized rocks on the ground to roll over.

    A huge sledgehammer appeared above Mu Chen and struck down.

    <i>Bong!</i>

    As the sledgehammer struck down, it shattered the attacks from the two Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples. They both vomited mouthfuls of blood and were forced into a retreat.

    However, just as Mu Chen was about tounch a second attack, he suddenly staggered and spat out arge mouthful of blood, his aura bing chaotic.

    The iron hammer condensed from his primeval qi also crumbled.

    ¡°Haha, is this all you can do when you go all out? That¡¯s not bad, decent against early-stage, eighth-level practitioners, but it''s a joke if you think you can take us down with just that. Spring Autumn Sect is really declining,¡± mocked the youth with a mole between his eyebrows, closing in on Mu Chen step by step.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Suddenly, the sound of wind pierced the air. The heart of the youth with a mole trembled, and he shed out with his sword.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Following an explosion, the youth with a mole had his sword broken in two. Then, his head burst open like a watermelon. He couldn¡¯t even utter a groan before he was killed, his corpse scattered all over.

    This attack was incredible.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple with a sharp chin and Mu Chen were frightened, surveying their surroundings.

    ¡°Who is it? Show yourself!¡± demanded the sharp-chinned youth, wielding his sword with both hands, his expression tinged with fear.

    ¡°It¡¯s me,¡± dered Chen Fan, striding out from the reeds. His formidable aura made the sharp-chinned youth take a few steps back.

    "You dare try to kill a disciple of our Spring Autumn Sect. How audacious of you," said Chen Fan.

    ¡°It¡¯s you!¡±

    The sharp-chinned youth''s pupils shrunk, recognizing Chen Fan.

    After all, Wang Tengfei was pped at the Dragon Mountain Peak¡¯s tform all because of him.

    ¡°Chen Fan.¡±

    Mu Chen felt relief wash over him when he saw Chen Fan. He had thought it was someone from another major sect.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking at Mu Chen.

    Since Mu Chen wasn''t a member of the Heaven''s Alliance, Chen Fan had decided to help.

    He would have simply walked away if it were Yang Feng, He Junyang, or any other Heaven¡¯s Alliance members.

    Mu Chen shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just minor injuries.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. You focus on recovering. I''ll take care of him.¡±

    Chen Fan walked confidently toward that sharp-chinned youth. Histe-stage, eighth-level aura enveloped the youth, and he said, ¡°End your own life. I can¡¯t be bothered with you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura seemed to be suffocating the sharp-chinned youth.

    He wouldn''t have been in such a dire situation if he were facing an ordinary eighth-level martial artist. However, Chen Fan''s strength was akin to that of a Qi Grandmaster. How could he even hope to withstand it?

    ¡°Kill myself? Dream on! It¡¯s do or die!¡± Despite being suppressed by Chen Fan''s aura, the sharp-chinned youth was resolute

    His primeval qi surged as he aimed his sword, forcefully activating his martial art. A sword light shot out, darting toward Chen Fan''s heart like lightning from a hundred steps away.

    ¡°An ant trying to shake a tree? You are overestimating yourself!¡± Chen Fan narrowed his eyes. Extending his hand, he caught the sword light between two fingers.

    ¡°Go.¡±

    With a flick of his arm, the sword light flew back faster, piercing the sharp-chinned youth''s heart.

    ¡°Ugh...¡±

    The sharp-chinned youth swayed. The sword qi eruption had torn his heart apart.

    ¡°Hehe, hehehe, you little bastard, you still have no idea, don¡¯t you... Your senior sister is already... captured by... Senior Brother Fuchen... You¡¯re... dead for sure!¡±

    The sharp-chinned youth fell lifeless as his voice trailed off, a malicious smile lingering on his face.

    ¡°What?!¡±

    Chen Fan was shocked at the news.

    <i>Wang Fuchen has captured Qin Yao?</i>

    "Chen Fan," Mu Chen approached slowly and said, "It''s true. Qin Yao has fallen into Wang Fuchen''s hands."

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Mu Chen''s confirmation hit him like a thunderbolt, leaving him reeling from the shock, hisplexion instantly paling.

    1. Has the same name as Daylilies, but since it¡¯s a spiritual herb, I tranted it literally to distinct it. ?

    2. One tael is 50 grams. One jin is 500 grams. ?

 Chapter 91 - Scarlet Cliff

    <h4>Chapter 91 - Scarlet Cliff</h4>

    Chen Fan had assumed the sharp-chinned youth was simply messing with him.

    However, Mu Chen¡¯s confirmation struck him like a lightning bolt. It sent him reeling, and his face became pale.

    ¡°Where are they now?¡±

    Chen Fan asked, his voice trembling.

    ¡°At the Scarlet Cliff. Wang Fuchen has already spread the word for you to head to the Scarlet Cliff if you wish to save Qin Yao. He¡¯s there waiting for you, but you only have half a day,¡± Mu Chen answered.

    ¡°Scarlet Cliff...¡± Chen Fan mumbled, mentally conjuring a rough map of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land as he prepared to head there. As Chen Fan turned to leave, Mu Chen hastily asked, ¡°Are you really going to save Qin Yao?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± Chen Fan dered firmly without looking back. He was determined to go, even if it meant facing great danger.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? Wang Fuchen is now a Yuanfu realm expert. Even if all of us from the Spring Autumn Sect joined forces, we wouldn''t stand a chance against him. Going to him is like walking into certain death!¡±

    ¡°So what? I¡¯m not afraid of death if it means I can save Senior Sister!¡±

    Chen Fan''s voice rang from afar.

    Mu Chen sighed, watching Chen Fan gradually fade from view.

    Chen Fan saved his life, but it seemed he would never get to repay him.

    Although Chen Fan wasn¡¯t weak, he wasn¡¯t strong enough to fight someone in the Yuanfu realm. Wang Fuchen was already in the Yuanfu realm. It seemed impossible for Chen Fan to rescue Qin Yao from Wang Fuchen''s clutches.

    Moreover, Wang Fuchen had captured Qin Yao to lure Chen Fan into a trap.

    ......

    To the south of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land stood the Scarlet Cliff, surrounded by deep abysses on three sides. Falling from any side would turn anyone into mush, even Qi Grandmasters.

    Many people had gathered on the only path leading to the tform on the Scarlet Cliff, including individuals from all four great sects, and Zhong Li and others.

    Two figures¡ªWang Fuchen and Qin Yao¡ªstood on the Scarlet Cliff¡¯s tform.

    ¡°Say, do you think Chen Fan wille?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know...?¡±

    ¡°Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is huge. Who knows where he is now? Would Wang Fuchen really throw Qin Yao off the cliff if Chen Fan didn¡¯t get the news?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s not possible about that? Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is a ce of training and... death. Lots of deaths. Qin Yao looks decent, but there¡¯s no way Wang Fuchen would be tempted by her beauty.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true. But those from the Spring Autumn Sect sure are useless, aren¡¯t they? Zhong Li and his group are here but aren¡¯t doing anything.¡±

    ¡°What can they even do? Wang Fuchen is now a Yuanfu realm expert. Going up against him is nothing but suicide.¡±

    ¡°This time, the Floating Cloud Sword Sect will definitely take the first ce in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The onlookers discussed the situation spiritedly.

    Zhong Li, He Junyang, Yang Feng, and Bing Ye had also gathered here.

    ¡°Brother Zhong, do you think that little bastard wille?¡±

    He Junyang turned to look into the distance. ¡°The half-day limit Wang Fuchen set is almost up, but there''s no sign of that little bastard anywhere.¡±

    Zhong Liughed coldly and said, ¡°Either way, Wang Fuchen is destined to kill him. If hees, Wang Fuchen will kill him. If he doesn¡¯t, then he¡¯ll go find Wang Fuchen on his own afterward to seek revenge for Qin Yao¡¯s death. So, his death isn¡¯t an ¡®if¡¯¡ªit¡¯s a ¡®when.¡¯¡±

    Yang Feng raised his thumb,ughing. ¡°Brother Zhong, you are so smart. Revealing the connection between Chen Fan and Qin Yao and leaking her location to Wang Fuchen... That bastard Chen Fan will die, and you wouldn¡¯t even have to lift a finger.¡±

    ¡°I would have preferred to kill him myself, but the people outside can see the situation inside the blessednd. Zhuo Bufan''s prohibition on killing one another inside made these indirect methods necessary,¡± Zhong Li said indifferently.

    It turned out that their actions had led to Qin Yao''s capture by Wang Fuchen.

    ¡°That little bastard got off easy. Frankly, I wanted to capture him, methodically strip his flesh, and revel in his wails of agony. That would have felt so good,¡± said He Junyang eerily, licking his lips.

    ¡°Indeed. I also don¡¯t want him to die so easily. When we¡¯re out of the blessednd, find out about his n. Let¡¯s n a happy family reunion in hell for them.¡±

    Yang Feng¡¯s eyes shed with viciousness.

    Suddenly, a stir erupted in the nearby crowd.

    ¡°Look, over there, someone is rushing here!¡± eximed a Burning Incense Valley disciple, pointing into the distance.

    The silhouette in the distance moved with incredible speed. Its size had doubled within moments.

    ¡°That seems to be... Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really him! He¡¯s actually here!¡±

    The crowd saw him clearly as he got closer and immediately recognized him.

    ¡°This little bastard is here.¡± Zhong Li''s group also looked at him, their faces adorned with cold smiles.

    Fueled by urgency, Chen Fan sprinted without pause to reach Scarlet Cliff''s tform. Soon, he saw Wang Fuchen and Qin Yao on the Scarlet Cliff¡¯s tform.

    ¡°Hold it right there. If you wish to save your senior sister, you must go through me first!¡± said a disciple from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect arrogantly. A fierce sword qi simultaneously flew toward Chen Fan.

    Ignoring the onlookers, Chen Fan unleashed a powerful punch, shattering the sword qi. In a swift motion, he appeared before the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple, grabbed his hands, and tore him apart effortlessly. An eighth-level martial artist was dead just like that.

    No words were exchanged, as there was only the inevitable promise of death for those who obstructed his mission to rescue Qin Yao.

    This scene shook the surrounding crowd deeply.

    Initially wearing mocking smiles, the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples were gripped by an icy chill that froze their expressions into masks of fear.

    ¡°Little bastard, you dare kill disciples from my sect in front of me?! How dare you!¡±

    An iparably cold and fierce light shone in Wang Fuchen¡¯s eyes. The formidable aura of a Yuanfu realm expert descended upon Chen Fan, pressing down like a colossal mountain.

    Chen Fan, undeterred, met Wang Fuchen''s terrifying aura head-on, steadily advancing step by step. As he reached the tform, his gaze mirrored the cold sharpness of his adversary. ¡°I¡¯m here. Let my Senior Sister go.¡±

    ¡°Why act so recklessly, Xiaofan? Why did youe!¡±

    Wang Fuchen had sealed Qin Yao¡¯s primeval qi, so she was no different from a mortal now. Chen Fan''s appearance brought tears to her eyes.

    She knew Wang Fuchen''s motive for capturing her¡ªa ploy to force Chen Fan into the open.

    Now, Chen Fan was here.

    Yet, facing a Yuanfu realm expert like Wang Fuchen, could Chen Fan survive?

    ¡°Senior Sister, I¡¯m willing to do anything for you, even if it means sacrificing my life.¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly, looking at Qin Yao.

    Qin Yao shook her head frantically. ¡°No, leave! Quickly leave! I don¡¯t need you to save me!¡±

    ¡°How touching!¡±

    Wang Fuchen smiled coldly.

 Chapter 92 - Taking on Wang Fuchen

    <h4>Chapter 92 - Taking on Wang Fuchen</h4>

    ¡°Hoho, so this is the number one genius of Floating Cloud Sword Sect¡¯s outer sect. Impressive, impressive.¡± Zhuo Bufan impassively watched the scene portrayed on the primeval mirror. His cold words carried a tone that, beneath apparent praise, harbored subtle derision.

    Despite being a Yuanfu realm expert, Wang Fuchen had resorted to using Qin Yao as leverage against Chen Fan. That struck Zhuo Bufan as utterly contemptible.

    Leng Feng and the other elders weren¡¯t fools, either. They naturally understood the hidden meaning behind Zhuo Bufan¡¯s words. Leng Feng replied, ¡°The path of martial arts is inherently ruthless. It has no rules. Everything boils down to might is right.¡±

    ¡°For a disciple of the righteous path, especially one versed in the way of the sword, to act in such a disgraceful manner¡ªhow is it any different from the demonic path?¡±

    Leng Feng responded, his tone chilly, "Sect Master Zhuo exaggerates. Also, didn¡¯t your sect''s disciples help Fuchen capture this girl?"

    ¡°Hmph.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan grunted, opting to remain silent.

    He found Wang Fuchen¡¯s methods very despicable and dishonorable, but he was even more discontent with Zhong Li and his gang¡¯s actions.

    They could see everything happening in the blessednd thanks to the primeval mirror. So, they had a clear view of Qin Yao''s capture orchestrated by Wang Fuchen¡ªall courtesy of Zhong Li''s group.

    After the Outer Sect Grand Competition ended, he had convened the top ten disciples, urging them to unite against external threats within the blessednd and refrain from harming one another.

    Although Zhong Li hadn¡¯t made a move on Chen Fan and Qin Yao, he was using a borrowed knife to kill them. It showcased a level of cruelty that couldn''t be ignored.

    Wang Fuchen was now a Yuanfu realm expert. If nothing unexpected happened, Floating Cloud Sword Sect seemed poised to secure the top position, leaving Spring Autumn Sect, Mountain River Sect, and Burning Incense Valley to vie for second to fourth ce.

    The stakes were immense, with a single rank difference tranting to millions in cultivation resources.

    Rankings would be determined by the number of survivors emerging from the blessednd. Zhong Li''s use of a borrowed knife to harm Chen Fan constituted a grant vition of a major taboo¡ªendangering a fellow disciple.

    ......

    ¡°Wang Fuchen, you want to kill me, right? Well, here I am. Let my senior sister go, and I¡¯ll fight you. Don¡¯t make me look down on you!¡± Chen Fan dered with a cold gaze, fully aware of the likely oue.

    He hade here with a resolute mindset, but he acknowledged that facing Wang Fuchen¡ªYuanfu realm expert¡ªwas akin to courting certain death.

    Had he been a Qi Grandmaster with a functional Heaven Seizing Furnace, he would have stood a chance against such a formidable opponent.

    But now...

    It was certain death!

    ¡°Good! Don¡¯t worry. You are my only target. Since you¡¯re here now, she serves no further purpose.¡± Wang Fuchen waved his arm, and a strong wind swept up Qin Yao, throwing her off the tform.

    ¡°Are you prepared to face my wrath?¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    As Wang Fuchen''s words hung in the air, he felt a fierce wind sweeping at him. A thunderous p echoed, apanied by a chilling, electrifying light sh targeting him.

    Chen Fan had sprung into action the second Qin Yao was free. He had to seize the initiative to even fight someone this overwhelmingly strong.

    ¡°You think that¡¯ll work?¡±

    Faced with Chen Fan¡¯s sneak attack, Wang Fuchen merely smiled with disdain.

    One arm casually tucked behind his back, he lightly swatted the oing sh.

    However, Chen Fan felt like a mountain had struck Killing Wind. Chen Fan''s strike veered off course, and he stumbled to the side in tandem.

    ¡°You are nothing more than an ant trying to shake a tree. I can crush you with just one finger!¡± Wang Fuchen chuckled, punctuating his words by jabbing at Chen Fan with a single finger.

    Primeval qi spewed out from his fingertip, destroying everything.

    Chen Fan immediately dodged to the side but couldn¡¯t save his shoulder from the attack. Fresh blood gushed out from the hole in his shoulder.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan''s eyes burned with cold determination. He used the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist and manifested three heads and six arms behind him, delivering ferocious punches like cannonballs.

    Simultaneously, the Thunderp Sword came into y, lightning streaks crackling as if dragons were ripping the space apart to dominate the world.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. Even Qi Grandmasters are nothing in front of me, let alone someone of your caliber!¡±

    s, Chen Fan''s relentless assault, formidable enough to shock Qi Grandmasters, didn¡¯t pose the slightest threat to Wang Fuchen.

    Gripping the air with his fingers, Wang Fuchen seemed to seize the very fabric of space.

    When he clenched his fist, the surrounding space erupted, disintegrating the four arms conjured from Chen Fan''s primeval qi and obliterating the thunderous power without a trace. None of the attacks could even touch Wang Fuchen.

    ¡°So strong!¡±

    ¡°Yuanfu realm cultivators have a primeval vessel in their dantian that endlessly condenses and refines primeval qi into primeval force. The difference between primeval qi and primeval force is like heaven and earth. A mere wisp of primeval force can crush a substantial mass of primeval qi. They are leagues apart¡ªlike an adult fighting a child.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is at thete stage of the eighth level but has strengthparable to a Qi Grandmaster. So, he isn¡¯t weak, but against someone like Wang Fuchen... The difference is insurmountable.¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    The nearby crowd watched as Wang Fuchen broke down Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious attacks like he was toying with a child, their hearts trembling.

    This was the prowess of a Yuanfu realm expert!

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Wang Fuchen threw out a punch.

    The air instantly exploded, and an invisible shockwave surged wildly, resonating with a deafening roar. Everyone who heard the noise got goosebumps.

    All of Chen Fan''s attacks crumbled in the face of this punch.

    The force of the punch reached him through the air. Chen Fan¡¯s chest caved in, and he flew backward, a spray of fresh blood painting the sky as he spiraled through the air.

    Crushed!

    Crushed mercilessly!

    Chen Fan kept vomiting blood, but his gaze was as fierce as ever. One could even say it had grown more intense.

    Aware of the insurmountable odds against him, he chose to meet his fate with unwavering pride.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan rasped out a single word and charged at Wang Fuchen once more.

    Employing every technique at his disposal¡ªUndefeated King''s Fist, Thunderp Sword, Myriad Elephants Divine Art, and even thetent powers of the Heaven Seizing Furnace''s embryo¡ªChen Fan went all out.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    A resolute spirit that refused to yield, even when confronting the gods above, emanated from Chen Fan. A thunderous roar echoed, apanied by an aura reminiscent of ancient wild elephants trampling across heaven and earth.

    The silhouette of a fierce and overbearing fist instantly enveloped the area, seemingly dominating heaven and earth.

    Sharp streaks of thunderous sword light formed an inescapable, sealing the space.

    Strands of power from ancient wild elephants continued to grow as if poised to crush mountains and rivers beneath their might.

    A powerful aura.

    An unyielding will.

    So what if his opponent was a Yuanfu realm expert? He would fight him all the same.

    ¡°Haha, not bad. With your meager cultivation, you actually have the strength to threaten Qi Grandmasters. You¡¯re pretty good!¡±

    ¡°However, your fate is sealed. You snatched my Realm Breaking Pill, although it''s of little use to me. Moreover, you''ve tarnished the honor of our Floating Cloud Sword Sect. That, I cannot forgive. You must perish, and no one can save you!¡±

    Facing Chen Fan¡¯s frantic attack, Wang Fuchen erupted intoughter, his demeanor exuding extreme arrogance.

    After all, even if this attack could threaten Qi Grandmaster, it was harmless to him¡ªa Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Cut!¡±

    Wang Fuchen only made a simple movement. Drawing his sword, he swung it with seamless precision and sheathed it in one fluid motion.

    An incredibly swift and fierce streak of sword light, capable ofying waste to everything, sliced through the air. It obliterated every martial art technique Chen Fan employed before striking him.

    Chen Fan''s resilient flesh yielded, the wound revealing bone as he was hurled through the air by the devastating sh. His appearance was undeniably wretched.

 Chapter 93 - Fight! Fight! Fight!

    <h4>Chapter 93 - Fight! Fight! Fight!</h4>

    <i>Bang!</i>

    With a thud, Chen Fan crashed onto the ground. His chest now had a gash so big and deep that he looked like a spatchcocked chicken, his bone bare for all to see.

    ¡°Cough, cough.¡± His primeval qi was in disarray; he had a coughing fit, spitting out blood nonstop.

    Despite the severity of his injuries, his gaze retained its unyielding intensity. The light in his eyes refused to diminish, exuding a wild and scary gleam.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan''s miserable appearance, Qin Yao knelt weakly on the ground, hands shielding her face as tears streamed down.

    ¡°Brat, do you regret this?¡± Wang Fuchen said with a faint smile, looking down at Chen Fan.

    Struggling to stand, Chen Fan pressed his lips together and said, ¡°Regret? The only remorse I harbor is my own weakness. If I were stronger, I would have sent anyone who dared bully Senior Sister to hell to repent for their actions!¡±

    ¡°Hehe, quite the sentimental fellow. Unfortunately, weakness is the wellspring of transgression. Your fierce re holds no sway.¡± Wang Fuchenughed coldly. With a wave of his arm, his primeval force descended upon Chen Fan like a sword.

    Chen Fan''s protective primeval qi yielded instantly, cleaved open like tofu. Another crimson wound appeared on his torso.

    ¡°Damn... He looks too miserable!¡± murmured the onlookers, sympathy coursing through the crowd as they saw Chen Fan''s plight.

    ¡°Kneel and admit your wrongs. I can grant you a quick death.¡±

    Like a cat ying with a mouse, Wang Fuchen tormented Chen Fan. His primeval force was like a whip, relentlesslyshing at Chen Fan. His skin tore, flesh was rent, and blood cascaded, saturating him in a gruesome crimson hue.

    Chen Fan found himself a pawn in Wang Fuchen''s game of torment and humiliation. His every action was as futile as thest. The difference in strength between them was like an impassable chasm, rendering every strategy he knew utterly ineffective.

    ¡°Not kneeling?¡±

    Wang Fuchen advanced, his Yuanfu realm aura intensifying with each step, akin to an approaching storm. This marked the zenith of Chen Fan''s desperation.

    His opponent could have swiftly ended him with a single blow, but he chose instead to revel in the sadistic pleasure of toying with and torturing Chen Fan.

    ¡°Haaaah!¡±

    Under Wang Fuchen¡¯s pressure, Chen Fan let out a furious roar like a wild beast.

    It was like a dormant gate within him had swung open.

    Amid this harrowing pressure, when he felt every bone in him creaking, the Myriad Elephants Divine Art had advanced once again.

    Chen Fan went from the peak of the fifthyer to the sixthyer of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, infusing him with a surge of vitality. Miraculously, his bloody wounds visibly closed and formed scabs. But the transformation didn''t stop there.

    Within the embryo of the Heaven Seizing Furnace, the power of the Omni Fire Dragon underwentplete refinement. It transmuted into an inexhaustible essence of vitality.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s qi cultivation broke through once more, reaching the peak of the eighth level. He was only a step away from piercing through the clouds, advancing to Qi Grandmaster. [1]

    These transformations unfolded amidst Wang Fuchen¡¯s oppressive pressure. So, he was the first to notice the changes.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    His narrowed eyes registered surprise. Despite the severe injuries he had inflicted, Chen Fan seemed revitalized, emanating a significantly stronger aura.

    ¡°Interesting,¡± Wang Fuchen mumbled.

    The prospect of Chen Fan bing a Qi Grandmaster didn''t perturb him; he remained confident in his ability to kill him effortlessly.

    <i>Quite surprisingly, he managed to advance his cultivation under such circumstances. And even his physique cultivation technique has broken through. </i>Wang Fuchen watched Chen Fan¡¯s transformation with a casual smile.

    ¡°Well, that''s fine. I¡¯m sure you must have found a sliver of hope. Allow me to trample on those newfound hopes and kick you back into despair. I¡¯ll make you crumblepletely!¡±

    Wang Fuchen chuckled coldly, releasing a thread of primeval force toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan bellowed, channeling all his strength into the Undefeated King''s Fist.

    Now that his cultivation and Myriad Elephants Divine Art had advanced, he could contend even with peak Qi Grandmasters.

    If Wang Fuchen hadn¡¯t broken through to the Yuanfu realm and still been a peak Qi Grandmaster, the current Chen Fan could have fought him toe-to-toe.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    A series of explosions rang out.

    Chen Fan¡¯s flooding primeval qi shed with Wang Fuchen¡¯s ferocious primeval force, giving rise to a tempestuous wind that visibly contorted the surroundings. Countless ripples flew in all directions.

    Although Chen Fan had to constantly retreat, he had, for the first time, broken Wang Fuchen¡¯s attack.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Wang Fuchen uttered softly, a hint of surprise flickering across his expression.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A glimmer of hope appeared in Chen Fan''s heart. Like a phantom, he darted around Wang Fuchen, probing for the slightest opening.

    ¡°What¡¯s the point? Against absolute strength, your efforts are futile. Since I''ve grown weary of this game, I¡¯ll properly send you to your death,¡± Wang Fuchen said icily.

    The qi around him surged violently, an invisible tide sweeping out. Struck by this force, Chen Fan staggered, his afterimages vanishing.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Wang Fuchen, no longer interested in dragging the fight, unsheathed his sword and executed a lightning-fast arc, shing at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan raised his sword to block the attack. The force of the attack ripped apart the webbing on his hand, forcing him into a staggering retreat.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Wang Fuchen didn¡¯t give Chen Fan any chance to catch a breather. Advancing, he sent a second sh toward Chen Fan without warning.

    With a ng, the sword in Chen Fan¡¯s hand snapped, and a bloody cut appeared on his chest.

    The sword belonged to a Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple he had killed. It was just an ordinary sword, iparable to Wang Fuchen¡¯s grade-two treasure.

    ¡°Starry Sky!¡±

    Wang Fuchen swung his arm.

    In the air, streaks of sword light materialized, resembling the myriad stars in the night sky. Swishing sounds resonated as more bloody holes appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s torso.

    "Are you in despair?" Wang Fuchen chuckled lightly.

    "Fight!" Chen Fan''s eyes remained unwavering.

    Wang Fuchen was too strong, a testament to the overwhelming strength of the Yuanfu realm¡ªa league apart from the Qigong realm.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s strength had increased under Wang Fuchen¡¯s pressure, he was still like a child fighting with an adult.

    Could a child armed with a knife possibly subdue a fully grown adult?

    To say he was not in despair would be a lie.

    ¡°Fight, fight, fight!¡±

    Chen Fan, now drenched in blood, had seemingly transformed into a demon, unleashing furious roars. Every ounce of his strength was squeezed out in a desperate attempt to fight back, even if it looked like an ant trying to shake a towering tree.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan''s charge was swift, but the speed at which he was sent back flying was even faster.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Wang Fuchen, with a single punch, sent Chen Fan hurtling through the air, breaking several bones.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Wang Fuchen swung his sword, and fresh blood painted the scene.

    ¡°Ah! How can I die? How can I die here? I can¡¯t die! I must not die!¡±

    Half-kneeling, fresh blood continued to flow from Chen Fan''s wounds. He panted heavily, his mouth and nostrils tainted with blood.

    He felt indignant!

    He felt extremely indignant!

    Madly, furiously, he roared.

    In this critical moment, Chen Fan seemed to have made a decision as determination flooded his eyes. With a flip of his palm, a jade box appeared in his hand, and he swallowed the pill inside in one gulp.

    1. Early>Middle>Late>Peak. ?

 Chapter 94 - Burning Blood and Vitality, Fighting to the Death

    <h4>Chapter 94 - Burning Blood and Vitality, Fighting to the Death</h4>

    ¡°Blood Ignition Pill!¡±

    As an Alchemist, Qin Yao naturally recognized the pill Chen Fan had taken.

    True to its name, the pill, once taken, would kindle one''s blood, transforming it into a wellspring of energy. Consuming it granted the user the strength of a Qi Grandmaster for a fleeting quarter of an hour. Chen Fan had acquired it from Lin Ba, the spoils of his conquest.

    ¡°Haha!¡±

    Wang Fuchenughed mockingly, making no move to intervene. ¡°What good is it now? You¡¯re dying regardless!¡±

    Chen Fan ignored him, as he currently felt like the sun had exploded inside him. A terrifying surge of heat had engulfed him from the inside.

    The Blood Ignition Pill transmuted into an intensely fiery torrent, rushing into his dantian before coursing through his limbs and skeleton.

    The pill was seemingly roasting his dantian and meridians. He felt like someone was using a blunt but scorching-hot knife to cut thin slices of him.

    His skin shone with a reddish glow; he looked like a cooked shrimp. Still, the temperature inside steadily increased; soon, blood seeped out of his pores.

    Chen Fan felt like his blood was burning like oil, making him suffer as if he were inside a frying pan.

    The potency of the Blood Ignition Pill unfurled entirely within Chen Fan.

    The energy released from his blood burning coursed through his meridians. This energy was like a wild horse, galloping freely and aggressively through his limbs and skeleton.

    Chen Fan''s physique wasn¡¯t strong enough to contain such power.

    His meridians fractured inch by inch, and his boiling blood seeped through his pores.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan''s aura rose, steadily growing stronger.

    Separated by a barrier from the Qi Grandmaster realm, he used the blood energy to obliterate that hurdle.

    His primal qi, scorching like mes, erupted from his skull, soaring toward the heavens. His qi pierced through the clouds!

    Many had failed to be a Qi Grandmaster in their entire lifetime, but Chen Fan had just crossed that barrier.

    And that wasn¡¯t the end.

    Early stage, ninth level!

    Middle stage, ninth level!

    Late stage, ninth level!

    Peak stage, ninth level!

    His surging aura only teaued after reaching the peak of the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Chen Fan roared to the skies. The air ahead burst as his roar reverberated through the heavens and the earth.

    Pain!

    The agony was mind-numbing.

    Every drop of his blood, now broiled into strength, relentlessly propelled the surge in his aura.

    As time passed, he sensed that, apart from his blood, his will and consciousness also seemed to be on fire.

    ¡°Wang Fuchen...¡±

    Fire zed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, a terrifying sight that resembled a devil emerging from the depths of hell. His blood had ignited, leaving him looking dry and withered like a nt, prompting cries of shock and fear from the onlookers.

    ¡°He¡¯s...pletely done for!¡± Zhong Li and his group, aware of the deadly power of the Blood Ignition Pill, watched with glee as they believed Chen Fan was doomed. It demanded the sacrifice of one''s entire blood for a fleeting surge of strength, with death as the inevitable oue. Chen Fan was unquestionably doomed.

    ......

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    Outside Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, Qin Changkong¡¯s eyes turned red when he saw this scene. He unconsciously clenched his hands into fists.

    The atmosphere on Dragon Mountain Peak had grown oppressively heavy.

    In a shocking turn of events, Chen Fan ingested a Blood Ignition Pill!

    ......

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan stepped forth, rushing toward Wang Fuchen to try to kill him.

    His blood would only burn for an incense worth of time. He didn¡¯t have a lot of time, as he would die the second all his blood hadbusted.

    Why did he take the Blood Ignition Pill?

    To kill Wang Fuchen!

    Standing at the peak stage of the Qi Grandmaster realm, Chen Fan''s killing prowess was nothing short of earth-shaking. Even Wang Fuchen, a Yuanfu realm expert, felt his pupils contracting, sensing the imminent danger.

    That¡¯s right, he felt danger.

    A palpable sense of danger emanated from Chen Fan.

    It was ridiculous to say that a Qi Grandmaster could threaten a Yuanfu realm, but that was the truth.

    Undefeated King¡¯s Fist reverberated through space, whipping up a storm as the formidable attack hurtled fiercely toward Wang Fuchen.

    ¡°Sword Light Shivers Neen States!¡± [1]

    Wang Fuchen swung his sword, casting a chilling radiance that pierced through the heavens and the earth. Beneath the sword''s glow, images of cities materialized, each falling to a single sword that obliterated neen of them, its brilliance extending over a million miles.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    A terrifying st echoed, and a shockwave swept out; the impact¡¯s tremendous force formed fissures on the tform.

    Chen Fan struck wildly.

    Every punch of his shook heaven and earth as if he were trying to bring down the stars in the sky. After weathering a hundred of Chen Fan''s blows, Wang Fuchen''s frigid sword light was mercilessly shattered.

    ¡°Hundred Mountain Splitting Heavy Sword!¡± [2]

    Wang Fuchen withdrew with an icy gaze, swinging his arm. Instantly, the sky became nketed with densely packed sword shadows, descending like rain.

    Chen Fan ignored all of these and continued moving forward.

    His fist blew up everything that blocked his path forward.

    The sword shes shattered and turned into a violent sword aura, sweeping outward and leaving many cracks on the ground.

    ¡°How terrifying. Chen Fan actually broke apart two of Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword techniques after his strength skyrocketed. Incredible!¡±

    ¡°Could he really drag Wang Fuchen into hell with the power of the Blood Ignition Pill?¡±

    ¡°Impossible! Yuanfu realm powerhouses can step into the air. Even if Wang Fuchen couldn¡¯t win against him, he could simply avoid him in the air and wait until Chen Fan¡¯s blood is all burnt, leading to his inevitable demise. Wang Fuchen is in an unbeatable position.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd was shocked by Chen Fan¡¯s fierce punches, smashing through Wang Fuchen¡¯s swift sword techniques.

    Although Chen Fan had only be a Qi Grandmaster by borrowing the Blood Ignition Pill¡¯s powers, his current strength was astounding, allowing him to confront a Yuanfu realm powerhouse. It was beyond imagination.

    ¡°Fortunately, I¡¯ve already broken through to the Yuanfu realm. I would have died fighting you if I were still a peak Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°And unfortunately for you, although you can fight back against Yuanfu realm powerhouses, you¡¯re definitely no match for me. Moreover, when your blood is fully consumed, your demise is inevitable,¡± Wang Fuchen said.

    He, too, was in great shock at Chen Fan¡¯s currentbat strength.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t hear a word Wang Fuchen had said. Only a single thought was in his mind¡ªKill. Kill Wang Fuchen!

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Frenzied attacks covered heaven and earth.

    Hundred Steps Divine Fist sealed the space. [3]

    Each punch carried a force capable of shaking heaven and earth, exuding a resolute and deste aura of death as they hurtled toward Wang Fuchen.

    ¡°Fine, fine. Let me put an end to your suffering. Hatred Asunder Sword Technique, Hatred for Man!¡±

    Wang Fuchen suddenly stopped retreating, swiftly positioning his sword in front of him with a flick of his wrist. An aura saturated with hatred for man, earth, and heaven pervaded the space.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    A chilling streak of light cleaved through the air. The spectators barely caught a glimpse of Wang Fuchen''s sword sh before the sword was retracted.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A long gash appeared on Chen Fan''s chest, but no blood spilled from the wound, as all of his blood had burned.

    This wound was very deep, cutting through bone and even slicing open an organ.

    However, Chen Fan roared furiously, seemingly unaware of the wound.

    ¡°Even if my blood burns out, I will fight to the death! Die!¡±

    1. His cousin Wang Tengfei¡¯s underling Jin Guanglie used this attack before as his strongest move after the auction. Remember, it references a line in one of Gu Long¡¯s novels. ?

    2. One of Wang Tengfei¡¯s followers, thenky youth in the blessednd used this. ?

    3. Mentioned in an earlier chapter when fighting Sun Wenshan. It¡¯s the concept where one can attack from a distance away without losing any power. ?

 Chapter 95 - Incomparably Miserable

    <h4>Chapter 95 - Iparably Miserable</h4>

    <i>Burble!</i>

    <i>Burble!</i>

    Struggling to keep the fire underneath in check, Chen Fan¡¯s seven orifices bled boiling blood. Every inch of his skin had cracked, yet no blood oozed out; instead, blood-colored mes erupted from the cracks.

    Still, Chen Fan''s eyes remained unyielding. The intense re within them grew colder, his movements more savage as he relentlessly attacked Wang Fuchen.

    He felt like someone was grilling his brain; the edges of his consciousness teetered on the brink of oblivion.

    In the recesses of his thoughts lingered a single thought: Attack and kill Wang Fuchen.

    ¡°He... haspletely turned into a crazed demon!¡± eximed a bystander, their pupils contracting violently at the sight of Chen Fan''s tormented state.

    The surrounding onlookers recoiled, gripped by a profound sense of dread. Even those who hade to spectate couldn''t help but feel a newfound respect for Chen Fan.

    Zhong Li and Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples, however, looked on with satisfaction.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡± uttered Qin Yao weakly, slumping onto the ground. Her gaze fixated nkly on Chen Fan; her heart ached so much that she struggled to breathe.

    Memories of their time together flooded her mind.

    Her interactions with Chen Fan used to be sparse, as she paid little attention to her junior brother. She finally became involved with him when he killed Liao Feng and sought refuge in the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    Driven by a desire to assure Qin Changkong of Chen Fan''s well-being, she had ventured into the mountain range.

    However, not only did she fail to locate him, but she was also injured by demon beasts and fell prey to some Mountain River Sect disciples.

    In the nick of time, Chen Fan had appeared, rescuing her from them and absorbing the mes of desire, shouldering her pain.

    This incident marked their closest interaction, and as memories of their shared experiences filled her heart and mind, she couldn''t shake the profound impact it had on her.

    Even now, Chen Fan, disregarding his safety, hade to Scarlet Cliff to rescue her, even at the risk of his own life.

    ¡°Haha, how does it feel, you little miscreant? Despite taking a Blood Ignition Pill and bing a Qi Grandmaster, you''re still nothing but an ant before me, as weak as ever. Are you in despair?

    ¡°This is your punishment. Punishment for disrespecting our Floating Cloud Sword Sect!¡± Wang Fuchen dered,ughing maniacally as each of his sword strikes broke through Chen Fan''s defenses, leaving deep cuts one after another.

    ¡°Ahhhh, die, die, die!¡±

    Chen Fan ignored everything, fighting crazily with bloodshot eyes.

    ¡°All Winning!¡±

    ¡°All Conquering!¡±

    ¡°All Destroying!¡±

    ¡°All Defiant!¡±

    ¡°Eternal Victory!¡±

    ¡°Return as One!¡±

    Chen Fan let out a wild roar as he unleashed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist with reckless abandon.

    The silhouette of three heads and six arms resembled a demonic ensemble in a wild dance. All six of his arms executed their respective moves simultaneously, leaving the earth and sky shaking.

    <i>Poot¡ªtch! Poot¡ªtch!</i>

    The air exploded with a series of sharp cracks as the sword lights shattered under the relentless assault.

    Qi swept out wildly and violently in all directions, battering Wang Fuchen. Despite the protective veil of primeval force, the formidable energy rattled his blood and qi.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Chen Fan fearlessly pressed on,unching a relentless barrage of attacks

    Their figures danced and shed on the tform, exchanging blows countless times in a matter of moments.

    Chen Fan pushed the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to its limits, his iron fists glowing with a faint golden light, capable of destroying everything they touched. The attacks were simple, violent, and direct. Undefeated King¡¯s Fist struck out repeatedly.

    Meanwhile, Wang Fuchen''s sword strikes, filled with terrifying killing power, asionally inflicted new wounds on Chen Fan.

    Onlookers gaped in astonishment.

    ¡°Chen Fan is truly terrifying. The increase in his cultivation is only temporary, but his ability to hold his own against Wang Fuchen is nothing short of miraculous.¡±

    ¡°It''s a shame that such a talented individual is destined for an early demise.¡±

    ¡°The disciples of the Spring Autumn Sectck courage. Isn''t the youth in white Zhong Li? I heard he''s the top disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, a Qi Grandmaster, yet he stands idly by, offering no assistance.¡±

    ¡°Any attempt to intervene would be futile. Wang Fuchen is simply too powerful. Those who try would only implicate themselves. It''s not worth the risk. Chen Fan is destined to meet his doom.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd engaged in hushed conversations, exchanging nces as they observed Chen Fan''s plight. Pity and deep admiration welled up within them.

    Wang Fuchen had captured Qin Yao to lure Chen Fan into a trap. Despite the obvious danger, Chen Fan had ventured forth willingly, earning their respect and admiration.

    ......

    An incense worth of time passed by very quickly.

    The aura emanating from Chen Fan dwindled, and his offensive prowess plummeted.

    ¡°Haha, little bastard, you''ve exhausted all your blood. Now, I don¡¯t even need to make a move for you to die!¡± Wang Fuchen dered with a cold smile, sheathing his sword and focusing solely on evading Chen Fan''s attacks.

    ¡°With your talents, you were destined for greatness, even if you might not have surpassed me. But s, your greatest mistake was to offend me, Wang Fuchen.¡±

    ¡°The Realm Breaking Pill isn''t of much use to me, but you should have offered it to me willingly when you obtained it. You should have considered it an honor.¡±

    ¡°s, you chose to injure Wang Tengfei and besmirch my sect¡¯s reputation. Your actions have sealed your fate. The Dragon Mountain Blessed Land will serve as your final resting ce.¡±

    Wang Fuchen reveled in savageughter, adopting the demeanor of a triumphant victor, his tone dripping with disdain.

    ¡°Ugh!¡±

    Abruptly, Chen Fan staggered, his movements halting as he spat mouthfuls of inky ck blood.

    An extreme sense of weakness washed over Chen Fan, and a wave of dizziness incapacitated him, making him copse heavily to the ground. Not an ounce of strength remained within him.

    The medical effects of the Blood Ignition Pill had been depleted.

    His blood was nearly depleted, leaving his flesh and blood desated, his visage reduced to skin and bones¡ªan utterly horrifying transformation.

    Wang Fuchen approached with a coldugh, stepped on Chen Fan''s face, and jeered, ¡°Does it hurt, little bastard? Do you want to die?¡±

    He then grabbed Chen Fan''s neck and hoisted him up before delivering a ruthless blow to his stomach.

    He held back, fearing he might inadvertently kill Chen Fan, as he still desired to subject him to further humiliation.

    Agony surged through Chen Fan as he dry-heaved, devoid of blood but coughing up fragments of his own organs.

    Yet, the agony inflicted by Wang Fuchen paled inparison to the aftermath of the Blood Ignition Pill.

    Chen Fan felt as if countless red-hot knives were stabbing him; each cut stripping away flesh bit by excruciating bit.

    It was harrowing.

    Wang Fuchen''s relentless barrage of heavy blows shattered every bone, tore through every inch of flesh, and destroyed every meridian; all the while, he spewed degrading words that assaulted both his body and mind.

    Chen Fan was beaten so badly that he no longer had any semnce of being human.

    It was iparably miserable!

 Chapter 96 - Falling Off the Cliff

    <h4>Chapter 96 - Falling Off the Cliff</h4>

    After the Blood Ignition Pill had burned all the blood inside someone, they wouldn¡¯t die immediately; instead, they would suffer indescribable pain for a while. Only after enduring the aftereffect of the pill could they embrace death.

    Suffering the aftereffects felt harrowing.

    Chen Fan wanted to scream out loud but couldn¡¯t produce any sound.

    Not only had all his bloodbusted, but even his soul had also received damage. His vision became blurry, and he felt like heaven was beckoning him.

    ¡°Am I about to die? How can I just die like this? I haven¡¯t killed Wang Fuchen, and I have yet to reach the peak of martial arts. How can I die?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart burned with an intense desire to survive.

    His desire was so strong that his blurry vision and woozy mind momentarily gained rity. Everything looked brilliant now.

    However, Chen Fan knew that he was just experiencing terminal lucidity.

    And that meant that he was about to die!

    He failed to kill Wang Fuchen.

    He failed to reach the peak of martial arts.

    He failed to reach a fitting end.

    He was unwilling!

    Very unwilling!

    Gaining the heavenly opportunity to practice an unparalleled divine art and form the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo hadn¡¯te easy. A bright future waved its hands at him; if he could hold on to it, he would reach the peak of martial arts in the future.

    However, everything was about toe to an abrupt end.

    ¡°No... I don¡¯t want this!¡± Chen Fan collected thest bits of his strength and roared hoarsely.

    Wang Fuchen smiled viciously. ¡°You¡¯re unwilling? So what? You will still die! Plenty of people do things they don¡¯t want to¡ªyou aren¡¯t special.

    ¡°And if you ask me, you have no right to say that. All you should feel is regret. Regret the fact that you offended our Floating Cloud Sword Sect and offended me, Wang Fuchen!¡±

    ¡°You became destined to die at my hands the second you took that Realm Breaking Pill and injured Wang Tengfei. I will kill you with my hands before everyone. I will use your life and blood to hammer a single lesson into everyone¡¯s mind: I, Wang Fuchen, can never be humiliated, and my Floating Cloud Sword Sect even more so!¡±

    ¡°Whoever humiliates us shall die!¡±

    Wang Fuchen was resolute.

    ¡°Haha¡ªAh... Wang Fuchen, even if I have to die... It won¡¯t be by your hands.¡±

    Chen Fan felt a burst of strength rising out of nowhere. With a jolt, he broke free from Wang Fuchen¡¯s hands and leaped, jumping off the cliff.

    As he fell, he turned with a sneer hanging on the corners of his lips. ¡°Wang Fuchen, even if I die, it will be on my own terms. But I won¡¯t die. Just wait. Wait for my revenge!¡±

    Chen Fan plummeted straight toward the bottom of the cliff.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡± A mournful scream rang from the cliff.

    Qin Yao suddenly jumped up, seemingly having broken free of Wang Fuchen¡¯s shackles, and rushed toward the crimson cliff.

    She watched as Chen Fan plummeted into a seemingly bottomless abyss.

    Two trails of bloody tears streamed down Qin Yao¡¯s face.

    Within moments, her countenance changed. She promptly jumped off the cliff with stubborn determination, following Chen Fan.

    This scene shocked not only Wang Fuchen but also the onlookers.

    None had imagined this.

    After all, jumping into that abyss was the same as jumping into the maws of death.

    Despite being a Yuanfu realm expert, even Wang Fuchen wouldn¡¯t dare to make that jump.

    ¡°What a devoted woman.¡±

    The eyes of many in the nearby crowd narrowed, disappointment welling in their hearts as if they had lost something precious. Sighs rippled through the gathering.

    ¡°Chen Fan risked everything to save her, even fighting with Wang Fuchen. Ultimately, he chose to leap off the cliff, embracing death on his own terms rather than falling into Wang Fuchen¡¯s clutches. She, too, decided to jump off the cliff. It speaks volumes of her strong character and sentiments, willing to face life and death alongside him.¡±

    ¡°Wang Fuchen''s methods are truly detestable. It should earn him nothing but contempt.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s expression soured as he overheard the murmurs.

    He hadn''t anticipated Qin Yao''s drastic decision.

    In her act of sentimentality, his despicable and shameless nature wasid bare before everyone. It only ignited a seething rage within him, though.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go quickly! Will he target us next?¡±

    Sensing the chilling aura emanating from Wang Fuchen, disciples from the three other great sects recoiled, their eyes shrinking as they hastily averted their gaze.

    ......

    ¡°Xiaofan, Yaoyao!¡±

    On Dragon Mountain Peak, Qin Changkong watched it all happen through the primeval mirror.

    His aura surged uncontrobly, transforming into a fierce, violent wind that swept out, carrying an earth-shaking killing intent.

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, one is responsible for their own life and death in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. I trust your Spring Autumn Sect won¡¯t stoop to seeking revenge afterward, correct?¡± Leng Feng¡¯s cold voice rang out.

    Qin Yao was Qin Changkong¡¯s daughter, and Chen Fan was like a son to him. Chen Fan had consumed the Blood Ignition Pill and was sure to die. Qin Yao had jumped off the cliff, so there was no way she would survive.

    Sensing the frigid killing intent directed at Wang Fuchen emanating from Qin Changkong, Leng Feng feltpelled to caution Zhuo Bufan. He needed to ensure that his sect elders were restrained and didn''t escte matters by seeking revenge.

    Although his words were directed at Zhuo Bufan, they were meant for Qin Changkong.

    ¡°Elder Qin!¡± Zhuo Bufan naturally understood this and immediately shouted.

    Qin Changkong''s disy of open hostility toward Wang Fuchen could lead to severe consequences afterward. Any repercussions that followed could jeopardize the delicate bnce among the four great sects.

    The rtionship between these sects was already strained. The Burning Incense Valley and Mountain River Sect would seize any opportunity to instigate a major conflict between the Spring Autumn Sect and the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    With two trails of tears rolling down his cheeks, Qin Changkong suppressed his killing intent and clenched his hands tightly in anguish.

    Chen Fan was dead.

    His daughter was also dead.

    And he couldn¡¯t avenge them.

    His appearance didn¡¯t show it, but if one noticed his trembling fists, they could get a hint of what he was feeling inside.

    Chen Fan was truly gone.

    Despite his initial reputation as a martial trash, he had soared to prominence like a rocket in just a few short months. The news of his untimely demise left an unerasable mark of disbelief.

    How was that possible?

    How could this be?

    On a distant mountain peak, the Pavilion Guard Elder also witnessed it all through a primeval mirror, disregarding the spatial distance.

    Afterward, he sighed to the skies, feeling an iparable pity.

    He had held high hopes for Chen Fan, intending to nurture him further and make him strong enough to rival Duan Jingtian.

    The internal conflicts within the Spring Autumn Sect were escting, and the struggle for leadership was intense. Duan Jingtian had undeniable talent but didn¡¯t belong to the Pavilion Guard Elder¡¯s faction.

    Anticipating Duan Jingtian''s eventual rise to Sect Leader, the Pavilion Guard Elder foresaw a purge within the sect.

    Those aligned with factions opposing Duan Jingtian would suffer. They had no choice but to find a decent seedling to nurture that could stand against Duan Jingtian.

    Chen Fan had emerged as that hope.

    Now, that hopey shattered.

    Everything seemed impossible now.

    ¡°Haaa...¡±

    A heavy sigh dispersed into the wind on the mountain peak.

 Chapter 97 - Small Golden Person

    <h4>Chapter 97 - Small Golden Person</h4>

    ¡°Sect Master, could you employ your powers to assess the situation below the cliff?¡± Qin Changkong inquired, clinging to a sliver of hope.

    If Chen Fan and Qin Yao had indeed fallen to their deaths, he wanted to confirm it for himself.

    Zhuo Bufan rose from his seat and ced his palm on the primeval mirror, emitting a powerful aura.

    After a brief moment, he shook his head and said, ¡°No, I can¡¯t do it, not with my current strength, at least. I¡¯m afraid only the Leader and the High Elder, with their extraordinary powers, could reveal the situation below the cliff.¡±

    The light in Qin Changkong¡¯s eyes dimmed.

    The Spring Autumn Leader and the High Elder boasted the highest cultivation levels in the Spring Autumn Sect, having transcended the Core Formation realm and reached the realm where the core shatters and the nascent appears¡ªthe Divine Nascent realm.

    As a mere outer sect elder, it was impossible for him to request their help.

    ¡°Changkong, I understand what you¡¯re thinking, but...¡± Zhuo Bufan hesitated momentarily before continuing, ¡°That cliff is so deep that its bottom is imperceptible. It¡¯s at least ten thousand feet deep, and I can faintly sense a strong yet enigmatic force shielding the bottom. Chen Fan and Qin Yao can¡¯t possibly be... alive.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan sighed endlessly in his heart.

    Like a shooting star, Chen Fan had streaked through the skies of the Spring Autumn Outer Sect, showcasing potentialparable to even Duan Jingtian. Yet, his demise came abruptly.

    Qin Yao had embarked on the path of an Alchemist by fusing with the Bone Spirit me, so her future was equally bright.

    The loss of such exceptional individuals was a hard blow to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    As the Outer Sect Master, he wanted to save those two as well, but he couldn¡¯t do anything.

    ......

    While most people expected the bottom of the Scarlet Cliff to be hard ground, it was actually a pond of considerable depth.

    When Chen Fan and Qin Yao were about to hit the water¡¯s surface, they used their primeval qi to form a shield, creating a thunderous ssh akin to falling meteorites, spraying water hundreds of feet high.

    Falling from such a great height would have reduced even Qi Grandmasters to meat paste, even if the pond water had cushioned their fall. However, theyer of primeval qi, their makeshift cushion, shattered upon impact, sparing them from immediate death.

    However, the brutal recoil nearly shattered their skeletons. A fierce force invaded their minds, plunging them into darkness as they lost consciousness.

    Like driftwood, they floated on the pond''s surface, carried away by the water''s current.

    Suddenly...

    An enormous spider rushed out from a nearby cave, boasting ten legs that resembled steel spikes and emanating an icy gleam.

    The spider''s visage resembled a demon that had emerged from the depths of hell, evoking a shiver at its frightful appearance.

    The earlier disturbance had drawn out this Devil-Faced Spider.

    Noticing Chen Fan and Qin Yao, this Devil-Faced Spider spat out its ck silk¡ªa stark departure from the typical white hue.

    This resilient ck silk sliced through the air, swiftly enshrouding the pair like dumplings and hauling them back into its cave. The duo was bound to be its next meal.

    The cavern, spacious yet cocooned in the spider''s web, housed smaller Devil-Faced Spiders. When they saw the big spider hauling the ¡°dumplings,¡± they scurried away.

    This was a Devil-Faced Spider nest.

    Unaware of their surroundings, both Chen Fan and Qin Yao remained unconscious. Chen Fan, in particr, was barely breathing.

    The Devil-Faced Spider dragged them deeper into its cave.

    In the innermost sanctum, there was another cave. It resonated with intermittent dragon roars as if a divine dragon lived inside.

    The Devil-Faced Spiders disyed a peculiar mix of longing and fear toward this cave.

    Weathered spider corpses littered this cave¡¯s entrance. No one knew how old these corpses were.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan, whose breath was steadily fading, radiated a dazzling golden light.

    ¡°Zhizhi, zhizhizihi...¡±

    As soon as this light burst out, something like divine might coursed through Chen Fan. The spider silk encasing him melted like ice cream, startling the colossal Devil-Faced Spider.

    The golden radiance surged into the cave, carrying Chen Fan and Qin Yao.

    ......

    This cave wasn¡¯t huge, but it was dry and clean. In a slightly deeper area of this cave, there was a twenty-foot-long pond.

    However, the water in this pond wasn¡¯t clear; instead, it resembled fresh blood, pulsating with powerful energies.

    The pool seemed to be the origin of the draconic roars echoing in the cave. On the surface of this blood pool, faint images of a divine dragon intermittently surfaced and dissipated.

    It was a pool of dragon¡¯s blood!

    Enveloped in golden light, Chen Fan and Qin Yao traversed the cave.

    The divine dragon''s image on the blood pool''s surface seemed to sense something, responding with resounding roars that agitated the pool.

    A blood-colored light emerged, shrouding the pool as a dragon silhouette swam atop it, issuing continuous warnings¡ªit was the guardian of the dragon blood pool.

    Undeterred by the roars of the pool¡¯s guardian, Chen Fan and Qin Yao, cocooned in the golden light, swiftly descended into the dragon blood pool.

    <i>Bubble! Bubble!</i>

    Bubbles erupted, and the pool, like boiling water, reacted vehemently.

    Air bubbles and blood dragons, condensed from the crimson liquid, attacked the intruders.

    However, the golden light surrounding Chen Fan exhibited a sentient quality, erupting violently with formidable pressure.

    The pressure made the blood dragons explode, turning them back into dragon blood.

    A more formidable blood flood dragon emerged, but it also sumbed to the golden light¡¯s power.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The pool of dragon¡¯s blood finally seemed furious. The whole cave started trembling, and the shadow of a rain dragon materialized. The divine dragon''s might flooded the cave and asserted its dominance over heaven and earth. [1]

    The golden light radiating from Chen Fan gradually condensed, forming a small golden figure. This entity''s facial features and appearance remained a blur, discernible only as a human-like silhouette.

    Immediately, the rain dragon¡¯s shadow exploded, transforming into the purest life essence, gushing into Chen Fan. Simultaneously, the golden figure whooshed into Chen Fan, settling between his eyebrows.

    1. The word used for rain dragon here is ¡°Ying Long¡± or ¡°Ó¦Áú¡±, It is said to be a winged dragon associated with rains and floods, once used by Huangdi to kill Chi You. Meanwhile, what ismonly tranted to Flood Dragon is ¡°Jiao Long¡± or ¡°òÔÁú¡±, a hornless dragon. ?

 Chapter 98 - Casting Body with Dragon Blood

    <h4>Chapter 98 - Casting Body with Dragon Blood</h4>

    Chen Fan should have died long ago.

    However, he had undergone a golden transformation after getting struck by lightning. The golden lightning had given him the Heaven Seizing Art and shattered and dissipated.

    Unexpectedly, the golden light hadn¡¯t dissipated; instead, it had fragmented into countless particles, concealing itself within Chen Fan.

    This golden light had kept Chen Fan alive until now. Without it, he would have died before even leaping off the cliff.

    Currently, his condition was dire, beyondparison in its misery. He looked more like a heap of putrefied flesh than a human now.

    Apart from his broken bones and meridians, one would notice that he didn¡¯t have a patch of unscathed flesh.

    He also had little to no blood; under ordinary circumstances, not even deities could rescue someone in such a state.

    Yet, he currentlyy submerged in the dragon blood pool. The mighty powers of a dragon¡¯s blood were surging into him.

    Suddenly, the sound of bones cracking rang out; his bones had be powder.

    Chen Fan convulsed violently as the excruciating pain threatened to rouse him from hisatose state.

    The power of the dragon blood continued to drill into Chen Fan.

    It was as if his cells, once dry and withered, now had a feast, so they avidly absorbed the rejuvenating essence.

    The husk that was once desated now seemed replete with vitality.

    A terrifying strength seemed to awaken and thrive in the deepest part of his flesh and blood cells.

    As vitality surged back into his flesh and blood, Chen Fan''s emaciated form transformed remarkably, resembling a balloon inting.

    Hisplexion transitioned from a deathly pallor to a ghastly white, then a pale hue, ultimately reiming a robust, healthy pink.

    Simultaneously, his bone-deep wounds and the injuries guing his internal organs visibly healed at an astonishing pace. The recovery was swift, akin to an old tree on the brink of demise being revitalized by a refreshing downpour, bursting forth with renewed vitality.

    Within his consciousness, Chen Fan found himself amidst a boundless expanse.

    This world pulsated with thunderous energy¡ªmountains of thunder, seas of thunder, and various such pces cascaded down, creating a surreal spectacle reminiscent of impending destruction.

    Suddenly, a resounding roar echoed through the expanse.

    An enormous dragon''s head materialized, dwarfing even the mightiest mountains.

    Its colossal body stretched indefinitely, wings extending to blot out the sun and sky. A ferocious windstorm tore through the space with a single p of its wings, obliterating the descending thunder formations.

    This was a Rain Dragon¡ªthe lord of the sky!

    Currently, this rain dragon was undergoing a tribtion.

    Towering thunder mountains of unknown height crashed down violently, wielding a terrifying force capable of annihting the sun, moon, and stars.

    Expansive thunder seas, stretching across countless miles, cascaded down, shrouding the entire world. Thunder rumbled endlessly like rain, threatening to destroy everything.

    Divine thunder pces, resembling celestial temples of the god of thunder, descended forcefully. The heavens trembled, and the space shattered, seemingly unable to withstand such divine might.

    The terrifying thunder tribtion descended continuously, falling onto the Rain Dragon, trying to destroy it.

    Despite the Rain Dragon¡¯s boundless powers, it struggled against the world-ending tribtion. The lightning had struck it so many times that its scales had shattered.

    Chen Fan saw a drop of this dragon¡¯s blood fall. It disrupted the starry river, tore through the fabric of time and space, and eventuallynded on the Tianwu Continent.

    Afterward, the droplet of dragon''s blood vanished into a spatial rift¡ªDragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    This drop of dragon blood had fallen into the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    Chen Fan raised his head and looked up. He saw this blood drop descending toward him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan''s consciousness exploded under the impact of the descending blood drop as if his soul were on the brink of being torn asunder.

    ¡°No!¡±

    Chen Fan roared furiously and suddenly jolted, sitting up.

    ¡°I... this is...¡±

    Chen Fan surveyed his surroundings, realizing he was immersed in the dragon blood pool. He spent some time regaining his bearings.

    ¡°I... Dragon¡¯s blood. Is this the drop of dragon blood from the Rain Dragon I saw?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at the blood pool and muttered, ¡°Rumors speak of a divine dragon''s blood in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. I didn¡¯t expect it to be true!¡±

    ¡°True or not, who cares? I''ve miraculously survived a catastrophic fall from the cliff,nding in this dragon blood pool. What an incredible stroke of luck!¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but burst out inughter.

    ¡°Senior Sister...¡±

    Chen Fan turned to look at Qin Yao. She had yet to awaken but was absorbingrge amounts of the dragon blood¡¯s powers.

    He recalled Qin Yao leaping off the cliff after him; he was at a loss for words.

    He didn¡¯t expect Qin Yao to follow him and jump off the Scarlet Cliff.

    ¡°Senior Sister, I won¡¯t ever disappoint you!¡± Chen Fan made a promise in his heart.

    ......

    Although Chen Fan couldn''t fathom the staggering cultivation level of the Rain Dragon, the thunderous tribtion indicated a realm beyond hisprehension.

    God?

    Immortal?

    The copse of ages and space by a mere droplet of dragon blood was awe-inspiring.

    The dragon blood, fierce and domineering, was rapidly transforming Chen Fan.

    Once struck by lightning, Chen Fan had undergone a transformation bathed in a mysterious golden light, making him immensely strong.

    Further fortified by the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, his physique soared to new heights.

    Now, the dragon blood was transforming him again.

    To put it in another way, he was being reforged.

    The dragon blood circtedpletely around Chen Fan¡¯s meridians, removing all the impurities and blockages.

    His meridians, expanding to twice their original size, became sturdier and wider, amodating a greater flow of primeval qi.

    If his meridians were once akin to a small stream, they now resembled a torrent during a sh flood.

    Chen Fan¡¯s bones that had been crushed to pieces had long sincee back together. However, the dragon blood delved deeper, fortifying and hardening them. A subtle golden radiance emanated from the bones now.

    The dragon blood transformed into countless thin threads, infiltrating every corner of his body, transforming it thoroughly.

    This was the mighty power of dragon''s blood, unrelenting and ruthless in its approach.

    Now that Chen Fan had regained consciousness, he felt the indescribable pain of the transformation and couldn¡¯t help but scream out loud.

    However, the agony served as a poignant reminder of his helplessness against Wang Fuchen, even after consuming the Blood Ignition Pill. The pain transformed into motivation as he gritted his teeth and decided to endure.

    This kind of pain was nothing!

    Strength!

    This pain was inconsequentialpared to the opportunity before him.

    He had survived such a great disaster and got to reforge himself using dragon blood. How was he supposed to find Wang Fuchen for revenge if he couldn¡¯t endure this little bit of pain to obtain this power?

 Chapter 99 - Scaring Oneself

    <h4>Chapter 99 - Scaring Oneself</h4>

    When he thought of Wang Fuchen, Chen Fan''s impatience to fully recover and advance his cultivation soared. He dreamt of making a swift breakthrough, leaving this ce, and seeking revenge.

    <i>Wang Fuchen, I''ll make you wish for death! Just you wait!</i> Chen Fan swore to himself.

    Before jumping off the cliff, he had also left behind a threat, saying that if he could survive this disaster, he would track down Wang Fuchen for retribution.

    Now, he had survived the disaster and was fortunate enough to fall into a pool of dragon blood. It had reforged him, so he anticipated a significant increase in his strength, which would turn his revenge into a tangible reality.

    Chen Fan rapidly absorbed the energy in the dragon''s blood, transforming his physique and strengthening himself.

    <i>Bong!</i>

    Amidst this transformation, a sudden tremor jolted Chen Fan''s brain.

    A resonant sound, reminiscent of a grand bell, echoed through his mind. Others couldn¡¯t hear it, as that was purely a fluctuation in his mind.

    Four words reverberated in his mind: "Wings of Rain Dragon!"

    Chen Fan''s mental gaze locked onto a small golden figure nestled deep within the middle of his brow. The discovery startled him.

    He was certain this golden figure was a recent addition to his consciousness. Where exactly did ite from?

    ¡°Golden light...¡±

    A sh of inspiration struck Chen Fan.

    He recalled a streak of golden light entering him when lightning had struck him.

    ¡°Could it be...¡±

    Numerous thoughts flooded Chen Fan''s mind.

    He had always thought that he got his unparalleled divine art thanks to that lightning strike. However, the current revtion suggested otherwise. The Heaven Seizing Art came from the golden light that had entered him, not the lightning strike.

    <i>What is this small golden figure? Could it be a remnant thought from some almighty being who perished during tribtions? Did it enter me because I just happened to be struck by lightning?</i>

    In this world, a malevolent divine ability known as Possession Rebirth existed.

    Cultivators with high attainments left their divine nascent behind when facing utter destruction. To continue living, they would search for a new host, erase the host¡¯s will, and take over their body. Chen Fan considered that this golden person might have been a formidable individual who, like the Rain Dragon, failed to ovee tribtions, leading to their soul scattering.

    A wisp of their residual soul might have escaped and entered Chen Fan, waiting for him to be stronger to facilitate a possession.

    ¡°What should I do?¡± The thought depressed Chen Fan.

    He had been perfectly okay when unaware of the tiny golden person¡¯s existence, but it made him anxious now.

    After all, he couldn¡¯t be sure if his thoughts were correct and the golden figure was really after his body.

    If that were true, wouldn¡¯t all his efforts be in vain, merely serving someone else''s agenda?

    ¡°It must be the case. The golden light gave me the unparalleled Heaven Seizing Art, opened my dantian, and cleansed my meridians, all while waiting for my cultivation to soar. They must be waiting for the moment when they can seize control easily.¡±

    The more he thought, the more apprehensive Chen Fan became. He even wondered if he could dig this small golden person out and throw it away despite its treasure-like allure.

    ¡°What do I do? What should I do?¡±

    Chen Fan kept asking himself. The fear of the golden figure overshadowed the joy of surviving a great disaster and reforging his physique with a dragon¡¯s blood in his heart.

    This small golden person hade with the lightning, now concealed deep between Chen Fan¡¯s brows. It was a supernatural lodger with a mysterious, immeasurable, and irresistible aura.

    Undoubtedly, an invincible expert!

    A profoundly mighty entity!

    Perhaps a god from legends!

    With just a wisp of lingering consciousness, it could effortlessly dominate Chen Fan.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Chen Fan abruptly pped himself, shaking off his distracting thoughts. ¡°Ptooi! Why am I scaring myself?¡±

    ¡°This small golden person might be the lingering consciousness and could very well take over my body one day, so what?

    ¡°All I have to do is be strong. So strong that even this little guy can¡¯t do anything. There is no need to be afraid! I might even refine it when the timees!

    ¡°Right. Don¡¯t scare yourself, Chen Fan. The situation is what it is; I better confront it with courage.

    ¡°So what if this small golden person has hidden motives? I''m still quite weak, and thinking wouldn¡¯t get me anywhere. Instead, I should leverage this opportunity to benefit from the small golden person, strengthen myself, and increase my cultivation.

    ¡°One day, I''ll stand at the pinnacle of martial arts, shattering the heavens. Even the gods themselves will bow before me. Who would dare seize control of me then?¡±

    The fear within Chen Fan gradually subsided.

    He was so weak now that in the eyes of those almighty figures, even Wang Fuchen, he was no stronger than an ant.

    So, worrying about that little golden person¡¯s motive was futile.

    Rather than making baseless assumptions and frightening himself, he should consider ways to raise his cultivation. No amount of plotting and scheming would work against him when his cultivation was high enough. He would be able to crush them all.

    Furthermore, the uncertainty of whether the small golden person intended to seize control remained.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but smirk at his own skepticism.

    ......

    ¡°Wings of Rain Dragon...¡±

    As the small golden person repeated those four words, Chen Fan cautiously attempted to establish a mental connection with it.

    He wanted toprehend the true nature of this small golden being!

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    The moment he initiated mentalmunication, a profound flow of words and images flooded his consciousness. Surprisingly, it was a martial art.

    Wings of Rain Dragon.

    Qi Grandmaster powerhouses could sprint and glide in the air for short periods.

    Meanwhile, Yuanfu realm powerhouses had a thick primeval force, enabling them to materialize wings from it and soar effortlessly. Traveling ten thousand miles in a day posed no challenge to them.

    This Wings of Rain Dragon was a martial art that specialized in condensing something simr to primeval force wings¡ªone that far surpassed the ordinary ones.

    Rain Dragons, renowned as the lords of the skies, boasted unparalleled speed. Legend had it that only the divine beast Kunpeng in its Peng form could rival their swiftness. [1]

    Wings of Rain Dragon could condense a pair of a rain dragon¡¯s wings, enabling seamless flight and evading pursuers.

    Moreover, with just his eighth-level cultivation, Chen Fan could tread the air like Yuanfu realm experts. Such was the might of this martial art.

    Martial arts that could give the user a pair of primeval force wings were few and far between. There wasn¡¯t a single one in the entire Spring Autumn Sect. Otherwise, a lot of people would have learned such a technique.

    The ability to navigate the sky freely proved invaluable for pursuit or evasion, potentially saving lives during critical moments.

    Take Sun Wenshan¡¯s first attempt to intercept Chen Fan on the mountain path, for example. If Chen Fan had learned Wings of Rain Dragon, he could have easily evaded Sun Wenshan, even if he was outmatched, and Xiaobai wouldn¡¯t have gotten heavily injured.

    1. Kunpeng (öïÅô) are a species of mythical magical beasts that originated from China. Peng or Great Peng (´óÅô) is a giant bird that transforms from a Kun (öï), a giant fish. Inparative mythology of giant creatures, Peng is simr to the Roc or Garuda and Kun to the Leviathan. So far, Peng has been used several times in passing to describe characters moving around in the air, and has been tranted as roc. I will be using Peng if one really appears in the future. ?

 Chapter 100 - Wings of Rain Dragon

    <h4>Chapter 100 - Wings of Rain Dragon</h4>

    The martial art technique, Wings of Rain Dragon, permeated Chen Fan¡¯s mind, startling him.

    ¡°Wings of Rain Dragon... Is it rted to this dragon¡¯s blood?¡±

    Chen Fan knew that this pool with the blood of a rain dragon¡ªruler of the skies¡ªhad near-infinite energy.

    Presumably, the small golden figure had absorbed a trace of the rain dragon''s blood, awakening this profound martial art within Chen Fan.

    Though Wings of Rain Dragon couldn¡¯t rival the Heaven Seizing Art, it undeniably wielded formidable power.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t know the technique¡¯s tier, but he spected it was, at the very least, a heaven tier martial skill, given its lineage traced back to a rain dragon.

    ¡°First, the Heaven Seizing Art; now, the Wings of Rain Dragon. One can increase my cultivation level, and the other can materialize wings akin to primeval force wings. I wonder what other martial arts this small golden figure will unveil next. Perhaps a formidable offensive skill.¡±

    Despite the looming threat the small golden figure represented, anticipation glinted in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes because he had discerned its true value.

    His priority was to increase his strength, and this small golden figure emerged as a veritable treasure trove¡ªa shortcut for rapid advancement in strength and cultivation.

    ¡°I should try tomunicate with it more...¡±

    Chen Fan felt very excited inside. ¡°With the Wings of Rain Dragon, I can take flight in the sky like Yuanfu realm powerhouses with just Qigong realm cultivation. When I eventually ascend to the Yuanfu realm, my speed will surpass theirs. Remarkable. Truly excellent.

    ¡°As the saying goes, of all martial arts in the world, speed is invincible. This technique gives me another way to save my life. Even if I can¡¯t defeat my opponent, I can use my unrivaled speed to escape. Who could possibly catch up to me?¡±

    Chen Fan promptly delved into the practice of the Wings of Rain Dragon technique.

    His injuries were now a distant memory, fully healed.

    The primeval qi in his dantian was thick and abundant, and Chen Fan stood at the peak of the eighth level. All he needed was an opportunity, and he could pierce through the clouds, officially stepping into the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    Endless primeval qi coursed through him.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    As he executed the cultivation method, primeval qi surged from his dantian and converged at his back. Assisted by the rain dragon¡¯s blood, practicing the technique became a breeze for Chen Fan.

    Three days passed in the blink of an eye.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A pair of expansive wings manifested on his back, fully condensed with primeval qi, sporting a half-transparent appearance.

    This was the Wings of Rain Dragon.

    The wings had runes that seemed to form a rain dragon. When unfurled, the wings emanated the distinct aura of a rain dragon. With the wings at the center, the air within a hundred steps became more active.

    Rain dragons were the lords of the skies.

    Although Chen Fan wasn¡¯t a rain dragon, cultivating and manifesting the wings of a rain dragon made him especially attuned to the surrounding air. He even felt a degree of control over it.

    With a gentle p of the wings, a powerful gale attacked the modest cave. Stone walls trembled, and loose stones cascaded to the ground, creating echoing rumbles.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan ascended from the ground and hung in mid-air.

    Such a feat would have been impossible for him in the past.

    Although he could reach thirty to forty feet in the air with a single jump, he could not sustain himself in the air. Yet, Chen Fan floated effortlessly now.

    ¡°Hahahaha! Good! Good! Good! With these wings... Just wait, Wang Fuchen. Once I am a Qi Grandmaster, you won''t find refuge anywhere in heaven or on earth. You won''t have the slightest chance to live!¡± Chen Fanughed heartily.

    Without the Wings of Rain Dragon, even if Chen Fan became a Qi Grandmaster and became much stronger, killing Wang Fuchen would have been impossible. After all, Wang Fuchen could fly and, therefore, easily evade Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan could unleash primeval qi for long-distance attacks, but the attack¡¯s power would diminish significantly. Furthermore, Wang Fuchen could easily elude Chen Fan if he decided to retreat.

    Now that he had the Wings of Rain Dragon, could Wang Fuchen still escape?

    Not a chance!

    As for whether he was a match for Wang Fuchen, Chen Fan didn''t even entertain the thought.

    Having reforged himself with dragon blood, Chen Fan hadpletely transformed. His flesh had be terrifyingly resilient, and the Myriad Elephant Divine Art was now at the seventhyer¡ªthe Body Strengthening realm.

    As stated in the manual of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, practitioners would be iparably strong at the seventhyer, the Body Strengthening realm. Even treasure weapons would have difficulty harming them, let alone ordinary weapons.

    And that was all before one considered that Chen Fan had reforged his physique using a dragon¡¯s blood. He should be able to resist the attacks of grade-one treasures easily.

    Chen Fan wondered if he could tear a Yuanfu realm powerhouse apart with his bare hands.

    He even contemted confronting Wang Fuchen, relying solely on his physical prowess.

    Along with his powerful physical abilities, if he also became a Qi Grandmaster, he could trounce Wang Fuchen without the help of any pill.

    ¡°Hahahaha, I really have to thank you, Wang Fuchen. If you hadn¡¯t forced me into a corner, I would never have jumped off the Scarlet Cliff, thus missing this extraordinary opportunity. I¡¯m so grateful to you.

    ¡°To show my gratitude, I¡¯ll repay double for all the pain and suffering once I leave this ce. Let''s see if luck favors you as much as it did me! Hahahaha!¡±

    His wings pped fiercely as heughed, creating a formidable windstorm within the cave.

    Sand and gravel whirled through the air; it seemed like the cave might crumble anytime.

    ¡°Next, let¡¯s be a Qi Grandmaster!¡±

    Chen Fan calmed his heart, poised to seize this moment to break through to the ninth level¡ªthe Qi Grandmaster realm.

    However, Qin Yao suddenly began changing drastically.

    Raging mes suddenly ignited on the surface of her skin, drawing Chen Fan''s attention.

    His gaze fixated on the vivid imprint between her eyebrows¡ªa phoenix imprint.

    This phoenix imprint seemed toe alive, resonating with the cry of a phoenix.

    The raging mes burning around Qin Yao remarkably changed the phoenix imprint.

    It became increasingly distinct, undergoing profound transformations. It seemed like a phoenix was rapidly maturing within the imprint, on the verge of bursting forth.

    Simultaneously, Qin Yao absorbed the residual dragon power of the blood pool.

    ¡°Scree!¡±

    A high-pitched cry of a phoenix resonated immediately. Chen Fan watched the phoenix imprint ascend, metamorphosing into a divine phoenix.

    This phoenix possessed an otherworldly grace, surrounded by unimaginable spiritual ripples.

    The temperature in the cave instantly skyrocketed. The mes encircling Qin Yao burned fiercely as though reaching a boiling point.

    Suddenly, the me around her shot out at an unimaginable speed, rushing toward the phoenix above Qin Yao.

 Chapter 101 - Bloodline Awakened

    <h4>Chapter 101 - Bloodline Awakened</h4>

    Jin Domain, middle of the Tianwu Continent, the Great Jin Imperial Court:

    Among the forbiddennds within Great Jin¡¯s Imperial Court was a ce that burned with strong mes year-round. A sea of fire stretched out in every direction here, with the light emanating from the mes flickering between brightness and dimness. However, the temperature of the sporadic heat wavesing from the inferno was enough to send shivers down the spines of those in the imperial court.

    The boundless expanse of burning mes formed an unmistakable shape when viewed from above¡ªa phoenix.

    It seemed like the final resting ce of a phoenix. Despite its demise, the phoenix''s mes raged on, never faltering.

    This breathtaking spectacle had etched itself into the memory of all fortunate witnesses.

    To the south of this sea of mes stood a colossal statue that seemed to pierce the heavens.

    This statue appeared to be a phoenix with its wings spread, about to soar into the sky!

    The tail alone, resembling rising mes, covered an impressive ten-mile radius.

    The gigantic phoenix statue upied the surrounding hundred miles like a mountain, visible even from hundreds of miles away.

    The eyes of this enormous phoenix statue were entirelyposed of mes. Every hour, rich mes gathered from the surrounding sea of fire, converging into two luminous streams that entered the phoenix''s fiery gaze.

    Below this enormous phoenix statue sat dozens of people dressed in scarlet red robes. Both men and women sat there cross-legged, absorbing the surrounding mes¡¯ powers.

    The enormous phoenix¡¯s tail had three parts, with an elder sitting on each.

    All three had formed seals with their hands, uttering enigmatic incantations.

    The phoenix imprint between their brows flickered wildly, making the feathers of the colossal phoenix statue burst into mes, covering the surroundings. The cultivators below absorbed the ensuing ze.

    One of the elders suddenly stood up, looking at the dozens of young men and women below. As the elders prepared to address them, an unexpected change urred.

    The enormous phoenix status had abruptly started shaking, and the dim mes surged with sudden intensity.

    The fiery light around the enormous phoenix statue also brightened up tremendously.

    The mes on it kept growing, crazily spiraling upward. The expressions of the three elders on the phoenix tail changed drastically.

    Without hesitation, they swiftly retreated, and one elder bellowed, ¡°Back off, all of you. Back off!¡±

    The two other elders flung their wide sleeves, conjuring a powerful gust that propelled the dozens of young cultivators into the air.

    Startled, these individuals promptly withdrew without thinking about the why or the how.

    The group cultivating beneath the towering phoenix statue rapidly dispersed.

    The mes on the colossal figure surged even higher, soon dominating the sky.

    Those thick mes pushed out in all directions, manifesting as a fiery wave that rippled outward.

    ¡°Holy phenomenon! This is a holy phenomenon!¡± eximed a white-haired elder, unable to contain his astonishment at the unfolding spectacle.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!</i>

    Simultaneously, many silhouettes came flying here from all corners of the imperial court, each exuding formidable auras. Everyone stood above the phoenix, their auras pouring out like a waterfall.

    Amidst all this, a majestic figure descended, their aura akin to stormy seas, sweeping through every direction and subduing the sea of mes below.

    ¡°My King!¡±

    The surrounding onlookers immediately offered respectful salutes.

    ¡°My King, this holy phenomenon...¡± An elder looked toward this magnificent figure.

    ¡°No need to panic. Someone in our n has awakened their bloodline; the holy statue has sensed it,¡± said the magnificent figure.

    ¡°A nsman awakened their bloodline power!¡± The nearby crowd gasped collectively.

    They were well aware of the rarity and difficulty associated with bloodline awakening. In the entirety of the Great Jin Imperial Court, those who had unlocked their bloodline powers could be counted on one''s fingers.

    How could they not be shocked now that one of their n members had awakened their bloodline power?

    The young men and women d in scarlet robes couldn''t conceal their intense jealousy.

    ¡°My King, exactly who is it?¡±

    The majestic figure remained silent, opting to run his palm over the statue instead.

    Immediately, two fiery masses erupted from the phoenix statue¡¯s eyes, merging to form a massive fireball. It undted for a while before an image appeared in the sea of mes.

    The image depicted none other than the moment when the phoenix imprint on Qin Yao''s brow awakened.

    ¡°She is...¡±

    The crowd was stunned.

    They couldn¡¯t even recall if they had met Qin Yao before.

    ¡°My King, who is this girl? She¡¯s definitely not one of us. Why would she have our n¡¯s bloodline?¡± blurted an elder hurriedly.

    ¡°She is...¡±

    A light shone in the magnificent figure¡¯s eyes, and he said, ¡°Thirteenth Elder, go to the Spring Autumn Sect in the Hong Domain, eastern continent, and bring her back.¡±

    The elder¡¯s eyes lit up, and he immediately nodded. ¡°Yes!¡±

    ......

    The cave under the Scarlet Cliff:

    As the mes around Qin Yao merged with the phoenix spirit, it grew increasingly intelligent and divine.

    This phoenix spirit was about thirty feet tall, red in color, and burning with raging mes. With its wings unfolded, it spanned around fifty feet wide. Strips of mes curled around its tail, looking extraordinary.

    ¡°Scree!¡±

    The phoenix spirit let out another cry. Afterward, it turned into a fiery light and entered Qin Yao between her eyebrows as if it had never appeared.

    Chen Fan stared fixedly at Qin Yao, refusing to rx a single muscle.

    He couldn¡¯t understand what had transpired or whether the oue would be positive or negative.

    About an incense¡¯s worth of timeter, Qin Yao¡¯s eyshes slowly fluttered, and she opened her eyes.

    ¡°Senior Sister!¡±

    Relief washed over Chen Fan as he saw Qin Yao awakening. She appeared to be fine, but it was better to ask her to be sure.

    ¡°How are you feeling now, Senior Sister?¡±

    Qin Yao looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°Then, do you know what happened to you earlier?¡±

    Qin Yao nodded.

    ¡°What was that, Senior Sister?¡±

    Qin Yao said, ¡°It seems... my bloodline powers have awakened.¡±

    ¡°Bloodline powers?¡± Chen Fan looked puzzled.

    Qin Yao replied, ¡°I don¡¯t know much, either. Let¡¯s not talk about me for now. How are you feeling, Xiaofan? Have you recovered?¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t press further, realizing that Qin Yao also knew little about it.

    Though unaware of bloodline powers, he believed they were likely beneficial.

    Her possession of such powers hinted at an extraordinary identity, given their rarity among martial artists in the vast Tianwu Continent.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Senior Sister. I¡¯ve fully recovered already. We both got very lucky and received blessings from a disaster. This used to be a pool of dragon blood. It reforged my physique, healed my injuries, and made me stronger overall.¡±

    Chen Fan recounted what had happened.

 Chapter 102 - Advancing to Qi Grandmaster

    <h4>Chapter 102 - Advancing to Qi Grandmaster</h4>

    Qin Yao was deeply shocked upon hearing Chen Fan''s narration.

    Not only had they survived their fall from the cliff, but they had also¡ªcoincidentally¡ªfallen into a pool of a dragon¡¯s blood.

    This entire pool only had a single drop of a dragon¡¯s blood; although years had passed and the blood had lost most of its energy, the remnant energy was still mighty.

    It facilitated Chen Fan''s full recovery and awakened Qin Yao''s dormant bloodline.

    ¡°Why are you so stupid, Xiaofan! Why did youe for me despite knowing you were walking into a trap?¡± Qin Yao suddenly reprimanded Chen Fan.

    Wang Fuchen had used her as bait to lure Chen Fan into a trap.

    Despite the obvious danger, Chen Fan had chosen to rescue her.

    Chen Fan gently took hold of Qin Yao''s hand and sincerely said, ¡°Senior Sister, I¡¯m willing to do anything for you. No one can hurt you. I won''t let anyone who dares to hurt you get away with it."

    Qin Yao hastily withdrew her hand, her face flushed red, a sweet feeling swelling in her heart.

    "Oh, right, Senior Sister," Chen Fan inquired, "how did Wang Fuchen learn about us?¡±

    Wang Fuchen capturing Qin Yao to force him out was an unexpected move. After all, Wang Fuchen¡¯s group shouldn''t have known about their connection, yet he used her as leverage.

    Qin Yao shook her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m not sure, either. I ran into Bing Ye before, and not long after, Wang Fuchen found me. I was no match for him, and he sealed my cultivation and captured me.¡±

    ¡°Bing Ye...¡±

    A cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. ¡°She¡¯s a member of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Zhong Li¡¯s group must have told Wang Fuchen about our rtionship and your whereabouts!¡±

    Chen Fan harbored a strong suspicion that the Heaven''s Alliance was entangled in this matter. The timing of Wang Fuchen''s pursuit, shortly after Bing Ye''s encounter with Qin Yao, seemed too coincidental.

    Moreover, only fellow sect disciples knew about his rtionship with Qin Yao. After all, Qin Changkong treated him extremely well, so the entire outer sect was aware of this.

    Since Qin Yao was Qin Changkong¡¯s daughter, Chen Fan would definitely show up if harm befell his only child.

    ¡°Damn it! Sect Master told us to act as a team inside Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. Let alone working like a team, those guys actually sold out a fellow disciple. Very well! This matter isn¡¯t over just yet!¡±

    Chen Fan''s voice was frigid,ced with a palpable killing intent.

    The consequences could have been dire if he had remained in seclusion for just one more day.

    And Zhong Li¡¯s group was behind all this chaos.

    ¡°Senior Sister, you are also at the peak of the eighth level, right?¡± said Chen Fan, sensing her aura. She could also advance to the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Qin Yao nodded.

    After fusing with the Bone Spirit me during the Outer Sect Grand Competition, she had be an early-stage, eight-level practitioner. After entering the top ten, she obtained plenty of rewards and advanced to the middle stage.

    After entering Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, she also had some fortuitous encounters and obtained some treasures, reaching thete stage. Then, Wang Fuchen captured her.

    Through the power of the rain dragon¡¯s blood, not only did her bloodline power awaken, but her cultivation also progressed one step further, reaching the peak stage.

    ¡°Senior Sister, this is a Ginseng Fruit. You should be more familiar with its effects than me. Eat it and try to advance to the Qi Grandmaster realm, then we¡¯ll leave this ce.¡±

    Chen Fan retrieved a wooden box from his storage ring, revealing a Ginseng Fruit.

    ¡°It¡¯s really a Ginseng Fruit!¡± Qin Yao eximed. This fruit was a raremodity, so obtaining one was hard. She hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to be lucky enough to acquire one.

    Despite the tempting offer, Qin Yao hesitated. "Xiaofan, it¡¯s more useful if you consume the Ginseng Fruit instead. You¡¯ll definitely be able to break through to the Qi Grandmaster realm in one go.¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Senior Sister, that was my n, but I don¡¯t need it anymore. I can advance to the ninth level at any time I want. I have already umted enough energy, so the Ginseng Fruit would be wasted on me. However, it¡¯s perfect for you.¡±

    Chen Fan shoved the Ginseng Fruit into Qin Yao¡¯s hand and said, ¡°So, don¡¯t decline it, Senior Sister. I really don¡¯t need it to advance. We should take this opportunity to advance both our cultivation levels. ¡°A group of Devil-Faced Spiders is guarding this cave¡¯s exit, and there is even a tier-two Devil-Faced Spider among them. It¡¯s as strong as a Yuanfu realm expert. Additionally, there are numerous eighth- and ninth-level beasts outside. You will have difficulty leaving this ce if you don¡¯t be a Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    He had keenly sensed the dangers outside the cave¡ªa horde of ferocious Devil-Faced Spiders, including a tier-one, first-level beast, awaiting their exit.

    He would have to face the Yuanfu realm beast while leaving, so he wouldn¡¯t have any time or energy to look after Qin Yao.

    Qin Yao no longer declined his offer. ¡°Okay then. I¡¯ll try my best to be a Qi Grandmaster so I won¡¯t drag you down.¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s mindset was changing.

    Chen Fan used to be a martial arts trash. His dantian was like iron, and his meridians were blocked, making it impossible for him to cultivate.

    However, after getting struck by lightning, his cultivation had progressed rapidly, swiftly catching up to Qin Yao and ultimately surpassing her.

    Aware of this, Qin Yao didn''t want to fall too far behind.

    ¡°That¡¯s the way, Senior Sister. You have to fight with me against the Devil-Faced Spiders outside,¡± Chen Fan said with a smile.

    The two sat in the lotus position.

    Qin Yao swallowed the Ginseng Fruit, unleashing its boundless medicinal efficacy. A surge of primeval qi and vitality essence erupted, flooding her with power.

    She immediately refined it using her cultivation technique, her aura gradually intensifying.

    A pile of primeval stones appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    Although hecked nothing for his advancement to the Qi Grandmaster realm, a substantial amount of primeval qi was still required to support the process.

    Two dayster.

    <i>Boom boom!</i>

    Almost simultaneously, primeval qi spewed out from Chen Fan and Qin Yao¡¯s skulls, forming pirs that shot straight into the sky, piercing the clouds.

    This phenomenon marked the culmination of their breakthroughs to the Qi Grandmaster realm, reaching the ninth level of the Qigong realm.

    ......

    While the two were immersed in their breakthroughs, Wang Fuchen and his cohorts had already ventured into the ck Sea Demon Cave, gearing up to seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus.

    With only a fraction of the half-month time limit remaining, the ck Sea Demon Cave, home to a plethora of powerful demon beasts, including the formidable ck Flood Dragon species, posed a formidable challenge.

    Seizing the Ice Jade Snow Lotus wouldn''t be a simple task, requiring a significant time allocation.

 Chapter 103 - Killing Qi Grandmasters Like Poultry

    <h4>Chapter 103 - Killing Qi Grandmasters Like Poultry</h4>

    ¡°Xiaofan, we can leave now that we are both Qi Grandmasters,¡± Qin Yao said.

    Although she had just stepped into the ninth level, her bloodline powers and the Bone Spirit me made her feel stronger than ever. She was as strong as a middle tote-stage Qi Grandmaster.

    As for Chen Fan, he was undoubtedly strong.

    The Blood Ignition Pill had temporarily given him a Qi Grandmaster¡¯s strength, and he could still fight toe-to-toe with Yuanfu realm powerhouses.

    Now that he was a true Qi Grandmaster with a reforged physique, he was much stronger despite only being at the early stage of the ninth level.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Mhm. The fifteen-day time limit is about to close, Senior Sister. I¡¯m sure Wang Fuchen and the others have gone to the ck Sea Demon Cave, so we should head over there and give them a deadly surprise!¡±

    They heard fierce hissing noises as soon as they stepped out of the cave.

    The Devil-Faced Spiders had guarded the entrance the entire time. They immediatelyunched ferocious attacks when they saw Chen Fan and Qin Yao exiting the cave.

    The Devil-Faced Spiders¡¯ silk looked soft at a nce, as if a weak tug could tear it, but it was tougher than steel wire. Their spinnerets shot the silk at such high speeds that it pierced the air like an arrow, producing hissing sounds.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Fan snorted and stomped his foot, unleashing his violent aura.

    As he executed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, loud explosions rumbled, and the silk darting toward him turned into threads.

    Qin Yao¡¯s methods were also quite fierce.

    Bone Spirit mes appeared in her palms, and she attacked the spiders with both hands.

    The terrifying power of primeval mes erupted. It rumbled through the air with irresistible heat capable of melting gold and iron.

    The spider silk immediately melted upon contact.

    ¡°Humans, you¡¯re food for me and my descendants!¡±

    A huge Devil-Faced Spider appeared from behind the group of spiders. A terrifying pressure pressed down on the duo, making the air stagnate.

    It was a tier-two, first-level Devil-Faced Spider,parable to first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouses. It was as intelligent as a human and could speak the human tongue.

    ¡°Food?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and replied, ¡°Alright, you death-seeking beast, I¡¯ll ughter your descendants before killing you to increase my cultivation!¡±

    He turned to look at Qin Yao and asked, ¡°Senior Sister, leave this beast and those two Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spiders to me. You take care of the others. Do you have any problems with that?¡± Qin Yao shook her head in response.

    Chen Fan decided to fight the three strongest of the group, leaving only the Devil-Faced Spiders weaker than Qi Grandmasters for Qin Yao.

    There were a lot of weaker ones, but Qin Yao wasn¡¯t too worried as they were weak.

    ¡°Good, let¡¯s do it!¡±

    Chen Fanughed and pounced toward his opponent.

    With a swipe of his hand, his primeval qi rolled and transformed into arge hand, wing at the Devil-Faced Spider King and the two regr ones at the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    ¡°You are seeking death, human!¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King was furious.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King hadn''t expected a mere Qi Grandmaster to dare initiate an attack, especially one aimed at the three strongest members of their group. It viewed this act as a tant disy of disregard.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    The Devil-Faced Spider King raised one of its steel bar-like legs and stabbed therge hand made of primeval qi. The primeval qi hand exploded with a loud rumble, simultaneously smashing the Devil-Faced Spider King''s leg.

    ¡°O!¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King cried in pain, clearly caught off guard by the force behind Chen Fan''s attack. How was it strong enough to break its leg?

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan instantly jumped at it. Three heads and six arms materialized behind him,unching a flurry of attacks upon the two Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spiders.

    Although these two Devil-Faced Spiders weren¡¯t weak, they were like helpless babies in front of Chen Fan. Large cracks appeared instantly on their hard carapaces, and fresh green blood spewed forth.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted, attacking with all his strength.

    A punch, brimming with tremendous strength, struck the Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spider to the right of Chen Fan.

    It was as if this punch struck a block of tofu, instantly obliterating the Devil-Faced Spider into pieces.

    Chen Fan''s physique was now so robust that he could fight a Yuanfu realm powerhouse with that alone.

    A punch with Chen Fan¡¯s full power could even shake a first-level Yuanfu realm expert, let alone a Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spider.

    It was usual for the spider to explode like a balloon from his punch.

    ¡°Die again!¡±

    Wings appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s back; a strong gale struck the area with a swish. It swept out and blew away the weaker Devil-Faced Spiders, making them roll about on the ground. Chen Fan instantly descended before the other Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spider.

    Quickly reacting, this spider shot out its sharp silk, targeting Chen Fan''s head. It seemed like Chen Fan had willingly entered the line of fire.

    ¡°Shatter!¡±

    Chen Fan showed no fear. Even grade-two treasures couldn¡¯t harm him easily, so there was no need for him to fear a spider¡¯s silk.

    He smacked the spider silk away, reducing it to powder.

    However, his palm continued to move even after smacking the silk away. It struck the Devil-Faced Spider, also making it explode like a balloon.

    Chen Fan had killed two Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spiders in seconds. It looked like he had crushed two ants. The Devil-Faced Spider King couldn¡¯t react to the situation.

    ¡°Ah, you damnable human, you actually killed two of my strongest sons! I want you dead! I want you to die from thousands of silk threads stabbing your heart!¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King was enraged. It never expected two of its strongest descendants to be killed so swiftly by Chen Fan, blown up to pieces.

    Immediately, ck spider silk pierced through the air, moving like a ck, poisonous snake. The mournful sound of tearing wind resounded nonstop as it flew straight at Chen Fan, aiming to kill him.

    The silk the Devil-Faced Spider King had spat out wasparable to grade-one treasures.

    <i>Ding ding ding...</i>

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t try to dodge the silk. He protected his vitals and allowed the numerous threads of spider silk tond on him. Waves of metal shing noises rang out, producing sparks from the impact.

    ¡°How is this possible?!¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King watched as its silk struck Chen Fan, but it appeared to have hit an unbreakable steel te. The spider was dumbfounded.

    The attack failed to even scratch Chen Fan¡¯s skin.

    Chen Fan held his palms apart, protecting himself with his qi. Lightning crackled, twisting around him.

    He took three steps forward, each step bold and decisive, his aura majestic, and he punched with both hands.

    ¡°Wretched beast, ept your death!¡±

    His cultivation hummed, condensing a furnace above his head.

    This was the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo, a step away from fully taking shape. If he refined this Yuanfu realm Devil-Faced Spider King, perhaps he couldplete the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

 Chapter 104 - Great Battle Against Devil-Faced Spider King

    <h4>Chapter 104 - Great Battle Against Devil-Faced Spider King</h4>

    Chen Fan had in the two Qi Grandmaster-level Devil-Faced Spiders in the blink of an eye, making the Devil-Faced Spider King¡¯s hideous face reveal a look of shock.

    The creature never expected the human before it to possess such formidable power.

    ¡°Human, you dare kill my descendants! Die!¡± roared the enraged Devil-Faced Spider King.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King was furious and shot its ck silk that moved like lightning. It sliced through the air, creating an ear-piercing tearing sound.

    ¡°ept your death, wretched beast!¡±

    Unafraid, Chen Fan held his hands out before him, bringing up ayer of qi to protect himself.

    Lightning crackled and swam around Chen Fan as he strode forward, each step bold and decisive. His aura exuded majesty as if a formidable army stood behind him, radiating might and grandeur.

    <i>Hum...</i>

    Above his head, the Heaven Seizing Furnace''s embryo condensed, with magma cascading and an aura of hellish sulfur permeating the surroundings.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan clenched his open palm, facing the sky. The Heaven Seizing Furnace''s embryo rapidly shrank, almost taking on tangible form as it nestled in his hand. Thrusting his arm, he attacked the oing spider silk with the embryo.

    With the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo in hand, the energy in his palm roared, devouring the surrounding qi and struck the spider silk that was hard as steel.

    <i>Kapoong!</i>

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Glittery sparks flew everywhere as if two metal objects had collided violently, creating a dazzling spectacle.

    The air violently shook, squeezing and colliding, giving rise to nonstop explosions.

    ¡°Refine!¡± Chen Fan shouted, feeling an immense force surging through his arm. The force seemingly wanted to break his arm before destroying his organs. He used the power of the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s embryo to devour and refine the spider silk.

    Under the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s intense refinement, the spider silk, tougher than fine steel, melted like snow meeting fire at the first contact.

    <i>Thump! Thump! Thump!</i>

    Chen Fan advanced with unstoppable momentum, each step resembling wild elephants trampling the earth, making the ground vibrate like a war drum.

    ¡°Human, you...¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King turned pale with fright.

    It was well aware of the incredible strength of its spider silk,parable to grade-two treasures. Astonishingly, this human had refined it before its very eyes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression was cold, and he continued to use the technique with outstretched hands.

    His blood and primeval qi flowed, merging and crashing, elevating his aura to its peak.

    After bing a Qi Grandmaster, Chen Fan wanted to find a Yuanfu realm powerhouse to fight with, to unleash the pent-up energy within him. The Devil-Faced Spider King was the best opponent he could ask for.

    <i>Chch!</i>

    The Devil-Faced Spider King rose on its hind legs in a human-like stance. Eight of its ten legs resembled razor-sharp steel needles. They transformed into dark streaks of sharp light, reminiscent of ck mes from the underworld, sweeping toward Chen Fan like shooting stars.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    The violent vibrations pierced through space, creating an eerie symphony.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King¡¯s onught rained like an unrelenting storm, leaving no refuge for Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan, however, never even thought of dodging.

    His Myriad Elephants Divine Art had entered the seventhyer, reaching the Body Strengthening realm. In addition, his physique had been reforged with dragon blood, making it nearly as robust as a grade-one treasure and no less formidable than the spider¡¯s limbs.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan immediately activated Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, manifesting three heads and six arms.

    The power unleashed in tandem with his Qi Grandmaster cultivation was staggering, elevating it to a level far beyond its previous capabilities.

    Being a quasi-profound tier martial skill, Undefeated King¡¯s Fist required Qi Grandmaster-level cultivation to unleash itsplete potential.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi was robust, his cultivation level hadn¡¯t hit the mark in the past. His mastery of the technique had reached the point where he could materialize three heads and six arms, but he could still only disy seventy percent of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist¡¯s powers.

    Now, he could bring out the full power of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. He could even push beyond that with his enhanced physical prowess, making it rival a true profound-tier martial skill.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Undefeated King¡¯s Fist¡¯s aura erupted. Chen Fan¡¯s fists struck the Devil-Faced Spider King like meteors.

    It was like Mars crashing into Earth. The air erupted violently, spreading in all directions, and qi surged wildly across the ground like a tempest.

    ¡°Hahahaha, awesome! This feels too awesome!¡± Chen Fan eximed, reveling in the thrill of the battle. His flesh and blood were seemingly cheering him on.

    Chen Fan punched crazily, seemingly oblivious to the concept of fatigue.

    An unending flow of energy surged from within him, his primeval qi coursing vigorously through his wide meridians, giving him a sense of liberation.

    It felt like everything pent up within him was finding release with each frenzied attack, leaving him feeling remarkably invigorated.

    Chen Fan enjoyed unleashing all his attacks, but the Devil-Faced Spider King was in deep agony.

    Thispletely went against all logic.

    As a tier-two demon beast with strengthparable to a Yuanfu realm expert, it should have been able to easily handle a Qi Grandmaster realm.

    So, why?

    Here was Chen Fan, monstrously strong, overpowering the demon beast with only Qi Grandmaster cultivation.

    His punches and palm strikes carried overwhelming force capable of shattering mountains and rending the earth, shing fiercely with the spider legs.

    Despite the demon beast''s seemingly unbreakable steel-like body, these attacks made it cry in pain.

    The spider was severely wounded, and the once imprable outer shell of its legs now teetered on the brink of being shattered under the relentless assault.

    Chen Fan naturally had no idea what the Devil-Faced Spider King was thinking.

    Heughed merrily, escting the intensity and speed of his attacks.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King gradually found it difficult to resist his attacks. The attack repeatedly pushed back the gigantic creature, with deep green blood spattering out from its wounds.

    ¡°Ahhh, human, who exactly are you?!¡± Chen Fan had nearly destroyed eight of its legs. It had no choice but to retreat, roaring in a mix of pain and fear.

    ¡°Who am I? I''m the one who will end you!¡± Chen Fan roared, and a sharp whistle pierced the air. The space ahead exploded, giving rise to a white qi wave.

    Every palm strike resonated with the might of dragons and tigers as the Myriad Elephants Divine Art reached its full potential. The primeval qi swept away a thickyer of dirt, causing rocks to crack and crumble.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan leaped upward, resembling a roc spreading its wings, and descended with formidable force.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King spat out ck silk again, forming an inescapable sharper than treasure des, gleaming with a dark luster.

    It looked like a bird was about to be trapped in a colossal.

    However, Chen Fan''s powerful arm strikes shattered the iing spider web, and he broke through the, rushing toward the Devil-Faced Spider King, aiming at its head.

    Sensing the imminent danger, the Devil-Faced Spider King reacted swiftly. Its ten legs propelled it away, resembling a bolt of ck lightning.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying palm strike fell, cracking the ground. Fissures spread, dirt flew, and the ground trembled like an earthquake had just passed.

 Chapter 105 - Killing the Devil-Faced Spider King

    <h4>Chapter 105 - Killing the Devil-Faced Spider King</h4>

    Chen Fan engaged in a heated battle against the Devil-Faced Spider King, sessfully maintaining an upper hand by unleashing his formidable strength.

    Qin Yao also demonstrated remarkable prowess.

    She had just be a Qi Grandmaster, but the support from the Bone Spirit me and her awakened bloodline made her as strong as middle tote-stage Qi Grandmasters.

    The Devil-Faced Spiders attacking her were merely tier-one, eight-level beasts.

    The spiders'' attempts to trap her with their silk met a swift end, as the Bone Spirit me made them sizzle and turn into inky ck liquid upon contact.

    Qin Yao was a female Alchemist, which would make it seem that she was weak, but that was far from the truth.

    She killed every Devil-Faced Spider that crossed her path, wielding a grade-two sword treasure, enveloped in her Bone Spirit me, with a quasi-profound tier sword technique. It looked like she was in a spider-hunting festival.

    Noticing Qin Yao''s prowess, Chen Fan felt a sense of relief, so he shifted his focus back to pursuing the Devil-Faced Spider King.

    ¡°Wretched beast, did you think you could run away?¡±

    The typical scenario of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse effortlessly killing a Qi Grandmaster seemed irrelevant in Chen Fan''s case.

    Despite being in the Yuanfu realm, the Devil-Faced Spider King found itself nearly defenseless against Chen Fan.

    The spider''s legs were cracked, oozing fresh blood. Its silk was either refined or shattered by Chen Fan''s punches, rendering it useless against him.

    Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi circted even quicker, generating heat within him. A whirlwind spun around him, whistling, resonating with his surroundings¡ªit looked like an astronomical phenomenon.

    Immersed in unleashing his powers, he felt like the strength coursing through him was inexhaustible.

    His primeval qi flowed freely and grew fiercer over time; he fought like fatigue didn¡¯t exist for him. He resembled an invincible god of war.

    Chen Fan struck the Devil-Faced Spider King multiple times, leaving deep palm imprints on it. Fresh blood flowed non-stop from those wounds, instilling fear in the creature.

    Its face still looked sinister, but its overall appearance made it seem pitiful.

    A grand tier-two demon beast like the Devil-Faced Spider King, a powerhouse with Yuanfu realm cultivation, was reduced to such a state by a Qi Grandmaster, bringing shame to all demon beasts.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King possessed intelligence akin to adult humans.

    After a few rounds, it realized the exceptional nature of the human before it¡ªa genius among martial artists.

    A memory resurfaced in the demon beast''s mind.

    Seven or eight years ago, another human Qi Grandmaster had killed its mother. It was merely a tier-one, seventh-level demon beast then.

    ¡°Human, I won¡¯t let this go!¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King, unwilling to follow its mother''s fate, turned to flee, disregarding its descendants.

    ¡°Thinking of running?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly.

    Wings materialized on his back, and when he moved them to pursue the spider, they created a mighty gale.

    ¡°What? Human, how did you...¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King immediately sensed the dangerous aura behind it. It looked back and saw a pair of wings unfolding on Chen Fan¡¯s back. Using those wings, Chen Fan floated in the air just like the Yuanfu realm spider.

    ¡°Wretched beast, you won¡¯t get away!¡± Chen Fan was so fast that he caught up to the spider with just a few ps of his wings, despite only being a Qi Grandmaster.

    Being the lord of the skies, rain dragons¡¯ speed was unparalleled.

    Mastering the Wings of the Rain Dragon made his flying speedparable to second-level Yuanfu realm powerhouses.

    ¡°Get down!¡±

    With a swish, Chen Fan soared above the Devil-Faced Spider King and descended, delivering a powerful stomp to its back.

    A resounding crack echoed as the creature''s steel-like carapace shattered.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King cried out miserably, plummeting to the ground and demolishing many trees in the process.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Its massive form turned the weaker demon beasts below that failed to escape into a meat paste.

    Despite being dizzy from the impact, the Devil-Faced Spider King realized this was the critical moment for its survival. It hastily shot threads of spider silk, trying to hinder Chen Fan.

    The ck spider silk moved through the air like a bed of snakes. Carelessness could result in Chen Fan''s flesh being cut open.

    Ayer of primeval qi protected Chen Fan, and his physical powers erupted as he crashed down like a meteor. The ck spider silk tore through his protective primeval qi but failed to harm his flesh.

    The resilient, stic ck trapped him, and he swiftly sank toward the ground.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fanmanded, and his primeval qi surged. Pushed to its limits, the spider web tore open, arcing through the air.

    ¡°Die, you wretched beast!¡±

    Chen Fan, untouched save for a few white marks on his skin, thrust his palms repeatedly, like the thousand-hand Buddha, radiating an air of invincibility.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King sensed its imminent demise. Chen Fan''s attack, an outpouring of pent-up emotions, was akin to the opening of floodgates. He felt an extreme sense of relief, and his strength peaked.

    Chen Fan shed with the Devil-Faced Spider King in the blink of an eye.

    A storm of wind appeared where their qi collided.

    In this storm, it was as if a wind spirit was howling furiously. A tornado that soared hundreds of feet into the sky materialized, creating a surreal scene.

    Chen Fan walked out of this storm with long strides, with no injury on him.

    The Devil-Faced Spider King also emerged from the storm, drenched in blood and missing more than half of its legs.

    ¡°Human, you...¡±

    The Devil-Faced Spider King¡¯s voice was filled with infinite terror. It couldn¡¯t believe it was about to die at the hands of a Qi Grandmaster, just like its mother.

    The distinctiony in the fact that the martial artist before it relied on absolute strength, while its mother¡¯s killer used the powers of some treasure.

    ¡°What do you mean, you!? Just die!¡±

    Chen Fan approached and unleashed a punch, making the Devil-Faced Spider King''s head explode. A demon core soared out, which he caught.

    Upon reaching tier two, demon beasts formed a demon core akin to the primeval vessel of human martial artists. It contained the essence of their cultivation, umted throughout their lives.

    Holding the demon core, Chen Fan felt the rich and pure essence of primeval force within. A smile crept across his face.

    Perhaps this demon core could help himplete the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

 Chapter 106 - Swallowing the Demon Core

    <h4>Chapter 106 - Swallowing the Demon Core</h4>

    A Yuanfu realm demon core was worth ten thousand primeval stones.

    In the Great Chu Empire''s martial ns and families, Yuanfu realm experts were ancestor-level personnel, acting as the pirs of their ns.

    Chen Fan could kill first-level Yuanfu realm experts despite being a mere Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°Regretfully, besides the demon core, I kinda rendered the other parts of the Devil-Faced Spider King valueless.¡± Chen Fan nced at the Devil-Faced Spider King¡¯s corpse and shook his head with a look of pity.

    Every part of a tier-two demon beast was regarded as a treasure. For instance, the Devil-Faced Spider King''s legs,parable to fine iron, were premium materials for weapon refinement, each worth several hundred primeval stones. Unfortunately, he had destroyed them all.

    ¡°What a waste,¡± Chen Fan smiled bitterly, ¡°I wonder how Senior Sister is doing?¡±

    He activated his primeval qi, spreading the wide Wings of Rain Dragon on his back. With a p, a whirlwind emerged, carrying him away.

    This fight helped Chen Fan gain a profound understanding of his current strength. Cold determination flickered in his eyes as he muttered, ¡°Just wait, Wang Fuchen and Zhong Li. You might think Senior Sister and I are dead, but wait for my surprise. Especially you, Wang Fuchen. You won''t leave Dragon Mountain Blessed Land alive!¡±

    ......

    Qin Yao continued her relentless fight against the swarming creatures inside the Devil-Faced Spider nest. Despite theircking cultivation levels, the Devil-Faced Spiders charged at her fearlessly, their spider silk forming a sharp, inescapable that enveloped her.

    Countless Devil-Faced Spider corpses littered the ground¡ªover twenty by a rough estimate¡ªall felled by Qin Yao''s prowess.

    <i>Xiaofan went chasing after that Devil-Faced Spider King. I wonder if he caught up to it. </i>Qin Yao looked at the nest entrance as a light shed in her eyes.

    She knew Chen Fan had learned Wings of Rain Dragon and could fly like Yuanfu realm experts. However, the Devil-Faced Spider King was a tier-two demon beast, so it could fly at a breakneck speed.

    Nheless, she wasn¡¯t worried about Chen Fan. If he could not handle the Devil-Faced Spider King, the creature wouldn''t have attempted to flee in the first ce.

    <i>Tap!</i>

    Suddenly, a whirlwind stirred, lifting sand and rocks as Chen Fan entered the nest.

    He looked around and saw that Qin Yao was still busy killing the Devil-Faced Spiders, so he promptly joined the fray, his powerful attacks effortlessly annihting the creatures.

    In mere moments, the dozen or so Devil-Faced Spiders fell under thebined assault of Chen Fan and Qin Yao.

    ¡°Xiaofan, did the Devil-Faced Spider King escape?¡± Qin Yao asked.

    As Chen Fan had returned quickly, she subconsciously assumed he had failed to catch up to the beast.

    Chen Fan smiled at the question and took out the Devil-Faced Spider King¡¯s demon core. ¡°How could I let it escape? Take a look at this.¡±

    ¡°Demon core!¡±

    Qin Yao''s eyes gleamed with excitement. ¡°Xiaofan, you''re truly remarkable, defeating even tier-two demon beasts. Does that mean first-level Yuanfu realm experts stand no chance against you?¡±

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°Not exactly. Ordinary first-level Yuanfu realm martial artists are no match for me, but I can¡¯t easily kill the stronger first-level Yuanfu practitioners.¡±

    Two factors led to Chen Fan¡¯s victory: his superior strength and the fact that the Devil-Faced Spider King did not know martial arts. The spider had fought him, relying solely on its natural abilities and strong physique.

    Demon beasts¡¯ physiques were inherently stronger than human martial artists¡¯, giving them a significant advantage. However, in terms of martial arts, they were at a disadvantage.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s physical prowess resembled that of a beast in human form. So, the Devil-Faced Spider King had no apparent advantages, making its defeat by Chen Fan unsurprising.

    Had Chen Fan fought Wang Fuchen, they would likely have fought to a draw, each unable to gain the upper hand.

    After all, Wang Fuchen was the number one disciple of the Floating Cloud Sword Outer Sect and practiced powerful sword techniques. He was much stronger than the Devil-Faced Spider King.

    ¡°Being able to kill a first-level Yuanfu realm with only Qi Grandmaster cultivation is already impressive. People¡¯s jaws would drop if word of it spreads outside.¡± Qin Yaoughed.

    Chen Fan nodded.

    The difference in power between the Qigong and the Yuanfu realms was like an unbridgeable chasm.

    Not even Wang Fuchen could do something as heaven-defying as killing a Yuanfu realm powerhouse when he was a Qi Grandmaster.

    Chen Fan could only do so thanks to the uniquebination of his divine cultivation technique and his powerful physique.

    Dealing with the spider¡¯s silk and legs would have been troublesome without his tough physique. Without a weapon on him, his hands would have been tied when fighting the Devil-Faced Spider King, and he could have failed to kill it.

    ¡°Xiaofan, let¡¯s go look for a way out. Only a few days are left until our Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training ends. We need to ascertain the current situation outside and whether anyone has obtained the Ice Jade Snow Lotus,¡± Qin Yao said.

    Chen Fan shook his head. ¡°No hurries, Senior Sister. Although I can kill ordinary first-level Yuanfu realm experts, I can only fight geniuses like Wang Fuchen to a draw at best.

    ¡°He dares capture you to threaten me, nearly killing me. Senior Sister, even you had to jump off the cliff after me. That counts as indirectly killing you. I definitely won¡¯t let him go. My hatred will only be relieved after I kill him.

    "But I''m notpletely confident in taking him down yet. Before we go out and exact our revenge, I must refine this demon core and raise my strength further!¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    Qin Yao nodded, not objecting to his idea.

    Chen Fan wasted no time and casually tossed the Devil-Faced Spider King''s demon core into his mouth as if it were a piece of candy.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you...¡± Qin Yao¡¯s expression immediately changed at the sight.

    She had expected him to refine the demon core bit by bit; unexpectedly, he swallowed the demon core as is.

    Even Yuanfu realm powerhouses would be astonished under such circumstances, thinking he was a demon, as even they couldn¡¯t directly swallow demon cores.

    These cores contained demon qi, a foreign primeval qi that shed with their own, risking damage to meridians and dantians. At worst, it could lead to an explosion, turning them into ashes.

    Let alone Qi Grandmasters, even Yuanfu realm experts would only dissolve the demon cores using their primeval force, spending much time grinding away at it and slowly absorbing the essence within.

    Alchemists and Weaponsmiths, on the other hand, used their dan furnaces to refine demon cores into pills or weapon materials, extracting and refining the demon qi properly.

    No one would even think about swallowing the demon core as Chen Fan had done, as it was no different from seeking death.

    Qin Yao''s expression darkened at the sight, realizing the risks involved in such a reckless action.

 Chapter 107 - Slightly Lacking

    <h4>Chapter 107 - Slightly Lacking</h4>

    As Chen Fan''s primeval qi circted, the Devil-Faced Spider King''s demon core fell into the embryonic Heaven Seizing Furnace deep within his dantian.

    Under the furnace''s power, it gradually liquefied, unleashing the pure essence of its primeval force.

    Swallowing a demon core whole would be suicidal for others, but Chen Fan possessed an extraordinary capability.

    Despite the Heaven Seizing Furnace being embryonic, it already had the ability to refine.

    The demonic powers contained in the demon beast¡¯s demon core transformed into pure primeval qi of heaven and earth almost instantly under the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo¡¯s refinement.

    Unaware of these details, when Qin Yao saw Chen Fan swallowing the demon core, she immediately expressed her concern. ¡°Xiaofan, why did you do that? Quickly spit it out!¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Qin Yao and revealed a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Senior Sister. I¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯ll tell you the details after I¡¯m done refining it.¡±

    <i>Boom boom!</i>

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo erupted with vigor,va swirling as it worked on refining the demon core.

    It was a Yuanfu realm core and the furnace was still iplete, so the process couldn''t be instantaneous but proceeded rapidly.

    Noticing that Chen Fan''s aura remained stable, contrary to her expectations, Qin Yao ceased her protest. However, her beautiful eyes remained fixed on Chen Fan, looking deeply worried.

    Chaos reigned within Chen Fan, emitting a continuous crackling sound.

    As the demon core underwent refinement,rge amounts of heaven and earth primeval qi condensed. Deep inside his dantian, his primeval qi took on the hue ofva, transforming his dantian into a moltenva reservoir.

    Within the depths of thisva, the embryo of a furnace was growing.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace had started growing sturdily, conquering his dantian.

    Chen Fan''s acuity, perception, and vitality experienced a sudden and explosive surge.

    He could even sense the indomitable icy-cold me seed burning within Qin Yao''s dantian, exuding a potent destructive aura¡ªthe Bone Spirit me.

    Thunderous crackles emanated from Chen Fan, and his aura escted sharply. A force field appeared from him, expanding and distorting the surrounding air.

    The pure primeval qi, produced from the demon core''s refinement, flowed into the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo, fueling its growth.

    The embryo absorbed vast quantities of primeval qi, growing increasingly vtile. As the primeval qi surged, the aura of the surrounding primeval qi¡ªnow looking likeva¡ªrose even more, like a volcano about to erupt.

    Chen Fan''s aura became stronger, so the qi wave emanating from him also grew stronger. Under its impact, Qin Yao had to shield herself with ayer of primeval qi.

    The qi wave did manage to destroy the Devil-Faced Spider corpses and the surrounding rocks.

    If one looked deep inside Chen Fan¡¯s dantian, one would see that the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo had turned dark gold. Ancient patterns adorned its surface, and divine inscriptions were etched into its being.

    Every rune on the embryo emitted a sharp aura, apanied by the wailings of a demonic god.

    This embryo continued growing, gradually approaching perfection.

    Once the furnace wasplete, it seemed like even gods would get refined if they fell into it.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    After a while, Chen Fan¡¯s aura violently surged. A formidable qi wave swept out, shattering the primeval qi protectiveyer Qin Yao had erected. She was swept away and tumbled backward.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Chen Fan''s eyes opened, gleaming with a sharp light.

    ¡°Eh...¡±

    However, he swiftly reined in his aura, sighing lightly.

    His expectations had been too high. He had anticipated that a Yuanfu realm demon core wouldplete the Heaven Seizing Furnace, but it fell slightly short.

    Nevertheless, his strength had taken a significant step forward.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Xiaofan?¡± Qin Yao came over and asked, noting Chen Fan''s frown and sigh.

    Chen Fan smiled. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Things didn''t go as smoothly as I hoped.¡±

    ¡°Did you fail to achieve a breakthrough?¡± Qin Yao asked. However, she sensed Chen Fan had reached the middle stage, indicating a substantial breakthrough.

    Chen Fan answered, ¡°It¡¯s not that. My cultivation did improve greatly.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then, Xiaofan. Tell me, why did you swallow the demon core?¡± Qin Yao asked, switching topics.

    Few dared to attempt such a dangerous act, but Chen Fan not only dared to do so but also disyed indifference during the process. Remarkably, he sessfully refined the demon core, emerging unscathed. It was a miraculous feat.

    Chen Fan seriously said, ¡°I can share this with you, Senior Sister, but you must keep it a secret. Don''t disclose it to anyone, including Uncle Qin.¡±

    Qin Yao''s gaze mirrored the seriousness of the matter, but she promptly shook her head. ¡°Forget it, Xiaofan. It''s better if you don''t say anything. This is your deepest secret, and I won''t pry further.¡±

    She realized the connection between this secret and Chen Fan''s meteoric rise.

    Touched by his willingness to confide in her, she chose not to delve into the details, fearing she might unintentionally reveal it in the future, bringing cmity upon him.

    ¡°Alright then.¡± Chen Fan thought briefly and nodded, deciding to keep his secret.

    This was a grave matter.

    Even though he trusted Qin Yao, he deemed it wise to keep this secret from as many people as possible, including her father.

    After all, he was currently too weak.

    ¡°Senior Sister, I¡¯ll tell you when I am strong.¡±

    ¡°Mmm, alright, but Xiaofan, swallowing a demon core is a serious matter. Don¡¯t talk about it with others, okay?¡± Qin Yao warned.

    Chen Fan nodded and smiled, ¡°I know what I should or should not do.¡±

    ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s leave this ce now.¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    The two exited the Devil-Faced Spider nest, cultivating as they walked while searching for an exit.

    ......

    Chen Fan vaulted into the air, unleashing a Vajra Seal that struck a tier-one, ninth-level demon beast¡ªa five-meter-long pangolin¡ªmaking it vomit blood and die. He then plucked a few fist-sized green fruits from a dangerous cliff.

    These fruits were about the size of his fist, looking like they were carved out of emerald, teeming with primeval qi.

    ¡°Xiaofan, this is an Emerald Jade Fruit. It can be sold for a hundred primeval stones outside,¡± Qin Yao said, smiling.

    As an Alchemist, she recognized the fruit and listed its beneficial effects, particrly its ability to strengthen martial artists¡¯ physiques.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t consume it; instead, he gave it to Qin Yao. Emerald Jade Fruits were of little help to him but would be more beneficial for her.

    For two days, they navigated the surroundings for an exit, encountering formidable demon beasts and stumbling upon various natural treasures. Though not high-grade, the abundance of these treasures promised a lucrative fortune once sold.

    Both of them had storage rings, so they kept the treasures inside their storage rings.

    The Dragon Mountain Blessed Land lived up to its name, teeming with abundant treasures. As they traveled, they harvested treasures, like they were picking up berries from the ground, enjoying and never getting tired of the experience.

    Of course, their cultivation also improved greatly.

    Chen Fan consolidated his cultivation at the middle-stage of the Qi Grandmaster realm, while Qin Yao also became a middle-stage Qi Grandmaster, improving her strength greatly.

    As they searched, Chen Fan and Qin Yao discovered a treacherous crack where a mountain stream flowed. Emerging on the other side, illuminated by moonlight, they saw a swift river¡ªthe same one where Chen Fan encountered Mu Chen.

    ¡°We¡¯re out, Senior Sister. We¡¯ve finally made our way out!¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but let out an excited cheer when he saw the surging river.

    <i>I¡¯m out, Wang Fuchen. I¡¯m still alive! Wash your neck clean, and wait for me!</i>

 Chapter 108 - Ghost!

    <h4>Chapter 108 - Ghost!</h4>

    Dragon Mountain Peak:

    Qin Changkong looked haggard, and his eyes were bloodshot.

    One could tell he was distraught and irritated.

    Over the past few days, he had pestered Zhuo Bufan to adjust the primeval mirror''s viewing angle, meticulously scrutinizing every corner of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    Despite these efforts, there was no trace of Chen Fan and Qin Yao.

    He was simply unwilling to believe it.

    Chen Fan was dead.

    His daughter, Qin Yao, was also dead.

    How could this be possible?

    Hope lingered, but despair loomed closer.

    Zhuo Bufan and the others shared a simr sense of unease.

    Chen Fan had risen to prominence recently and showcased unparalleled talents by fiercely challenging Wang Fuchen, a Yuanfu realm expert, with only Qi Grandmaster cultivation.

    s, such an outstanding disciple had died just like that?

    Adding to the distress, Qin Yao, an Alchemist, had jumped to her death from the cliff.

    The perplexity of losing two extraordinary individuals weighed heavily on their minds.

    However, the elders of the other three great sects were rejoicing in their hearts.

    If Chen Fan were still alive, his genius would likely make him a leading figure, akin to Duan Jingtian, suppressing disciples from their sects.

    Since they couldn¡¯t get their hand on Chen Fan, his death was a preferable oue for them.

    However, the primeval mirror revealed a different story. Two Burning Incense Valley disciples cautiously navigated the dense forest, appearing weary and battered, their clothes torn.

    Suddenly, two figures appeared ahead of them. The disciples were immediately horrified, as if they were seeing ghosts.

    ¡°Xiaofan, Yaoyao!¡± Qin Changkong eximed in shock, rising to his feet while trembling uncontrobly.

    They were alive!

    Chen Fan and Qin Yao weren¡¯t dead.

    This was great. This was really great!

    Qin Changkong couldn''t contain his joy, venting it in a long shout.

    Zhuo Bufan and the others also saw this scene. Their eyes became wide like saucers; once they were no longer dazed, they broke out into smiles.

    ¡°Not dead. They''re actually not dead. Good. Very good. The heavens have blessed our Spring Autumn Sect!¡± Zhuo Bufan couldn¡¯t help butugh, clutching his palms together.

    The unexpected survival of Chen Fan and Qin Yao brought joy and relief to all.

    He was certain that they were not ghosts but the actual people.

    Leng Feng and the others also saw this. Their gazes instantly turned cold, emanating strong, icy killing intent.

    They were actually alive!

    How is this possible?

    Putting Qin Yao aside, Chen Fan had consumed the Blood Ignition Pill. All his blood had burned¡ªa process that should have left him unquestionably dead.

    The reality challenged their understanding of the situation, prompting them to rub their eyes as if they had witnessed a mirage.

    Chen Fan was indeed alive!

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± eximed a Floating Cloud Sword Sect elder.

    ¡°Miracle! This is simply a miracle!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Even if that kid got lucky after falling from the cliff and didn¡¯t turn into meat paste, all his blood had evaporated! How is he still alive?!¡±

    Puzzlement marked the faces of elders from Burning Incense Valley and Mountain River Sect.

    These elders¡¯ eyes shone in an instant, and they began making guesses.

    ¡°Could there be some fortuitous encounter under the Scarlet Cliff?¡±

    ¡°But what kind of fortuitous encounter could revive someone with all their blood burned out?¡±

    ¡°...¡±

    Despite their conjectures, the elders couldn''t fathom the true events beneath the cliff.

    Scarlet Cliff was shrouded and concealed by a mysterious power. Even Zhuo Bufan, a Core Formation expert, couldn¡¯t peer through its secrets and see the situation below.

    ¡°Haha, surviving a disaster brings great blessings! Good, our Spring Autumn Sect will surely get first ce on this trip to Dragon Mountain Blessed Land!¡±

    Zhuo Bufan didn¡¯t try to guess what happened to Chen Fan and Qin Yao.

    Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, being an otherworldly paradise, allowed for unexpected urrences, making their survival usible.

    The news of Chen Fan and Qin Yao''s survival was the best oue for the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The Spring Autumn Sect now had a chance to seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus and contest for first ce.

    Winning first ce would grant the sect abundant cultivation resources for three years.

    ......

    Dragon Mountain Blessed Land:

    ¡°Gh-Ghost!¡±

    The two Burning Incense Valley disciples hade out of the dense forest, spotting Chen Fan and Qin Yao walking along the beach. Overwhelmed with fear, they mistook the living for ghosts and screamed in terror, shattering the night''s silence.

    The two disciples had just escaped a dangerous area; unexpectedly, they ran into Chen Fan and Qin Yao at night.

    Believing Chen Fan and Qin Yao were dead after jumping off Scarlet Cliff, the disciples, now panicked, pleaded for mercy. Goosebumps appeared on their skin; their hairs stood on ends as they tried to run away.

    As they ran, they begged for mercy. ¡°Every injustice has its perpetrator, and it¡¯s not our fault! Wang Fuchen caused your deaths! If you want revenge, find him! Don¡¯te to us...¡±

    ¡°Stop right there!¡±

    Chen Fan had a helpless look on his face.

    <i>Aren¡¯t these two a little too timid?</i>

    <i>Let alone the fact that I am not a ghost, even if I am, a martial artist shouldn¡¯t be scared of one.</i>

    <i>What a disgrace to the Burning Incense Valley.</i>

    The two Burning Incense Valley disciples, hearing Chen Fan''s shout, feared an impending attack and sprinted even faster, desperately wishing for additional legs.

    In a surprising move, one disciple struck the other with a palm strike, using him as a meat shield and pleading, ¡°If you want to kill someone, kill him. Please let me go...¡±

    The sacrificed disciple, now a human shield, vomited blood in anger, facing unexpected betrayal. A look of despair showed on his face.

    Chen Fan skillfully used his primeval qi, transforming it into arge that captured the disciple. Now, the betrayed disciple stood before him.

    This person shut his eyes tightly, trembling like a leaf in a storm, with a paleplexion, seemingly utterly resigned.

    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re a martial artist. And since you are here, you must be a genius disciple in Burning Incense Valley¡¯s outer sect. You shouldn''t be scared, even if we were ghosts,¡± Chen Fan said helplessly.

    ¡°If you¡¯re going to kill me, then make it qui¡ªhuh? What did you say? You¡¯re not a ghost?¡±

    This Burning Incense Valley disciple suddenly opened his eyes, studying Chen Fan. After sensing Chen Fan''s warmth and noticing his shadow under the moonlight, he revealed a look of joy, as if he had just survived a huge disaster.

    ¡°I was scared to death, you know? You scared me! I thought you were ghosts! Did you have to scare people like that? Don¡¯t you know scaring someone like that can kill them?¡±

    This person immediately startedining.

    ......

    As the disciple continued his protest, the elders of Burning Incense Valley, witnessing the scene, felt their faces flush with embarrassment.

    The shameful incident left them wishing for a ce to hide.

    They had thrown all their sect¡¯s face away!

 Chapter 109 - Black Sea Demon Cave

    <h4>Chapter 109 - ck Sea Demon Cave</h4>

    ¡°Hey, are you doneining?¡±

    Chen Fan interrupted the ceaseless chatter of the Burning Incense Valley disciple. His powerful aura descended, suppressing the person like a mountain.

    Feeling the formidable aura, the disciple stiffened and hastily looked up, pleading for mercy. ¡°Don¡¯t kill me, don¡¯t kill me! I don¡¯t want to die yet.¡±

    Rolling his eyes, Chen Fan retracted his aura. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t kill you. I just want to ask you a few questions.¡±

    He was never one to kill the innocent indiscriminately.

    He would only show no mercy to his enemies and would consider every possible means to exact revenge. That was what Chen Fan was like.

    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re not killing me! That¡¯s great! What do you want to ask? Just go ahead and ask whatever. I won¡¯t hide anything from you,¡± said the Burning Incense Valley disciple eagerly, relieved.

    Chen Fan asked, ¡°How many days are left until the end of the training at Dragon Mountain Blessed Land?¡±

    Although Chen Fan and Qin Yao had survived jumping off the Scarlet Cliff, they had lost consciousness when they fell, so they were unaware of how they reached the dragon blood pool or the duration of their stay.

    ¡°Ah, there are still five days left,¡± blurted the Burning Incense Valley disciple, afraid Chen Fan would get offended and kill him if he answered slowly.

    Chen Fan nodded and asked, ¡°How many people have broken through to the Yuanfu realm in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land?¡±

    They had spent four to five days in the spider¡¯s nest. During this period, those fortunate enough might have stumbled upon opportunities, resulting in a surge in their cultivation.

    It was also possible that someone had broken their shackles and stepped into the Yuanfu realm, like Zhong Li.

    The disciple replied, ¡°As far as I know, it seems Wang Fuchen is still the only one, but Zhong Li, Chu Qing, and Xuan Feixue all seemed to have gone into secluded cultivation somewhere. They should have obtained something great.¡±

    Those three were Qi Grandmaster experts from the three great sects. After ten days in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, they must have obtained plenty of benefits.

    They would try to raise their cultivation levels to contest the Ice Jade Snow Lotus and their final rankings.

    They were only a step away from the Yuanfu realm. They might have obtained precious herbs or fruits, enabling them to break through.

    ¡°Onest question.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze suddenly turned sharp like a sword, piercing into this Burning Incense Valley disciple¡¯s mind, making him feel like thousands of swords stabbed his heart.

    <i>So scary... </i>thought the disciple.

    ¡°Where is Wang Fuchen?¡± Chen Fan asked coldly, his tone filled with killing intent.

    He had to kill Wang Fuchen!

    He could no longer wait to find Wang Fuchen to seek revenge.

    Though suspecting Wang Fuchen was close to the ck Sea Demon Cave, Chen Fan sought confirmation to avoid any mistakes.

    ¡°Ah? You¡¯re going to look for Wang Fuchen?¡±

    The question surprised this Burning Incense Valley disciple. <i>Is he tired of living? You should hide if you didn¡¯t die from that disaster and wait for the training to end. Are you thinking about taking revenge on Wang Fuchen? That¡¯s simply looking for death!</i>

    ¡°Speak!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly.

    The disciple shivered and hurriedly said, ¡°I heard he led a group of his sect¡¯s disciples to the ck Sea Demon Cave three days ago, likely aiming for the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. However, I don''t know if he''s still there.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Alright, you can go.¡±

    The disciple immediately ran away frantically.

    Qin Yao smiled and said, ¡°Xiaofan, it looks like they all think we¡¯re dead and have be ghosts. Those two Burning Incense Valley disciples earlier looked terrified.¡±

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Can¡¯t me them. Falling from Scarlet Cliff would typically lead to certain death. However, those two Burning Incense Valley disciples are overly timid for martial artists. They''ve brought shame to their sect. I wonder if their elders are vexed at their behavior.¡±

    ¡°Where do we go now? To the ck Sea Demon Cave?¡± Qin Yao asked.

    Wang Fuchen had gone to the ck Sea Demon Cave three days ago, aiming for the Ice Jade Snow Lotus necessary to obtain the first ce.

    However, many demon beasts gathered in the ck Sea Demon Cave, and ck Flood Dragons ruled the cave. It was much stronger than the Devil-Faced Spider King, so Wang Fuchen couldn¡¯t obtain the Ice Jade Snow Lotus easily.

    Furthermore, no one had heard from Wang Fuchen in the past three days, so his group should still be inside the cave.

    ¡°Of course. Wang Fuchen has already spent three days inside that perilous cave. If he dared to venture there, he must be confident in obtaining the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. We¡¯ll head over there, kill him, and snatch the Ice Jade Snow Lotus he had so much trouble obtaining.¡±

    An icy cold light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He very much wanted to witness Wang Fuchen''s face upon exiting the ck Sea Demon Cave with the lotus but seeing him outside.

    What would Wang Fuchen look like after he had snatched the lotus from him?

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯lle with you,¡± Qin Yao said.

    Chen Fan epted her assistance readily.

    Qin Yao was strong, and when confronting Wang Fuchen, she could handle the other disciples from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    With their decision made, the duo confirmed their direction and sped off.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!</i>

    Two figures traversed the moonlitndscape, swiftly passing through rivers, paths, forests,kes, grasnds, swamps, and deep mountains. Along the way, they encountered astonished onlookers.

    Chen Fan and Qin Yao hurried toward the ck Sea Demon Cave, determined to make Wang Fuchen pay dearly. Their goal was to render Wang Fuchen''s efforts in obtaining the Ice Jade Snow Lotus futile.

    ¡°The ck Sea Desert is just ahead!¡±

    After a night-long run, Chen Fan finally spotted the expansive desert on the horizon.

    The yellow sand stretched for miles, adorned with countless dunes and mountains, creating a destendscape.

    Various vegetation, including towering cacti, cereus, and Eyries Cactuses, popted the desert. Some cacti rivaled the height of multiple individuals stacked together, resembling sky-reaching trees. The Eyries Cactuses surpassed the size of houses.

    Chen Fan extended his senses slightly and discovered some hidden demon qi deep in the desert.

    Beneath the sand, demon beasts lurked, including snakes, poisonous scorpions, desert centipedes, venomous insects, sand foxes, and sand wolves.

    However, these demon beasts were all very low leveled, only at tier-one, third- or fourth-level. They didn¡¯t have the qualifications to cultivate inside the ck Sea Demon Cave.

    Chen Fan did not pay attention to these weak demon beasts or waste any time on them. He and Qin Yao charged into the desert, charged into the desert''s depths, searching for the ck Sea Demon Cave.

    Armed with a rough map of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, they swiftly navigated based on the markings on it.

 Chapter 110 - Waiting Idly for Opportunity

    <h4>Chapter 110 - Waiting Idly for Opportunity</h4>

    The vast deserty nearly untouched by human presence, its domain dominated by demon beasts. Thendscape featured intricate geographical formations and a severe climate.

    Chen Fan and Qin Yao ventured into this deste expanse, encountering a fierce windstorm after traversing a thousand miles.

    Tornadoes raged in every direction, shrouding the sun and casting the entire sky in a swirling dance of sand and gravel.

    The wind propelled the sand and gravel with tremendous force, hitting Chen Fan and Qin Yao¡¯syer of protective primeval qi to generate sparks.

    The fine yellow sand, whipped by the powerful winds, swirled relentlessly. After countless rotations and elerations, it could nearly pierce through steel.

    Fortunately, the duo were Qi Grandmasters, so their primeval qi was robust.

    If they had still been at the eighth level, Chen Fan would have been fine because of his strong physique, but Qin Yao would have be ader.

    The unforgiving desert climate spared no one, not even the other creatures in the blessednd.

    When the tornadoes arrived, even some desert demon beasts with thicker skins had to fearfully burrow deep under the sand, possibly diving into underground rivers to escape the sandstorm''s fury.

    Exposing swords and des to the tempest for an extended period would strip off ayer of fine steel, illustrating the destructive force of the sandstorm.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan jumped and grabbed at the empty space, destroying dozens of thick tornadoes with his primeval qi.

    Sensing moisture in the air after extending his primeval qi, he informed Qin Yao, "Senior Sister, the ck Sea Demon Cave should be just ahead."

    The duo darted in that direction.

    His protective primeval qi formed a spherical shield around him, preventing any tornado from hitting them.

    Flying for approximately two to three thousand kilometers, he realized no more sandstorms were around.

    In the distance, they could see a vast sea in the heart of the desert. This ocean, pitch-ck and weighty, surged with towering ck waves. A mist hung above the sea, concealing the view beyond and obscuring the ends.

    There was a sea in the middle of a desert¡ªit was a natural marvel.

    ¡°So, this is the ck Sea. And ck Sea Demon Cave should be...¡± Chen Fan remarked as Qin Yao joined him, standing shoulder to shoulder. They gazed at the vast, pitch-ck sea, its expanse seemingly endless.

    How could a sea in the middle of a desert be anything other than amazing?

    The enormity of the sea, stretching to the horizon, left them both in awe.

    ¡°This is the holynd the demon beasts in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land worship. Countless powerful demon beasts live in this sea, with the ck Flood Dragon species reigning as king over the ck Sea Demon Cave,¡± Qin Yao said.

    Chen Fan nodded.

    The sect had given them a little booklet containing some information on Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, such as maps, to help them grasp the overall situation inside.

    ¡°What should our next step be, Xiaofan? Do you want to enter the ck Sea Demon Cave to take a look?¡± asked Qin Yao, her head tilted.

    No one else was present in their vicinity except the two of them. The depth of the ck Sea Demon Cave obscured any auras, making it impossible for them to sense whaty beneath.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°No need; it should be dangerous. Although we¡¯re strong, it wouldn¡¯t bode well for us if we¡¯re surrounded and attacked by hordes of demon beasts.¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t rush in recklessly. ¡°I can vaguely sense faint fluctuations emanating from below. Wang Fuchen¡¯s group is still down there, trying to seize the lotus. Let¡¯s find a good hiding spot. We''ll act as the oriole behind and take it from them when they leave the cave.¡±

    The ck Sea Demon Cave must be in chaos right now.

    Securing the Ice Jade Snow Lotus was no easy feat. Perhaps Wang Fuchen and the others were already fighting the demon beasts inside.

    If the two of them went down right now, wouldn¡¯t that draw the fire away from them?

    He wasn¡¯t that dumb!

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll follow your decision for everything,¡± Qin Yao nodded and said.

    ¡°Come on, Senior Sister. Let''s find an inconspicuous hiding spot and await Wang Fuchen''s group. Let¡¯s prepare to give them the surprise of a lifetime,¡± Chen Fan said, smiling coldly.

    Surveying the area, he spotted a dune and led Qin Yao toward it. The dune''s strategic location allowed them to observe the ck Sea Demon Cave while maintaining awareness of their surroundings. Positioned for attack or retreat, they could monitor all aspects of their surroundings.

    The two settled behind the dune, patiently awaiting their prey.

    ......

    ¡°Hoho, Sect Master Zhuo, disciples from your sect really aren¡¯t afraid of death, are they? Are they really trying to set up an ambush? How funny.¡± Leng Feng remarked, looking at the primeval mirror. Seeing Chen Fan and Qin Yao arrive at the ck Sea Demon Cave and hide behind a dune, evidently preparing to ambush Wang Fuchen''s group, heughed coldly.

    Zhuo Bufan, Qin Changkong, and the others furrowed their brow, finding this situation unexpected too.

    After surviving a great disaster, Chen Fan and Qin Yao had immediately headed to the ck Sea Demon Cave to seek revenge on Wang Fuchen. However, could those two really fight a Yuanfu realm expert like Wang Fuchen?

    How were their actions any different from seeking death?

    It was no wonder Leng Feng would mock them.

    ¡°Hoho,ugh all you want, Elder Leng Feng. I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t get a chanceter.¡± Zhuo Bufan retorted, refusing to disy weakness on the Spring Autumn Sect''s behalf.

    He knew that Chen Fan and Qin Yao weren¡¯t impulsive; they must have a n since they dared to go to the ck Sea Demon Cave.

    Even though Wang Fuchen is formidable, he would have to pay a price to take the Ice Jade Snow Lotus from all those demon beasts. This should y in Chen Fan and Qin Yao¡¯s favor.

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo is still holding out for a stroke of luck. Let¡¯s see who will beughing in the end,¡± Leng Feng said, his wordsced with icy disdain.

    ......

    As Chen Fan and Qin Yao arrived at the ck Sea Demon Cave, news of the two being alive spread rapidly, leaving many astonished.

    None had expected them to survive the fall¡ªit was a miracle.

    In particr, Chen Fan''s survival after all his blood hadbusted defied all logic.

    In a distant valley, He Junyang and Bing Ye stood together.

    Another figure came running to them.

    ¡°What¡¯s the situation outside like, Yang Feng?¡± asked He Junyang immediately.

    Yang Feng said, raising his eyebrow, ¡°I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t believe it even if I told you. Chen Fan and Qin Yao are still alive!¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Astonishment shed across He Junyang and Bing Ye''s faces. He Junyang said, ¡°How is that possible? They jumped off the Scarlet Cliff, and it wasn¡¯t like they were Yuanfu realm experts. How could they possibly survive that? Even if Qin Yao survived, Chen Fan should surely be dead. Are you kidding me?¡±

    ¡°I am not joking around; it¡¯s true. The news has spread everywhere. Some people have seen Chen Fan and Qin Yao. They are indeed still alive,¡± Yang Feng said.

    He Junyang furrowed and said icily, ¡°Damn it, that little bastard is still alive after all that? He¡¯s fortunate. But it¡¯s good that he¡¯s not dead. Our boss is about to exit secluded cultivation soon. He will personally kill that rat after bing a Yuanfu realm expert. Let¡¯s see how he survives that!¡±

    ¡°Mhm.¡± Yang Feng nodded, smiling coldly.

    He survived that great disaster.

    So what?

    Since he didn¡¯t die the first time around, they just had to kill him again.

 Chapter 111 - Me!

    <h4>Chapter 111 - Me!</h4>

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The seawater tidepped against the shore, carrying a cold air reminiscent of millennium-old ice.

    Despite the low temperatures, the seawater resisted freezing, maintaining its pitch-ck hue¡ªdistinct from ordinary oceanic waters.

    Behind the dune, Chen Fan looked at the endless ck sea and whispered, ¡°In this seawater, that ck qi is the nefarious yin qi from the cold and dark underground.¡±

    His insight gradually grew, discerning the specific type of nefarious qi within the seawater.

    The underground ck nefarious yin qi manifested as a cold tide, detrimental to humans but serving as a tonic for certain aquatic demon beasts akin to the earth''s essence.

    Mixed in the seawater, the nefarious yin qi made some aquatic demon beasts stronger and more ferocious.

    Numerous creatures inhabited the dark and gloomy seabed within the ck Sea Demon Cave''s depths.

    Theserge, peculiar, fang-bearing fish absorbed the ck nefarious yin qi from the water and condensed it into water-attributed qi.

    Naturally strong, they engaged in frequent battles within the waters, adhering to the principle of the strong preying on the weak¡ªa concept applicable not only to human society but also to demon beasts.

    The ck Sea Demon Cave''s monolithic depth increased the peril, with more ferocious demon beasts lurking in its recesses.

    Numerous hard-to-notice holes at the seabed continuously released seawater, each concealing an underground river.

    Deep within the sea, expansive canyons, spanning thousands of miles, housed powerful auras in hibernation.

    Further away, one could see the faint signs of an underwater city¡ªck Flood Dragon Pce.

    ck Flood Dragons were naturally born intelligent and maintained order in the seabed, much like how humans governed their cities.

    However, the seabed wasn¡¯t tranquil right now.

    Qi ripples emanated from the ck Flood Dragon Pce as swift and fierce sword qi shed through the seawater.

    A ck Flood Dragon blew the horn, sounding the rm along the water current.

    All kinds of demon beasts rushed over at incredible speed¡ªswift sailfish, ferocious crocodiles, and more.

    Inside the ck Flood Dragon Pce, Wang Fuchen¡¯s white clothes fluttered, making him look like an immortal from the heavens as he wielded his sword. Thousands of sword lights spread out to form an inescapable, targeting a mighty ck Flood Dragon.

    The ck Flood Dragon King of the ck Flood Dragon Pce was a tier-two demon beast.

    The ck Flood Dragon King opened its mouth wide and spat out a cold, ck nefarious force that froze everything, sealing Wang Fuchen¡¯s and shattering it.

    ¡°Human, withdraw quickly, and I may overlook this. Otherwise, prepare to die!¡± roared the ck Flood Dragon King.

    Wang Fuchen chuckled and said, ¡°ck Flood Dragon King, hand over the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, and I¡¯ll leave immediately.¡±

    ¡°Not a chance!¡± firmly said the ck Flood Dragon King.

    Natural treasures weren¡¯t useful to humans alone; demon beasts could also use them to raise their levels. There was no reason for the dragon to hand over a precious treasure like the Ice Jade Snow Lotus to the damnable human in front of it.

    Aware of Wang Fuchen''s formidable power, the ck Flood Dragon King grudgingly contemted its options.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re reluctant, ck Flood Dragon King, I have no choice but to take it myself. Of course, I will have to take your life, too.¡±

    Wang Fuchenughed coldly, driving his primeval force and infusing it into his sword. With a swoosh, he turned into a blur, and the water currents failed to stop him.

    ¡°Hatred for Man!¡±

    An icy cold voice rang out.

    The ck Flood Dragon King winced as a long bloody gash appeared on it, apanied by a peculiar force preventing the wound from healing.

    ¡°Argh, you damned human. You¡¯ve wounded me! I¡¯m going to swallow you whole and refine you!¡± The enraged ck Flood Dragon King convulsed, making the seawater surge toward Wang Fuchen.

    The entire ck Flood Dragon Pce erupted into a massive battle in a split second.

    ......

    ¡°Haha, Senior Brother Fuchen is indeed powerful. Despite the ck Flood Dragon King¡¯s extraordinary strength, it met its end regretfully beneath his sword.¡±

    In the aftermath of the sh, amid a sea stained with red blood, Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples collected loot while sucking up to Wang Fuchen. The corpses of many ck Flood Dragons and strange fish demon beasts floated in the water.

    ¡°That¡¯s for sure. A mere ck Flood Dragon King is no match for Senior Brother Fuchen.¡±

    ¡°With Senior Brother Fuchen around, our Floating Cloud Sword Sect deserves the first ce in this Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training. Given his unmatched talents, he would soon trample Duan Jingtian of the Spring Autumn Sect and bring glory to our sect.¡±

    ¡°Life is good following Senior Brother Fuchen.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Wang Fuchen had in the ck Flood Dragon King, but he wasn¡¯t unscathed, as his opponent belonged to a mighty species of demon beasts. His pristine white clothes were now torn, and he had several wounds.

    Holding the coveted Ice Jade Snow Lotus¡ªthis examination¡¯s objective, emitting waves of cold air¡ªWang Fuchen signaled that it was time to depart from the blessednd.

    At the training''s conclusion, the Ice Jade Snow Lotus determined the winning challenger and sect. It would also be the possession of the individual holding it.

    ¡°Finished packing? Let''s go. It''s time to leave,¡± Wang Fuchen said inly.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples hurriedly followed after him.

    ¡°Senior Brother Fuchen, we can¡¯t keep the Ice Jade Snow Lotus inside our storage rings or pouches. Moreover, I heard leaders from the other three great sects entered seclusion, likely attempting to advance to the Yuanfu realm. They might have seeded. We should be cautious; they might try to snatch it from us," warned a peak-stage, eighth-level youth.

    Wang Fuchen said indifferently, ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. If they dare to snatch it, no one can me me for being ruthless and killing them all.¡±

    ¡°How domineering!¡±

    ¡°As expected of Senior Brother Fuchen!¡± his fellow disciples chimed in, eager to praise him.

    ......

    ¡°Xiaofan, why is there still no movement? Could Wang Fuchen''s group have obtained the Ice Jade Snow Lotus and left long ago,¡± Qin Yao asked.

    The pair had been waiting for half a day.

    Considering Wang Fuchen and the others arrived three days ago, they should have secured the Ice Jade Snow Lotus by now. Yet, there was no sign of any activity.

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer.¡±

    Chen Fan said, ¡°If there are still no signs of movement, then I¡¯ll go down to see what¡¯s going¡ª¡±

    He had suddenly paused mid-sentence, his eyes zing with an intense light. Coldly, he dered, "They''re out."

    With his words, sshing noises echoed, and several figures emerged from the ck Sea¡ªWang Fuchen and his group.

    ¡°Haha, we¡¯re finally out. It¡¯s too freaking cold and dark down there. Ufortable as hell,¡±ined one as soon as they surfaced.

    ¡°Hehe, we¡¯ve got the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in our hands. Now we just have to wait for the training to end to receive first ce and win glory for our sect. We¡¯ll be promoted to inner sect disciples next year,¡± said another disciple excitedly.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    However, a sharp noise cut through the air, and a Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple exploded into bits, shocking Wang Fuchen and the others. Swiftly, their sharp gazes scanned the surroundings.

    ¡°Who is it? Show yourselves!¡± Wang Fuchen shouted coldly, his gaze iparably fierce. A terrifying aura erupted from him, sweeping out.

    ¡°Me!¡±

    Chen Fan rose from behind the sand dune, his voice resonating through heaven and earth.

 Chapter 112 - Battling Wang Fuchen Again

    <h4>Chapter 112 - Battling Wang Fuchen Again</h4>

    ¡°Is he a human or a ghost?¡±

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples following Wang Fuchen jumped in fright when they saw Chen Fan. However, unlike the two terrified Burning Incense Valley disciples, the Sword Sect disciples disyed ferocious expressions.

    Wang Fuchen narrowed his eyes and said, ¡°You¡¯re still alive!¡±

    Chen Fan''s appearance here had caught him off guard.

    Surviving a fall from the bottomless Scarlet Cliff seemed imusible, especially for someone made of flesh and blood. The fall and the fact that he should have no blood should have ensured Chen Fan''s demise.

    Yet, there he stood, defying expectations.

    In front of them was a living, breathing Chen Fan¡ªa fact Wang Fuchen couldn''t deny.

    ¡°How could I die when you¡¯re still alive?¡± Chen Fan''s narrowed eyes emitted a dangerous light, prompting a chuckle from Wang Fuchen.

    While Chen Fan''s survival was unforeseen, Wang Fuchen chose to attribute it to luck rather than dwell on the details.

    ¡°You really have a death wish, don¡¯t you?¡± Wang Fuchen asked, amusement evident. "Surviving Scarlet Cliff was a stroke of luck, yet here you are, presenting yourself at our doorstep. Are you tired of living?"

    Wang Fuchen looked at Chen Fan with a faint smile and mocked, ¡°If I were you, I''d have hidden in a hole, preserved my cheap life until training ended after surviving a disaster like that.

    ¡°But no, you had to seek death and show up at my doorstep. That¡¯s fine. Since you didn''t diest time, I''ll kill you once more. Let''s see if you''ll be so lucky this time.¡±

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s cold killing intent spread out, creating a whirlwind that lifted the sand and made it sh with itself, producing a cacophony.

    ¡°Kill me again?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly. His narrowed eyes suddenly widened, an icy light shooting out like a sharp sword. ¡°You¡¯re thinking too highly of yourself.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, anyone can talk big.¡± Wang Fuchenughed disdainfully. He stepped forth, and a shocking and suffocating aura rose.

    Over the past few days, his cultivation had stabilized, making him stronger.

    ¡°Senior Brother Fuchen, you don¡¯t have to lift a finger this time. Leave this little bastard to us,¡± dered the other Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples, advancing to attack Chen Fan.

    ¡°Little bastard, you just had to barge into hell when the path to heaven is open and make things difficult for yourself. This time, Senior Brother Fuchen won¡¯t need to make a move. The few of us here are enough to kill you again!¡±

    ¡°Hundred Mountain Splitting Heavy Sword, die!¡±

    ¡°Sword Light Shivers Neen States!¡±

    The four Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples¡ªa Qi Grandmaster and the other three at the peak of the eighth level¡ªsimultaneously unleashed swift and fierce sword techniques, their sword qi piercing the sky.

    However, Chen Fan suddenly shifted, producing a booming explosion as if space itself had erupted. A chaotic white qi current appeared where he was standing.

    ¡°ept your death, Wang Fuchen!¡±

    Chen Fan''s gaze remained solely on Wang Fuchen from the beginning, ignoring the other Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples.

    Undefeated King¡¯s Fist gave him three heads and six arms that easily broke the four Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples¡¯ attacks with loud rumbling noises.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Berserk qi surged in all directions. It carried a ferocious sword aura that left multiple sword marks, each exceeding a hundred meters in length, etched into the sandy ground.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    Wang Fuchen''s eyes twitched as he moved to intervene, but it was toote.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Miserable screams echoed as the four disciples'' attacks were destroyed.

    Among the four Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples, the two at the peak of the eighth level exploded into a bloody mist. The chests of the other two caved in, and they flew hundreds of meters away, crashing onto the ground. Blood spewed out violently from their mouths, along with pieces of their organs.

    In the blink of an eye, two disciples were dead, and twoy heavily injured. Despite their sacrifice, they failed to impede Chen Fan, making their sacrifices inconsequential.

    Chen Fan swiftly closed the distance, reaching Wang Fuchen.

    Wang Fuchen hadn¡¯t expected that his four junior brothers would fail to block Chen Fan; he looked astonished.

    He quickly regained hisposure, however. He thrust his right hand forward, releasing primeval force that transformed into sharp swords, piercing through everything.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Another chain of intense explosions rang out. The qi went berserk, and gales raged.

    ¡°Shatter!¡±

    Chen Fan remained firm like a mountain, his gaze fierce.

    His vigorous primeval qi gushed out, and his physique became sturdy as steel. Strength emanated from deep within his bone marrow as he threw a punch, seemingly capable of breaking through the heavens and annihting everything.

    ¡°Ninth level? He is a Qi Grandmaster!¡±

    A faint ripple finally surfaced in Wang Fuchen¡¯s icy cold gaze.

    Chen Fan had not only survived the disaster but also became a Qi Grandmaster. He had genuinely be a Qi Grandmaster without relying on a Blood Ignition Pill.

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±

    Chen Fan admitted, coldly smiling. ¡°Did you think I would seek revenge without assurance?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I do have to admit that you¡¯re really lucky. But you lost to me even when you used the Blood Ignition Pill to be a peak Qi Grandmaster forcibly. Now you¡¯re only a middle-stage Qi Grandmaster, even weaker than before, yet you bber about revenge?¡±

    Wang Fuchen''sughter dripped with ridicule, but Chen Fan remained unfazed.

    "You''ll find out soon enough whether I''m boasting," he dered.

    While his current cultivation level wasn''t as high as when he had used the Blood Ignition Pill, hisbat strength had more than doubled.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan wasted no time on words, stepping forth again, his aura rapidly escting.

    He also activated Myriad Elephants Divine Art. All his muscles bulged, his tendons and bones cracked, and his aura was like that of a god of war.

    An intense pressure swept out, making Wang Fuchen narrow his eyes.

    He hadn¡¯t felt this pressure even when Chen Fan had consumed the Blood Ignition Pill.

    Although his cultivation level had improved since then and Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was still below his, it gave him such pressure that his heart tightened uncontrobly.

    This exined why Chen Fan hadn''t chosen to hide but sought him out¡ªhe had be significantly stronger.

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t using a weapon; his physique was the strongest weapon.

    With Myriad Elephants Divine Art activated, he became resilient as if his tendons were made of steel and his bones of iron, impervious to harm from weapons.

    Every punch, palm, and kick carried tremendous force, seemingly capable of easily shattering a small mountain.

    <i>Dong, dong, dong!</i>

    Thunderous sounds echoed, akin to the beat of war drums, as Chen Fan charged at Wang Fuchen like a meteorite with three heads and six arms. His momentum was unrivaled, majestic, and exuded certainty of victory; his eyes were filled with icy killing intent.

 Chapter 113 - Different from the Past

    <h4>Chapter 113 - Different from the Past</h4>

    ¡°Something is off about this little bastard!¡±

    If they closed their eyes, they couldn''t even tell if the one before them was a human or an ancient ferocious beast from the aura alone. The pressure was just that intense.

    ¡°Did he obtain some heavenly blessing below after surviving the fall? His physique has be so strong, like a treasure! He¡¯s a walking weapon!¡±

    Wang Fuchen also had keen insight and immediately realized that the intense pressure was emanating from Chen Fan¡¯s physique.

    After all, in terms of cultivation level, Chen Fan was only at the ninth level.

    Wang Fuchen was in the Yuanfu realm, so Chen Fan couldn''t have pressured him so with his cultivation alone.

    Unfortunately, Wang Fuchen had no time to contemte.

    Chen Fan was charging at him. The swift gusts were so sharp that when they struck his cheeks, he felt pain.

    He moved his finger, releasing primeval force that transformed into a huge and shrouded Chen Fan.

    Banging noises rang out as Chen Fan¡¯s attacks fell on the huge and exploded.

    Wang Fuchen tossed the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in the air, and primeval force enveloped it. The primeval qi ball now floated behind him.

    After freeing his left hand, he drew his sword and wielded it freely. Streaks of cold sword qi shot out from his sword, gathering and shing at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Sword Light Shivers Neen States.¡±

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect was established with sword techniques at its center. Almost all the martial skills in the sect were sword techniques, and pretty much all their disciples used a sword. Very few chose to practice other types of martial skills.

    As the number one disciple of the Floating Cloud Sword Outer Sect, not only was Wang Fuchen¡¯s cultivation high, but he had also mastered numerous sword techniques to perfection.

    Others would need to spend months, if not years, practicing a powerful sword technique. However, he was exceptionally talented in the way of the sword and had mastered many skills without guidance from a mentor. He could use them expertly, showcasing his talent.

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword trembled. Wisps of primeval qi gathered on his sword, transforming into devastating sword light, before flying out. It expanded violently, and deep in the sword light, cities could be seen being reduced to ash.

    ¡°Vajra Seal, Chakravarti Seal!¡±

    Chen Fan formed the seals and drove his primeval qi, circting it. Vajra Seals materialized in one hand, and Chakravarti Seals in another before rushing out.

    The Vajra Seals suppressed the heavens, and the Chakravarti Seals turned the heavens around.

    ¡°Golden Light Palm!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s six arms struck out with a different, formidable martial skill.

    The six arms could only execute the six moves of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist initially. However, his mastery of the skill allowed him to use the six arms freely.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Fierce explosions resounded. The violent wind whistled, sweeping up sand that covered the sun and the sky.

    ¡°Hundred Mountain Splitting Heavy Sword!¡±

    Wang Fuchen soared into the skies like a roc spreading its wings before swooping down ferociously, bringing an intense gale down that pressed down on Chen Fan. The air around Chen Fan surged outward wildly, making the pressure skyrocket instantly.

    The pressure made the air seem like steel; it squeezed inward, emitting creaking noises.

    Wang Fuchen expertly wielded dual swords, unleashing a dazzling, cold sword light. Sword qi whirled around him, descending with force.

    <i>Chh!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sword''s descent created hundreds of ovepping silhouettes, seemingly capable of cleaving mountains and seas.

    ¡°All Winning, All Conquering, All Destroying.¡±

    Chen Fan roared to the skies. Primeval qi surged from his head, resembling the phenomenon that urred during one¡¯s ascension to the Qi Grandmaster realm. He soared into the sky with a single stomp, unleashing powerful blows with his six arms.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The sword silhouettes exploded one after another, turning into nothing.

    ¡°Rain of Sword Light, Storm of Pear Blossom,¡± Wang Fuchen shouted coldly.

    With a spin and a flick of his arm, his sword released a torrential rain of sword qi, akin to falling pear blossoms.

    ¡°All Defiant, Eternal Victory, Return as One!¡± Chen Fan roared.

    The six vivid arms behind him shook and struck repeatedly. His attacks rushed out, falling like a meteor shower, exploding violently, shattering the thousands of trees and pear blossoms.

    ¡°Hatred Asunder Sword Technique, Hatred for Man!¡±

    Suddenly, Wang Fuchen¡¯s retreated in an arc, like the horns of an antelope, not producing any noise with the wind and disappearing on the spot.

    Chen Fan instantly sensed grave danger.

    The Hatred Asunder Sword Technique, a genuine profound-tier martial skill, had boundless power.

    Wang Fuchen had used it once previously at Scarlet Cliff, showcasing its devastating force and a profound hatred epassing man, earth, and heaven.

    His mastery of the technique had grown since then, intensifying its destructive capability. He materialized in front of Chen Fan, shing toward his neck, and Chen Fan felt a sharp pain there.

    <i>So fast! </i>Chen Fan thought. His primeval qi stretched out, and he fell.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Wang Fuchen pivoted sharply, relentlessly pursuing.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    Chen Fan crouched as soon as hended and jumped up, rising into the skies again. He was so fast that as he moved through the air, rumbling noises rang in the area.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God''s Strength!¡±

    A grim light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Tendons and bones crackled as his strength coalesced into an earth-shaking force that propelled his punch, attacking Wang Fuchen.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    Explosions resounded continuously as Chen Fan''s fist collided with Wang Fuchen''s sword. However, Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword had also brokenyer afteryer of the punch¡¯s primeval qi and was now before its target.

    Like steel, his punch moved through the air, creating a shockwave reminiscent of a discharged cannonball, whipping up a fierce gust.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword was now before Chen Fan, but he had already exhausted his sword technique¡¯s power by breaking theyers of Chen Fan¡¯s punch.

    Facing Chen Fan¡¯s frantic punch, his sword let out a hum as it trembled violently. A terrifying force flowed through it, tearing Wang Fuchen¡¯s interdigital webbing and throwing him back.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan stomped, and he shot forth like a roc gliding, chasing after Wang Fuchen.

    With his cultivation technique active, the silhouettes of ancient wild elephants appeared behind him, hooting and crying. The godly strength of wild elephants gathered in his palm, and he punched out.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Sensing the impending crisis, Wang Fuchen swiftly shifted his position, avoiding the punch andnding on the ground with a stumble. He knew that if that attack hadnded, he would have exploded.

    <i>Whoosh.</i>

    Chen Fan descended, a cold smile on his face as he observed Wang Fuchen, whose expression had soured.

    ¡°Do you understand now who was talking big?¡± Chen Fan sneered coldly.

    Wang Fuchen remained silent, his expression growing colder and more unpleasant. Chen Fan''s newfound strength had left him powerless, teetering on the edge of a precarious situation.

    ¡°I must admit, Chen Fan, your current prowess poses a formidable challenge. So formidable that I don¡¯t think I can get rid of you,¡± said Wang Fuchen finally.

    He regained hisposure as if the earlier confrontation had never urred. ¡°But the reality is harsh like this. You¡¯re powerful, not one bit weaker than me. However, you are merely at the ninth level, while I am in the Yuanfu realm. This alone ces me in an unbeatable position.¡±

    Wang Fuchen slowly rose into the air, stepping on the void like a deity observing mortals from the lofty heights of the sky.

 Chapter 114 - Duan Jingtian

    <h4>Chapter 114 - Duan Jingtian</h4>

    Wang Fuchen ascended slowly into the air, casting a gaze down at Chen Fan.

    Yuanfu realm powerhouses could traverse the skies, navigating the heavens effortlessly.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re physically strong, I won¡¯t engage you in closebat," Wang Fuchen dered coldly. "Instead, I''ll stand here, attacking you from a distance. Your strikes won''t reach me, and victory will be mine regardless."

    Chen Fan''s robust physical prowesspensated for the disparity in their cultivation levels.

    ¡°Now... what¡¯s your move, Chen Fan?¡± Wang Fuchen''s indifferent voice echoed through the surroundings.

    With a sneer, Chen Fan responded nonchntly, "You''re afraid."

    ¡°Afraid?¡± Wang Fuchen raised his eyebrows, feeling a tinge of annoyance.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Why else would you keep your distance? You know you can''t match my strength, so you have to stay out of reach. Aren''t you afraid I''ll kill you with my punches?¡±

    Chen Fan''s words cut through the air like a sharp de, striking at the core of Wang Fuchen''s confidence. His handsome face twisted slightly, bing hideous.

    ¡°Why would I be scared of a Qi Grandmaster ant?¡± Wang Fuchen said stubbornly.

    Chen Fan taunted, ¡°Come down and fight me if you¡¯re not afraid. You seek my demise, and I seek yours!!¡±

    ¡°I can kill you all the same from here!¡± Wang Fuchen said matter-of-factly.

    ¡°What a joke, coward,¡± Chen Fan ridiculed directly.

    Wang Fuchen took a deep breath to calm himself. He smiled and said, ¡°No matter how clever your tongue, it won''t sway my determination.¡±

    ¡°Crazed Demon Sword Energy, die!¡± Wang Fuchen shouted coldly.

    Killing intent emanated from his eyes as his sword blurred into action, delivering thirteen consecutive shes. They all fused into one, forming a massive sword energy wielding absolute power. It cleaved a distant dune in two as it moved toward its target.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t use Wings of Rain Dragon immediately and assumed a stern expression.

    With a forceful push from his feet, he ascended into the sky.

    His fists, akin to bowls in size, burst forth fiercely like a meteor to counter the oing sword energy.

    Qi Grandmasters, restrained by gravity, couldn¡¯t step on the void. Consequently, Chen Fan plummeted from the heavens.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Seizing the moment, Wang Fuchen executed another sword strike while Chen Fan was still in mid-air.

    Primeval force streaked downward with the sword lights, creating a sweeping of shes.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Swift and agile, Chen Fan used the residual forces in the void, leaving multiple afterimages as he maneuvered between the sword lights.

    ¡°Dragon Fist.¡±

    Chen Fan unleashed an aerial assault from the ground. The force from his fist transformed into a dragon, hurtling toward its target from a distance.

    Being a Qi Grandmaster, Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi was vigorous and abundant. The force of his punch could span three thousand paces, striking with formidable impact.

    Wang Fuchen was no fool, so he wasn¡¯t about to wait for Chen Fan¡¯s attack to hit him. He dodged it easily and simultaneously executed a backhanded swing with his sword, sending a sharp de of light slicing through the air.

    ......

    On the Dragon Mountain Peak, the entirety of the ck Sea Demon Cave scene unfolded.

    ¡°Hoho, witnessing the prowess of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect''s genius disciple is truly enlightening," Zhuo Bufan remarked with a smirk. "First, he resorts to capturing the weak to intimidate others, and now he relies on his ability to step on the void to evade directbat. Impressive, indeed."

    His words wereced with mockery, directed not only at Wang Fuchen but also at the Floating Cloud Sword Sect as a whole. Leng Feng and the other elders wore ufortable expressions.

    Contempt for Wang Fuchen had already surfaced when he had taken Qin Yao hostage to threaten Chen Fan. Chen Fan survived and went looking for him to seek revenge, and yet Wang Fuchen relied on his higher cultivation to avoid battle, refusing head-on confrontation and relying on long-range strikes instead. It was a true disgrace to the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    ¡°Very impressive indeed. What more could one expect from their sect¡¯s number one? No ordinary person canpare to him.¡± Mountain River Sect¡¯s Cai Chixia immediately chimed in, not even trying to veil his mockery.

    Leng Feng and the other elders¡¯ faces were as dark as the bottom of a pot.

    ¡°For martial artists, strength is everything. Who cares about the method as long as goals are achieved? Moreover, Wang Fuchen is leveraging his cultivation advantage and avoiding unfavorable situations. Is it his fault that Chen Fan is only a Qi Grandmaster?¡± Leng Feng said coldly.

    ¡°Haha. Fighting to his advantage and avoiding disadvantageous situations. Making use of his cultivation level advantage. Well said.¡±

    Zhuo Bufanughed out loud,ying on his mockery even thicker.

    ¡°Oh, what could make the Sect Masterugh so hard?¡±

    Suddenly, a voice echoed, and a figure appeared on the Dragon Mountain Peak.

    Cloaked in blue attire, the neer exuded an air of refinement, boasting striking facial features and a fairplexion. His handsome appearance and refined demeanor left a positive impression on those present.

    Zhuo Bufan¡¯s eyebrow twitched at the sight of this youth. ¡°What brings you here?¡±

    ¡°Ipleted my mission and happened to pass by Dragon Mountain Peak when I heard Sect Masterughing, so I came to take a look.¡± The youth in blue smiled.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian.¡±

    The eyes of Leng Feng and all the elders from the other three great sects shrunk violently when they saw this youth.

    Duan Jingtian saluted Leng Feng and the others with cupped fists and said, ¡°Duan Jingtian greets the elders of the three great sects.¡±

    ¡°No need for that. We aren¡¯t worthy.¡± Leng Feng, ordinarily cold, adopted a gentler demeanor, dismissing the formalities with a wave.

    Duan Jingtian was a living legend renowned throughout the Great Chu Empire.

    He started practicing martial arts at age ten, became a Qi Grandmaster at thirteen, advanced to the Yuanfu realm at fourteen, and stepped into Core Formation at eighteen. Currently, at twenty-two years of age, rumors had it that he wasn¡¯t far from the Divine Nascent realm.

    Such a promising talent, aiming to enter the Divine Nascent realm before twenty-five, was exceptionally rare in the Great Chu Empire''s history.

    Duan Jingtian held the tenth spot on the empire''s list of top geniuses.

    Although Leng Feng and the others were esteemed elders, they recognized the prevailing truth¡ªstrength dictated respect.

    Duan Jingtian''s cultivation at such a young age surpassed theirs, leaving them unqualified to assert superiority in his presence.

    The status of elders was indeed very high in others¡¯ eyes, but to Duan Jingtian, they were only like ants.

    Even Zhuo Bufan spoke to Duan Jingtian on equal terms.

    Duan Jingtian chuckled, and his gaze fell onto the primeval mirror. ¡°That¡¯s Wang Fuchen? Not bad. I''ve heard of his extraordinary talent in swordsmanship, mastering numerous techniques and showing the potential to be the second Jian Chen in the future.¡±

    Jian Chen, the foremost disciple of the Floating Cloud Sword Inner Sect, held a stature in the Floating Cloud Sword Sectparable to Duan Jingtian''s in the Spring Autumn Sect. He was the face of the sect.

    ¡°Hmm? Sect Master, who is he?¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s gaze shifted to Chen Fan, a hint of interest glinting in his eyes. ¡°He can actually fight with Wang Fuchen with only Qi Grandmaster cultivation. Interesting.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan stepped forward, standing shoulder to shoulder with Duan Jingtian, and said, ¡°This boy is Chen Fan, a disciple of our Spring Autumn Sect.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, huh...¡±

    Duan Jingtian repeated as a light shed in his eyes, and he said, ¡°I have heard of his name before.¡±

    Zhuo Bufan shot a nce at Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian was the Alliance Leader of Heaven¡¯s Alliance, and Chen Fan had a grudge against the outer sect branch of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Moreover, he had killed Fei Kuang and a few other alliance members during the Outer Sect Grand Competition; these incidents were rtively inconsequential in Duan Jingtian''s eyes.

    However, being part of Heaven''s Alliance, some news inevitably reached the inner sect and Duan Jingtian''s ears.

 Chapter 115 - Zhong Li Breaks Through

    <h4>Chapter 115 - Zhong Li Breaks Through</h4>

    In the back, a hint of concern flickered in Qin Changkong¡¯s eyes.

    Unexpectedly, Duan Jingtian happened to pass by and arrived at Dragon Mountain Peak.

    Everyone in the sect knew about the feud between Chen Fan and the outer sect branch of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance.

    The leader of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, Duan Jingtian, was here, and it seemed he had taken notice of Chen Fan, admitting to hearing his name before.

    Although Chen Fan had gained renown in the outer sect, it couldn¡¯t have attracted Duan Jingtian¡¯s attention.

    The fact that Duan Jingtian was aware of Chen Fan''s name suggested that news of the events in the outer sect had reached him. It meant that not only was he genteel but also cunning and ruthless.

    Members of the alliance had died during thepetition matches, so Qin Changkong pondered Duan Jingtian¡¯s true thoughts.

    <i>I hope nothing happens.</i>

    Qin Changkong prayed in his heart.

    ......

    The valley with He Junyang¡¯s group, Dragon Mountain Blessed Land:

    The trio guarded a cave¡¯s entrance like sentries.

    Inside the cave, Zhong Li sat on the ground, his primeval qi intensifying and casting a milky white luster.

    The primeval qi of heaven and earth transformed into wisps of milky white radiance, seeping into Zhong Li and fortifying his inner breath and his flesh and blood.

    Zhong Li was currently trying to break through to the Yuanfu realm.

    ¡°It¡¯s been three days. I wonder if Boss will seed in advancing?¡± He Junyang remarked, looking into the pitch-ck cave, sensing the intense ripples emanating from it.

    Five days ago, they had entered and full of treasures under Zhong Li¡¯s lead and obtained a spiritual fruit that could push a Qi Grandmaster into the Yuanfu realm.

    The group came across a remote and quiet valley two dayster, and Zhong Li went into secluded cultivation to advance to the next level.

    With three more days having psed, the aura from the cave grew increasingly powerful.

    ¡°To achieve the Yuanfu realm is to establish a primeval vessel inside you. It could condense an enormous amount of primeval force. Boss was already a peak Qi Grandmaster when we entered the blessednd, and some of his primeval qi had already transformed into primeval force. The Condensed Primeval Purple Fruit has significantly increased his chances of sess. I think he should be out soon,¡± Yang Feng said.

    The rather attractive Bing Ye said, ¡°That¡¯s right. The auraing from inside the cave is getting stronger and stronger. I feel like the atmosphere is growing heavier. He should be just one step away from breaking through.¡±

    ¡°Mhm. Wang Fuchen wouldn¡¯t be so arrogant once Boss advances sessfully. I heard he went to the ck Sea Demon Cave three days ago to seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. I wonder if he has seeded by now,¡± He Junyang said, switching the topic.

    Yang Feng narrowed his eyes slightly, a faint smile appearing at the corners of his lips. ¡°It¡¯s best if he seeds. After Boss makes his breakthrough, we''ll find him and seize it, saving us the trouble of entering ck Sea Demon Cave and facing all those demon beasts.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s also that little bastard Chen Fan. He dares kill our Heaven¡¯s Alliance members. His sins are unforgivable. He might have survived that disaster, but he won''t escape death. Boss regrets that he couldn''t kill him personally, but the heavens have given him a chance.¡±

    Bing Ye said, ¡°But whatever happens in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land can be seen from the outside. It''ll be challenging to justify our actions to the Sect Master.¡±

    ¡°What are you scared of?!¡±

    He Junyang, wearing a look of disdain, retorted, ¡°After Boss makes his breakthrough, would the Sect Master make things difficult for us just because that little bastard died? Besides, we''re members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. How will he exin himself to Senior Brother Duan!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true...¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, a powerful aura surged from within the cave, transforming into a fierce gale that swept out like des, making He Junyang and the others stagger backward.

    ¡°This is...¡±

    ¡°He did it! Boss seeded in breaking through!¡±

    The three steadied themselves and looked inside the cave with surprise.

    They sensed a presence akin to a ferocious beast, making their hearts quiver. The pressure was unmistakably that of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    <i>Tap tap, tap tap tap...</i>

    Simultaneously, the sounds of light footsteps echoed. Soon, Zhong Li emerged from the depths of the cave.

    ¡°Boss.¡±

    ¡°Boss!¡±

    Seeing Zhong Li, He Junyang and the others hurriedly went up and asked, ¡°How is it, Boss?¡±

    Although they knew Zhong Li had broken through to the Yuanfu realm, they needed his confirmation.

    Zhong Li nodded. ¡°I seeded!¡±

    He extended his hand and pointed. A streak of primeval force shot out, making the ground before him explode and forming a sizable crater as rocks and dirt flew everywhere.

    ¡°So, this is the strength of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse? So powerful!¡± He Junyang and the others¡¯ pupils shrunk slightly. Just a point of his finger made them feel like death was before them.

    Had that finger been pointed at them, their protective primeval qi would have shattered instantly, and they would have been skewered.

    ¡°It¡¯s mighty, indeed. It¡¯s on apletely different level from the Qigong realm. Not even ten Qi Grandmastersbined can match a Yuanfu realm powerhouse. Tell me, what¡¯s the situation like outside?¡± Zhong Li asked with a smile.

    Yang Feng said, ¡°Boss, Wang Fuchen led his men to the ck Sea Demon Cave three days ago to take the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, but there has been no news yet. It¡¯s unknown if he¡¯s seeded.

    ¡°There''s another matter that Boss might find unbelievable: Chen Fan and Qin Yao are both alive!¡±

    ¡°That little bastard is still alive? How is that possible?¡±

    Zhong Li''s expression shifted from surprise to a calcted calm. He narrowed his eyes and said, ¡°Tell me in detail.¡±

    Yang Feng recounted what he had gathered. After hearing it, Zhong Li fell silent for a while.

    ¡°Hehe, this little bastard is truly tenacious, surviving even after jumping off Scarlet Cliff with no blood. It looks like he obtained some fortuitous encounter below the Scarlet Cliff...¡± Zhong Li said coldly, his eyes flickering with a cold light.

    Such resilience in the face of imminent death suggested Chen Fan had stumbled upon a significant opportunity.

    He Junyangughed coldly and said, ¡°It¡¯s good that he didn¡¯t die, Boss. We¡¯ll just kill him again. There¡¯s no way he can escape, can he? We can also snatch that heavenly opportunity from him, killing two birds with one stone.¡±

    ¡°Mhm. Let¡¯s go. We¡¯ll head over to the ck Sea Demon Cave immediately. It won¡¯t be easy for Wang Fuchen to obtain the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. The ck Flood Dragon species are mighty. He will have to pay a steep price even if he obtains the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. We¡¯ll go there right now and y the oriole behind the mantis.¡±

    An icy cold smile appeared on Zhong Li¡¯s face.

    Now, Wang Fuchen wasn¡¯t the only one with Yuanfu realm cultivation.

    ......

    ck Sea Demon Cave:

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air shook violently as primeval qi and primeval force collided fiercely in mid-air. Explosion sounds rose and fell from the shes.

    Wang Fuchen stood proudly in the void, the sword in his hand shining brightly.

    Powerful sword light continuously descended, creating a storm of sword lights that turned gravel into powder.

    Chen Fan was reluctant to reveal the Wings of Rain Dragon. He knew that the people on the Dragon Mountain Peak could see this. If exposed, spection and greed could arise.

    ¡°Wang Fuchen, as the number one disciple of Floating Cloud Sword Outer Sect and a Yuanfu realm expert, you¡¯re actually hiding like a turtle. It¡¯s really shameful. Come down and fight me if you¡¯re capable. What kind of prowess is that, hiding in the air!?¡±

    Chen Fan shattered the iing sword lights with a palm and taunted Wang Fuchen. It would be ideal to defeat Wang Fuchen without revealing the Wings of Rain Dragon.

 Chapter 116 - Exposed

    <h4>Chapter 116 - Exposed</h4>

    Wang Fuchen maintained a stoic expression, uttering no words as the speed of his sword swings intensified.

    Chen Fan proved to be a formidable adversary.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A sword light struck a dune, leading to an immediate explosion that sent a cascade of sand into the sky.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Simultaneously, Qin Yao appeared on the scene. Chen Fan had instructed her to stay hidden behind the dune, vigntly observing movements from the other directions.

    Many people knew about Wang Fuchening to the ck Sea Demon Cave to seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. There was a lingering uncertainty about opportunists hoping to exploit the conflict between Wang Fuchen and the ck Flood Dragons. Chen Fan remained cautious, wary of unforeseen threats.

    More than ten days had passed since the training started; many individuals had encountered fortuitous circumstances during this time. Perhaps someone among them had advanced to the Yuanfu realm.

    Initially hidden behind the dune, Qin Yao was exposed when a sword light homed in on her, forcing her to reveal herself.

    ¡°Are you alright, Senior Sister?¡± Chen Fan inquired anxiously.

    Qin Yao assured, ¡°I¡¯m fine. You should be careful.¡±

    Yuanfu realm powerhouses were indeed mighty.

    That unintentional attack from earlier had shattered her protectiveyer of primeval qi.

    She would have been injured if her cultivation had not advanced and her physique had remained the same.

    Hovering in mid-air, Wang Fuchen''s gaze narrowed upon discovering Qin Yao.

    Despite his aerial vantage point and thorough perception, he had failed to notice her. She had withdrawn her aura and hidden well, revealed only thanks to the unintentional attack.

    To Wang Fuchen''s surprise, both Qin Yao and Chen Fan had survived the fall.

    However, a cold smile curled at the corners of Wang Fuchen''s lips.

    <i>She appeared at the perfect time!</i>

    Chen Fan was strong and wasn¡¯t afraid of his sword light, but Qin Yao was different.

    He knew how important Qin Yao was to Chen Fan.

    By directing his attacks at Qin Yao, he could potentially exploit Chen Fan''s protective concern for her.

    Swiftly, Wang Fuchen tranted this idea into action.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    A flurry of sword lights formed an inescapable, enshrouding Qin Yao.

    Chen Fan immediately roared, ¡°Senior Sister, watch out! Retreat!¡±

    His aura erupted, obliterating the iing sword lights. Simultaneously, he blurred into motion, darting toward Qin Yao.

    It didn¡¯t take long for Qin Yao to understand Wang Fuchen¡¯s intentions. He wanted to use her to distract and restrain Chen Fan.

    s, shecked Chen Fan¡¯s strength. Seeing the sword lights shooting toward her, she swiftly evaded them with grace.

    However, Wang Fuchen quickly closed in, rapidly flicking his wrist to unleash a deluge of sword lights that nketed the sky, determined to eliminate Qin Yao.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze darkened.

    ¡°So, you believe hiding in the sky renders me powerless against you?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice was iparably cold.

    Chen Fan was ready to protect Qin Yao for the rest of his life.

    Now that Wang Fuchen was attacking Qin Yao, the motive behind his method was clear to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re angry, boy? This is the sorrow of the weak. You can¡¯t even protect your woman!¡± Wang Fuchenughedcently, feeling like his scheme had seeded.

    The killing intent in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed madly. He said eerily, ¡°I didn¡¯t want to expose this, but it doesn¡¯t matter as long as I can kill you!¡±

    <i>Fwoop!</i>

    A wide pair of feathered wings appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    As he pped them, a gale whistled in the area, rolling up the yellow sand into the sky, forming a tornado.

    ¡°This is...¡±

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s smile suddenly froze.

    ¡°Turning primeval qi into wings!¡± Zhuo Bufan and the others¡¯ eyes narrowed.

    Cai Chixia eximed in shock, ¡°This is not as simple as condensing primeval qi to create wings. It must be a profound flying technique. That pair of feathered wings...¡±

    Everyone here, keenly perceptive, swiftly discerned the extraordinary nature of Chen Fan''s feathered wings.

    Although the specific variety eluded them, the intricate runes adorning the wings conveyed their significant origin.

    Even Duan Jingtian¡¯s gaze turned serious and fell into deep thought.

    <i>I heard he was a martial arts trash. After getting struck by lightning, his dantian opened, and his meridians became clear. He then killed some outer sect disciple and hid himself in the Qingyang Mountain Range.</i>

    <i>Many specte he stumbled upon a fortuitous encounter there. He may have acquired some senior''s ancient cultivation technique. Perhaps he also learned how to manifest wings from primeval qi there. </i>

    ......

    <i>Swish!</i>

    In a swift motion, Chen Fan ascended into the sky, propelled by the rhythmic pping of his wings.

    ¡°You thought you would be safe in the air?¡± Chen Fan taunted as he lunged, his punch pulsating with formidable force. Primeval qi enveloped his fist; it seemed capable of rending mountains and splitting the earth.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Wang Fuchen was astonished but reacted swiftly, shing his sword to intercept the oing force.

    To his surprise, Chen Fan''s primeval qi wings allowed him to navigate the skies like a Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent, executing the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist.

    His flurry of punches burst forth like a meteor, causing spatial vibrations.

    Following Chen Fan''s transformation, a thin membrane beneath his skin had linked his tendons and bones, elevating his strength beyond conventional human limits.

    When he activated his cultivation, his flesh and blood would weave together, making him impervious to weapons. His fist collided violently with Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword, producingrge amounts of sparks like fireworks.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    An enormous force rushed into Wang Fuchen, shaking up his qi and blood, and sent him flying thousands of meters away.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t give him any chance to catch his breath. He turned into a blur and streaked through the skies.

    He grabbed the air, and his primeval qi transformed into a long, ck spear. He threw it, sending it flying toward Wang Fuchen¡¯s chest.

    Wang Fuchen, formidable in his own right, responded promptly.

    His cultivation surged, and a swirling qi current deflected the oing primeval qi spear. Yet, in a sudden turn, Chen Fan materialized directly above him.

    Descending like a dragon, Chen Fan''s fist promised one thing alone: destruction.

    The pressure it carriedpressed the air and squeezed the surrounding space, imposing an invisible force upon Wang Fuchen.

    ¡°Hatred Asunder Sword Technique, Hatred for Man!¡±

    Wang Fuchen countered with a vertical sword stroke, unleashing a brilliant and fierce sword qi. The radiant energy shattered the pressure; as if the man and sword had merged, he dismantled the force behind Chen Fan''s descending fistyer byyer.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    Chen Fan stepped on the void.

    Primeval qi spewed out from his skull as he revolved his cultivation to the extreme. His primeval qi transformed into a huge club. Stepping forward, both hands wielding the club, he swung down violently.

    He didn¡¯t use any borate moves. It was a simple attack; it seemed like he wanted to split a mountain with brute force.

    His strengthy in the sheer might of his physique, now magnified to its zenith.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The huge primeval qi club chopped down at his head, bringing a whirlwind with it, enveloping Wang Fuchen.

    Wang Fuchen felt the weight of an ancient godly mountain bearing down on him, rendering him powerless.

    He swung his sword repeatedly to neutralize the pressure from the huge club.

    However, every swing of the club from Chen Fan was very ferocious. Ultimately, it was as if he had simply turned into a windmill. The huge club in his hand spun in circles, smashing down crazily.

    ¡°Damn it! I¡¯ll fight you with all I have!¡±

    A vengeful look shed in Wang Fuchen¡¯s eyes.

    This was a crucial life-and-death situation. He couldn¡¯t afford to hesitate.

    In an instant, a strong sword intent rose from Wang Fuchen, transforming into an extremely terrifying sword might. The surrounding qi coiled into fine sword qi, slicing through the void with terrifying precision.

 Chapter 117 - Wang Fuchenâ€™s Death

    <h4>Chapter 117 - Wang Fuchen¡¯s Death</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi wings were utterly out of Wang Fuchen¡¯s expectations; now, he had no advantage.

    Helpless against Chen Fan''s relentless and powerful attacks, he faced the imminent threat of being beaten to death.

    Wang Fuchen had no choice but to go all out.

    Powerful sword intent erupted from Wang Fuchen, making the air whistle mournfully.

    <i>Wooo, woooo...</i>

    The sword intent harnessed the surrounding air, transforming it into a formidable sword qi that sliced through the void.

    <i>Bang bang bang, bang bang bang...</i>

    The ferocious sword qi, iparably sharp and propelled by innumerable rotations, dragged the surrounding air with it as it collided violently with Chen Fan¡¯s punch.

    The ensuing qi force reached a staggering level, disturbing the air and lifting countless grains of sand.

    <i>nk, nk, nk, nk, nk.</i>

    The rotation elerated, producing a cacophony of nking sounds as the airborne gravel produced sparks upon collision.

    Amid the noise, more sand got whisked into the air, reminiscent of a whale drawing in water, creating an eerie desert spectacle akin to an apocalypse.

    While Wang Fuchen was no longer actively attacking Qin Yao, the qi ripples generated from the fight forced her to fall back miles away from the center of the sh.

    Qi Grandmasters were considered strong, but that was among Qigong realm martial artists. Any Qi Grandmaster, whenpared to Chen Fan and Wang Fuchen, was iprehensibly weak. Any random ripple from their fight could severely injure them.

    Qin Yao sensed Wang Fuchen¡¯s intense sword intent and realized that he was about to reveal his trump cards.

    If she were caught in the crossfire, Chen Fan would be affected, so she decided against doing anything to distract him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A series of thunderous booms reverberated.

    Chen Fan saw Qin Yao retreating to a secure location, which relieved him. With a focused gaze, he zeroed in on Wang Fuchen, looking serious.

    Wang Fuchen had been forced to risk his life.

    The full-force assault of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse demanded his utmost attention; underestimating it was not an option.

    Thinking of this, Chen Fan rotated his cultivation fiercely. Primeval qi surged through him like a powerful river, giving him immense strength.

    He simultaneously activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, making his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones emit sounds reminiscent of an elephant''s cry. Strength coursed through his limbs and skeleton.

    Chen Fan once again felt the need to release all his strength like he did when he had be a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°You wretched little bastard, take pride in the fact that you''ve driven me to this, even if this leads to your death,¡± said Wang Fuchen, his sword intent growing more pronounced with each passing moment. The storm created by his sword qi also became iparably fierce.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t diest time; this time, I will personally see to it that you stay dead.¡±

    After umting all his sword intent, Wang Fuchen made it erupt violently.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Wang Fuchen flew off like a bullet. He had be one with his sword, like an otherworldly immortal.

    An unparalleled sword light sliced through the void, seemingly liberated from time and space constraints, thrusting with unbridled ferocity.

    <i>Hatred Asunder Sword Technique¡¯s second move¡ªHatred for Earth!</i>

    Chen Fan felt like something had locked onto his soul, without sanctuary in heaven or earth. This sword would find and strike him down even if he sought refuge in the depths of time and space.

    A surge of intense hatred emanated from the technique, assaulting his mind. Countless specters, burdened with animosity, materialized before him, trying to drag him down to the depths of Avici Hell. [1]

    However, Chen Fan''s mental fortitude proved unyielding. The attempt to sway him was futile, and he quickly regained hisposure.

    Yet, amid this, his pupils reflected an eerie streak of icy light descending upon him.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted instantly. His voice was like thunder, shaking heaven and earth.

    Three heads and six arms materialized behind him and struck out at once.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom!</i>

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Chen Fanbined his cultivation and martial skills, unleashing the strongest punch of his life using the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. Even the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo deep in his dantian revolved intensely, erupting with strength.

    Every palm had the power to shatter mountains.

    Every punch seemed like ancient wild elephants trampling heaven and earth.

    <i>Thump thump thump!</i>

    The wind whistled, shaking the very fabric of space. The celestial bodies¡ªthe sun, moon, and stars¡ªteetered on the brink of falling from the skies like raindrops. Even the divine beings were about to weep and wail in anguish.

    Wang Fuchen executed his strongest sword technique, a force that rent everything in its path as it hurtled toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan''s frenzied counterattackspressed the air infinitely, making it denser than mercury and steel, thrusting outward like impervious steel doors.

    Wang Fuchen felt like his sword was attacking thick steel tes. The breaking of oneyer was met with the presence of the next, an endless repetition.

    His sword trembled and hummed, and his interdigital webbing tore further. Fresh blood spurted out, and he felt like the tendons and bones in his arm were about to be torn apart and broken.

    s, no matter how hard he tried to push, his sword could not prate an inch further.

    His distance from Chen Fan, though small, felt like an insurmountable gap, akin to the chasm between heaven and earth.

    His sword intent waned rapidly, while Chen Fan¡¯s momentum was like a torrential downpour, falling unceasingly.

    ¡°Impossible, break for me...!¡± Wang Fuchen roared furiously.

    A primeval vessel rushed out from the top of his head, suppressing heaven and earth. An immortal aura permeated the space, gleaming with the resplendence of treasures.

    Wang Fuchen pushed his powers to their zenith, his primeval force burning fervently, transmuting into an unparalleled power.

    <i>Buzz.</i>

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword suddenly shone brilliantly, and a powerful sword qi rushed out.

    It broke through the seemingly endless thick steel tes and shattered one of Chen Fan¡¯s qi arms.

    ¡°Hatred for Heaven!¡±

    Wang Fuchen''s primeval force zed, his vitality boiling, as the sword qi surged toward the heavens.

    Wang Fuchen had truly gone all out. His cultivation revolved to the limit, forcibly executing Hatred Asunder Sword Technique¡¯s final move¡ªHatred for Heaven.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s qi heads and arms exploded almost instantly, turning into rolling primeval qi and scattering in the air.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword tore through the air, its tip striking Chen Fan. However, it sounded like it had hit steel, showcasing just how strong and terrifying Chen Fan¡¯s physique was.

    Still, it was Wang Fuchen¡¯s strongest attack. Chen Fan¡¯s flesh was cut open as the sword prated him.

    However, Chen Fan''s flesh proved extraordinarily resilient.

    His flesh and blood were incredibly dense, and the membrane under his skin connecting his tendons and bones was iparably tough, stopping Wang Fuchen¡¯s sword from moving any further.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Unfazed by the pain, Chen Fan''s iron fists unleashed a relentless barrage.

    Wang Fuchen''s protective primeval force crumbled under the ferocious assault, a formidable force rushing into him, wreaking havoc by breaking bones and shattering organs.

    <i>Boomtch!</i>

    The massive primeval qi club moved ferociously, delivering the decisive blow.

    The club had struck Wang Fuchen¡¯s waist. His tendons tore, his bones snapped, and his organs burst. Staring fixedly at Chen Fan, Wang Fuchen drew his final breath before plummeting from the skies silently.

    ¡°Nice!¡±

    Chen Fan paused solemnly, pulled out the sword lodged in his shoulder de, and descended to the ground. After sensing Wang Fuchen was really dead, he finally let out a sigh of relief.

    1. Av¨©ci or Avici is one of the hells in Buddhism andter Hinduism. The term, in Buddhism, is in reference to what is perceived as the lowest level of the Naraka or "hell" realm, with the most suffering, into which the dead who havemitted grave misdeeds may be reborn. ?

 Chapter 118 - Ice Jade Snow Lotus

    <h4>Chapter 118 - Ice Jade Snow Lotus</h4>

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Wang Fuchen¡¯s corpse fell from a high altitude,nding heavily on the sand with a dull thud.

    ¡°He¡¯s dead...¡±

    Zhuo Bufan and the others¡¯ hearts shook when they witnessed the scene through the primeval mirror.

    Wang Fuchen¡ªa first-level Yuanfu realm expert¡ªhad died

    <i>Hum!</i>

    A resonant hum filled the air as the sword intent from Leng Feng and the other Floating Cloud Sword Sect elders surged uncontrobly toward the heavens.

    The Dragon Mountain Peak echoed with the chilling whistles of sword qi, apanied by mournful sounds.

    No one stopped them.

    Wang Fuchen, the foremost disciple of Floating Cloud Sword¡¯s outer sect and the genius renowned as the second Jian Chen, had met an untimely end.

    The loss of such a promising disciple stirred anger and frustration among those present¡ªan understandable response.

    ¡°Damn it, damn it!¡±

    ¡°Damn it, he really deserves to die!¡±

    The handful of outer sect elders from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect behind Leng Feng couldn¡¯t help but curse out loud, staring at Chen Fan. Icy killing intent shed in their eyes, wishing they could rush into the blessednd immediately and avenge his death.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Zhuo Bufan harrumphed abruptly, his cold aura permeating the air.

    While the grief of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect elders over Wang Fuchen''s death was understandable, expressing that with killing intent was the same as a direct threat.

    In Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, such disys were ill-advised.

    After all, these same elders had been strangely silent when Wang Fuchen had forced Chen Fan and Qin Yao to leap off the Scarlet Cliff earlier.

    ¡°Shut up!¡± Leng Feng sensed the cold intenting from Zhuo Bufan and quickly turned to shout furiously at the elders behind him.

    Zhuo Bufan said coldly, ¡°Elder Leng Feng, disciples training in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land aren¡¯t prohibited from killing others. You can¡¯t me others if one of your disciples loses their life.

    ¡°I can understand your anger, but as an elder, openly deeming one of our Spring Autumn Sect disciples worthy of death is uneptable. Should anything untoward happen to Chen Fan after this, I will consider it the Floating Cloud Sword Sect''s responsibility.¡±

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo¡ª¡±

    Leng Feng furrowed his brow but was immediately interrupted by Zhuo Bufan. ¡°No need to say anything more. I remember your stance when Wang Fuchen forced Chen Fan to leap off the cliff.¡±

    Leng Feng''s expression darkened at the stark reminder.

    The loss of both Wang Tengfei and now Wang Fuchen, once promising geniuses of the outer sect, weighed heavily on him, leaving a somber realization of their untimely demise.

    Although they really wanted to tear Chen Fan to pieces, they could only gnash their teeth and swallow their anger.

    ......

    Now on the ground, Chen Fan released a heavy sigh of relief. The intense tension that had gripped him suddenly dissipated, and he trembled, involuntarily spewing out a mouthful of fresh blood.

    Despite defeating Wang Fuchen with formidable momentum, Chen Fan had incurred severe injuries.

    For his final all-out attack, Wang Fuchen had brought forth his primeval vessel and burned his primeval force to unleash Hatred for Heaven. His sword intent, full of hatred, had darted toward Chen Fan, trying to wreak havoc on his vitality.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan had condensed the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo and refined the hatred. Otherwise, even if he hadn¡¯t died, he would have been left half-dead.

    Not only that, if he hadn¡¯t refined the residual sword intent of hatred inside him, it would have been difficult for him to progress in his cultivation.

    ¡°Wang Fuchen... He was much stronger than the Devil-Faced Spider King. Twice as strong, at least.¡±

    Chen Fan swept his gaze across Wang Fuchen¡¯s corpse, feeling iparably exhrated in his heart.

    Although he was injured, he managed to exact revenge. The heavy burden weighing on his heart was lifted, making him feel much more rxed now.

    Killing Wang Fuchen prevented thetter from bing a haunting obsession, a looming obstacle that could impede Chen Fan''s martial arts progression.

    Maintaining a clear mind was the most important thing for a cultivator.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Qin Yao approached swiftly after the battle concluded. Concern etched her features as she inquired, ¡°How are you feeling, Xiaofan?¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m fine. No need to worry about me, Senior Sister.¡±

    ¡°How can you say you¡¯re fine? Just take a look at yourself. There are wounds everywhere.¡± Qin Yao took out some Recovery Pills from her storage ring and offered them to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Mere minor injuries, Senior Sister.¡± Chen Fan said nonchntly, ¡°I¡¯ve avenged you, Senior Sister and I''ve also taken my revenge.¡±

    He extended his fingers and removed Wang Fuchen''s storage ring. ncing inside, he discovered a wealth of valuable items befitting the status of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect''s top outer sect disciple¡ªnow all rightfully his.

    ¡°Come here,¡± he beckoned, and a streak of primeval qi shot out, encircling the Ice Jade Snow Lotus like a delicate silk thread.

    Examining the exquisite flower in his hand, Chen Fan marveled at its purity. "So, this is the Ice Jade Snow Lotus? What incredible energy."

    ¡°This is indeed the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. It has eight lotus leaves in total, which means it has grown for eight hundred years. Even Core Formation realm experts would want to seize it if we bring it out,¡± Qin Yao exined.

    ¡°Even Core Formation experts covet it?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s heart jumped.

    Their mission in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land was centered around obtaining the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, and it also served as the final reward. They might invite trouble upon themselves if news of it spread.

    Anticipating his concerns, Qin Yao added, ¡°While the Ice Jade Snow Lotus is a precious treasure, it poses a threat to us at our current cultivation levels. We cannot harness its power to advance our cultivation. Consuming it would lead to an energy overload, potentially resulting in us exploding.

    ¡°The final rewards in the previous training sessions have been simr precious treasures. Regardless of their sect, those who obtained such treasures would sell them to their sect in exchange for practical resources like primeval stones, elixirs, and other useful items.

    ¡°So, Xiaofan, after we leave this ce, you¡¯d best hand over the Ice Jade Snow Lotus to the sect in exchange for equivalent value in primeval stones, elixirs, and other items suitable for your current level. This way, you can avoid bringing unnecessary trouble upon yourself."

    Even Core Formation experts valued the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, so it could be exchanged for many Yuanfu or Core Formation realm demon cores.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s the only thing I can do.¡±

    He understood the risks associated with having something beyond his current capabilities.

    Having the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in his possession was like holding onto a hot potato. He didn¡¯t have sufficient strength to handle what came with it.

    Could he possibly protect something even Core Formation realm experts covet and would want to snatch from him?

    Even if he stayed put in the sect, who could guarantee the sect experts with high positions wouldn¡¯t make their moves in secret?

    One might be driven to take desperate risks in the grip of greed, only to end up ming the world for its cruelty.

    ¡°Xiaofan, what should we do about those two?¡± Qin Yao asked, looking at the two severely injured Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples.

    Chen Fan replied indifferently, ¡°Of course, we can¡¯t let them go.¡±

    Then, Chen Fan grabbed at the air with his hand and directly threw them, along with Wang Fuchen¡¯s corpse, into the ck Sea Demon Cave.

    Plenty of demon beasts resided there; ultimately, not even their skeletons would remain in this world.

    Chen Fan was never one to show mercy to his enemies.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Senior Sister!¡±

    Chen Fan called Qin Yao and sped off, holding the Ice Jade Snow Lotus and rushing to leave the desert.

    Because of the rules, he couldn''t store the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in a ring or pouch, so he had to carry it openly, which felt a bit like showing off.

 Chapter 119 - Each Having Their Own Agenda

    <h4>Chapter 119 - Each Having Their Own Agenda</h4>

    ¡°Haha, hahaha.¡±

    Primeval qi surged and boiled in a cold pond in the blessednd.

    With resonantughter, a cultivator ascended into the sky, enveloped in frigid qi.

    ¡°I did it¡ªYuanfu realm! The power of this realm is so formidable, intoxicating in its might!¡±

    Xuan Feixue stood in the air; with a casual wave of his hand, a burst of cold primeval force shot forth, crystallizing the air into snowkes wherever it went.

    The primeval force descended onto arge stone. Crackling noises echoed as the stone promptly froze and shattered into countless pieces with a resounding boom.

    ¡°Congrattions, Senior Brother. You are now a Yuanfu realm expert. No one in heaven or earth can contend against you now!¡±

    Several silhouettes rushed from all directions, half-kneeling in respectful congrattions.

    ¡°Get up, all of you.¡±

    Xuan Feixuended on the ground and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the situation outside like?¡±

    A tall youth answered, ¡°Reporting to Senior Brother, Wang Fuchen led his men to the ck Sea Demon Cave to seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. He should have gotten it by now. There is also news of Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Zhong Li sessfully stepping into the Yuanfu realm. He''s en route to the ck Sea Demon Cave, likely nning to capitalize on Wang Fuchen''s vulnerability.¡±

    ¡°Another piece of information is that the two Spring Autumn Sect disciples, who were forced to jump off the Scarlet Cliff, are reportedly alive. They should havee across some fortuitous encounter under the Scarlet Cliff,¡± added a youth in gray attire.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s fascinating. I didn¡¯t expect so many things to have happened in the few days I went into secluded cultivation.¡±

    Xuan Feixueughed lightly at the news and said, ¡°Since Zhong Li wants to y the oriole behind the mantis, we¡¯ll y the fisherman in the fight between the snipe and the m. Wang Fuchen won¡¯t be easy to deal with, even if he is heavily injured. [1]

    ¡°As for those cliff jumpers, they must havee across a fortuitous encounter since they survived that jump. No one would ever believe them if they said otherwise. That¡¯s fine, too. After we ughter Wang Fuchen and Zhong Li and get our hands on the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, we¡¯ll capture those two and interrogate them. Then, everything in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land will be mine.¡±

    Pausing briefly, Xuan Feixue inquired, "Any updates on Burning Incense Valley?"

    The tall youth answered, ¡°No, I heard they obtained some treasures and are in secluded cultivation somewhere. They must also be attempting to advance to the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    Xuan Feixue narrowed his eyes slightly, rubbed his chin, and said, ¡°Not the news I was hoping for, but that¡¯s fine. If they share my aspirations, well, I''ll just swallow them as well.¡±

    ......

    A towering mountain on the blessednd:

    A waterfall cascaded down a steep rock wall, and water sshed everywhere. Sunlight refracted through the falling water, forming a brilliant rainbow arc.

    Beneath the waterfall, a youth with a robust physique stood bathed in golden light as though cast in gold.

    The descending waterfall, resembling the Milky Way from the heavens, roared like thunder as it fell from thousands of feet, its force capable of demolishing a mountain.

    The torrent shed with the golden light emanating from the youth. As it incessantly poured, the golden radiance slowly receded into the youth.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Suddenly, a golden primeval vessel rushed out from this youth¡¯s head, radiating a majestic golden glow akin to a celestial pce.

    Its appearance triggered an invisible force, seemingly creating a spatial barrier that divided the falling water into two streams.

    <i>Whoosh whoosh.</i>

    Several figures rushed to the scene almost simultaneously, their eyes alight at the sight of the golden primeval vessel.

    ¡°Congrattions, Senior Brother, on reaching the Yuanfu realm!¡± they greeted.

    With light, rippling steps, Chu Qing quickly arrived at the shore. He withdrew the golden primeval vessel back into him and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the situation now? Has the Ice Jade Snow Lotus fallen into Wang Fuchen¡¯s hands already?¡±

    A bald youth said, ¡°Senior Brother, there is no news from the ck Sea Demon Cave for now, but I specte that Wang Fuchen is likely fighting for the Ice Jade Snow Lotus as we speak. Also, Zhong Li is leading his group toward the ck Sea Demon Cave, having sessfully broken through. He''s probably nning to ambush Wang Fuchen."

    Chu Qing nodded and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go. We¡¯ll go to the ck Sea Demon Cave now as well. With my new golden physique, no weapon can hurt me. The Ice Jade Snow Lotus belongs to us, the Burning Incense Valley. I will fight Wang Fuchen and see if it''s his sword that''s sharper or my golden physique that''s tougher.¡±

    ......

    ¡°Boss, now that you¡¯ve sessfully advanced to the Yuanfu realm, you¡¯ll immediately be an elite disciple after entering the inner sect next year, but we¡¯re not that lucky. We will only be the lowest-ranked inner court disciples,¡± Yang Feng said while Zhong Li¡¯s group was on their way to the ck Sea Demon.

    After the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training, the top hundred disciples from the Outer Sect Grand Competition were ted to enter the inner sect.

    However, within the Spring Autumn Sect, distinct ranks existed among the inner sect disciples: inner court disciples, elite disciples, core disciples, and those elevated to holy disciples by the sect.

    ¡°Hehe, what are you scared of? After we enter the inner sect, we¡¯ll immediately be true members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Who would dare mess with us, even if we¡¯re the lowest-ranked inner court disciples?¡± He Junyang said arrogantly.

    Yang Feng smiled and said, ¡°I just didn¡¯t want to be separated from Boss.¡±

    Zhong Li said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. When I get my hands on the Ice Jade Snow Lotus and contribute greatly to our sect, would the sect not reward us greatly? Even if they don¡¯t, I will exchange the lotus for breakthrough pills for you guys. You''ll soon advance to the Yuanfu realm and be promoted to elite disciples.¡±

    ¡°We''ll thank you in advance, Boss.¡± Yang Fengughed.

    He Junyang said, ¡°The ck Sea Desert is just ahead of us. We¡¯re arriving soon.¡±

    ¡°Mhm? Look, people are running out from the ck Sea Desert.¡± Bing Ye suddenly pointed toward the desert, where two small ck dots gradually erged as they sprinted.

    Yang Feng said, ¡°Could it be Wang Fuchen¡¯s group?¡±

    Zhong Li immediately looked over. He raised his eyebrows and smiled coldly, ¡°It¡¯s not Wang Fuchen. It¡¯s Chen Fan and Qin Yao.¡±

    Due to his higher cultivation, Zhong Li could discern their identities even from a considerable distance. While Yang Feng and the others saw only two ck dots, Zhong Li identified the figures of Chen Fan and Qin Yao.

    ¡°Chen Fan and Qin Yao?¡±

    Yang Feng and the others were all taken aback.

    ¡°Then what should we do, Boss? Should we let them off for now? Look for them after we get our hands on the Ice Jade Snow Lotus?¡±

    Zhong Li thought momentarily, rolled his eyes, and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go over and look first. They should being back from the ck Sea Demon Cave¡¯s side. We¡¯ll capture those two first and ask about the situation. Perhaps they know how Wang Fuchen¡¯s group is doing now.¡±

    As his voice fell, he turned into a streak of light and sped off.

    1. Another ssic story of a m and a snipe (or sandpiper) fighting and the fisherman getting all the benefits from it in the end. ?

 Chapter 120 - Sending Yourself to Anotherâ€™s Doorsteps

    <h4>Chapter 120 - Sending Yourself to Another¡¯s Doorsteps</h4>

    ¡°Haha, what a surprise, little bastard! Your resilience is truly remarkable¡ªstill brimming with life even after burning your blood and jumping from a cliff.¡±

    As Chen Fan and Qin Yao were on the verge of leaving the desert, a voice echoed from a distance, making them pause and gaze ahead simultaneously.

    ¡°Zhong Li!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze suddenly turned cold when he saw the rapidly approaching figure.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, it¡¯s me.¡± Zhong Li descended from the sky.

    Looking at Chen Fan mockingly, he said, ¡°It''s genuinely surprising, little bastard. You really survived. Yang Feng and the others told me this, but after seeing you... Truly astonishing.¡±

    Zhong Li''s sharp gaze scrutinized Chen Fan from head to toe. ¡°A miracle, indeed. Surviving is one thing, but you don''t even appear injured. It''s shocking. It seems both of you stumbled upon some opportunity beneath the Scarlet Cliff¡ª¡±

    Suddenly, Zhong Li stopped speaking, his eyes fixed on Chen Fan¡¯s hand.

    He eximed in surprise, ¡°Ice Jade Snow Lotus! You¡¯ve actually obtained the Ice Jade Snow Lotus! Did Wang Fuchen suffer grave injuries trying to obtain it? Is that how you two managed to snatch it away from him!¡±

    Yang Feng and the others also arrived at the scene, encircling the pair. Joy shone in their eyes at the sight of the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Their expressions were unfriendly, hinting at a readiness to snatch it.

    ¡°What are you guys trying to do?¡± Qin Yao shouted.

    Chen Fan had just emerged from a fierce confrontation with Wang Fuchen, and his injuries were far from minor.

    Zhong Li had effortlessly traversed through the air¡ªa skill characteristic of Yuanfu realm powerhouses. Given Chen Fan''s injuries, any hostile action from Zhong Li could spell disaster for them.

    ¡°What are we doing? Of course, it¡¯s¡ª¡± He Junyang smiled coldly.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±

    Zhong Li waved his hand, interrupting He Junyang. He looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Speak, what treasures do you have? You went from being a martial arts trash to a Qi Grandmaster in just a few months. Rumors suggest you found some opportunity in the Qingyang Mountain Range. Confess to the nature of this opportunity, be my servant, and work for us. I can spare your life.¡±

    ¡°Boss, it¡¯s fine if you want him as your servant, but you should cripple his cultivation. This little bastard is rebellious. You mustn¡¯t let him keep his cultivation,¡± He Junyang said grimly.

    ¡°I will decide that for myself.¡±

    Hands sped behind his back and gaze trained on Chen Fan, Zhong Li said, ¡°You have no other choice now. Speak. If you don¡¯t, I will capture you and use all kinds of interrogative methods to force it out of you. It¡¯ll be toote for regrets then. Let''s notplicate things.

    ¡°You must have seen earlier that I can traverse the air¡ªa skill exclusive to those in the Yuanfu realm. Don¡¯t harbor any hopes of getting lucky. Moreover, you should think about your senior sister even if you don¡¯t think about yourself. She is quite beautiful.¡±

    When Zhong Li brought up Qin Yao, an icy light shed in Chen Fan''s eyes. He whispered, ¡°Aren¡¯t you scared of the Sect Master? After the Outer Sect Grand Competition, he told us that we must work as a team in the blessednd and forbade us from killing one another. You would be disrespecting the Sect Master by defying his words. Aren¡¯t you afraid of the consequences? Those outside can see all this happening.¡±

    ¡°Haha, you foolish brat. You¡¯re dreaming even now.¡±

    Zhong Li burst out inughter at hearing this. Then, heposed himself, a cold glint shining in his eyes as he said chillingly, ¡°So what if they can see this? The Ice Jade Snow Lotus will be mine after I kill you. I will be making a great contribution to the sect by winning this and will soon be a true member of the alliance.

    ¡°Will the Sect Master punish us for a dead man and offend Senior Brother Duan Jingtian? No, he will turn a blind eye to it and pretend nothing happened. Wake up, kid. Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s status in the Spring Autumn Sect is beyond your imagination.¡±

    ......

    Dragon Mountain Peak:

    Zhuo Bufan watched as Zhong Li made his speech, which everyone on the peak heard, and his expression immediately turned cold.

    Zhong Li''s audacity in disregarding him didn''t escape notice, but Zhuo Bufan, without saying a word, merely humphed coldly in his heart.

    Zhong Li had gotten one thing correct¡ªDuan Jingtian''s status in their sect was beyond ordinaryprehension.

    Duan Jingtian, also on the peak, heard the speech mutely; his silence implied agreement.

    If Chen Fan were killed, Zhuo Bufan would indeed have to turn a blind eye, pretending nothing had happened.

    ......

    ¡°Chen Fan, quickly kneel and acknowledge Boss as your master. Spill all your secrets!¡±

    He Junyang suddenly shouted, ¡°It''s your only way out. You''ve offended Heaven¡¯s Alliance; you''re a dead man no matter where you run. Be our loyal dog. Do whatever wemand, even if it means eating shit. Understand?!¡±

    Chen Fan''s icy gaze fixed on He Junyang as he nodded. ¡°Very well. You want to cripple my cultivation and force me to eat shit, right? Fine. I will give you a taste of your own medicine.¡±

    ¡°What did you say?!¡±

    Despite being surrounded by enemies, Chen Fan acted arrogantly and even threatened He Junyang. This infuriated He Junyang, and he decided to take action.

    A long de materialized in his palm, a formidable qi weapon stained with blood and exuding a murderous aura. It manifested from his powerful cultivation technique and martial art, capable of ying immortals.

    ¡°Ghost Massacre de Technique.¡±

    He Junyangughed maliciously. ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯ll learn the consequences of offending our Heaven¡¯s Alliance today. I''ve been itching to get rid of you, and now that I am a Qi Grandmaster, you''ll serve as a sacrifice for my de.¡±

    ¡°Hold on.¡±

    Zhong Li stopped He Junyang and said, ¡°Chen Fan, you better know what¡¯s good for you. I¡¯ll give you onest chance. Be a dog under me, and use the heavenly opportunities you¡¯ve gained so far to pay for your sins. You still have a chance at life. If you let this go, not even I can save you. You''re ignorant of the rules within Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Submit, or we will strip you of the will to live, denying you the satisfaction of death.¡±

    Zhong Li harbored a strong desire to unravel Chen Fan''s secrets, the key to his rapid ascent. Securing such a heavenly opportunity would elevate his cultivation, status within the Spring Autumn Sect, and importance to Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Giving me a chance?¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled coldly and said, ¡°Do you understand what you''re doing? It''s called delivering yourselves to my doorstep! I had nned on seeking you outter. Do you think I¡¯m unaware that your group forced my senior sister into that situation? Trying to kill others with a borrowed knife?!

    ¡°I vowed never to let anyone who tries to harm my senior sister escape, and that includes all of you. You think you can scare me with Heaven¡¯s Alliance, huh? Assuming you have some kind of authority?¡± [1]

    ¡°Good, very good. Your mouth is still as stubborn as ever. I like that.¡±

    Zhong Liughed coldly, but his voice was filled with murderous intent. ¡°Take him down, He Junyang. I will personally use the Soul Searching Technique on him. I''ll make him endure the most agonizing experience and turn him into a half-wit.¡±

    1. Thest part here is a Chinese idiom that literally says to wave a chicken feather as a token of authority. ?

 Chapter 121 - All Bark and No Bite

    <h4>Chapter 121 - All Bark and No Bite</h4>

    ¡°Yes, Boss.¡±

    Following Zhong Li¡¯s order, He Junyang stepped forth with big strides. He looked menacingly at Chen Fan, his expression hideous, and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know why you would say that¡ªwhether you''re insane or relying on something else. Perhaps you still cling to a sliver of hope in the Sect Master''s words, thinking we won¡¯t actually dare to kill you.

    ¡°Since that is the case, I won¡¯t waste my breath on you. We gave you the chance to be a living dog, but you refused. Now, I¡¯ll turn you into a dead dog. Ghost Massacre de Technique!¡±

    The long qi weapon in his palm took on a ghostly aura as countless spirits twisted around it, all unable to enter the cycle of reincarnation, their souls wailing under the de qi.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    He Junyang swung his arm, his Ghost Massacre de shing down diagonally.

    Immediately, the ghostly aura rushed over, covering the heaven and earth. The tragic scene of Asura Hell appeared before Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    <i>Puuch!</i>

    The de qi broke through the air, enveloping Chen Fan tightly.

    <i>Boomtch!</i>

    But just as He Junyang executed his attack, Chen Fan, unaffected by the ghostly aura, unleashed a powerful punch.

    A formidable force erupted from his fist, tearing through the air, shattering ages, and rending mountains.

    He Junyang¡¯s Ghost Massacre de shattered into countless pieces with a boom.

    Before He Junyang could react, Chen Fan¡¯s fist loosened into a palm and pped at him.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    That steel-like palm had yet to fall onto He Junyang when the apanying gale destroyed He Junyang¡¯s protective primeval qi, producing cracking noises.

    A powerful but invisible force descended upon He Junyang. He immediately felt like he couldn¡¯t move and sank into the ground.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    A series of bone-breaking noises rang out as if Junyang had gotten stuck under a mountain. His organs ruptured from the shock, and his qi and blood churned. He saw stars and spewedrge mouthfuls of fresh blood.

    A long qi arm grabbed He Junyang¡¯s neck, seemingly plucking the moon and the stars, bringing him before Chen Fan.

    ¡°You probably thought you were invincible now that you are a Qi Grandmaster. But in my eyes, you all are no different from ants. I can crush you with a single breath,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    The turn of events horrified Zhong Li and the others.

    A Qi Grandmaster, He Junyang, was captured just like that, unable to resist a single move.

    After all the primeval qi fluctuations had dissipated, Zhong Li and the others had seen Chen Fan grabbing He Junyang and lifting him.

    Six primeval qi arms waved behind Chen Fan. Capturing He Junyang couldn¡¯t be any easier. He didn¡¯t have to spend any effort in doing so.

    ¡°You!¡±

    Being in such a humiliating position infuriated He Junyang. He grew so angry that he fainted.

    However, as soon as he fainted, Chen Fan injected a wisp of primeval qi into him and forced him to regain consciousness.

    ¡°He Junyang, now that you are in my hands, I won¡¯t let you die. How is it? You said you would make me wish for death. Now, I¡¯ll have you experience the same. And what was that about eating shit? I¡¯ll find a thousand jin of demon beast shit and shove that into your mouth.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡±

    He Junyang felt like he was going crazy. He was about to say something threatening, but Chen Fan interrupted him and said, ¡°You must have thought that Heaven¡¯s Alliance or that idiot Zhong Li could intimidate me. You''re too naive. Wake up. They can''t even protect themselves. How do you expect them to save you?¡±

    ¡°Let go of He Junyang.¡±

    Zhong Li¡¯s expression became hideous, with a hint of surprise in his eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect this. I truly did not expect you to be so formidable. You survived that cmity and even became a Qi Grandmaster. No wonder you took care of He Junyang in one strike.

    ¡°However, don''t think your newfound strength allows you to act arrogantly before Heaven¡¯s Alliance or me. Understand your situation. Release He Junyang immediately, kneel, cripple your cultivation, and beg for forgiveness. That''s the only way you''ll keep your life. Otherwise, you stand no chance against me!¡±

    Primeval force gathered around Zhong Li as he spoke.

    A formidable aura erupted from Zhong Li, enveloping the entire desert in silence.

    ¡°Get back. Boss is about to make his move. Chen Fan can¡¯t block it. Boss practices the most forceful Shifting Heavenly River Cultivation Technique. Once he executes it, his cultivation ripples for miles, piercing through even mountain peaks.¡±

    ¡°This guy''s luck is unbelievable, finding a heavenly opportunity in the Qing Yang Mountain Range and swiftly ascending. After jumping off Scarlet Cliff, not only did he survive, but his cultivation also advanced, breaking through to Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    When Zhong Li¡¯s heavy aura erupted, Yang Feng and Bing Ye retreated in haste to prevent getting caught in it.

    ¡°You withdraw too, Senior Sister,¡± Chen Fan told Qin Yao.

    The might of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, even though Zhong Li had just broken through, was incredible. It surpassed what Qi Grandmasters could endure; the mere ripples of its force could inflict injuries on them.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you...¡± Qin Yao looked worried.

    How long had it been?

    He had just fought Wang Fuchen, and now he was about to fight Zhong Li¡ªboth formidable Yuanfu realm powerhouses.

    ¡°Don''t worry, Senior Sister. I took down Wang Fuchen effortlessly, so Zhong Li is no match. I''d be distracted if you stayed here.¡±

    Chen Fan turned toward Qin Yao and revealed a rxed smile.

    Qin Yao promptly retreated to a safer distance.

    ¡°Shameless boasting!¡± Zhong Li scoffed upon hearing Chen Fan''s im of defeating Wang Fuchen.

    To him, it was an unbelievable assertion. Only after reaching the Yuanfu realm did Zhong Li grasp the immense strength it wielded, far beyond the reach of a Qi Grandmaster.

    Although Chen Fan had the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, Zhong Li remained skeptical of Wang Fuchen''s defeat, believing it was an opportune ambush rather than a fair fight.

    Chen Fan killed Wang Fuchen?

    That was the biggest joke ever.

    ¡°Bring it on, Chen Fan! I''ll give you the first move. I''ll crush any illusions you might have.¡± Zhong Li was like a demon god, hovering in the air. Hands behind his back, he peered down at Chen Fan from above.

    He let Chen Fan make the first move¡ªa clear expression of disdain.

    Everyone knew Qi Grandmasters couldn¡¯t fly. Even if they released their primeval qi and struck from afar, they could forget about injuring a Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Truly, a fool seeking death!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed, and he struck out brazenly.

    His Wings of Rain Dragon instantly unfolded, and he vanished from view at a speed iprehensible to onlookers.

    A long spear condensed from primeval qi appeared.

    Just one strike.

    Zhong Li¡¯s enormous aura crumbled, and the spear absorbed it all, not even leaving a crumb behind.

    Chen Fan was in front of Zhong Li, and before thetter could react, Chen Fan''s palm ruthlessly struck his chest.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    This newly advanced Yuanfu realm powerhouse, the esteemed number one disciple of the outer sect, was sent hurtling and crashed onto the desert floor with a single palm strike.

    <i>Smack.</i>

    Chen Fan descended from the sky and stepped on Zhong Li¡¯s face.

    Zhong Li had barely reacted to the situation when his head was pushed into the sand, leaving him gasping for breath and gurgling in shock.

 Chapter 122 - Duan Jingtianâ€™s Voice

    <h4>Chapter 122 - Duan Jingtian¡¯s Voice</h4>

    ¡°Zhong Li, spare me your nonsensical chatter; I can''t endure it any longer. You believed you could suppress me, but you should take a better look at yourselves.¡±

    Chen Fan withdrew his primeval qi, assuming the guise of someone ordinary again. Despite the absence of any discernible aura, he seemed intimidating.

    He Junyang also slumped on the desert sand like a dead dog, trembling, failing to believe his eyes.

    Zhong Li was a Yuanfu realm expert but had been defeated in one move.

    The swiftness of the oue, coupled with the absence of an actual battle, left He Junyang dumbfounded.

    ¡°Impossible!¡± Yang Feng roared.

    They hade to the ck Sea Desert quite aggressively after Zhong Li had made his breakthrough, nning to crush Wang Fuchen and seize the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Unexpectedly, they hade face to face with Chen Fan and Qin Yao at the fringe of the desert.

    They had believed they could easily subdue the pair, extract information about Wang Fuchen, force Chen Fan to surrender his acquired opportunities, and make him their dog.

    However, He Junyang was first defeated in one move.

    Anticipating Zhong Li''s dominance over Chen Fan, they were stunned when he, too, sumbed in a single move, his head pressed into the sand beneath Chen Fan''s foot.

    The reality exceeded their mental capacity toprehend.

    In just one exchange, one move, Zhong Li was decisively defeated and humiliated.

    What had they just witnessed?

    A pair of wings had sprouted on Chen Fan¡¯s back, allowing him to traverse the skies¡ªa power that only Yuanfu realm powerhouses had.

    Yang Feng and Bing Ye¡¯s hearts were in a mess.

    <i>Not good. Quickly leave! </i>This was the only thought in Yang Feng¡¯s heart.

    However, just as he was about to run away, a primeval qi attack darted through the air, knocking him and Bing Ye to the ground.

    A primeval qi arm caught the two and brought them over, pressing them against the ground, like Zhong Li and He Junyang.

    The tables had turned instantly.

    Zhong Li¡¯s group of four hade with fierce momentum, surrounding Chen Fan and threatening to beat and kill him. However, momentster, all four were sequentially subdued and trodden beneath Chen Fan''s feet, turning into aughingstock.

    ¡°Zhong Li, your strength is a joke, so all you had to be that arrogant was your ability to fly? Do you understand that I can kill you hundreds of times over with just a snap of my fingers?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly and said, ¡°You pale inparison to Wang Fuchen. He, at least, could make me fight seriously. You... aren¡¯t even a good warm-up. And you want me to be your dog? You''ve overestimated yourself.¡±

    ¡°Damn it, Chen Fan, do you know you¡¯re courting death by acting like this? It''s a tant death wish! Do you know what the words Heaven¡¯s Alliance signify? Do you know how terrifying Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is? Do you know...¡± Yang Feng, on the ground, contorted his expression, belying unwavering arrogance despite being terrified.

    Despite his subjugation, he continued to boast, calling the names of Heaven¡¯s Alliance and Duan Jingtian to bolster his courage and attempt to intimidate Chen Fan.

    Bing Ye, the slightly pretty one, also found her expression twisting, and she shrieked, ¡°That¡¯s right, Chen Fan! Let us go right now. Apologize, andpensate us. Offer the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, and we can forgive you this once. If not, your misfortune will begin from this very moment. Even your family and n will be implicated in this.

    ¡°You definitely can¡¯t afford to offend the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Not only do disciples from both the inner and outer sects work for the alliance but even some elders with significant status align with us. Also, don¡¯t forget about the number one holy disciple of the inner sect, the exceptional Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, destined to lead the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°You offending us is equal to offending the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, which means you¡¯ve offended Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. It¡¯s a show of great disrespect to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. There will be no sanctuary for you in heaven or earth.

    "We''re willing to offer you a chance to join the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Serve our cause, work under Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, and redeem yourself!"

    ¡°Are you done?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at the bbering Yang Feng and Bing Ye, his eyes filled with ridicule. ¡°You¡¯re still trying to make threats and promises when you are eating sand before the Grim Reaper? You seem ustomed to unting your authority under Duan Jingtian''s name as a Heaven¡¯s Alliance member, disregarding all others.¡±

    ¡°What are you trying to do?!¡± Bing Ye shrieked when she noticed Chen Fan''s indifference to their words.

    ¡°What am I doing?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly as his terrifying aura surged. ¡°Weren¡¯t you people going to cripple my cultivation and kill me? I¡¯ll do precisely that... but to you guys.¡±

    ¡°You dare! We¡¯re Heaven¡¯s Alliance members, backed by Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. We are also descendants of prominent martial ns, we¡ª¡±

    ¡°Shut up!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted coldly, ¡°Your words won''t alter your fate. The moment you plotted against Senior Sister, your destiny was sealed. Being part of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance won''t save you. I''ve dealt with one of your kind before. Having Duan Jingtian in your corner won''t change anything; I''ll surpass him sooner orter and trample him under my foot.¡±

    ¡°Is that right?¡±

    A chilling yet authoritative voice suddenly reverberated through the air.

    ¡°This is... this is Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice!¡±

    Zhong Li and the others were momentarily stunned, then erupted into excitement. Their jubtion knew no bounds.

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s unmistakably Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s voice!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re done for, little bastard, haha. You¡¯re finished! You''ve sealed your fate! No matter where you hide, death awaits you. Release us now, kneel, cripple your cultivation, surrender your acquired fortunes, and willingly be our servant.¡±

    ¡°Haha, little bastard, I¡¯ll make you eat a thousand jin, no, ten thousand jin of dog shit! I¡¯ll turn you into a dog with a penchant for eating filth!¡±

    Zhong Li and the others'' expressions had turned savage again, erupting into wildughter.

    Conversely, Chen Fan''s expression darkened instantly.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice.

    How overbearing Duan Jingtian was.

    Chen Fan knew that those outside could see everything happening here, but he hadn''t anticipated Duan Jingtian to speak out when even Zhuo Bufan remained silent.

    The icy cold voice exuded indifference and authority, making it clear that challenging Duan Jingtian''s might was not an option.

    Duan Jingtian was a formidable figure¡ªa legend, an object of admiration for countless individuals.

    ......

    Dragon Mountain Peak:

    Duan Jingtian looked at the images in the primeval mirror with a cold expression.

    Chen Fan had dared to attack his Heaven¡¯s Alliance members.

    Moreover, his words and actionspletely held Heaven¡¯s Alliance and him in disregard¡ªa direct challenge to his authority.

    In the whole of the Spring Autumn Sect, who dared to challenge his prestige?

    Thus, he spoke out earlier.

    Even though this was a training held jointly by the four great sects in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, and no one was allowed to interfere during the training, he did that regardless, speaking up.

    The rules were in ce to restrain Zhuo Bufan, Leng Feng, and the others, but it didn¡¯t matter to him.

    He was Duan Jingtian, that¡¯s why!

 Chapter 123 - One Attack Across Space

    <h4>Chapter 123 - One Attack Across Space</h4>

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice had made Chen Fan¡¯s heart sink.

    Stuck between a rock and a hard ce, he wondered if he should release Zhong Li¡¯s group.

    The animosity between them had solidified, making reconciliation nearly impossible.

    Should he not let them go, then?

    Duan Jingtian stood just outside Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, and once the training concluded, a cmity would likely befall Chen Fan.

    No one was allowed to interfere during Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training.

    Yet, Duan Jingtian had tantly disregarded the rules by audibly expressing his presence. This tant overstep showcased Duan Jingtian''s dominance.

    "Heh, feeling frightened, little brat? Scared, aren''t you?" jeered He Junyang, reveling in Chen Fan''s disquiet. "Your fate was sealed the moment you crossed paths with Heaven''s Alliance. You are a dead man walking right now."

    ¡°Brat, quickly help me up!¡± Zhong Limanded sharply, also caught off guard by Duan Jingtian''s unexpected appearance outside the blessednd.

    ¡°You imbecile, quickly kneel, kowtow, and beg for our forgiveness. Are you still holding on to your pitiful delusions in front of Senior Brother Duan Jingtian? How na?ve, howughable!¡± scolded Yang Feng, his abrupt shift from fear to arrogance bordering on the absurd.

    Chen Fan grappled with a tumult of conflicting emotions

    <i>What should I do? Should I release them?</i>

    <i>Even if I release them, they will definitely not let me go! But if I kill them, death will wait for me outside the blessednd! It¡¯s death for me, no matter which path I choose!</i>

    A whirlwind of thoughts raced through Chen Fan''s mind, and the source of this mounting pressure was Duan Jingtian.

    <i>Hmph! Martial artists should have backbone, pride, and ambition. Since I¡¯m dead either way, I should take a few down as cushions for my grave. And if Zhuo Bufan and the others refuse to help me, I¡¯ll just seek refuge with the other three sects. I¡¯m sure they won¡¯t reject me with the talents I¡¯ve shown so far. That way, there¡¯s still a chance for survival!</i>

    A flicker of ruthless determination gleamed in Chen Fan''s eyes as soon as he saw the light in the darkness.

    He had found a path of life after being ced in the most desperate situation!

    ¡°Are you done yapping?¡± Chen Fan slowly looked up, his eyes filled with darkness.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s far from¡ª¡± He Junyang shouted even more arrogantly; suddenly, he couldn¡¯t utter a single word.

    Chen Fan had created a long qi spear; with a whoosh, he thrust it into He Junyang¡¯s throat.

    He Junyang''s wide-eyed stare reflected disbelief.

    Why would Chen Fan dare to do that?

    Senior Brother Duan Jingtian had already spoken. Chen Fan should have been on his knees, begging for forgiveness. Yet, he dared to kill.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Zhong Li and the rest were also stunned, horror recing the words at the tip of their tongues. Chen Fan, in their eyes, had transformed into a devil.

    Chen Fan had killed He Junyang!

    ¡°How dare you! Audacious!¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice, dripping with anger, rolled out like thunder and spread everywhere.

    Having witnessed He Junyang¡¯s death, Duan Jingtian¡¯s gaze had be iparably fierce. A terrifying aura instantly erupted from him, forming a violent gale.

    Everyone except Zhuo Bufan swiftly ascended into the air, retreating in the face of Duan Jingtian''s wrath.

    A measly outer sect disciple had dared to kill a Heaven¡¯s Alliance member in front of him.

    This made him lose face!

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Duan Jingtian was iparably callous, imposing, and overbearing. He raised his hand, and light and darkness intertwined as he brought his palm down on the primeval mirror.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Meanwhile, in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land:

    A sudden shift in weather urred in the skies above the ck Sea Desert. Primeval qi violently converged, shaping an enormous hand that nketed the heavens, descending with an overwhelming pressure.

    Chen Fan instantly felt as if he could no longer breathe. The surrounding air froze like steel.

    He knew that Duan Jingtian was orchestrating an attack through space.

    How terrifying, Duan Jingtian!

    What kind of cultivation was this? It was an awe-inspiring feat to strike through a spatial crack and across dimensions from the Dragon Mountain Peak.

    Duan Jingtian''s actions were undeniably domineering, trampling on and disregarding the established rules.

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re done for, little bastard. You¡¯ve angered Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. You''ll bear the consequences now. You have no idea how terrifying Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is. It¡¯s toote for you to have regrets now!¡±

    Zhong Li and the others were stunned at first but soon broke out intoughter, their eyes filled with pleasure.

    However, Chen Fan had no time or attention to waste on them.

    Chen Fan remainedser-focused, his expression grave.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation was too scary and powerful.

    The ability to attack through space showcased a level of strength that surpassed hisprehension.

    The colossal hand descending upon him contained a force capable of inducing despair even in Yuanfu realm powerhouses.

    It was a life-or-death moment. Chen Fan bellowed, unleashing a surge of primeval qi that billowed like a tempest. It erupted from his head, forming an expansive sea of primeval qi.

    The robustness of his primeval qi shocked even Zhuo Bufan and the others watching on the Dragon Mountain Peak.

    Deep inside his dantian, the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo revolved violently. Rumbling noises resounded as if magma from hell was churning and the devils were roaring.

    Chen Fan''s flesh and blood resonated with the hiss of ancient wild elephants and the distant roar of a dragon.

    After reforging himself with dragon blood, he now had the powers of a dragon¡¯s bloodline. The ancient wild elephant had evolved into an ancient dragon-elephant.

    The dragon-elephant hissed, an unstoppable force trampling heaven and earth.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan roared with fury, pushing his strength to the limit. His aura erupted, fighting against the oppressive force of the descending hand that veiled the skies.

    With nowhere to escape, he could only fight the hand descending relentlessly.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God''s Strength!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, Battling Heaven and Earth!¡±

    Chen Fan roared to the skies, his aura rich and powerful.

    His cultivation revolved fiercely, and his primeval qi surged like a torrent. Three heads and six arms struck simultaneously, and his attacks rushed out like meteors, stars, and rivers.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A thunderous rumble reverberated through space as Chen Fan''s primeval qi wreaked havoc.

    The onught hit Zhong Li''s group like a sledgehammer, making them spew blood uncontrobly.

    Amid the chaos, Chen Fan''s eyes gleamed with razor-sharp focus, feeling the weight of an ancient sacred mountain attempting to crush him into oblivion.

    His three heads and six arms relentlessly bombarded the colossal hand, depleting his primeval qi at an rming rate. The oppressive force of the descending hand seemed insurmountable.

    A primeval qi arm copsed.

    Two primeval qi arms copsed.

    A primeval qi head shattered.

    Chen Fan''s arms moved in a blur, striking the enormous hand like a relentless tide. The force in his punches could shake mountains and rivers, the strength in his palms crossing the nine heavens.

    Each sessive punch outpaced thest, and every palm strike intensified in fierceness.

    <i>Crack! Crack!</i>

    Under Chen Fan¡¯s crazy barrage of attacks, cracks appeared on the enormous heaven-obscuring primeval qi hand.

    However, the toll on Chen Fan became evident; he was now in an extremely dire state.

    His three heads and six arms were gone. The pressure had torn his clothes and skin, making fresh blood gush like a stream.

    The colossal hand forcefully pushed him into the desert sand. Despite this, Chen Fan''s resilience remained unbroken; he refused to bow even an inch.

    His blood was boiling.

    His primeval qi was burning.

    His strength was surging.

    So what if he was Duan Jingtian?

    Not even he can force him to bow!

    ¡°Shatter!¡±

    With a defiant roar, his arms, seemingly crafted from steel, struck ruthlessly. Empowered by the ancient dragon-elephant''s might, he finally shattered the descending heaven-obscuring hand with a resounding rumble.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    The enormous hand exploded like a firecracker, turning into rolling primeval qi and dissipating into the air.

 Chapter 124 - One Thing After Another

    <h4>Chapter 124 - One Thing After Another</h4>

    The heaven-obscuring hand had shattered, but Chen Fan was bloodied and battered. Still, his eyes gleamed with vitality and high spirits.

    Zhong Li''s group stood in dumbfounded silence.

    Duan Jingtian''s space-warping attack had less than ten percent of his power, but that should have been enough to annihte even a first-level Yuanfu realm practitioner.

    Yet, Chen Fan had shattered it.

    Although Chen Fan was in a miserable state, he had indeed blocked Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack.

    ¡°This... how is this possible!¡±

    They were shocked to their core.

    In their hearts, Duan Jingtian was god-like; no one dared to challenge or resist his words.

    ......

    Dragon Mountain Peak:

    <i>It failed. </i>Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes narrowed.

    His attack had failed to kill the ant.

    Anger rose inside him, and he instantly wanted to make another move.

    ¡°Enough!¡± said Zhuo Bufan suddenly.

    The cold shout held back Duan Jingtian. He turned over indifferently and said, ¡°You¡¯re going to stop me, Sect Master?¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, you¡¯ve already attacked once and vited the rules. How should the three other great sects look upon your actions?¡± Zhuo Bufan said coldly, reciprocating to Duan Jingtian¡¯s indifference.

    Overseeing Dragon Mountain Peak, Zhuo Bufan felt Duan Jingtian''s move was akin to a p to his face.

    One move could have been tolerated, but he failed to kill Chen Fan with that. His readiness for another move was a clear disregard for Zhuo Bufan, the outer sect master.

    Although Duan Jingtian had high status and strong cultivation, as the Outer Sect Master, was Zhuo Bufan¡¯s status not high and his cultivation low?

    All martial artists had dignity.

    If Duan Jingtian wouldn¡¯t give him face, Zhuo Bufan decided to reciprocate in kind.

    Although Duan Jingtian was likely the next sect leader, his ascension held no immediate relevance to their current situation.

    ¡°You¡¯ve gone too far, Duan Jingtian!¡± Leng Feng and the elders from the other three great sects also approached them and spoke indifferently.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s actions disregarded the three sects.

    Duan Jingtian, unmoved, didn''t spare a nce for those elders, deeming them unqualified because of their Yuanfu realm cultivation, even if they held the status of elders.

    ¡°Sect Master Zhuo, this wretched beast Chen Fan brutally ughtered his fellow disciples. I¡¯m cleansing the sect of traitors,¡± Duan Jingtian said icily.

    Zhuo Bufan said, ¡°Duan Jingtian, we¡¯ll discuss this matter after the training ends. Although the Sect Leader is putting great effort into grooming you, don¡¯t forget what the training in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land represents. If your actions jeopardize Spring Autumn Sect''s chance of securing first ce, exining it to the Sect Leader won''t be easy for either of us.¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes shone, and he said icily, ¡°Fine, then we¡¯ll talk about it after Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training ends.¡±

    He decided to let Chen Fan live for a few more days. After Chen Fan exits the blessednd, who could stop him from killing Chen Fan?

    ......

    While Chen Fan resisted Duan Jingtian''s spatial attack, Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing led the disciples from their respective sects toward the scene.

    ¡°Chu Qing.¡±

    ¡°Xuan Feixue.¡±

    The two ran into each other, their gazes focused on the far distance where the periphery of the ck Sea Desert loomed.

    An enormous hand had covered the skies there, emitting a terrifying aura that sent shivers down their spines.

    ¡°How terrifying. So, this is Duan Jingtian¡¯s strength? Even an attack through space from him contains enough power to kill a first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse. No wonder he''s ranked tenth on the Great Chu Empire''s Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard,¡± Xuan Feixue whispered, his eyes narrowing.

    ¡°I know, right? In Qingyang County¡¯s territory, with Duan Jingtian among the four great sects, the younger generation all feel suppressed. It''s truly frightening.¡± Chu Qing sighed.

    Xuan Feixue said, ¡°Duan Jingtian disregarded and trampled on the rules, striking through space. How tyrannical! There''s a good eighty to ny percent chance he''ll be the next Sect Leader of the Spring Autumn Sect. If he assumes that position, it won''t bode well for the other three sects.¡±

    Chu Qing whispered, ¡°Duan Jingtian is extremely ambitious. If he bes the Sect Leader of the Spring Autumn Sect, given his talents and strength, I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll make our three great sects submit to the Spring Autumn Sect in the future.¡±

    ¡°The heavens are really unfair. In thest generation, Duan Jingtian emerged, and now, in our generation, Chen Fan has appeared in the Spring Autumn Sect as well. These two are monstrous. Duan Jingtian¡¯s name has spread far and wide. Putting him aside, Chen Fan rose like aet. A Qi Grandmaster capable of killing a first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse? I¡¯ve never heard something like this before. What a freak!¡± Xuan Feixue said.

    ¡°Fortunately, Duan Jingtian and Chen Fan are at odds. Otherwise, the three great sects would truly be facing a disaster,¡± Chu Qing said with another sigh.

    ¡°Amazing. Truly amazing. Not even an attack through space from Duan Jingtian could kill him.¡± Xuan Feixue marveled at Chen Fan''s strength as he witnessed Chen Fan destroying the enormous hand.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was only in the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    Chu Qing said, ¡°The Ice Jade Snow Lotus is on Chen Fan. What are you going to do? Every training at Dragon Mountain Blessed Land is connected to the interests of the four great sects. Chen Fan has already killed Wang Fuchen, while Zhong Li is now half-dead. Chen Fan...¡±

    Xuan Feixue¡¯s eyes shone because Chen Fan looked miserable, his battered torso sticking out of the desert sand. He quickly suggested, ¡°Chu Qing, do you want to cooperate with me for a bit?¡±

    ¡°What kind of cooperation do you propose?¡± Chu Qing asked, his eyes lighting up.

    ¡°Although Chen Fan is all bloodied and has suffered heavy injuries, he¡¯s not on hisst legs just yet. If someone like that decides to act ruthlessly and go all-out, neither you nor I can be confident in escaping unscathed.¡±

    Xuan Feixue smiled, ¡°You see that woman there? We¡¯ll capture her to threaten Chen Fan and force him to give up. Then, we''ll seize the opportunity to attack, rendering him powerless. As for who ultimately gets the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, we''ll settle it through a fair duel. The winner will im the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. How about that?¡±

    Chu Qing''s eyes shifted as he contemted before he nodded. "Alright, let''s proceed as you suggest."

    Xuan Feixue smiled, ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, let¡¯s get moving and capture that woman.¡±

    The two immediately moved into action, soaring through the sky like lightning. Simultaneously, they attacked, reaching for Qin Yao.

    Qin Yao was just about to go see how Chen Fan was doing. Before she could head over, she felt a sudden, powerful force restraining her, rendering her immobile.

    Chu Qing and Xuan Feixue descended. A surge of primeval force infiltrated Qin Yao, sealing her meridians and leaving her powerless to resist.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Qin Yao¡¯splexion paled.

    It seemed that trouble was relentlessly finding them today, with members from Mountain River Sect and Burning Incense Valley¡ªXuan Feixue and Chu Qing¡ªhaving arrived. Moreover, both had broken through to the Yuanfu realm and now they had captured her.

    Xuan Feixue said, ¡°No need to panic. We only need you to help us with a matter.¡±

    With that, he reached into the air, using primeval qi to lift Qin Yao, and together they flew toward Chen Fan.

 Chapter 125 - Threaten

    <h4>Chapter 125 - Threaten</h4>

    ¡°Who can possibly save you now?¡± Chen Fan looked at Zhong Li¡¯s group, his voice indifferent.

    Caught in the aftermath of the attack, Zhong Li¡¯s group was heavily injured, their breathsbored. Fear surged in their eyes upon hearing Chen Fan''s killing intent-filled words.

    Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack through space couldn¡¯t kill Chen Fan. How was that possible?

    Chen Fan''s im of having killed Wang Fuchen now carried a weight of authenticity.

    Seeing the fear-stricken trio, Chen Fan relished the pleasure of absolute control pulsating within him.

    This was power.

    This was dignity.

    In this world, only power could confer such honor.

    ¡°Who exactly are you? What miraculous encounter granted you such prowess? A mere Qi Grandmaster dismantling Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s attack? Reveal yourself! How can amoner have such strength?! A demon or a devil must be possessing you. I''ll report this to the sect for a thorough investigation!

    Zhong Li couldn¡¯t ept that Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack failed. Even he, a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, couldn¡¯t have resisted it.

    ¡°You¡¯re still delusional? Can¡¯t you understand the current situation?¡± Chen Fan retorted, stepping forcefully upon Zhong Li. Primeval qi surged, prating Zhong Li''s meridians, eliciting intense pain as he screamed, akin to a pig being ughtered.

    ¡°Are you in despair, consumed by shame? Once, you regarded me as no more than an ant, yet you couldn''t bend me to your will. Now, you¡¯re struggling under my feet. How does it feel? Do you feel like vomiting blood? Do you feel like killing yourself?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was cold, and his voice icy. ¡°Do you believe I have the power to cripple your cultivation, rendering your life''s efforts futile?¡±

    Zhong Li sensed Chen Fan¡¯s primeval qi wreaking havoc inside him again. Fear finally crept up to his face, ¡°Let¡¯s talk this over! Let¡¯s talk this over! I¡¯m a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Aren¡¯t you afraid of Senior Brother Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian? If I was afraid of him, I would have stood there and let his palm hit me without resisting! Moreover, will he not find trouble with me if I¡¯m afraid of him? I had no grudges with your Heaven¡¯s Alliance, yet you wanted me to end up in a miserable state all the same! In that case, I see no reason not to be more ruthless.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned grim.

    ¡°I promise! I promise to never find trouble with you again in the future," Zhong Li pled earnestly.

    Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°Your promise means nothing to me. I''ve spoken at length to make one thing clear¡ªyou brought this upon yourselves.¡±

    ¡°I, Chen Fan, abide by the principle of not interfering if left alone, but if crossed, I will not hesitate to eliminate the threat! You shouldn''t have provoked me, thinking you could act as you wish by relying on Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s name. Must everyone bow to your authority?¡±

    A surge of primeval qi rushed into Zhong Li.

    <i>Pop!</i>

    A sound akin to firecrackers echoed within Zhong Li, his meridians crumbling under the force.

    Zhong Li¡¯s eyes went deathly gray.

    He finally realized that Chen Fan was really about to cripple his cultivation, turning him into a waste. It was worse than dying.

    In this world where martial arts were honored and the strong preyed on the weak, he would be more miserable than a ve without his cultivation.

    Zhong Li felt a blend of hatred and regret.

    If he had known he would end up like this, he wouldn¡¯t have relied on his status and cultivation to bully and humiliate Chen Fan. Or perhaps he would have killed Chen Fan before he grew to eliminate all future troubles.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Meanwhile, Yang Feng and Bing Ye wore expressions of sheer horror. They immediately knelt on the ground and kowtowed profusely, begging for mercy. ¡°Please let me go, please let me go. Don¡¯t cripple my cultivation. Don¡¯t cripple my cultivation. I¡¯m willing to work like a ve for you. I¡¯ll do whatever you ask of me.¡±

    These two were truly scared for their lives.

    They thought they were safe when Duan Jingtian had attacked. However, they never expected Chen Fan to be strong enough to destroy Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack.

    If they had been outside, they would have been arrogant instead of being paralyzed by fear.

    With Duan Jingtian unable to intervene, Chen Fan held absolute power over them. And being without cultivation was a prospect scarier than death itself.

    ¡°Now that fear grips your hearts, you seek mercy? It''s toote!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart didn¡¯t soften, and he struck out with two palms.

    Primeval qi rushed into them, crippling their cultivation. Instantly, theirplexions paled, and they became dazed.

    ¡°Impressive, truly impressive! Makes one look at you in a new light!¡±

    Suddenly,ughter resounded.

    ¡°Senior Sister!¡±

    Chen Fan saw Chu Qing and Xuan Feixue flying over, with thetter holding Qin Yao captive.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s eyes were filled with tears.

    She hated her ipetence, dragging Chen Fan¡¯s feet time and again by bing a hostage the enemies used to threaten Chen Fan.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, Senior Sister. I¡¯ll save you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s icy gaze settled on Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing. A cold killing intent emanated from him, chilling those who felt it to their very core.

    Having expended all his efforts on thwarting Duan Jingtian''s attack earlier, Chen Fan had neglected to assess his surroundings. He didn¡¯t expect Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing to have captured Qin Yao.

    How vile!

    ¡°Let go of my Senior Sister. I can give you the Ice Jade Snow Lotus,¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    Aware that the captors sought the lotus, he was willing to surrender it to ensure Qin Yao''s safety.

    ¡°Haha, how straightforward!¡±

    Xuan Feixueughed out loud. However, he immediately said coldly, ¡°I might release her, but how can we be certain you''ll deliver the Ice Jade Snow Lotus afterward? And whether you¡¯ll try to kill us?¡±

    Chen Fan said, ¡°I presume you must have seen what happened. I exhausted almost all of my primeval qi trying to stop Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack. I am also heavily injured. If you join forces, I would be no match for you. Aren¡¯t you holding my Senior Sister captive because you¡¯re afraid I might risk my life to fight back, dragging you down with me?! I guarantee I''ll hand over the Ice Jade Snow Lotus once you release my Senior Sister. I¡¯m a man of my word!¡±

    ¡°Haha, you saw through that. Smart.¡± Xuan Feixue chuckled, ¡°But I still don¡¯t believe you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes gleamed. ¡°What must I do for you to release my Senior Sister?"

    Xuan Feixue replied, ¡°Give us the Ice Jade Snow Lotus first.¡±

    ¡°Fine.¡±

    Chen Fan threw the Ice Jade Snow Lotus over without hesitation.

    ¡°Straightforward!¡±

    Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing sent out a wisp of primeval force almost simultaneously, wrapping the Ice Jade Snow Lotus.

    Although the two had formed a temporary alliance, they didn¡¯t trust each other and were on guard against one another.

    ¡°Now that I¡¯ve given you the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, you can let my Senior Sister go!¡± Chen Fan looked at them coldly.

    Xuan Feixue said, ¡°No hurry. You still need to receive an attack from each of us. We¡¯ll let her go once we confirm you have no power to resist us.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze suddenly turned cold as he said, ¡°Fine, but you must let my Senior Sister go first. Otherwise... Senior Sister, are you afraid of death?¡±

    Qin Yao shook her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid!¡±

    ¡°You heard her.¡± Chen Fan stared at Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing coldly.

 Chapter 126 - Final Victor?

    <h4>Chapter 126 - Final Victor?</h4>

    ¡°You heard her.¡±

    Grim determination etched across Chen Fan''s face as he stared at Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing. ¡°My Senior Sister isn¡¯t afraid of death. If she dies, rest assured, both of you will follow suit even if I¡¯m currently in poor condition.¡±

    Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing''s expressions darkened simultaneously, a shiver running through their hearts.

    "I''ve given you the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Now, release my Senior Sister, and I''ll take a blow from each of you,¡± Chen Fan said coldly, firm in his stance, brooking no opposition.

    Qin Yao hurriedly shouted, ¡°Don¡¯t, Xiaofan...¡±

    A gentle smile appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s face as he said, ¡°It''s fine, Senior Sister. I''ve said it before¡ªI''m willing to do anything to save you.¡±

    His expression suddenly turned cold, and he continued, ¡°Are you done thinking? Release my Senior Sister, or we shall all die here.¡±

    Xuan Feixue¡¯s eyes shone, and he said, ¡°How can we be certain you won''t renege on your word once we release your senior sister?¡±

    Chen Fan scornfully said, ¡°I''m severely injured, barely at ten percent of my full strength. I¡¯m not stupid enough to seek death after my Senior Sister¡¯s out of your grasp. I value my life as much as you do. I won''t backtrack on my promise; I''ll endure one attack from each of you.¡±

    After pondering briefly, Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing nodded. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll do as you say.¡±

    With a wave of his arm, the force binding Qin Yao dissipated, granting her freedom of movement.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    Qin Yao was about to run toward Chen Fan, but he immediately roared, ¡°Leave, Senior Sister!¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    ¡°Go! Don¡¯t drag me down!¡± Chen Fan yelled.

    Qin Yao paused momentarily before she started crying, her hands covering her mouth. She turned around to run in the distance.

    Xuan Feixue said, ¡°Chen Fan, we¡¯ve released your senior sister. Don''t attempt any tricks. I have left a wisp of my primeval force inside her. If you dare y any tricks, I¡¯ll instantly detonate it.¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes gleamed, a cold light shing within them. ¡°I won¡¯t. Make your move.¡±

    ¡°Haha, good!¡±

    Xuan Feixueughed out loud. With a swift motion, he struck Chen Fan with a palm.

    Frost encased Chen Fan, and a dark cloud of cold qi, half the size of a mu, condensed above him. Countless snowkes fell, threatening to turn Chen Fan into an iceman. [1]

    ¡°Senior Brother¡¯s Hornless Ice Dragon Cultivation Technique is so powerful. The cold intent from his palm can instantly freeze one¡¯s vitality. So cold.¡±

    Several Mountain River Sect disciples¡¯ eyes were filled with awe and fear when they saw this scene unfold.

    Frozen from head to toe and heavily injured, Chen Fan still retained a shred of power to resist. However, he reluctantly gave up on that for Qin Yao''s safety.

    Even so, he was secretly revolving the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo.

    The formidable cold qi invaded him, wreaking havoc in his meridians before being absorbed and refined by the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn, Chu Qing,¡± Xuan Feixue said to Chu Qing with a smile, looking at Chen Fan, who had turned into an ice sculpture.

    Chu Qing nodded, ayer of golden light surrounding him as he moved swiftly to strike the ¡°icy sculpture.¡±

    <i>Crack! Crack!</i>

    The ice sculpture shattered immediately, revealing Chen Fan.

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    The terrifying force rushed into Chen Fan, exacerbating his injuries, and he spat arge mouthful of blood.

    Still, he didn¡¯t sumb to the injuries.

    His aura had weakened significantly. He cast a cold gaze at Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing, then turned to leave.

    ¡°Get him!¡±

    Suddenly, Xuan Feixue shouted coldly, and the two lunged at Chen Fan,unching another assault.

    Chen Fan had anticipated this; his Wings of Rain Dragon spread open with a whoosh.

    He ascended into the skies with a single p, heading toward Qin Yao. His voice echoed with killing intent.

    ¡°I¡¯ll remember this!¡±

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Xuan Feixue erupted in anger, his murderous intent almost tangible.

    He couldn¡¯t be at peace if Chen Fan didn¡¯t die.

    After all, Chen Fan was too monstrous. Once he recovered from his injuries, they would be as good as dead.

    Chu Qing¡¯s gaze was simrly dark.

    They had miscalcted.

    Unexpectedly, Chen Fan still had strength left even after enduring a strike from both of them. And since he had chosen to escape instead of fight, his injuries had to be serious.

    However, Chen Fan''s velocity was astonishing; they couldn''t catch up.

    A strange light shed in Chu Qing¡¯s eyes. He turned around and attacked Xuan Feixue with a palm. ¡°Get him!¡±

    Xuan Feixue had anticipated this, so heughed out loud. ¡°Haha, it¡¯s useless, Chu Qing. In this year¡¯s blessednd training, there can only be one ultimate victor, and that''s me!¡±

    ¡°Burst!¡±

    Xuan Feixue pointed with his finger, making Chu Qing stagger, a golden light enveloping him like he had suffered a heavy blow.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    Chu Qing looked at Xuan Feixue in shock.

    Xuan Feixueughed coldly, ¡°A strand of my cold qi entered you when you shattered the ice sculpture earlier.¡±

    ¡°Impossible, I clearly checked it.¡± Chu Qing had a look of disbelief.

    Xuan Feixue mocked, ¡°Haha, how funny. The primeval force cultivated through my Hornless Ice Dragon Cultivation Technique isn''t easily discernible. Although it''s merely a strand and won''t inflict serious damage, it''s enough to tilt the scales in my favor.¡±

    Xuan Feixueunched a furious barrage of attacks on Chu Qing, wrapped in a storm of ice and snow.

    A bone-chilling intent permeated the surroundings, and snowkes descended from the heavens.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Intense ripples of primeval qi immediately erupted at the edge of the desert.

    ......

    ¡°Senior Sister!¡±

    Chen Fan caught up to Qin Yao and descended. He stumbled as hended, spewing out arge mouthful of blood.

    ¡°How are you feeling, Xiaofan?¡±

    Qin Yao hurriedly supported Chen Fan. Large beads of tears rolled off her cheeks as she med herself. ¡°It¡¯s all my fault. It¡¯s all my fault. I¡¯m always dragging you down. You wouldn¡¯t be in this state if it weren¡¯t for me.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say something so silly, Senior Sister.¡±

    Chen Fan forced out a smile, one that looked quite ugly, and said, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s quickly leave and find a safe ce to recuperate.¡±

    ......

    In an inconspicuous cave:

    ¡°Pfft! Pfft! Pfft!¡±

    Chen Fan vomited three mouthfuls of blood as soon as they entered the cave. Hisplexion turned ashen, devoid of color.

    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re vomiting blood again, Xiaofan.¡± Qin Yao turned pale with fright.

    Chen Fan smiled, ¡°I have lots of blood. Vomiting a few mouthfuls doesn¡¯t matter.¡±

    ¡°Stop talking. Sit down and recuperate. Here, take these pills.¡±

    Qin Yao hurriedly took out a few spiritual pills and stuffed them inside Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. A warm current spread through him, slightly alleviating his injuries.

    Chen Fan sat down and said to Qin Yao, ¡°Senior Sister, a strand of Xuan Feixue¡¯s primeval force is inside you, so he could use it to locate us. Sit down. I¡¯ll use my cultivation to refine it away. It¡¯ll be dangerous at that time.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Qin Yao hurriedly agreed.

    Chen Fan sent a wisp of primeval qi into Qin Yao, navigating through her meridians. Soon, he located the dormant strand of cold primeval force left behind by Xuan Feixue. Sending more primeval qi, he enveloped and refined it away, eliminating any potential threats.

    1. Reminder that 1 hectare is 15 mu ?

 Chapter 127 - Freakish Recovery

    <h4>Chapter 127 - Freakish Recovery</h4>

    Dragon Mountain Peak:

    ¡°Impressive. Truly impressive, these intricate schemes!¡± Zhuo Bufan remarked with a cold smile as he watched the unfolding events.

    Unexpectedly, the final victor had turned out to be Mountain River Sect¡¯s Xuan Feixue.

    Cai Chixia smiled, seemingly oblivious to Zhuo Bufan''s mocking tone. ¡°In victory, tricks are inconsequential. What matters is the oue.¡±

    The Mountain River Sect could very well turn out to be the winner of this year¡¯s Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Zhuo Bufan harrumphed coldly, not delving further into the conversation.

    Chen Fan, having defeated Wang Fuchen and secured the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, had encountered Zhong Li''s group at the desert''s edge. Those four weren¡¯t a match for Chen Fan at all.

    s, Duan Jingtian''s unexpected intervention injured Chen Fan, paving the way for Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing to capitalize on the situation.

    Not only was the coveted Ice Jade Snow Lotus taken from Chen Fan, but he also suffered additional injuries. The efforts expended seemed futile, akin to drawing water with a bamboo basket, ultimately benefiting Xuan Feixue.

    Thinking of this, Zhuo Bufan grew even more unhappy with Duan Jingtian.

    If not for Duan Jingtian heavily injuring Chen Fan, Qin Yao wouldn¡¯t have gotten captured by Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing. Even if they had joined hands then, they would have had great difficulty snatching the Ice Jade Snow Lotus away from Chen Fan.

    After receiving injuries from Duan Jingtian, Xuan Feixue, and Chu Qing, Chen Fan was in bad shape. With only three days remaining in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training, recovery for Chen Fan, who had sustained serious injuries, seemed impossible.

    This year, their Spring Autumn Sect had truly suffered a double loss.

    Among the four great sects, the Floating Cloud Sword Sect members, however, had the ugliest expressions.

    Starting with Wang Tengfei''s group, followed by more disciples at the beach, and now Wang Fuchen''s group¡ªChen Fan had killed all ten disciples from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    They had lost all of their top ten outer sect disciples. Leng Feng and the other elders hated Chen Fan to the bones!

    ......

    Two days went by in a sh.

    An unprecedented calm had enveloped the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land

    The battle at the edge of the ck Sea Desert ended with Xuan Feixue heavily injuring Chu Qing and obtaining the final victory. The Ice Jade Snow Lotus also ended up in his hands.

    Although he had defeated Chu Qing, the injuries he received weren¡¯t light. Seeking to recuperate, Xuan Feixue led the Mountain River Sect disciples to a secluded location, awaiting the rm that marked training''s end.

    Meanwhile, after losing to Xuan Feixue, Chu Qing escaped with the Burning Incense Valley disciples and hid somewhere to heal their injuries.

    The training at Dragon Mountain Blessed Land was about to end.

    He knew they didn¡¯t have much hope of snatching the Ice Jade Snow Lotus from Xuan Feixue and could only recuperate quietly. He gathered his fellow disciples spread out in the blessednd and waited for the training to end.

    The final rankings for second, third, and fourth ce would be determined by the number of survivors emerging from the blessednd. For first ce, the Ice Jade Snow Lotus alone held power, disregarding the count of disciples.

    Although they couldn¡¯t obtain first ce for the Burning Incense Valley, they had to secure at least second ce.

    ¡°How are your injuries, Senior Brother?¡± Chu Qing emerged from a cave in a valley, greeted by concerned Burning Incense Valley disciples.

    Chu Qing shook his head and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing to be worried about now. Our failure to secure the Ice Jade Snow Lotus rests on my shoulders. If it weren¡¯t for my carelessness, falling victim to Xuan Feixue''s sneak attack, the lotus would have been ours.¡±

    ¡°No need to me yourself, Senior Brother. Even without the lotus, our sect still has eight surviving disciples, which should secure us second ce¡ªa significant improvement fromst year.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Senior Brother, you did your best. The elders won''t fault us.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s our weakness that dragged Senior Brother down.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Amid the ovepping reassurances, Chu Qing gazed into the distance and said, ¡°Let¡¯s hope so. Chen Fan''s escape leaves me uneasy. Killing a Yuanfu realm powerhouse as a Qi Grandmaster defies all norms... He is a monster. We failed to kill him, and that will be a disaster for us when he catches his breath.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother, no matter how strong he is, he was first heavily injured by Duan Jingtian, then received an attack from both you and Xuan Feixue. Even if he¡¯s fine, he should be on hisst legs. He can¡¯t recover in three days.¡±

    ¡°Once we leave Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, it won''t matter how strong he is. Will he daree running to Burning Incense Valley to seek revenge?¡± said a Burning Incense Valley Qi Grandmaster.

    Chu Qing said, ¡°Let¡¯s hope he doesn¡¯t recover in time.¡±

    ......

    In a cave, Chen Fan sat on the ground, his eyes shut, recovering from his injuries.

    His injuries were very severe.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation was deep. Although his attack through space only had approximately ten percent of his strength, it was enough to kill a first-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    Fending off his attack had left Chen Fan with heavy injuries. His tough flesh had split open, and his organs had ruptured and shifted positions, resulting in extensive injuries.

    Subsequently, Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing hit him one after another.

    Although Chen Fan activated the Heaven Seizing Furnace embryo to neutralize some force in their blows, half of their strength had still rushed into Chen Fan, exacerbating his injuries.

    However, he had reforged his physique with dragon blood. The divine dragon blood had bestowed upon him not only immense strength but also an unparalleled recovery speed.

    A drop of dragon blood could suppress the ages. A physique reforged with it mirrored dragon abilities, such as the remarkable pace of recovery.

    With further support from spiritual pills, his recovery sped up even more.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    In the wide meridians inside Chen Fan, his primeval qi was rushing like a flood, generating majestic rumbling sounds.

    After two days of recuperation and absorbing thousands of primeval stones, his nearly exhausted primeval qi was finally filled to the brim, emitting a sparkling light in his dantian, looking more condensed and refined than before.

    The cracks on the surface of his internal organs had disappeared, reced by vitality pulsating forcefully, akin to a robust oven in action.

    Astonishingly, in just two days, Chen Fan''s injuries underwent nearplete healing.

    To put things into perspective, anyone injured as heavily as Chen Fan would need to recuperate for at least a month to recover fully.

    However, it had taken only two days for him to almostpletely recover from his injuries, with strength surging inside him.

    This was his monstrous recovery speed after reforging his physique with dragon blood.

    <i>Bzzt!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes suddenly shot open, a sh of electricity sparking within them. His gaze appeared iparably profound.

    ¡°How are you feeling now, Xiaofan?¡± Qin Yao hurriedly asked when she saw Chen Fan opening his eyes.

    Chen Fan smiled, ¡°My injuries are nothing serious now, Senior Sister. It¡¯s time to go take revenge.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up as he spoke. A wild aura swept out, making Qin Yao¡¯s heart palpitate.

 Chapter 128 - Killing Xuan Feixue

    <h4>Chapter 128 - Killing Xuan Feixue</h4>

    Xuan Feixue had led the Mountain River Sect disciples to a stream valley to recuperate.

    ¡°Senior Brother, your courage and intelligence yed a pivotal role this time. You secured the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, earning great merit for our sect. When you enter the inner sect, they may fast-track you as a core disciple due to your exceptional achievements.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. While following Senior Brother in the blessednd, we thrived under your guidance, making breakthroughs in our cultivation and gaining merit through your care.¡±

    ¡°We''ll rely on your guidance when entering the inner sect, Senior Brother.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Mountain River Sect disciplesplimented him continuously in awe.

    ¡°Enough.¡±

    Xuan Feixue waved his hand, stopping them from buttering him up any further. His furrowed eyebrows hinted at a lingering concern.

    One of the disciples asked, ¡°Senior Brother, what are you worried about?¡±

    Xuan Feixue said inly, ¡°The strand of primeval force I left in Qin Yao was removed. I can¡¯t sense it. I wanted to use it to kill Chen Fan after taking the Ice Jade Snow Lotus to eliminate all future troubles. However, I can¡¯t track them now; hence, the unease.¡±

    ¡°You might be overly worried, Senior Brother. Although Chen Fan is formidable, he sustained injuries on top of his existing ones and should be on hisst leg. If he hadn''t escaped quickly, he would have died in the ck Sea Desert. He likely hasn''t fully recovered with only a day left in the training. After we leave Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, could he possiblye to settle scores with us after recovering?¡±

    This disciple had a clear view of the situation. ¡°Moreover, he offended Duan Jingtian. Given Duan Jingtian¡¯s strength and prestige in the Spring Autumn Sect, I¡¯m afraid Duan Jingtian will kill him the second he leaves the blessednd. He is a dead man walking.¡±

    Xuan Feixue¡¯s furrowed eyebrow smoothed out, and he said, ¡°You¡¯re right. Given his injuries, a full recovery in just three days is impossible, not to mention he¡¯s offended Duan Jingtian. He will be dead the second he leaves. I can¡¯t believe I was worrying about a dead man¡¯s revenge. I must be crazy.¡±

    Having voiced these thoughts, Xuan Feixue seemed to have released a weight from his heart and burst into rxedughter.

    Chen Fan was truly too strong, capable of killing a first-level Yuanfu realm expert while being a mere Qi Grandmaster.

    Xuan Feixue had failed to kill Chen Fan, leaving a lingering worry about potential retaliation. Nevertheless, reassured by his junior brother''s words, he quickly regained hisposure.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    However, a sudden rumbling disrupted the calm.

    The ground in the stream valley trembled, resembling an earthquake. The faces of Xuan Feixue and the others changed in response.

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±

    ¡°Could it be an earthquake?¡±

    ¡°Earthquake, my ass. We¡¯re in a blessednd. Where would an earthquakee from?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Mountain River Sect disciples exchanged guesses, their voices filled with panic.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Xuan Feixue¡¯s expression sank. He rose to the skies; suddenly, his pupils shrunk violently.

    He saw someone flying toward them from outside the stream valley.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡± Xuan Feixue cried out in shock subconsciously.

    He had just ovee his concerns about Chen Fan seeking revenge after epting his junior brother¡¯s reassurance; unexpectedly, Chen Fan appeared.

    <i>Flutter.</i>

    The pping of Chen Fan¡¯s Wings of Rain Dragon brought whirlwinds with him as he flew, and he swiftly covered the distance to the stream valley in the blink of an eye.

    Standing proudly in the air with crossed arms, he addressed Xuan Feixue with a cold smile. ¡°You seem very surprised, Xuan Feixue.¡±

    Xuan Feixue stared fixedly at Chen Fan and shrieked, ¡°How is this possible? How did you recover without a week or half a month of recovery from those severe injuries?¡±

    Chen Fan curled his lips, smirking. ¡°How ignorant. Ever heard of recovery pills? To you, a top-grade recovery pill might be a luxury, but to me, it''s asmon as candy. I mayck many things, but primeval stones are not one of them.¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t care whether Xuan Feixue believed him. He kept bluffing and exaggerating things.

    He certainly didn''t possess a top-grade recovery pill or an abundance of primeval stones¡ªhe actuallycked everything.

    Aware of onlookers outside Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, he feltpelled to exin to dispel any suspicions.

    Those outside would grow suspicious of him if he didn''t exin himself. So, he attributed his recovery to a top-grade recovery pill, dispelling the people¡¯s doubts.

    Xuan Feixue''s expression darkened, as he hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to have a top-grade recovery pill.

    ¡°How did you find us?¡± Xuan Feixue asked.

    This stream valley was quite out of sight; not many knew about it. So, how did Chen Fan find them?

    He didn¡¯t believe for a second that Chen Fan just chanced upon their location.

    Chen Fan grinned and said, ¡°Did you think snatching my Ice Jade Snow Lotus would be so easy? You must think that only you can leave primeval qi inside things.¡±

    ¡°Impossible! I checked the Ice Jade Snow Lotus inside out multiple times. You couldn¡¯t have left it inside the lotus!¡± Xuan Feixue yelled.

    Chen Fan casually replied, "If you don''t trust me, consider it a fortunate ident that we crossed paths."

    ¡°Alright, I can¡¯t be bothered wasting time talking with you.¡± Chen Fan''s expression turned cold in an instant.

    A formidable aura emanated from him, creating a weighty pressure that enveloped Xuan Feixue and his group as though an enormous, invisible mountain descended upon them.

    ¡°Get him!¡± Xuan Feixue yelled. His powerful aura erupted, and an ice dragon rushed out.

    Simultaneously, the disciples of the Mountain River Sect below unleashed their primeval qi to attack Chen Fan.

    ¡°Mere ants trying to shake a tree!¡± Chen Fan harrumphed indifferently.

    A fierce gale shredded the attacks from below with a p of his wings.

    In a swift motion, he delivered a punch, disintegrating the ice dragon into countless shards.

    However, Xuan Feixue immediately turned to run afterunching his attack. He was well aware that he was no match for Chen Fan.

    ¡°They can run away, but you alone can never escape! You never should have used my Senior Sister to threaten me. You were fated to die the moment you did so!¡±

    Chen Fan ignored the Mountain River Sect disciples below. His figure shed, drawing an arc as he caught up to Xuan Feixue and punched. The terrifying force in his punch shook heaven and earth.

    ¡°Damn it, I¡¯ll fight it out with you. Even if I die, I¡¯ll drag you down to hell with me!¡±

    Xuan Feixue¡¯s expression shifted repeatedly. Sensing the terrifying pressureing from behind, he quickly turned to dodge the attack. Simultaneously, a primeval vessel hovered above his head, his primeval force igniting.

    Aware that he couldn¡¯t escape Chen Fan''s superior speed, Xuan Feixue chose to confront him head-on.

    ¡°Drag me down to hell? With just you? Are you qualified to?¡± Chen Fan mocked coldly.

    Three heads and six arms shook the void, each strike producing explosive shockwaves that swept through the air.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    Xuan Feixue¡¯s attacks crumbled on contact with Chen Fan¡¯s strikes. A terrifying force struck him, hurling him out of the air and onto the ground.

    ¡°Don¡¯t! Don¡¯t kill me. I¡¯ll return you the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Don¡¯t kill me. Spare my life!¡± Xuan Feixue, gripped by boundless fear, knelt on the ground and offered the Ice Jade Snow Lotus with both hands.

    He finally understood the difference in strength between him and Chen Fan¡ªthey were onpletely different levels.

    ¡°If begging for mercy worked, no one would ever die.¡± Chen Fan descended, his voice iparably icy and his tone cold, filled with killing intent.

    ¡°Wipe your eyes clear in your next life. Make sure to see clearly who can be challenged and who cannot.¡±

    As Chen Fan¡¯s voice fell, a punch came crashing down.

    A terrifying destructive force shattered Xuan Feixue¡¯s primeval vessel and rushed into him, exploding.

    Chen Fan had killed a Yuanfu realm expert in an instant.

    With a wave of Chen Fan¡¯s palm, a streak of primeval qi enveloped the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, and he left.

    Mountain River Sect disciples came rushing over. They looked at Xuan Feixue¡¯s corpse and Chen Fan¡¯s departing silhouette. Every one of them kept quiet out of fear, standing there nkly.

    How terrifying!

    A first-level Yuanfu realm expert was in in mere moments.

    Was he still human?

    Was this what a Qi Grandmaster was supposed to be capable of?

 Chapter 129 - Chen Changfeng Makes His Appearance

    <h4>Chapter 129 - Chen Changfeng Makes His Appearance</h4>

    ¡°Haha, Cai Chixia, it looks like our Spring Autumn Sect will get the first ce for this trip to the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.¡±

    Zhuo Bufanughed carefreely after watching Chen Fan swiftly defeat Xuan Feixue and reim the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. He also hadn''t anticipated Chen Fan''s rapid recovery; it seemed like a miracle.

    ¡°Hmph, Zhuo Bufan, you really are generous, even taking out top-grade recovery pills.¡± Cai Chixia¡¯s expression was hideous.

    Chen Fan had imed that he only recovered so quickly because he had a top-grade recovery pill. They didn¡¯t doubt his words because nothing else could exin his two-day recovery period.

    ¡°Haha, it¡¯s just a top-grade recovery pill, nothingpared to securing the top spot in the training. Unlike your Mountain River Sect, we''re not so miserly.¡± Zhuo Bufanughed.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Cai Chixia¡¯s face turned green from the mockery. He harrumphed heavily, not saying anything more.

    ......

    <i>Tap.</i>

    Chen Fan returned to the cave.

    ¡°You¡¯re back so soon, Xiaofan?¡±

    Qin Yao was surprised to see Chen Fan holding the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in his hand. ¡°The Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Xiaofan, you really brought it back.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s only Xuan Feixue. If I hadn''t been heavily injured by Duan Jingtian, dealing with those clowns would have been as easy as turning my hand over.¡±

    Qin Yao''s lips curled into a smile. ¡°Yes, yes, yes, Xiaofan is the best.¡±

    Her beauty was astonishing when she smiled, leaving Chen Fan momentarily captivated.

    ¡°Senior Sister, you look so pretty when you smile," he blurted, causing Qin Yao''s cheeks to flush red as she red at him. Chen Fan, realizing his slip, coughed dryly, trying to conceal his embarrassment.

    ¡°Senior Sister, let¡¯s head over to the Scarlet Cliff. The training is about to end, and the exit is there. I can¡¯t find where Chu Qing is hiding, but he will definitely make his way there. We¡¯ll camp out for him!¡± Chen Fan said with a fierce look, strategically switching topics.

    ......

    ¡°Haha, I¡¯m out. I¡¯m finally out!¡± Chen Changfeng emerged from a dangerous ce,ughing maniacally.

    A cold light shed in his eyes as he narrowed them and said, ¡°Chen Fan, you little bastard, just you wait. I¡¯ve broken through to the Yuanfu realm. Killing you has be as easy as ughtering a chicken. I''ming for you¡ªtremble in fear! Despair!¡±

    With that, he vanished into the distance.

    ¡°Where are the people?¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t I see a single shadow around?¡±

    ¡°Has the training in the blessednd already ended? Impossible, the time¡¯s not up!¡±

    Chen Changfeng stood in mid-air. He didn¡¯t see a single person as he flew here, so he couldn¡¯t even find someone to ask about Chen Fan, let alone find him.

    ¡°Have they all gone to the Scarlet Cliff to wait for the training to end? If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll just head over there instead.¡±

    ......

    Scarlet Cliff:

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Changfeng descended from the sky only to find an empty Scarlet Cliff, leaving him dumbfounded.

    ¡°No one¡¯s here either! Not a single person! Did the training end early?¡±

    Panic crept into his heart. Could it be that while he was trapped in that dangerous ce, he failed to reach Scarlet Cliff in time, and the others assumed the worst, leaving without him?

    ¡°Impossible! If the training ended early, the Sect Master would have transmitted his voice to let us know. I heard no such messages!¡±

    Chen Changfeng shook his head in denial.

    ¡°But... where did everyone go? Did they all go to the ck Sea Demon Cave?¡±

    Various thoughts surfaced in Chen Changfeng¡¯s mind.

    He had been spreading his senses since he left that dangerous ce to find others; until now, he hadn¡¯t found a single other disciple. So, he assumed everyone had gone to the Scarlet Cliff in advance to wait for the exit tunnel to open, but he didn¡¯t find anyone there either.

    Was he the only person in the blessednd?

    Abandoned?!

    ¡°Should I go look around the ck Sea Demon Cave?¡± Chen Changfeng stood up, preparing to head toward the cave.

    He was truly panicking inside.

    Could it be that the training did end early, and Zhuo Bufan¡¯s voice couldn¡¯t enter the dangerous ce for some reason?

    He was about to go to the ck Sea Demon Cave to confirm the situation when he heard a faint sound ring out in the distance.

    ¡°Hmm? Someone¡¯sing!¡±

    Chen Changfeng saw several tiny ck dots approaching his location. He finally let out a breath of relief.

    Fortunately, the training hadn¡¯t ended early.

    And most of all, he hadn¡¯t been abandoned!

    Still, why didn¡¯t hee across anyone all this time?

    When those ck dots came closer, Chen Changfeng realized they were Mu Chen, Lu Yun, and Wei Rufeng.

    ¡°Chen Changfeng!¡±

    The trio was surprised when they saw him at the Scarlet Cliff.

    They hadn''t caught sight of him for over a dozen days, nor had any news reached them. The prevailing assumption was that he had died at the hands of some demon beast.

    ¡°You¡¯re alive!¡± The trio cried in surprise.

    Chen Changfeng furrowed his eyebrows.

    <i>Alive? You were the dead ones until a second ago!</i>

    <i>Me, die? Your whole family died!</i>

    He released a strand of his aura, shocking the trio even more. ¡°Yuanfu... you broke through to the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    Chen Changfeng raised his chin slightly and casually pointed with a finger. A streak of primeval force shot out, sting arge stone into smithereens. He said proudly, ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯ve broken through to the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others felt iparably envious of him.

    They didn¡¯t know where Chen Changfeng had gone or what he had encountered. All they knew was that he disappeared for a dozen days and reappeared as a Yuanfu realm expert.

    Chen Changfeng asked coldly, ¡°Let me ask you. Where are the others? I came all this way and didn''t see a soul. Where did everyone go? Did Wang Fuchen take the Ice Jade Snow Lotus? Is Zhong Li in the Yuanfu realm? Where is that little bastard Chen Fan?¡±

    Chen Changfeng asked many questions in one go, leaving the trio dumbfounded.

    Chen Changfeng looked at the dazed trio, furrowing his eyebrows. He shouted impatiently, ¡°What are you doing standing there nkly? Answer me!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others snapped out of their daze, hastily recounting the events of the past dozen days.

    <i>Chen Fan consumed a Blood Ignition Pill, jumped off the Scarlet Cliff, survived the disaster, and obtained blessings instead, bing a Qi Grandmaster.</i>

    <i>Three dayster, Chen Fan went to the ck Sea Demon Cave, killed Wang Fuchen, and seized the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. He then ran into Zhong Li¡¯s group and suppressed them, provoking Duan Jingtian to move in anger. He attacked through space, heavily injuring Chen Fan.</i>

    <i>Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing then captured Qin Yao, forcing Chen Fan to surrender the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, ending the trip with Mountain River Sect in first ce, Burning Incense Valley in second, and Spring Autumn Sect in third. </i>

    <i>Chen Fan''s whereabouts are currently unknown.</i>

    These revtions hit Chen Changfeng like thunder, leaving him frozen in ce with a single thought echoing in his mind: <i>What did I miss?</i>

 Chapter 130 - Gathered at Scarlet Cliff

    <h4>Chapter 130 - Gathered at Scarlet Cliff</h4>

    ¡°Is everything you told the truth? You¡¯re not lying to me, are you?¡±

    Chen Changfeng looked at the trio with a dumbfounded expression.

    Mu Chen answered, ¡°Of course.¡±

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s heart shook again.

    He had spent merely ten days in that dangerous ce, but it seemed like an epic had been enacted outside.

    Moreover, that little bastard, Chen Fan, survived a disaster and benefited from it, bing a Qi Grandmaster. If it were just that, he could have epted it somehow, but Chen Fan could actually kill Yuanfu realm experts with mere Qi Grandmaster cultivation.

    How could Chen Changfeng ept or even believe that?

    After bing a Yuanfu realm expert, he had realized the might of this realm. Even if ten Qi Grandmasters surrounded him, he could easily kill them all.

    However, Chen Fan had defied allmon sense by killing Yuanfu realm experts as a Qi Grandmaster.

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s heart squeezed violently.

    To think he was about to find trouble with Chen Fan, thinking he could kill him as easily as killing a chicken.

    Who was the chicken here?

    ¡°But...¡±

    Despite being shaken by the news of Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength, a cold light shed in Chen Changfeng¡¯s eyes. He said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re sure Chen Fan is heavily injured?¡±

    Mu Chen said, ¡°We¡¯re not sure of the specifics; these are reports we gathered from elsewhere. Allegedly, a fight urred between Chen Fan and Wang Fuchen. And although he defeated Wang Fuchen, he sustained injuries in the process.

    ¡°Afterwards, he ran into Zhong Li at the edge of the desert and received an attack through space from Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. Although he managed to negate the attack, he suffered heavy injuries in doing so. Then, he was threatened by Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing, further receiving an attack from both of them.¡±

    ¡°In any case, he received blow after blow, exacerbating his injuries. He can¡¯t be fine even if he is made of steel.¡±

    ¡°Is that so...¡± Chen Changfeng nodded, realizing the severity of Chen Fan''s injuries.

    Recovering in three days seemed imusible, offering Chen Changfeng a potential advantage. With this in mind, he coldly smiled and took a seat, patiently waiting.

    ......

    The trio observed Chen Changfeng''s move and diverted their attention, engaging in a hushed discussion.

    ¡°I wonder what Chen Fan¡¯s situation is like now?¡±

    ¡°He must not be doing well! He suffered severe injuries from Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s attack, followed by direct attacks from Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing. He should thank the heavens that he''s still alive and should remain in hiding to recuperate.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s such a pity. If Senior Brother Duan Jingtian hadn''t intervened, Chen Fan wouldn''t have been ambushed by Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing and lost the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Our sect could have had the first ce.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s arrival on Dragon Mountain Peak itself is too unexpected if you ask me. Say, do you think Senior Brother Duan Jingtian would make a move against Chen Fan after we leave the blessednd?¡±

    ¡°I think so, yes... Chen Fan crippled Zhong Li and the others¡¯ cultivations. This is a provocation against Heaven¡¯s Alliance, which means it¡¯s a provocation against Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. There¡¯s no way this matter will end just like that.¡±

    ¡°Eh, it seems Chen Fan is dead for sure, then. What a pity, he¡¯s such a monstrous genius.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    <i>Murmur.</i>

    A sudden uproar caught the group''s attention four hourster, prompting them to gaze toward the distance.

    ¡°Someone ising!¡±

    ¡°That is... Someone is riding the wind¡ªa Yuanfu realm expert¡¯s technique. I wonder if it¡¯s Xuan Feixue or Chu Qing," Mu Chen''s group of three remarked, squinting as they observed a distant ck dot flying toward them.

    ¡°We¡¯re here, Xiaofan. Put me down,¡± Qin Yao, in Chen Fan''s arms, requested with flushed cheeks.

    "Alright." Chen Fan descended rapidly and gently ced Qin Yao on the ground.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others finally identified the neer, their mouths agape in disbelief. What astonished them further was the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in Chen Fan''s hand.

    ¡°You¡¯re all here.¡± Chen Fan greeted the trio with a smile, as they had no animosity. His gaze then shifted to Chen Changfeng, who stood nearby, eliciting a momentary surprise.

    Like many others, he hadn¡¯t seen Chen Changfeng since they entered the blessednd. No one knew where he had been.

    Now, finally encountering him, Chen Fan realized that Chen Changfeng had be a Yuanfu realm expert, suggesting several fortuitous encounters on his part.

    Chen Changfeng naturally saw Chen Fan, too. He realized Chen Fan didn¡¯t appear injured and quickly concealed the cold killing intent in his eyes.

    The trio approached Chen Fan and looked up and down at him curiously. ¡°Chen Fan, didn¡¯t Xuan Feixue and Chu Qing worsen your injuries? Why are you... and the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Didn¡¯t Xuan Feixue take it away?¡±

    They had numerous questions and were uncertain about where to start.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I brought a top-grade recovery pill, so my injuries have fully healed. As for Xuan Feixue, he''s no more; I killed him, and the Ice Jade Snow Lotus is back where it belongs.¡±

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Mu Chen and the others immediately sucked in a breath of cold air.

    He spoke of killing a Yuanfu realm expert so casually, as if it were as simple as crushing an ant.

    ¡°You... are really amazing," Mu Chen and the others managed to utter after a while.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze shifted toward Chen Changfeng and said with a sly smile, ¡°Yo, Chen Changfeng, you¡¯ve finally appeared. How unexpected. It seems you''ve had a pleasant time in the blessednd, achieving a breakthrough. I am jealous.¡±

    ¡°Hmph, my affairs are none of your concern, Chen Fan," Chen Changfeng retorted coldly.

    ¡°Of course, it doesn¡¯t have anything to do with me. I was only envious of your ¡®good luck,¡¯¡± Chen Fan said with a cold smile.

    Chen Changfeng red at Chen Fan coldly before turning his head away, ignoring him. He had intended to confront and possibly kill Chen Fan if his injuries hadn¡¯t healed. However, the Chen Fan before him looked far from injured.

    He wasn''t foolish; provoking Chen Fan now would be suicidal. After all, Chen Fan had even killed Wang Fuchen.

    Despite this, Chen Changfeng felt resentment. Who could have anticipated that Chen Fan carried a top-grade recovery pill?

    <i>That damned little bastard! </i>Chen Changfeng cursed in his heart.

    Another group soon came to Scarlet Cliff. It was the Mountain River Sect disciples.

    When these people saw Chen Fan, their reactions resembled rats encountering a cat, maintaining a safe distance and avoiding direct confrontation.

    Their Senior Brother, a Yuanfu realm expert, Xuan Feixue, was killed in front of their eyes by Chen Fan with ease.

    That scene was etched in their minds. To them, Chen Fan was the devil.

    Chen Fan ignored them, as indiscriminate killing wasn''t his style.

    Another two hourster, Chu Qing and seven Burning Incense Valley disciples arrived at Scarlet Cliff.

    He froze when he saw Chen Fan at the top of Scarlet Cliff.

    The sight of the Ice Jade Snow Lotus in Chen Fan''s possession and the absence of Xuan Feixue among the Mountain River Sect''s group sent shockwaves through Chu Qing.

    There was no denying the situation¡ªXuan Feixue was dead, and the Ice Jade Snow Lotus was evidence of Chen Fan''s involvement. Moreover, Chen Fan''s injuries had miraculously healed.

    Chu Qing wanted to turn around and run almost instantly.

    ¡°If you run, I¡¯ll kill everyone from Burning Incense Valley!¡±

    Instantly, Chu Qing became rigid, realizing escape was not an option.

 Chapter 131 - One Punch!

    <h4>Chapter 131 - One Punch!</h4>

    Chen Fan''s words sent a sudden chill through Chu Qing. If he tried to escape, Chen Fan would unleash havoc on everyone from the Burning Incense Valley.

    He didn¡¯t doubt Chen Fan¡¯s words for a second, as thetter had the strength to turn his words into reality.

    The Burning Incense Valley disciples also noticed Chen Fan. A youth with a sharp chin stepped forward and bellowed, ¡°Brat, you must be tired of living. Don¡¯t you know who you¡¯re talking to?!¡±

    ¡°You fool," Chen Fan coldly retorted. He punched, and his qi surged like a flood, racing toward the sharp-chinned youth, resembling a ferocious beast.

    The sharp-chinned youth was a Qi Grandmaster, but his expression changed dramatically as he sensed the formidable force behind Chen Fan''s punch. In shock, he eximed, ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    Wasn¡¯t Chen Fan supposedly heavily injured? Didn¡¯t he need at least ten days of rest just to get back on his feet?

    Yet, the qi behind his punch reached the youth swiftly, almost a thousand paces away, and its power was suffocating.

    The sharp-chinned youth revolved his cultivation technique. His primeval qi went berserk, forming a colossal whirlpool that seemed capable of engulfing heaven and earth.

    The Whirlpool Cultivation Technique¡ªhis ultimate technique¡ªgave him incredibly tough defense.

    When he executed it, others¡¯ attacks would be pulled into the whirlpool, dissipating into nothingness.

    Chen Fan¡¯s punch came sting over, rushing into that whirlpool and instantly destroying it.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The terrifying punch shattered the sharp-chinned youth¡¯s protective primeval qi and the sound of bones cracking filled the air as he flew backward.

    Copsing to his knees, he spat outrge mouthfuls of blood, leaving the surroundings in a deathly silence.

    Chen Fan slowly walked over and said carelessly, ¡°Consider this a lesson. Learn who you can or cannot challenge.¡±

    Chu Qing''s expression darkened as Chen Fan walked over. Looking up, he said bitterly, ¡°This matter doesn¡¯t involve them. If you have an issue,e at me. Don¡¯t drag the innocent into it.¡±

    ¡°Drag innocents?¡±

    Chen Fanughed disdainfully and said, ¡°If I intended to do that, he''d be dead already! And does it truly not concern them?¡±

    Hisplexion pale, Chu Qing gritted his teeth and asked, ¡°Did you kill Xuan Feixue?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    Chu Qing trembled slightly, hisplexion turning ashen.

    The Burning Incense Valley disciples also went pale with fright and shock.

    Chen Fan stared at Chu Qing and said eerily, ¡°Since you left no primeval force in Senior Sister, you can consider yourself lucky. I''ll offer you a chance. Take a punch from me. If you survive, I won''t trouble you again.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Chu Qing looked at Chen Fan in surprise.

    Chen Fan nodded, ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°Fine.¡± Chu Qing agreed.

    Everyone, including Chen Changfeng, looked over.

    Having only heard of Chen Fan''s terrifying strength from Mu Chen and others, Chen Changfeng now had the opportunity to witness it firsthand.

    Chu Qing steeled himself for the impact, fully aware of Chen Fan¡¯s fearsome power.

    The fact that Chen Fan had survived Duan Jingtian''s attack and subsequently endured blows from both Chu Qing and Xuan Feixue attested to the truly formidable nature of his power.

    Though it was just a single strike, Chu Qing approached it seriously, leaving no room for carelessness.

    Chen Fan looked at Chu Qing; suddenly, the sound of tendons and bones rumbling like thunder rang out.

    Simultaneously, a powerful aura emanated from Chen Fan, making the air explode with a crackling noise.

    ¡°So strong!¡±

    The nearby crowd sensed Chen Fan¡¯s aura, and their pupils shrunk violently, overwhelmed with shock in their hearts.

    The aura engulfed Chu Qing; he felt like a flood was trying to drown him.

    ¡°Golden Body!¡± Chu Qing shouted, and a golden primeval vessel appeared above him.

    His entire body took on a golden hue, resembling an unyielding golden arhat emitting an aura of invincibility. [1]

    He practiced a profound tier cultivation technique¡ªthe Golden Body Cultivation Technique. Though a cultivation technique, it could give the user pseudo-body cultivation technique powers. His cultivated primeval qi was firm and manifested a resilient golden body, strengthening his flesh.

    Chu Qing pushed his defenses to the extreme, unleashing his cultivation to its limit. Protective primeval force covered him, emitting resonating ngs.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes suddenly shed brightly.

    <i>Boom Thump!</i>

    He unleashed a punch, and the force behind it was like an ancient dragon-elephant trampling the space, hissing and roaring.

    The surrounding crowd felt their souls tremble as if on the verge of bursting.

    Chu Qing reacted swiftly, waving his hands to create a circle before him. His primeval force condensed into a golden disk, with the image of a golden arhat seated in the lotus position at its center.

    As Chen Fan''s punch neared, the golden arhat opened its eyes, and the spinning disk emitted streaks of golden light apanied by melodic Sanskrit chants.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Despite the spectacle, the golden disk shattered the second the punch made contact, and the golden arhat within disintegrated along with the chants.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Chen Fan''s dragon-like fist, unstoppable in momentum, continued its trajectory, striking Chu Qing with tremendous force.

    The golden primeval vessel above Chu Qing erupted at once. His primeval force burned inside it, elevating his golden physique to another level. The brilliance of the golden light intensified as if he were cast in solid gold.

    Chu Qing¡¯s protective primeval force soon burst as an iparably terrifying force assailed him. The mournful cries of his golden physique echoed, followed by the ominous crackling sounds.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Chu Qing was pushed back, his heels digging into the ground. The golden primeval vessel above him dimmed significantly.

    ¡°Ugh.¡±

    Chu Qing was pushed about a hundred meters back, half kneeling on the ground. His golden physique had exploded; his head hung low, vomitingrge mouthfuls of blood.

    Chen Fan retracted his fist. He looked at Chu Qing indifferently and said, ¡°Not bad. To survive a punch from me, you¡¯re a little better than Xuan Feixue.¡±

    Chu Qing lifted his gaze to meet Chen Fan''s silently, slowly rising with difficulty.

    ¡°How are you feeling, Senior Brother?¡±

    The Burning Incense Valley disciples hurriedly ran toward him, supporting his unsteady form. One of them promptly stuffed spiritual recovery pills into Chu Qing''s mouth.

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s heart shook as he watched this scene unfold from the side.

    <i>Terrifying.</i>

    <i>Chen Fan¡¯s strength is indeed terrifying. This strength isn¡¯t something a martial artist below the Yuanfu realm can have.</i>

    <i>However, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation is indeed in the Qi Grandmaster realm. He definitely isn¡¯t in the Yuanfu realm.</i>

    ¡°His primeval qi is profound, and his physique is astonishingly robust. Seventy percent of the force in that punch came from his terrifying physique...¡±

    Chen Changfeng¡¯s eyes shone, calcting in his heart. What would the results be if he were to receive that blow? No matter how he thought about it, he realized he wouldn¡¯t fare any better than Chu Qing.

    This realization cemented a fact in his mind: Chen Fan could kill first-level Yuanfu realm experts.

    As this transpired, unexpected changes unfolded in the skies above Scarlet Cliff. The space began to twist like flowing water, generating ripples.

    Simultaneously, Zhuo Bufan''s authoritative voice resonated on the cliff. ¡°Listen to mymand, everyone. The training at Dragon Mountain Blessed Land hase to an end. I will now be guiding you out of the blessednd. Do not resist.¡±

    The crowd subsequently felt a strong tugging force from the twisted space. They soon turned blurry before disappearing from sight.

    1. In Buddhism, an arhat or arahant is one who has gained insight into the true nature of existence and has achieved Nirvana and liberated from the endless cycle of rebirth. The understanding of the concept has changed over the centuries, and varies between different schools of Buddhism and different regions. ?

 Chapter 132 - Duan Jingtian Makes Things Difficult

    <h4>Chapter 132 - Duan Jingtian Makes Things Difficult</h4>

    Chen Fan experienced a sudden bout of dizziness while drifting in the void. Upon regaining awareness, he found himself on solid ground, realizing he had exited Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    Suddenly!

    ¡°Kneel!¡±

    Before Chen Fan had the time to look at his surroundings, amanding voice thundered in his ears,pelling him to kneel. The stern and coldmand echoed like thunder, resonating in his eardrums and reverberating through his brain.

    Instantly, an overwhelming force pressed down on him as if the might of heaven itself waspelling him to kneel. Despite his efforts to resist, he fell to his knees heavily, cracking the tform beneath.

    Struggling to stand against the force, Chen Fan tried to utilize his cultivation, only to find it futile.

    The primeval qi around him exploded, and he felt stripped of his cultivation, unable to move.

    He could only stay like this¡ªkneeling in a state of humiliation.

    ¡°Ahhhh!¡±

    Chen Fan roared furiously in indignation.

    It dawned on him that Duan Jingtian had made his move when he left Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, unleashing his formidable aura and forcing him to kneel.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless even if you scream, you ant!¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s disdainful voice rang out.

    Chen Fan gritted his teeth tightly, nearly shattering his mrs.

    He was furious!

    He felt indignant!

    A surge of qi erupted from Chen Fan''s chest, prompting Duan Jingtian to slightly ease the pressure, allowing him to lift his head.

    All eyes turned toward them.

    ¡°This...¡±

    Everyone¡¯s expressions turned into one of shock.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡± Qin Yao eximed, snapping back to reality in astonishment.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, what are you doing!?¡± Qin Changkong stepped forward, positioning himself between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian, his expression furious. His Yuanfu realm aura erupted, trying to shake Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura.

    Duan Jingtian nced at Qin Changkong coldly and said indifferently, ¡°Yuanfu realm ant, you¡¯re not qualified to speak with me.¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s gaze sharpened, focusing on Qin Changkong. A mere nce from him sent Qin Changkong reeling backward, blood spewing from his mouth.

    The sheer power of Duan Jingtian''s gaze had injured and flung a Yuanfu realm expert!

    ¡°Father!¡± Qin Yao cried out, rushing to Qin Changkong''s aid as he struggled to his feet.

    ¡°You bastard!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes widened with rage when he saw this scene, his eyes locked onto Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°p his mouth!¡±

    Duan Jingtian was like a deity, looking down from high above at Chen Fan. A loud smack rang out with hismand, and Chen Fan¡¯s cheek swelled up.

    ¡°Bastard!¡±

    Chen Fan''s gaze remained fixed on Duan Jingtian, burning with defiance.

    Duan Jingtian furrowed his eyebrow and said coldly, ¡°Your gaze annoys me. Dig them out.¡±

    Sharp light gathered in his eyes, and Chen Fan felt a stabbing pain as if sharp swords were trying to gouge out his eyeballs.

    Finally, Zhuo Bufan intervened and dered, "Enough, Duan Jingtian!"

    He materialized in front of Chen Fan, his gaze unwavering as he emitted a powerful aura that countered Duan Jingtian''s oppressive energy.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to stand in my way, Zhuo Bufan?¡± Duan Jingtian narrowed his eyes, exuding a dangerous light.

    Zhuo Bufan''s eyebrows furrowed tightly; he didn''t want to provoke Duan Jingtian, but the situation demanded his intervention.

    What would the other three sects think?

    What would the Spring Autumn Sect disciples think?

    Chen Fan obtained the Ice Jade Snow Lotus and helped the Spring Autumn Sect get first ce for the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training, achieving great merit for the sect.

    However, as soon as he left the blessednd, Duan Jingtian was trying to kill him. How would their sect¡¯s disciples feel if news of this matter spread?

    Duan Jingtian took a step forward.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh!</i>

    The mournful sound of wind echoed across Dragon Mountain Peak, enveloping the area in an iparable chill that sent shivers down everyone''s spine.

    Suddenly, heavy snow fell from the skies, covering heaven and earth. The surrounding thousand milespletely transformed, bathing in a pristine white hue.

    As the snow fell, the trees, flowers, grass, and rocks immediately turned into ice, frozen solid.

    Even the entire Dragon Mountain Peak had turned into a snowy mountain.

    Leng Feng and the others¡¯ expressions changed drastically.

    The Qigong realm disciples shivered from this chilling intent, theirplexions paling as they teetered on the edge of bing ice sculptures.

    The elders had no choice but to activate their cultivation, enveloping their respective sect''s disciples to ward off the biting cold.

    ¡°Heavenly Cold Winter God Force!¡±

    Zhuo Bufan was astonished. ¡°The Sect Leader passed down this cultivation technique to you? It is the highest secret of sessive generations of Sect Leaders. Only those who have taken over the position of Sect Leader will be taught this technique. Why did he teach it to you?¡±

    Duan Jingtian said proudly, ¡°Because I am destined to be the next Sect Leader of the Spring Autumn Sect. Zhuo Bufan, obstructing me now is tantamount to obstructing the sect''s future. Consider the consequences carefully!¡±

    The elders of the three other great sects were also appalled.

    They had naturally heard of Heavenly Cold Winter God Force¡ªan earth tier cultivation technique and the emblem of the Spring Autumn Sect''s Sect Leader.

    Traditionally, it was only passed down to the new Sect Leader, but Duan Jingtian, not yet having assumed the position, was already cultivating it¡ªa clear indication of his impending leadership.

    ¡°Zhuo Bufan, although you hold the esteemed position of the Outer Sect Master, I am the inner sect¡¯s number one holy disciple, personally taught by the Sect Leader and the next Sect Leader of the Spring Autumn Sect. I¡¯m abiding by the sect¡¯s rules and punishing the sinful beast who killed his fellow disciples. Are you certain you wish to oppose me?¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s hands were folded behind his back, exuding an air of superiority that dismissed even Zhuo Bufan, the Outer Sect Master.

    Zhuo Bufan was stuck between a rock and a hard ce.

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly erupted into maniacalughter. ¡°Abiding by the sect¡¯s rules? Good one! The winner is king, and the loser is a thief. If you want to take my life, you should be prepared to risk your own!¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian!¡± Chen Fan shouted angrily, firmly determined, ¡°You proim yourself as the future Sect Leader of the Spring Autumn Sect, yet your words are nonsense. Zhong Li and his associates are members of Heaven''s Alliance, yourckeys and subordinates. I merely dealt with those who serve you and wounded your pride, and now you speak of righteousness. Have you no shame?

    ¡°Moreover, my guilt or innocence is not for you to decide! So what if you¡¯re the number one holy disciple of the inner sect? So what if the Sect Leader teaches you personally? Is cultivating the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force really that big of a deal?

    ¡°Your status remains that of a disciple until you assume the role of Sect Leader. By what authority do you represent the sect in punishing me?!¡±

    Chen Fan was unyielding and determined, his voice resounding through heaven and earth, shaking the people¡¯s hearts.

 Chapter 133 - Dignity

    <h4>Chapter 133 - Dignity</h4>

    ¡°How ridiculous, you¡¯re just an ant!¡±

    Chen Fan''s words were met with only a disdainfulugh from Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°If I say you¡¯re guilty, then you are guilty," he stated arrogantly, his expression unchanged.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura became even more imposing and overbearing, making the Yuanfu realm elders nearby feel a strong sense of oppression.

    ¡°Move, retreat further away!¡± urged Leng Feng and others loudly.

    Duan Jingtian''s oppressive aura rendered even the Yuanfu realm elders powerless, forcing them to tremble and withdraw.

    With a casual sweep of their sleeves, the elders guided their disciples to another mountain peak, a strategic retreat to escape Duan Jingtian''s formidable pressure.

    The outer sect elders of the Spring Autumn Sect also whisked away Mu Chen and the others, their stern gazes fixed on the tform of Dragon Mountain Peak.

    ¡°Scary. It''s truly terrifying!"

    ¡°Exactly how strong is Duan Jingtian? Is he a step away from the Divine Nascent realm?¡±

    ¡°His cultivation is at least at the sixth or seventh level of the Core Formation realm!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The elders from the other three great sects huddled in hushed discussion, their voices tinged with fear.

    Ignoring those conversations, Duan Jingtian took a confident step forward, causing a shift in the atmosphere. The sky darkened as heavy snowkes, carried by the forceful wind, began to descend.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh...</i>

    ¡°Youughable, sinful beast. If I, Duan Jingtian, wish to kill you, who would dare object? My words carry the authority of heaven!¡± Duan Jingtian''s tone resonated with immense force, disying tyrannical dominance over everything.

    His words were the rules¡ªthe very might of heaven.

    If he, Duan Jingtian, wished to kill someone, who would dare object?

    ¡°Your words are the rules? The might of heaven?¡±

    Chen Fan, however, reacted with disdain and roared in a mad frenzy, ¡°Regardless of your strength, you''re merely a Spring Autumn Sect disciple. If your words are the rules, what are these rules?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re nothing but an ant. How dare you question my words! Die!¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s cold words marked the beginning of his decisive action. With a forceful palm strike, he unleashed a torrent that seemed to reverse winds and clouds, making mountain rivers flow in the opposite direction.

    Chen Fan felt like his soul would shatter and dissipate under this palm. The terrifying aura had engulfed him, rendering him utterly powerless.

    As Chen Fan faced imminent death at the hands of Duan Jingtian, Zhuo Bufan intervened again.

    He thrust his palm, and the space quaked, his strength colliding with Duan Jingtian''s impending strike.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The mountains quivered, and gusts of wind wreaked havoc, extending several miles.

    A glint of murderous intent emanated from Duan Jingtian''s eyes as he uttered coldly, ¡°Zhuo Bufan, this is the second time you''ve obstructed me. Are you truly willing to make an enemy of me, Duan Jingtian, for the sake of an insignificant ant? Do you believe Ick the courage to act against you? Are you prepared to experience the might of the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force?¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura shot up to the skies, shocking heaven and earth.

    Zhuo Bufan''s heart quivered, faltering in the face of Duan Jingtian''s overwhelming aura.

    ¡°Move out of the way,¡± Duan Jingtian said slowly.

    As his voice fell, one of Zhuo Bufan¡¯s legs shifted slightly.

    Duan Jingtian''s talent was astonishing, cing him among the top echelons, even if not yet at the level of overlooking the entire Great Chu Empire.

    Moreover, the Sect Leader had personally chosen him as his sessor. He had even imparted the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force to Duan Jingtian before he had even assumed the sect leader position. He would take control from the current Sect Leader in a matter of years.

    Considering all this, was it truly worth antagonizing Duan Jingtian for Chen Fan?

    Chen Fan had naturally noticed this subtle scene, a sense of sorrow enveloping him. It was the sorrow of the weak.

    Duan Jingtian had targeted him, threatening to end his life. Why? Because Chen Fan had challenged the Heaven''s Alliance''s authority by killing He Junyang and incapacitating Zhong Li''s group in the blessednd.

    Duan Jingtian noticed Zhuo Bufan''s foot movement, a faint smile ying on his lips.

    This was Duan Jingtian¡¯s prestige!

    So what if he was the Outer Sect Master?

    In front of him, Zhuo Bufan had to submit and move out of the way all the same.

    ¡°Now, who can possibly save you?¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s indifferent gaze shifted onto Chen Fan.

    The oppressive force, akin to the might of heaven, enveloped him again, rendering Chen Fan immobile as if bound by invisible shackles.

    ¡°Ah! Ah! Ah!¡±

    Despite Chen Fan''s vehement attempts to move and break free, his furious roars echoed in vain.

    ¡°Even an ant wants to shake a tree?¡± Duan Jingtianughed coldly and pped with the back of his hand without looking.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Instead, an unseen force ruptured the qi currents, as if the pir supporting the sky had crumbled, disintegrating the primeval qi within Chen Fan. Now, he couldn¡¯t even voice his indignation.

    Helplessly pressed to the ground, countless bones broken, Chen Fan prostrated. A surge of boundless hatred welled up within him.

    Hatred!

    Boundless hatred rose in Chen Fan¡¯s heart.

    He had believed he had reimed his lost dignity, only for it to be mercilessly stripped away again by Duan Jingtian''s overwhelming strength.

    <i>Ah, I want to be an unrivaled expert. I want to instigate change, justice, and retribution in this world... But now, I can¡¯t even protect my own dignity. What good are these aspirations now?</i>

    For the first time, Chen Fan realized just how weak he was. He desperately needed strength!

    <i>No matter what, I need powerful strength!</i>

    <i>Only with strength can I have my dignity!</i>

    <i>And only with dignity can I talk about ideals!</i>

    <i>I need strength...!</i>

    Chen Fan roared in his heart and struggled as hard as he could, but he was utterly powerless.

    Before Duan Jingtian, he was so weak that resistance seemed futile, rendering him no more than an ant, a mere speck of dust.

    Zhuo Bufan''s gaze reflected his internal conflict. Eventually, he took a deep breath and said, ¡°Duan Jingtian, although Chen Fan vited the rules and killed a fellow disciple, he did achieve great merit in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. Can you spare his life?¡±

    Although he gave in, he wanted to fight for Chen Fan onest time.

    Even if Duan Jingtian rejected his plea, he would have no regret in his heart. He had done all he could.

    ¡°Oh, since Sect Master Zhuo is pleading for him, fine. I¡¯ll cripple his cultivation and spare his worthless life as a warning to others!¡± Duan Jingtian said, raising his eyebrow.

    Zhuo Bufan nodded and said, ¡°Much thanks.¡±

    This was the best result he could fight for Chen Fan.

    Duan Jingtian was too forceful. Who knew if his ascent to Spring Autumn Sect''s sect leader position would be a blessing or a curse?

    ¡°Sinful bastard, just be an honestmoner in the future.¡±

    Duan Jingtian didn¡¯t say anything more. He raised his palm, about to destroy Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation.

    ¡°Hold it right there!¡±

    However, someone interrupted suddenly. A voice echoed, and a figure materialized in front of Chen Fan¡ªnone other than the Pavilion Guard Elder from the outer sect''s Martial Arts Pavilion.

 Chapter 134 - Sect Leaderâ€™s Will

    <h4>Chapter 134 - Sect Leader¡¯s Will</h4>

    The arrival of the Pavilion Guard Elder caused a shift in the situation.

    ¡°Wei Buyu.¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s eyes darkened when he saw the Pavilion Guard Elder, and he asked coldly, ¡°What is the meaning of this? Are you going to stand in my way too?¡±

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°Chen Fan is my personal disciple. Duan Jingtian, did you seek my approval before threatening my disciple?¡±

    Zhuo Bufan was taken aback by Wei Buyu''s revtion, staring at Chen Fan in disbelief. He hadn''t anticipated Chen Fan being Wei Buyu''s personal disciple. [1]

    He knew Wei Buyu wasn¡¯t just a simple Pavilion Guard Elder. Even he, the Outer Sect Master, wasn¡¯t qualified to put on airs before him.

    ¡°He¡¯s your personal disciple?¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression darkened further. He retorted sharply, ¡°Wei Buyu, even if he is your personal disciple, can he kill my Heaven¡¯s Alliance members?¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, do you think your alliance members can kill my, Wei Buyu¡¯s, disciple?¡±

    Wei Buyu maintained a firm stance. ¡°Do you think this old man has no idea what happened inside the blessednd? Your members initiated the conflict, and Chen Fan''s actions were merely a just response.

    ¡°And you, you struck without permission. My restraint in not stopping you then is already a show of generosity. You failed to kill him with your attack and got annoyed, threatening to kill Chen Fan when he came out. Do you think I, Wei Buyu, am a pushover?¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s eyes narrowed into slits as he uttered icily, ¡°So, if I understand correctly, you expect to resolve this matter with just one sentence after this bastard killed a member of my Heaven''s Alliance?¡±

    Despite facing Wei Buyu, Duan Jingtian remained unyielding, pressing on forcefully.

    From Duan Jingtian¡¯s perspective, Chen Fan was at fault for killing his alliance member. So what if Zhong Li¡¯s group struck first? Chen Fan should have stood there and allowed them to kill him.

    Any defiance was seen as a challenge to the prestige of Heaven''s Alliance and, by extension, his own prestige.

    Was his prestige something a mere outer sect disciple could challenge?

    ¡°Then what do you want, Duan Jingtian?¡± Wei Buyu inquired in a low voice, revealing a hint of apprehension.

    However, he couldn''t allow Duan Jingtian to ruin Chen Fan since he had chosen Chen Fan.

    Duan Jingtian stepped forward, his aura imposing as he said indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s quite simple. Ask him to cripple his cultivation!¡±

    This concession was Duan Jingtian''s greatestpromise, an effort to save face for Wei Buyu.

    After all, Wei Buyu and Zhuo Bufan were different. If Wei Buyu hadn¡¯t appeared just then, he would have wasted Chen Fan himself.

    ¡°Absolutely not! Duan Jingtian, your alliance members started this matter. If you refuse to let it go, then let us settle it inbat! I''m curious to witness your mastery of the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force!¡±

    A scorching hot aura emanated from Wei Buyu, shing with Duan Jingtian''s icy intent, distorting and twisting the space.

    ¡°Wei Buyu, you¡¯re determined to protect him and make me your enemy?¡± Duan Jingtian''s narrowed eyes gleamed with a sharp light, his tone growing increasingly cold.

    Wei Buyu chuckled coldly and said, ¡°Duan Jingtian, your status may scare others, but it''s nothing in my presence!

    ¡°Chen Fan was right about one thing: You''re merely a disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect right now. Repeat those words after you''ve truly assumed the role of sect leader!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Wei Buyu¡¯s words made Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura explode. The skies and earth changed colors, and the howls of the winds grew even fiercer.

    ¡°Hehe, Wei Buyu, I¡¯ve changed my mind. No one will be able to protect this sinful bastard, no matter whoes here today! Didn¡¯t you want to witness my mastery of the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force? Very well, I shall grant your wish! Today, I¡¯ll kill this bastard right in front of you. Let''s see if you can stop me!¡±

    Duan Jingtian was incensed, his berserk aura spreading. Blizzard descended from the skies, icy killing intent sweeping the entire mountain peak.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A halberd materialized in his hand, aimed directly at Wei Buyu.

    Zhuo Bufan felt a chill run down his spine. Never did he expect the situation to escte to this point¡ªDuan Jingtian challenging Wei Buyu to a fight.

    Wei Buyu''s expression changed slightly, yet the fury within him surged. The scorching waves of qi intensified, resembling a zing furnace roaring within.

    The atmosphere in this space became extremely tense all of a sudden.

    The faces of the observers far away on another mountain peak changed drastically, their hearts twitching in shock.

    In this critical moment, a formidable will descended from the sky. ¡°Stop it, Jingtian.¡±

    This stream of will was majestic yet ethereal, fluctuating with the heaven and earth.

    The instant it appeared, it gave others the feeling that it was the incarnation of the heavens, making others want to fall to their knees.

    The will of the Spring Autumn Sect''s highest leader had descended.

    He was in the Divine Nascent realm, wielding formidable strength capable of reshaping the rivers and seas with a mere gesture.

    ¡°Sect Leader, what¡¯s the matter? Why did you intervene?¡± inquired Duan Jingtian, his eyes flickering.

    ¡°The sect has its rules. Zhong Li¡¯s group vited the rules first, and you¡¯ve also struck once. This matter ends here. With your current cultivation, why must you oppress others?¡±

    The voice, gentle yetmanding, responded, ¡°You will be advancing to the Divine Nascent realm soon. Upon reaching that stage, I will relinquish the position of sect leader to you.¡±

    "As the leader, your role is to embrace and treat everyone justly. Presently, I find myself a little disheartened by your actions.¡±

    ¡°What? This... the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s sect leader actually gave his word in front of everyone to hand his position over to Duan Jingtian once he advanced to the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    ¡°In front of so many people. Is he making a promise?¡±

    ¡°This is Sect Leader assuring Duan Jingtian, simultaneously resolving hostilities and facilitating a calm resolution. After all, the High Elder of their sect is not on the Sect Leader¡¯s side. If he held this matter to use against him, even the Sect Leader would be hard-pressed. Nevertheless, at Duan Jingtian''s level, the Sect Leader can''t easily reprimand him and must resort to a softer approach.¡±

    These revtions left many individuals shaken.

    Duan Jingtian would surely be the next sect leader of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Although Duan Jingtian had cultivated the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force, the highest secret of the Spring Autumn Sect, as long as the Sect Leader didn¡¯t say the word, his position would still not be officially passed down.

    With the Sect Leader of the Spring Autumn Sect endorsing his session, Duan Jingtian only had to enter the Divine Nascent realm to secure his position as the next sect leader.

    The Sect Leader''s words also hinted that Duan Jingtian''s breakthrough to the Divine Nascent realm was imminent.

    ¡°So, Sect Leader, you want me to give up on killing this person who insulted me?¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s tone, though softened in deference to the Spring Autumn Sect''s leader, still retained traces of reluctance.

    ¡°Enough, Jingtian," the Spring Autumn Sect''s Sect Leader responded calmly, akin to a patient disciplinarian addressing a child. ¡°Your real opponents are those whose names are on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard. Aim for the Divine Nascent realm; cease dwelling on these trivial matters.¡±

    1. Personal disciple refers to those who are taught personally by the master. Going by the context so far in this novel, the ordinary disciples cultivate on their own and get martial art manuals from the Martial Arts Pavilion, maybe get some guidance from their senior disciples. ?

 Chapter 135 - Swearing an Oath

    <h4>Chapter 135 - Swearing an Oath</h4>

    No one expected things to turn out this way.

    With many twists and turns, the event ended with the will of the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s sect leader descending.

    What shocked them even more was the Sect Leader¡¯s attitude toward Duan Jingtian.

    Despite Duan Jingtian''s transgressions and disruptive actions, the Sect Leader maintained a gentle demeanor, appeasing Duan Jingtian''s hostility and even offering him the sect leader position.

    As long as Duan Jingtian advanced to the Divine Nascent realm, the sect leader position would be his. This matter had been established.

    How old was Duan Jingtian?

    Not even twenty-five years old!

    The notion of a prodigy found its embodiment in Duan Jingtian.

    The elders of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Burning Incense Valley, and Mountain River Sect were all very envious of the Spring Autumn Sect, having produced the stunning genius that was Duan Jingtian.

    If Duan Jingtian were to advance into the Divine Nascent realm, the Spring Autumn Sect would have three Divine Nascent realm powerhouses¡ªa situation that unsettled the three great sects.

    Thankfully, they could find sce in the fact that the Spring Autumn Sect wasn¡¯t united.

    ¡°Alright, Sect Leader, if that''s your decision, I''ll let this matter rest. However...¡± Duan Jingtian''s piercing gaze fixed upon Chen Fan, sending a shiver down his spine.

    Duan Jingtian extended his palm, and a powerful gust of wind materialized.

    Unable to maintain his footing, Chen Fan was forcefully swept to the ground, tumbling twice before the Ice Jade Snow Lotus floated before Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°While he may escape the death penalty and punishment, Sect Leader, I''ll be iming this Ice Jade Snow Lotus aspensation. Handle the other matters as you see fit," dered Duan Jingtian as he put away the lotus and prepared to depart, stepping into the void.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian!¡± Chen Fan''s voice rang out suddenly, stopping him.

    Shaking violently, Chen Fan rose to his feet with bloodshot eyes, ring at Duan Jingtian. ¡°Duan Jingtian, you snatched my treasure and insulted my dignity today. I must ept it wholeheartedly because you''re stronger, but I wonder if you dare to grant me three years!¡±

    ¡°Three years?¡±

    Duan Jingtian turned around, casting a mocking gaze down at Chen Fan. ¡°What is your intention? nning to use those three years to cultivate fiercely and seek revenge?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±

    Chen Fan gritted his teeth, his voice strained. ¡°I challenge you to give me this time. If you dare not, then either cripple my cultivation now or have other disciples secretly cripple itter.¡±

    The onlookers were stunned by Chen Fan''s audacity. He was challenging Duan Jingtian, akin to a farmer dering he would seize the emperor''s throne¡ªa preposterous notion.

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡± Duan Jingtian burst intoughter, caught off guard by Chen Fan''s unexpected challenge.

    "You, insignificant as an ant, should be grateful that Wei Buyu and the Sect Leader intervened. I could have killed you with a p. A nobody like you dares to challenge me?! Fine, not just three years, I could grant you a hundred!¡±

    <i>Plop!</i>

    Chen Fan suddenly knelt, raising his fingers towards the sky, and made a solemn oath. ¡°May the heavens bear witness. I, Chen Fan, pledge to be a holy disciple within three years and fight Duan Jingtian in a life-or-death battle at the Heavenly Punishment tform! If I fail to emerge victorious, I shallmit suicide at once, condemned for eternity, never to be reborn! Let the heavens record that any vition of this oath warrants my extermination by the forces of Heaven and Earth, condemned by all beings!¡±

    Duan Jingtian was slightly shaken when Chen Fan made such a vicious oath.

    Meanwhile, onlookers like Leng Feng, Cai Chixia, and Yu Shengyan were initially shocked before conversing amongst themselves.

    ¡°This brat, what a vicious oath. However, catching up to Duan Jingtian within three years is akin to reaching the heavens.¡±

    ¡°Based on my spections, Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation is currently at the sixth or seventh level of the Core Formation realm. With the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, he could even advance to the ninth level, just a step away from the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    ¡°Given Duan Jingtian¡¯s talent, he could enter the almighty Divine Nascent realm within three years. Although Chen Fan has potential,pared to Duan Jingtian... it¡¯ll be pretty good if he can advance to the Core Formation realm within three years!¡±

    ¡°In truth, this boy isn¡¯t ordinary, either. His words have cornered Duan Jingtian. At the very least, no one will trouble him in the next three years. Duan Jingtian must even protect him, or else it would seem he fears Chen Fan''s potential and let others harm him.¡±

    ¡°Who couldn¡¯t see through this little bit of wit? But he only has three years to live. Three years will pass in the blink of an eye. He¡¯ll regret it when the timees.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s gaze shone slightly after he heard the oath. He chuckled coldly and said, ¡°Your courage ismendable, but your temper has strayed into the demonic path. I want to see what you¡¯ll be in three years. Judging by your temper, however, even stepping into the Core Formation realm will be tough!¡±

    With those words, he vanished into the clouds.

    ......

    A huge event like this came to a disappointing end, leaving the matter unsettled.

    Everyone now knew that while Chen Fan had escaped immediate trouble and Duan Jingtian wouldn''t pursue him for three years, others might not share the same restraint.

    Of course, Leng Feng and the others have also witnessed Duan Jingtian¡¯s ferocity, tyranny, and insufferable arrogance, leaving a deep impression in their hearts.

    Even the Spring Autumn Sect Leader had to appease such a powerful character.

    Chen Fan¡¯splexion turned ashen the moment Duan Jingtian left.

    He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. ¡°Duan Jingtian, the day wille when I will trample you with even greater strength to erase today''s shame!¡±

    This defeat weighed heavily on him. Duan Jingtian had even snatched his Ice Jade Snow Lotus.

    He recognized his own weakness, utterly powerless against Duan Jingtian.

    If it weren¡¯t for Zhuo Bufan, Wei Buyu, and even the Spring Autumn Sect Leader¡¯s will descending to appease Duan Jingtian, things wouldn¡¯t have ended as they did today.

    In the end, his oue was still uncertain.

    Determined, Chen Fan swore to cast aside all concerns, dedicate himself to cultivation, forge his primeval vessel, condense a golden core, and advance to Divine Nascent¡ªperhaps even surpassing it.

    ¡°I must have the power to fight Duan Jingtian before he advances to the Divine Nascent realm. Otherwise, once he breaks through to the Divine Nascent realm, there won¡¯t be a ce for me in the entire Great Chu Empire.¡±

    Chen Fan knew time was running out and waited for no one.

    He only had three years, perhaps less.

    His doom would arrive once Duan Jingtian advanced to the Divine Nascent realm.

    The future also held numerous challenges for his cultivation.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s prestige and influence in the Spring Autumn Sect would, on the other hand, allow him to cultivate in peace after entering the inner sect.

    ¡°Alright, Zhuo Bufan, you handle the rest. I¡¯ll be bringing Chen Fan away first.¡±

    As Chen Fan was thinking things through, Wei Buyu¡¯s voice rang out.

    Afterward, he felt himself be lighter. A whirlwind swept him up, and he flew away, following Wei Buyu.

 Chapter 136 - Internal Struggles

    <h4>Chapter 136 - Internal Struggles</h4>

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Wei Buyu and Chen Fan descended on a mountain peak in the Spring Autumn Sect as a wind so cold blew that Chen Fan felt it in his bones.

    Drawing in a sharp breath of cold air, he looked at Wei Buyu''s back and expressed his gratitude, "Many thanks to Senior for saving my life."

    Wei Buyu waved his hand, looking at the sea of clouds. He softly asked, ¡°What are your opinions on Duan Jingtian?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze shone, surprised by the unexpected question. He realized that Wei Buyu sought to understand his perspective and replied, ¡°Strength allows one to vite the rules.¡±

    ¡°Strength allows one to vite the rules?¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s gaze seemed to flicker briefly. He turned around and looked at Chen Fan and expressionlessly said, ¡°Hoho, Duan Jingtian''s actions may breach the rules, but they remain within eptable bounds. His abilities justify pushing the limits of Dragon Mountain Blessed Land''s training.

    ¡°Among this generation of young disciples, he has brought immense glory to our sect. His strength and aplishments warrant such deviations from the rules.

    ¡°He stands atop the younger generation of the Spring Autumn Sect!

    ¡°Moreover, he possesses extraordinary talent, advancing rapidly in cultivation. He is on his way to bing an almighty Divine Nascent realm expert, making him our sect¡¯s leader, and his potential wouldn¡¯t stop at the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    Though Wei Buyu had opposed Duan Jingtian earlier, he now showered him with praises.

    A hint of doubt appeared in the depths of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. ¡°Since Senior looks upon Duan Jingtian so favorably, why did you save me and offend Duan Jingtian in the process?¡±

    ¡°Because our paths diverge,¡± Wei Buyu said inly.

    Chen Fan''s pupils contracted at this revtion.

    <i>Their paths diverge¡ªwhat did that mean?</i>

    Sensing Chen Fan''s confusion, Wei Buyu said, ¡°How much do you know about the inner workings of our sect?¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head.

    He was only an outer sect disciple and had been in the limelight for less than half a year. ustomed to life at the sect''s periphery, he had no insights into its internal dynamics.

    Wei Buyu whispered, ¡°Our sect is not unified; it''s divided into three major factions. The most powerful is the faction led by our current Sect Leader, followed by the High Elder''s faction, and a neutral group that doesn¡¯t like the internal strife.¡±

    Chen Fan was surprised by the extent of factional disputes within the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Yet, upon reflection, it seemed amon urrence, even in his smaller Chen n.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian is in the Sect Leader¡¯s faction?¡± Chen Fan probed.

    Wei Buyu nodded in response. ¡°That¡¯s right. To be precise, he is the current Sect Leader¡¯s sessor.¡±

    Chen Fan finally understood the situation.

    Duan Jingtian aligned with the Sect Leader''s faction, while Wei Buyu had thwarted Duan Jingtian''s attempt to harm Chen Fan, positioning himself against them.

    Had Wei Buyu belonged to the neutral faction, he wouldn¡¯t have gotten into this mess, so he had to be from the High Elder''s faction.

    However, Chen Fan still had doubts. ¡°Senior, although Duan Jingtian is arrogant and overbearing, from what you said earlier, you seem to think rather highly of him. Why does such a remarkable figure still face intense factional struggles within the sect?¡±

    ¡°This matter goes back to many years ago.¡±

    Wei Buyu''s gaze shifted to the drifting clouds. With a nostalgic expression, he narrated, ¡°The conflicts in the Spring Autumn Sect primarily revolve around the current Sect Leader and the High Elder.

    ¡°In the past, they were fellow disciples, both personal disciples of the previous Sect Leader. Possessing exceptional talents, they stood as the absolute pride of our sect. However...¡±

    Wei Buyu paused abruptly, diverting the conversation. ¡°Forget it. There are some things you still aren¡¯t qualified to know about. All you need to know is that the High Elder and the Sect Leader share a rtionship akin to water and fire.

    ¡°Our sect boasts a thousand-year history in the Great Chu Empire, ranked among the top thirty sects.

    ¡°Among the four great sects in Qingyang Mountain Range, only our Spring Autumn Sect has two Divine Nascent Realm powerhouses overseeing us, suppressing the other three great sects. s, internal strife undermines our potential. Otherwise...

    ¡°I shall not speak too much about such matters. I''ll provide more details on the Spring Autumn Sect''s internal dynamicster. After all, you''re one of us now.¡±

    The corners of Chen Fan¡¯s lips twitched, cursing in his heart.

    <i>You''re not even asking for my opinion? Just pulling me into this mess!</i>

    ¡°Nowadays, the Sect Leader¡¯s faction has been growing stronger due to Duan Jingtian. Also, some neutral elders are wavering and leaning toward the Sect Leader¡¯s faction.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian¡¯s talents, the Sect Leader¡¯s vigorous nurturing, and the Ice Jade Snow Lotus that should have been yours will all contribute to increase his cultivation by leaps and bounds. He might not even need three years to advance to the Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid the entire Spring Autumn Sect will face a major cleansing then, with those from the High Elder¡¯s faction bearing the brunt.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian didn¡¯t make things difficult for you because you killed one of his Heaven¡¯s Alliance members and challenged his prestige. I¡¯m afraid he has long been eyeing your Ice Jade Snow Lotus. A single Ice Jade Snow Lotus could save him about a year of cultivation, shortening his time to advance to the Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°The reason he caused such amotion was twofold: first, to find a pretext to take the Ice Jade Snow Lotus, and second, to decisively suppress you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze shone at those words.

    <i>Suppress me?</i>

    <i>I¡¯m not even a threat to Duan Jingtian now!</i>

    Wei Buyu nced at Chen Fan and chuckled. ¡°What? You think you pose no threat to him, and Duan Jingtian didn¡¯t have to go to such great lengths?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking down on yourself too much and overestimating Duan Jingtian.¡±

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°With the talents you¡¯ve shown so far, though not an immediate threat, what about in the future? He may be the Sect Leader''s chosen sessor, but he''s still just that¡ªan heir. All exceptional geniuses nurtured by the sect aspire to be its leader eventually.

    ¡°Furthermore, your conflicts with the Heaven''s Alliance are well-known, making it impossible for him to bring you to his side. Consequently, the High Elder''s faction will naturally draw you in, making you a significant threat to him. Hence...¡±

    Chen Fan finally understood the situation he was in after listening to Wei Buyu''s detailed exnation.

    Perhaps he didn¡¯t intend to join the struggles between the factions in the sect, but Duan Jingtian couldn¡¯t let anyone who could threaten him live.

    However, even if Chen Fan didn¡¯t want to join in, he could not stay out of it.

    Wei Buyu''s intervention had already aligned him with the High Elder''s faction, willingly or not.

    He did not have the choice nor the power to refuse!

 Chapter 137 - Public Enemy

    <h4>Chapter 137 - Public Enemy</h4>

    ¡°I know this matter is unfair to you, or rather, you are being forced into it.¡± Wei Buyu could seemingly read minds, hitting the nail on the head again.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Senior is overstating things. Without your intervention, Duan Jingtian would have ruined my cultivation, leaving me crippled.¡±

    Those words came from the bottom of his heart.

    He was now clearly aware of the internal struggles of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Three major factions.

    Judging by recent events, Outer Sect Master Zhuo Bufan appeared to be in a neutral position.

    When Duan Jingtian was suppressing him, Zhuo Bufan had stood up for him and said a few words. Even though he ultimately gave up, he had spoken for Chen Fan twice.

    The situation wouldn''t have concluded so peacefully had it not been for Wei Buyu''s intervention, opposing Duan Jingtian and going as far as to start a fight, prompting the descent of the Spring Autumn Sect Leader''s will.

    Wei Buyu had saved him!

    This debt of gratitude would be etched in his heart.

    Moreover, what if he got on the High Elder¡¯s boat?

    His rtionship with Duan Jingtian was beyond repair, foreshadowing an inevitable sh between them.

    Given Duan Jingtian¡¯s influence in the sect, Chen Fan would face numerous challenges without a supporter upon entering the inner sect.

    However, now that he was part of the High Elder¡¯s faction, even if certain individuals continued to cause trouble for him, it would be to a much lesser degree. At the very least, they would need to weigh the consequences of provoking the High Elder''s faction.

    It wasn¡¯t like there weren¡¯t any benefits for Chen Fan at all.

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°But Chen Fan, you were a little too reckless. Duan Jingtian is already at the seventh level of the Core Formation realm, and he can advance to the eighth level soon, thanks to the Ice Jade Snow Lotus. He¡¯ll definitely advance to the Divine Nascent realm within three years.

    ¡°I¡¯m not trying to throw a wet nket on you. But why did you make that three-year promise when we aren¡¯t even certain you¡¯ll enter the Core Formation realm by then?¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled lightly and said, ¡°Senior, even without this three-year promise, would Duan Jingtian have spared me?¡±

    Wei Buyu shook his head.

    ¡°Since he would have pursued me regardless, challenging him adds pressure and keeps a sword hanging over me, motivating me to cultivate harder.

    ¡°Moreover, how long before Duan Jingtian advanced to the Divine Nascent realm? Three years? Two years? Once he advances and bes Sect Leader, there won''t be a ce for me in the entire Great Chu Empire.¡±

    A sharp light suddenly rose in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. ¡°Adversity extracts potential. The more dangerous the situation, the greater the eruption of one''s potential.

    ¡°There is no way I can retreat now. Three years is all I have. Within that, if my cultivation doesn''t reach a level to resist Duan Jingtian, then one thing awaits me¡ªDeath!¡±

    Wei Buyu disyed a look of admiration. He said with a smile, ¡°That¡¯s right. Everything you said is true. I really didn¡¯t misjudge you!¡±

    ¡°I, Chen Fan, can die standing but will never live on my knees! Although Duan Jingtian forced me to kneel today with his overwhelming strength, he can''t crush my will. One day, I will trample him under my feet and crush him ruthlessly!¡± Chen Fan said resolutely.

    Although he only had three years, perhaps less, Chen Fan was confident that he would erase today''s shame.

    ¡°Good!¡±

    Wei Buyu''s admiration deepened. Martial artists should have this kind of indomitable will. ¡°Chen Fan, are you willing to acknowledge me as your Master?¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    Wei Buyu abruptly changed the topic, catching Chen Fan off guard.

    ¡°Back at Dragon Mountain Peak, I said you are my personal disciple in front of everyone. Are you going to turn me into aughing stock?¡± Wei Buyu said,ughing.

    Chen Fan quickly bowed, paying his respects. ¡°Disciple Chen Fan pays his respect to Master!¡±

    Laughing heartily, Wei Buyu patted Chen Fan''s shoulders. "Chen Fan, I look forward to the day you trample Duan Jingtian under your feet."

    ¡°I will. I definitely will.¡±

    Chen Fan looked into the distance with determination.

    ......

    As Chen Fan reflected on the day''s events, he found it surreal.

    When he exited Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, Duan Jingtian made things difficult for him, wanting to cripple his cultivation.

    Wei Buyu had intervened, standing against Duan Jingtian and ultimately invoking the Spring Autumn Sect Leader''s will, swiftly concluding the matter.

    Now, he was privy to the internal struggles within the Spring Autumn Sect and had be Wei Buyu''s personal disciple.

    Walking along the mountain path, Chen Fan shook his head.

    ¡°I should check on Uncle Qin and see how he''s faring after being injured by Duan Jingtian.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned sharp. His hatred towards Duan Jingtian grew a little more.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°This guy is challenging Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s prestige. He''s asking for death!¡±

    ¡°He could neverpare to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, even if he cultivated for a hundred years!¡±

    ¡°I think he lost his mind after being scolded by Senior Brother Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°Such hubris. Only Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is nice enough to give him another chance. If it were me, I would have killed him with a p long ago.¡±

    ¡°Three years. Even in three hundred years, he won''t catch up to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°He simply doesn¡¯t know what¡¯s good for him, daring to challenge Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. It¡¯s like throwing an egg at a stone, overestimating his capabilities. It¡¯s nothing more than a vulgar ptrap to seek attention!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Obviously, what happened on Dragon Mountain Peak had spread throughout the outer sect. He had be the public enemy of the outer sect.

    The murmurs reached his ears as he walked by, but he paid no attention, brushing it off.

    Listening to the discussions, he realized he had be a symbol of arrogance and overconfidence. It was likely that the entire Great Chu Empire would know of it soon, and countless people would mock him.

    However, this only fueled his determination to pursue strength.

    Never before had he felt such a thirst for power.

    Without power, he would have no dignity, and others could easily oppress him. Chen Fan couldn''t bear to relive the events of today. Never again in the future.

    He needed great power!

    One day, he would trample Duan Jingtian, the man admired and feared like a god by all, under his feet ruthlessly, in front of everyone.

    He looked forward to the reactions of those who once revered Duan Jingtian. It would be a spectacr sight.

    ¡°That damned little bastard is getting more arrogant by the day. If it weren¡¯t for his good luck, he would have long been smacked to death by Senior Brother Duan Jingtian!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Just look at him. He makes me want to go up and punch him.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, although Senior Brother Duan Jingtian epted his challenge and even guaranteed he wouldn¡¯t touch him in the next three years, more than half of the people in the inner sect see Senior Brother Duan Jingtian as their idol. He will have a hard time doing anything after he enters the inner sect.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Chen Fan traveled, almost everyone he came across was pointing fingers at him. Some even pulled away from Chen Fan, avoiding him like the gue.

    It seemed that everyone now knew of his audacity to challenge Duan Jingtian.

    Who would dare to approach him?

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t mind any of this. Under the crowd¡¯s gazes, he soon arrived at Qin Changkong¡¯s residence.

 Chapter 138 - Heaven Seizing Furnace, Formed!

    <h4>Chapter 138 - Heaven Seizing Furnace, Formed!</h4>

    ¡°Are you telling the truth?¡± Qin Changkong looked at Qin Yao in shock, his eyes wide open.

    Qin Yao nodded, ¡°Mmm. Father, what exactly is the bloodline power inside me?¡±

    After the initial shock, a bitter helplessness crept onto Qin Changkong''s face. He said with a sigh, ¡°Heaven¡¯s will. It¡¯s heaven¡¯s will...¡±

    ¡°Father, do you know something?¡± Qin Yao''s focused gaze tracked the changes in Qin Changkong¡¯s expression.

    Taking a deep breath topose himself, Qin Changkong looked at Qin Yao and sighed again. ¡°Unexpectedly... Unexpectedly... Haaa...¡±

    ¡°Father, tell me, is this rted to Mother?¡± Qin Yao was growing anxious.

    She had never seen her mother before, and Qin Changkong had only shared vague information about her. As such, Qin Yao had no impression of her mother at all.

    Having just recounted the events below Scarlet Cliff and the changes within herself to Qin Changkong, she did not anticipate such a significant reaction. She immediately sensed that something was amiss.

    Qin Changkong nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. Those changes are indeed rted to your mother, but... Haaa, I promised your mother never to tell you about these things for the rest of your life. However, now that your bloodline powers have awakened by chance, that ce... I¡¯m afraid they already know about it.¡±

    A deep-seated hatred flickered in Qin Changkong¡¯s eyes, eventually giving way to an expression of helplessness.

    ¡°That ce? Which ce is that?¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s pupils shrunk, and the confusion on her face became even deeper.

    Qin Changkong''s face betrayed a worried expression as he looked at Qin Yao. ¡°Yaoyao, there are some things I can¡¯t tell you now. The moment your bloodline powers awakened, a crisis descended. I must swiftly take you away from here. Otherwise, when those from that ce arrive, you and I...

    ¡°I promised your mother never to disclose this to you in your lifetime, hoping you''d grow up in peace. I thought bringing you here would allow us to live peacefully, but the training in the blessednd unexpectedly... Haaa...¡±

    Qin Yao suddenly shouted, ¡°Father, tell me, what is happening?! My mother, my mother she¡ª¡±

    ¡°Senior Sister, Uncle Qin, are you in?¡±

    Their conversation was interrupted by Chen Fan''s voice.

    Qin Changkong and Qin Yao¡¯s expressions went nk.

    Qin Changkong said, ¡°Yaoyao, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to tell you some things, but I can''t. Your mother isn''t dead. She''s still alive.¡±

    ¡°Alright, you don¡¯t have to ask anymore. I won¡¯t say anything further," Qin Changkong concluded, walking toward the door.

    ¡°Xiaofan, what brings you here?¡±

    Chen Fan hurriedly walked up and asked, ¡°Uncle Qin, how are your injuries?¡±

    Qin Changkong had defended Chen Fan back at Dragon Mountain Peak and suffered an injury from Duan Jingtian¡¯s gaze, flying back and throwing up blood. Chen Fan was here to ask about his well-being.

    Qin Changkong smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing serious. No need to worry. You, on the other hand, are you alright?¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head. His tone turned cold as he asserted, ¡°Uncle Qin, the day wille when I trample Duan Jingtian under my feet for what happened today.¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan, I have heard about the internal struggles within our sect. Since you¡¯re already the Pavilion Guard Elder¡¯s personal disciple, even though challenges might await you when you enter the inner sect, they won''t be overt. Consider it a form of tempering on your martial arts journey,¡± Qin Changkong said after hearing some details from Chen Fan.

    ¡°Mmm.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    Every renowned martial master and unparalleled powerhouse reached the pinnacle after facing numerous trials.

    ¡°But Xiaofan, that three-year promise you made with Duan Jingtian... Although that person is extremely arrogant and overbearing, I must admit he is a monstrous genius.¡±

    A look of worry showed on Qin Changkong¡¯s face.

    Chen Fan said sharply, ¡°Uncle Qin, given Duan Jingtian¡¯s talents, he will advance to the Divine Nascent realm within three years. As the Sect Leader stated, Duan Jingtian will then ascend to the position of Spring Autumn Sect Leader. Do you think there''ll be a path for me to follow at that time?

    ¡°So, why not use Duan Jingtian as motivation to push myself to cultivate even harder! Pressure breeds motivation. I will sentence myself to death before carving a living way out. Who knows what the situation will be like in three years?

    ¡°Duan Jingtian is indeed an outstanding genius, but the lightning strike enlightened me. In just half a year, I went from martial trash to bing a Qi Grandmaster... Three years is more than enough for me!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly and said firmly, ¡°I introduced the three-year time limit for two reasons: firstly, to increase the pressure on myself, and secondly, to secure three years.

    ¡°During these three years, Duan Jingtian won¡¯ty a hand on me. As for the others... I am now the personal disciple of the Pavilion Guard Elder and someone from the High Elder¡¯s faction. If those people want to touch me, they must consider the consequences of facing the High Elder¡¯s wrath!¡±

    Qin Changkong sized up Chen Fan carefully for a short time, then smiled in satisfaction. ¡°You¡¯ve grown up, Xiaofan. Your father will be proud. Since you''ve outlined your ns, Uncle Qin believes in your capability.¡±

    ......

    After leaving Qin Changkong¡¯s ce, Chen Fan returned to his residence.

    ¡°ck Flood Dragon demon core...¡±

    A demon core emitting powerful energy waves appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s hand, and a dragon¡¯s roar emanated from that demon core.

    This item hade into Chen Fan''s possession after he killed Wang Fuchen, and it was a crucialponent forpleting the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    When he had killed the Devil-Faced Spider King and obtained its demon core, he was only a step away frompletely cultivating the Heaven Seizing Furnace after refining it.

    Now, the ck Flood Dragon demon core served as the key to ovee that final hurdle.

    ¡°Once I seed in forming the Heaven Seizing Furnace, I will be able to refine everything within heaven and earth as I wish!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s heart thumped heavily.

    After mastering the first stage of Heaven Seizing Art, a qualitative transformation urred in the cultivator''s primeval qi, leading to the condensation of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    The furnace could refine everything, even devouring someone else¡¯s vitality to replenish their own. Demon beasts¡¯ demon cores, or all kinds of elixirs, they all worked.

    With thepletion of the Heaven Seizing Furnace, Chen Fan''s cultivation would undergo a substantial eruption, advancing rapidly and significantly.

    Although he imed that the three-year promise was to pressure himself, in truth, Chen Fan only wanted to buy himself enough time.

    After all...

    Without the three-year promise, Duan Jingtian might not hesitate to eliminate him upon realizing the threat posed by Chen Fan''s rapid growth.

    Setting the three-year promise gave him some assurance.

    Certainly, the possibility existed that Duan Jingtian might break the promise, but such an action would tarnish his reputation.

    ¡°Just you wait, Duan Jingtian!¡±

    Cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He immediately threw the ck Flood Dragon demon core into his mouth.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    He activated his divine art, unleashing the powerful energies within the demon core.

    Three dayster.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A resounding boom echoed from within Chen Fan. The Heaven Seizing Furnace resonated continuously¡ªhe had sessfully formed the furnace.

    His entire person emanated the aura of someone controlling the powers of a god.

    Behind him, a colossal figure of the Heaven Seizing Furnace materialized from primeval qi. Deep within it,va boiled, emitting an aura reminiscent of sulfur from hell. Gazing upon it induced a sensation as if one''s soul was on the verge of melting away.

 Chapter 139 - Zhuxian Town

    <h4>Chapter 139 - Zhuxian Town</h4>

    The year was drawing to a close.

    ¡°It¡¯s been three years since I went home. I wonder how father and grandfather are doing.¡±

    Standing atop a mountain peak, he surveyed the outer sect, now quieter than before. The once-vibrant surroundings seemed somewhat deserted, creating a sense of unease within him.

    Aware that many had left the sect to celebrate the new year with their families and ns, only to returnter to continue their cultivation, Chen Fan felt a tinge of istion.

    Chen Fan hadn¡¯t visited his family for the past three years because he used to be martial trash. The fear of disappointing his father and grandfather had kept him within the confines of the sect, avoiding the sadness he believed he would bring to his family.

    Now, however, he was no longer a martial trash.

    He was now a Qi Grandmaster capable of ying first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouses, so he would be the deserved number one person even if he returned to his n.

    He envisioned surprising his family upon his return with newfound strength and confidence.

    After bidding Qin Changkong and Qin Yao farewell, Chen Fan left the sect, riding a Golden Horned Horse. [1]

    In the Great Chu Empire, only one imperial city existed, which was directly controlled by the royal family and served as the empire''srgest city.

    The royal family''s influence extended throughout the Great Chu Empire. It was divided into 36 counties and 588 cities, radiating outward from the imperial city like stars surrounding the moon.

    Each county fell under the governance of a prince''s mansion, with cities and towns dispersed like chess pieces across the counties.

    The counties were further categorized into upper, middle, and lower tiers, determined by the influence of affluent ns, powerful families, and the prince''s mansion in each county.

    Take an upper-tier county, for example. That county''s managing prince¡¯s mansion needed to have a Core Formation realm powerhouse overseeing it.

    The counties located closest to the imperial city were upper-tier counties, and those further away were middle-tier counties. Those at the edges of the empire were all lower-tier counties.

    Apart from the 36 counties, the 588 cities were simrly divided into Grade-1, Grade-2, and Grade-3 cities.

    Theprehensive strength of a Grade-1 city affiliated with upper-tier counties rivaled that of a lower-tier county.

    Qingyang County was a middle-tier county.

    Chen Fan''s n resided in Xuanyang City, a Grade-3 city located tens of thousands of miles from Qingyang County City. Even though the Golden Horned Horse could travel ten thousand miles a day, Chen Fan needed several days to arrive home.

    In the next few days, Chen Fan¡¯s journey went smoothly.

    He alternated between pushing forward and taking necessary breaks.

    After four days, in the evening, he entered Zhuxian Town, a town under the jurisdiction of the Grade-2 city Yunfeng City. Though smaller and less bustling than a Grade-3 city, Zhuxian Town was still considered a sizable urban center.

    Despite its designation as a town, Zhuxian Town resembled a small city.

    Chen Fan settled down at the Sunset Inn. He nned to rest for the night before continuing on his way tomorrow.

    Though it was merely an inn in a town, he was surprised to discover that it was almost full. Thankfully, he arrived just in time to secure thest avable room.

    Chen Fan sat by the window on the inn''s second floor, looking at the setting sun and the bustling street below. He ordered some wine and the inn''s signature dishes, enjoying his meal alone.

    ......

    ¡°Brother Wang, what''s thetest in town? I''ve noticed a lot of unfamiliar facestely. What''s going on?¡±

    A group of youths dressed in silk clothing at a nearby table caught Chen Fan''s attention.

    A ck-robed youth addressed a figure known as Brother Wang, the apparent leader of the group. He belonged to one of the top ns of Zhuxian Town and was better informed, so the others asked him.

    ¡°Brother Wang¡± swept his gaze around and gestured for his buddies toe closer, and whispered, ¡°You know about our Zhuxian Town¡¯s history, right?¡±

    ¡°What history?¡± replied the others, skeptical.

    Brother Wang said, ¡°The Zhu family, the number one n of our Zhuxian Town. Rumors have it that they were arge n in Yunfeng City a hundred years ago, with a Yuanfu realm powerhouse overseeing their n. However, their Yuanfu realm powerhouse perished in an incident. Without a backer, the Zhu family had no choice but to move here.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all? If a declining family like the Zhu family had continued to stay in Yunfeng City, they would have been divided up and swallowed by the other ns sooner orter. That¡¯s just the self-preservation method of most declining families,¡± said a ck-robed youth, casually dismissing the story.

    Brother Wang said, ¡°Yes, that is indeed nothing much, but do you know where that Yuanfu realm ancestor from the Zhu family perished?¡±

    ¡°Where?¡±

    The ck-robed youth and the others immediately grew interested. ¡°Could it be...¡±

    Brother Wang smiled and nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s right here, in Zhuxian Town. Your ns have only moved to Zhuxian Town in thest few decades and aren¡¯t as established as our Wang family. We have always been in Zhuxian Town from the times of our ancestors and know quite a lot of things.

    ¡°A hundred years ago, Zhuxian Town faced a cmity that led to the ruin of many martial ns. The Wang family, still weak at that time, narrowly escaped the disaster.¡±

    ¡°What cmity?¡± asked the ck-robed youth hurriedly.

    They didn¡¯t know any of those things, as their background wasn¡¯t as deep as the Wang family¡¯s.

    Brother Wang continued, ¡°A Thousand Year Corpse King appeared in Zhuxian Town about a century ago. Can you even grasp the concept? A Thousand Year Corpse King cultivating for a millennium, possessing Yuanfu realm strength.

    ¡°At that time, the martial ns in Zhuxian Town had no Yuanfu realm powerhouses. When the Thousand Year Corpse King appeared, the entire Zhuxian Town plunged into a bloody cmity. Countless lost their lives.

    ¡°It''s not clear whether it was a coincidence, but the Zhu family''s Yuanfu realm ancestor happened to be passing by Zhuxian Town. Seeing the bloody scene, he immediately engaged in a huge battle with the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    "I don''t have all the details, but what I know is that the Zhu family''s ancestor ultimately suppressed the Thousand Year Corpse King by sacrificing himself to resolve that blood cmity. Our Wang family rose to power from then on.¡±

    ¡°Zhu family¡¯s old ancestor sacrificed himself to suppress it?! That Thousand Year Corpse King was that powerful?¡± eximed the ck-robed youth in shock.

    Brother Wang shrugged and said, ¡°How would I know? I only learned all this from my n¡¯s records. Despite sacrificing himself, the Zhu family could only suppress the Thousand Year Corpse King and not kill it. He mustn¡¯t have been that strong, I guess. He was very likely only a first-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Otherwise, even if the Zhu family lost a Yuanfu realm ancestor, they wouldn¡¯t have declined overnight and had to move to our Zhuxian Town hastily.¡±

    ¡°Brother Wang, what does this history lesson have to do with the recent changes in Zhuxian Town? Could it be rted to that old ancestor from the Zhu family?¡± asked the ck-robed youth.

    Zhuxian Town had witnessed an influx of foreign experts, including several Qi Grandmasters. It had spread unease among the town''s various ns, including the one to which the ck-robed youth belonged.

    Brother Wang raised his head and looked around again. Seeing as no one was paying attention to their side, he nodded slightly and said, ¡°That¡¯s right! That old ancestor from the Zhu family practiced a Buddhist cultivation technique. It''s possible that his inclination toward Buddhism led him to intervene when he encountered the Thousand Year Corpse King, causing havoc in Zhuxian Town.

    ¡°Fast forward to three days ago, and strange changes were reported in the rear mountains of the Zhu n, where the Thousand Year Corpse King was subdued. Witnesses im to have seen a golden Buddhist light. Considering those who follow the path of Buddhism often leave behind a Buddhist Bone Relic upon their death, the implications are significant.

    ¡°You all are aware of the Buddhist Bone Relic¡¯s efficacy, right? It could create at least one Yuanfu realm powerhouse.¡±

    The ck-robed youth and the others were astonished. They lowered their voices and cried in shock, ¡°So, these outsiders are likely here for the Buddhist Bone Relic!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Brother Wang nodded.

    1. During the mini auction arc Chen Fan killed the arrogant guy and rode his horse back, it might be the same horse. ?

 Chapter 140 - Three Days

    <h4>Chapter 140 - Three Days</h4>

    ¡°Buddhist Bone Relic?¡±

    Chen Fan''s ears picked up every word of the conversation between Brother Wang and his friends, even though they spoke in hushed tones. His eyes narrowed as he absorbed the information.

    Among the aplished Buddhist monks, a phenomenon existed where their essence condensed into Buddhist Bone Relics upon their death in the lotus position. These relics possessed extraordinary and miraculous properties.

    That Brother Wang had imed it could create a Yuanfu realm powerhouse. He wasn¡¯t lying.

    Unbeknownst to Chen Fan, a Buddhist Bone Relic could also miraculously resurrect the dead and regenerate flesh on bare bones.

    Buddhists greatly emphasized merit and virtue, exemplified by the Zhu n¡¯s ancestor, who sacrificed himself to suppress the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    Although very few Buddhists in the Yuanfu realm could condense a Buddhist Bone Relic after death, the profound merit earned by the old ancestor made it possible to condense it.

    ¡°If there really is a Buddhist Bone Relic, Father¡¯s injuries...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze suddenly turned sharp.

    His father, Chen Zhengqing, once a genius and a Yuanfu realm expert, suffered a severe injury under mysterious circumstances. His primeval vessel, the power source for a Yuanfu realm expert, had shattered and couldn¡¯t be restored.

    Consequently, his cultivation had plummeted to the ninth level of Qigong, reducing him to a Qi Grandmaster.

    Chen Fan vividly remembered his father sighing in solitude during his youth.

    Had Chen Zhengqing¡¯s primeval vessel not been broken, the Chen family might have settled in a grade-2 city instead of Xuanyang City, a grade-3 city.

    Despite the n''s persistent search for elixirs to help Chen Zhengqing, none proved effective.

    Although pills capable of restoring a shattered primeval vessel existed, the Chen ncked the strength to acquire them.

    If Chen Fan could obtain the Buddhist Bone Relic, there would be a glimmer of hope for Chen Zhengqing''s recovery.

    ......

    ¡°I see. I wondered why so many Qi Grandmasters wereing to our Zhuxian Town; they all had their sights on the Zhu n. A Buddhist Bone Relic, huh? A stepping stone to the Yuanfu realm. Which Qi Grandmaster could resist the temptation?¡±

    The ck-robed youth sighed, then looked at Brother Wang and said, ¡°Brother Wang, your Wang n has Qi Grandmasters, too. Are they nning on joining thepetition?¡±

    Brother Wang chuckled, shook his head, and said, ¡°Compete for what? Our Wang n doesn¡¯t have any grand ambitions. We¡¯re content with protecting what we have here.

    ¡°Also, my old man said that the Buddhist Bone Relic isn¡¯t a blessing but a disaster. Given the presence of numerous Qi Grandmasters, even those at the peak stage, involvement could lead to our demise with a slight misstep.

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy for our Wang n to grow to our current size. We have no desire to see it ruined. Moreover, whether a Buddhist Bone Relic will be born is still uncertain.¡±

    Brother Wang adopted a stern tone as he told the ck-robed youth and others, ¡°I consider you my brothers. I advise you that it¡¯s best for your n not to get involved in this. [1]

    ¡°That Thousand Year Corpse King was only heavily injured and suppressed. The golden Buddhist light could be a ploy to lure people and break its seal, allowing it to return to the world. At that time...¡±

    The group quivered when he presented the grim scenario, fear etched across their faces.

    The looming prospect of the Thousand Year Corpse King returning to the world invoked a chilling image¡ªZhuxian Town transformed into a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood.

    ¡°Let''s hope Brother Wang''s apprehensions don''t materialize," the ck-robed youth muttered, visibly retracting his neck.

    ¡°Whether it''s a trap set by the Thousand Year Corpse King or the emergence of a Buddhist Bone Relic, I must intervene for my father''s sake.¡±

    A sharp light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes with determination.

    Several Qi Grandmasters had arrived in Zhuxian Town. He had already spotted at least five, presumably drawn by the allure of the Buddhist Bone Relic. Still, Chen Fan remained unperturbed.

    After all, he was a Qi Grandmaster with the strength to kill Yuanfu realm experts. No matter how many Qi Grandmasters came at him, they wouldn¡¯t be Chen Fan¡¯s match.

    He wasn¡¯t afraid of the Thousand Year Corpse King either. Even if he wasn¡¯t a match for it, the corpse king certainly couldn¡¯t stop him if he wanted to leave.

    ......

    Zhu n¡¯s residence:

    Three silhouettes stood together in the living room, their expressions grave and ugly.

    These three people were none other than the Zhu n''s trio of Qi Grandmasters.

    As a martial n once developing in a grade-2 city, although they had fallen, their umted foundation remained formidable.

    The elder among them, positioned in the middle, was a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster. The Zhu n held enough power to dominate other martial ns in Zhuxian Town.

    ¡°Father, our reports indicate a surge in experts gathering in Zhuxian Town over thest two days, particrly numerous Qi Grandmasters. It''s clear they''re targeting our old ancestor''s Buddhist Bone Relic!¡± eximed Zhu Xiaohu, the Second Master of the Zhu n, his frustration evident.

    A hundred years ago, Zhu n¡¯s old ancestor had sacrificed himself to suppress the Thousand Year Corpse King. The subsequent decline forced the n to relocate from Yunfeng City to Zhuxian Town for redevelopment.

    The forbiddennd in the rear mountains, where the old ancestor had sealed the Thousand Year Corpse King, remained dormant for a century.

    However, an unexpected golden light shot into the sky three days ago, attracting attention. Despite their swift attempts to suppress it, the news spread like wildfire.

    The sudden activity acted as a ma, drawing rogue cultivator Qi Grandmasters and those from martial ns to Zhuxian Town.

    What initially seemed like an opportunity for the Zhu n''s revival had now transformed into a crisis.

    Zhu Yuanqing, the elder at peak-stage ninth-level Qigong, furrowed his brow. The waning strength of his qi and blood added to their predicament.

    Now that so many Qi Grandmasters hade, every one aiming for the Buddhist Bone Relic, their Zhu n had fallen into a dire position.

    Should they open their doors to let those people fight for it together?

    Their Zhu n might not be able to obtain it in the end. If they couldn¡¯t get it, then their Zhu n couldn''t rise again.

    Should they keep their doors shut and keep everyone out?

    If those people joined hands to charge the Zhu n, the threebined couldn¡¯t stop them. It could end their n.

    A fierce light flickered in the First Master, Zhu Xiaolong¡¯s eyes. ¡°Father, Second Brother, news of this matter has already spread, so more people wille to Zhuxian Town. There might even be Yuanfu realm experts interested in it.¡±

    ¡°Our Zhu n can¡¯t guard it! If we keep those people out, I¡¯m afraid our n will be destroyed. Why don¡¯t we allow them inside and let them fight for it?¡±

    ¡°Despite the golden light in the forbiddennd, remember, our old ancestor only suppressed the Thousand Year Corpse King. The corpse king isn''t dead; thismotion might be its ploy to lure more people and break our ancestor''s suppression method.

    ¡°If that is the case, then why don¡¯t we y along and let those people fight it out? We can act when both sides are weakened and take advantage of the situation!¡±

    Zhu Yuanqing and Zhu Xiaohu eagerly embraced the idea.

    ¡°Xiaolong, you have a point. We''re uncertain if it''s our old ancestor''s Buddhist Bone Relic or the corpse king''s scheme. If it truly is the corpse king¡¯s scheme, hmph, we¡¯ll let them fight it out. Our Zhu n can also avoid a disaster. If it¡¯s our old ancestor¡¯s Buddhist Bone Relic, we¡¯ll move after both sides are heavily injured, taking advantage of the situation!¡± [2]

    Zhu Yuanqing said, ¡°Xiaolong, I entrust the detailed arrangements to you.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Zhu Xiaolong''s eyes gleamed with cunning.

    The next day, news circted from the Zhu n, suggesting that the golden light in their forbiddennd likely signaled the emergence of a Buddhist Bone Relic. Acknowledging their inability to seize the treasure, the Zhu n announced they would open their doors in three days, inviting people to enter the forbiddennd together and break the prohibition.

    Zhuxian Town buzzed with excitement upon hearing the news.

    In the Sunset Inn, Chen Fan also got wind of this news, and his eyes shone. ¡°Three dayster, huh? I¡¯ll wait three days, then.¡±

    1. Wang Xiong sounds simr to Brother Wang ?

    2. It¡¯s both the father and brother speaking at the same time. I know, it¡¯s a long paragraph, it¡¯s impossible for the two to be in sync the whole time but whatever. ?

 Chapter 141 - Relic Appears

    <h4>Chapter 141 - Relic Appears</h4>

    Since he needed to wait three days, Chen Fan decided to stay at Sunset Inn.

    Given his strength, he could sneak into the Zhu n to assess the situation undetected.

    Uncertain about the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s strength, he decided against rash actions that might lead to trouble.

    Rather than risking an encounter with a formidable opponent, he opted to wait until everyone went together to investigate and find out what was happening.

    In any case, he believed the Buddhist Bone Relic was already essentially his.

    If there weren¡¯t any danger, it wouldn¡¯t be toote for him to seize it then.

    ......

    ¡°It''s surprising. The Zhu n is opening its doors wide, inviting everyone into the forbiddennd to seize the treasure.¡±

    Wang Xiong¡¯s group of friends had gathered in Sunset Inn again today to have a drink and enjoy themselves.

    The news from the Zhu n was now known to everyone in Zhuxian Town¡ªno exceptions.

    Wang Xiong stuffed some greens into his mouth, nced at his buddies, and said, ¡°What else could they do? The matter has already spread, and quite a few Qi Grandmasters havee to our town. Could the Zhu n stop these people even if they wanted to?¡±

    ¡°But what if the news is just a front? They might be stalling these people for three days while the Zhu n''s three Qi Grandmasters seize the treasure,¡± said the ck-robed youth.

    Wang Xiong nced at him and shook his head, dismissing the idea. ¡°Impossible. Those outsiders aren''t idiots. At least five Qi Grandmaster powerhouses are keeping watch on the Zhu n residence. Could the Zhu n really hide it if they made a move?¡±

    His statement earned nods of agreement from the others. ¡°As expected of Brother Wang. You see far ahead indeed. We¡¯re far from reaching your level.¡±

    Wang Xiong raised his nose high, enjoying the ttery, and added, ¡°If the Zhu n wanted the treasure, they would have acted already. The fact that they haven''t suggests they can''t break the restriction with their own strength.

    ¡°Think about it. A Yuanfu realm powerhouse left that seal to suppress the Thousand Year Corpse King at the cost of his life. A hundred years have passed, but I¡¯m afraid breaking it isn¡¯t easy. They need more people to gather enough strength.

    ¡°Besides, the Zhu n must be testing the waters. If it''s a trap set by the Thousand Year Corpse King, they won''t be the ones suffering.¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled inwardly at Wang Xiong''s insight, surprised by his astuteness.

    ......

    Three days went by in the blink of an eye.

    The Zhu n''s residence doors swung wide open.

    Zhu Yuanqing and his two sons, the Qi Grandmasters of the Zhu n, looked at the crowd before them with narrowed eyes.

    Over a dozen Qi Grandmasters stood among the crowd, two even at the peak stage. Among them were also many eight-level Qigong martial artists.

    ¡°Everyone, pleasee with me.¡±

    Zhu Yuanqing didn¡¯t bother with any unnecessary talk.

    These people wanted the Buddhist Bone Relic, eyeing it covetously. He led them straightforwardly toward the forbiddennd in the rear mountain, as words would do nothing at this stage.

    Zhu Yuanqing and the crowd arrived at the forbidden area, which, despite being called the rear mountains, turned out to be a barren valley.

    Upon entering, they witnessed the golden light pulses deep inside the valley, indicating a treasure''s birth¡ªan unmistakable phenomenon.

    The breathing of the Qi Grandmasters quickened.

    Having thoroughly investigated the events a century ago in Zhuxian Town, everyone was aware of the blood cmity and the Thousand Year Corpse King''s suppression by the Zhu n''s ancestor at the cost of his life. It was an act of great virtue.

    There was an eighty percent chance of condensing a Buddhist Bone Relic if a Buddhist martial artist achieved such great merit.

    Noticing the golden light apanied by Sanskrit hymns in the valley, the crowd grew more convinced that it was indeed a Buddhist Bone Relic.

    Using the relic, they could rise through the clouds, forging their primeval vessel and advancing to the Yuanfu realm.

    Among the spectators was Chen Fan, concealing his true cultivation within the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    He was just an eighth-level martial artist to the people, blending seamlessly into the crowd and attracting no attention.

    ¡°Everyone, this is the ce. Please help yourselves.¡±

    Zhu Yuanqing pointed at the valley ahead. ¡°Our Zhu n only has one request. When you are fighting for the treasure, please do not implicate our Zhu n¡¯s descendants.¡±

    A stern look shed in a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster middle-aged man¡¯s eyes. ¡°Patriarch Zhu, are you not going toe with us?¡±

    ¡°Our Zhu n is aware of our weakness. We don¡¯t have the ability to obtain this treasure, so we¡¯re not participating in it,¡± Zhu Yuanqing said indifferently.

    Another peak-stage Qi Grandmaster, a man dressed in ck robes, smiled coldly and said, ¡°Patriarch Zhu, I believe you should apany us. Your Zhu n''s ancestor is buried below, so you should be more knowledgeable about the methods left behind.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Patriarch Zhu. Let¡¯s go together.¡±

    Echoing the sentiment, the other Qi Grandmasters joined in, their voices carrying a threatening undertone.

    How could they be unaware of the dangers involved?

    Zhu n¡¯s old ancestor had to sacrifice himself just to suppress the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    So, they also suspected the strange phenomenon to be a trap set by the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    Zhu Yuanqing''s expression soured as he retorted angrily, ¡°What are your intentions? We offered the treasure willingly, and now you''re pressuring us, forcing our Zhu n to participate. Are you bullying us for not having enough experts?¡±

    A powerful aura erupted from Zhu Yuanqing, making the eighth-level martial artists take a step back with darkened expressions.

    ¡°Patriarch Zhu, let''s not beat around the bush. We''re not fools. You think we don¡¯t know what you''re scheming? If your Zhu n doesn¡¯te with us, then fine, we¡¯re bullying your Zhu n for yourck of people!¡±

    The ck-robed Qi Grandmaster¡¯s voice suddenly turned cold. His killing intent surged, making the temperature in the area drop.

    The other peak-stage Qi Grandmaster and the other Qi Grandmasters¡¯ cold gazes also all fell onto Zhu Yuanqing, signaling their readiness to destroy the Zhu n if necessary.

    Zhu Yuanqing and his sons¡¯ expressions sank. After a brief pause, he said coldly, ¡°Fine, we¡¯ll go together!¡±

    The group proceeded toward the source of the golden light.

    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s do it together! Although it¡¯s a suppression method left behind by our old ancestor, a hundred years have passed since. More than half of its power has dissipated. With so many Qi Grandmasters joining forces, breaking it will be easy," Zhu Yuanqing said.

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    The others nodded.

    ¡°And you people, since you¡¯re here, I''m sure you''re seeking benefits. You''re going to work for it,¡± Zhu Yuanqing said, looking at the group of eighth-level martial artists.

    Powerful auras emanated from over a dozen Qi Grandmasters, their primeval qi enveloping them. Hidden among the eighth-level martial artists, Chen Fan also gathered his primeval qi.

    ¡°Strike now!¡± Zhu Yuanqing shouted.

    Simultaneously, everyone''s cultivation darted toward the surging golden light.

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    Explosions reverberated instantly, shaking the ground like an earthquake.

    The onught of qi from the crowd bombarded the area, making the golden light waver. A noise reminiscent of cracking ss followed.

    <i>Boomtch!</i>

    The ground erupted, and within the resulting cratery an ancient corpse.

    A golden relic hovered above the corpse''s brow, portraying a seated Buddha chanting sutras.

    ¡°It¡¯s indeed a Buddhist Bone Relic!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s gazes immediately burned with greed when they saw the Buddhist Bone Relic.

 Chapter 142 - Thousand Year Corpse King

    <h4>Chapter 142 - Thousand Year Corpse King</h4>

    The crowd¡¯s gazes burned with greed at the sight of the Buddhist Bone Relic, envisioning their advancement to the Yuanfu realm.

    However, no one dared to move rashly, as no one knew if the century of suppression had seeded in killing the corpse king.

    ¡°You, go!¡±manded the ck-robed Qi Grandmaster, directing a cold gaze at an eighth-level practitioner to make them investigate.

    ¡°No!¡±

    That person immediately shook their head and turned to run.

    Was there any difference between investigating it and courting death?

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    A cold light shed in that ck-robed man¡¯s eyes. He struck out with a punch, killing that martial artist.

    ¡°You, that¡¯s right, you. Don¡¯t think of running, or you¡¯re dead. You saw what happened to thest guy who tried that, right?¡± The ck-robed man singled out another eighth-level martial artist.

    This person instantly turned pale, their legs trembling. They swallowed their saliva and moved forward weakly, slowly approaching the pit with the corpse.

    Standing next to the pit, they sighed in relief; the ancient corpse was as still as the dead. Turning to the ck-robed man, they reported, ¡°No... no movements!¡±

    The ck-robed youth and the others sighed in relief. ¡°Pick up the Buddhist Bone Relic.¡±

    ¡°Huh?¡±

    That person was stunned.

    ¡°I said, pick up the Buddhist Bone Relic!¡± The ck-robed youth''s voice grew cold and annoyed.

    ¡°Oh, alright.¡±

    This person nodded their head, their voice slightly trembling. They wondered what would happen if they quickly swallowed it. Would they immediately enter the Yuanfu realm?

    The thought made them iparably excited. Reaching for the Buddhist Bone Relic, the personughed excitedly upon holding it.

    ¡°Haha, hahaha, the Buddhist Bone Relic is mine. It¡¯s...¡±

    Suddenly, the ancient corpse''s eyes snapped open. With an evil gaze, it thrust its arm and stabbed the guy¡¯s chest. Momentster, it pulled its arms back, carrying a heart with it.

    The crowd, prepared to snatch the relic, froze as if doused in cold water upon witnessing this gruesome scene.

    ¡°Keke, it¡¯s been a hundred years. This king was suppressed for a hundred years, and finally... Finally! I¡¯m seeing the light of day again!¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King stood up, its aura fluctuating and enveloping the surroundings. The Qi Grandmasters were nearly overwhelmed, facing the resurgence of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    A Yuanfu realm powerhouse¡ªthe Thousand Year Corpse King!

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t move an inch under this aura.

    Under the relentless pressure, the eighth-level martial artist, the one without a heart, exploded like a watermelon, and the Buddhist Bone Relic slipped into the grasp of the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    ¡°Baldy, damned baldy, you suppressed this king for a hundred years but ultimately ended up as this Buddhist Bone Relic. Haha, your relic is in my hands now. I shall put it to good use," the Thousand Year Corpse King proimed, holding the relic and cackling with a voice sharp enough to pierce eardrums.

    ¡°Mmm, such fresh air, such fresh blood and flesh. Good. Very good. Since so many people are here, with quite a few Qi Grandmasters, it¡¯s enough for me to recover to my peak," the Thousand Year Corpse King dered, casting a sinister gaze toward Zhu Yuanqing and the others. His words struck fear into everyone present.

    ¡°A trap, this is the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s trap!¡±

    ¡°It is a Yuanfu realm expert! Run, quickly, run!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re done for. We let out a big monster!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone''s expressions, except for Chen Fan''s, fell drastically. Not a hint of blood could be seen on their faces, including the Qi Grandmasters.

    Under the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s terrifying aura, even the ck-robed Qi Grandmaster and the others felt their legs turning into jelly, their throats drying.

    ¡°To show my thanks to you all for freeing mepletely, I will suck all your blood dry and refine you into my ancient corpse ves!¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s aura was brutal as it instantly made its move.

    Its withered palm grabbed at the air, releasing dark corpses that resembled five long ck nails from its fingertips. They corroded everything in their path with hissing noises.

    ¡°Join forces. We attack together, or we can all forget about escaping!¡± Zhu Yuanqing roared, his cultivation erupting violently. Primeval qi spewed and shot forth, shing with the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s attack.

    ¡°Hmm? You¡¯re that baldy¡¯s descendant. Good, very good. I will refine you alive into an ancient corpse and make you suffer pain a hundred times worse than the others!¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s arm shook. Zhu Yuanqing''s attack crumbled like tofu, and a formidable force darted through the air. It struck him and left his qi and blood shaken, making him spew fresh blood.

    The corpse king¡¯s very first attack had injured a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster, terrifying the crowd even more.

    The strength of a Yuanfu realm powerhouse was now evident, reducing even a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster to the status of an ant.

    ¡°Run!¡±

    The thought of joining forces against the Thousand Year Corpse King vanished. Everyone turned and fled, including the Qi Grandmasters.

    Who cared about the Buddhist Bone Relic or whatever when their lives were at stake? What was the point in coveting it?!

    ¡°My ancient corpse ves, where are you running to?¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King smiled eerily, spreading a poisonous cloud of corpse qi that blocked all directions. If one inhaled it, theirplexion would darken before they would go limp.

    ¡°Don¡¯t, don¡¯t kill me, please.¡±

    ¡°Corpse king, spare our lives, spare our lives, please!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people kneeled on the ground immediately, kowtowing and begging the Thousand Year Corpse King for mercy. Even some Qi Grandmasters knelt and followed suit.

    ¡°Keke, spare your lives? Refining you into my ancient corpse ves is the greatest mercy I can show you!¡± The Thousand Year Corpse King stepped forward, its terrifying corpse qi rolling, the Yuanfu realm aura shrouding everything.

    ¡°A mere corpse dares act viciously!¡±

    Suddenly, an icy cold voice rang out.

    It was Chen Fan. Against the ¡°current,¡± he walked toward the corpse king.

    Chen Fan felt somewhat helpless inside. The Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s cultivation was at the first-level Yuanfu realm and a tad stronger than Wang Fuchen.

    If he had known things would turn out like this, he wouldn¡¯t have waited three days in the first ce. He would have directlye to the forbiddennd, killed the corpse king, and taken the Buddhist Bone Relic.

    ¡°Who¡¯s the fearless one?¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King halted its step.

    It did not anticipate someone daring to insult it at this critical moment. Its corpse qi churned violently, expressing its anger.

    ¡°You? A measly eighth-level Qigong ant, you dare to call me a mere corpse! Good, very good. I won¡¯t refine you into an ancient corpse ve. I shall slowly devour your flesh and blood by the mouthful!¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King ground its teeth intentionally, producing a shudder-inducing noise.

    The people trembling under the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s powerful aura were stunned to see a brat with eighth-level cultivation provoking the formidable entity.

    Was this guy tired of living?

    Could he not see those Qi Grandmasters kneeling, kowtowing, and begging for mercy?

 Chapter 143 - Battling the Corpse King

    <h4>Chapter 143 - Battling the Corpse King</h4>

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King roared furiously, unleashing a mass of ck corpse qi that converged into a ck corpse spear in its palm. Its aura brutal, it darted toward Chen Fan, tearing through the air with a rumble.

    Facing a Yuanfu realm expert, Chen Fan didn¡¯t dare to take the attack lightly.

    He swiftly activated his cultivation, unleashing his godly strength in a powerful punch. The air exploded, creating aftershocks that bewildered the crowd, their vision filled with stars.

    With a loud boom, the ck corpse spear crumbled.

    The formidable momentum carried the punch forward,nding directly on the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    <i>Zhhh...</i>

    The ferocious punch broke through the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s protective corpse qi and violently struck its Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Halos burst from the suit, producing a ringing sound reminiscent of arge copper bell, blocking Chen Fan''s punch.

    This Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit was a rare treasure with very tough defenses.

    Although the punch failed to destroy the Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit, the Thousand Year Corpse King was pushed back. Its sinister eyes widened in shock, staring at Chen Fan. ¡°What martial art is this? You¡¯re not an eighth-level Qigong. You¡¯re a Qi Grandmaster, but your strength resembles a first-level Yuanfu expert. Who exactly are you?!¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Fan harrumphed coldly, his gaze fixed on the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit.

    The garment had proved its worth by blocking his full-force punch with the Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡ªit was a treasure.

    This unexpected turn of events could y into his hands. Not only could he get the Buddhist Bone Relic, but he could also obtain a rare Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit.

    ¡°Brat, everyone must call you a genius. Sadly, a genius will perish here today," dered the Thousand Year Corpse King with an eerie smile, revealing two fangs. ¡°Your qi and blood are robust. It¡¯s no wonder yourbat strength is so high.

    ¡°That¡¯s fine, too. After I kill you and suck all your life essence dry, I¡¯ll refine you into a jiangshi general, obtaining your cultivation technique. Believe me, being my jiangshi is actually not bad.¡±

    ¡°Is that right?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm suddenly shook. A flood of primeval qi rushed out, transforming into a spear.

    His aura surged and boiled, unleashing his physique¡¯s tremendous strength, getting ready for a thrilling battle.

    ¡°A mere corpse king like you dares to bring about a cmity. I¡¯ll thoroughly exterminate you today and return peace to Zhuxian Town!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone. He roared and stabbed with his spear, his qi swallowing mountains and rivers.

    ¡°Die for me.¡±

    The primeval qi spear darted through the air with a momentum that could y immortals and exterminate demons, attacking unpredictably and with infinite profoundness.

    The long spear moved through the void, appearing alien to this world and space. It seemed like an object from an unknown parallel time and ce.

    With the supernatural beings¡¯ wailing, his spear shed, reaching the corpse king¡¯s throat.

    The Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s protective corpse qi was as flimsy and weak as paper under the spear¡¯s attack.

    ¡°Spirits Return!¡±

    The Corpse King, startled, conjured a scepter with a red gem with a flip of its hand. A scorching red light shot from the gem, colliding with the spear.

    The spear stabbed at the red light and immediately started dissolving.

    Chen Fan stepped forward, shing his primeval qi spear with the gemstone scepter.

    A resounding ng echoed. Chen Fan didn¡¯t move an inch but forced the Thousand Year Corpse King back, making its enveloping corpse qi explode as it stumbled.

    After reforging his flesh with dragon blood and advancing to the seventhyer of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡ªthe Body Strengthening realm¡ªChen Fan could even move mountains and split seas with his physical strength.

    ¡°So strong! He actually forced the Thousand Year Corpse King back.¡±

    ¡°God, is he really just a Qi Grandmaster? I can¡¯t believe this!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it either! A Qi Grandmaster shaking up a Yuanfu realm expert? You must be kidding!¡±

    ¡°But he is indeed enveloped in... primeval qi.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King withdrew its aura, relieving Zhu Yuanqing and the others of the heavy pressure. They retreated from the valley, witnessing Chen Fan''s astounding battle against the Corpse King in astonishment.

    They had just narrowly escaped from the gates of hell¡ªa peril brought about by the Thousand Year Corpse King luring people to break its suppression.

    If not for Chen Fan''s interference, these people would have already been refined into ancient corpse ves by the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    After pushing back the Thousand Year Corpse King, Chen Fan turned into a blur. His qi spear created countless afterimages, enveloping the skies and trapping the Thousand Year Corpse King.

    He had executed his strongest attack like a storm¡ªswift and fierce, trying topletely exterminate this Yuanfu realm expert quickly to prevent it from causing harm to the world.

    Despite the threat, the possibility of the Corpse King escaping its confines still lingered.

    Moreover, if Chen Fan obtained this Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s corpse core, he could very likely also be a Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Ahhh, brat, you¡¯ve really angered me, you know that? I¡¯m furious!¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King sparked from Chen Fan''s relentless assault, saved only by the durability of its Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit.

    ¡°Heavenly Corpse Strike, Shattering the Universe.¡±

    Amid Chen Fan''s onught, a corpse core emerged from the Corpse King''s brow, aze with primeval force mes. Transforming into a corpse light, itunched its fiercest strike at Chen Fan.

    The powerful attack was before Chen Fan¡¯s chest instantly.

    Chen Fan, employing his cultivation to the limit, channeled his primeval qi to form a robust protective barrier.

    That corpse qi attacknded on Chen Fan like it was smashing into a huge mountain.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan counterattacked with his spear and stabbed it into the Golden-Threaded Jade Burial Suit. Although he couldn¡¯t tear it apart, the terrifying force passed through it.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable scream echoed as the Thousand Year Corpse King staggered, crashing heavily against the cliff wall.

    Seizing the opportunity, Chen Fan gathered his berserk primeval qi. With a palm strike, he forced the Corpse King to the ground, shattering its eyes and causing cracks to spread across its body.

    Pitch-ck corpse blood spewed out of it as if the corpse king had been torn to pieces and was barely holding on together.

    ¡°You...¡±

    The Thousand Year Corpse King trembled, seemingly unable to ept that a Qi Grandmaster had injured it to this extent.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t expect this, did you? It¡¯s not like I¡¯ve never killed a Yuanfu realm practitioner before. If it weren¡¯t for the tortoiseshell you¡¯re wearing, I would have gotten rid of you long ago. You wouldn¡¯t have lived this long. Now, I¡¯ll be sending you on your way,¡± Chen Fan dered as he rushed forward.

    Throwing out another palm strike, he struck the Thousand Year Corpse King¡¯s head. Its body immediately exploded, and a white bone corpse core came flying out.

 Chapter 144 - Xuanyang City

    <h4>Chapter 144 - Xuanyang City</h4>

    The white bone corpse core, fist-sized, bore seven orifices; it seemed like it was about to gain sentience.

    Chen Fan could sense the powerful energy in the corpse king¡¯s core¡ªa treasure of immeasurable value.

    Yet, Chen Fan''s true windfally in the Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing and gemstone scepter, both rare treasures.

    Chen Fan put away the Buddhist Bone Relic and walked toward the exit.

    Zhu Yuanqing and hispanions, faces still awash with shock, made way for him.

    The awe lingered as they processed the fact that Chen Fan, a mere Qi Grandmaster, had killed the formidable Thousand Year Corpse King. It was a feat even their ancestor had failed to achieve, only managing to suppress the corpse king at the cost of his life.

    Now, this long-standing menace had been eradicated by Chen Fan.

    As Chen Fan disappeared from view, the onlookers snapped back to reality. They hurried into the valley, where only shattered bones of the Thousand Year Corpse King remained.

    ¡°It¡¯s dead. It¡¯s really... dead!¡±

    ¡°Who exactly was that young man? A Qi Grandmaster overwhelmed and killed the corpse king? Why have I never heard of such a character before?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s a monster. He must be a genius disciple of some sect. A Qi Grandmaster has defied the heavens and killed a Yuanfu realm expert. If news of this spread, I¡¯m afraid the entire Great Chu Empire will be shaken.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too bad that he took the Buddhist Bone Relic away, not to mention the Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing and the gemstone scepter. These are all treasures that are worth a fortune.¡±

    ¡°Stop feeling pity. We would have all died if not for him. Our lives are the most important, not the Buddhist Bone Relic or the Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Although we couldn¡¯t get any treasures, being able to keep our lives intact is our greatest fortune.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everybody talked over each other, lingering fear still visible on their faces.

    Greed made people go crazy and lose their rationality. Every one of them had nearly lost their lives here.

    Zhu Yuanqing, Zhu Xiaolong, and Zhu Xiaohu¡¯s eyes shone before letting out helpless sighs. ¡°It¡¯s heaven¡¯s will. Forget it. Although he took our old ancestor¡¯s Buddhist Bone Relic, he also removed a great threat to our Zhu n. We can peacefully develop in Zhuxian Town in the future.¡±

    ......

    After returning to the inn, Chen Fan examined the Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing and the gemstone scepter.

    ¡°That Thousand Year Corpse King must have had an extraordinary status while alive. Maybe a monarch, a prince, or a noble?¡± Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, mumbling to himself.

    The Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing was an Innate Golden Armor forged from a material known as Innate Golden Jade.

    It was nearly unbreakable but light as cotton and could protect a corpse from rotting.

    If someone was buried wearing one, the corpse would automatically absorb the primeval qi of heaven and earth. They would transform into a ferocious jiangshi, preserving their will from when they were still alive.

    It exined how the ancient corpse became a Thousand Year Corpse King. Most of the credit went to its Innate Golden Armor.

    ¡°This red gemstone...¡±

    Chen Fan''s pupils contracted suddenly, and he eximed, "It''s a Sun Stone!"

    The Sun Stone, a rumored crystal born of fiery mes that fell from the sun, was said to contain powerful energy and serve various functions.

    For practitioners of fire-attributed cultivation techniques, obtaining a Sun Stone could significantly enhance their cultivation.

    ¡°I remember Father practices a fire-attributed cultivation technique. As long as his primeval vessel is restored and infused with the sun¡¯s essence from the stone, his cultivation will rise explosively!¡±

    A smile spread across Chen Fan¡¯s face.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give this Innate Golden Armor to Grandfather and the Sun Stone to Father," he decided, deeming these treasures more beneficial in their hands than his own.

    His physique¡¯s toughness made his defense even better than the Innate Golden Armor.

    His grandfather, Chen Tianxiong, was a Qi Grandmaster. If he put on this Innate Golden Armor, he could be among the strongest of all Qi Grandmasters.

    Although Chen Fan could absorb and refine the energy in the Sun Stone, it would be more useful if his father, Chen Zhengqing, used it instead.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t expect toe across such a fortune while passing through a town.

    With him obtaining the Buddhist Bone Relic, there was a possibility of healing Chen Zhengqing¡¯s injuries, and he even obtained two rare treasures, the Innate Golden Armor and the Sun Stone.

    ......

    As the year''s end approached, Xuanyang City became livelier than usual.

    Numerous individuals who had ventured beyond to make a living hurried back to reunite with their families and share moments of joy.

    In the harsh realm of martial artists, uncertainty loomed, and the possibility of losing one''s life over trivial matters at any time and ce was ever-present.

    Without enough strength to protect themselves, they were even lower than ants in this unforgiving world.

    This vulnerability was especially palpable for those martial artists struggling to earn a living and support their families. Their lives hung by a thread, uncertain of what the next day might bring.

    Chen Fan entered Xuanyang City riding his Golden Horned Horse, surveying the familiar yet changed surroundings. The streets retained their essence, but changes in some shops marked the passage of three years.

    After three days of travel, Chen Fan¡¯s face looked a little weary. The Golden Horned Horse he was riding was also fatigued. When he entered the city, he immediately drew the attention of many people.

    Golden Horned Horses were high-quality horses, beyond the means of ordinary families.

    ¡°Could he be a returning young master from a prestigious martial n?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s handsome and gives off an extraordinary air. He must be from one of our city¡¯s prestigious martial ns.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby people discussed among themselves. Although they were whispering, their voices entered Chen Fan¡¯s ear.

    He smiled on the inside.

    His once youthful features had matured, and the contours of his face now exuded a subtle firmness.

    The recognizable youth from three years ago had transformed, making him less identifiable as a young master from the Chen n.

    ¡°Giddy up.¡±

    Chen Fan squeezed the horse¡¯s tummy with his leg. The Golden Horned Horse broke into a slow jog on the streets of Xuanyang City.

    ¡°Hmm, he looks a little familiar. Let me think... ah, I remember now, isn¡¯t he the Chen n¡¯s young master, Chen Fan!?¡±

    An old man sitting in front of a store basking in the sun saw Chen Fan riding past on a horse. After thinking for a bit, he couldn¡¯t help but p his knee and exim.

    Returning to Xuanyang City filled Chen Fan with spirit.

    Familiarity enveloped him, heightening his eagerness to reunite with his father and grandfather at the Chen n''s residence.

    ¡°Haha! Chen Qingqing, you will feel like you''re floating in pleasure every day if you follow this young master.¡±

    ¡°Go away!¡±

    ¡°Damn, you little bitch. I¡¯m giving face to you here. It¡¯s your good fortune that I took a fancy to you.¡±

    Chen Fan, drawn by the disturbance, guided his horse closer.

    Not far ahead, three youths were surrounding a youngdy in blue.

    This blue-clotheddy had a clear appearance. Her skin was fair, and her attitude was graceful. Simply put, she was gorgeous.

    Meanwhile, among those three youths, the group leader seemed to be seventeen or eighteen, hisplexion slightly pale, like he had some underlying illness. He leered at her with a malicious intent that made her visibly ufortable.

    The blue-clothed youngdy appeared terrified, but the trio had surrounded her, so she couldn¡¯t escape.

 Chapter 145 - Chen Clanâ€™s People are Not to be Bullied

    <h4>Chapter 145 - Chen n¡¯s People are Not to be Bullied</h4>

    ¡°Chen Qingqing...¡±

    Riding the Golden Horned Horse, Chen Fan saw the unfolding events ahead and listened to their fight.

    As he focused his gaze, a cold light shed in his eyes. <i>How dare they bully my Chen n¡¯s people in broad daylight!</i>

    Chen Qingqing was a descendant of the Chen n.

    ¡°Hehe! Let¡¯s see where you can run off to. Come on,e into this young master¡¯s arms obediently. I will take good care of you.¡±

    The sickly youthughed perversely, reaching out to grab Chen Qingqing''s hand.

    ¡°Hold it right there!¡±

    Suddenly, a cold shout resonated in the area.

    ¡°Freaking hell, which blind dog dares to stick their nose into this young master¡¯s matters? Come out and show yourself to me. You must be tired of living!¡± sneered the sickly youth, turning to look.

    ¡°Oh? A Golden Horned Horse. Good stuff. I like it. Brat, did you call me out? Good, very good. No one dares to stick their nose into my matters in Xuanyang City. Just take a look around.¡±

    The sickly youth pointed at the surrounding people.

    Wherever his gaze fell, people quickly lowered their heads in fear and stepped back. The sickly youth smiledcently, looked at Chen Fan again, andughed coldly.

    ¡°You see that? You dare tell me to stop. How daring of you! Since it''s your first offense and I''m kind, I will give you a way out. Leave behind your Golden Horned Horse, kneel and kowtow to me a hundred times, and call me grandfather a hundred times. If not...¡±

    The sickly youth¡¯s expression turned vicious, a cold light shining from his eyes as he dered, ¡°You won¡¯t have a chance to regret itter!¡±

    Ignoring the youth''s arrogance, Chen Fan told the youngdy, ¡°Come here, Qingqing.¡±

    Though not too familiar with her, Chen Qingqing and he had yed together in their youth.

    If a Chen n descended was being bullied outside, he naturally wouldn¡¯t watch and do nothing.

    Quickly hiding behind Chen Fan, Chen Qingqing peeked out, her eyes lighting up. She asked carefully, ¡°You are... Big Brother Chen Fan?¡±

    Grinning, Chen Fan replied, ¡°What? Did I change so much you can''t recognize me?¡±

    ¡°Ah! It¡¯s really you, Big Brother Chen Fan!¡± Chen Qingqing immediately eximed, shocked and excited, ¡°You haven¡¯t returned in three years; you¡¯ve changed so much. I thought you looked familiar, but I wasn¡¯t sure.¡±

    ¡°Right. Three years away, and now some scoundrel dares to bully our Chen n people in broad daylight!¡± A cold smile appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s lips.

    "I was wondering who this is. It''s actually Chen Fan," mocked Tan Yunbao, sizing up Chen Fan. "Heard you were doing ''pretty well'' in the Spring Autumn Sect, earning the title of martial trash. Truly amazing.

    ¡°Is your dantian finally open? Did you advance to the first level? Is that why you triumphantly returned home to deliver the good news?¡± asked the sickly youth, Tan Yunbao, sarcastically.

    Xuanyang City had three major martial ns: Chen n, Tan n, and Liu n.

    The Chen n''s roots in Xuanyang City were rtively shallow, only a few decades old. In contrast, the Tan n and Liu n, the city''s oldest martial ns, boasted over a hundred years of heritage.

    As the Chen n rose to prominence, the Tan and Liu ns, the established powers, couldn''t resist meddling with them.

    Chen Fan''s father and grandfather, both Qi Grandmasters, shielded the Chen n from direct harm, allowing them to flourish and stand on equal footing with the two major ns.

    Nevertheless, conflicts arose regrly among the three ns, primarily fueled bypetition for resources crucial to martial arts cultivation.

    In the limited sphere of Xuanyang City, where resources were finite, the Tan and Liu ns resented the Chen n''s growing presence.

    However, being veteran martial ns of Xuanyang City, they were powerful.

    Tan Yunbao, the Third Young Master of the Tan n, earned notoriety throughout Xuanyang City for his oppressive behavior and numerous heinous acts, all while enjoying the backing of the Tan n. Countless young and beautiful women fell victim to his abuses.

    ¡°A martial trash like you dares to stick your hand into my business. You must be tired of living!¡± Tan Yunbao''s expression twisted into a ferocious look.

    Everyone knew the Chen n had produced a useless young master, Chen Fan. Born with iron-like dantian and blocked meridians, he was a martial waste.

    Chen Zhengqing had used his connections to send him to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°It really is Chen Fan. He has changed a lot. I almost couldn¡¯t recognize him.¡±

    ¡°I heard his dantian and meridians turned him into a martial trash. His father had to use backroom politics to get him into a sect. He hasn¡¯t returned in three years. Is he really back because he advanced to the first level like Tan Yunbao said? He came back to report the good news?¡±

    ¡°If that really is the case, I think the Chen n would surely set up a huge banquet to celebrate for three days and three nights.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd gossiped among themselves.

    ¡°You said I¡¯m trash?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, carrying a hint of murderous qi.

    ¡°Am I wrong? Do you think you can get rid of the title after spending three years to advance to the first level of the Qigong realm?¡±

    Tan Yunbao said disdainfully, ¡°I¡¯ll give you two choices. One, hand over Chen Qingqing to me, then kneel and kowtow to me, admitting your mistakes. Because you are the Chen n¡¯s young master, call me grandfather three times, and I¡¯ll let you off. Two, I break all your limbs and take Chen Qingqing away.¡±

    Tan Yunbao was determined to have his way with Chen Qingqing today. He had long coveted her beauty and wouldn''t let this opportunity slip through his fingers.

    Despite her status as a Chen n descendant, Chen Qingqing belonged to the branch family, and her parents held little influence. He wouldn''t get into serious trouble even if he took Chen Qingqing by force.

    ¡°Kowtow and admit my mistake? Call you ¡®grandfather¡¯ three times?¡±

    Killing intent in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes surged.

    Tan Yunbao''s arrogance had reached a point where he disregarded thew.

    Truthfully speaking, Chen Fan felt that he would only dirty his hands by killing a scoundrel like Tan Yunbao. Yet, Tan Yunbao¡¯s arrogance kept fueling his anger.

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan, just move aside. I¡¯ll go with him.¡± Chen Qingqing suddenly stepped forward, determination on her face.

    She knew Chen Fan¡¯s situation well and understood he hadn¡¯t visited home in three years due to shame.

    Since he hade home this year, it likely had something to do with his cultivation.

    However, with his iron-like dantian and blocked meridians, even if he made a breakthrough, he likely would only be at the first level, as Tan Yunbao had said. It wasn¡¯t much different from her.

    Facing Tan Yunbao, Chen Fan was no match for him at all.

    ¡°Stop right there, Qingqing!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly. ¡°Our Chen n¡¯s people are not to be bullied. A piece of shit like Tan Yunbao wants me to hand you over? It won¡¯t happen even if he calls his useless father over!¡±

    Chen Fan''s words resonated like thunder, leaving the crowd stunned. Their faces paled, not due to surprise at Chen Fan''s strength but because of his "extremely arrogant" words.

    Tun Yunbao, a piece of shit?

    Tan Yunbao¡¯s father, the Patriarch Tan Feng, useless?

    Chen Fan¡¯s words nearly scared them to their deaths!

    Was Chen Fan out of his mind? To speak so boldly!

    Did he really think Tan Yunbao didn¡¯t dare to cripple him?

    The crowd''s terrified gaze shifted to Tan Yunbao, anticipating the eruption of his simmering anger. They knew that his mounting fury was on the brink of exploding.

 Chapter 146 - Wasted

    <h4>Chapter 146 - Wasted</h4>

    Sure enough.

    Tan Yunbao, his rage uncontained, bellowed, ¡°Trash, you dare insult me! You insulted my father and my n! You¡¯re courting death; even your title as the Chen n¡¯s young master won¡¯t save you, you know that?¡±

    ¡°Insult you? Insult your Tan n?¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled coldly, his face full of contempt. ¡°Are you worthy? Is even your Tan n worthy?¡±

    "Damn it! You''re courting death!" Tan Yunbao seethed.

    This situation was a departure from his usual role of humiliating others.

    This time, he found himself on the receiving end, insulted in front of a crowd.

    ¡°You two, cripple his limbs, bring him to our n, and have his fathere to our Tan n to offer apologies and take him back! You''ve insulted our Tan n, so you must pay an unimaginable price!¡± roared Tan Yunbao fiercely with an ugly expression.

    ¡°Yes, Third Young Master!¡± answered the two attendants beside him and darted toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Brat, thinking you can offend our Third Young Master without consequences? Today, you''ll taste my Splitting Tendons Interlocking Bones. We''ve never crippled a young master before¡ªyou''re the first. Consider it an honor.¡±

    The two attendants approached Chen Fan with malicious smiles, their necks and limbs twisted to give them an inhuman appearance.

    ¡°It¡¯s over. Chen n¡¯s Young Master is about to get crippled as soon as he returned. How pitiful.¡±

    ¡°They still want Chen Zhengqing to apologize and bring Chen Fan back from their n. They¡¯re nning on humiliating the Chen n ruthlessly.¡±

    ¡°Now that the Tan and Liu ns are joined by marriage and are jointly targeting the Chen n, they won¡¯t have an easy time living here. Even if Chen Fan gets crippled, I¡¯m afraid the Chen n will have to tolerate it.¡±

    ¡°I know, right! The Chen n is on the verge of being swallowed whole by the Tan and Liu ns. Otherwise, Tan Yunbao wouldn¡¯t have been arrogant enough to bully Chen n¡¯s people on the streets.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd gossiped among themselves at the sight of this scene.

    ¡°You brat, break!¡±

    The attendants suddenly struck, their fingers curled into eagle-like hooks capable of easily snapping bones.

    ¡°Watch out, Big Brother Chen Fan!¡±

    Chen Qingqing, frightened, blocked in front of Chen Fan, disregarding her own safety. However, an unknown force suddenly pulled her aside.

    A gust of wind followed, and the vicious attendants flew back, crashing onto the ground. Twitching, they vomitedrge mouthfuls of blood, and following a jerk, they died.

    ¡°Tan Yunbao, you think you can break my limbs with just these two dogs?¡± Chen Fan smirked coldly, a pressure enveloping Tan Yunbao.

    Tan Yunbao stood in stunned silence.

    Being third-level experts, his attendants were far from weak. However, Chen Fan had dealt with both of them with one move.

    ¡°Ah, you little bastard, you dare kill my people!¡± Tan Yunbao shouted aggressively, snapping out of his initial stupor.

    ¡°No way, he killed them with one move!¡±

    ¡°Is he really only at the first level of the Qigong realm?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but the fact about his dantian and meridians is undisputed.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd, as if discovering a new continent, was astonished.

    Chen Fan had actually killed two third-level experts easily.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°Not only do I dare to kill your people, I even dare to kill you. Can you believe it?¡±

    ¡°You...¡±

    Tan Yunbao''s expression stiffened at Chen Fan''s words, and he asked coldly, ¡°What¡¯s your cultivation level?"

    ¡°The third level of the Qigong realm. Is there a problem?¡± Chen Fan said with a vague smile, revealing the aura of his cultivation.

    ¡°It¡¯s really the third level!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder he came back this year. It turns out he has advanced to the third level.¡±

    The nearby crowd shared the shock.

    ¡°Hmph, no wonder you dare act so arrogantly! So, you are a third-level expert.¡±

    After finding out Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level, Tan Yunbao felt more confident. His expression turned vicious again. "You dare kill my people with just this bit of strength? Don¡¯t you know I¡¯m at the fourth level?!¡±

    Tan Yunbao activated his cultivation. His aura erupted violently, producing a sweeping gale.

    ¡°Fourth level? So what?¡±

    Instead of being afraid, Chen Fan wore a smile.

    ¡°So what?¡±

    As he bared his teeth, Tan Yunbao¡¯s appearance sent chills into the hearts of the onlookers. ¡°Today, I will break your limbs and cripple your cultivation, turning you into real trash.¡±

    ¡°Haah!¡±

    Tan Yunbao violently struck. With his fourth-level cultivation, he wasn''t considered a weakling in a grade-3 city like Xuanyang City; he was enough to be regarded as an expert.

    His punch ripped through the air like a cannonball sting toward Chen Fan, the strong wind raging.

    Standing next to him, Chen Qingqing¡¯splexion paled under the strong wind, a look of despair in her eyes.

    With only first-level cultivation, she could feel her legs turn into jelly, unable to muster any strength.

    While Chen Fan''s third-level cultivation was surprising, he was still no match for a fourth-level Qigong martial artist like Tan Yunbao.

    ¡°He¡¯s finished. Chen Fan ispletely done for. Yunbao is about to cripple the cultivation he worked so hard to gain.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! So, what if he took out his attendant with one move? He is still no match for a fourth-level cultivator.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Yet, Chen Fan easily caught Tan Yunbao''s fist.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Tan Yunbao was instantly shocked, looking horrified.

    ¡°A mere fourth-level ant dares to act brazenly in front of me. Very well, I¡¯ll deal with you today and get rid of evil for the people. I¡¯ll have you do nothing but lie in bed and wait for your death for the rest of your life!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°Damn it, let go of me!¡±

    Tan Yunbao seethed with fury. His arm trembled, releasing primeval qi to shake Chen Fan off. However, Chen Fan exerted a slight force, and Tan Yunbao''s qi crumbled like a cookie.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A breaking noise echoed as Chen Fan directly crushed Tan Yunbao''s hand, eliciting a heart-wrenching scream from him.

    ¡°No one can save you today even if you scream until your throat busts!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, looking like a vicious devil, sending chills into the crowd''s hearts.

    <i>Snap! Snap! Snap!</i>

    A series of bone-fracturing noises rang out as Chen Fan effortlessly crippled all four of Tan Yunbao''s limbs.

    ¡°How is it? Weren¡¯t you really fond of crippling others¡¯ limbs and cultivation? It must feel good!¡± Chen Fanughed like the devil, about to deal the final blow to cripple Tan Yunbao¡¯s cultivation.

    ¡°Stop right there!¡±

    An icy voice abruptly interrupted the scene.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Despite themand, Chen Fan didn''t halt. His palm descended, unleashing a terrifying force into Tan Yunbao''s dantian.

    Tan Yunbao''s dantian was obliterated, beyond even the restorative powers of Buddha.

    Chen Fan finally raised his head. He looked at the frosty purple-dresseddy approaching and smiled. "I''m sorry; you arrived toote."

 Chapter 147 â€“ Changes

    <h4>Chapter 147 ¨C Changes</h4>

    Ady of great beauty in a purple dress, her long hair tied up, had just arrived.

    Her current demeanor contradicted her appearance, as a frosty expression adorned her face, and icy killing intent surged in her eyes.

    She was Liu Ruyan, the Young Miss of the Liu n.

    Tan Yunbaoy sprawled on the ground. Upon noticing her, he immediately howled miserably, ¡°Sister-inw, you have to avenge me! Kill this little bastard¡ªno, cripple him. I want to raise him like a pet in a cage and ruthlessly whip him every day!¡±

    ¡°Rest assured, Yunbao, I won¡¯t let this son of a bitch go!¡±

    Liu Ruyan''s words matched her vicious expression, making her look like a vile woman. She red at Chen Fan with an icy gaze and said, ¡°Little bastard, didn¡¯t you hear me telling you to stop?

    ¡°Had you stayed your hand and not crippled Yunbao¡¯s cultivation, I could have let you live. But now, even if you¡¯re that invalid Chen Zhengqing¡¯s son, you...¡±

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Before Liu Ruyan could finish her sentence, a resounding p cut through the air, making her spew blood and see stars.

    ¡°You... you dare hit me!¡±

    Liu Ruyan was stunned, looking at Chen Fan in disbelief.

    How dare he!

    ¡°Hit you? You dare insult my father. Believe it or not, I¡¯ll kill you right now!¡±

    Stepping forward, Chen Fan emanated a powerful aura that silenced Liu Ruyan, making her retract the threats already on her tongue.

    Soon, she regained herposure. Taking two steps back, she shrieked, ¡°Damn it! You little bastard, you deserve to die! You dare hit me! You must be tired of living! You guys, go, kill him!¡±

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    The several fierce-looking individuals apanying Liu Ruyan rushed forward.

    Yet, in the blink of an eye, they were all sent flying back, vomiting blood as they crashed onto the ground with agonizing howls.

    Liu Ruyan was dumbfounded.

    Tan Yunbao stopped hooting and looked dumbfounded.

    Chen Qingqing was stunned.

    The onlookers stood with mouths agape.

    ¡°If you want revenge,e find me at Chen n anytime!¡± Chen Fan dered with a cold gaze, leading the Golden Horned Horse and pulling the dazed Chen Qingqing away with determined strides.

    ¡°Ah, damn it, you damned little bastard, just you wait! Just wait! The Chen n can¡¯t protect you; you will surely die! No one in heaven or earth can save you!¡± Liu Ruyan regained her senses and shrieked hysterically.

    ¡°This... this...¡±

    ¡°Is he really the trash young master of the Chen n?¡±

    ¡°Heavens, that is too powerful! Liu Ruyan¡¯s attendants are all at the fifth level. Is he at the... sixth level?¡±

    ¡°But didn¡¯t he say he is at the third level?¡±

    ¡°You believe that? Can a third-level martial artist deal with fourth and fifth-level attendants with just a few punches and kicks?¡±

    ¡°Although Chen Fan is powerful, he crippled Tan Yunbao and pped Liu Ruyan. There¡¯s no way their ns will let this go. I fear they''ll exploit this incident to stir trouble for the Chen n.¡±

    ¡°Haaa, young people do things too recklessly, ignoring the consequences. The Chen n may have topensate with half of their businesses, significantly weakening them.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Nearby, the crowd engaged in whispered gossip as if foreseeing an impending storm.

    ......

    ¡°Little girl, why do you keep staring at me? Are there flowers on my face?¡± Chen Fan joked lightly.

    Looking bashful, Chen Qingqing said, ¡°You¡¯re the little girl. I¡¯m already sixteen years old. I¡¯m not little anymore.¡±

    ¡°Really, you¡¯re all grown up already.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    Chen Qingqing stuck out her tongue; soon, a worried expression appeared on her face. ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan, you crippled Tan Yunbao and pped Liu Ruyan. The Tan and Liu ns will definitelye and demand to have you punished.¡±

    Chen Fan said, unconcerned, ¡°It¡¯s fine. That¡¯s the price they have to pay for bullying our Chen n¡¯s people. No need to be scared.¡±

    ¡°But...¡±

    ¡°No buts. Qingqing, I haven¡¯t been home in three years. Tell me about the situation in the n and Xuanyang City,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Chen Qingqing nodded and said, ¡°A year ago, the Grand Elder broke through to the Qi Grandmaster realm, and his strength rose tremendously. Many elders joined his side. His grandson, Chen Tao, is our Chen n¡¯s number one genius, already at the sixth level. So, the Grand Elder is always thinking of a way to have the Patriarch pass on the position of sessor to Chen Tao...¡±

    ¡°Grand Elder... is it that old fellow Chen Tianyin? It¡¯s really unexpected. He actually broke through to the Qi Grandmaster realm. How surprising.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°He¡¯s plotting for the position of Chen n¡¯s Young Patriarch? How bold of him, but since I¡¯m back, they can forget about it.

    ¡°I may forgive them this time if they continue to serve the n dutifully. If that old fellow has dissenting thoughts, don¡¯t me me for not showing mercy.¡±

    Chen Qingqing¡¯s heart trembled.

    Chen Tianyin, a Qi Grandmaster, was a formidable figure capable of turning Xuanyang City upside down, an existence revered by many. Yet, Chen Fan spoke of him as if he were no more significant than an ant.

    ¡°Right, Qingqing, why did Tan Yunbao address Liu Ruyan as sister-inw?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    Chen Qingqing answered, ¡°Because Liu Ruyan had be Tan Yunlong¡¯s fianc¨¦e.¡±

    ¡°Oh, Tan and Liu ns are joined by marriage.¡±

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrows in surprise.

    ¡°Also, Tan Yunlong also became a Qi Grandmaster half a year ago. Since the Grand Elder became a Qi Grandmaster a year ago, our Chen n has three Qi Grandmasters overseeing things and could suppress the Tan and Liu ns.

    ¡°However, Tan Yunlong and Liu Rulong became Qi Grandmasters one after another. Now, the two major ns also have three Qi Grandmasters each. With the two ns being joined by marriage, I¡¯m afraid they are nning to join forces to deal with our Chen n.¡±

    Chen Qingqing conveyed the current situation in Xuanyang City to Chen Fan. Unexpectedly, many huge changes had urred in the city.

    Tan Yunlong and Liu Rulong were the geniuses of the Tan and Liu ns. They were only twenty-five and twenty-six years old. Bing Qi Grandmasters at such a young age showcased their exceptional martial talent.

    The two ns joined by marriage had be one huge entity.

    <i>It is no wonder Tan Yunbao acted so arrogantly, brazenly bullying a member of our Chen n on the streets and trying to abduct them. It wasn¡¯t without reason.</i>

    Chen Fan smiled coldly inside.

    Crippling Tan Yunbao and striking Liu Ruyan ensured that the Tan and Liu ns wouldn¡¯t let the matter slide easily. They would undoubtedlye to the Chen n seeking retribution.

    Perhaps they would exploit the opportunity to obliterate the Chen n. After all, with the Tan and Liu ns¡¯bined strength, they boasted six Qi Grandmasters, while the Chen n had only three.

    However...

    <i>Hehe, I hope you people will know your ces. Otherwise, I don¡¯t mind letting your ns be history!¡± </i>An icy cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Given his current strength, facing six Qi Grandmasters or even ten at once was nothing.

    ......

    As one of the three strongest martial ns in Xuanyang City, Chen n¡¯s mansion was situated in the southeast of Xuanyang City, upying a vast area.

    The sprawling square in front of the mansion could amodate thousands of people.

    A squad of soldiers patrolled in front of the mansion, each wearing armor. They were at the fourth level and physically fit, with their captain at the fifth level of the Qigong realm.

    ¡°Stop right there!¡±

    Chen Fan and Chen Qingqing strolled through the square toward the mansion but were intercepted by the patrolling soldiers.

    ¡°Qingqing, who is he?¡± Captain Wang Tieshan recognized Chen Qingqing but not Chen Fan, prompting an immediate inquiry.

    Chen Fan smiled, saying, ¡°Why, Uncle Wang, you don¡¯t recognize me anymore?¡±

    ¡°You are...¡±

    Wang Tieshan observed Chen Fan and pped his forehead. Surprised, he said, ¡°Young Master, you are Young Master Chen Fan. You¡¯re back!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me. I¡¯m back.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    In his childhood, he often yed in this square, and Wang Tieshan had been his personal guard.

    Wang Tieshan said, ¡°Young Master, you¡¯ve changed so much over the past three years. You¡¯ve grown so much that I couldn¡¯t recognize you. With your return, I¡¯m sure Old Master and the others will be so happy.¡±

    ¡°Mhm, Uncle Wang, continue with your patrol. I¡¯ll go visit Grandfather and Father first.¡±

    After passing the Golden Horned Horse to Wang Tieshan, Chen Fan walked toward the mansion''s interior in high spirits.

 Chapter 148 - Making Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 148 - Making Trouble</h4>

    ¡°Look, that is...¡±

    ¡°Hmm? That young man looks so familiar, but who is he?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan strolled around the Chen n mansion, and as he passed, the servants eyed him curiously. Though he seemed familiar, they struggled to recall who he was.

    Unperturbed, he continued without acknowledging the inquisitive gazes. His destination was the courtyard where his father and grandfather resided.

    ¡°Grandfather.¡±

    Upon entering the courtyard, Chen Fan spotted his grandfather, Chen Tianxiong.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong turned his head to look and saw Chen Fan. He was momentarily stunned before joy lit up his face. ¡°Xiaofan, is that really you? You¡¯re finally willing toe home.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my fault, Grandfather, for not visiting you and Father in three years,¡± Chen Fan apologized.

    Chen Tianxiong said, ¡°Mmm, you¡¯ve grown up, Xiaofan, and taller too. You¡¯ve changed so much that I almost couldn¡¯t recognize you.¡±

    ¡°Grandfather, have you and Father been well?¡±

    ¡°Good, we¡¯re very good. Look, I¡¯m still healthy.¡± Chen Tianxiong smiled, patting his chest.

    Qi Grandmaster powerhouses could live over a hundred and twenty years. Chen Tianxiong, in his seventies, was still in his prime in the martial arts world.

    Chen Fan¡¯s insight was naturally extraordinary. His perception had improved, allowing him to sense the vigorous power of qi and blood inside Chen Tianxiong. There were no signs of deterioration; he was brimming with vitality.

    Martial artists defied the heavens, seeking longevity by seizing life from the heavens.

    While ordinary people considered living for a hundred years a long life, martial artists, nourished by the primeval qi of heaven and earth, rarely fell ill, leading to a naturally extended lifespan.

    The pursuit of immortality made the path of martial arts widely popr.

    Martial artists exhausted all means to reach higher realms, all in the quest for a longer life.

    The ancient saying held true: Consume qi, gain immortality.

    After reaching a god-like realm, they would live as long as the heavens. Since the heavens could never be destroyed, they would also never die.

    ¡°Grandfather, where¡¯s Father?¡± Chen Fan inquired, noticing Chen Zhengqing''s absence.

    Chen Tianxiong said, ¡°Your father is in closed-door cultivation. Come on, let¡¯s talk inside the house.¡±

    <i>Secluded cultivation?</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone as he walked.

    His father¡¯s primeval vessel was shattered, leading to a regression in cultivation level. He also had to suppress injuries periodically to prevent his cultivation from regressing continually, as he could end up bing a mere mortal otherwise.

    Heckedprehensive knowledge in the past, but given all that he knew now, he grasped the situation more effectively.

    <i>I¡¯m afraid Father¡¯s injuries will soon reach a limit. He''s been suppressing them for over a decade. Once it erupts, he could be a cripple with zero cultivation. </i>Chen Fan thought.

    This predicament resembled a flood breaching its dike¡ªthe more one tried to block it, the greater the loss when it eventually breached.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan had obtained the Buddhist Bone Relic, offering hope for his father''s recovery.

    ......

    Meanwhile, in the courtyard where Grand Elder Chen Tianyin resided:

    ¡°Big news, big news!¡± a youth eximed as he rushed into the courtyard.

    Chen Tianyin walked out of his room with a darkened expression, looking at the youth with a cold gaze. ¡°What news warrants such impudence? Show some manners!¡±

    ¡°Grand Elder, big news!¡± The youth ignored the scolding and continued, ¡°Chen Fan is back. Not only did he return, but he also crippled Tan Yunbao in front of everyone and even pped Liu Ruyan...¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Chen Tianyin''s aura momentarily spiraled out of control. He had lostposure but quickly regained it. His gaze was deep and hollow as he said, ¡°Tell me what happened in detail.¡±

    The youth quickly recounted the events.

    A strange light flickered in Chen Tianyin''s eyes. ¡°How astounding. That kid was born with an iron-like dantian, a martial trash. Yet, he managed to unprecedentedly cultivate qi, and it seems he has reached the fifth or the sixth level.

    ¡°Hoho, but the heavens are truly on my side! This kid crippled Tan Yunbao and even pped Liu Ruyan. The Tan and Liu ns definitely wouldn¡¯t let this matter go easily. I can push the wave, add to the billows, and hand this kid over. Then, the position of the future Chen n¡¯s patriarch will be my grandson¡¯s...¡±

    Chen Tianyin¡¯s eyes flickered with a grim light. He said, ¡°You did very well. This news came at the perfect time. Don¡¯t worry. You will get your benefits!¡±

    ¡°Many thanks to Grand Elder.¡± This youth¡¯s heart burst with joy.

    ¡°That kid should have gone to meet Chen Tianxiong. Hmph, I¡¯ll head over right now.¡± Chen Tianyin¡¯s eyes shone, and he walked out of the courtyard.

    Leading a group, Chen Tianyin arrived at Chen Tianxiong¡¯s courtyard and found Chen Fan having a casual conversation with his grandfather.

    Chen Tianxiong¡¯s expression sank when he noticed Chen Tianyin¡¯s group. He said coldly, ¡°What do you mean by this, Chen Tianyin?¡±

    Chen Tianyin nced at Chen Fan, then walked up to a seat by the side and sat down. He said peculiarly, ¡°Chen Tianxiong, looks like you still have no idea how big of a trouble this grandson of yours has caused and how big of a disaster he brought upon our Chen n!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong''s eyes narrowed. ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Ask him.¡± Chen Tianyin directed Chen Tianxiong toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Tianxiong turned his head to look at Chen Fan and asked, ¡°Xiaofan, what exactly happened?¡±

    Chen Fan took a sip of tea, put down the teacup unhurriedly, and swept his gaze across Chen Tianyin¡¯s group.

    <i>So, these people are Chen Tianyin¡¯s henchmen, huh?</i>

    He didn¡¯t expect Chen Tianyin¡¯s side to learn about what happened in the city so quickly. He had brought along a group like they were here to punish him. Their motive was obvious.

    After all, Chen Qingqing had already told him that Chen Tianyin had been trying to push his grandson, Chen Tao, to the n¡¯s young patriarch position.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly inside and said indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s nothing much. On my way back, I saw Tan Yunbao bullying our n¡¯s people. So, I took action and crippled him. It¡¯s no big deal. I didn¡¯t expect to cause rm to Grand Elder, making you bring your people here to ¡®punish me.¡¯¡±

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Chen Tianyin directly mmed his palm on the table. He shot up to his feet, looked at Chen Fan, and said, ¡°It¡¯s no big deal? Don¡¯t you know that this matter will likely give the two ns an excuse to attack our Chen n? Don¡¯t you know that your actions could push our Chen n into a situation of no return?¡±

    His voice gradually rose higher and higher, nearly shouting at the very end.

    Of course, he was doing this on purpose.

    Chen Fan scratched his ear, looking at Chen Tianyin with a dissatisfied expression. ¡°Why are you shouting so loudly? I¡¯m not deaf.¡±

    ¡°You...¡±

    Chen Tianyin felt like he was punching cotton, unable to get through to him. He was so vexed he could vomit blood.

    He immediately looked toward Chen Tianxiong and said, ¡°Look, Chen Tianxiong. This is what your precious grandson is like. Remember, he is our n¡¯s young patriarch.

    ¡°Just take a look for yourself. Does he even have any respect for us elders? Or our Chen n? He¡¯s pushing our Chen n into the fire pit!¡±

 Chapter 149 â€“ Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 149 ¨C Scheme</h4>

    ¡°Audacious! You dare raise your voice in front of Grandfather?!¡±

    Chen Fan smacked his palm on the table and stood up, his icy gaze fixated on Chen Tianyin.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Chen Tianyin couldn¡¯t resist taking two steps back under Chen Fan¡¯s sharp gaze.

    Nevertheless, his mes of anger immediately burned hotter. He didn¡¯t expect a little rascal like Chen Fan to dare rebuke him.

    Chen Fan''s eyes exuded coldness as he retorted, ¡°What do you mean, you! The representatives of the two ns haven''t even appeared, and yet you''vee here to demand my punishment. Are you our n¡¯s Grand Elder or someone from their ns?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re ndering me, how audacious!¡± Chen Tianyin seethed, but panic was evident in his eyes.

    <i>When did this brat¡¯s tongue be so sharp? He counterattacked and used me of being a spy of the two ns.</i>

    ¡°Me, ndering you? Then let me ask you, Chen Tianyin, if you aren¡¯t affiliated with those ns, why did you bring a group here to seek my punishment?¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°I¡ª¡±

    ¡°You shut up!¡± Chen Fan cut him off before he could retort. "No need for excuses. Do you think I''m unaware of the schemes you''re plotting?"

    ¡°You want to use this opportunity to cripple me. That way, your precious grandson can be the young patriarch of the Chen n. Am I wrong?¡±

    Surprisingly, Chen Tianyin calmed down at this point. He fixed a dark gaze on Chen Fan.

    Now that Chen Fan had unraveled their ns, pretense was unnecessary. They could use this opportunity to exert pressure on Chen Tianxiong.

    ¡°Hmph, you heard that, Chen Tianxiong. Tell me, how will you handle this matter?¡± Chen Tianyin shifted his gaze toward Chen Tianxiong.

    Chen Fan¡¯s glibness was useless now.

    Chen Tianxiong had no idea Chen Fan had crippled Tan Yunbao on his way home. He had undoubtedly caused a huge trouble.

    Still, he inquired, ¡°Xiaofan, tell us what happened in detail.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡±

    Chen Fan recounted in detail the incident.

    ¡°Hmph, Chen Fan, you crippled Tan Yunbao for someone so insignificant. Do you realize the cmity you¡¯ve brought upon our n? You use me of vying for the position of young patriarch for my grandson, but as the young patriarch, have you considered the consequences of your actions? Are you qualified to be our young patriarch?¡± Chen Tianyin said.

    ¡°Insignificant?¡± Chen Fan scoffed. ¡°Chen Tianyin, when did the descendants of our Chen n be insignificant in your eyes? Is this how our n''s Grand Elder behaves?

    ¡°Even if we ignore the matter of Tan Yunbao trying to capture our n member, he tried to break my limbs and humiliate me. Was I supposed to stand there and endure the humiliation? Is that how you wanted our n¡¯s young patriarch to act?¡±

    The statement left Chen Tianyin at a loss for words.

    ¡°What a sharp tongue, twisting words and forcing logic. Tan Yunbao was only scaring you. Would he really have acted on his words?¡± remarked a middle-aged man, stepping forward from behind Chen Tianyin. He was Chen Tianyin''s son, Chen Hai, with an eighth-level cultivation.

    ¡°Trying to scare me?¡±

    Chen Fanughed and pointed at Chen Hai. ¡°Step forward. I¡¯ll sh at you once. You¡¯re not allowed to retaliate. Tell me, will I act on my words?¡±

    ¡°Hmph, no matter how glib your tongue is, it doesn¡¯t change the fact that you¡¯vemitted a grave mistake!¡± Chen Hai harrumphed coldly and said, ¡°Old Patriarch, Chen Fan must exin this¡ª!¡±

    ¡°What exnation do you want? Let me hear it," interrupted someone with a cold voice.

    A middle-aged man walked in. He was tall and slender, bearing a powerful aura, and resembled Chen Fan.

    ¡°Zhengqing.¡±

    ¡°Father.¡±

    This person was none other than the current patriarch of Chen n, Chen Fan¡¯s father, Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Zhengqing smiled when he saw Chen Fan and said, ¡°No need to be scared, Xiaofan. You did the right thing. They dare bully our Chen n¡¯s descendants in broad daylight, showing no respect for our n. Crippling him was the right move!¡±

    ¡°Haha, Chen Zhengqing, you¡¯re going to protect this little bastard?¡± Chen Hai raised his voice when he saw Chen Zhengqing walking in front of Chen Fan to shield him.

    ¡°If my son is a little bastard, then am I the old bastard?¡± Chen Zhengqing said indifferently, ¡°Chen Hai, are you indirectly insulting me?

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Tianyin harrumphed coldly and said, ¡°You came at the right time, Chen Zhengqing. Those two ns will surely attack our Chen n because of your son. We will have to pay a huge sum forpensation. Your son caused such heavy losses for the n that not even death by a thousand cuts is enough to pay for his sins.

    ¡°You need to give an exnation to everyone. Chen Zhengqing, you failed to teach your son and are also partly responsible. You must resign from your position, and we¡¯ll re-elect a patriarch.¡±

    ¡°Oh? You want a new patriarch? So, you want the young patriarch position and the patriarch position.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing stood unmoving like a rock. ¡°Who will be the patriarch? Is your son Chen Hai going to take the position? Is he worthy?¡±

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing!¡± Chen Hai shouted furiously, and cold qi immediately erupted from him.

    Layers of ice crystals formed around him, flickering with light, his anger kindled by Chen Zhengqing''s contemptuous attitude.

    ¡°What, you want to fight me?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing stared at him with a sharp gaze, immediately melting away the surrounding ice.

    ¡°Enough!¡±

    Chen Tianyin shouted coldly. His Qi Grandmaster aura erupted, and he said, ¡°Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, it¡¯s a fact that Chen Fan crippled Tan Yunbao and pped Liu Ruyan.

    ¡°Now that the Tan and Liu ns are joined by marriage, pulling a single hair will move the whole body. If the two ns decide to make things difficult for us, our n will be in trouble. Do you want to see our Chen n¡¯s foundation ruined?

    ¡°I¡¯m here today not for the patriarch or young patriarch or whatever position. I am here for the future of our Chen n!¡± Chen Tianyin said righteously, making some of the elders who were originally on Chen Tianxiong¡¯s side nod to themselves.

    ¡°Hmph, then what should we do, in your opinion?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing harrumphed coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t bother opening your mouth if you¡¯re going to suggest disposing of my son.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine if we don¡¯t dispose of Chen Fan. Hear me out. First, the two ns will surely grab this opportunity to make a huge demand. We won¡¯t take out a single cent to pay for the n¡¯s losses this time. Your son caused this. You can¡¯t make everyone bear the burden. You have to think of a solution yourself.

    ¡°Second, you should resign as the n''s patriarch, Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Third, you must hand over your son and have him receive punishment in front of everyone to appease the two ns¡¯ anger.¡±

    Once Chen Zhengqing agreed to the conditions, Chen Tianyin, Chen Hai, and the others would be the ones in charge of making the decisions in the Chen n. If someone from them became the patriarch, the position of Chen n¡¯s young patriarch would also go to Chen Tao.

 Chapter 150 - Suppressing the Scoundrels

    <h4>Chapter 150 - Suppressing the Scoundrels</h4>

    An escting number of people were amassing in the courtyard. Upon hearing the news, many Chen n descendants hurriedly gathered, craning their necks to peer into the hall.

    ¡°Chen Fan didn¡¯te home for three years; when he did, he caused huge trouble!¡±

    ¡°How dare he? How dare he cripple Tan Yunbao and p Liu Ruyan? Does he not realize the disaster this will bring to the n?¡±

    ¡°Great. He handed Grand Elder¡¯s group the perfect excuse to force the patriarch to step down.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The people outside whispered among themselves, some growing resentful toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan...¡±

    Chen Qingqing was also in the crowd. She overheard themotion and became worried. However, determination soon reced her worry, and she went inside.

    ¡°Patriarch, Grand Elder, this matter is my fault. It has nothing to do with Big Brother Chen Fan. If you want to me somebody, then me me,¡± Chen Qingqing said after entering.

    ¡°Audacious! Who allowed you toe in here? This is no ce for you to speak!¡± Chen Hai¡¯s eyes turned cold. An imposing aura surged, striking Chen Qingqing and sending her flying. She soon crashed on the floor and vomited blood.

    Fearing that Chen Zhengqing and others might shift all me onto Chen Qingqing, he had acted swiftly.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t expect Chen Hai to immediatelyy his hand on Chen Qingqing. He vanished from his spot and rushed out with Chen Qingqing in his arms. ¡°Qingqing...¡±

    Chen Qingqing bled from her seven orifices, her breath feeble.

    As a first-level practitioner facing the aura attack of an eighth-level expert, she was utterly powerless.

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan... sor... sorry...¡± Chen Qingqing''s eyes dimmed, her voice faint as a mosquito.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Don¡¯t speak. Don¡¯t worry; nothing will happen to you. With me here, you won¡¯t die!¡±

    He quickly retrieved some healing pills and forced them down Chen Qingqing''s throat, ensuring she clung to life.

    Fortunately, Chen Qingqing didn¡¯t sumb immediately to Chen Hai¡¯s attack.

    After getting a servant to look after the fainted Chen Qingqing, Chen Fan slowly stood up, casting an icy gaze at Chen Tianyin, Chen Hai, and the others. ¡°Who wants my father¡¯s position? And who wants mine? Step out, all of you!¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong¡¯s expressions fell.

    ¡°No need to say anything, Father, Grandfather. I will handle this matter.¡± Chen Fan stopped Chen Zhengqing.

    He had no intention of wasting words on Chen Tianyin¡¯s group. Everything would be settled with strength.

    ¡°Little rascal, what do you mean by this?¡± Chen Hai shouted with malice.

    ¡°What do I mean?¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan walked toward Chen Hai.

    ¡°Xiaofan, this is not the time for you to put on a strong front. Come back.¡± Chen Zhengqing beckoned with his hand.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t stop. His voice rang as he said, ¡°Father, Grandfather, just watch. It¡¯s time to tidy up the Chen n a bit, or all kinds of monsters and freaks will dare to start causing trouble!¡±

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re too insolent!¡±

    Chen Hai erupted in anger at Chen Fan''s characterization. His aura red, and his palm shot toward Chen Fan''s head. ¡°I¡¯ll teach you a proper lesson before your father today. I¡¯ll let you know what it means to show respect!¡±

    ¡°Teach me a lesson? Are you worthy?¡±

    Facing Chen Hai¡¯s palm, Chen Fan struck out lightly with his fist. Immediately, a snapping sound rang out.

    Observers covered their eyes, assuming the bone-snapping noise hade from Chen Fan.

    ¡°Chen Hai, if you dare hurt my son, I¡¯ll never let¡ª¡±

    Chen Zhengqing abruptly stopped speaking as Chen Hai flew back, the table and chairs breaking into pieces upon impact.

    ¡°Ah, my hand, my hand!¡± Chen Hai fell on the floor, wailing in pain.

    Chen Fan had broken his entire arm, pulverizing every inch of his bones.

    Shock rippled through the hall''s upants. Even the onlookers outside were stunned.

    Chen Fan walked over, stepped on Chen Hai¡¯s face, and said coldly, ¡°You¡¯d best stop crying, or I¡¯ll kill you!¡±

    The air in the entire hall turned heavy. Chen Hai trembled, sensing the icy, murderous intent emanating from Chen Fan. He knew that Chen Fan would unquestionably follow through on his threat if he made any more noise.

    ¡°Dahai!¡± [1]

    Chen Tianyin finally came back to his senses.

    Seeing Chen Fan stepping on Chen Hai, he roared furiously, ¡°You little bastard, quickly let go of Dahai. He¡¯s your senior!¡±

    ¡°My senior? I don¡¯t acknowledge that.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression was icy. His indifferent gaze sent a shiver into Chen Tianyin¡¯s heart.

    ¡°You... insolent!¡±

    Chen Tianyin¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot from anger, and his aura went berserk, whipping up a strong wind inside the hall.

    No one anticipated that Chen Hai, an eighth-level expert, would have his arm crippled in a single move. Their pupils shrunk as they looked at the young man inside the hall.

    They used to think Chen Fan was, at most, a sixth-level expert, but the current situation suggested otherwise.

    To cripple Chen Hai in a single move, Chen Fan''s cultivation level had to be at the peak of the eighth level or at least that of a Qi Grandmaster.

    <i>Qi Grandmaster...</i>

    Those two words made the hearts of many tremble, and their gazes toward Chen Fan now carried fear.

    A sixteen or seventeen-year-old Qi Grandmaster?

    Was that possible?

    Absolutely not!

    After all, wasn¡¯t Chen Fan¡¯s dantian like iron, and his meridians blocked?

    How could he possibly be a Qi Grandmaster powerhouse?!

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong were also dumbstruck.

    Was this really their son and grandson?

    ¡°Me, insolent?¡±

    Chen Fan burst intoughter with arrogance, sweeping a cold gaze across those who hade to cause trouble. ¡°Old codger, so what if I¡¯m being insolent? Are you going to attack me?¡±

    The corners of Chen Tianyin¡¯s eyes twitched, his expression stiff.

    <i>Attack him?</i>

    He would have had Chen Fan not defeated Chen Hai in a single move.

    But now...

    He hadn¡¯t even gauged Chen Fan''s true strength. Take action against him?

    He had no intention of being crushed beneath Chen Fan¡¯s foot!

    ¡°If you don¡¯t dare to act, then shut up! Now, anyone still eyeing my father¡¯s position, step forward!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s sharp gaze swept across the crowd. Those people in Chen Tianyin¡¯s faction immediately lowered their heads, not daring to meet Chen Fan¡¯s gaze.

    ¡°Hmph, a bunch of losers!¡±

    Chen Fan scolded without a trace of politeness. ¡°It¡¯s because of you losers that the Tan and Liu ns¡¯ people dare to abduct our Chen n¡¯s descendants in public. You even considered handing me over to appease the two ns!¡±

    Anger shed across their faces, but none dared to voice it. Even Chen Tianyin held his silence.

    ¡°Alright, get lost, all of you. If the two ns seek retribution, let theme. I¡¯m curious to see how many they¡¯ll send for me to kill!¡±

    His words struck fear into everyone¡¯s hearts.

    Was he not tantly disregarding the Tan and Liu ns?

    Could he, even if he were a Qi Grandmaster, im such authority?

    The two ns boasted abined total of six Qi Grandmasters. Could he possibly confront six opponents alone?

    1. Simr to Xiao/Little, Da/Big can be used as a term of endearment. ?

 Chapter 151 - Shocking the Two

    <h4>Chapter 151 - Shocking the Two</h4>

    ¡°The Grand Elder¡¯s ns were foiled... just like that?¡±

    ¡°What else could they do? Who knew Chen Fan had be this terrifyingly strong? Did you not see him defeat Chen Hai with one punch? At the very least, he is at the peak of the eighth level; he could even be a Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, wasn¡¯t Chen Fan martial trash with an iron-like dantian and blocked meridians? How did he cultivate to this level?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? Perhaps the Spring Autumn Sect has the solution to his problems and helped him soar to new heights. After all, it''s a vast sect with as many experts as there are raindrops in the rain.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd watched as Chen Tianyin, along with his followers, left Chen Tianxiong''s courtyard in disappointment, exchanging gossip among themselves.

    Many were surprised by Chen Fan''s sudden disy of strength, effectively quashing Chen Tianyin''s arrogance.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    After everyone had left, Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong fixed their gaze on Chen Fan.

    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that, Father, Grandfather?¡± Chen Fan said helplessly, rubbing the tip of his nose.

    "Xiaofan," Chen Zhengqing said earnestly, "even I can''t sense your cultivation level. Be straightforward¡ªare you a Qi Grandmaster?"

    He was once a Yuanfu realm powerhouse; although his primeval vessel was damaged, he hadn¡¯t lost his perception. When he tried to sense Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, he only saw a mysterious fog.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong¡¯s eyes widened in pleasant surprise.

    Releasing a bit of his Qi Grandmaster aura, he exined, ¡°Father, Grandfather, my cultivation technique is quite unique, allowing me to hide my cultivation level.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°In that case, Xiaofan, your dantian and meridians...¡±

    ¡°About half a year ago, I was struck by lightning. It unexpectedly opened up my dantian and unblocked my meridians.¡±

    ¡°Struck by lightning?¡±

    ¡°Only half a year ago?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong were stunned by Chen Fan¡¯s words.

    Struck by lightning yet blessed with profound benefits, Chen Fan had transformed from martial trash to a Qi Grandmaster in just six months.

    However, the two weren¡¯t simpletons, so when they heard Chen Fan¡¯s exnation, they quickly realized that he must havee across some kind of heavenly encounter.

    Since Chen Fan hadn¡¯t brought the matter up, they decided to let it rest. After all, the fewer people knew about it, the better. If news of it spread, they could draw a blood cmity to themselves.

    ¡°Good, the heavens have blessed my grandson!¡± Chen Tianxiong was truly shedding tears of joy.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Xiaofan, setting your advancement aside, we still have to discuss the Tan and Liu n¡¯s imminent attack. Even with you on our side, we have only four Qi Grandmasters, while thebined forces of the two ns boast six."

    Unfazed, Chen Fan reassured, ¡°No need to worry, Father. If the two ns really dare to start a war with our Chen n, I¡¯ll obliterate them, securing our n¡¯s dominance in Xuanyang City!¡±

    Chen Fan''s confidence and dismissive attitude toward the two ns made Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong¡¯s hearts beat faster.

    Could it be that Chen Fan was a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster?

    Without dwelling on the matter, Chen Fan changed the subject. ¡°Father, I have good news for you.¡±

    ¡°What good news?¡± Chen Zhengqing asked.

    ¡°Take a look at this.¡± Chen Fan smiled, revealing the Buddhist Bone Relic.

    A golden Buddha light instantly enveloped the hall, apanied by a resonant Sanskrit chant.

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong¡¯s eyes narrowed before they eximed in shock, ¡°This is... a Buddhist Bone Relic!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Father, this Buddhist Bone Relic can heal your injuries.¡±

    Overwhelmed with excitement, Chen Zhengqing stammered, ¡°This... this... Where did you get this, Xiaofan?¡±

    His injuries have been around for over a decade and often red up. He had to suppress it regrly to prevent his primeval vessel frompletely shattering and losing all his cultivation.

    Despite trying various remedies over the years, none proved effective. Elixirs capable of re-condensing his primeval vessel were exceedingly rare, far beyond the Chen n''s means in Xuanyang City.

    Resigned to a life burdened by his condition, he had expected to sumb toplete disability once he could no longer suppress his injuries. However, Chen Zhengqing found unexpected hope when Chen Fan produced the Buddhist Bone Relic.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get too excited, Father. Aside from the Buddhist Bone Relic, there¡¯s also this.¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly and then took out the Sun Stone.

    ¡°This... this... a Sun Stone!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing was knowledgeable. Sensing the fiery essence in the gemstone, his qi began quivering, immediately recognizing its significance.

    ¡°Father, take both the Buddhist Bone Relic and the Sun Stone. Begin secluded cultivation at once to heal your injuries.¡± Chen Fan shoved those two items into Chen Zhengqing¡¯s hands.

    Shifting his attention to Chen Tianxiong, Chen Fan said with a smile, ¡°Grandfather, your grandson here has brought something good for you too. Look.¡±

    He presented a wooden box and Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing.

    ¡°This is an Innate Golden Armor!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong immediately recognized the Golden-Threaded Jade Clothing, visibly stunned.

    Opening the wooden box, he found a round pill emitting a faint fragrance. A whiff of it made Chen Tianxiong feel his cultivation bottleneck slightly loosening.

    ¡°This is... a Realm Breaking Pill!¡± Chen Tianxiong eximed in shock.

    ¡°Mmm, Grandfather, take the Realm Breaking Pill. I¡¯ll give you some other treasures. You can go into secluded cultivation with Father and try to break through to the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Once Father recovers and you advance to the Yuanfu realm, our Chen n will boast two Yuanfu realm powerhouses, enabling us to thrive in a grade-2 city or even a grade-1 city.¡±

    Chen Tianxiong suddenly suppressed his smile and said sternly, ¡°Xiaofan, Grandfather is old. Even with the Realm Breaking Pill, my chances of breaking through are slim. You, on the other hand, are already a Qi Grandmaster at such a young age. It''s better if you consume it.¡±

    However, Chen Fan shoved the Innate Golden Armor and the Realm Breaking Pill into Chen Tianxiong¡¯s hand with a smile. ¡°Grandfather, I don¡¯t need something like that to break through. The Realm Breaking Pill was intended for you from the start.¡±

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°Grandfather, I am not lying. The Realm Breaking Pill isn¡¯t useful to me. Consuming it would be a waste for me, but it''s different for you. It can help you advance into the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    ¡°Take it, Father. I trust Xiaofan,¡± Chen Zhengqing said.

    He could no longer see through his son.

    Buddhist Bone Relic, Sun Stone, Realm Breaking Pill, Innate Golden Armor¡ªall four items were rare treasures capable of inciting fiercepetition.

    However, Chen Fan seemed to view those items as trash, indifferent to their value.

    ¡°Alright then. I will be epting them. Ah, the Yuanfu realm...¡±

    Chen Tianxiong conscientiously put the Realm Breaking Pill away, his heart stirring and his blood boiling. Despite the cooling of his blood over the years, it now surged with newfound warmth.

 Chapter 152 - Calm Before the Storm

    <h4>Chapter 152 - Calm Before the Storm</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s return had surprised Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong in more ways than one.

    Not only had he be a Qi Grandmaster, but he had also gifted them rare treasures like the Buddhist Bone Relic, Sun Stone, Realm Breaking Pill, and Innate Golden Armor.

    The shock they felt was even greater than when Chen Fan had crippled Chen Hai¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, I have one more thing for you," Chen Fan dered after contemting. With a glint in his eyes, he squeezed out two drops of blood.

    ¡°While training in the blessednd, I came across a fortuitous opportunity. Now, my blood has some great effects. Take one drop each, and consume it during a critical moment; it¡¯ll bring you some unexpected benefits.¡±

    Chen Fan did not disclose that he had reforged his physique with dragon¡¯s blood.

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong''s eyes gleamed with joy. For his blood to possess such potent effects, Chen Fan must have encountered some huge opportunity.

    They didn¡¯t doubt Chen Fan¡¯s words at all.

    The two drops of blood, tinged with a golden glow, exuded a palpable sense of weight and oppression.

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong carefully stored the drops, intending to consume them during their secluded cultivation.

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, it''s time for you both to enter secluded cultivation, recover swiftly, and be Yuanfu realm experts,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Chen Zhengqing replied, ¡°No hurries. Let¡¯s wait until the matter with the two ns is settled.¡±

    Their concerns lingered despite Chen Fan''s apparent confidence and dismissal of the two ns. After the matter was resolved, it would still be a suitable time to start secluded cultivation.

    ¡°Alright then.¡±

    Chen Fan relented, understanding that unresolved matters could hinder the effectiveness of their cultivation. On the contrary, they might even experience qi deviation.

    ¡°Father, here are some natural treasures I found in the blessednd. While they aren''t of much use to me, they can nurture the talents of our Chen n.¡±

    Chen Fan handed several storage pouches to Chen Zhengqing, each containing precious items acquired in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. These items were precious treasures to Qigong martial artists at the fifth and sixth levels.

    Examining the contents, Chen Zhengqing''s eyes widened in amazement. He chuckled and remarked, ¡°You little brat, the things in here are worth more than a year of our Chen n¡¯s ie. With these, our n''s descendants can be stronger rapidly.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go and see how Qingqing is doing first.¡±

    ......

    Chen Tianyin¡¯s courtyard:

    ¡°Damn it, these opportunists!¡± cursed the people who were resolute in following Chen Tianyin to the end.

    Some elders, initially on Chen Tianyin¡¯s side, were frightened after witnessing Chen Fan forcefully cripple one of Chen Hai''s arms. They decided to withdraw from the situation, prioritizing their safety.

    ¡°Enough!¡± Chen Tianyin shouted coldly, his expression horrid.

    He had nned to stir up trouble and coerce Chen Zhengqing into surrendering his position. However, Chen Fan had single-handedly thwarted his schemes, using his son, Chen Hai, to showcase his dominance.

    So be it if he wanted to establish his might, but did he have to cripple Chen Hai¡¯s arm?

    ¡°Father, we can''t let that little bastard get away with this!¡±

    Chen Hai''s face bore a deep-seated resentment, his eyes aze with intense hatred. Hisbat prowess had sharply diminished due to his crippled arm.

    ¡°Grandfather, we must take revenge. Take revenge for Father!¡± Chen Tao¡¯s eyes were also flickering with hatred.

    Once the foremost genius of the Chen n, boasting cultivation at the sixth level, he now found himself stripped of his genius status by Chen Fan. Moreover, he had crippled his father¡¯s arm, creating an insurmountable vendetta.

    Chen Tianyin looked at Chen Hai with a sunken expression and said, ¡°Dahai, you exchanged a move with that little bastard. Tell me, how strong is he?¡±

    Revenge?

    He wanted to take revenge, too!

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s strength seemed enigmatic.

    How could he seek revenge without understanding his opponent''s strength and risking embarrassment?

    After a moment of contemtion, Chen Hai''s expression grew solemn, and he confessed, ¡°Father, I believe there''s a strong possibility that the little bastard is already a Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    His revtion elicited gasps from those present.

    ¡°Grand Elder, I still have some matters to tend to at home. I¡¯ll be making a move first.¡±

    ¡°Oh, right, my wife is still waiting for me to return. Grand Elder, I¡¯ll be leaving first, too.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The faces of the elders determined to follow Chen Tianyin to the end suddenly changed and hastily excused themselves one after another.

    Before long, only the three direct family members remained in the entire courtyard.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Tianyin mmed his palm on the stone table, smashing it into smithereens. He cursed, ¡°Damn these people. They used others of being opportunists, yet they''re even worse!¡±

    ¡°Father, what should we do now?¡± Chen Hai asked.

    Chen Tianyin pondered momentarily, a cold, scheming light gleaming in his eyes. ¡°Hmph, so what if that little bastard is a Qi Grandmaster? Can he take on six Qi Grandmasters alone?¡±

    ......

    Tan n¡¯s mansion:

    Several figures stood together in the middle of the living room, their expressions uniformly grim.

    These people were the Qi Grandmasters of both the Tan and the Liu ns. They had gathered here because of the assault on Tan Yunbao and Liu Ruyan.

    ¡°Inws, what is your n for this matter?¡± inquired Liu Hongchen, a slightly plump man with an aquiline nose, thick lips, and d in a long, ck silk robe¡ªthe patriarch of the Liu n.

    Tan Feng, patriarch of the Tan n, stood tall and robust, exuding an air of authority. When he spoke, his voice resonated like thunder in the hall.

    ¡°What else can we do? He crippled my son Yunbao and even pped Ruyan in public. He must die, and we''ll make the Chen n surrender half their shops. Otherwise...¡±

    A sinister look shed in Tan Feng¡¯s eyes. ¡°Inws, do we still need to worry about the Chen n?¡±

    ¡°Although Chen Zhengqing was once a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, he is no longer one. Our ns¡¯ old masters... Hehe, first spread the word. The Chen n must hand over Chen Fan and relinquish half their assets by noon tomorrow. If not, our ns will march on the Chen n and wipe them out!¡±

    ¡°Haha, good, we¡¯ll do as you said!¡± Liu Hong chuckled as if the destruction of the Chen n were a foregone conclusion.

    ......

    A piece of news spread from the Tan n, creating shockwaves in Xuanyang City.

    The two ns had decreed that the Chen n must surrender Chen Fan and half their assets by noon tomorrow or face a joint attack that would obliterate them without mercy.

    The entire city buzzed with the news, as the Chen, Tan, and Liu ns were the three most powerful martial ns in Xuanyang City.

    Their actions carried profound implications for the city''s inhabitants. With the Tan and Liu ns uniting against the Chen n, arge-scale confrontation seemed imminent.

 Chapter 153 - Marching on Chen Clan

    <h4>Chapter 153 - Marching on Chen n</h4>

    Xuanyang Restaurant stood as the iconic structure in Xuanyang City, serving as the epicenter of information exchange.

    ¡°Have you heard? The Tan and Liu ns are demanding that the Chen n hand over Chen Fan by noon tomorrow, or they''ll jointly deploy troops to level the Chen n mansion!¡±

    ¡°Really? Chen Fan, the young patriarch of the Chen n? I recall he was born a martial trash. How did he stir up trouble with the two ns?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know that? Tan Yunbao tried to abduct Chen Qingqing today; unfortunately for him, Chen Fan had just returned and saw the entire thing. He straight-up crippled Tan Yunbao, pped Liu Ruyan, and boldly stated they coulde for revenge anytime.¡±

    ¡°This... how is this possible? Did he resolve the problem with his dantian and meridians?¡±

    ¡°His father, Chen Zhengqing, has connections with the Spring Autumn Sect and sent him there three years ago. That¡¯s a martial sect filled with experts and countless treasures; they likely resolved it.¡±

    ¡°Even if he can now cultivate, his actions seem too reckless¡ªcrippling Tan Yunbao and pping Liu Ruyan. With the two ns joined by marriage and united against the Chen n, he handed them a perfect excuse to strike.¡±

    ¡°No one¡¯s saying otherwise. We can only say that young people are too reckless and like to act on their emotions.¡±

    ¡°I fear the Chen n''s prosperous days are over. They''re finished.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see tomorrow. Let¡¯s see if the Chen n surrenders Chen Fan and relinquishes half their assets.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The news swiftly spread to the Chen n, too, immediately causing panic among the n members.

    The two ns had threatened to unite and tten their mansion. What should they do?

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan had used his blood to heal Chen Qingqing¡¯s injuries, even transforming her innate qualities, turning her into a martial genius.

    As he left her residence, he heard the news sent by the two ns, and a cold smile appeared on his face.

    ¡°Jointly sending troops to destroy our Chen n? Hehe,e as you wish. I¡¯ll make sure it¡¯s a one-way trip!¡± Chen Fan muttered with a cold smirk before heading toward Chen Tianxiong''s courtyard.

    Upon arrival, he learned both Chen Tianxiong and Chen Zhengqing were away. The servants said that, due to the news from the two ns, the entire n had fallen into panic. Many elders even requested to hand over Chen Fan. The two had gone to the Council Hall and were discussing things with the n''s higher-ups.

    Earlier, Chen Tianyin had only involved a fraction of the n elders.

    Chen Fan decided to also head over to the Council Hall.

    He could hear the intense arguments before he had even entered the hall.

    Unhurried, Chen Fan decided to eavesdrop from the outside to gauge the sentiments within the hall.

    Most n elders showed unwavering resolve, ready to fight the two ns head-on.

    Evidently, the Chen n elders weren¡¯t all soft.

    After all, tolerating the bullying of their n''s children would erode the cohesion of the n.

    It didn¡¯t take long before news came from the Chen n.

    The Chen n would be waiting for the armies of the Tan and Liu ns tomorrow at noon!

    Once this news circted, Xuanyang City buzzed with renewed intensity. The unexpected hard-line stance taken by the Chen n surprised many.

    ......

    Tan n mansion:

    ¡°Inws, the Chen n is gearing up for a direct confrontation,¡± Liu Hong said with a sinister smile.

    Tan Feng said, ¡°Isn¡¯t that better for us? We can wipe out the Chen n in one stroke and take everything they have. Xuanyang City could be Tanliu City soon.¡±

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s right. Xuanyang City should be renamed. Tomorrow, we''ll raze the Chen n entirely, leaving no survivors!¡± A cruel look appeared on Liu Hong¡¯s face.

    As such, the three ns began mobilizing their people simultaneously.

    The atmosphere in Xuanyang City became charged with a palpable intent for bloodshed.

    Unexpectedly, Chen n¡¯s young patriarch had created such a huge wave after being absent for three years. The three major ns were about to go to war!

    The night became restless for the people of Xuanyang City, all silently awaiting the unfolding events of the next day.

    Something monumental was set to ur, reshaping the city''s structure entirely.

    However, the prevailing sentiment in Xuanyang City was pessimistic for the Chen n.

    After all, the Tan and Liu ns had six Qi Grandmasters together, while the Chen n only had three. The odds weren¡¯t in their favor.

    ¡°Hitting a stone with an egg!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid the Chen n will be history.¡±

    ¡°The three-way split will turn into a two-way from now on.¡±

    ¡°Ah, a sleepless night. Everything depends on tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps... the Chen n has something up their sleeves.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people in Xuanyang City couldn¡¯t fall asleep that night, as their hearts refused to calm down.

    Amidst this uneasy atmosphere, an uninvited guest approached the Tan n mansion.

    This person stayed at the Tan n mansion for half an hour before leaving.

    ¡°So that¡¯s how it is, inws. I was wondering why the Chen n would take such a tough stance. It turns out that little bastard is very likely a Qi Grandmaster.¡± Emerging from behind a partition screen, Liu Hong wore a cold smile.

    Tan Feng snapped his fingers, a cold light flickering in his eyes. ¡°So what if he¡¯s a Qi Grandmaster? It¡¯s useless even if the Chen n doubled their Qi Grandmasters. They will have to die all the same.¡±

    Liu Hong, appearing pleased, added, "Our ns'' current strength is beyond the Chen n''s imagination. But, inws, you made a promise to this person¡ª"

    Tan Feng waved his hand, interrupting him, and said, ¡°I was merely cating him. Besides, it would work to our advantage if he could help usunch a surprise attack on Chen Tianxiong. We won''t need our patriarchs to intervene.¡±

    ¡°Fantastic. I wish tomorrow woulde faster. I can no longer wait to tten the Chen n mansion and massacre their people,¡± Liu Hong said, pping, his aura brutal.

    ......

    The night passed swiftly, and with the break of dawn, those who had endured a sleepless night eagerly awaited the approaching noon.

    However, their anticipation turned to confusion as they observedrge groups from the Tan and Liu ns setting off toward the Chen n mansion.

    ¡°They¡¯re going ahead of schedule?¡±

    The people were puzzled.

    However, they quickly reacted to the situation.

    The Chen n had already dered that they would be waiting for the arrival of the two ns¡¯ armies. Striking early would undoubtedly catch the Chen n off guard, potentially minimizing casualties during the battle.

    ¡°The great battle is about to start!¡±

    ¡°I feel like my blood is boiling!¡±

    ¡°Such intense murderous qi!¡±

    ¡°Look, the Tan and Liu ns¡¯ men have converged. What a terrifying army, led by four Qi Grandmasters: Tan Feng, Liu Hong, Tan Yunlong, and Liu Rulong!¡±

    ¡°Hmm? The two ns¡¯ old patriarchs aren¡¯t here. Did they think this big of a force is enough to wipe out the Chen n?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd''s hearts quivered as they witnessed the advancing armies of the two ns heading toward the Chen n.

    The news of the approaching army reached the Chen n swiftly. In the mansion square, the Chen n''s army stood at the ready, their gazes piercing and the atmosphere tense. It was a battle of life and death.

    Chen Fan and the others stood at the very front. Chen Tianyin was here, too. As a Qi Grandmaster, he had to be here. He stood next to Chen Tianxiong.

    No words were exchanged; everyone awaited the impending sh in silence.

    The ground soon echoed with the rhythmic footsteps of the approaching forces, causing a slight tremor.

    From a distance, Chen Fan saw a vast, intimidating assembly of armored warriors wielding weapons, marching aggressively toward them.

    The Tan and Liu ns¡¯ armies were here!

 Chapter 154 â€“ Traitor

    <h4>Chapter 154 ¨C Traitor</h4>

    <i>Thump, thump, thump, thump...</i>

    The joint army of the Tan and Liu ns marched orderly toward the Chen n, making the ground tremble. Their momentum was imposing, and their fully geared appearances gave off a chilling aura that swept over the area.

    The two ns''bined forces formed a formidable army totaling nearly two thousand.

    As they marched, their auras blended into a unified force, altering the entire atmosphere and instilling fear in the hearts of onlookers.

    Squadron after squadron of troops, d in armor, showcased their fourth-level cultivation, exuding an imposing presence. Some captains were even experts at the fifth or sixth level.

    The four Qi Grandmasters, including Tan Feng and Liu Hong, were at the forefront. Their auras erupted, creating a powerful and oppressive force that surged forward.

    The expression of the sternly waiting Chen n members darkened, their hearts wavering.

    How imposing!

    The joint army''s aura was overwhelmingly imposing, conveying a sense of invincibility and the ability to conquer all before them.

    On the Chen n''s side, numbering over a thousand, individuals armed with bows andnces aimed at the approaching army, poised for a potentially tragic battle.

    In the Tianwu Continent, prestigious ns and families maintained private armies.

    Maintaining only a thousand private troops, as done by the Chen n, was considered modest. It wasmonce forrge noble houses to boast tens of thousands, even reaching into the hundred thousand range.

    These private soldiers served as the n''s guardians and valuable assets in conflicts among prestigious families.

    The Chen n had fully deployed their entire private army, gathering in the square before the mansion. Their very foundations had been mobilized, ready to fight the two ns to their deaths.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    The two ns¡¯ joint army stepped onto the expansive square, halting at the opposite end, squarely facing the Chen n''s forces.

    ¡°Ha!¡±

    The two ns¡¯ joint army bellowed in unison. The sound waves shook the heavens and shattered the white clouds in the sky. Their momentum was unstoppable.

    ¡°With the two armies facing each other, a tragic battle will surely ensue!¡±

    ¡°The Chen n has pulled out their private troops. They all look like they have a tiger¡¯s back and a bear¡¯s waist, full of vitality. They aren¡¯t weak, either. However,pared to the two ns¡¯ joint army, they are at a numerical disadvantage.¡±

    ¡°What do you know! The fight between their top experts will determine the final results. Those fourth- and fifth-level guys are here just to make up the numbers. In front of the Qi Grandmasters, they are no different from the ants on the ground!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget, the two ns¡¯ old masters have yet to appear. They are also Qi Grandmasters.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. No matter how I look at it, the Chen n has no chance of winning!¡±

    ¡°Perhaps the Chen n thinks that since Chen Fan is a Spring Autumn Sect disciple, the sect will avenge him if the two ns kill him.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The houses and restaurants nearby were packed with spectators, their attention fixated on the square in front of the Chen n mansion.

    The impending standoff between the two armies promised an intense battle, and the fate of a martial n hung in the bnce.

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing, I¡¯ll give your Chen n another chance. Hand over the perpetrator and cede half of your n¡¯s assets, and your n can still live in Xuanyang City. Otherwise, today will be the day of your Chen n¡¯s demise!¡±

    Tan Feng¡¯s terrifying Qi Grandmaster aura surged and shook heaven and earth, creating extreme oppression for the Chen n¡¯s private troops. He stepped forward, directing his stern gaze at Chen Zhengqing and the others.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I advise you people not to make this mistake. Otherwise, we¡¯ll step through your n¡¯s entrance and leave no one alive!¡± Liu Hong also stepped forward. His slightly plump cheeks carried a hint of brutality. A bloody light flickered in his eyes, instilling even more terror than Tan Feng¡¯s shocking aura.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    However, the response to the two was the Qi Grandmaster auras released by Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong.

    Immediately, Tan Feng and the others¡¯ threatening auras were blocked off, allowing the Chen n¡¯s private troops to breathe a sigh of relief. Their gazes turned sharper as well.

    To cultivate the private troops, the Chen n had fed them and provided them with cultivation resources. Now that the Chen n was in a situation where their life or death was hanging in the bnce, they would fight for the n.

    ¡°Cut the nonsense. If your ns want a fight, then we¡¯ll fight. Our Chen n is not afraid of you!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing stepped forward, his aura surging. He was once a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, so even with a damaged primeval vessel, his aura wasn¡¯t something mere Qi Grandmasters could suppress.

    ¡°Fight!¡±

    ¡°Fight!¡±

    ¡°Fight!¡±

    Behind him, the Chen n¡¯s private troops roared with high morale, their auras piercing the sky.

    ¡°Looks like you¡¯re determined to dig your own graves!¡± Tan Feng¡¯s voice suddenly turned cold, a shocking killing intent rising in him.

    ¡°Patriarch, no point in wasting your breath on them. Let¡¯s just attack. Kill all their men and enve their women!¡± sternly said a tall elder from the Tan n, stepping forward.

    "We''ve already shown them extreme benevolence. Inws. Since they are so stubborn, let''s just wipe them out!" Liu Hong''s face twisted into a cruel and malevolent smile as blood-colored arms formed from primeval qi materialized on his back.

    Liu Hong, notorious in Xuanyang City as the Blood Hands ughterer, once ughtered a martial n in a single night, taking the lives of hundreds without leaving a survivor.

    ¡°Alright. Everyone, heed mymand! Kill!¡± Tan Feng''smand echoed, prompting the troops of both ns to nock their arrows and draw their bows to the fullest.

    Thousands of arrows whooshed through the air simultaneously, darkening the sky like swarms of locusts, targeting the Chen n''s army.

    ¡°Line up your shields, then counterattack!¡± Chen Zhengqing roared, releasing primeval qi that transformed into a long arm, effortlessly blocking countless arrows and showcasing the strength of a former Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    ¡°Get¡ª¡± Chen Tianxiong''smand was cut off abruptly. Standing nearby, Chen Tianyin had taken swift action, palm striking Chen Tianxiong''s back and making him stumble.

    Fortunately, Chen Tianxiong was wearing the Innate Golden Armor, absorbing the blow without inflicting serious injury, as only his blood and qi churned in response.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Tianyin darted toward the enemies¡¯ side with Chen Hai and Chen Tao after attacking.

    ¡°Chen Tianyin, you... traitors!¡± The elders of the Chen n seethed with anger when they witnessed the trio''s betrayal. Their furious gazes wished to cut them to pieces.

    Chen Tianyin had sneakily attacked Chen Tianxiong¡ªone of the top Chen n fighters and crucial to their resistance against the two ns. A severe injury to him would virtually extinguish any hope of the Chen n putting up a fight.

    ¡°Are you alright, Grandfather?¡±

    Chen Fan was also surprised at Chen Tianyin''s sudden betrayal.

    Chen Tianxiong took a deep breath, calming his churning qi and blood. He said with a dark expression, ¡°I¡¯m fine, all thanks to the Innate Golden Armor you gave me. Otherwise, that bastard Chen Tianyin would have gotten me good.¡±

    ¡°How is this possible? Chen Tianxiong, you¡¯repletely fine!¡± Chen Tianyin, now standing with the enemies, appeared shocked when he saw Chen Tianxiong was unharmed.

    He had put all his strength into that attack earlier, executing his ultimate technique, the Heavenly Seal Cultivation Technique. Chen Tianyin expected Chen Tianxiong to be heavily injured, if not dead. Tan Feng was also in shock.

    The previous night, Chen Tianyin had dered his intention to defect to the two ns andunch a sneak attack on Chen Tianxiong before the battle began. This n was agreed upon, and they anticipated Chen Tianxiong would be significantly injured. With the Chen n weakened, the two ns expected an easier victory.

    However, to their surprise, Chen Tianxiong had emerged unscathed from the attack.

 Chapter 155 - Killing Everywhere

    <h4>Chapter 155 - Killing Everywhere</h4>

    Chen Tianyin¡¯s sneak attack after betraying the Chen n had failed to injure Chen Tianxiong seriously, but it seeded in causing panic on the Chen n¡¯s side.

    The betrayal also left the Chen n with only two Qi Grandmasters, heightening their risk. In contrast, thebined forces of the two ns boasted five Qi Grandmasters.

    ¡°Damn it, curses, they deserve to die!¡±

    ¡°These three traitors. They deserve to be killed and sliced into pieces!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The elders from the Chen n all revealed looks of anger, wishing they could immediately rush up to the three and kill them.

    ¡°Why, Chen Tianyin? Why did you betray the n?¡± questioned Chen Tianxiong, his gaze icy.

    Chen Tianyinughed coldly and said, ¡°You''re asking me why? You and your son are willing to sacrifice our entire n for the sake of Chen Fan, and you''re questioning me? Consider yourself lucky, Chen Tianxiong. If not for your armor... damn it!¡±

    His eyes filled with murderous intent, Chen Fan said indifferently, ¡°I always knew there was treachery in you, old man. I should have ended you yesterday.¡±

    ¡°Haha, you little bastard, kill me? Let¡¯s see who¡¯s killing who today!¡±

    Chen Tianyinughed without a hint of remorse.

    ......

    ¡°How unexpected. At this critical juncture, the Chen n¡¯s Grand Elder Chen Tianyin has actually betrayed the Chen n!¡±

    ¡°With that, the Chen n has lost all chances. It¡¯s two against five, it¡¯spletely one-sided.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder the old patriarchs of the two ns didn¡¯t appear. Looks like Chen Tianyin had plotted with Tan Feng beforehand. This was all nned out.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately for Chen Tianyin, his scheme didn''t go as nned. Chen Tianxiong emerged unscathed due to his armor. That earlier attack from Chen Tianyin, a Qi Grandmaster, could have been fatal, robbing Chen Tianxiong of at least half his life.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the silver lining in their great misfortune.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby people paying attention to the situation on this side were also shocked by the betrayal and subsequent sneak attack.

    No one had expected Chen Tianyin to betray the n.

    As the Grand Elder of the Chen n and a Qi Grandmaster, betraying his n at this critical moment was like pulling the rug out from under them.

    The crowd grasped the gravity of the situation: with this act of betrayal, the Chen n''s chances of victory were extinguished.

    Destruction loomed over them.

    ......

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know he was wearing inner armor. Moreover, I can guarantee the Chen n doesn''t possess inner armor with such remarkable defenses.¡± Chen Tianyin said, turning his head to look at Tan Feng.

    Chen Tianxiong emerging unscathed defied their expectations, but they weren''t naive. They quickly deduced he must be wearing inner armor with robust defenses to exin his resilience.

    ¡°That little bastard must have given it to him!¡±

    Chen Tianyin looked at Chen Fan with a ruthless gaze.

    Tan Feng said, ¡°Leave it be. Chen Tianxiong''s well-being won''t change a thing. Let''s unite and obliterate the Chen n! Attack!¡±

    At the signal, Tan Feng and hispanions swiftly moved as one. Their figures moved with the swiftness of the wind, converging on the Chen n. Their cultivations erupted ferociously, transforming into weapons that shot forward, tearing through the air.

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, you deal with the others. Just leave those five to me!¡± Chen Fan dered, his gaze steely.

    His Qi Grandmaster cultivation surged, and the very earth seemed to quake beneath him. Clenching his fist, he exerted pressure that made the air explode, obliterating the weapons sent by Tan Feng into fragments.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡± Chen Tianxiong eximed, rmed, ready to lend his assistance.

    Confronting five opponents of simr prowess simultaneously was no easy feat, even for a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°Rest assured, Grandfather. It¡¯s just five ants. I can suppress and kill them as easily as flipping my palm!¡± Chen Fan reassured, his voice ringing in Chen Tianxiong''s ears.

    With a swift punch, he unleashed a powerful force that surged forward, making Tan Feng and his allies squint.

    ¡°Qi Grandmaster! The young patriarch is an expert in the Qi Grandmaster realm!¡±

    ¡°Haha, as expected of our Chen n¡¯s young patriarch, a Qi Grandmaster at such a young age, haha, kill!¡±

    ¡°Chen n is bound to win! Victory for Chen n!¡±

    ¡°Kill, ughter these bastards! Use their fresh blood to wash the square!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Chen n members¡¯ morale skyrocketed when Chen Fan¡¯s Qi Grandmaster began wreaking havoc on the battlefield.

    ¡°Father, have faith in Xiaofan. We''ll lead the charge against the remaining forces!¡± Chen Zhengqing urged Chen Tianxiong, preventing him from intervening. Simultaneously, he rushed toward the enemy¡¯s private troops together with the elders of the Chen n.

    Due to the Chen n''s leadership of two Qi Grandmasters, the Tan and Liu ns quickly sumbed to the onught despite having the numerical advantage. Countless lives were lost in the fierce confrontation.

    ¡°Damn it, this little bastard is indeed a Qi Grandmaster. How is that possible!?¡± Chen Tianyin sensed the powerful aura from Chen Fan; his heart shook violently.

    While he had suspected that, witnessing it firsthand left him shaken.

    How old was Chen Fan?

    Not even seventeen years old!

    A young Qi Grandmaster powerhouse whose aura surpassed even the seasoned Tan Feng and Liu Hong¡¯s unnerved him.

    Moreover, Chen Fan used to be a martial trash with an iron-like dantian and blocked meridians!

    How would he have ended up if he hadn¡¯t held back yesterday and struck Chen Fan?

    ¡°How unexpected, how unexpected. Chen n¡¯s young patriarch, Chen Fan, is also a Qi Grandmaster!¡±

    ¡°No wonder. No wonder the Chen n put on such a tough attitude. It turns out Chen Fan is also a Qi Grandmaster. What a pity, Chen Tianyin betrayed the Chen n.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s unthinkable. Chen Fan was clearly a martial trash. After there were no signs of him for three years, he suddenly became a Qi Grandmaster powerhouse. Are the great sects really that amazing? To be able to turn a trash into a genius?¡±

    ¡°Look, Chen Fan is so ferocious. He¡¯s fighting five Qi Grandmasters alone!¡± remarked onlookers, astonished by the young patriarch''s prowess.

    ¡°......¡±

    No one could have expected Chen Fan to be a Qi Grandmaster powerhouse one day and fight five other Qi Grandmasters alone.

    ......

    ¡°Today, all of you can forget about leaving!¡±

    Chen Fan was speedy, darting toward his opponents like a sh.

    In a blink, three heads and six arms manifested, and his attacks wreaked havoc on the front lines of the two ns'' private troops, eliciting agonizing screams.

    ¡°Little bastard, don¡¯t try to get cocky!¡±

    Tan Feng clenched his fist, summoning two long spears that whirled at high speed and were aimed squarely at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Overestimating yourself!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly. He grabbed with his hand, catching the two long spears flying at him. Then, he threw them back toward Tan Feng at an even greater speed.

    ¡°Have them back!¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Tan Feng became horrified.

    Chen Fan had caught his spears and actually hurled them back with greater force. The sharp, ear-piercing noise of them tearing through the air made his heart tighten.

    He didn¡¯t dare to receive them. Tan Feng evaded, leaving the spears to wreak havoc among the two ns'' private troops.

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, you dare!¡±

    Liu Hong bellowed in frustration as he witnessed Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong effortlessly cutting through the joint army of the two ns, leaving dozens dead in their wake. Enraged, Liu Hong prepared to intervene.

    ¡°I am your opponent!¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan''s primeval qi surged, and he swiftly engaged all five Qi Grandmasters simultaneously. The unexpected might of his attacks left the five experts visibly shaken.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength was beyond their expectations.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    His three heads and six arms struck with unmatched ferocity, resembling a formidable army in motion. People and horses fell everywhere he went past. Even Tan Feng and the other Qi Grandmasters were vomiting blood continuously from his strikes, unable to withstand his onught.

    ¡°You ants dare to talk about wiping out my Chen n with just that? Today, I¡¯ll wipe out your two ns!¡± Chen Fan''s chilling deration echoed.

    As he pressed forward, the private troops of the Tan and Liu ns fell one after another. Chen Fan acted like a one-man army, attacking indiscriminately and leaving devastation in his wake.

 Chapter 156 - Chen Fanâ€™s Ferocity

    <h4>Chapter 156 - Chen Fan¡¯s Ferocity</h4>

    ¡°So strong, Chen Fan is so strong!¡±

    ¡°Is he really a Qi Grandmaster? He single-handedly thrashed five opponents, forcing them to vomit blood and retreat. Even their private troops are falling everywhere. He¡¯s unstoppable!¡±

    ¡°Wrong! We were all wrong! The source of the Chen n''s confidence is clear now. Chen Fan alone can take on five Qi Grandmasters. With such strength, why would the Chen n fear the two ns?¡±

    ¡°The Tan and Liu ns might be heading for a disaster. Even when the five of them join forces, they are no match for Chen Fan. After Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong finish decimating their private troops, they too will face a deadly fate.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n will rise. I fear that the Chen n alone will dominate Xuanyang City in the future!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Xuanyang City¡¯s people watched in awe as Chen Fan dominated the battlefield, leaving death in his wake.

    It was truly terrifying.

    Chen Fan seemed invincible as he cut through the huge armies of the two ns with an unstoppable momentum.

    ¡°The young patriarch... so strong!¡±

    ¡°Young Patriarch is invincible! Victory to the Young Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Haha, it turns out the young patriarch is so powerful. Brothers, let¡¯s step it up. Eliminate those scoundrels from the two ns. Wipe them out, then follow me to seize their houses and eradicate their ns!¡±

    A broad smile spread across Wang Tieshan''s face.

    He didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to be so strong, overpowering the five Qi Grandmasters to the extent that they couldn''t even retaliate.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    ¡°This little brat!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong and Chen Zhengqing were astounded by the unfolding situation.

    Chen Fan appeared calm andposed since yesterday, showing no regard for the Tan and Liu ns.

    They had assumed that Chen Fan, at most, could take on two or three Qi Grandmasters; unexpectedly, he had trounced five of them.

    ¡°Haha, excellent! They dare to assault our Chen n; let''s eliminate them!¡± Chen Zhengqing roared. A surge of primeval qi erupted, materializing into a zing long de that swept through the two ns'' private troops, leaving wails in its wake.

    The once gant and vigorous private troops of the two ns, initially prepared to trample the Chen n''s mansion, now faced the unmatched ferocity of Chen Fan on the battlefield.

    Their patriarchs and young leaders were left incapacitated, vomiting blood from Chen Fan¡¯s relentless beatings.

    Simultaneously, the Chen n''s Qi Grandmasters, Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong, executed a violent massacre, rendering the opposing private troops powerless to resist.

    The once-imposing momentum of the two ns had dwindled, reced by rising fear.

    Conversely, the Chen n stood at the peak of momentum, led by their young patriarch, Chen Fan.

    ¡°Impossible! Impossible! How can you be so powerful!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike destroyed Chen Tianyin¡¯s tendons and bones, sending him flying backward while vomiting blood. His eyes were filled with fear as he roared furiously.

    <i>How did it turn out like this?</i>

    <i>How can Chen Fan be so strong?</i>

    ¡°It''s not that I''m too strong; you''re too weak! Old bastard, consider yourself lucky that I spared youst night. Now I¡¯ll send you to hell!¡±

    Chen Fan clenched his hand, shattering the protectiveyer of primeval qi around Chen Tianyin. Chen Fan caught the dispersed energy mid-air.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me. Young Patriarch, Young Patriarch Chen Fan, spare me, spare my life. I know my mistakes. I¡¯ll change; I¡¯ll change my ways. Please spare my life, I¡¯ll help the Chen n kill...¡± Chen Tianyin pleaded in a panic, overwhelmed with fear.

    Chen Fan''s god-like strength instilled an abyss of terror within him.

    If he had known Chen Fan was so powerful earlier, he wouldn¡¯t have betrayed the Chen n or harbored any disloyal thoughts.

    ¡°It¡¯s toote. Not just you, but your son and grandson as well. I¡¯ll send them all to reunite with you in hell!¡± Chen Fan had no mercy for traitors. He struck out with a punch, and a Qi Grandmaster perished.

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    A collective gasp swept through the people of Xuanyang City as they witnessed Chen Tianyin''s death at the hands of Chen Fan.

    That was a Qi Grandmaster!

    In these people¡¯s eyes, Qi Grandmasters were god-like existences. In their rage, a clear sky that spanned thousands of miles could immediately turn into an overcast sky. A word from them could decide their life or death.

    And someone like that had been in by Chen Fan, challenging their preconceived notions of invincibility.

    Tan Feng, Liu Hong, and the other Qi Grandmasters were also stunned, panic evident in their eyes.

    Qi Grandmasters proved shockingly weak before Chen Fan, sumbing to his strikes with no resistance.

    ¡°Father!¡±

    ¡°Grandfather!¡±

    Grief and anger consumed Chen Hai and Chen Tao. Yet, the emotion that overwhelmed their psyche was fear.

    Wrong!

    They were wrong!

    They had taken the wrong path¡ªa path with no chance of return.

    ¡°The old bastard is dead. You should go down with him!¡±

    With two casual punches, Chen Fan made the air explode.

    Chen Hai and Chen Tao, paralyzed with fear, couldn''t even muster the strength to dodge, disintegrating into a pile of blood and flesh.

    ¡°Haha, good job, nice kill!¡±

    ¡°This family deserves no pity for their deaths!¡±

    ¡°Young Patriarch is invincible! Young Patriarch is invincible!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Some of Chen n¡¯s elders saw Chen Fan killing Chen Tianyin¡¯s family and revealed smiles offort. Their attacks on the two ns'' private troops grew fiercer, devoid of mercy.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn!¡±

    Chen Fan shifted his icy cold gaze toward Tan Feng and the others; they felt like someone had thrown their minds in a tumbler.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Disregarding everything else, Chen Fan darted toward them.

    Undefeated King¡¯s Fist shook the heaven and earth as terrifying punches and palm strikes swept out, making their protective primeval qi explode.

    The prospect of facing a direct punch or palm strike from Chen Fan left them horrified.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan''s gaze flickered with ferocity as he targeted Tan Yunlong.

    His punches, akin to cannonballs, closed all of Tan Yunlong¡¯s escape routes, leaving him with no refuge.

    Tan Yunlong felt a numbing sensation on his scalp, a sense of impending doom enveloping him.

    ......

    Tan n¡¯s mansion:

    Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan rxed in the main hall, sipping tea with calm expressions.

    They hadn¡¯t joined in the fight, as they believed that four Qi Grandmasters were more than enough for the job.

    ¡°Brother, I¡¯m sure our army has already trampled the Chen n¡¯s gates,¡± Tan Wanshan said with a smile.

    Liu Shan reciprocated with a smile. ¡°But of course. How could a mere Chen n resist our two ns¡¯ huge army?¡±

    ¡°Haha, Brother, the fate of the Chen n is of no concern. Once we eradicate them, our ns will dominate Xuanyang City. With both of us advancing, forming our primeval vessels, it''s time to venture into a Grade-2 city," Tan Wanshan dered.

    ¡°Grade-2 city...¡±

    Liu Shan narrowed his eyes slightly and said, ¡°Indeed. Xuanyang City has be too confined for us. We need to develop in arger city to bring our ns to the next level.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve thought it over for a bit. In the future, Xuanyang City will serve as our ns¡¯ headquarters. Our ns will unite and absorb the surrounding Grade-3 cities, seizing their resources. From there, we''ll advance to Grade-2 cities. Entering a Grade-1 city in the future is not an impossible feat,¡± Tan Wanshan said.

    Liu Shan smiled and said, ¡°Haha, good. We¡¯ll do as you say.¡±

    ¡°Bad news, something terrible has happened!¡±

    A figure rushed in, stumbling as they entered. Kneeling before the two, they urgently reported, "Old patriarchs, a cmity has struck. The patriarchs... they..."

    Tan Wanshan furrowed his brow, a sense of foreboding taking hold. Had something gone awry with Tan Feng and the others'' assault on the Chen n?

    ¡°The patriarchs are in trouble! Chen n¡¯s Chen Fan is also a Qi Grandmaster and terrifyingly powerful. Five people surrounded Chen Fan, including the patriarchs, but were all beaten back and left vomiting blood. He has already killed Chen Tianyin...¡±

    ¡°What?!¡±

    The revtion hit Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan like a shockwave, their auras surging like tempests. The main hall quivered under the intensity of their reaction.

 Chapter 157 - The Two Clansâ€™ Confidence

    <h4>Chapter 157 - The Two ns¡¯ Confidence</h4>

    Tan Yunlong felt such despair that it seemed death itself was gunning for him.

    Chen Fan''s terrifying punches blocked every escape route, relentless as rain. The airpressed violently, akin to steel tes squeezing inward.

    <i>Bang bang!</i>

    He circted his cultivation to the limit, his hands striking the air like iron palms, producing exploding noises.

    ¡°Bastard, you dare!¡±

    Tan Feng was furious at the sight of this. He shook, and a light de manifested in his hand, rapidly growing to ten meters long, transforming into a rotating de wheel.

    ¡°me Beacon de Wheel!¡±

    The me Beacon de Wheel shed through the air, targeting Chen Fan, and a powerful qi enveloped Chen Fan, restraining him.

    ¡°Petty tricks. Shatter!¡±

    With a hit from Chen Fan, theyer of qi directly shattered.

    Chen Fan caught the me Beacon de Wheel by stretching his hand and pinching it between his fingers.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    As soon as he exerted his strength, the me Beacon de Wheel, capable of killing Qi Grandmasters, blew up in his hand, turning into nothing.

    ¡°How is that possible?¡±

    Tan Feng was astonished.

    Chen Fan effortlessly thwarted Tan Feng''s strongest attack, reducing it to mere child''s y.

    What material was Chen Fan¡¯s palm made out of?

    Liu Hong and Liu Rulong were shocked.

    Liu Hong, infamous as the Blood Hand ughterer for his ruthless exploits, couldn''t conceal his look of horror when he saw Chen Fan crush Tan Feng''s me Beacon de Wheel.

    ¡°With just you ants, you dare have designs on my Chen n? You¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Tan Feng disdainfully and said, ¡°Where are the other two old fogeys hiding? Call for them; I''ll send you all to hell together today! And he is the first!¡±

    ¡°Stop it!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Chen Fan was about to kill Tan Rulong when two resounding shouts echoed through the air like morning thunder. The qi and blood of the countless spectators shook uncontrobly.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Simultaneously, two silhouettes came rushing from a distance at a breakneck speed, stepping on air.

    ¡°Little bastard, I¡¯ll wipe out your entire n if you dare kill my grandson!¡±

    Tan Wanshan arrived in the blink of an eye and pointed his finger, unleashing a strand of primeval force toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, realizing the gravity of the situation.

    The two ns had been so overbearing because their old patriarchs had be Yuanfu realm experts.

    Tan Wanshan''s primeval force swiftly reached Chen Fan, but Chen Fan effortlessly countered with a punch, dispersing the force without flinching.

    With a simple motion, he pulled Tan Yunlong toward him.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death. Let go of Yunlong!¡±

    Tan Wanshan, shocked that his attack had no effect on Chen Fan, flew into a rage upon seeing his grandson captured. His aura surged, shattering the white clouds in the sky.

    ¡°Stepping on the air, riding the wind¡ªthe Yuanfu realm!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong and the others saw Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan standing proudly in the air, primeval force flowing around them.

    A formidable and oppressive aura radiated in all directions, shaking their very souls.

    Realizing that those two had advanced to the Yuanfu realm, their expressions paled.

    ¡°Chen n members, fall back!¡±

    Although Chen Zhengqing¡¯s heart was iparably heavy, he was still clear-headed. He immediately ordered the Chen n members to fall back and regroup.

    The old patriarchs of the Tan and Liu ns were now Yuanfu realm experts. The Chen n was about to face a disaster.

    Chen Fan had been trouncing Qi Grandmasters, so Chen Zhengqing had thought they could win the war.

    Unexpectedly, the old patriarchs had both broken through to the Yuanfu realm. It was no wonder they had not shown themselves all this time.

    Instantly, the high morale of the Chen n members plummeted as if an icy deluge had doused them, sending chills down their spines.

    Yuanfu realm powerhouses stood before them, rendering even Qi Grandmasters as insignificant as ants.

    The Chen n had produced a huge dragon that was Chen Fan, but would he perish before he could rise to the skies?

    Despair engulfed every member of the Chen n.

    ¡°Yuanfu... that¡¯s a Yuanfu realm powerhouse!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, Old Patriarch Tan, and Old Patriarch Liu have broken through to the Yuanfu realm without making a peep.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n is done for. The two ns have Yuanfu realm powerhouses behind them. I¡¯m afraid none of them have expected this. The heavens seem determined to obliterate the Chen n."

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Regardless of Chen Fan''s strength, he is a Qi Grandmaster. Against Yuanfu realm powerhouses... the difference is like heaven and earth.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The revtion also shook the people of Xuanyang City, the ongoing conflict surpassing their expectations.

    From the treacherous Grand Elder Chen Tianyin''s betrayal to Chen Fan''s surprising emergence as a Qi Grandmaster, the tides of the battle had shifted many times.

    Chen Fan single-handedly confronted five opponents, overwhelming them, defeating Tan Feng and the other Qi Grandmasters, and effortlessly killing the n''s traitor, Chen Tianyin.

    Everyone thought Chen n would win this sh by relying on Chen Fan.

    Yet, once again, the unexpected unfolded. The old patriarchs of the Tan and Liu ns, revealing themselves as Yuanfu realm powerhouses, stepped into the fray, shattering previous expectations.

    This whole process was full of twists and turns, ups and downs, making the onlookers¡¯ emotions rise and fall like the tide.

    However, with Yuanfu realm experts joining the fight, the consensus was clear¡ª the Chen n was done for.

    Even if Chen Fan was unrivaled within the Qi Grandmaster realm and could face Yuanfu realm experts, he was definitely no match for them. After all, he would have to face two Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°Little bastard, let go of Yunlong, and I will give you a quick death. Otherwise, I have plenty of methods to make you wish for death!¡±

    Tan Wanshan looked at Chen Fan with a fierce gaze. His gaze was sharp as a de, trying to injure Chen Fan with it and save Tan Yunlong from his hands.

    Yet, Chen Fan met his gaze unwaveringly, inflicting a stabbing pain on Tan Wanshan with his intense stare.

    ¡°Little bastard, let go of Yunlong and end yourself. That way, you can still save the rest of your Chen n. Otherwise, your Chen n will be a blood river with no survivors! If you don¡¯t want your father and grandfather to die because of you, don¡¯t make any mistakes!¡± Tan Feng said fiercely.

    The Chen n had no hope of resistance against the formidable strength of the two patriarchs.

    ¡°Haha, little bastard, you never expected this, did you? My grandfather is already a Yuanfu realm powerhouse. Quickly let me go and kowtow to apologize if you don¡¯t want to bring a disaster to your n?¡± Tan Yunlong shouted. He was once fearful but grew arrogant upon seeing the old patriarchs.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Chen Fan delivered a crisp p to him and said indifferently, ¡°Did you think they could save you? Well, since they¡¯re here, I won¡¯t kill you first. I¡¯ll ughter those old dogs first and teach you what despair means!¡±

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Tan Wanshan and the others immediately flew into a rage when they saw Chen Fan pping Tan Yunlong. They felt their prestige as Yuanfu realm experts was severely challenged.

    Despite his rage, Tan Wanshan refrained from making any rash moves. After all, Tan Yunlong was still in Chen Fan''s grasp.

 Chapter 158 - Three Punches to Exterminate a Yuanfu Realm

    <h4>Chapter 158 - Three Punches to Exterminate a Yuanfu Realm</h4>

    ¡°Xiaofan, hurry back. Your grandfather and I will hold them back; use this opportunity to escape. If you survive, our Chen n will survive, and a day wille when we exact revenge!¡± said Chen Zhengqing, transmitting his voice through primeval qi into Chen Fan''s ear.

    Tan Wanshan scoffed at the attempt to transmit voice through primeval qi. "Hmph, ying tricks before me won''t save your Chen n. This brat won''t escape either.¡±

    Though transmitting voice through primeval qi was a covert act, Tan Wanshan, a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, detected the fluctuation of primeval qi in the air and overheard Chen Zhengqing''s message to Chen Fan.

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong¡¯s expressions darkened.

    ¡°From this day on, Xuanyang City will no longer have a Chen n.¡±

    ¡°Who does the Chen n think they are, daring to defy our ns? You must surrender whatever we desire willingly¡ªbe it your head or your life. You must never resist, or we¡¯ll make you wish you were dead instead.¡±

    "The Chen n has no ce in this world anymore."

    ¡°......¡±

    The elders of the two nsughed arrogantly, gazing at Chen Fan and his kin as though they were already dead.

    ¡°Whatever. Since you think those two old bastards can save you, I¡¯ll show you the true meaning of despair."

    ¡°You might be Yuanfu realm experts, but you just broke through, yet you dare to act so arrogantly. I¡¯ll make you regret ever being born in this world.¡±

    Chen Fan had been listening to all this quietly. Suddenly, primeval qi erupted from Chen Fan''s pores, shooting through the air like razor-sharp swords capable of piercing metal.

    The broken arrows in the square levitated, each spinning fiercely with a haunting wail.

    Some iron arrows even sparked from the friction with the air during their high-speed rotations, producing the pungent scent of burning iron.

    ¡°Hell Vortex!¡±

    Chen Fan roared in his heart. All the arrows that filled the sky surged toward Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan.

    ¡°You are courting death, little bastard. You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Tan Wanshan and Liu Hong erupted in fury at Chen Fan''s daring attack. Their auras transformed into colossal hands that spanned the sky, swatting away the arrows.

    ¡°You old fogeys, I¡¯ll send you to your deaths!¡± Chen Fan sneered.

    Much to the astonishment of the onlookers, wings suddenly sprouted from Chen Fan''s back. With a swish, a powerful gust of wind knocked the two ns'' troops off their feet.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan floated up, standing before Tan Wanshan and delivering a forceful punch.

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re sending yourself to death, you know that!?¡±

    When Tan Wanshan saw Chen Fan sprouting wings, he was surprised, but some part of him also felt fear.

    Even if he had mastered a martial art that allowed him to fly, for a mere Qi Grandmaster to challenge a Yuanfu realm expert like him was nothing short of seeking death.

    Tan Wanshan¡¯s primeval force transformed into a fiery red de, carrying a scorching aura. The de spewed out sharp qi that condensed into streaks of ming de qi.

    ¡°Raging mes Violent de!¡±

    Tan Wanshan executed a vicious chop, sending a scorching wave of qi hurtling towards Chen Fan. A burnt smell lingered in the air as the de violently rubbed against the air, igniting and transforming into a ming de.

    Below them, Tan Feng raised his head to watch them, a cruel smile on his face. ¡°This brat dares to seek out the old patriarch alone. He¡¯s truly seeking death!¡±

    No matter how formidable a Qi Grandmaster was, they are still just that¡ªa Qi Grandmaster. The gap between them and Yuanfu realm powerhouses was insurmountable.

    ¡°Under Old Patriarch Tan¡¯s de, not even your ghost will remain. This little bastard will surely die without aplete corpse.¡± Liu Hong also breathed a sigh of relief.

    Both the old patriarchs hade to oversee the situation. After ying Chen Fan, it would be time for the Chen n to get wiped out.

    ¡°Xiaofan...¡±

    Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and the others were also looking up anxiously.

    Chen Fan practicing a flying martial art was also out of their expectations. Even if he couldn¡¯t win against Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan, it should be possible for him... to escape.

    In this critical moment, their hearts tightened, and they could only watch helplessly, powerless to intervene.

    Facing Tan Wanshan¡¯s sh, Chen Fan showed no signs of fear.

    He struck out with a punch. The air exploded and directly shattered Tan Wanshan¡¯s Raging mes Violent de, turning it into countless wisps of me that fell and burned tiny holes in the square.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Tan Wanshan stood there in astonishment as Chen Fan effortlessly shattered his attack with a single punch. How was this possible?

    Before he couldprehend the situation, Chen Fan''s second punch was already hurtling toward him.

    Tan Wanshan could only raise his guard quickly, blocking with his arms.

    <i>Snap!</i>

    A sharp pain surged through his arms as Chen Fan''s iron fist tore through his protective primeval force like paper.

    An overwhelming force followed, breaking his arms and rupturing his organs, sending him flying backward.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan chased after him so fast that it seemed like he was teleporting. His third punch sted toward Tan Wanshan¡¯s head.

    Unable to resist, Tan Wanshan, with broken arms, could only watch as Chen Fan''s cold figure approached, the iron fist descending toward his head.

    ¡°No!¡± Tan Wanshan let out a terrified roar. All his primeval force erupted, the surrounding space exploding, hoping this would stop Chen Fan.

    s, it was useless!

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Before Chen Fan''s fist could connect, the pressure from the punch caused Tan Wanshan''s head to rupture and explode like a watermelon.

    A headless corpse plunged from the sky.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Tan Wanshan¡¯s headless corpse crashed onto the square, raising a dust cloud.

    The entire square fell deadly silent in an instant. Not even the sound of breathing could be heard.

    Everyone stared, forgetting to exhale, their hearts violently trembling as they watched the headless corpse.

    How was that possible?

    Tan Wanshan was a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, a terrifying god-like existence. His words were thew, bending everything to his will.

    Yet, this mighty figure met his end with just three punches.

    <i>Gulp!</i>

    <i>Gulp!</i>

    Gulps echoed throughout Xuanyang City as many eyes found themselves stuck on the teen in the air, his wings gently pping. Numerous minds and gazes quivered in disbelief.

    A Qi Grandmaster had effortlessly vanquished a Yuanfu realm expert. If word of this spread out, the surrounding dozen or so cities would be shaken!

    ¡°Father!¡±

    ¡°Grandfather!¡±

    Tan Feng and Tan Yunlong wailed simultaneously, their faces ashen. Chen Fan had defeated Tan Wanshan in three punches¡ªa scenario beyondprehension.

    ¡°Wanshan...¡±

    On the other side, Liu Shan hung frozen in mid-air.

    Looking at Tan Wanshan¡¯s headless corpse below, he shivered involuntarily.

    The two had been happily conversing, nning the future of their ns just moments ago, and now, life and death separated them.

    Suddenly, Liu Shan snapped back to reality, feeling an icy, prating gaze fixed upon him.

    This gaze belonged to Chen Fan.

 Chapter 159 - One Man Eliminating a Thousand

    <h4>Chapter 159 - One Man Eliminating a Thousand</h4>

    <i>Run!</i>

    Almost instantly, this notion sprang up in Liu Shan''s mind.

    Chen Fan had killed Tan Wanshan with three punches, making a Yuanfu realm expert seem like an ant and disying his might.

    He no longer had the guts to show off his prestige as a Yuanfu realm expert in front of Chen Fan and wanted to prioritize escaping.

    Hence, he abandoned all concerns and hastily fled into the distance.

    His life now took precedence over his affiliations with the Liu n, the Tan n, or any of his descendants.

    ¡°Father!¡±

    ¡°Grandfather!¡±

    Liu Hong and Liu Rulong immediately felt like they had fallen into a deep abyss, all strength slipping away when they saw Liu Shan abandoning them and running away.

    ¡°Thinking of escaping in front of me? How na?ve!¡± Chen Fanughed coldly.

    His Wings of Rain Dragon instantly tore through the air, catching up to Liu Shan at nearly double his speed. His terrifying fist sted toward Liu Shan.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Frantically fleeing for his life, Liu Shan had no thoughts of crossing moves with Chen Fan. So, the attacknded on him, and he plummeted to the ground like a bird with broken wings.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan also swooped down.

    ¡°Don¡¯t, don¡¯t kill me. I¡¯ll do anything for you. I am even willing to be your n¡¯s servant. All I ask for is to spare my life!¡±

    Liu Shan had been knocked out of the sky and vomited blood continuously.

    Terrified, he disregarded his injuries, kneeling on the ground and kowtowing for mercy. None of the imposing presence he once exuded remained.

    ¡°Be my n¡¯s servant? You¡¯re not worthy!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s icy cold voice announced Liu Shan¡¯s death sentence. Chen Fan, like a god descending to the mortal world, unleashed a punch, piercing through Liu Shan''s chest and ending his life.

    Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan, both Yuanfu realm powerhouses, had sought to subdue the Chen n. However, Chen Fan quickly overwhelmed and killed them one after another.

    Silence enveloped the entire Xuanyang City.

    Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan¡¯s arrival had made Tan Yunlong believe that the Chen n was about to fall into despair, but Chen Fan had fulfilled his promise.

    Tan Yunlong truly tasted the bitterness of despair.

    He finally knew what despair meant.

    The higher the hopes, the more profound the despair when shattered.

    Chen Fan''s strategy wasn''t to kill Tan Yunlong but to strip away every vestige of hope.

    Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and theirpanions stood in stunned silence as if their souls had been frozen.

    Yuanfu realm experts were killed easily like ants in Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Young Patriarch is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Young Patriarch is invincible!¡±

    Suddenly, the Chen n¡¯s side erupted with excited cheers.

    They had fallen into despair due to Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan¡¯s arrival, but the mood shifted dramatically after Chen Fan killed them.

    Stunned initially, the onlookers soon found their spirits reignited, cheering with unrestrained enthusiasm.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Young Patriarch is mighty. Even Yuanfu realm experts are nothing more than a fart in front of him, weak as an ant!¡±

    Wang Tieshan¡¯s voice rumbled like thunder as heughed heartily.

    ¡°Good, good. As expected of my son! Killing a Yuanfu realm with three punches, incredible!¡± Chen Zhengqing, too, joined theughter, his voice resonating like thunder.

    ¡°Chen n members, with me, kill!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong, seemingly rejuvenated, waved his hand, leading the charge toward the two ns. His cultivation surged, capturing the attention of the onlookers.

    ¡°People from the Tan and Liu ns, put down your weapons and surrender; I will not kill you. If you continue being stubborn, don¡¯t me me for showing no mercy!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice rumbled like thunder, resounding in the ears of the two ns¡¯ men.

    Immediately, some private troops dropped their weapons and knelt on the ground, their hands raised in surrender.

    ¡°I surrender, I surrender, don¡¯t kill me!¡±

    ¡°I surrender too! I surrender too!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The army copsed like a mountain.

    Chen Fan¡¯s prestige peaked after ying Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan, decimating the enemy private troops¡¯ morale. They removed their helmets and armor, kneeling on the ground and begging for mercy.

    Tan Feng and the other Qi Grandmasters were also in despair.

    Even their Yuanfu realm patriarchs were dead. They had lost all hopes of turning the situation around.

    They hadn''t anticipated anything close to it before they had deployed their troops.

    Their unstoppable force should have trampled the Chen n, but...

    ¡°Let¡¯s go all out. That little bastard Chen Fan definitely won''t let our ns¡¯ people go. We can''t kill him, but what about his grandfather and father? Even if we die, we must make him suffer. Have him suffer for the rest of his life!¡±

    A ruthless look shed in Tan Feng¡¯s eyes. Following a roar, he, Liu Hong, Liu Rulong, and Tan Yunlong immediately charged at Chen Tianxiong.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    A fierce light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He stomped on the ground; immediately, cracks spread on the ground as his cultivation was activated. The limestone tiles soon broke into many tiny pieces.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    He stomped on the ground again, and these limestone pieces tore through the air, shooting at his enemies.

    The limestone fragments struck the elders of the Tan and Liu ns, killing many and injuring others.

    As for Tan Feng¡¯s group of four, the attack shattered their protective primeval qi and riddled them.

    Chen Fan spread his wings like a roc and came flying over. Their vision blurred as a finger pierced the area between their brows.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Four explosion sounds rang out.

    Chen Fan¡¯s finger pierced Tan Feng and the others¡¯ hard skulls as if they were tofu. His strength erupted, blowing up their heads.

    Tan Feng¡¯s group of four met a swift demise.

    The elders of the two ns were thoroughly stricken with fear. Someone yelled, ¡°Quickly go! Run! Whoever can get away, just run! This little bastard is a dev...¡±

    Before the Tan n elder could finish his sentence, Chen Fan swept in like the wind, and the elder''s head exploded, his voice silenced abruptly.

    The remaining core nsmen, gripped by fear, abandoned any notion of continuing the fight. Scared witless, they scattered in all directions, stumbling over themselves.

    The Tan and Liu ns were defeated¡ªcrushed by Chen Fan alone.

    Chen Fan, however, harbored no mercy for these core nsmen, unlike the private troops who had ceased resistance. Their fate was sealed: Chen Fan had to end them.

    Despite their attempts to escape, evading Chen Fan proved futile.

    ......

    Everyone from Xuanyang City witnessed the Chen n¡¯s battle. Some people from other martial ns observed from afar; their minds were shaken.

    No one had anticipated the two ns¡¯ defeat, even with the intervention of their Yuanfu realm powerhouses.

    The Chen n had produced Chen Fan, who had beat the two ns to a pulp alone. Their Yuanfu realm powerhouses were killed on the spot, leaving onlookers incredulous.

    Chen Fan''s reputation in Xuanyang City had been that of a martial trash, born with an iron-like dantian.

    However, this battle shattered that preconception. Who would still dare call Chen Fan a martial trash?

    A Qi Grandmaster had defied the heavens, ying Yuanfu realm experts. Even those considered proud sons of heaven with exceptional talents paled inparison.

    Currently, everyone found the situation unreal.

    Chen Fan was too different from the image they had in their minds. They were like two different people.

    Henceforth, Xuanyang City would be under the dominion of those bearing the Chen surname.

 Chapter 160 - Confiscating and Exterminating Clans

    <h4>Chapter 160 - Confiscating and Exterminating ns</h4>

    Many silently expressed sorrow, refusing to believe that the situation was real.

    Was this really the martial trash Chen Fan?

    ¡°Your patriarchs are dead. Surrender now!¡± Chen Fan roared thunderously after killing Tan Feng and the other Qi Grandmasters.

    More than half of the two ns'' members had abandoned resistance, but a determined few persisted, resulting in significant casualties on the Chen n''s side.

    Chen Fan''s roar snapped the remaining soldiers back to reality.

    <i>ng, ng, ng...</i>

    The sound of weapons falling echoed as four to five hundred soldiers relinquished their spears and bows. Some even discarded their armor, prostrating on the ground, overwhelmed with fear.

    ¡°Mercy, sirs of Chen n, mercy, please! We¡¯re only soldiers.¡±

    ¡°Spare our lives, please. We¡¯re willing to join the Chen n and serve you.¡±

    ¡°I know martial arts. I¡¯m at the sixth level. I¡¯m willing to work for the Chen n. All I ask is to spare my life,¡± pleaded a captain, repeatedly kowtowing.

    Chen Fan had killed the patriarchs and the higher-ups of the two ns, including the Yuanfu realm overseers, Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan. Resisting any further would only mean death.

    Moreover, he could be considered half a talent with his sixth-level cultivation, a valuable asset in the eyes of any prestigious n.

    ¡°Hmph! Gather here and submit to the reorganization by the Chen n. Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and Wang Tieshan lead our forces and detain these individuals. Screen them one by one afterward.

    ¡°The elites and talents may stay if they pledge allegiance to the Chen n. Deal decisively with the stubborn ones¡ªkill or cripple them. As for the mediocre ones, strip them of their gear and send them back.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s loud voice resounded throughout the square. No one dared to protest.

    Immediately, the Chen n¡¯s veteran experts led the troops and encircled the surrendered core members of the two ns, systematically restructuring their ranks.

    With the destruction of the two ns, the Chen n would take over their businesses. The increased workload necessitated more personnel to manage the expanded territories.

    One unruly soldier, possibly a descendant from the two ns, resisted. Chen Fan dispatched a wisp of primeval qi with a flick of his finger, ending their struggle by piercing the soldier''s head.

    Thereafter, the surrendered soldiersplied without resistance. The troops disarmed them and escorted them one by one into the mansion.

    Meanwhile, Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and some other experts surrounded the remnants of the two ns.

    ¡°Xuanyang City now belongs to those bearing the Chen name.¡±

    ¡°Who could have predicted this oue? Chen Fan, alone, defeated the Tan and Liu ns, eliminating four Qi Grandmasters and two Yuanfu realm powerhouses.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n has produced a real dragon. They are going to rise to power.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless people watched as the Chen n¡¯s people reorganized their ranks in high spirits, their eyes flickering.

    ¡°I surrender, I surrender, don¡¯t kill me. I¡¯ll bring you to the Tan n¡¯s secret vault.¡±

    A Tan n elder''s resolve shattered when facing the formidable auras of Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing, and the others. He knelt on the ground, kowtowing and pleading for mercy.

    ¡°Tan Yancheng, you coward! How can you stoop so low?¡± A few defiant Tan n higher-ups, witnessing this scene, expressed their outrage with stomps and curses.

    "Well done. You''ve made a wise choice. Rest assured, I won''t take your life. I''ll grant you a prominent role in the future." Chen Fanughed, watching Tan Yancheng.

    Shifting his gaze to the stubborn elders, his expression turned cold, and he dered, "Since death doesn''t deter you... die!"

    Chen Fan flicked his finger sessively, releasing qi arrows that pierced through the brows of those elders, killing them instantly.

    The onlookers paled, their legs shaking in fear.

    Unable to withstand the pressure, more individuals knelt, kowtowing and begging for mercy, offering information about the locations of the two ns'' treasuries and more.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you lead our n¡¯s troops, head straight to the two ns, and confiscate their assets! From today onwards, the names of the Tan and Liu ns will vanish from Xuanyang City!¡± ordered Chen Zhengqing after crippling the cultivations of the Tan and Liu ns'' higher-ups.

    ¡°Yes, Father," responded Chen Fan, taking Tan Yancheng and a few others as he headed toward the mansions of the Tan and Liu ns.

    <i>tter, tter...</i>

    The Chen n''s private troops and even some servants immediately rushed toward the mansions of the two ns.

    The goal was to confiscate their assets and obliterate their existence. With the elders'' cultivations crippled, the ns were effectively exterminated. Failing to seize their assets would be a missed opportunity.

    ¡°Listen, all martial ns of Xuanyang City! It¡¯s a personal grudge between my Chen n and the Tan and Liu ns. No one shall intervene. Any n attempting to exploit the situation will face merciless death!¡±

    Chen Fan''s thunderous roar echoed through the streets as he raced with his soldiers, carrying Tan Yancheng and others.

    Immediately, the merchants andmoners on the streets hid after hearing that.

    However, some busybodies in restaurants peered out, observing the Chen n''s army speeding by.

    ¡°Fights between ns are indeed filled with blood. Best-case scenario, they weaken significantly, and worst-case, the n faces extermination, assets seized, and heads roll," murmured some spectators in the restaurants and teahouses.

    ......

    Tan n mansion:

    Most of its members had already defected to the Chen n. The mansion stood nearly empty, with only a handful of fifth and sixth-level experts remaining, oblivious to the events unfolding on the Chen n''s side and smiling.

    The Tan and Liu ns had joined forces to attack, and even their old patriarchs had gone, so the Chen n was bound to be destroyed.

    Inside a spacious hall, Tan Yunbao, his limbs crippled and cultivation crippled, anxiously awaited news of their supposed victory.

    Being cared for by servants, he turned to his sister-inw and said, "With the two old patriarchs gone, the Chen n must be wiped out by now, right?"

    A resentful look shed in Liu Ruyan¡¯s eyes. She nodded, saying, ¡°That goes without saying. The old patriarchs are already Yuanfu realm experts. Even if they went, they wouldn¡¯t need to lift their hands. They are merely there for suppression in case they make a life or death struggle and cause more casualties on our side.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to go have a look for myself. I want to grind that little bastard into the ground, humiliate him, torture him, break his limbs, and cripple his cultivation, then raise him in a jar.¡±

    Tan Yunbao¡¯s vengeful desires were fueled by the fact that Chen Fan had shattered his limbs and wasted his cultivation, rendering him a cripple.

    ¡°And there¡¯s also Chen Qingqing, that damn bitch. I want to ravage her ruthlessly, then sell her off to a brothel and let countless people have their way with her, free of charge!¡±

    Liu Ruyan said, ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, Yunbao, let¡¯s go over now.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡±

    Tan Yunbao nodded and shouted, ¡°Men, carry me to the Chen n. I want to see the look of despair on that little bastard.¡±

    Suddenly!

    ¡°Bad news! Chen n¡¯s army is here!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, how is that possible? Why would the Chen n dare toe knocking on our doors?¡±

    Suddenly, cries and chaotic footsteps erupted outside.

    Chen Fan and his entourage had arrived at the Tan n''s entrance.

 Chapter 161 - Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art

    <h4>Chapter 161 - Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art</h4>

    The Tan n''s mansion sprawled across an extensive plot ofnd, fortified with towering walls and massive iron gates.

    The guards left to defend the mansion were unaware of the defeat suffered by the Tan and Liu ns.

    Seeing Chen Faning with a huge group in tow, they quickly closed the gates, and the archers positioned themselves on the elevated walls.

    Simultaneously, numerous messenger pigeons and eagles soared into the sky from within the mansion, dispatching urgent messages seeking the return of the two ns'' armies.

    Unperturbed by these activities, Chen Fan seized Tan Yancheng and lifted him high. ¡°Listen up, Tan n''s guards! The Tan and Liu ns have fallen. Your patriarch and old patriarch have already died at my hands. Surrender now, and your lives will be spared. Otherwise, I will breach your gates and kill my way inside.¡±

    ¡°Ptooi!¡±

    A furious voice came from inside the mansion. ¡°Your n can never defeat us! How audacious of you to attack our Tan n mansion while our forces assault your n. Once our experts learn of this, they''ll return to exterminate you all!¡±

    Those within the mansion refused to believe that the two ns had been defeated and Tan Wanshan and Tan Feng had died.

    ¡°How stubborn!¡±

    Chen Fan stood at the front and suddenly grabbed at the air.

    In the square before the Tan n''s mansion, a stone lion statue, towering as tall as three to four people, was lifted and trembled under the influence of his formidable qi.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The colossal stone lion, weighing over ten thousand jin, streaked through the air like aet.

    It crashed into the Tan n mansion''s iron gates, shattering them and bringing down a substantial section of the towering walls, rendering their defenses useless.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Carrying Tan Yancheng in one hand, Chen Fan led the Chen n¡¯s private troops and fought their way in with an unstoppable momentum.

    Swiftly, more than a dozen sixth-level experts guarding the Tan n mansion were killed.

    ¡°Hear this, Tan n''s people! The Tan and Liu ns have fallen. Your patriarchs are dead. Lay down your weapons and surrender," dered Tan Yancheng when he saw Chen Fan mercilessly cutting down Tan n members.

    It was better to have one¡¯s cultivation crippled and live as an ordinary person than be killed.

    It was better to live clinging on to life than dying a good death!

    His words resonated, and the resisting individuals were shaken when they saw Yancheng¡¯s state. ¡°Elder Yancheng, is what you said... the truth?¡±

    ¡°Why would I lie to you? The Tan and Liu ns have lost. We were defeated. Surrender, and you might survive. Isn''t living worthwhile? Our ns are done for. Fighting to the end won''t change that!¡± Tan Yancheng yelled loudly.

    <i>ng ng ng...</i>

    The hesitant individuals were convinced. The truth of defeat was evident, as Tan Yancheng, an elder, wouldn''t be in such a state otherwise.

    ¡°Seal the entrance. No one in or out. Take control of everyone and initiate the confiscation of the n!¡± Chen Fan issued the order.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Chen n¡¯s private troops responded loudly.

    With high spirits, the invading force swiftly took control of the Tan n mansion, echoes of cries and pleas filling the air. Treasure chests were systematically carried out, highlighting the wealth amassed within.

    Tan Yunbao and Liu Ruyan were also arrested and thrown in front of Chen Fan.

    ¡°How is it possible, you... how is it possible?¡± Tan Yunbao shrieked, looking at Chen Fan, his cheeks twisted beyond recognition.

    He had just been fantasizing about torturing Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan now stood before him like an emperor. He held the power to decide his fate, having dismantled the once-proud Tan n and seized its assets.

    Liu Ruyan¡¯s delicate face was also drained of all colors. She looked at Chen Fan, trembling.

    With the Tan n in such a state, could the Liu n possibly avoid the same fate?

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t in the mood to pay attention to these two. He said to Wang Tieshan, ¡°Uncle Wang, just kill those who are resistant. Cripple the cultivation of the others and let them live on as ordinary people.¡±

    Carrying Tan Yancheng, Chen Fan strode forward. Coldly, he demanded, ¡°Speak, where¡¯s the Tan n¡¯s secret treasure vault?¡±

    Fearful of Chen Fan''s ruthless methods, Tan Yanchengplied. Under his guidance, Chen Fan navigated the depths of the Tan n mansion, uncovering secret passages one after another. Sure enough, he soon saw a radiant golden light and sensed powerful primeval qi.

    With a heritage surpassing three hundred years, the Tan n stood as the martial n with the deepest roots in Xuanyang City, surpassing even the Liu n in its foundation.

    With three hundred years of umtion, there was no telling how many precious treasures the treasury held. With confiscating assets from tworge ns, the Chen n stood to be well-rewarded.

    ¡°Young Patriarch, it really is a secret treasure vault," eximed Chen Lei, amander from the Chen n, his voice filled with excitement as he observed the pulsating primeval qi ahead.

    They had already carried out a lot of gold, silver, demon beast fur, and the such from the Tan n mansion, amounting to a fortune. Seeing the secret chamber in front of him spewing primeval qi, he felt as if he was seeing a mountain of gold and silver.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go over and take a look.¡±

    Chen Fan walked forward and saw a vast underground tunnel adorned with rare luminous pearls, its intricate traps disabled but indicating the sophisticated security measures in ce.

    Water prisons, arrow walls, iron stakes, de arrays¡ªChen Fan faced these intricate defenses and destroyed all with brute strength.

    The Chen n troops trailing behind him marveled at his prowess.

    Soon, Chen Fan led the troops and found himself in front of a stone door.

    Upon opening it, he discovered a wealth of Qi Gathering Pills and primeval stones stacked like a small hill.

    ¡°Woah! The Tan n¡¯s reserves run really deep!¡±

    Commander Chen Lei was shocked at the sight. Afterward, he became overjoyed, feeling that the Chen n would have a bright future ahead of them.

    Today, they had achieved great merits for the n and would surely receive plenty of rewards. Raising their cultivation to the next level was all but guaranteed.

    ¡°Move all of it back to Chen n!¡± Chen Fan ordered.

    These Qi Gathering Pills were the most basic pills and were of little use to him.

    However, they were like treasures to martial artists at the sixth level or below. The Chen n had quite a lot as well, but it paled inparison to the Tan n''s abundance, a testament to thetter''s three-hundred-year legacy.

    <i>Woah, woah.</i>

    Chen Lei and his group eagerly rushed into the vault, joyously ferrying the Qi Gathering Pills, primeval stones, and other treasures outside in chests. Every one of their faces was glowing with bright smiles.

    Chen Fan walked into the treasure vault and gazed around, scanning the area.

    ¡°What is this?¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell onto a tortoiseshell about the size of his palm at the corner of the treasure vault.

    Picking it up, he examined the densely written characters covering its surface, which were too tiny for him to decipher with his eyes alone.

    With a quick thought, he sent his primeval qi rushing into the tortoise shell. Immediately, the characters on the tortoiseshell floated up and grewrger in front of his eyes.

    ¡°Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art!¡±

 Chapter 162 - Harvesting the Fruits of Battle

    <h4>Chapter 162 - Harvesting the Fruits of Battle</h4>

    Yuanfu realm martial artists liquefied the primeval qi in their dantian and transformed it into primeval force before shaping it into a primeval vessel resembling a human abode. Each advancement in their cultivation level added a newyer to this vessel, creating a structure akin to a pagoda. In the nine-tier Yuanfu realm, this architectural progression corresponded to nine stories.

    Another fact was that Yuanfu realm experts could only have one primeval vessel.

    However, the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art challenged this norm. Utilizing their original primeval vessel as a foundation, Yuanfu realm practitioners could project nine illusory primeval vessels, amplifying theirbat strength ninefold. This technique, exclusive to the Yuanfu realm, transcended the limitations of one''s cultivation technique and seamlessly integrated with any approach.

    Take Chen Fan, for example. If he formed his primeval vessel and practiced the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel, he could project nine illusory primeval vessels in his dantian. When battling others, those nine illusory primeval vessels would erupt together, increasing hisbat strength by a terrifying ninefold.

    Even though he was just a Qi Grandmaster, he could already perform the heaven-defying feat of killing an early-stage, first-level Yuanfu realm expert. If he broke through to the Yuanfu realm, he could fight even second-level Yuanfu experts. Even if he wasn¡¯t a match for them, second-level Yuanfu experts could forget about killing him.

    If he advanced to the Yuanfu realm and practiced the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art, he could fight with nine times hisbat strength. This strength could easily kill a second-level Yuanfu realm martial artist and even contend with someone in the third level.

    ¡°This... Another secret art? My luck is insanely good!¡± Chen Fan was wild with joy inside.

    Secret Arts, unlike ordinary cultivation methods or martial skills, were elusive and bestowed extraordinary effects.

    However, ording to what was written in the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art, condensing nine illusory primeval vessels wouldn¡¯t be easy.

    Ordinary Yuanfu realm martial artists would struggle to condense even one illusory primeval vessel. Only those with outstanding talent and a strong physique could condense a second and a third illusory primeval vessel.

    The difficulty increased tenfold for a fourth, and condensing all nine vessels was as challenging as reaching the heavens.

    ¡°It¡¯s truly unexpected that an insignificant n like the Tan n has such a powerful secret art. If that old fogey Tan Wanshan had managed to form even one illusory primeval vessel, I would have tasted defeat. How fortunate, how fortunate...¡±

    Chen Fan felt some lingering fear.

    Unexpectedly, the Tan n had a precious secret art that could cultivate illusory primeval vessels to increasebat strength.

    If Tan Wanshan had cultivated an illusory primeval vessel and gone all out, he would have beenparable to a peak-stage, first-level Yuanfu expert. Not even Chen Fan could win against them, and it would have been impossible for the Chen n to win this battle.

    ¡°Very good, now this secret art is mine. The primeval qi in my dantian is already starting to liquefy and transform into primeval force. I¡¯m already a peak Qi Grandmaster. It will soonpletely transform into primeval force. I will start forming my primeval vessel then and try to break through to the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone. ¡°Mybat strength will rise explosively after I advance to the Yuanfu realm and practice the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art. I¡¯ll even be able to cross one or two cultivation levels and kill my enemies.

    ¡°It¡¯s a pity I can only cultivate illusory primeval vessels. If I could also cultivate illusory golden cores at the Core Formation realm... In three years...<i>hmph,</i> I could use the power of nine illusory golden cores. I could even fight someone in the Divine Nascent realm with Core Formation realm cultivation!¡±

    However, this was nothing but his fantasy.

    After all, illusory primeval vessels and illusory golden cores werepletely different, and this technique specialized in the former.

    Still, Chen Fan felt satisfied.

    With this Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art, he might not be invincible in the Yuanfu realm, but no one at the same cultivation level could be his match.

    ¡°Oh, right, Father¡¯s injuries are about to be healed, and Grandfather can also advance to the Yuanfu realm with the Realm Breaking Pill. They can also practice this Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art.

    ¡°Even if they can¡¯t form nine perfect illusory primeval vessels, their strength would greatly increase if they seed in forming even one. It wouldn¡¯t be a problem for them to fight against five people at the same cultivation level!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up, and he put away the tortoise shell, nning to find some time to study it properly.

    ......

    The hidden treasure vault shimmered with wealth, brimming with valuable items.

    There were various materials for forging weapons, demon beast furs, and other high-quality items.

    Aside from this, there were chests after chests of Qi Gathering Pills and primeval stones, emitting pure primeval qi.

    In a cold jade box were precious pills designed to replenish qi and blood, enhance intelligence, and purify and strengthen one''s constitution.

    ¡°The Tan n is truly a fat sheep. With all these items, our n members can produce many martial geniuses. Good, very good. And there is still the Liu n to go through. Even if they aren¡¯t as great as the Tan n, they shouldn¡¯t be all that bad.¡±

    A rare smile of joy surfaced on Chen Fan¡¯s face.

    Strength in istion meant little; the true pathy in elevating the entire n''s power.

    He would have to leave the Great Chu Empire andpete in the outside world, so he couldn¡¯t always remain in the n to protect it.

    Without a powerful expert overseeing the n, the n would be vulnerable to potential threats.

    Now, with these pills and primeval stones, the Chen n¡¯s overall strength would increase several-fold, and many experts would emerge in the future.

    Even if Chen Fan were venturing outside, he wouldn¡¯t need to worry about the n¡¯s matters.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Chen Fan clenched his fist. Three boxes came flying into his hand, each containing a demon core emanating boundless demonic power.

    ¡°Good. With these three demon cores, I can liquefy all my primeval qi quickly and try to advance to the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    Chen Fan, without reservation, retained the three demon cores for his own use.

    Despite having just produced a Yuanfu realm expert, the Tan n still had three demon cores. It was out of Chen Fan¡¯s expectations.

    After all, only tier-two demon beasts¡ªdemon beasts equivalent to Yuanfu realm experts¡ªhad demon cores inside them. In other words, three demon cores were equivalent to three Yuanfu realm demon beasts.

    This definitely hadn¡¯t been obtained by Tan Wanshan killing three Yuanfu realm demon beasts.

    Of course, they were a n with three hundred years of heritage. It wasn¡¯t strange that they had three demon cores.

    Others might be unable to use the demon cores and could only sell them, but Chen Fan didn¡¯t have such concerns. His fully-formed Heaven Seizing Furnace could easily refine their energy into pure essence of vitality.

    ¡°Move all the treasures outside. Back at the n, you will be rewarded ordingly!¡± Chen Fan shouted. The Chen n¡¯s private troops moved even more vigorously.

    Chests of treasures, servants, and n members were transported away from the Tan n mansion, forming a steady stream as they entered the Chen n.

    Aside from this, the two ns¡¯ businesses were quickly taken over at the lead of the Chen n elders. Close to seventy percent of the businesses in Xuanyang City had be Chen n¡¯s.

    Chen n¡¯s wealth increased by several levels.

    Chen Fan led people to confiscate the two ns¡¯ assets cleanly, leaving only tworge mansions behind.

    Of course, the two ns¡¯ mansions had also be Chen n¡¯s properties. No one dared to touch them.

    Currently, the Chen n¡¯s council hall was full of people. Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing, and Chen Tianxiong were all here.

 Chapter 163 - Closed Door Cultivation

    <h4>Chapter 163 - Closed Door Cultivation</h4>

    ¡°Everyone here deserves great credit for exterminating the Tan and Liu ns!¡± Chen Zhengqing, the patriarch, said as he swept his gaze around.

    ¡°Eternal Victory to Chen n!¡±

    ¡°Glory to Chen n!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated Chen n!¡±

    Aside from the elders of the Chen n, the troops¡¯manders and many more were also present.

    Everyone was in high spirits, their hot blood refusing to calm even after the battle''s conclusion.

    Chen Zhengqing held his hands out, signaling the crowd to quiet down as he continued, ¡°Our Chen n is undefeated only because everyone here fought together. You all fought tooth and nail to forge our glory.

    ¡°The Tan and Liu ns were wiped out. Our Chen n also took over their wealth and businesses. Everyone here made huge contributions in this battle, and all warriors here have achieved great merits.

    ¡°Now, our Chen n isn¡¯tcking in cultivation resources. Contributions warrant rewards. You can go to the Finance Hall to receive your well-deserved rewards. I hope everyone will take this opportunity to work even harder and bring your cultivation to the next level.

    ¡°Xuanyang City is now firmly in the grasp of our Chen n. The Tan and Liu ns¡¯ businesses are also now under our n¡¯s control. However, I will need you to oversee and develop the businesses.

    ¡°Our Chen n definitely won¡¯t be limited to this tiny Xuanyang City. We¡¯ll need to develop in Grade-2 cities, even Grade-1 cities in the future. You understand?

    ¡°I don¡¯t wish to see you people falling behind in the future. Just because we have won and have plenty of resources now, I don¡¯t want you all to lose your fighting spirit! Am I clear?!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s cultivation level would soon recover. And with that cultivation, he would be considered an expert even in a Grade-2 city. Naturally, he would be unwilling to live humbly in Xuanyang City.

    The Chen n also wouldn¡¯t stop its development here, and if it were to continue to grow and develop to the next level, it had to venture out of Xuanyang City.

    In the past, theirck of strength confined them to guarding their territory in Xuanyang City, but circumstances had changed.

    The speech made the blood of Chen n elders boil again, and they shouted, ¡°We shall follow the Patriarch¡¯s order carefully!¡±

    The stronger the Chen n became, the greater their influence, and naturally, their statuses would also rise.

    ¡°Very good.¡± Chen Zhengqing nodded.

    The Chen n¡¯s aura flourished greatly after the battle, with everyone¡¯s energies peaking. If they cultivated with some primeval stones and pills, they could likely advance to the next level.

    The Chen n''s peakbat forcesprised only three Qi Grandmasters and a dozen eighth-level martial artists. Though not weak, the n needed more Qi Grandmasters and even Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°Despite our victory, many lives were lost in this battle. Convey my orders: those of the Chen n who died, whether our descendants or troops, will receive an honorable burial, and a monument will be erected in their memory.

    ¡°My Chen n will support their family¡¯s living and provide their children with resources for cultivation. They are our Chen n¡¯s heroes!¡±

    ¡°Heroes!¡±

    ¡°Heroes!¡±

    The crowd shouted.

    Themanders of the private troops, some not n descendants but possessing decent cultivation, were moved by Chen Zhengqing''s words.

    ¡°Alright, everyone, attend to your respective matters and organize the estates of the Tan and Liu ns. Don¡¯t dy the businesses,¡± Chen Zhengqing said. The crowd nodded and prepared to leave.

    Chen Fan suddenly stood up and shouted, ¡°Hold it!¡±

    Everyone turned around and looked at Chen Fan, their expressions filled with awe and fear.

    Chen Fan''s prestige within the Chen n now surpassed even that of Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong.

    The two ns'' extermination couldrgely be credited to Chen Fan''s exceptional contributions.

    If it weren¡¯t for Chen Fan killing Tan Wanshan, Liu Shan, Tan Feng, and the others with his overwhelming strength, the Chen n would have been wiped out instead.

    Chen Fan¡¯s sharp gaze swept across everyone present. ¡°Chen Tianyin is dead. To the elders who used to stand by him, your decision not to betray the n at the critical moment is noted. I won¡¯t pursue the past matters. However, moving forward, any hint of disloyalty will result in merciless punishment!¡±

    Immediately, the elders who came with Chen Tianyin yesterday to demand punishment felt chills.

    Chen Fan¡¯s might had made him an existence simr to a god or a devil in their eyes. Luckily for them, he had chosen to overlook past transgressions. Otherwise, they would have faced dire consequences.

    ¡°Alright, go do whatever you have to. The n won''t treat you badly if you work well for the Chen n,¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    While Chen Zhengqing offered the crowd a sweet incentive, Chen Fan stepped forward, wielding the metaphorical stick, cautioning them against any mischief despite their n¡¯s newfound wealth.

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong watched on silently, smiling inside.

    <i>Chen Fan has grown up!</i>

    After the crowd left, only the three of them were left in the hall.

    ¡°You¡¯ve grown up, Xiaofan!¡± Chen Zhengqing approached Chen Fan, expressing satisfaction at seeing his son almost matching his stature.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you are your grandfather¡¯s pride," added Chen Tianxiong, his wrinkled face beaming with joy.

    Chen Fan smiled. ¡°Father, Grandfather, now that the two ns are gone, we¡¯ve obtained many resources. The n will enter a period of rapid growth.

    ¡°I suggest we identify individuals unquestionably loyal to the n, possessing significant martial talent¡ªwhether descendants or nsmen with different surnames¡ªand generously support their cultivation. Weck top-tier experts in the n.

    ¡°The eighth-level elders have grown old and exhausted their potential. Even if we support them withrge amounts of resources, they might be unable to advance to the Qi Grandmaster realm.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing nodded and said, ¡°Mmm, you¡¯re right. I was thinking the same. Chen n¡¯s future developments will be on the backs of the younger generation.¡±

    Chen Fan continued, seeing his father and grandfather on the same page, ¡°Father, Grandfather, I obtained a secret art at the Tan n. It¡¯s very precious. You should practice it, too.¡±

    Then, Chen Fan took out the tortoiseshell, and with a surge of his primeval qi, the writings immediately floated in the air.

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong looked over, and the longer they looked, the more shocked they were. They ultimately let out a long sigh, their eyes shining.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°How truly unexpected. The Tan n actually has such a secret art.¡±

    Chen Tianxiong said, ¡°Luckily, Tan Wanshan didn¡¯t practice it. Otherwise, the consequences would have been unimaginable.¡±

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, you should now seize the opportunity and breakthrough. Let others handle the n matters. Our n needs to be overseen by Yuanfu realm experts,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Xiaofan is right. Now that the matter with the Tan and Liu ns is settled and we¡¯ve obtainedrge amounts of resources, some martial ns will surely set their sights on us once the news spreads.

    ¡°Alright, then. I¡¯ll go into closed-door cultivation today and refine the Buddhist Bone Relic to restore my primeval vessel. With this Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art, once I recover my cultivation, we can gain a steady foothold even when we expand into a Grade-2 city.¡±

    ¡°Alright, since that is the case, I¡¯ll also go into secluded cultivation today and attempt to break through to the Yuanfu realm while my blood has yet to cool down!¡± Chen Tianxiong also said grandly.

    Thus, both Chen Zhengqing and Chan Tianxiong went into closed-door cultivation.

    However, this didn¡¯t affect the Chen n¡¯s operations.

    As for Chen Fan, he wasn¡¯t idling around, either.

    He refined the demon cores, turning their energies into vital essence, and he keptpressing the primeval qi in his dantian, liquefying and transforming it into primeval force.

    In the blink of an eye, half a month went by.

    Chen n¡¯s operations ran smoothly and orderly, while Chen Tianxiong and Chen Zhengqing were still in secluded cultivation and had yet to emerge.

    Meanwhile, a faint radiance enveloped Chen Fan''s skin like a water veil. His aura surged, indicating overwhelming strength.

    Within his dantian, all his primeval qi had liquefied, transforming into primeval force.

 Chapter 164 - Xiaobai Awakens

    <h4>Chapter 164 - Xiaobai Awakens</h4>

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t leave the n or his residence like a nobledy,mitting all his energy to cultivating.

    Relying on the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s terrifying refining ability, Chen Fan refined the three demon cores and absorbed their essence.

    Within his dantian, primeval qi surged like an ocean, revolving andpressing endlessly.

    In the deepest part of his dantian and primeval qi, liquefied primeval force could be seen.

    The three demon cores had an immense amount of vitality essence, nearly doubling Chen Fan''s primeval qipared to before.

    Chen Fan could take on Yuanfu realm experts with his Qi Grandmaster cultivation for two reasons: his strong physique and incredible primeval qi reserve that far surpassed the reserves of ordinary martial artists.

    Primeval force and primeval qi operated on distinct levels, where a mere wisp of primeval force could triumph over a substantial mass of primeval qi.

    Logically speaking, a Qi Grandmaster could never defeat a Yuanfu realm expert.

    However, Chen Fan just had too much primeval qi; it was unreal.

    His primeval qi had also mutated, acquiring lightning characteristics, rendering it more potent than that of his peers.

    He could rely on all these factors to defeat Yuanfu realm experts, a feat unimaginable for anyone else in his position.

    As the days passed, Xuanyang City returned to a peaceful state.

    Although Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing, and Chen Tianxiong were in closed-door cultivation, Chen n¡¯s day-to-day operations weren¡¯t affected.

    After about two days of chaos due to the change in leadership, the Tan and Liu ns¡¯ businesses also began operating orderly.

    Meanwhile, the other martial ns in the city waited with bated breaths. After all, no one knew what the Chen n had in store next.

    However, as several days psed, the Chen n appeared to have settled into a calm state. No news came from them, just like the old days.

    They feared that the Chen n would wipe out their ns and annex them next, making Xuanyang City theirs. However, it seemed the Chen n didn¡¯t have such ns, bringing relief to those closely associated with the two fallen ns.

    In the blink of an eye, half a month went by.

    Chen Fan had stayed in secluded cultivation for half a month.

    He had spent the time converting his flooding primeval qi into primeval force, causing a faint luster to emanate from his skin, akin to a flowing water curtain.

    Chen Fan peered into his dantian. The flood of primeval qi had all liquefied after constant condensation andpression, progressing his cultivation further.

    The conversion of primeval qi to primeval force had given him a qualitative leap in strength, with thetter possessing a fierceness absent in the former.

    If primeval qi was like a tree branch in a martial artist¡¯s hand, then primeval force equated to a finely forged sword treasure. The distinction in strength between the two was readily apparent.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone, and he pointed out with his finger.

    Immediately, a beam of primeval force shot from the tip of Chen Fan''s finger, creating a meter-wide crater on the marble floor.

    ¡°Amazing!¡±

    A hint of joy appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Despite the primeval force in his dantian being less than half of his original primeval qi, its power had multiplied several times.

    ¡°The next step is to form my primeval vessel and break through to the Yuanfu realm!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone with excitement.

    Ordinary peak-stage Qi Grandmasters would need a lot of time to form their primeval vessel even after all their primeval qi had liquefied into primeval force.

    For instance, Chen Fan''s grandfather, Chen Tianxiong, had spent years as a peak-stage Qi Grandmaster without forming his primeval vessel, highlighting the difficulty of progressing from being a Qi Grandmaster to a Yuanfu realm expert.

    For most, insufficient umtion of primeval force made all attempts to form a primeval vessel futile. However, this wasn''t an obstacle for Chen Fan.

    The primeval force in his dantian was several times that of other peak-stage Qi Grandmasters. He could try to advance to the Yuanfu realm anytime.

    He, however, chose to dy the process, opting first to deepen his umtion further.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly frowned. With a thought, a huge ¡°cocoon¡± appeared before him. It was the transformed state of Xiaobai.

    The cocoon was flickering rapidly, shing about ten times in a breath. It flickered very quickly and very intensely.

    Chen Fan sensed the vitality and the aura inside the cocoon, which were very powerful.

    He stared intently at the cocoon, his eyes shining. He mumbled, ¡°Could it be that Xiaobai is about to awaken?¡±

    Xiaobai had transformed into this cocoon state, and Chen Fan had learned that he could recover faster by absorbing demon beasts¡¯ blood. So, Chen Fan hunted many demon beasts to hasten Xiaobai¡¯s recovery. He had brought Xiaobai along even when he had entered the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t even know how much essence Xiaobai had absorbed from the fresh blood of demon beasts.

    If Xiaobai were to break out of his cocoon and awaken, Chen Fan didn¡¯t know what level he would be at.

    However, if he had to guess, he believed Xiaobai would be a tier-one, ninth-level beastparable to a human Qi Grandmaster.

    <i>Hum...</i>

    A humming resonance apanied the intensifying flickering, drawing in the primeval qi of heaven and earth, forcefully channeling it into the cocoon.

    <i>Thump! Thump! Thump!</i>

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan heard a vigorous, rhythmic heartbeat from within the cocoon, resembling the beats of a powerful drum.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t make any rash movements and just watched the cocoon. He was now certain Xiaobai was about to awaken; he felt happy from the bottom of his heart.

    Xiaobai had suffered severe injuries at the hands of Sun Wenshan because of Chen Fan, leading to his transformation into a cocoon state for recovery.

    Chen Fan regarded Xiaobai not as a mere demon beast but as a friend andpanion.

    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>

    Subtle cracking noises, akin to distant thunder, reached Chen Fan''s ears. Focused on the cocoon, he observed as hairline fissures appeared.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    The entire cocoon abruptly shattered like an eggshell, revealing Xiaobai.

    Chen Fan noticed a faint golden luster on Xiaobai''s fur, lending him a mystical appearance, though it swiftly dissipated.

    ¡°Kiki.¡±

    Xiaobai saw Chen Fan and cried cheerfully. He had also missed Chen Fan.

    ¡°Xiaobai.¡±

    Chen Fan grinned and lifted Xiaobai into his arms, rubbing his head vigorously. ¡°You¡¯ve finally awakened.¡±

 Chapter 165 - Clan Meet

    <h4>Chapter 165 - n Meet</h4>

    Chen Fan''s cultivation progress and Xiaobai''s awakening doubled the joy.

    Chen Fan walked out with Xiaobai in his arms. Some servants walking in his direction saluted and greeted him, and Chen Fan nodded with a smile in response.

    ¡°Ah, the Young Patriarch just nodded at me and smiled.¡±

    ¡°No, he smiled at me!¡±

    "The more I look at the Young Patriarch, the more handsome he seems."

    ¡°......¡±

    The maids passing by all felt excited, but it was understandable.

    In the recent battle, Chen Fan had disyed invincible might and overwhelmed the whole ce. He had forced even a Yuanfu realm expert to kneel before him!

    The transformation in his image, coupled with his innate handsomeness, naturally stirred the hearts of these maids.

    ¡°Young Patriarch," Wang Tieshan, patrolling with a team of soldiers, greeted.

    After achieving great merits, he had obtained plenty of rewards and advanced to the sixth level.

    ¡°Congrattions, Uncle Wang!¡± Chen Fan naturally noticed Wang Tieshan¡¯s cultivation at a nce and congratted with a smile.

    Wang Tieshan waved his hand and said, ¡°Compared to the Young Patriarch, I¡¯m so far behind.¡±

    ¡°Continue your patrol, Uncle Wang, I¡¯ll have a stroll around.¡± Chen Fan smiled and walked ahead, carrying Xiaobai.

    ¡°Commander, Young Patriarch has be even stronger.¡± The team of soldiers in iron armor behind him looked at Chen Fan¡¯s back, their eyes filled with awe and admiration.

    Wang Tieshan said, ¡°That goes without saying. Young Patriarch is like a god among us mortals. His cultivation speed isn¡¯t something we canprehend.¡±

    Chen Fan overheard what Wang Tieshan had and couldn¡¯t help but smile on the inside.

    <i>A god among mortals? </i>

    Only he knew the difficulties he had faced.

    As he leisurely strolled, people of all statuses treated Chen Fan with fear and respect.

    Currently, in the Chen n, Chen Fan¡¯s prestige was already above that of Chen Tianxiong and Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Fan¡¯s image of invincibility in the battle half a month ago lingered in every Chen n member''s memory.

    Their young patriarch wasn¡¯t a martial trash but a god in this mortal world¡ªa monstrous genius capable of defying the heavens, killing Yuanfu realm experts while being a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°Young Patriarch.¡±

    In a stone pavilion, Chen Fan met the new Grand Elder.

    Chen Tianyin used to be the Grand Elder, but his betrayal left the position in the Second Elder Chen Tianshi¡¯s care.

    ¡°Grand Elder, what is the n¡¯s situation like now?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    The Tan and Liu ns had deep roots in Xuanyang City, as they had been here for centuries.

    The Chen n¡¯s recent victory had helped them gain the two ns¡¯ businesses, but Chen Fan didn¡¯t know how things had progressed in thest half a month.

    Chen Tianshi said, ¡°Young Patriarch, the two ns¡¯ businesses are on the right track. Except for the chaos in the beginning, things have be orderly, and the businesses have started generating profit for the n.¡±

    ¡°Mhm, that¡¯s good.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded. He didn¡¯t have to concern himself with these things as long as things were on the right track. ¡°Grand Elder, with the new year approaching in three days and our Chen n dominating Xuanyang City, let''s celebrate with something special. Organize a n meet for our younger generation topete among themselves.¡±

    Chen Fan wanted to nurture a group of young, talented, and loyal nsmen. This meet would serve as an opportunity to identify those who were skilled, strong, and devoted.

    ¡°Of course, we won¡¯t limit it only to the descendants of our n. The descendants of the n¡¯s troopmanders can also join. The n will generously reward those who excel in the meet.¡±

    Chen Tianshi naturally wouldn¡¯t oppose the idea. He nodded and said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get it done right away.¡±

    At present, no one would oppose Chen Fan¡¯s orders.

    As news of the n meet spread, excitement erupted throughout the Chen n.

    Not only the Chen n''s descendants but even the offspring ofmanders like Wang Tieshan were thrilled.

    The younger generation in the Chen n, numbering three to four hundred individuals between twelve and twenty years old, expanded to five to six hundred when including the children of private troopmanders. Everyone applied enthusiastically to participate in the event.

    Three dayster:

    In the square in front of the Chen n mansion, magnificent fighting arenas were constructed, each stretching a hundred meters in length and width. Ten arenas stood in a straight line, apanied by rows of seats for spectators.

    These seats were now filled with people, and Chen Fan upied the best spot among the crowd.

    Chen Fan naturally wouldn¡¯t bepeting on stage. After all, given his strength, it would be unfair to others if he were topete.

    ¡°The n meet is about to begin! Today, we¡¯ll hold the qualifiers to select the top hundred participants," announced Chen Tianshi, causing the buzzing square to hush immediately.

    ¡°This time, we have six hundred and thirty people participating in the n meet. They will be divided into ten groups and assigned to the ten fighting arenas. Let the grouping begin...¡±

    Soon, the participants were sent to the fighting arenas.

    ¡°The rules of the qualifiers are as such. Each fighting arena will have sixty-three contestants participating in singlebat. The top ten in each group with the most wins will advance to the next round of thepetition.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze swept across every contestant, nodding to himself.

    The Chen n¡¯s younger generation had decent strength. The stronger ones were at the sixth level, and the weaker ones were at the first or the second level.

    ¡°Alright, each contestant should know their group and the rules by now. Let¡¯s have Young Patriarch Chen Fan say a few things to everyone,¡± dered Chen Tianshi.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Immediately, countless gazes fell on Chen Fan.

    Calmly rising from his seat, Chen Fan surveyed the crowd before he said cheerfully, ¡°I¡¯m thrilled that everyone participated in this n meeting so enthusiastically. All of you will be the pirs of our Chen n in the future. Our Chen n will depend on you to protect and develop it in the future. I hope to see more and more Qi Grandmasters in the n soon, perhaps even Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°I shan¡¯t bother with excessive pleasantries. I encourage everyone to give their best in this n meet, showcasing your talents and strengths. The n will generously reward exceptional performers. Now, let the n meetmence.¡±

    As Chen Fan¡¯s voice fell, the Chen n¡¯s n meet officially began.

    Immediately, fierce primeval qi ripples erupted from the ten fighting arenas.

    At the spectator seats, the Chen n¡¯s elders watched the younger generation exchange moves fiercely and energetically, nodding repeatedly and praising those with decent strength performing well.

    The others around the square also discussed among themselves.

    ......

    Meanwhile, outside Xuanyang City:

    ¡°Third Elder, we¡¯ve arrived at Xuanyang City.¡±

    A group of people appeared outside Xuanyang City.

    This group of people were riding tall and fit horses. Every one of them had vigorous auras and extraordinary cultivation.

    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived, huh...¡±

    The leader was an elder with a goatee, his gaze sharp as a de.

    Looking at the city wall, he clenched his fist, and a palm seal shot out, instantly bombarding the ¡°Xuanyang City¡± characters. The city wall crumbled, causing panic among those entering or leaving the city.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, trample Xuanyang City¡¯s Chen n!¡±

    The elder waved his arm with a cold expression, icy killing intent surging from him.

 Chapter 166 - Attacked by Strong Foes

    <h4>Chapter 166 - Attacked by Strong Foes</h4>

    ¡°Hmm? Isn¡¯t that Chen Qingqing? Third level? She¡¯s so strong now!¡±

    ¡°I heard the battle between the Chen n and the Tan and Liu ns started because the Tan n¡¯s third young master, Tan Yunbao, tried to publicly abduct Chen Qingqing. Chen Fan had just returned and saw it; he crippled Tan Yunbao¡¯s limbs and cultivation.¡±

    ¡°That is indeed how it went! Surprisingly, the sh between the ns stemmed from an incident involving a Chen n branch member!¡±

    ¡°In a short span, Chen Qingqing¡¯s cultivation had skyrocketed from the first to the third level. Rumor had it Chen Hai severely injured her, but it doesn¡¯t seem like the case now.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n¡¯s younger generation are all so strong. Five of them are at the sixth level!¡±

    ¡°No surprise there. With centuries of umted wealth from the two ns, the Chen n is rapidly developing. Their younger generation improving drastically is only natural.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd gossiped as they watched the intense shes in the ten fighting arenas.

    Chen n had harvested the two ns¡¯ wealth and taken over their businesses, so their strength and foundation were deepening by the day, producing experts endlessly. The Chen n was bound to grow stronger in the future.

    Some formidable rogue cultivators contemted joining the Chen n as their private troops, considering the wealth and opportunities they offered.

    After the battle, it becamemon knowledge in Xuanyang City that the Chen n didn¡¯t treat their troops poorly.

    They had generously rewarded their troops with Qi Gathering Pills, primeval stones, and spiritual herbs. Consequently, even individuals with different surnames in the n had recently experienced a significant surge in strength.

    In the past, one could be a captain in the Chen n with fifth-level cultivation. However, they needed a sixth-level cultivation now¡ªa direct proof of the Chen n¡¯s explosive rise in strength.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze swept across the ten fighting arenas asionally, sizing up the n''s younger generation and memorizing the names of quite a few people.

    He intended to prioritize nurturing these individuals, shaping them into the future force of the Chen n.

    ......

    ¡°Say, where¡¯s Chen n located?¡± demanded the elder with a goatee as he entered Xuanyang City with a group of followers. He grabbed the air, but a middle-aged man was pulled before him.

    Terrified, the middle-aged man stammered, "I-it¡¯s... southeast... from here."

    ¡°Useless!¡±

    The elder pped the middle-aged man, reducing him to a pulp. He then directed his Golden Horned Horse toward the southeast, resulting in chaos and screams in Xuanyang City as they galloped through the streets.

    Some people who couldn¡¯t dodge in time were trampled to death.

    ¡°Damn it, how bold of these people. They dare speed through the stree¡ª¡± Someoneined, but before they could finish their sentence, a streak of primeval qi shot through his brow.

    The onlookers along the street fell silent, fear evident in their widened eyes.

    Only when these people were gone far away did they begin gossiping.

    ¡°Who are these people?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re too arrogant. These people are too arrogant!¡±

    ¡°They... seem to be looking for the Chen n.¡±

    ¡°Are they nsmen of the Tan and Liu ns who were outside? That¡¯s not right. They look unfamiliar, definitely not from the two ns. Moreover, that elder with the goatee at the front seems menacing.¡±

    ¡°Go, go to the Chen n. These people harbor ill intentions. They might be from a prestigious n in a Grade-2 city, possibly here to seize the estates of the two ns!¡±

    ¡°Today... I seem to recall it¡¯s the Chen n¡¯s n meet. It should be very lively over there now.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Suddenly, a multitude of people sprinted toward the Chen n. The goatee elder''s group raced through the streets at a breakneck pace, indifferent to their surroundings.

    After about a quarter of an hour, they arrived at the street in front of the Chen n mansion and saw the bustling scene on the square from afar.

    ¡°Third Elder, the Chen n¡¯s mansion should be just ahead. I heard they have organized a meet today. Judging by themotion in the square, it should be right!¡± remarked a middle-aged man with a square face, gazing ahead with a cold expression.

    ¡°n meet?¡± The goatee elder''s eyes gleamed coldly. A sinister smile crept up at the corner of his lips as he dered, "If that''s the case, I''ll present the Chen n with a gift!"

    The goatee elder raised his hand and unleashed a punch.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A formidable force shot out like a cannonball, causing the air to explode. The booming sound echoed continuously, shaking the people on the streets to the core, forcing them to cough up blood as their organs trembled.

    The expressions of onlookers in the square immediately shifted as the thunderous booms reverberated through the air. Heads turned in rm as people frantically dodged to the sides.

    Unfortunately, some were too slow and were instantly reduced to mists of blood by the sheer might of the terrifying punch.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan also sensed the danger. He swiftly surveyed the scene, spotting the rapidly approaching punch; it seemed like a blink away.

    ¡°Looking to die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned icy cold, and he flitted over with a swish.

    Undefeated King¡¯s Fist erupted and collided with the oing punch. An explosive sh ensued, winds whipping in all directions and forceful qi surging outward.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    That terrifying force pushed Chen Fan back. His icy gaze fixated on the approaching group, particrly the goatee elder leading them. A profound sense of pressure gripped his heart.

    He roared out loud, ¡°Chen n¡¯s people, on guard! Enemies iing!¡±

    The Chen n members in the square swiftly took a defensive stance, exuding a palpable aura of hostility.

    ¡°Who are you people?¡± Chen Fan shouted.

    Those who hade bore no goodwill, and those with good never came.

    The attackers bore ill intentions, evident from their preemptive strike.

    Chen Fan had to use seventy percent of his strength just to withstand the earlier punch, underscoring the formidable power of the assant.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan?¡± asked the goatee elder coldly, his indifferent gazending on Chen Fan. He was also a little surprised.

    Given his strength, his casual punch could have killed a Qi Grandmaster even from a thousand paces away. Yet, Chen Fan had not only stopped it but emerged unscathed.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk. ¡°Who exactly are you people? What matters do you have with Chen Fan?¡±

    This group was powerful. The goatee elder and the middle-aged man beside him were in the Yuanfu realm. Behind them, three Qi Grandmasters and five eighth-level martial artists formed a formidable lineup.

    With such strength, they could stand firmly even in a Grade-2 city and develop a martial n.

    Chen Fan wondered if these people were from the Tan and Liu ns.

    ¡°Who are we?¡±

    The square-faced middle-aged manughed coldly. A portrait appeared in his hand, depicting none other than Chen Fan himself. His killing intent surged as he said, ¡°So, you¡¯re Chen Fan. Very good. Looks like we found the right ce!¡±

    ¡°You dare kill our Lin n¡¯s Young Patriarch. Today, we will destroy your Chen n. Your nsmen will pay with their lives for the actions of their Patriarch, apanying the Young Patriarch in death!

    <i>Lin n?</i>

    A sh of electricity suddenly ran through his mind. He was reminded of the person he had killed outside Qingyang County City, Lin Ba. [1]

    1. The rich arrogant guy from auction bidding for the same item as Chen Fan and tried to rob him afterwards. ?

 Chapter 167 - Lin Clan

    <h4>Chapter 167 - Lin n</h4>

    ¡°Lin n... Lin Ba!¡±

    Chen Fan''s mind sparked with realization at the square-faced middle-aged man''s words. He retorted coldly, "Are you from Watermoon City''s Lin n?"

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± The square-faced middle-aged man wore a proud expression.

    Watermoon City was a Grade-2 city, and their Lin n was a top-tier martial n there with several Yuanfu realm experts. Naturally, they did not regard the Chen n, a martial n from a Grade-3 city.

    The inherent sense of superiority that individuals from higher-tier cities possessed was evident.

    ¡°You¡¯re very bold, little bastard. You dare kill our Lin n¡¯s Young Patriarch. Did you think we won¡¯t find any information on you? Did you assume your actions went unnoticed?

    ¡°You sealed your fate the second you attacked. Your actions have brought a disaster upon your n, too! Today, everyone in your n will pay for the Young Patriarch¡¯s death!¡±

    Lin Tianshui, the square-faced middle-aged man, had made a cold deration with a cruel glint in his eyes. He regarded Chen Fan and the others as if they were already dead, his gaze predatory.

    ¡°Heavens, these people were indeed targeting the Chen n!¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear wrongly, did I? They came from Watermoon City? That¡¯s a Grade-2 city!¡±

    ¡°While I''m unfamiliar with Watermoon City''s Lin n, being a Grade-2 city''s martial n indicates a strength beyond what a Grade-3 city''s n could match! Developing a martial n in a Grade-2 city would require at least several Yuanfu realm experts overseeing it.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to be so bold as to kill their young patriarch. No wonder they acted so aggressively as soon as they entered the city. They are here to avenge their young patriarch!¡±

    ¡°The Chen n is facing annihtion. The Tan and Liu ns palepared to the might of the Lin n!¡±

    ¡°Fate sure loves ying tricks on people! The Chen n, having just eliminated the Tan and Liu ns and seized their wealth and businesses, appeared to be thriving and aspiring to reach a Grade-2 city. Unexpectedly, they''ve offended a martial n from such a city.¡±

    ¡°What a strong lineup. Two Yuanfu realm experts, three Qi Grandmasters, and five eighth-level martial artists. In particr, that elder with the goatee emanates a chilling presence; he''s undoubtedly no ordinary Yuanfu realm expert!¡±

    "Chen n''s rise and fall rest solely on Chen Fan."

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd heard the conversation between Chen Fan and Lin Tianshui and understood the situation.

    The Lin n sought revenge for their dead young patriarch, and the Chen n now faced imminent obliteration.

    Chen Tianshi and the others¡¯ expressions also changed drastically. These were formidable adversaries from Watermoon City, and their cultivation levels were imposing.

    Despite their limited numbers, they exuded a more overwhelming presence than thebined forces of the Tan and Liu ns. The once unshakable image of Chen Fan in their hearts wavered.

    Chen Fan had killed two first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouses, Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan, with unparalleled might; now, he was confronted by another powerful enemy seeking retribution¡ªthe Lin n from Watermoon City.

    The goatee elder seemed like the god of death to Chen Tianshi and the others. A cold gaze from him would cause their hearts to skip a beat.

    This person was much stronger than Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan!

    Although they didn¡¯t know this goatee elder¡¯s cultivation level, they were sure it definitely wasn¡¯t at the first level of the Yuanfu realm.

    Chen Fan could kill Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan, newbie Yuanfu realm experts, but could he kill Lin Zong? Someone stronger than a first-level Yuanfu realm expert?

    While Chen Fan stood as a deity within Xuanyang City, the Lin n''s arrival,den with murderous intent, sowed doubt in the hearts of the Chen n members. Fear gripped them before the battlemenced.

    Chen Fan naturally sensed the fear from the Chen n members behind him.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. With me here, no one can touch our Chen n!¡± Chen Fan shouted. His voice carried a strange power, injecting confidence into Chen Tianshi and the others.

    Lin Tianshuiughed disdainfully and said, ¡°You talk big, little bastard. Fine, I¡¯ll torment and kill you in front of all these Chen n members, plunging them into the abyss of despair!¡±

    With a disdainfulugh, Lin Tianshui rose from his Golden Horned Horse. Like a roc spreading its wings, he swiftly appeared in the skies above Chen Fan, swooping down with fingers curled like an eagle''s ws, exuding primeval force.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The air exploded beneath Lin Tianshui''s razor-sharp ws, unleashing a tumultuous qi wave and a fierce gale. The gale attacked those behind Chen Fan, draining the color from their faces.

    Lin Tianshui''s single strike sent them reeling, emphasizing his terrifying strength surpassing that of Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan.

    Chen Fan remained steadfast, unaffected by Lin Tianshui''s assault. He met the descending Lin Tianshui with a cold gaze and, in an instant, unleashed his full cultivation, executing the Undefeated King''s Fist.

    Lin Zong''s indifferent expression abruptly gave way to urgency. He shouted, ¡°Tianshui, retreat!¡±

    Simultaneously, his cultivation surged like lightning, his hand reaching through the air to grab Lin Tianshui.

    Lin Zong had quickly realized he had underestimated Chen Fan too much.

    However, Lin Tianshui felt it more profoundly¡ªa chilling sensation engulfed him as Chen Fan''s strength surpassed his expectations.

    The person he had disregarded actually had the strength to kill him.

    Chen Fan''s onught surged like a relentless tide, crushing Lin Tianshui''s counterattack and shattering his protective primeval force. The overwhelming force wreaked havoc within Lin Tianshui.

    <i>Crack, puft...</i>

    The sounds of bone breaking and organs rupturing rang out.

    Lin Tianshui was sent flying, vomiting blood and expelling bits of organs in his wake.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Although Lin Zong tried to save him, he simply couldn¡¯t make it in time.

    He grabbed and pulled Lin Tianshui back to him, but he barely breathed, his gasps outnumbering his intake. Even after stuffing a handful of spiritual pills into Lin Tianshui¡¯s mouth, he couldn¡¯t save him.

    ¡°Ah! You little bastard! Damn you! You deserve to die! I¡¯ll cut you to pieces myself!¡± Lin Zong roared furiously as his icy aura kept spreading outward.

    The cracking sound of frost forming reverberated in the air, and the temperature plummeted to freezing levels, sending an icy chill to the onlookers'' bone marrow.

    They hade to Xuanyang City to annihte the Chen n¡ªan insignificant n from a Grade-3 city. This should have been easy.

    Yet, Lin Tianshui, a first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse, had just died.

    Lin Zong felt like someone had doused him with cold water.

    An overwhelming killing intent emanated from Lin Zong, surging uncontrobly and reshaping the winds and clouds.

 Chapter 168 - Desperate Situation

    <h4>Chapter 168 - Desperate Situation</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s full-strength attack had instantly killed thete-stage, first-level Yuanfu realm Lin Tianshui, surprising Lin Zong.

    The Chen n should have been harmless rabbits at their mercy, but they turned out to be ferocious wolves, savage and cruel.

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s so strong, he killed a first-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse with one attack!¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t see Chen Fan killing Tan Wanshan and Liu Shan, so I didn¡¯t really believe the rumors. But now, Ipletely believe them...¡±

    ¡°That goatee elder¡¯s aura is so scary. At the very least, his cultivation must be at the third level of the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan can kill first-level Yuanfu, but he isn¡¯t a match for this person.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd gossiped among themselves.

    Considering their momentum, no one had expected the Lin n to lose a Yuanfu realm powerhouse so early. Moreover, Chen Fan killed him with just one attack.

    While that death was unexpected, the people were more worried about the fierce killing intent emanating from Lin Zong and the primeval force surging around him, their pupils shrinking violently.

    In Xuanyang City, a Qi Grandmaster was like a ruler in the people¡¯s eyes. As for Yuanfu realm powerhouses¡ªthey were considered gods.

    Lin Zong seemed even more terrifying than a god in their eyes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils also shrank to the size of a needle tip.

    He had to use every ounce of his strength to kill a first-level Yuanfu realm expert. However, Lin Zong was far stronger than that¡ªhe was at the third level.

    Lin Zong¡¯s aura surged, creating an oppressive force that made breathing challenging for Chen Fan. He felt like an invisible mountain was pressing down on him.

    <i>Thump! Thump! Thump!</i>

    Lin Zong advanced step by step, his aura intensifying and the pressure on Chen Fan escting.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation revolved violently.

    Activating the Heaven Seizing Furnace deep within his dantian, he set the rolling magma aze, unleashing a formidable strength that shattered Lin Zong''s oppressive aura.

    ¡°Die, you little bastard!¡±

    Fierce light rays shot from Lin Zong''s eyes, carrying an irresistible chilling intent¡ªabination of his cultivation and gaze, a unique method of attack.

    While unable to cause physical harm, it momentarily halted Chen Fan''s blood cirction and disrupted the smooth flow of his qi, as if frozen by the chilling intent.

    <i>Hum... hum...</i>

    Lin Zong rubbed his palms together.

    Immediately, several icicles appeared before him, spinning violently and humming. Suddenly, they shot out like bullets, tearing through the air.

    Chen Fan roared as his power erupted. Primeval force condensed in his dantian as his three heads and six arms struck out ferociously like a huge army charging out, shaking the space.

    ¡°Overestimating yourself!¡± Lin Zong said disdainfully.

    He waved his hand, transforming his primeval force into an ice pir. It broke through everything with a boom, shattering Chen Fan¡¯s three heads and six arms and hitting him heavily.

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    Chen Fan spewed out arge mouthful of blood, flying back from the impact. He even knocked down some Chen n members, giving rise to a wave of miserable screams.

    ¡°Young Patriarch!¡± Wang Tieshan shouted, eyes widened in anger, and rushed toward Lin Zong with a machete in hand. His qi and mes of angerbined, emitting green smoke as if he were fuming from every orifice.

    ¡°Nothing but an ant!¡±

    With a flick of his finger, Lin Zong sent a force through the machete, simultaneously piercing Wang Tieshan''s brow.

    ¡°Uncle Wang!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously, feeling as if his heart were bleeding.

    Though not a member of the Chen n, Wang Tieshan had been fiercely loyal and had a close rtionship with Chen Fan.

    ¡°Father!¡±

    Devastated, Wang Tieshan''s son and daughter red with endless hatred in their eyes.

    ¡°Do it, kill them! Leave no one behind!¡± Lin Zong ordered coldly.

    Immediately, the three Qi Grandmasters and five eighth-level martial artists from the Lin n rushed at Chen Tianshi and the others.

    ¡°Younger generation of Chen n, retreat. The others, join me and kill our enemies!¡± Chen Tianshi bellowed, channeling his cultivation and joining forces with a group of elders from the Chen n. In this dire moment, the Chen n found themselves with no avenue of retreat.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Chen Fan also shot forth, charging Lin Zong, his cultivation revolving to the limit.

    ¡°Chen n¡¯s younger generation, run! Quickly run!¡± Chen Fan roared angrily.

    Despite his frenzied attacks, Lin Zong easily dispersed them. Moreover, his counterattacks shattered Chen Fan''s bones, making him spew blood.

    Unfortunately, he was the only one among the Chen n members even remotely capable of fighting Lin Zong. Anyone else would die nearly instantly.

    ¡°No, we¡¯re not leaving! We swear to live and die alongside the Chen n!¡±

    Chen Qingqing and the other younger n members'' eyes turned red, their determination palpable even in the face of cmity.

    ¡°Get lost, all of you! You fools, what ¡®live and die with the Chen n?!¡¯ You¡¯ll only get to avenge our n if you live!¡± A Lin n Qi Grandmaster struck Chen Tianshi, making him spew blood.

    Despite the Chen n''s numerical advantage, their strength was severelycking. Even Xiaobai, a demon beastparable to a Qi Grandmaster, could only restrain two Lin n Qi Grandmasters.

    Chen Tianshi and the others still had to deal with the third Qi Grandmaster.

    However, were Qi Grandmasters that easy to take on?

    The Chen n elders were merely at the seventh or eighth level, so even when they all worked together, they could barely hold back the Lin n Qi Grandmaster.

    Aside from these three Qi Grandmasters, the Lin n still had five people at the eighth level. They were like tigers among a herd of sheep. The Chen n¡¯s experts and private troops fell one after another in a pool of blood.

    ¡°You should also leave, Young Patriarch. You¡¯re our Chen n¡¯s greatest hope. Anyone from our n can die, but you must not!¡±

    ¡°Thinking of escaping?¡± Lin Zongughed coldly, delivering a palm strike that sent Chen Fan flying. He then threw a punch at the n¡¯s younger generation, making the space tremble and the air resonate.

    Confronted with Lin Zong''s formidable punch, the young descendants of the Chen n found themselves immobilized, unable to move or dodge under the overwhelming aura. They could only helplessly await the oing force as if resigned to their fate.

    ¡°Damn it, your opponent is me!¡±

    Furious, Chen Fan activated the Wings of Rain Dragon and swiftly appeared in front of the force unleashed by Lin Zong''s punch. He met the attack head-on with his chest.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s protective primeval force was blown apart, and his chest caved in from the punch.

    ¡°Flying martial art!¡±

    Lin Zong¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw the Wings of Rain Dragon.

    ¡°Little bastard, hand over the flying martial art you¡¯re practicing, and I can let your Chen n¡¯s younger generation go. Refuse, and I''ll make you witness their deaths before your eyes!¡±

 Chapter 169 - Life Hanging on a Thread

    <h4>Chapter 169 - Life Hanging on a Thread</h4>

    ¡°They¡¯re done for. The Chen n is on the verge of copse.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. That goatee elder is ying with Chen Fan like he is a child. Just look at his chest. Who knows how many bones he broke?¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan''s immense talent allows him to defy the heavens and defeat a first-level Yuanfu realm expert while being a Qi Grandmaster. However, when facing a third-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse, he can do nothing but endure a beating.¡±

    ¡°The martial arts realm is harsh and brutal, where a misstep could lead to death or the destruction of one''s n, implicating everyone associated.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid everyone from Chen n is now feeling what the two ns¡¯ members were feeling before.¡±

    The onlooking crowd gossiped indifferently.

    In the martial arts world, the sight of ns being eradicated was somon that it elicited no more than a casual response.

    Today, you might be the victor, annihting the Tan and Liu ns, but who could predict the arrival of an even mightier adversary tomorrow, ready to destroy you?

    Among the spectators were individuals from the Tan and Liu ns, once formidable cultivators whose powers were crippled by the Chen n.

    Now leading ordinary, miserable lives, they reveled in witnessing the great disaster unfolding for the Chen n, their faces gleaming with smiles. Their eyes brimmed with resentment, and they wished they could personally rush forward to execute the Chen n members.

    ¡°Hahahaha, nice kill! Nice kill!¡±

    ¡°The heavens are watching! The heavens are watching!¡±

    ¡°Patriarch, elder, are you seeing this? Are you seeing this? Hahaha, the day of reckoning has arrived for the Chen n. The heavens have opened their eyes! Kill, kill, kill, kill them without mercy, kill everyone from Chen n!¡±

    ¡°Kill them all! Leave no one behind!¡±

    The remnants of the two ns gathered,ughing loudly and carefreely.

    The Chen n had wiped out their ns, and now, an even stronger n, the Lin n, wanted to exterminate the Chen n. How could they not feel happy?

    Even if they weren''t directly responsible for the Chen n''s downfall, witnessing its extermination brought them immense satisfaction.

    ......

    The Chen n couldn¡¯t be bothered to pay attention to the remnants of the two ns. Their focus was on preventing Lin Zong from harming the younger generation of the Chen n.

    Chen Fan bore visible injuries¡ªhis chest had caved in, his waist punctured with bloody holes, and his finger bones broken.

    Covered in blood, he looked as miserable as when he fought Wang Fuchen on Scarlet Cliff. Despite pushing his power to the limit, he couldn¡¯tpensate for the strength gap between him and Lin Zong.

    His attacks couldn¡¯t even touch a strand of Lin Zong¡¯s hair.

    However, a casual palm, punch, or finger flick from Lin Zong could leave wounds on Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan resembled a baby attempting to fight an adult.

    ¡°Go, run away! You stupid fools, why are you still standing there? So many people sacrificed themselves to help you escape. Do you want their sacrifices to be for nothing?¡± Knocked back once more, Chen Fan spewed blood, his tough flesh splitting open uponnding at the feet of a Chen n genius.

    However, a qi strand tore through the air, producing a noise as it pierced the brow of the Chen n genius.

    ¡°Little bastard, they can all forget about escaping. They can¡¯t leave even if they have wings. Today is the day your Chen n perishes!

    ¡°Now, hand over that flying martial art, and I may spare a small portion of your Chen n. Otherwise, you will personally see them all die one by one!¡± Lin Zong dered coldly. He clenched his fist; two Chen n descendants immediately flew through the air, and he grabbed them.

    ¡°You bastard!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot.

    <i>Puff, puff.</i>

    However, the response to his desperation was the sound of those descendants being crushed into blood mists.

    ¡°How does it feel, little bastard? Regretting killing our Lin n''s young patriarch now? Unfortunately, regrets won''t save the Chen n from extermination because of you!¡± Lin Zong taunted, grabbing two more Chen n descendants through the air.

    These people were like ants in front of him¡ªeven his breath could end their lives.

    ¡°Bastard, let go of my son!¡± pleased a middle-aged Chen n member at the sixth level. Lin Zong had caught his son.

    ¡°Die!¡± Lin Zong directly struck out with a palm.

    A terrifyingrge hand, formed from primeval force, descended, smashing the middle-aged man and everyone near him into mush.

    ¡°Father!¡±

    ¡°Little bastard, have you thought it through? I can do this all day!¡± Lin Zong said with a coldugh. He was no different from a devil in the people¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Tragic! Tragic! Tragic!¡±

    ¡°In front of absolute strength, even the Chen n ispletely powerless!¡±

    ¡°Where are Chen Tianxiong and Chen Zhengqing? The Chen n is facing destruction and has lost countless people, yet they are nowhere to be seen.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps they know that showing up wouldn¡¯t help the situation and have made their escape. After all, they can only take revenge if they¡¯re alive.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable shriek rang as an enemy Qi Grandmaster tore off Chen Tianshi¡¯s arm; fresh blood spewed out like a fountain.

    ¡°Grand Elder!¡±

    ¡°Grand Elder!¡±

    The dozen or so elders¡¯ expressions sank at the sight.

    ¡°Don¡¯t mind me, hold him back!¡± Despite losing his arm, Chen Tianshi, tough as ever, gritted his teeth and urged his fellow n members.

    Dark clouds gathered over the city, and a fierce wind stirred. A storm seemed ready to unleash its fury.

    Facing Lin Zong¡¯s threat, Chen Fan surveyed the many dead and injured Chen n members, a resounding determination building within him.

    <i>Power!</i>

    He needed powerful strength!

    Back then, in Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, he had experienced despair once when facing Wang Fuchen.

    He had gone all out at the risk of death to defeat Wang Fuchen, but it had all been for naught. Ultimately, he opted to jump off the cliff rather than perish at Wang Fuchen''s hands.

    Now, a different despair gripped him¡ªthe anguish of being unable to save his nsmen.

    The blood cmity had its roots in his actions, stemming from the moment he killed Lin n''s young patriarch, Lin Ba.

    ¡°Who is it? Who dares kill my Chen n¡¯s people!¡±

    Suddenly, a formidable aura surged from the depths of the Chen n mansion, dispersing the dark clouds and stirring the winds and clouds in the sky.

    Lin Zong sensed this aura, and his expression immediately changed.

    It was apparent that this force was no weaker than his own¡ªa third-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse was within the seemingly insignificant Chen n.

    A cold and fierce light shed in Lin Zong''s eyes.

    He brought his hands together, forming a circle. Immediately, all the cold qi condensed into an ice crystal spear covered in a pattern. It seemed capable of sealing the surrounding thousand miles in ice.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    The ice crystal spear left his palm and spun rapidly, tearing through the air and shooting toward Chen Fan.

    <i>Whizz, whizz, whizz...</i>

    The spear tore open the air, emitting a sharp whistling noise

    Chen Fan was heavily injured and was powerless to resist.

    Chen Fan couldn''t move an inch under the aura that could freeze a thousand miles. He could only watch as the ice crystal spear shot toward him.

 Chapter 170 - Emerging in Succession

    <h4>Chapter 170 - Emerging in Session</h4>

    <i>Whizz, whizz whizz...</i>

    The ice crystal spear tore through the air, producing a mournful whistle as it headed straight toward Chen Fan¡¯s brow.

    If it struck Chen Fan, he would die on the spot even if his head were made of iron.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± A thunderous roar rang out.

    A figure rose to the sky with a rumble and swiftly traversed a hundred meters in the blink of an eye. It was Chen Zhengqing, emerging after half a month of secluded cultivation.

    However, the location of his seclusion was a thousand meters away from the square. He couldn¡¯t make it in time to save Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan was about to be punctured by the spear, and even he began mentally preparing for death. Suddenly, the small golden person in Chen Fan¡¯s brow made a move.

    Radiant light enveloped it, infusing Chen Fan with a powerful surge that instantly alleviated half of his injuries.

    Chen Fan rolled to the side at thest moment.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The ice crystal spear pierced the square''s ground, scattering debris in all directions. Some fragments struck Chen Fan, causing another wound, though not a fatal one.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Chen Fan had dodged Lin Zong¡¯s killing blow, making him furious. He clenched his fist again, condensed another ice crystal spear, and shot it toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Thankfully, Chen Zhengqing was already in the sky above the Chen n mansion¡¯s main gates.

    With a decisive gesture, he summoned a scorching qi current that materialized into a fiery needle aze with fierce mes and sent it hurtling toward Lin Zong.

    Sensing the imminent threat, Lin Zong, rmed, redirected the spear meant for Chen Fan to intercept the iing fiery needle.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The sh between extreme cold and intense heat caused an explosion, unleashing a formidable wave of qi that forced even Lin Zong to retreat.

    Tap!

    Chen Zhengqing crossed tens of meters with a step, descending in front of Chen Fan. He said, ¡°How are you feeling, Xiaofan?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Father. Is your cultivation restored?¡± Chen Fan asked, noting the powerful primeval force emanating from Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Thanks to your Buddhist Bone Relic, my shattered primeval vessel has fused back together, and my cultivation... is restored!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing was trying his best to suppress the excitement in his voice.

    After almost seventeen years, he finally had his cultivation back.

    He had nearly given up after someone had broken his primeval vessel; now, he could see hope again.

    The power surging inside him made the excitement in his heart overflow through his voice and movements.

    ¡°This is great, Father, this is great!¡± Chen Fan said excitedly.

    ¡°That is... Chen Zhengqing!¡±

    The sudden change in the situation shocked the onlooking crowd.

    When they sensed the pressure emanating from Chen Zhengqing, it was like they had seen a ghost.

    ¡°How is this possible? Wasn¡¯t Chen Zhengqing a Qi Grandmaster? It¡¯s only been twenty days. How did he be a Yuanfu realm powerhouse, not to mention being about as strong as that goatee elder!¡±

    ¡°I heard that Chen Zhengqing was a genius of the Chen n about seventeen or eighteen years ago and was the first Yuanfu realm expert of the n. He was wandering around the Great Chu Empire, and something happened at that time. When he returned to his n, his cultivation level had fallen to the Qi Grandmaster realm, and he was riddled with hidden injuries. It seemed he had gotten into a huge battle, and someone shattered his primeval vessel.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Chen n has been searching for elixirs to restore Chen Zhengqing¡¯s cultivation level all these years. Could it be that they really found it?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Move aside, Xiaofan. These people are so bold toe to my Chen n and behave so atrociously, killing our nsmen. I won¡¯t let them go. Today, I¡¯ll use their fresh blood to celebrate the restoration of my cultivation!¡±

    As his voice fell, a violent gale swept out with Chen Zhengqing at the center. Lin Zong¡¯s pupils shrank, and his heart beat like a drum.

    The revtion of a third-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse within the Chen n took Lin Zongpletely by surprise.

    From the crowd¡¯s whispers and the conversation between Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing, he learned that Chen Zhengqing had already advanced to the Yuanfu realm over a decade ago. Something had happened that caused his cultivation to regress. Now, having recovered with the help of a Buddhist Bone Relic, he stood as a formidable force.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are. You dare kill our Chen n¡¯s people. Today, all of you can forget about leaving!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s voice was cold and carried his icy killing intent, sweeping through the square. Everyone¡¯s hearts shook.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    With thatmand, Chen Zhengqing''s figure blurred, his primeval force morphing into a fiery de that shed fiercely at Lin Zong.

    Layers of de qi streaked through the air, the scorching temperature twisting the space.

    ¡°Hmph, thinking ofpeting with me when your cultivation has just recovered? You¡¯re a little too green!¡± Simultaneously, an ice crystal spear materialized in Lin Zong''s hand.

    It violently collided with Chen Zhengqing''s attack, rupturing the air and triggering multiple explosions.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Chen Zhengqing and Lin Zong exchanged over fifty moves in just one breath of time. A tidal wave of qi surged, creating a chaotic symphony of explosions that echoed through the square.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The fiery de shed with the ice crystal spear again, resulting in a central explosion propelling both backward.

    ¡°You¡¯re nothing much, old fellow!¡± Chen Zhengqing pointed his fiery de at Lin Zong, expressing disdain.

    Lin Zong red at Chen Zhengqing with a gloomy and ugly expression.

    The current situation had spiraled out of his expectations, slipping beyond his control.

    Chen Zhengqing, having just restored his cultivation, could already contend with him evenly. If Chen Zhengqing adapted further to his regained strength, Lin Zong would likely be disadvantaged.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good! I didn¡¯t expect to have a breakthrough one day. Primeval vessel, form!¡±

    Just as Lin Zong was about to speak up, a wave ofughter rang out from the depths of the Chen n mansion.

    Subsequently, the onlookers witnessed the primeval qi of heaven and earth violently converging toward a particr spot. A primeval vessel, radiant with resplendent light, ascended from the mansion''s depths.

    ¡°That is... a primeval vessel!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, that voice earlier seems to be Chen Tianxiong. He... did he break through to the Yuanfu realm?¡±

    Everyone¡¯s gazes froze, their hearts shaken.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A silhouette shot out from the Chen n mansion and stood proudly in the air. The primeval vessel above emitted a dazzling light, captivating everyone''s attention.

    ¡°Indeed! It is Chen Tianxiong!¡±

    ¡°Chen Tianxiong broke through to the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    The onlooking crowd broke into amotion.

    It turned out Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong hadn¡¯t shown up before because they were both in secluded cultivation.

    Chen Zhengqing was recovering from his injuries and restoring his cultivation.

    As for Chen Tianxiong, he was preparing to break through to the Yuanfu realm.

    Now, the two of them have emerged from secluded cultivation in session.

 Chapter 171 - Overwhelmed and Killed

    <h4>Chapter 171 - Overwhelmed and Killed</h4>

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong¡¯s deafeningughter resounded like thunder.

    Once resigned to the belief he could never be a Yuanfu realm expert, his perspective had shifted when Chen Fan gave him a Realm Breaking Pill and a precious blood drop.

    With this unexpected assistance, Chen Tianxiong sessfully advanced to the Yuanfu realm, avoiding the probable failure that awaited him if he had relied solely on the pill.

    He had swallowed the blood drop at the critical juncture and seeded in forming his primeval vessel in one go.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Suddenly, Chen Tianxiong noticed his n¡¯s tragic situation.

    Surveying the dire scene in the square, he soared toward it like an enraged lion, his aura surging.

    ¡°Damn it, you bunch of people should die!¡±

    When Chen Tianxiong saw the numerous corpses of his n¡¯s descendants and private troops, a terrifying killing intent emanated from him, sweeping through the area.

    ¡°Haha, the old patriarch has broken through to the Yuanfu realm. Good, good, good. Our Chen n is saved. It¡¯s time for these scums to tremble in fear and meet their doom!¡± Chen Tianshi and the others burst intoughter.

    When Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong were in seclusion, they were utterly powerless to resist Lin Zong and the others. The enemy had killed many of the Chen n¡¯s experts and private troops.

    Thankfully, Chen Zhengqing had emerged from seclusion first and saved Chen Fan; not long after, Chen Tianxiong also emerged as a Yuanfu realm expert.

    Lin Zong and his group found themselves on the receiving end of fear, a sentiment they had aimed to instill in others.

    The three Qi Grandmasters and five eighth-level practitioners from the Lin n had already been at a numerical disadvantage and were hindered by the Chen n forces. So, they were especially afraid now.

    With the addition of Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong, the Chen n now had two Yuanfu realm experts. To them, this meant that they were at risk of losing their lives.

    ¡°How are you, Xiaofan?¡± Chen Tianxiong hurriedly asked when he saw Chen Fan; he had deep wounds and was covered in blood.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine, Grandfather. Kill these people. Leave none of them alive!¡±

    ¡°Alright, don¡¯t worry. None shall escape!¡± Chen Tianxiong nodded.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Father, you deal with those few people. Leave this old fellow to me. They dare kill our nsmen so they can forget about leaving today. This square will be their final resting ce!¡±

    ¡°Alright! Kill them!¡± Chen Tianxiong said, his decisive nature evident. One had to possess such decisiveness to single-handedly develop the Chen n to its current size.

    His figure shed, sweeping out like the wind.

    Immediately, the heads of those five eighth-level practitioners went flying, and pirs of blood spewed toward the sky.

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡± Lin Zong roared in anger,unching a punch at Chen Tianxiong.

    ¡°You¡¯re the one seeking death!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing, determined to thwart any opportunity for his adversary, unleashed fiery de shes, each attack exuding unparalleled fierceness and leaving a burnt scent lingering in the air.

    Having gauged their strengths in previous encounters, Chen Zhengqing now wielded his powers withplete familiarity.

    Resting on the ground, Chen Fan watched Chen Zhengqing''s ferocious strikes with fascination, recognizing the disy of a true expert.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Another miserable scream rang out. The Lin n Qi Grandmaster, who had torn off Chen Tianshi''s arm, met a tragic end as Chen Tianxiong swiftly crushed his throat.

    ¡°Ahhhh, the Chen n deserves to die and should be exterminated! Don¡¯t you know who we are? You dare kill our Lin n¡¯s people. You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Lin Zong was currently being suppressed and taking a beating from Chen Zhengqing, umting wounds. He saw another Qi Grandmaster from the Lin n get killed and grew even angrier, retaliating fiercely, but his efforts were futile.

    ¡°Old bastard, who cares if you¡¯re from the Lin n or the Wang n. You dare kill our Chen n¡¯s people. Just wait for your n to suffer destruction!¡± Chen Fan said viciously.

    Chen Fan¡¯s father¡¯s cultivation was back, and he still had the Sun Stone, so he should rise to the fourth level of the Yuanfu realm in the foreseeable future. Furthermore, if he cultivated an illusory primeval vessel, he could contend with a fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    A fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse was considered a top-tier expert in the entire Qingyang County.

    As for Chen Fan, he, too, would try to advance to the Yuanfu realm after this battle. If he seeded, his strength would rise explosively.

    ¡°Tieyang, Jinhan, leave!¡± Lin Zong was aware the situation was terrible for them.

    Since the Chen n had two Yuanfu realm experts, not to mention Chen Zhengqing¡¯s strength was above Lin Zong¡¯s, it was simply impossible for them to wipe out the Chen n. They could only try to preserve their lives and run away.

    Upon hearing Lin Zong¡¯smand, the two Lin n Qi Grandmasters fighting against Xiaobai executed simultaneous palm strikes, forcing Xiaobai to retreat as they escaped.

    ¡°You think you can escape?¡± Chen Tianxiongughed coldly and caught up to the two instantly.

    ¡°Everyone from Xuanyang City, give our Lin n a helping hand. When our Lin n¡¯s army destroys the Chen n in the future, we will not take a cent of Chen n¡¯s wealth and businesses. All of it will belong to you. Your ns will also receive our Lin n¡¯s protection!¡± Lin Zong urgently appealed, attempting to secure support for their retreat.

    If he stayed any longer, it was very likely he would lose his life here. The eyes of the nearby crowd flickered, tempted by the offer.

    ¡°Whoever dares to make a move will be killed without mercy! If they manage to escape, our Chen n will kill anyone who aided them and exterminate their ns!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s chilling voice resounded, instantly dissuading any potential coborators.

    ¡°Ahhh!

    Simultaneously, two miserable cries echoed as Chen Tianxiong swiftly slew Lin Tieyang and Lin Jinhan, the two Qi Grandmasters.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Our Lin n will never let your Chen n off!¡± Lin Zong roared madly, wanting to break free from Chen Zhengqing and escape.

    He was already no match for Chen Zhengqing alone. If Chen Tianxiong joined in the fight and took away some of his attention and strength, Chen Zhengqing would really have a chance to kill him.

    ¡°Won¡¯t let my Chen n off? My Chen n wouldn¡¯t let your Lin n off, either! Watermoon City¡¯s Lin n, is it? Rest assured, everyone from the Lin n will follow you after your death!¡± Chen Zhengqing said with murderous intent.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Tianxiong came flying over and joined hands with Chen Zhengqing, attacking Lin Zong together.

    Lin Zong was overwhelmed and struggled to maintain hisposure.

    The onlooking crowd was equally surprised as the unfolding scene diverged drastically from their expectations.

    Lin Zong and the others hade with an unstoppable momentum, wanting to wipe out the Chen n and avenge their Lin n¡¯s young patriarch.

    Despite Chen Fan killing Lin Tianshui in a single move, leading to retaliation and the death of many Chen n members, Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong had emerged from seclusion unexpectedly and saved the Chen n from destruction.

    Now, the two had joined forces, exerting dominance over Lin Zong. He was covered in blood, his flesh was torn, and he was surrounded by danger.

    Chen Fan and the others became mere spectators, witnessing the ferocious and ruthless joint assault of Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong on Lin Zong in the air.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable scream pierced the air as an arm was severed and sent flying¡ªbelonging to Lin Zong.

    Exploiting the relentless barrage of attacks, Chen Zhengqing seized the opportunity to chop off Lin Zong¡¯s arm with his de.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Lin Zong''s strength plummeted. Shortly after an unwilling scream, he sumbed to Chen Zhengqing''s fatal blow.

 Chapter 172 - Advancing to Yuanfu Realm

    <h4>Chapter 172 - Advancing to Yuanfu Realm</h4>

    The crowd''s minds quivered, and their hearts jolted as Chen Zhengqing decapitated Lin Zong.

    A third-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse, Lin Zong, had perished before their eyes.

    ¡°Victory to Chen n!¡±

    ¡°Victory to Chen n!¡±

    Surviving Chen n members, regardless of their injuries, cheered exuberantly at Lin Zong''s demise, their voices resounding through the air.

    Just a few minutes ago, they had been despairing, thinking their n was about to be destroyed. However, the Chen n ultimately united and killed all the Lin n members.

    ¡°The Chen n haspletely risen to power.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? They have produced a real dragon like Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing has now recovered his cultivation, and Chen Tianxiong has be a Yuanfu realm expert. With two Yuanfu powerhouses¡ªno, three Yuanfu powerhouses in one n... How scary!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fortunate we didn¡¯t make a move earlier. Otherwise, we might have faced destruction ourselves.¡±

    ¡°Though they defeated a few Lin n members, we shouldn''t underestimate the entire n¡¯s strength. News of this may reach Watermoon City, and the Lin n might send even stronger individuals to Xuanyang City.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd watched as the Chen n members cheered excitedly, their eyes shining.

    This incident would not conclude there. The Lin n, unlike the Tan and Liu ns, stood as a genuine martial powerhouse with foundations far deeper than the other two.

    ......

    The imminent threat of their n''s destruction dissipated swiftly.

    The Chen n¡¯s people began the cleanup, collecting the corpses of the fallen descendants.

    ¡°Father!¡±

    ¡°Grandfather!¡±

    Sounds of wailing and bawling rang out.

    Although they entirely wiped out the enemies, the Chen n had also suffered significant losses in the battle.

    After all, Lin Zong had been invincible until Chen Zhengqing emerged from seclusion.

    ¡°Uncle Wang.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up with difficulty. He watched as Wang Tieshan¡¯s corpse was carried away, his heart filled with hatred.

    <i>Lin n, this matter definitely will not end here!</i>

    ¡°How are your injuries, Xiaofan?¡± Chen Zhengqing asked in the hall.

    Chen Fan answered, ¡°No need to worry, Father, Grandfather. Apart from giving me some opportunities, the lightning strike also strengthened my physique and increased my recovery speed. There¡¯s nothing to worry about.¡±

    Sensing Chen Fan''s robust aura, Chen Zhengqing sighed in relief and asked, ¡°Xiaofan, what exactly was that about?¡±

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, this is entirely my fault..."

    Chen Fan recounted what had happened from beginning to end.

    ¡°So, it¡¯s like that!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong¡¯s eyes shed. ¡°You did right, Xiaofan! Lin Ba attempted murder and robbery. He got what he deserved!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Xiaofan. You did nothing wrong. You shouldn¡¯t me yourself," Chen Zhengqing added.

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, this matter isn¡¯t over yet.¡±

    An icy glint shed in Chen Fan''s eyes as he dered, "We lost many in this battle, including numerous young members. We must seek revenge! The Lin n cannot escape justice!"

    ¡°That¡¯s for sure. Our Chen n''s blood won''t be spilled in vain, and our people won''t die without retribution!¡± Chen Zhengqing said coldly.

    ¡°Alright, Father, Grandfather. Once I''ve healed from my injuries and reached the Yuanfu realm, we''ll gather forces and assault Watermoon City. We¡¯ll wipe out the Lin n to honor the souls of our fallen n members,¡± Chen Fan said.

    ¡°Mmm, alright.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong nodded.

    ......

    The tragic battle during Chen n¡¯s n meet had ended, bing the topic of conversation among Xuanyang City folks after their meals.

    Although the Chen n had lost many people this time, their foundations remainedrgely intact.

    Moreover, the battle served as a catalyst, inspiring the Chen n members to redouble their cultivation efforts.

    Chen Fan shared the same resolve.

    No more setbacks.

    Strength. He thirsted for immense strength.

    ......

    On a mountain peak outside Xuanyang City, Chen Fan sat in the lotus position.

    After a mere ten days, his injuries had fully healed. The primeval force in his dantian, more abundant and refined since the tragic battle, seemed eager to shatter the barrier and advance to the next realm.

    Chen Fan had, therefore, left Xuanyang City and was preparing to advance to the Yuanfu realm.

    Two demon cores appeared in Chen Fan''s hands. He ate them like candy, feeding them into the Heaven Seizing Furnace within his dantian.

    The molten primeval force circted, swiftly refining the demon cores into pure vitality essence.

    Chen Fan revolved his cultivation and attempted to break through to the Yuanfu realm.

    Inside his dantian, his primeval force was like the sea. The sea¡¯s surface was currently raging with waves, with lightning shing and thunder rumbling above.

    Suddenly, a vortex appeared. It sucked in vast amounts of primeval force andpressed it.

    In the Yuanfu realm, transforming one¡¯s primeval qi into primeval force was only the first step. Only by establishing a primeval vessel with this force could one ascend to be a genuine Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    Chen Fan was currently carrying out that second step.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The vortex of primeval force swirled andpressed crazily. A dot seemed to be taking shape in the eye of the vortex.

    The energy within the two demon cores transformed into primeval force and entered the depths of Chen Fan¡¯s dantian. The energy erupted fiercely inside him, prompting the formation of his primeval vessel.

    The eyes of the vortex gradually grewrger. Gradually, one could see that this dot seemed to be a ¡°mansion¡± that had shrunk to the size of a speck of dust.

    Primeval force acted as bricks and tiles, continually adding to and enhancing the mansion, making it increasinglyplete andrger¡ªan embryonic primeval vessel.

    <i>Hiiii... Huuu...</i>

    With Chen Fan as the center, an invisible force ascended into the sky, sweeping through the clouds as he breathed. White clouds entered the invisible vortex wherever the force reached.

    Chen Fan felt like he was on the verge of breaking out of his cocoon, about to transform.

    Suddenly, all the primeval force in his dantian vanished; he didn¡¯t have enough to break through.

    He still needed arge amount of primeval force.

    Without ample support, instability crept into Chen Fan''s primeval vessel embryo. It seemed to be on the brink of copse, threatening to thwart his Yuanfu realm breakthrough.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    Chen Fan was bbergasted.

    The depth of his umtion and the robustness of the primeval force in his dantian was several times greater than that of ordinary peak-stage Qi Grandmasters.

    Furthermore, he had even refined the energy of two demon cores to help with the advancement.

    The amount of primeval force should have sufficed to form two primeval vessels.

    However, he only managed to form half of his primeval vessel and could no longer continue.

    ¡°I mustn¡¯t fail!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone.

    This pivotal moment demanded a massive infusion of primeval qi; otherwise, his breakthrough would falter.

    <i>tter.</i>

    Immediately, Chen Fan took out thousands of primeval stones.

    Having confiscated the assets of the two ns, the Chen n naturally didn¡¯tck primeval stones now. Preparing for any eventuality, Chen Fan had also brought an additional five thousand primeval stones for his breakthrough.

    A thousand primeval stones shattered immediately. Their pure primeval qi merged, and Chen Fan, mouth wide open, inhaled, absorbing the copious primeval qi into the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    <i>Boom boom!</i>

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace revolved, refining away the impurities in the primeval qi and making a full cirction, turning them into primeval force and continuing the formation of his primeval vessel.

    Chen Fan repeated this process five times.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    After a while, Chen Fan¡¯s clothes suddenly puffed up, fluttering. A strong wind swept out with him at the center, and the debris on the ground rolled away.

    Simultaneously, a primeval vessel resembling the pce of a thunder god materialized above him, surrounded by twisting lightning akin to purple serpents.

    The primeval vessel soon returned to Chen Fan¡¯s dantian.

    The qi enveloping Chen Fan was harder than steel yet softer than flowing water¡ªpervasive yet unbreakable.

    This was the Yuanfu realm!

    With a single step, he could overturn the rivers and seas.

    After consuming two demon cores and five thousand primeval stones, Chen Fan had finally advanced to the Yuanfu realm.

 Chapter 173 - Heaven Piercing Spear, Illusory Primeval Vessel

    <h4>Chapter 173 - Heaven Piercing Spear, Illusory Primeval Vessel</h4>

    Chen Fan had finally advanced to the Yuanfu realm.

    Finally, he could sense theplexity of the primeval qi in heaven and earth and its treacherous and fickle nature.

    High up in the skies were countless qi current vortexes that could twist steel into powder.

    Chen Fan''s formidable strength surged within him as he took a shallow breath. Strands of primeval qi and the sun¡¯s essence condensed into fiery primeval qi, seamlessly integrating into his life essence.

    The Heaven Seizing Art, an unparalleled divine art, could plunder the primeval qi of heaven and earth for self-strengthening. It could also plunder all the power in the world for his use.

    The moment Chen Fan advanced to the Yuanfu realm, the small golden person deep in his brow radiated golden light. The light rushed into his sea of consciousness like a golden flood, turning into a massive stream of information.

    After a while, a glint appeared in Chen Fan''s eyes.

    Heaven Piercing Spear.

    The stream of information turned out to be a martial art, its tier unknown but undoubtedly not below the profound tier.

    <i>Buzz...</i>

    A buzzing sound echoed as qi currents simultaneously shot out of Chen Fan¡¯s every pore, akin to a steam whistle.

    As he rubbed his hands, his formless primeval force suddenly became tangible due to the high degree of condensation.

    Primeval force gathered on his palm; instead of scattering away, it experienced a qualitative change, producing a crunching sound. The primeval force solidified significantly, transitioning from a gaseous to a steel-like solid state.

    A simple and unadorned battle spear appeared in Chen Fan''s hand, seemingly crafted from stone and exuding an ancient aura.

    Condensing the primeval force into a weapon.

    The spear in Chen Fan¡¯s hand emitted an aura that seemed like it could pierce through the heavens, condensed by revolving his primeval force in a specific method.

    Heaven Piercing Spear!

    A martial artist at the seventh or eighth level of the Qigong realm could condense their primeval qi into weapons. However, it required intricate cirction routes, variousbinations of primeval qi emitted through acupuncture points, and adherence to their respective cultivation techniques to form the weapon.

    Haphazard attempts at condensation would result in weak and fragile weapons.

    In the Yuanfu realm, the weapons condensed using primeval force wereparable to treasures.

    For example, take this Heaven Piercing Spear¡ªancient and simple, with an inkstone-like texture. Its thick and oppressive aura resembled that of a god or a devil. The blood-dripping tip gave the impression that it could drag one¡¯s soul to hell.

    Brandishing the spear, Chen Fan appeared like a battle god dominating the earth.

    ¡°Heaven Piercing Spear, stab!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An enormous power was revolving crazily within him, creating vortexes inside. The vortexes released their strength, and that enormous power grew even more ferocious and concentrated. Upon activation, an explosive force erupted from his hand.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear streaked through the air, covering several hundred steps before hitting a mountain.

    The mountain, like a block of tofu, failed to stop the Heaven Piercing Spear. A noise rang out, and a pitch-ck hole appeared in the mountain, its depth unfathomable.

    ¡°How powerful! I doubt even second-level Yuanfu realm experts could surpass the speed and force of this spear''s pration," Chen Fan remarked, observing the deep hole in the mountain and the vaporized rock. He now understood the strength of the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted, executing this quasi-profound tier martial skill repeatedly.

    His qi revolved, and the afterimages of his fists piled up on a mountain as his punching speed increased.

    Every move tore through the air, leaving the ground looking like a massive ax had scraped past, shaving away a thickyer of dirt and rocks.

    Having advanced to the Yuanfu realm, the power of this quasi-profound tier martial skill, long mastered by Chen Fan, had elevated significantly.

    Chen Fan realized he couldn''t use the Heaven Piercing Spear casually to avoid exposing its capabilities and inviting potential disaster.

    He concluded that he needed to practice a few profound tier martial skills upon returning to the sect and entering the inner sect. Relying on the Heaven Piercing Spear in every battle would be impractical.

    His cultivation level had risen, but his martial skills were too poor.

    He had only practiced the Thousand Hand Seals, Thunderp Sword, Golden Light Palm, Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, and Heaven Piercing Spear.

    Except for Undefeated King''s Fist, which still held some utility, the other three martial skills were too weak for him.

    Although they were all middle-and upper-dirt tier martial skills, they were only suitable for martial artists in the Qi Gathering realm to practice.

    Yuanfu realm experts usually practiced martial skills that were profound tier or higher.

    The Chen n only had one profound tier cultivation technique. And their highest tier martial skill was only an upper-dirt tier one.

    They had confiscated two quasi-profound tier martial skills from the Tan and Liu ns¡¯ treasury. However, their powers were much inferior to the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, so Chen Fan did not intend to practice them at all.

    At present, what he sought were authentic profound tier martial skills.

    However, he couldn¡¯t rush out to get one. Chen Fan would have to wait until his return to the sect and entry into the inner sect to explore ways to obtain and practice them.

    ¡°Now then...¡±

    Although he had advanced to the next realm, he didn¡¯t return to the Chen n immediately. With a flip of his palm, the tortoiseshell he had obtained at the Tan n¡¯s secret vault appeared.

    He carefully studied the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art, memorizing some key points.

    About an hourter, Chen Fan shut his eyes and started trying to cultivate the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art.

    An invisible power enveloped Chen Fan¡¯s primeval vessel, making it tremble slightly.

    As time passed, the frequency of his primeval vessel¡¯s trembling became faster.

    Gradually, it seemed as if a hand had seized the shadow of his primeval vessel, violently trying to pull it out.

    An immensely potent ripple of primeval force erupted from the primeval vessel, coursing through Chen Fan''s entire being.

    ¡°Ugh!¡±

    Chen Fan let out a low grunt. Even with his tough physique, he felt a ripping pain from the impact. He took a deep breath and continued very carefully and cautiously, stopping immediately if any change urred.

    It would be a great loss if he couldn¡¯t cultivate the first illusory primeval vessel and made his real primeval vessel copse instead.

    Time passed slowly as sweat gradually covered Chen Fan''s cheeks.

    Within his dantian, the shadow of his primeval vessel was pulled out, even if only slightly.

    This development excited Chen Fan; an illusory primeval vessel, essentially the shadow of his original primeval vessel, began projecting out.

    One would need to expend much effort to pull out this ¡°shadow.¡±

    Chen Fan calmed himself and slowly pulled on this shadow bit by bit. The shadow underwent gradual changes, growingrger over time.

    Once the shadow waspletely out, it would be a transparent primeval vessel¡ªan illusory primeval vessel.

    Three dayster.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    As thest bit of the shadow was pulled out, an illusory primeval vessel materialized, standing beside the original primeval vessel. A boundless aura surged out from Chen Fan like a wild horse out of control.

    Then, Chen Fan opened his eyes; they shone with joy.

    <i>Sess!</i>

    The first illusory primeval vessel had been formed!

 Chapter 174 - Setting Off for Watermoon City

    <h4>Chapter 174 - Setting Off for Watermoon City</h4>

    Chen Fan''s dantian housed the original primeval vessel and its illusory counterpart, seamlessly intertwined.

    Despite its shadow-like appearance, the illusory primeval vessel mirrored every aspect of the original.

    One illusory primeval vessel alone doubled Chen Fan''sbat strength. Chen Fan could fight a second-level expert with his first-level cultivation without being at a disadvantage.

    <i>Condensing the first illusory primeval vessel was challenging enough. Cultivating a second, third, or more would be exponentially more difficult.</i> Chen Fan thought.

    While cultivating the initial illusory primeval vessel, the primary challengey in enduring intense pressure from his primeval force.

    Cultivating an illusory primeval vessel wouldn¡¯t be too difficult if his physique was strong enough, which it wasn¡¯t currently.

    He had reforged his physique with dragon blood and cultivated the Myriad Elephants Divine to the peak of the seventhyer, so his flesh was as tough as a Tier-2 treasure.

    Still, he had nearly failed while cultivating the first illusory primeval vessel, highlighting the arduous nature of the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art.

    Not just any random Yuanfu realm expert could practice this secret art. Attempting to cultivate it without a strong physique was akin to inviting death and suffering.

    ¡°Although it is challenging to cultivate, this bit of difficulty is nothing to me. After all, my physique will only be stronger and stronger. The eighthyer of Myriad Elephants Divine Art is close at hand,¡± Chen Fan muttered, his heart filled with confidence.

    ¡°I wonder how my father and my grandfather¡¯s cultivation is going on?¡± Chen Fan''s eyes flickered with a hint of worry.

    Before cultivating the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art, he had known the process would be challenging because it required a robust physique. However, the actual demand exceeded his initial expectations.

    His father and his grandfather didn¡¯t specialize in body cultivation, so their physiques were inferior to Chen Fan''s. Still, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t much worried about his father, who was a third-level Yuanfu realm expert. As one''s cultivation progressed, their physique naturally strengthened.

    Contrarily, Chen Tianxiong had just recently entered the Yuanfu realm and had a much weaker physique than Chen Fan. Cultivating the first illusory primeval vessel would nearly be impossible for him.

    Regardless, Chen Fan could only hope for his safety, as any mishap could lead to the shattering of his real primeval vessel.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been out for ten days. Now, it¡¯s time to head to Watermoon City to settle the score with the Lin n!¡± A fierce light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Adding up the time he used to advance to the Yuanfu realm and cultivate his first illusory primeval vessel, ten days had already passed.

    Chen Fan swiftly soared into the sky, traversing the air as he headed toward Xuanyang City.

    Now that he was a Yuanfu realm expert, he could step into the air and travel extremely fast, even if he didn¡¯t use Wings of Rain Dragon.

    However, should he choose to use it, his speed would double, propelling him as fast as the wind.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan descended from the sky,nding inside Chen n''s mansion without even arousing the notice of the patrolling guards.

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan," greeted Chen Qingqing as she approached. Witnessing Chen Fan''s descent from the sky, she couldn''t hide her delight.

    ¡°Qingqing, not bad. Your cultivation is already at the fourth level.¡± Chen Fan saw through Chen Qingqing¡¯s cultivation level at a nce.

    Chen Fan had used his precious blood to save Chen Qingqing, transforming her entire being. Her physical strength had significantly increased, apanied by a notable improvement in martial arts talent. Among the younger generation of the Chen n, she now held the highest potential.

    Ten days ago, Chen Qingqing was still at the third level of the Qigong realm; now, she was at the fourth level.

    While the Chen n''s support yed a role, her rapid progress spoke volumes about her inherent talent.

    Rubbing her head affectionately, Chen Fan encouraged, ¡°Cultivate well, Qingqing. Strive to quickly be a Qi Grandmaster or even break through to the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    ¡°Mmm, I won''t disappoint you, Big Brother Chen Fan.¡± Chen Qingqing nodded heavily.

    ¡°Xiaofan, have you already reached the Yuanfu realm?" inquired Chen Zhengqing, noting Chen Fan''s return and the imposing aura surrounding him. Although he couldn''t pinpoint Chen Fan''s exact level, a glimmer of surprise flickered in his eyes.

    Chen Fan smiled and nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right, Father.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s my boy, as expected of the dragon of our Chen n!¡± Chen Zhengqing expressed his joy, but a hint of pressure lingered deep within him.

    With his primeval vessel restored, he could resume cultivation, but Chen Fan''s swift progress meant that he could soon surpass his father. So, the pressure Zhengqing felt wasn¡¯t trivial.

    ¡°Congrattions, Father.¡± Chen Fan smiled and said.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s cultivation had also improved. He had broken through to the fourth level.

    Chen Zhengqing smiled and said, ¡°This is all thanks to your Sun Stone. Without it, reaching the fourth level would have taken me a year or more.

    ¡°I practice the True me Cultivation Technique, a fire-attributed technique. The Sun Stone''s essence of the zing sunplemented it splendidly, propelling my progress significantly.¡±

    ¡°Father, have you cultivated your first illusory primeval vessel?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    A brilliant light shone in Chen Zhengqing¡¯s eyes. He nodded and said, ¡°Mmm, I¡¯ve already cultivated the first one, but this Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art has too high a demand for one¡¯s physique. Cultivating one or two illusory vessels is likely my limit.

    ¡°Nheless, doubling mybat strength with even one is a significant advantage. I can now spar with a fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse, and no one at the fourth level should be able to defeat me.¡±

    ¡°How¡¯s the situation on Grandfather¡¯s side?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing muttered, ¡°Your grandfather tried to cultivate it for a bit, but the technique nearly overwhelmed him. Luckily, he managed to stop in time, or the impact would have shattered his primeval vessel. He¡¯s doing fine now and is recuperating.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. I would¡¯ve been a real sinner if Grandfather¡¯s primeval vessel shattered,¡± Chen Fan said.

    ¡°You silly boy." Chen Zhengqing chuckled. He knew that Chen Fan was likely ming himself for not anticipating the risks of the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art before encouraging them to cultivate it.

    ¡°Father, now that our strengths have risen, we should head to Watermoon City for revenge.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice suddenly turned cold.

    Chen Zhengqing nodded and said, ¡°You¡¯re right. Our Chen n members shall not die in vain. The people I¡¯ve sent to Watermoon City to collect information have also returned. The Lin n isn¡¯t weak, boasting a fourth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse and several first and second-level Yuanfu realm experts.¡±

    Chen Fan said, ¡°That fourth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse will be left to you, Father. Leave the rest to me. I have also cultivated an illusory primeval vessel. If I go all out, I can battle a third-level Yuanfu realm expert.¡±

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s not dy this. I¡¯ll gather the people right now and make our way to Watermoon City!¡± Chen Zhengqing didn¡¯t drag things on. He immediately walked out and started gathering people.

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing assumed leadership for the journey to Watermoon City, apanied by a contingent of skilled Chen n members.

    Chen Tianxiong would be overseeing the Chen n¡¯s home base.

    They had a deterrent force now that Chen Tianxiong had broken through to the Yuanfu realm. Even if they left, no one would dare have any designs on the Chen n.

    About two hourster, a group of Chen n¡¯s experts walked to the mansion square.

    ¡°Come, follow me to Watermoon City, wipe out the Lin n, and avenge our Chen n members!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing waved his hand, riding a Golden Horned Horse out of Xuanyang City.

    Immediately, a group of people mounted their horses and followed along.

    Their departure didn''t go unnoticed, creating a stir in Xuanyang City.

    The palpable killing intent emanating from Chen Fan and hisrades sent shivers through the hearts of onlookers.

    Word spread that the Chen n was en route to Watermoon City for revenge, but the oue remained uncertain.

 Chapter 175 - Settling Scores

    <h4>Chapter 175 - Settling Scores</h4>

    Watermoon City, a Grade-2 city in Qingyang County, boasted a substantial poption exceeding a hundred million. Itsnd area was three times that of Xuanyang City.

    In the southwest region of this expansive city, the prestigious Lin n''s grand mansion stood like a castle, showcasing the n''s formidable foundation.

    The Lin n''s Council Hall, spacious and adorned with opulence, currently housed several figures.

    ¡°It¡¯s already been half a month, but Third Brother¡¯s group still hasn¡¯t returned. Could something have happened to them?¡± An elder with an aquiline nose, Lin Ying, the Second Elder in the Lin n, voiced his concern in a hushed tone.

    ¡°What could possibly happen to them? Third Brother¡¯s a third-level Yuanfu realm expert, even stronger than you or I. That Chen n doesn¡¯t even have a single Yuanfu realm expert. What trouble could they possibly stir up?¡± said Lin Yao, the Grand Elder, who stood beside him.

    Lin Ying said, ¡°It¡¯s better to be safe than sorry. That mysterious person told us that Chen Fan from Xuanyang City¡¯s Chen n killed Lin Ba, but can any of you say with confidence he didn¡¯t have some ulterior motive?¡±

    Interrupting the conversation, Lin Hong, the Lin n''s Patriarch, said, ¡°Enough. Xuanyang City is merely ten thousand miles away from Watermoon City. A Golden Horned Horse can cover that distance in two days. It''s been half a month, so it¡¯s strange that Lin Zong hasn''t returned yet.¡±

    Lin Hong paused momentarily, looked at Lin Ying and the others, and continued, ¡°How about this? We¡¯ll send some people to Xuanyang City and check out the situation.¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    ¡°I agree.¡±

    Lin Yao and Lin Ying both nodded in agreement.

    Outside Watermoon City:

    ¡°Patriarch, Young Master, Watermoon City is just ahead.¡±

    Chen Fan and the others had spent two days traveling and finally arrived at Watermoon City.

    Upon seeing the city wall, towering over a hundred feet and seemingly endless in width, Chen Fan and his group were awestruck. The city seemed like an immense beast sprawled across thend.

    Standing at ten meters tall and thirty meters wide, the city gates buzzed with activity as people streamed in and out.

    Compared to Watermoon City, Xuanyang City was like a countryside town.

    ¡°As expected of a Grade-2 city. It''s far more grand and impressive than Xuanyang City.¡± Behind Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing were Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong, brothers in their early twenties withmendable martial talents. [1]

    With the n¡¯s strong support, their cultivation had improved by leaps and bounds during this recent period, reaching the eighth level. They were almost as good as the Grand Elder, Chen Tianshi.

    Given their talents, bing Qi Grandmasters wouldn¡¯t be difficult for them.

    ¡°Patriarch, Young Master, our Chen n will surely soar to the skies in one go after eliminating the Lin n.¡± Chen Yunchong sounded slightly excited.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go. Enter the city!¡±

    Their majestic entrance into Watermoon City attracted attention and whispers from the locals.

    ¡°Who are they?¡±

    ¡°They don¡¯t look familiar. They must not be from Watermoon City. Perhaps they belong to a n from another city, likely here to discuss business?¡±

    ¡°Discuss business? It doesn¡¯t look like it! I felt a cold, murderous qi when they passed by me earlier.¡±

    ¡°Murderous qi? You must be mistaken! These people are indeed pretty strong. I couldn¡¯t tell the strengths of those two at the front; they¡¯re probably Yuanfu realm experts. But the others... Their cultivation level is only at the eighth level at the most. They don¡¯t have a single Qi Grandmaster, so who can they kill in Watermoon City?¡± said a Qi Grandmaster with a chuckle.

    ¡°There are so many experts here!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, we just entered, but I¡¯ve already spotted five Qi Grandmasters!¡±

    ¡°Seventh- and eighth-level experts are asmon as cabbage here.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Upon entering the city, all, except for Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing, were dumbfounded by the spectacle before them, mouths agape.

    In Xuanyang City, a Qi Grandmaster could establish a martial n, and one could rarely see them out on the street.

    While Qi Grandmasters weren''t as abundant as river-crossing carp here, they were amon sight, blending in with the crowd like ordinary individuals.

    Aside from Qi Grandmasters, seventh- and eighth-level experts were truly all over the ce. In Xuanyang City, these martial artists stood as top-tier experts, exuding arrogance in their every step if Qi Grandmasters weren''t present.

    In Watermoon City, though, they were indistinguishable from the average popce.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Brother Yunchong, Brother Hualong, this is normal. It¡¯d be strange if we can¡¯t even see a Qi Grandmaster around in a Grade-2 city. Your perspective will broaden even more when you visit a Grade-1 city or a county city.¡±

    Chen Fan was also like Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong when he visited Qingyang County City for the first time.

    ¡°That¡¯s true. This is our first time going on a long trip and in a Grade-2 city. The furthest we¡¯ve been to are the Grade-3 cities around Xuanyang City, which aren¡¯t much different.¡± Chen Yunlong scratched his head andughed.

    Chen Hualong said, ¡°Now that our Chen n has gained power, try not to act uncultured in public. It''s embarrassing."

    ¡°Weren¡¯t you acting the same earlier?¡± Chen Yunlong rolled his eyes.

    Chen Fan stopped a passerby and asked, ¡°Uncle, may I ask where the Lin n is?¡±

    The passerby scrutinized Chen Fan and the others before narrowing his eyes. ¡°What are you going to the Lin n for?¡±

    ¡°To settle scores!¡± Chen Fan smiled, revealing two rows of snow-white teeth. However, the passerby felt an icy chill, as if facing a formidable adversary.

    ¡°I-it¡¯s... to the southwest," he stammered before hastily walking away as if Chen Fan were a cannibalistic devil on the prowl.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan looked southwest, his smile widening, but the chilling intent in his gaze intensified.

    ......

    ¡°Stop right there. The Lin n is a restricted area. Outsiders must leave immediately!"manded the guard stationed at the Lin n''s mansion gates. His voice was stern, and a cold gleam flickered in his eyes as he stopped Chen Fan¡¯s group.

    As a prestigious Watermoon City n, the Lin n''s private troopwork surpassed the Chen n''s capabilities. Take this guard captain of the mansion, for example¡ªhe was at the eighth level of the Qigong realm.

    In the Chen n, he could have been an elder. However, unlike the core experts, he found himself assigned as a mere mansion guard.

    ¡°Move aside. We¡¯re here to settle scores with the Lin n!¡± dered Chen Fan, his tone icy. Simultaneously, he unleashed his Yuanfu realm aura,pelling the guard captain to retreat as though struck.

    ¡°Yuanfu realm expert!¡± the guard eximed, his eyes betraying a hint of fear. Despite his intimidation, he steeled himself. ¡°I¡¯d have to trouble you to please wait here first. I¡¯ll go in and send the message.¡±

    "No need; we can handle it ourselves," Chen Fan dismissed, waving his hand and leading the group into the Lin n mansion.

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡± the guard captain bellowed upon witnessing Chen Fan and the others attempting to enter forcefully.

    1. They were briefly mentioned in chapter 160. Both are captains of the Chen n¡¯s army. ?

 Chapter 176 - Combat Strength Fully Unleashed

    <h4>Chapter 176 - Combat Strength Fully Unleashed</h4>

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    The guard captain''s shout echoed through the Lin n mansion, and powerful auras immediately emerged.

    ¡°Noisy!¡±

    Killing intent shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, and he flicked his finger. The guard captain¡¯s protective primeval qi broke immediately. A bloody hole appeared in the middle of his brow, and he died.

    ¡°Who are you people, to dare enter our Lin n mansion by force!¡±

    ¡°How dare you kill our n members! You''re asking for death!¡±

    The Lin n mansion''s guards swiftly arrived, their faces twisted with anger at the sight of their fallen captain.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Chen Fan wasted no words, his figure sweeping out as if entering a realm of invincibility.

    In a matter of moments, half of the patrolling troopsy dead, including a few Qi Grandmasters.

    ¡°Enemy attack, strong enemies are attacking us!¡±

    ¡°Hurry! Notify the Patriarch and the Elders. Yuanfu realm powerhouses havee to attack!¡±

    These private troops weren¡¯t idiots, either.

    Seeing Chen Fan kill so many people quickly, even killing a Qi Grandmaster with his finger, they realized that Chen Fan¡¯s group hade with ill intentions and weren¡¯t to be messed with. Some of them immediately ran deeper into the mansion.

    ¡°Bad news, something terrible is happening!¡±

    Lin Hong and the others had just decided to send people to check things out in Xuanyang City. Suddenly, a panicked messenger burst into the room, his voice echoing with distress.

    Lin Hong and the others furrowed their brows and shouted, ¡°Panicking like that, how inappropriate!¡±

    ¡°Bad news, Patriarch, something terrible has happened!¡±

    That person didn¡¯t care about Lin Hong¡¯s chiding. He shouted, ¡°Intruders are forcefully entering the mansion, ughtering our troops at the main gates!¡±

    ¡°What!¡±

    The news triggered an uncontroble release of Lin Hong and the others¡¯ auras, creating a violent gust that demolished the hall''s expensive furnishings.

    ¡°Damn it, they dare force their way into our residence andmit murder. Did they eat a bear¡¯s heart and a leopard¡¯s gut or something!¡±

    Cold killing intent rose in the fiery-tempered Lin Ying¡¯s eyes, intimidating the messenger and forcing him to kneel weakly on the ground while trembling.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. I want to see who dares toe to our Lin n and murder our kin!" Lin Hong''s voice matched the chilling atmosphere as he strode toward the mansion''s main gates.

    ......

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    Chen Fan had just killed two Qi Grandmasters with a palm when Lin Hong and the others arrived and sent a punch sting toward him.

    It was like a dragon, roaring ferociously, wanting to devour Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Zhengqing harrumphed coldly. With a stroke of his arm, a streak of True me Primeval Force shot out, directly shattering and dissipating Lin Hong¡¯s punch.

    Swoosh, swoosh.

    Lin Hong and the othersnded. Seeing the corpses strewn around, the corners of their eyes twitched uncontrobly. Their killing intents grew even thicker, and their gazes toward Chen Zhengqing carried a hint of sobriety.

    Earlier, Chen Zhengqing had dispelled the energy of Lin Hong''s punch with a streak of primeval force, showcasing a strength not inferior to his own.

    ¡°Who are you people, to daree to my Lin n and kill our people? Do you believe we are easy prey?!¡± Lin Hong shouted coldly.

    Although Chen Zhengqing made him ufortable, this was the Lin n!

    ¡°Your Lin n isn''t to be trifled with, but my Chen n is?¡± Chen Zhengqing responded with a disdainfulugh, simultaneously tossing a cloth sack toward them.

    ¡°Take a look for yourselves.¡±

    Lin Hong clenched his fist and unfurled the cloth sack. Its contents made him unleash a killing intent that seemed to pierce through heaven and earth.

    ¡°Lin Zong, Lin Tianshui...¡±

    The cloth sack contained the heads of Lin Zong and the others.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Lin Yao and Lin Ying peeked their heads over to take a look. Instantly, the killing intenting from them boiled over uncontrobly.

    ¡°Third Brother!¡±

    ¡°Chen n...¡±

    Lin Hong''s gaze turned frigid as he locked eyes with Chen Zhengqing, the killing intent in his stare seemingly capable of consuming souls.

    It was no wonder Lin Zong¡¯s group hadn¡¯t returned in half a month. It turned out they had all died!

    ¡°You people are from Xuanyang City¡¯s Chen n!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! You sent people to Xuanyang City to kill my son and wipe out my Chen n. Now, we¡¯re here to settle the scores!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing''s voice rang out, apanied by the unfurling of his fourth-level Yuanfu realm aura, creating a mighty force field that enveloped everything.

    ¡°Fourth-level Yuanfu realm!¡±

    Lin Hong¡¯s pupils immediately shrunk violently.

    Lin Yao, Lin Ying, and the others¡¯ hearts also trembled.

    Fourth-level Yuanfu realm. How could a powerhouse like him be in a humble n from a Grade-3 city?

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Two more figures descended, joining Lin Hong''s group with solemn expressions. ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    As a prestigious n of Watermoon City, the Lin n¡¯s foundations were naturally strong. If Lin Zong and Lin Tianshui hadn¡¯t fallen in battle, they would have had seven Yuanfu realm powerhouses dominating the area.

    ¡°Today. Lin n. Destroy!¡± Chen Fan dered, stepping forward and unleashing his first-level Yuanfu realm aura, spreading it in all directions.

    ¡°You... you¡¯re Chen Fan. You¡¯re the one who killed my Ba¡¯er!¡± [1]

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I killed him. He dared to think about robbing me when he was that weak. He was just courting death!¡± Chen Fan didn¡¯t deny it and said coldly.

    ¡°Good, good. I thought sending our Third Elder to Xuanyang City would be enough to wipe out your Chen n. Clearly, I underestimated you people. A tiny n from a mere Grade-3 city actually has two Yuanfu realm powerhouses. Very well! Very well!¡±

    Lin Hong''s smile held extreme anger, his gaze chillingly cold. ¡°That¡¯s fine. Since you came knocking on our doors, then forget about returning! Lin Ying, join me. Let''s kill them!"

    As Lin Hong''smand echoed, Lin Hong and Lin Ying charged at Chen Zhengqing simultaneously.

    With one at the fourth level and the other at the third level of the Yuanfu realm, they believed they could easily handle a fourth-level Yuanfu realm opponent together.

    As for Chen Fan, he was a mere first-level Yuanfu realm, and yet he dared to talk big about wiping out their Lin n. Howughable!

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Grand Elder Lin Yao also charged forward, aiming for Chen Fan.

    The remaining two first-level Yuanfu realm experts shed with Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and the others.

    ¡°Father!¡± Chen Fan shouted, seeing Lin Hong and Lin Ying taking on Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Rest assured. They are at the early stage of the fourth and third levels. They aren¡¯t a match for me!¡±

    Chen Fan felt relieved inside.

    Although Chen Zhengqing was also at the early stage of the fourth level, he had cultivated an illusory primeval vessel. If he went all out, opponents at the early stage of the third and fourth levels would have difficulty defeating him.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t stand around, either. His cultivation burst forth, and his aura soared. Primeval force erupted violently in his primeval vessel, and he also activated the power of the illusory primeval vessel, holding nothing back.

    With a grab of his hand, a stream of primeval force directly enveloped the two first-level Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°Your opponent is me!¡±

    The two were originally going to ughter Chen Yunlong, Chen Hualong, and the others. However, Chen Fan¡¯s stream of primeval force immediately made them feel an iparable danger. They were forced to use their cultivation to block the blow.

    ¡°You¡¯re too arrogant, little bastard. Die!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan audaciously taking on three opponents, including a second-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse, Lin Yao roared furiously. Driven by anger, heunched an attack, wielding a primeval qi sledgehammer with tremendous force.

    1. ¡®er is another term of endearment. Referring to Lin Ba here. ?

 Chapter 177 - Crushed One-sidedly

    <h4>Chapter 177 - Crushed One-sidedly</h4>

    ¡°Die, you little bastard!¡± Lin Yao erupted into a rage, as Chen Fan had dared to underestimate him. His primeval force erupted violently, and he raised his hand. He created a primeval qi sledgehammer and brought it down on Chen Fan.

    Meanwhile, the two first-level Yuanfu realm experts, Lin Tianzhen and Lin Yongchun, nullified Chen Fan¡¯s attack with a palm strike and joined Lin Yao in attacking Chen Fan.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Despite being encircled by three Yuanfu realm experts, Chen Fan showed no signs of panic or fear. Three heads and six arms manifested on his back, delivering powerful strikes with thunderous precision.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Explosions resonated as Lin Yao''s primeval qi sledgehammer shattered into fragments. A formidable force prated Lin Yao, riddling him with internal injuries and forcing him to retreat, blood spewing from his mouth.

    Lin Tianzhen and Lin Yongchun had recently advanced to the Yuanfu realm, so they were much weaker than Lin Yao. Chen Fan''s ferocious bombardment snapped their tendons and broke their bones, sending them flying.

    ¡°Tianzhen, Yongchun!¡±

    Lin Yao hurriedly yelled out when he saw Lin Tianzhen and Lin Yongchun smashing a wall to pieces and getting buried under the debris.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have the luxury of worrying about others!¡± Chen Fanughed coldly as he stepped forth, instantly arriving before Lin Yao.

    The flurry of attacks from Chen Fan''s three heads and six arms whistled like meteors, making the surrounding space violently quake as the fierce wind howled.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Lin Yao¡¯s expression turned hideous. He roared furiously, pushing his cultivation to the limits. His primeval vessel materialized above him, the primeval force within aze.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    An explosive power erupted as the primeval force inside his vessel ignited

    Lin Yao¡¯s aura suddenly skyrocketed. His palms turned into a blur and sted out, every strike carrying enough power to crush stones, enveloping the space.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Chen Fan, undeterred, struck out fiercely with his six arms, shaking heaven and earth. Even the sun and the moon seemed to tremble under his relentless attacks.

    He utilized his cultivation to the utmost, and the power of the illusory primeval vessel erupted alongside his formidable physique. Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t be disadvantaged even against a third-level Yuanfu realm expert, let alone someone at the second level like Lin Yao.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof!</i>

    Chen Fan''s unbridled attacks shattered the formidable strikes fueled by Lin Yao''s ignited primeval force as if they were made of paper.

    Waves of power poured out, striking Lin Yao like an invisible sledgehammer, forcing him to retreat and spew blood.

    ¡°Impossible! How are you so strong!¡± Lin Yao shrieked in anger.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was only at the first level of the Yuanfu realm. Moreover, he could sense that Chen Fan had only recently broken through to the Yuanfu realm. How was someone like him forcing Lin Yao to retreat?

    ¡°Making a fuss about nothing. You are just too weak.¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly. His attacks continued unceasingly and violently.

    A punch broke through Lin Yao¡¯s protective primeval force and struck his chest. Immediately, the sounds of bones breaking rang out, and he was knocked back, crashing into a rock garden.

    Chen Fan now held an overwhelming advantage, a situation mirrored by Chen Zhengqing.

    With Lin Hong at the fourth level and Lin Ying at the third level, it should have been an easy victory for them.

    However, the situation waspletely different in Chen Zhengqing¡¯s case.

    In front of Chen Zhengqing, the two were like the three Yuanfu realm experts fighting against Chen Fan¡ªoverpowered and struggling to defend.

    This discrepancy was particrly pronounced for Lin Ying, with his lower cultivation. Under Chen Zhengqing¡¯s assaults, he found himself in a pitiful state, severely injured.

    Witnessing Chen Zhengqing effortlessly handling the two opponents, Chen Fan felt a sense of relief.

    He nced in Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and the others¡¯ direction and shot primeval force like arrows.

    ¡°Ahhhh...¡±

    The eighth- and ninth-level Qigong experts from the Lin n died near-instantly, significantly reducing the pressure on Chen Yunchong and the others, while their momentum grew even fiercer.

    ......

    ¡°This is...¡±

    ¡°Someone dared to attack the Lin n!¡±

    ¡°How is that possible? The Lin n has five Yuanfu realm powerhouses, yet they¡¯re no match for those two!¡±

    ¡°Who are they? They¡¯re insanely strong! Especially that young man. It looks like he has just be a Yuanfu realm expert, but hisbat strength is much higher than Lin Yao, a second-level Yuanfu realm expert.¡±

    ¡°Earlier, I heard Lin Hong and the others say something about Xuanyang City and the Chen n...¡±

    ¡°Xuanyang City? Rings a bell. It''s a Grade-3 city!¡±

    "A n from a Grade-3 city managing to overpower the Lin n? Inconceivable!"

    ¡°......¡±

    The violent ripples from the fight naturally couldn¡¯t be hidden from the perception of the Yuanfu realm experts in Watermoon City. They rose into the air and flew over one after another, stopping mid-air some distance away and watching from afar.

    Yuanfu realm experts had very sharp eyesight. They could clearly see an ant on the ground from five thousand steps away.

    Naturally, they could clearly see themotion inside the Lin n.

    However, the scene left their hearts shaken.

    The Lin n wasn''t a small entity in Watermoon City; it was a prestigious n with seven Yuanfu realm experts overseeing its affairs. Lin Hong, their patriarch, stood at the fourth level of the Yuanfu realm, ranking among the top ten in Watermoon City.

    None had anticipated that a day would dawn when trouble sought the doors of Watermoon City''s Lin n. It was one thing for someone to seek confrontation, but the fact that Lin Hong and the others were overpowered added anotheryer of astonishment.

    ¡°Even if a n from a Grade-3 city has Yuanfu realm experts, they really have a lot of guts to daree to Watermoon City and kill their way into the Lin n!¡±

    ¡°I heard Lin n¡¯s Young Patriarch Lin Ba previously went to Qingyang County City for an auction to purchase a Realm Breaking Pill but was robbed and killed. The Lin n found out the murderer¡¯s identity a few weeks ago. They sent Lin Zong, Lin Tianshui, and a few others over to demand punishment, but from the looks of things now...¡±

    ¡°So, it¡¯s like that! The Lin n assumed the Chen ncked Yuanfu realm experts, but it seems the tables have turned unexpectedly.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The eyes of many Yuanfu realm experts flickered.

    The struggles between prestigious ns were extremely fierce. Everyone wanted to seize each other¡¯s market share to earn more money and resources.

    If the Lin n were to be wiped out...

    ¡°Wang Daoyuan, Sun Tianqi, give our Lin n a helping hand. We''re willing to offer thirty percent of our market share as thanks andpensation afterward!¡±

    Lin Hong, pushed back by Chen Zhengqing''s relentless attacks with worsening injuries, sensed the onlookers and urgently called for assistance.

    The Wang n and the Sun n were both prestigious ns of Watermoon City. Their standings were simr to the Lin n.

    ¡°Hmph, this is a matter between us, the Chen n, and the Lin n. Whoever dares to interfere will be killed without mercy!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing''s chilling voice echoed through the surroundings as if freezing the very heavens and earth.

    A Raging mes Violent de swept out, shattering Lin Ying''s protective primeval force and shing at him, pushing him backward. A long, bloody gash marred his chest, revealing his throbbing internal organs.

 Chapter 178 - Lin Hong Self-destructs

    <h4>Chapter 178 - Lin Hong Self-destructs</h4>

    ¡°Lin Ying!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s de had severely injured Lin Ying, and he was on hisst breath, so he could no longer fight.

    Lin Hong was appalled and roared out loud, but what came as a response was an even more terrifying de light.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Lin Hong felt as if his arms were about to be broken from the sh. He was sent flying back uncontrobly and smashed heavily into the city wall.

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing were trouncing them.

    The eyes of the nearby Yuanfu realm experts flickered with shock.

    That was especially true for Wang Daoyuan and Sun Tianqi, whom Lin Hong had asked for help. They were the patriarchs of the Wang n and the Sun n, and their cultivation levels were the same as Lin Hong¡ªthe early stage of the fourth level. The three ns interacted very frequently.

    ¡°Brother Tianqi, are we helping them?¡±

    Wang Daoyuan, wearing a blue shirt, had his eyes slightly narrowed. After hearing Lin Hong¡¯s call for help, he immediately transmitted his voice to Sun Tianqi with his primeval force standing next to him.

    Sun Tianqi was a middle-aged, overweight man with a round face; he always smiled like Maitreya. However, if one observed him, they would discover a bright light shining in his eyes from time to time through the slits. [1]

    Sun Tianqi replied, ¡°Brother Daoyuan, can you deal with him?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s difficult!¡±

    Wang Daoyuan replied, ¡°He is at the early stage of the fourth level, but hisbat strength is ridiculous. Even when Lin Hong and Lin Ying joined forces, they were utterly powerless and had to endure a relentless beating. I think hisbat strength isparable to someone at the peak stage of the fourth level.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right! Our cultivations are the same. Even if we made a move, we couldn¡¯t be sure we could take him down. If we fail, we¡¯ll bring trouble onto ourselves,¡± Sun Tianqi said, transmitting his voice.

    ¡°Hoho, looks like Brother Tianqi and I have the same idea.¡± Wang Daoyuanughed.

    Neither of them took any action, intimidated by Chen Zhengqing''s formidable strength.

    If they made a move and failed to take down Chen Zhengqing, they would have brought a disaster to their ns¡ªa risk they were unwilling to take.

    Given their hesitation, the others also refrained from making any moves. These individuals hailed from various esteemed ns in Watermoon City, each almost as shrewd as the next guy. They could all read the situation well.

    Chen Zhengqing''s strength could rank him among the top five experts in Watermoon City. It was in their best interest to avoid entangling with such a formidable character.

    As for the Lin n...

    In any case, they were rivals. If the Chen n exterminated them, they would stand to benefit in some ways, too, and were happy to watch the situation develop.

    ......

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing pressed on to their advantage and continued beating up their opponents. Their cultivation erupted violently, and their fierce attacks enveloped heaven and earth.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A punch from Chen Fan ruptured Lin Tianzhen¡¯s heart.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Another miserable cry soon rang out as Lin Yongchun followed Lin Tianzhen¡¯s footsteps into the grave.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me!¡± Lin Yao was terrified.

    Overwhelmed by Chen Fan, a mere teenager, Lin Zhentian and Lin Yongchun met their demise consecutively. Lin Yao, too, suffered severe injuries. As Chen Fan walked toward him, Lin Yao, driven by survival instincts, raised his hands in surrender.

    ¡°Lin Yao, how could you!¡±

    Seeing Lin Yao kneeling and begging for mercy, Lin Hong spewed blood from anger. Another one of Chen Zhengqing¡¯s de attacks struck him, and his arm flew into the air.

    ¡°Ah...¡±

    The pain from losing his arm left Lin Hong screaming miserably. His face was twisted as he roared, ¡°Damn it, all of you should die! I¡¯ll fight you to the death!¡±

    Immediately, the primeval vessel above Lin Hong erupted with a devastating aura. He was about to detonate his primeval vessel.

    ¡°Xiaofan, watch out!¡±

    Sensing the devastating auraing from Lin Hong¡¯s primeval vessel, Chen Zhengqing¡¯s expression immediately sank, and he retreated frantically. He simultaneously grabbed with his arm, sweeping up Chen Yunchong¡¯s group, and flew away.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression also changed drastically. He abandoned the notion of killing Lin Yao and quickly retreated with the remaining Chen n members.

    ¡°Thinking of running away? No way that¡¯s happening! Let¡¯s die together!¡±

    Cracks appeared on Lin Hong¡¯s face. The destructive aura spread out from within as he flew toward Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing roared furiously, instantly shing out thirty times with his ming de. The attacks came together and whistled toward Lin Hong, stopping him from approaching.

    A fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert detonating their primeval vessel would seriously injure even a fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, die!¡±

    Chen Fan also drove his cultivation to the limits. Six arms struck out wildly, shaking heaven and earth and raising a huge wave of qi, sweeping over to block Lin Hong¡¯s footsteps.

    The explosion would have a vast impact, and if Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and others were caught in it, they would undoubtedly suffer significant injuries.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With an earth-shaking explosion, Lin Hong transformed into a blinding ¡°sun,¡± emitting an iparable radiance that forced people to shut their eyes. A destructive qi wave violently swept out, causing widespread devastation.

    The Lin n mansion crumbled instantly, and countless individuals, including Lin Yao, were obliterated in the aftermath. The rolling qi waves resembled a steel wall, producing ear-piercing booms.

    The noises were unceasing. Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing swept up the Chen n members and fell back in haste. Their primeval force surged, forming a wall in front of them to stop that terrifying shockwave.

    Still, the wall of primeval force formed by the two was like paper, shattering with a few cracking sounds. They were struck and flew a thousand meters away, vomiting blood.

    ¡°Are you alright, Xiaofan?¡±

    Above Chen Zhengqing¡¯s head, the glow of his primeval vessel became dimmer. He had to ignite his primeval force to resist the explosion¡¯s shockwaves. He had suffered considerable injuries.

    Chen Fan shook his head, his gaze dark as he wiped off the fresh blood at the corners of his lips and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine, Father!¡±

    His flesh was iparably tough. Although this shockwave was incredibly fierce, it only caused his qi and blood to churn; his foundation wasn¡¯t damaged.

    They were rtively fine, but the Chen n members with fifth- and sixth-level Qigong cultivation were annihted, leaving no corpses behind.

    Even with him and Chen Zhengqing protecting them at full strength, they couldn¡¯t block off all the ripples, giving rise to casualties on their side.

    Although Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and some others with higher cultivation levels were alive, they also had received significant injuries. Every one of them spewed out blood, and theirplexions were ghastly white, looking at Lin n''s mansion with lingering fear in their hearts.

    The storm from Lin Hong¡¯s self-destruction slowly calmed down.

    The ripples from the detonation of a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert had an extensive reach. Half of the Lin n mansiony in ruins, with numerous casualties and injuries. Some individuals, affected by the powerful shockwaves,y on the ground, moaning in pain.

    1. Maitreya is regarded as the future Buddha of this world in Buddhist eschatology. ?

 Chapter 179 - Time Passed Quickly

    <h4>Chapter 179 - Time Passed Quickly</h4>

    ¡°He has detonated himself! Lin Hong was forced to do that!¡±

    ¡°Ruthless! Incredibly ruthless!¡±

    ¡°Pity, Lin Hong actually ended up killing nearly half of the Lin n members instead of the father and son duo."

    ¡°It¡¯s truly unexpected. Lin n¡¯s mighty patriarch had to detonate his primeval vessel!¡±

    ¡°Theplete extermination of the Lin n... The rise of the Chen n in Watermoon City is imminent."

    ¡°......¡±

    The distant, on-looking crowd watched as Lin Hong detonated himself and destroyed half of the Lin n mansion. It was a mess. The corners of their eyes twitched violently.

    Not everyone dared to detonate their primeval vessel.

    They were aware that Lin Hong''s choice stemmed from being cornered into a dire situation. Unfortunately, the oue didn''t align with Lin Hong''s intentions.

    ¡°What happened? That direction... Lin n! Something huge happened in the Lin n!¡±

    ¡°Quick, to the Lin n! That explosion from earlier came from them. Surely something huge has happened there.¡±

    ¡°Such a terrifying explosion! It was like a second sun had appeared in the sky. A Yuanfu realm expert must have detonated their primeval vessel!¡±

    ¡°What could force a Yuanfu realm powerhouse to do that?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The other people of Watermoon City also felt the terrifying ripplesing from Lin n.

    The upheaval generated by Lin Hong¡¯s detonation was immense. The entire city felt the ground shake and witnessed the appearance of a second sun in the sky. Detecting the origin, they immediately understood that something big had happened in the Lin n, prompting them all to rush in that direction.

    ......

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing descended onto the ruined Lin n mansion with their other nsmen. Seeing the castle-like Lin n mansion reduced to debris with broken walls and ruined beyond recognition, the corners of their eyes twitched uncontrobly.

    Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and the others felt lingering fear in their hearts.

    Had Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing not swept them away together, that explosion would have left them without a corpse.

    Although they were still terrified, their gazes were burning hot.

    Lin n¡¯s Yuanfu realm experts had all died.

    The Lin n had been exterminated!

    ¡°Let¡¯s get moving and gather the surviving members of the Lin n.¡±

    At Chen Zhengqing¡¯smand, Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and the others led a group inside, guiding the fortunate survivors of the Lin n out.

    Having experience wiping out ns and seizing their assets, they swiftly rounded up all surviving members of the Lin n.

    Chen Fan and hispanions repeated their practiced routines and crippled the cultivations of Lin n''s core members. Chen Fan dered, ¡°It would be in our best interest if you, the private troops, choose to stay and serve our Chen n. If not, leave immediately!¡±

    Those private troops didn¡¯t move.

    ¡°Very well. Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, assimte these individuals into our ranks and immediately assume control of Lin n''s businesses!¡± Chen Zhengqingmanded.

    With a pressing need for manpower, they refrained from crippling the private troops'' cultivation. These individuals didn¡¯t have the Lin surname, as the Lin n had recruited them to follow orders and work.

    Given the Lin n''s annihtion and their small initial numbers, substantial manpower was required to take over Lin n''s businesses in Watermoon City. It made the private troops invaluable.

    ¡°Yes, Patriarch!¡±

    Chen Yunchong and the others were all very excited. They had all just wiped out a Grade-2 n alone.

    ......

    The shock from the Lin n¡¯s exterminationsted for five days, dominating post-meal discussions among the popce.

    No one anticipated the swift recement of a prestigious n that had thrived in Watermoon City for centuries.

    Amidst the spreading of information by those with hidden agendas, fresh discussions emerged among the people of Watermoon City.

    However, Chen Fan and the others ignored this, instead focusing on taking over Lin n¡¯s businesses in the city.

    The Lin n''s estate exceeded the Liu and Tan ns in scale. The absence of adequate manpower became evident, necessitating their immediate attention.

    Fortunately, the Chen n¡¯s people arrived in time. They took over most of the Lin n¡¯s estate using the carrot and stick method.

    Other ns of Watermoon City swallowed some minor businesses, as the Chen n didn¡¯t really care about them.

    With them exterminating the Tan, Liu, and Lin ns sessively, they needed a lot of manpower on their side to stabilize the situation.

    The recent elimination of Watermoon City''s Lin n propelled the Chen n to unprecedented heights, yet they struggled to cope with the escting need for personnel.

    Were it not for the remarkable disy of strength by Chen Zhengqing and Chen Fan, many of Lin n''s businesses would have fallen into the hands of rival ns. They had deterred some weaker ns and repelled the Zhao n during the takeover of Lin n''s assets.

    In Xuanyang City, Chen Tianxiong had to oversee things to prevent unwanted situations and couldn¡¯t leave.

    Consequently, in Watermoon City, Chen Zhengqing and Chen Fan found themselves exceptionally upied, leading efforts to seize control of businesses, quell the chaos, and recruit additional private troops.

    Busy with all these matters, ten days had already passed by the time the Lin n¡¯s estate waspletely under Chen n¡¯s control.

    During these ten days, Chen Fan was so busy that he didn¡¯t have time to look at the other side, neglecting rest and cultivation.

    After all, the Chen n was from Xuanyang City. The prestigious ns of Watermoon City had thoroughly investigated the Chen n. The asional issues demanded the intervention of the two experts, Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Phew, one truly doesn''tprehend the difficulties of this position until upying it. I wonder how Father and Grandfather lived all these years.¡± Chen Fan exhaled a long breath of turbid air. His eyes flickered in a rare moment of rest.

    The past ten days provided a firsthand experience of the myriad responsibilities and challenges of leading a family.

    ¡°Hoho, it¡¯s nothing much. Chaos is inevitable when taking over businesses, but once things stabilize, it won''t be as taxing.¡± Chen Zhengqing walked over,ughing brightly.

    ¡°Father, Lin n¡¯s matters have settled down. Although those Watermoon City ns are envious, we¡¯ve stepped in and intimidated them over thest ten days. I¡¯m sure they wouldn¡¯t dare find any more trouble with us.

    Chen Fan looked at Chen Zhengqing and said, ¡°Having exterminated the Tan, Liu, and Lin ns sessively. Our n¡¯s strength and foundation have be much deeper in one go, but we have too few experts. Compared to the other ns, we¡¯re like a house in dire straits. We must spend much effort nurturing a batch of Qi Grandmasters first.¡±

    ¡°You have a point. If it wasn¡¯t for us both deterring those having designs on us, I¡¯m afraid we couldn¡¯t have imed even a tiny slice of the pie. The gap between our n¡¯s strength and the other ns is too big,¡± Chen Zhengqing said, nodding.

    ¡°However, there was a lot of good stuff inside Lin n¡¯s treasury. I¡¯ve already distributed some of the treasures that can help one be a Qi Grandmaster. We should have a batch of Qi Grandmasters emerging soon.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded. After a moment of silence, he said, ¡°Father, I¡¯ve been back for two months now. I¡¯ll return to the sect in a few days and enter the inner sect. The Chen n will depend on you and Grandfather in the future.¡±

    Chen Fan felt a wave of emotions in his heart.

    Time went by too quickly.

    Two months had passed before he realized it. It felt like he had returned only yesterday.

    Too many things have happened in the two months he had been in the n.

    They wiped out Xuanyang City¡¯s Tan and Liu ns, then brought people to Watermoon City and exterminated the Lin n.

    He had also advanced to the Yuanfu realm. Returning to the sect and entering the inner sect would elevate him to the status of an elite disciple.

 Chapter 180 - A Letter

    <h4>Chapter 180 - A Letter</h4>

    ¡°Rest assured. Though the Chen n isn''t currently strong enough, I''ll make anyone thinking of opposing us reconsider,¡± Chen Zhengqing said, smiling.

    In his youth, he stood as the Chen n''s prodigy, swiftly advancing to the Yuanfu realm. However, a sequence of unfortunate events damaged his primeval vessel, forcing him to escort Chen Fan back to Xuanyang City.

    Over a decade passed, and he resigned himself to a life of stagnant cultivation. He had epted that he wouldpletely lose his cultivation and live as a cripple.

    Unexpectedly, Chen Fan returned with a Buddhist Bone Relic, rejuvenating his primeval vessel and reigniting his blood''s fervor.

    Gazing into the distance, Chen Zhengqing narrowed his eyes, a fierce glint flickering within.

    ¡°Alright, then, Father. I¡¯ll leave for the sect in three days,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Chen Zhengqing nodded and said, ¡°Alright.¡±

    In a sh, three days psed, which Chen Fan used to focus on cultivation, solidifying his progress.

    "With n matters settled, I''ll now return to the sect. Stay vignt against other influential ns," cautioned Chen Fan to Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°No need to worry. I¡¯ve absorbed less than thirty percent of the Sun Stone''s energy. I could enter the fifth level, at the very least, by exhausting it. No one in the entire Watermoon City will be my match then,¡± Chen Zhengqing said proudly.

    There were only two fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouses in Watermoon City. And once he advanced to the fifth level, even they wouldn¡¯t pose a threat to him.

    Furthermore, he was cultivating with the aid of the Sun Stone, so he made great progress every day. He couldpletely refine the Sun Stone in half a year at most, so advancing to the fifth level was no problem.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Since that is the case, I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±

    ¡°Do you want to bring some things with you? Why not carry more primeval stones and pills?¡± Chen Zhengqing said.

    The Chen n now possessed the Lin n''s centuries of umtion, so they now had plenty of valuable resources.

    ¡°No need. I have enough primeval stones on me. Moreover, the n is in a period of rapid development. Recruiting people will cost a lot, so I shan¡¯t take anything else.¡± Chen Fan shook his head.

    If he needed cultivation resources, he could hunt demon beasts, take their demon cores, and refine them to raise his cultivation.

    Although there were a lot of treasures in the Lin n¡¯s vault, the rapid development would make the n expenses very high, as they would have to spend in many areas. It would impede the n¡¯s development if he brought too much away.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving then, Father.¡±

    ¡°Be careful on your way. Make sure the map is with you, and don¡¯t get lost now. Also, keep in mind that your sect¡¯s inner sect is filled with experts. Remember to avoid doing anything that will make you stick out. Endure when you have to. Understand?¡± Chen Zhengqing exhorted.

    ¡°Rest assured, Father.¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled and flew out with a step, taking to the sky like a bird, disappearing from sight.

    ¡°Our Chen n has produced a true dragon. Young Patriarch¡¯s future will definitely not be limited to the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    The elders next to Chen Zhengqing couldn¡¯t help but be emotional, watching Chen Fan disappear without a trace.

    Chen Fan had yed a huge part in why the Chen n could develop so rapidly.

    If it weren¡¯t for Chen Fan helping Chen Zhengqing restore his cultivation and Chen Tianxiong advancing to the Yuanfu realm, their Chen n would have been wiped outpletely, facing the Lin n¡¯s oppression.

    With the Lin n¡¯s extermination, they had obtained many resources. Everyone¡¯s cultivation had improved by leaps and bounds, extending their lifespans. Their future was bright.

    All of this could be attributed to Chen Fan, the catalyst for their transformation.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A figure slowly descended from the sky to the ground¡ªa teenager of around sixteen or seventeen. He was none other than Chen Fan returning to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Having left the boundaries of Watermoon City, he descended after covering a thousand miles in one go.

    Raising his head, he looked around him and saw wide paths leading in all directions, weaving through viges, towns, waterways, and cities. In the distance, continuous mountain ranges rose over the horizon, blocking the view.

    Chen Fan whipped out a map from his bosom. He ascertained the direction, nodded, and continued forward.

    Surrounded by vastnds, Chen Fan leaped into the air and flew across the ins like a roc soaring through the nine heavens, free and at ease. A feeling of grandeur rose within him, teeming with lofty aspirations.

    ......

    Three dayster, a fatigued Chen Fannded in front of the mountain with the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Opting not to ride a Golden Horned Horse back to the sect, Chen Fan had chosen to fly. After all, he could fly faster than the horse, which could cover ten thousand miles a day.

    Passing through the entrance, he entered the outer sect, which had regained its lively atmosphere because the disciples had returned from their vacations. A bustling crowd moved about, and whispers spread as Chen Fan walked through.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really him!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s returned to the sect from home.¡±

    ¡°This guy dared to set a three-year promise with Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. How reckless and arrogant.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Chen Fan walked around in the sect, the outer sect disciples pointed and gossiped about him; it all fell into his ears.

    Chen Fan ignored them, as he wouldn¡¯t lose any sleep over their gossip.

    ¡°Chen Fan,e quickly.¡±

    Suddenly, a voice rang in Chen Fan¡¯s ear, which only he heard.

    Wei Buyu knew Chen Fan had returned to the sect and had transmitted his voice with primeval force.

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrows. Judging from Wei Buyu¡¯s voice, it seemed there was something urgent.

    Turning around, Chen Fan headed toward the outer sect¡¯s Martial Arts Pavilion.

    A quarter of an hourter:

    ¡°Master!¡±

    Chen Fan and Wei Buyu stood on the roof of the Martial Arts Pavilion.

    ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±

    Wei Buyu sized up Chen Fan and smiled. ¡°Not bad. You¡¯re in the Yuanfu realm already.¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and asked, ¡°Master, did something happen?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± Wei Buyu nodded. A letter appeared in his palm. He handed it to Chen Fan and said, ¡°Qin Changkong left this letter for you. Take a look for yourself.¡±

    ¡°Uncle Qin did?¡±

    Chen Fan furrowed his brows, somewhat doubtful.

    <i>Why would Uncle leave me a letter?</i>

    <i>Is he away for some reason and wants me to look after Qin Yao upon entering the inner sect? </i>

    Even if Qin Changkong didn¡¯t leave a letter to inform him, he would have done that all the same.

    Chen Fan received the letter and opened it. Soon, his brows were creased tightly.

    After reading its contents, he looked at Wei Buyu and said, "Master, this..."

 Chapter 181 - Great Jin Imperial Court

    <h4>Chapter 181 - Great Jin Imperial Court</h4>

    ¡°Master, this...¡±

    Chen Fan gazed at Wei Buyu, struggling to ept the letter''s contents.

    A few days after Chen Fan had left the sect, an expert forcibly took Qin Yao and Qin Changkong from the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ording to Qin Changkong''s letter, the abductor hailed from the Great Jin Imperial Court in the central region of the continent. The letter briefly touched upon Qin Yao''s birth, linking it to the Great Jin Imperial Court. [1]

    Also, Qin Changkong knew what had happened between him and Qin Yao. He had urged Chen Fan to redouble his cultivation efforts. Only by reaching the Manifestation realm, at the very least, could he qualify to rescue her.

    Wei Buyu sighed and said, ¡°Kid, put more effort into cultivating. The Great Jin Imperial Court in the central continent''s Jin Domain is a formidable force on the Tianwu Continent.¡±

    ¡°If you want to bring back Qin Yao and Qin Changkong, you just can¡¯t do that with your current strength. You are no different from an ant to them.¡±

    Chen Fan remained silent, clutching the letter tightly.

    <i>Central continent. Jin Domain. Great Jin Imperial Court... </i>Chen Fan repeated those words silently.

    When Qin Yao awakened her bloodline, he had realized that her status was anything but simple. And it turned out that she had links to the central continent¡¯s Great Jin Imperial Court.

    Qin Changkong¡¯s letter showed that the court wasn¡¯t treating them well. Their forceful abduction by the court''s experts indicated that although they weren¡¯t in a life-threatening situation, they were in a difficult situation nheless.

    Chen Fan wanted nothing more than to massacre his way to the Great Jin Imperial Court, but he knew he couldn¡¯t achieve anything with his insignificant cultivation.

    ¡°Don¡¯t feel disheartened, kid. I see great potential in you. Your current cultivation level may be insignificant before the Great Jin Imperial Court, but who can predict how high you''ll rise?

    ¡°Don¡¯t think about anything else for now. Just cultivate well, and in the future, go beyond the Great Chu Empire and the eastern continent. When your strength has truly grown, head to the Great Jin Imperial Court and rescue Qin Yao and Qin Changkong,¡± Wei Buyu advised after reading the letter, expressing shock at the extraordinary status of the two.

    Worried that the contents of the letter might demoralize Chen Fan, Wei Buyu had spoken to ensure he wouldn''t lose hope.

    After a moment of silence, Chen Fan raised his head, took a deep breath, and, with a bright light in his eyes, reassured, ¡°Rest assured, Master. I¡¯m not that fragile. You are right. I¡¯m currently too weak and like an ant in front of the court. My foremost mission is to cultivate and increase my strength.

    ¡°Only when I have enough strength and cultivation can I bring back Uncle Qin and Senior Sister!¡±

    Wei Buyu patted Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°It¡¯s good you understand.¡±

    ¡°Master, can you tell me about the general situation of the Tianwu Continent?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    Wei Buyu nodded and said, ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll tell you some things about the Tianwu Continent.¡±

    Wei Buyu looked into the far distance. His chest rose and fell slightly, seemingly excited as he said, ¡°The martial path reigns supreme in the Tianwu Continent, divided into fivends: northern, southern, eastern, western, and central continents. Eachnd is vast,prised of numerous domains.

    ¡°For example, consider the eastern continent with a total of a hundred and eight domains. The Great Chu Empire resides in the Hong Domain, situated in the middle-lower echelon of the 108 domains. Despite its position, the Hong Domain is only one among many in the eastern continent.

    ¡°Within these domains, various forces exist. There''s a saying, ''lower tier empire, upper tier imperial court.'' Take the Great Chu Empire as an example; it holds a middle-ranking position among all the forces in the Hong Domain.

    ¡°In the Tianwu Continent, nine great powers reign supreme¡ªknown as the three ns and six sects, inheriting ancient heritages. Incidentally, the royal n of the Great Jin Imperial Court is among these three ns.¡±

    Chen Fan was visibly shaken.

    The Great Jin Imperial Court¡¯s royal n was actually one of the three ns!

    In other words, the Great Jin Imperial Court was one of the nine overlord-level forces under the heavens!

    It went without saying that Wei Buyu noticed the shock on Chen Fan¡¯s face. He continued, ¡°Aside from the nine overlord-level forces, there are also many super forces on the continent second only to those nine overlord-level forces.

    ¡°Every one of these forces is unimaginably powerful. Take the Great Jin Imperial Court as an example; it spans thend of a domain, boasting a heritage stretching tens of thousands of years and controlling hundreds of million miles of territory.¡±

    Wei Buyu gave Chen Fan an overall rundown of the Tianwu Continent. Concluding, he remarked, ¡°The expanses of thesends seem endless. Individuals like us are mere specks of dust. While we may be considered overlords in the Great Chu Empire, on the scale of the entire Tianwu Continent, we''re nothing more than inconspicuous specks of dust.¡±

    ¡°Stronger. I want to be stronger. One day, I will stand at the top of this continent and look down on the world!¡± Chen Fan suddenly raised his head, his gaze sharp like a sword, looking into the void. A sense of grandeur rose within him.

    Wei Buyuughed and said, ¡°Kid, the path of martial arts requires you to take one step at a time. What you need to do now is to raise your cultivation and try to break through to the Core Formation realm as soon as possible.

    ¡°Remember, there''s still a towering mountain named Duan Jingtian before you. Only by moving that colossal obstacle can you continue forward. Are you confident?¡± Wei Buyu asked with a smile.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were filled with confidence as he said, ¡°Master, you¡¯ll see for yourself in three years.¡±

    ¡°Haha, good, it¡¯s good that you¡¯re confident! Go on. You¡¯ll be entering the inner sect with the others in two days. The inner sect is different from the outer sect. There, real expertspete.¡±

    In Wei Buyu¡¯s eyes, the struggles in the Spring Autumn Outer Sect were only minor scuffles. They were not worth mentioning.

    Disciples in the Qigong realm were like ants on the ground in his eyes. Would an elephant care about a group of ants fighting on the ground?

    The inner sect presented a contrasting scenario. Though the number of disciples was fewer, they were of high quality, categorized into inner court disciples, elite disciples, core disciples, and saint disciples.

    Every rank of inner sect disciple required the corresponding cultivation as a basis.

    For example, elite disciples needed to be in the Yuanfu realm, while core disciples had to be at least at the fifth level of the Yuanfu realm.

    To be a saint disciple, one had to advance to the Core Formation realm, and their status wasparable to that of the inner sect''s Grand Elder.

    The entire Spring Autumn Inner Sect currently had fewer than twenty saint disciples.

    Only core disciples had some weight in Wei Buyu¡¯s eyes. To him, even elite disciples were not worth mentioning.

    Chen Fan nodded, having heard rumors about the inner sect''s harsh reality.

    Yet, he harbored no fear.

    True experts came crawling out from mountains of corpses and seas of blood. There was no such thing as an expert nurtured in a greenhouse.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. After you enter the inner sect, I will also enter the inner sect and take on the position of Grand Elder. Those people from Heaven¡¯s Alliance won¡¯t dare to pick on you tantly,¡± Wei Buyu added.

    1. Refresher: Great Jin Imperial Court appeared in chapter 101 when she and Chen Fan were recovering under Scarlet Cliff and she awakened her bloodline power. That ce with a huge phoenix statue. ?

 Chapter 182 - Nine Swords of Wind Demon

    <h4>Chapter 182 - Nine Swords of Wind Demon</h4>

    The night was deep, and moonlight, gentle as water, spilled into Chen Fan''s room as he sat in the lotus position on the bed. The soft glow added a cool luster to him.

    ¡°Wait for me, Senior Sister. I¡¯ll go to the Great Jin Imperial Court and bring you back to my side. No one can stop me!¡± Chen Fan''s eyes shed with determination as he gazed at the starry light outside the window.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, a demon core appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s palm. The Lin n¡¯s treasury had around ten demon cores.

    As a prestigious n of a Grade-2 city with a heritage of hundreds of years and several Yuanfu realm powerhouses, their treasury surpassed that of the Tan and Liu ns.

    Chen Fan promptly threw it into his mouth, and it moved into his dantian. Activating the Heaven Seizing Furnace, he immediately began refining the demon core.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Enormous amounts of vitality essence instantly flowed out from the demon core, turning into pure primeval force. It became even purer after circting within Chen Fan and returned to his primeval vessel.

    There, the rolling primeval force flowed like a torrent, forming a secondyer over his primeval vessel.

    Others had to absorb the primeval qi of heaven and earth or the pure primeval qi from primeval stones to gradually build the ¡°house¡± further. Consequently, their progress in the Yuanfu realm was slow.

    Thankfully, the Heaven Seizing Furnace resolved that issue for Chen Fan. Operated at full capacity, the furnace refined the demon cores and channeled their vital essence to fortify him, causing his cultivation to skyrocket.

    A demon core was the essence cultivated by demon beasts. The thorough refinement of the furnace turned more than half into qi waste, but the remaining thirty to forty percent held significant power.

    A single demon core gave Chen Fan the same cultivation boost that others got after cultivating bitterly for half a year.

    Chen Fan took four hours to refine the demon corepletely.

    Yet, it fell short of propelling him to a breakthrough; the secondyer of his primeval vessel was only about a thirdplete. Undeterred, he grabbed another demon core, swallowed it, and refined it.

    As the night progressed, the sky turned pale.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes, a brilliant light shining within.

    In one night, he had refined three demon cores. The secondyer of his primeval vessel was almostplete. He was now at the peak of the first level.

    ¡°Phew.¡±

    Chen Fan took in a deep breath and exhaled forcefully. His exhale turned into a dragon-shaped cloud, cutting through the air with a sharp noise.

    The exhale of a Yuanfu realm expert was akin to the sh of a sword.

    Chen Fan rose to his feet, exited his room, and walked to a secluded mountain cliff surrounded by clouds and mist.

    With a sword on his back, he stood quietly in ce for a long time. This sword was a Grade-2 treasure named Autumn y. He had obtained it from the Lin n.

    Suddenly, a light shed in his eyes. He drew the sword with a shing sound and swung it. Streaks of sharp sword qi silently cut the cloud mist in front in half.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Another sh transformed the sword qi into wind des, further dispersing the halved cloud mist. Chen Fan seamlessly integrated his qi, stepped forward, and swung his sword fluidly.

    Strong winds sometimes howled on the top of the mountain, alternating with calm, windless moments.

    Only the shing of sword light and sweeping of sword qi could be seen.

    The Nine Swords of Wind Demon was a profound tier martial skill from the Lin n.

    Chen Fancked martial skills. Among the ones he had learned, the Heaven Piercing Spear couldn¡¯t easily, while the Thunderp Sword and the few other dirt tier martial skills were no longer useful.

    As for the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, although it was still serviceable, as his cultivation level increased, it was starting to be obsolete since it was only a quasi-profound tier martial skill.

    This Nine Swords of Wind Demon was Lin n¡¯s best martial skill, rated at the middle-profound tier. This sword technique had nine styles, which happened to fulfill Chen Fan¡¯s immediate needs.

    The initial three styles were unnamed,prising ordinary sword moves.

    Wind Demon Sword Light, Wind Demon Cross sh, Wind Demon Blood Rain, Wind Demon Grotto Heaven, Wind Demon Chaotic Dance, and Wind Demon Shocking Cloud sh. These were the subsequent six styles that exemplified the unpredictable and sharp nature of this wind-rted sword technique.

    First style.

    Second style.

    Third style.

    The sword light flowed like water as Chen Fan practiced the moves individually.

    ¡°Wind Demon Sword Light!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s wrist shook slightly. A brilliant sword light shot out from Autumn y, reaching a hundred steps away in a sh andnding on the cliff wall. With a bang, shattered rocks flew about.

    ¡°Wind Demon Cross sh!¡±

    Chen Fan used a different move, swinging the sword instantly, their sword paths crossing.

    Instantly, two streaks of sword qi shot out in a cross, tearing through the air with a haunting hum reminiscent of ghosts wailing and wolves howling.

    ¡°Wind Demon Blood Rain!¡±

    Transitioning to another technique, Chen Fan unleashed a rain of blood and a stench in the wind from the bright sword light.

    ¡°Wind Demon Grotto Heaven!¡±

    ¡°Wind Demon Chaotic Dance!¡±

    ¡°Wind Demon Shocking Cloud sh!¡±

    Chen Fan moved as if he were flying, continuously flicking the sword in his hand.

    Streaks of immensely destructive sword qi, entwined with primeval force, shot out, tearing the air apart and leaving deep marks on the cliff wall.

    After practicing the moves thrice, Chen Fan¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat, and he panted heavily for air.

    Profound tier martial skills were powerful, but their execution demanded a considerable consumption of primeval force.

    If news spread that Chen Fan could practice three cycles in one go, it would undoubtedly astonish countless people.

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged on the ground and took out primeval stones to restore his exhausted primeval force as he pondered.

    ¡°After I enter the inner sect, I must practice another martial skill and movement technique...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone with wisdom.

    Although Zhuo Bufan, Wei Buyu, and some others knew about his Wings of Rain Dragon, flying movement techniques were rare. There would surely be people harboring ill intentions against him if news of it spread.

    He needed to use it as little as possible, especially in front of others.

    Even if he didn¡¯t execute Wings of Rain Dragon, his speed was much faster than others. As such, he nned to find a profound tier movement technique to practice.

    Two days swiftly passed, during which Chen Fan dedicated his nights to elevating and solidifying his cultivation. He was only a step away from entering the second-level Yuanfu realm now.

    After spending another night refining three demon cores, he stopped. Instead, he revolved his cultivation technique repeatedly, circting the primeval force in his primeval vessel to consolidate his cultivation.

    Increasing one¡¯s cultivation too quickly was not necessarily a good thing.

    That was especially true in cases simr to Chen Fan, where one used demon cores to increase their cultivation quickly. Even though the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s ability was heaven-defying, it would have some minor hidden drawbacks, like not having a firm foundation. He needed to spend time consolidating his foundation.

    During the daytime, Chen Fan practiced the Nine Swords of Wind Demon. He had already reached the minor mastery. When he executed it, its destructive power was extremely shocking, surpassing Undefeated King¡¯s Fist.

    On the third day, Chen Fan visited the Outer Sect Main Hall. It marked the day he and his fellow disciples would officially enter the inner sect.

    Upon arrival, he found many people already gathered in small groups at the square in front of the Outer Sect Main Hall, their faces radiating excitement.

 Chapter 183 - Thousand Steps Stairway

    <h4>Chapter 183 - Thousand Steps Stairway</h4>

    Many disciples had already gathered in the Outer Sect Main Hall.

    When the disciples noticed Chen Fan, they immediately fell silent, stopping their hushed conversations. They looked at Chen Fan meaningfully.

    Chen Fan had be quite the celebrity in the Spring Autumn Sect, thanks to his three-year promise to Duan Jingtian, a fact known across both outer and inner sects.

    ¡°Shh, Chen Fan is here!¡±

    ¡°This guy... he should have broken through to the Yuanfu realm by now, right?¡±

    ¡°So what if he has broken through to the Yuanfu realm? Offending Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is equivalent to offending the entire Heaven¡¯s Alliance. In the inner sect, Yuanfu realm experts are everywhere. He''s in for trouble.¡±

    ¡°But I heard Senior Brother Duan Jingtian wouldn¡¯t find trouble with him during the promised three years. Heaven¡¯s Alliance members are also forbidden from doing so...¡±

    ¡°Hehe, many in the inner sect idolize Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. Some will aid him against Chen Fan despite not being alliance members.¡±

    ¡°Quick, move aside. Don¡¯t get too close to him. Be careful of catching his bad luck...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The whispers circted, with some people avoiding Chen Fan as if he were the gue, dispersing in various directions to avoid potential trouble.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t find it strange.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s prestige and reputation in the Spring Autumn Sect surpassed anyparison.

    The news of his challenge had spread far and wide, making it unsurprising that few dared to approach him.

    Unperturbed by the whispers and gossip, Chen Fan found a spot to wait quietly.

    Half an hourter, Zhuo Bufan emerged from the main hall, surveying the gathered disciples. ¡°It looks like everyone is here, I see. Then,e with me!¡±

    He kept it brief; martial artists tended to be straightforward.

    ording to the rules, the top hundred disciples in every Outer Sect Grand Competition could enter the inner sect.

    However, Zhong Li¡¯s group was dead, and Qin Yao was no longer here. Five slots needed filling, so five outstanding disciples had been chosen to take their ce.

    Under Zhuo Bufan¡¯s lead, the group of a hundred headed toward the inner sect.

    Chen Fan and the other disciples were all very curious; the inner sect''s location was a mystery to them.

    After traversing the outer sect for half a day, covering tens of miles, they arrived at a ten thousand-foot tall precipice. At its pinnacle stood a striking hall, impossible to miss.

    ¡°This heavenly stairway on the precipice leads to the inner sect. If you wish to enter the inner sect, you¡¯ll have to walk up those stairs, one step at a time, enter the hall at the top of the mountain, and register yourselves.¡± Zhuo Bufan said slowly, looking at the precipice.

    This precipice was ten thousand feet tall, with a stairway extending down from the hall. It had exactly a thousand steps, each of them ten feet high.

    It served as an initiation, a test for those seeking entry into the inner sect.

    ¡°Remember, you have to walk up one step at a time. You¡¯re not allowed to run or fly. Understand?¡± Zhuo Bufan reminded them.

    ¡°Yes!¡± The disciples answered in unison.

    Zhuo Bufan smiled faintly and said, ¡°Alright. Follow this stairway up. Once in the inner sect, I hope you''ll redouble your cultivation efforts. Your future paths depend on your efforts.¡±

    As his voice fell, Zhuo Bufan fluttered away.

    For a brief period, the disciples looked at one another.

    Chen Fan set his gaze on the thousand-step stairway and walked ahead.

    As soon as he stepped onto the stairway, Chen Fan''s eyes flickered. Following suit, the other disciples ascended one after another. Soon, a surprised voice rang out.

    "What''s happening? I can''t ess my primeval qi!"

    ¡°Indeed, this stairway restricts our cultivation. It''s a test of our willpower. We must climb without relying on our cultivation.¡±

    The crowd settled,prehending the purpose of this trial.

    ¡°What¡¯s there to be afraid of? Even if we can¡¯t use our primeval qi, our physiques far surpass those of ordinary people. Ascending to the top is nothing difficult,¡± said a disciple heroically.

    Many people agreed with him.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t fuss or say a word, stepping forward.

    Each step was ten feet high. It was rather difficult without tools if ordinary people wanted to climb up. Even martial artists had difficulty climbing up with their cultivation restricted.

    Yet, Chen Fan''s robust physique enabled him to leap ten feet high with each step, effortlessly making his way up.

    Not to be outdone, others exerted all their strength, ascending quickly alongside him.

    Nothing much happened in the beginning. However, when these people had climbed a hundred steps up, some could no longer endure it. Theirplexions were pale, and they were panting heavily.

    By the time they had climbed up a hundred steps using their physical strength alone, the people were already out of breath.

    Some people¡¯s legs turned soft like noodles when they reached the three hundredth step. Their chests felt tight, their hearts pumping fiercely, their cheeks flushed. A few dropped to their knees, too exhausted to stand.

    They were all martial artists, but their bodies were still mortal flesh. Without the boost from their primeval qi, their physical strength, though superior to ordinary people, had limits.

    On the three-hundredth step, Chen Fan remainedposed. His body, infused with dragon blood, boasted immense strength.

    He could take on sixth or seventh-level Qigong realm martial artists with his physical strength alone.

    This level of strength made the challenge seem like a game to him.

    Soon, Chen Fan distanced himself from the struggling group.

    Panting and exhausted, they watched in awe as he effortlessly pulled ahead. Murmurs circted, "Is he made of iron? We''re drained, and he seems unfazed."

    ¡°You¡¯re saying the obvious. It¡¯s not like we haven¡¯t seen how physically strong he is at the Outer Sect Grand Competition. This kind of test doesn¡¯t pose any difficulty to him," quipped one disciple.

    Many, unable to persevere, started resting.

    Abruptly, Chen Fan halted, turned, and gazed down. Nonchntly, he remarked, ¡°Already done? On the path of cultivation, countless challenges await, much more arduous than this. What''s a little suffering inparison?¡±

    He stared at the crowd and said solemnly, ¡°The longer you walk on the road of cultivation, the harder it will get. You might find yourself on the cusp of a breakthrough at higher realms yet trapped at a bottleneck. You would have the strength, but you just won¡¯t be able to break through. That state couldst years or even decades.

    ¡°The agony and hopelessness can drive one to contemte suicide! When measured against the profound pain ahead, what¡¯s the slight difort you experience today?

    ¡°Regardless of how exhausting this seems, does it truly plunge us into despair? At the very least, there is still a road ahead of us. We still know we can advance as long as we continue forward.¡±

    Having spoken, Chen Fan ascended without looking back, leaving his words to resonate among the disciples.

 Chapter 184 - Vicious Intent

    <h4>Chapter 184 - Vicious Intent</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s words left the people below stunned. They quickly came back to their senses and fell into deep thought.

    Suddenly, Mu Chen shouted, stood up with trembling legs, and continued climbing. The crowd shouted or thumped their chests to motivate themselves and push forth.

    They had ascended another two hundred steps when a female disciple, one of the five added to fill spots, spat out blood and copsed on the stairs.

    Her cultivation was the lowestte-stage of the seventh level¡ªand her weak physique couldn''t withstand the fatigue. Exhausted, she had forced herself up the five hundred steps but couldn''t endure any longer.

    In wars, the losing side often fled desperately, running to the point of vomiting blood, simr to this female disciple.

    However, no one offered help, and she didn''t seek it.

    It was a test; those who couldn''t pass weren''t qualified for the inner sect.

    Chen Fan went on, leaving hispetition trailing behind.

    He was already at the eight hundredth step when these people were climbing the five hundredth step. He was a whole three hundred steps ahead of the other disciples.

    ¡°That guy, is he still human? No matter how strong his physique is, he should be feeling exhausted by now, right?¡± Some disciples gritted their teeth, looking at Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    They were so tired they could vomit blood after climbing five hundred steps. The heroic air they felt in the beginning was also gone. All they could think of now was to stop and rest properly to regte their condition before continuing their climb.

    However, it seemed like Chen Fan saw the climb as a game. He maintained a steady pace, climbing up continuously.

    Chen Fan felt the gazes directed at him from behind, but he ignored them and climbed without looking back.

    The thousand-step stairway served as a test of willpower and resilience.

    By the eight-hundredth step, even Chen Fan''s breathing had quickened, and his limbs ached.

    A voice in his head urged him to stop, to take a break. Yet, he pressed on, eyes fixed on the nearing mountaintop, determination evident.

    If he couldn''t endure this bit of suffering, how could he aspire to be an unrivaled expert, standing at the peak of the Tianwu Continent?

    At thest step, Chen Fan finally let out a long breath and slowly turned around. He looked below, a heroic feeling rising in his heart. He said brightly, ¡°Reach the highest peak and take a nce; all the surrounding mountains look so small.¡±

    As his voice fell, he walked into the hall ahead.

    "Chen Fan made it to the top!"

    ¡°Reach the highest peak and take a nce; all the surrounding mountains look so small! So heroic!¡±

    "Let''s continue. It''s only a thousand steps. Is this enough to stop us?"

    "I won''t fall behind Chen Fan! Go!"

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone, spurred on by Chen Fan, pressed forward. Even Chen Changfeng''s eyes radiated energy as he climbed like a madman.

    ......

    Chen Fan walked into the hall; immediately, some elders appeared.

    An elder with a long beard said, ¡°Not bad. You climbed the thousand steps in only one hour. What¡¯s your name, little fellow?¡±

    Chen Fan answered, ¡°This disciple is Chen Fan. Greetings to the three elders.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re Chen Fan!¡±

    The elders'' expressions changed noticeably. Their gazes scrutinized Chen Fan thoroughly.

    ¡°Hoho, you¡¯re quite the arrogant one. A mere outer disciple challenged Duan Jingtian, not knowing your limits,¡± scoffed the ck-robed elder with an aquiline nose, wearing a mocking expression.

    All three elders knew about the three-year promise, and it seemed the elder with an aquiline nose was picking on Chen Fan.

    ¡°He¡¯s indeed overestimating himself a little!¡± remarked another elder in a gray robe, smiling coldly.

    The long-bearded elder furrowed his brow slightly and said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get down to business, you two. Verify his identity and record it in the register. Every inner sect disciple is precious to the sect.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, fine. Let¡¯s start checking his identity.¡± The ck-robed elder and the gray-robed elderughed coldly, a cryptic light shing in their eyes.

    The long-bearded elder said, ¡°Chen Fan, ording to the sect rules, we have to work together to check your dantian¡¯s sea of qi and your cultivation. Is that alright?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart shivered. Such scrutiny was unexpected, and he worried that they would discover the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    With a thought, Chen Fan transformed the Heaven Seizing Furnace into an inconspicuous particle, then nodded and said, ¡°No problem.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Elder Yingwu, Elder Xiongwu, let¡¯s begin,¡± said the long-bearded elder, Elder Yangwu.

    Immediately, the three each exerted their forces toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t resist it. Instead, he dispersed his primeval force and allowed those forces to enter his meridians, as this inspection was crucial for bing an inner sect disciple.

    The long-bearded Elder Yangwu¡¯s method was very gentle. His primeval force flowed smoothly along Chen Fan¡¯s meridians for inspection. In contrast, the other elders used their forces forcefully and crudely.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow, a cold light shing in his eyes. Yingwu and Xiongwu couldn¡¯t have been more obvious in showing they supported Duan Jingtian.

    The two used their authority to inspect him like cattle, and Chen Fan had to endure it if he wanted to enter the inner sect. He vowed to settle the score with them in the future.

    Soon, Elder Yangwu was done inspecting. He said, ¡°Mmm, no problem. You may enter the inner sect. Moreover, you''ve already advanced to the Yuanfu realm and can be promoted to an elite disciple..."

    Before Elder Yangwu could finish his sentence, he was interrupted by Elder Xiongwu, ¡°Hold it, Elder Yangwu!¡±

    ¡°What do you have to say, Elder Xiongwu?¡± Elder Yangwu asked, his brows furrowed.

    Elder Xiongwu said, ¡°As everyone knows, Chen Fan was martial trash until half a year ago. Suddenly, he was enlightened and broke through to the Yuanfu realm in just a few months. This is highly unusual.

    ¡°I suspect that a demon is possessing him. We can''t allow someone with unclear origins like him to enter the inner sect!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I agree with Elder Xiongwu. A demon must be living inside this little bastard. How else could he advance so fast? I think we should use a stronger method. Use the Soul Searching Technique to search his soul and verify whether he is possessed,¡± Elder Yingwu said with a cold smile.

    Icy killing intent surged in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The Soul Searching Technique was a very vicious method. Those who had their soul searched would have their soul damaged at best and turn into an idiot at worst.

    Xiongwu and Yingwu actually wanted to use such a vicious method on him. They wanted him dead!

 Chapter 185 - Elite Disciple

    <h4>Chapter 185 - Elite Disciple</h4>

    ¡°That doesn¡¯t seem like a good idea,¡± said Elder Yangwu, his brows creased even tighter.

    Moreover, would they need Soul Searching if Chen Fan were really possessed by a demon?

    Yingwu and Xiongwu used this as an excuse to make things difficult for Chen Fan. By suggesting the Soul Searching Technique, they were making it obvious that they were targeting him.

    Yangwu wasn''t naive; he understood Yingwu and Xiongwu''s ulterior motives. They were trying to curry favor with Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Elder Yangwu, our duty is to prevent petty scoundrels from infiltrating the inner sect. He went from martial trash to a Yuanfu realm expert in just six months. Even Duan Jingtian doesn''t possess such heaven-defying talents, does he?

    ¡°His growth is just too abrupt. Some demon or spirit must have taken hold of him in the Qingyang Mountain Range. Soul Searching is a must to verify and prevent him from getting away with it!¡± Elder Xiongwu said righteously.

    ¡°Haha, how dutiful of you!¡± Chen Fan suddenlyughed. He looked at Yingwu and Xiongwu coldly, a sinister killing intent flickering in his eyes.

    ¡°The entire outer sect knows that I was indeed a martial trash. But by a stroke of luck, I survived a lightning strike. That opened my dantian and unblocked my meridians, propelling me to new heights. Why do you ignore that and insist on a demonic possession?¡±

    ¡°What a joke. You im that the lightning opened your dantian and unblocked your meridians, and we should just believe you... why? Are we to ept any random excuse from those with ill intentions?"

    Elder Yingwu smiled coldly and continued, ¡°Our duty is to identify people like you. People with ill intentions or demons living inside them. We must prevent them from entering the inner sect and harming our Spring Autumn Sect disciples!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Little bastard, if you dare to resist, it must mean that you indeed have a demon in you. I can kill you on the spot!¡± Elder Xiongwu also said coldly, looking as if he was sure to get the better of Chen Fan.

    Simultaneously, a light emanated from Xiongwu and Yingwu''s palms, exuding a peculiar aura. With cold smiles, they prepared to employ Soul Searching.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression became ugly.

    Setting aside the potential consequences of the Soul Searching Technique, he couldn''t allow them to use the technique on him even if there were no side effects.

    Having his soul searched would expose all his secrets, inviting a cmity that could cost him his life, given the opportunities he had obtained.

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯d better not move or put up any resistance. Otherwise, I¡¯ll immediately treat you like a demon and suppress and kill you. Cooperate, and maybe you''lle out unscathed,¡± Elder Xiongwu said, smiling sinisterly.

    Elder Yangwu observed the scene, sighed, and chose not to intervene. They both belonged to the Sect Leader¡¯s faction, and their actions seemed justified.

    Interfering would risk offending Duan Jingtian, something he wished to avoid since he belonged to the neutral faction.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was icy. His primeval force surged wildly, ready to strike back at any time.

    <i>I shouldn¡¯t resist?</i>

    <i>What a joke!</i>

    Suddenly, an icy voice rang in the hall.

    ¡°Yingwu, Xiongwu, how audacious of you trash to dare use Soul Searching on my disciple!¡±

    Following the voice ringing in the hall, the space distorted briefly, and Wei Buyu appeared before them.

    ¡°Wei... Wei Buyu, why... why are you here!¡±

    Yingwu and Xiongwu quaked in their boots. Theirplexions instantly paled, stepping backward.

    Wei Buyu said coldly, ¡°If I hadn''te, my disciple would have suffered at your hands.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not it. We were only fulfilling our duties!¡± Yingwu said timidly.

    ¡°Duties?¡± Wei Buyu advanced, a terrifying aura emanating from him and enveloping Yingwu and Xiongwu. With a resounding boom, both elders knelt under Wei Buyu''s oppressive presence.

    ¡°Wei Buyu, you...¡± Yingwu and Xiongwu¡¯s faces instantly turned red like a pig¡¯s liver, staring angrily at Wei Buyu.

    ¡°What do you mean, you? Your duties? When the Sect Leader¡¯s will descended, did he say a word about Chen Fan being possessed? Let alone the Sect Leader, will I not know if a demon possesses my disciple? Do you trash think you¡¯re stronger than me?¡±

    <i>Pfft Pfft!</i>

    Yingwu and Xiongwu felt like a huge mountain had mmed into them, simultaneously spewing a mouthful of fresh blood.

    Chen Fan sighed in relief.

    He didn¡¯t expect Wei Buyu to appear at such a critical moment.

    If Wei Buyu hadn¡¯te, he would have had to attack, which wouldn¡¯t have ended well for him.

    Yingwu and Xiongwu were at the fifth level. Currently, he couldn¡¯t take on even one of them.

    Looking indifferently at the two forced to kneel on the ground by Wei Buyu, a hint of pleasure rose in Chen Fan¡¯s heart.

    ¡°I¡¯ll let you off this one time. If I am to hear about you two trash trying to harm our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s genius in the dark again, I¡¯ll take your worthless lives!¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s voice, filled with killing intent, reverberated in the hall. Yingwu and Xiongwu¡¯s hearts trembled fiercely.

    They didn¡¯t doubt Wei Buyu¡¯s words, as he had the strength to turn them into reality.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Wei Buyu waved his arm.

    Immediately, a strand of force struck Yingwu and Xiongwu. They screamed miserably and were thrown back, mming onto a wall and spewing blood.

    ¡°You two idiots!¡± Chen Fanughed coldly.

    Since they knew about the promise between him and Duan Jingtian, they were also most likely aware of his rtionship with Wei Buyu.

    However, Yingwu and Xiongwu had tried to harm him just as he was about to enter the inner sect. That was simply courting death.

    ¡°Yangwu, record his name on the register,¡± Wei Buyu said to Yangwu.

    Yangwu nodded and recorded Chen Fan¡¯s name. Then, he took out the uniform and token for elite disciples and handed it to Chen Fan. ¡°Congrattions. From now on, you¡¯re an elite disciple of our Spring Autumn Inner Sect. Remember, our Spring Autumn Sect belongs to the righteous path. Every Spring Autumn Sect disciple must eliminate evil and give peace to the people.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Chen Fan received the uniform and token and nodded.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll bring you into the inner sect,¡± Wei Buyu said. He grabbed Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder, and their figures shed, instantly disappearing on the spot.

    Seeing them leaving, Yingwu and Xiongwu came walking back, stumbling. Their gazes were filled with endless hatred.

    Today, they had suffered a double loss!

 Chapter 186 - Second-level Yuanfu Realm

    <h4>Chapter 186 - Second-level Yuanfu Realm</h4>

    Under Wei Buyu¡¯s lead, Chen Fan reached the exclusive inner sect residential area for elite disciples. It boasted a picturesque environment.

    Chen Fan was a Yuanfu realm expert, so he had been promoted to an elite disciple upon entering the inner sect, a rank higher than inner court disciples.

    Chen Fan''s assigned residence wasn''t the shared dormitory for inner court disciples; instead, he had a private dwelling. The primeval qi gathering formation inside made the primeval qi here exceptionally dense.

    ¡°This is where you''ll stay. If you have any cultivation queries, feel free to seek me out.¡± Wei Buyu didn¡¯t stay for too long.

    After escorting Chen Fan, he transformed into a streak of light, vanishing into the sky.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t mind it. Holding his identity token, he found his residential courtyard and walked in. He spent the next two days strolling around the inner sect and familiarizing himself with the environment.

    Although his name had long spread throughout the inner sect, few knew his appearance. As such, even if some people were discussing him, they didn¡¯t know he was the one they were talking about.

    Chen Fan also refrained from revealing his identity. After getting familiar with the environment, he visited the inner sect¡¯s martial arts pavilion, known as the Scripture Depository.

    While there were no entry restrictions, practicing martial arts within required contribution points¡ªamodity Chen Fancked, being a recent entrant to the inner sect.

    One could get contribution points bypleting sect missions or purchasing them with primeval stones. Chen Fan was rich, but he wasn¡¯t that rich.

    He had to leave the Scripture Depository empty-handed. In his frustration, he encountered Pan Yuansheng, the upant of the neighboring residence, a youth in his early twenties.

    When he saw Chen Fan, he was taken aback momentarily, then greeted, ¡°Yo, you look very unfamiliar. You just entered the inner sect, right?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°You got promoted to an elite disciple right after entering the inner sect. Not bad, not bad. I¡¯m Pan Yuansheng. I live right next to you. What¡¯s your name? Let''s get acquainted and support each other in the inner sect,¡± Pan Yuansheng said, smiling.

    The corners of Chen Fan¡¯s lips twitched.

    <i>Take care of one another?</i>

    <i>Let¡¯s see if that enthusiasm remains after you learn my name. </i>

    Chen Fan answered, ¡°I¡¯m Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, alright. We¡¯re acquaintances now. From now on, you¡¯re a brother of mine. If there¡¯s anything you don¡¯t know about the inner sect, you cane find me¡ª¡±

    Suddenly, Pan Yuansheng seemed to have realized something. He shrieked, ¡°What? You¡¯re Chen Fan? The one with the three-year promise with Duan Jingtian?¡±

    Chen Fan touched the tip of his nose helplessly. He had expected Pan Yuansheng to be surprised, but this just seemed too much.

    Nodding, he said inly, ¡°If there¡¯s no one else in the inner sect named Chen Fan, then it should be me...¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Before Chen Fan could finish his sentence, Pan Yuansheng had already flitted into his residence like a gust of wind.

    ¡°I...¡±

    Chen Fan stood on the spot, watching Pan Yuansheng slip away faster than a rabbit. He wanted to curse out loud but just sighed and walked back into his residence.

    From that day onward, word spread across the inner sect about Chen Fan living in the elite disciple¡¯s area.

    Unfazed by the gossip, Chen Fan dedicated himself to cultivation, seated within the primeval qi gathering formation in his residence.

    After a short period of consolidating, his foundation was already firm. He could now try to advance to the second level.

    He took out the demon core of a tier-two, second-level demon beast in hand and swallowed it. Next, the Heaven Seizing Furnace began revolving to refine the core.

    The furnace spewed out vitality essence that merged with him, strengthening his aura.

    This final step wasn¡¯t a difficult one.

    In just about two hours, the primeval force within Chen Fan erupted like a torrent, shaping thest segment of the secondyer of his primeval vessel.

    With this breakthrough, Chen Fan was now a second-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    The demon core still had some energy left, so Chen Fan continued consolidating his cultivation. After another two hours, he had used the remaining energy to stabilize his cultivation at the second level.

    His lips curled up slightly, showing a faint smile. He sensed the surging power within him, feeling very satisfied.

    ¡°Second level of the Yuanfu realm. Once Myriad Elephants Divine Art is at the eighthyer, I can cultivate the second illusory primeval vessel...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. Wisps of light flickered in them.

    Recasting his physique with dragon blood in the blessednd had advanced the Myriad Elephants Divine Art by leaps and bounds, reaching the seventhyer¡ªthe Body Strengthening realm. His flesh was as tough as treasures now.

    Yet, despite nearly three months passing, the art remained at the peak of the seventhyer, unable to break into the eighth.

    <i>No hurries. With my current cultivation, it shouldn¡¯t be a problem to train myself around the Great Chu Empire. Since the entire inner sect will ostracize me, intentionally or unintentionally, it¡¯s perfect for me to go to the Mission Hall to see what missions there are andplete them outside to earn contribution points. </i>With a quick thought, Chen Fan stood up and walked outside.

    On his way to the Mission Hall, a group of inner sect disciples, all elite disciples, walked in the opposite direction and blocked his path.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s brows creased.

    This group had around six elite disciples, but their cultivation wasn''t that high. The tall and muscr youth at the front, likely the leader, was also at the second level.

    However, these people¡¯s gazes toward Chen Fan were all full of arrogance, looking at him.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s me. What do you want?¡± Chen Fan showed an indifferent expression. He spected that they might be from Heaven''s Alliance, possibly seeking trouble.

    ¡°We¡¯re from that Tianxia Society. I¡¯m Yu Xiong. Come with us now. From now on, you¡¯re a member of our Tianxia Society and will have to work for Senior Brother Feng Tianxia, understand?¡± [1]

    This youth named Yu Xiongughed and said, ¡°How is it? Do you feel pleased and honored?¡±

    Chen Fan raised his brow and said, ¡°Don¡¯t you know I¡¯m on bad terms with Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°We know.¡± Yu Xiong replied.

    ¡°You knew, yet you¡¯re trying to pull me into your group? Aren¡¯t you afraid of offending Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, Duan Jingtian is indeed powerful, but he can¡¯t control the world alone! Although Duan Jingtian is the number one holy disciple of the inner sect, Senior Brother Feng Tianxia isn¡¯t weak either; he is also a holy disciple. We, the Tianxia Society, aren¡¯t afraid of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance.¡±

    Yu Xiong said, ¡°How about it? Considering you''re already on Heaven''s Alliance''s cklist, many in the inner sect want to deal with you for Duan Jingtian. Senior Brother Feng Tianxia, out ofpassion, has authorized us to invite you to join the Tianxia Society. No one will dare confront you in the inner sect with our backing.¡±

    ¡°Oh? That¡¯s so good!¡± Chen Fan chuckled and said, ¡°If I were to agree, then what do I have to do?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s straightforward. Complete the missions assigned to you from above, obey Senior Brother Feng Tianxia¡¯s orders and of course...¡±

    Speaking up until this point, Yu Xiong paused briefly, sizing up Chen Fan, and continued, ¡°Tell us your secrets and the opportunities you¡¯ve gained. Share it with us so we can all progress together...¡±

    As soon as he said this, a cold light immediately shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    As he had expected, they had no good intentions from the start. They had designs on his opportunities.

    1. Tianxia literally means under the heavens. ?

 Chapter 187 - Inner Sect Mission

    <h4>Chapter 187 - Inner Sect Mission</h4>

    Chen Fan was renowned in the entire Spring Autumn Sect. Everyone from the sect elders to the outer sect disciples recognized that name, even if they had never seen him before.

    While it seemed like Yu Xiong¡¯s group was here with kind intentions, their true motive was to exploit him.

    News of Chen Fan''s swift rise to power and acquisition of a heavenly opportunity had spread, making the Tianxia Society covetous of his treasures.

    ¡°Hehe, many thanks for your kind intentions, but I¡¯m not interested,¡± said Chen Fan and prepared to leave

    Yu Xiong froze momentarily before his expression shifted.

    The Tianxia Society, taking the initiative, had invited a newly promoted inner sect disciple to join them, only to face rejection.

    What was it if not a p to their face?

    ¡°Hold it!¡±

    Yu Xiong quickly stopped Chen Fan and said furiously, ¡°How dare you reject us. Don¡¯t you know our strength? Countless inner sect disciples are eager to join us but just can¡¯t!¡±

    Chen Fan shrugged and said indifferently, ¡°Since so many people want to join your Tianxia Society, then you go find them.¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°You have no idea what¡¯s good for you!¡± retorted the other elite disciples of the Tianxia Society, their tones cold and their expressions twisted.

    Yu Xiong¡¯s expression turned cold, and he said, ¡°Our Tianxia Society is one of the strongest forces in the inner sect. Senior Brother Feng Tianxia, our society leader, is among the top ten holy disciples. How dare you reject us!¡±

    "Hoho, that''s interesting," Chen Fan retorted with a mocking expression. Disdainced his words as he continued, "Do I have to join just because your Tianxia Society extended an invitation? Move aside. I¡¯m not interested in your Tianxia Society and don¡¯t need your protection in the inner sect.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, we only invited you because you seem decently strong. Do you really think you¡¯re that great?¡±

    Yu Xiongughed coldly. An icy light flickered in his eyes as he warned, ¡°You¡¯ve already offended Duan Jingtian and will face difficulties in the inner sect. We generously invited you to join us, offering a solution to your predicament. Yet, you dare reject our goodwill? Have you considered the consequences of your choice?¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter whether I¡¯m great or not. What matters is that I won¡¯t join your Tianxia Society or whatever! I''m not even afraid of Duan Jingtian, so I couldn''t care less if I offend your society,¡± said Chen Fan and turned to leave.

    ¡°Damnable little bastard, you dare reject our Tianxia Society! Very well, let''s see if you have the qualifications to refuse!¡± Yu Xiong smiled coldly and struck out with a palm.

    The palm hurtling toward Chen Fan¡¯s back had so much primeval qi that it almost seemed real.

    A cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He had been attacked so tyrannically simply because he had refused their invitation.

    This palm strike was so powerful that no first-level Yuanfu realm could have resisted it.

    Refusing to yield, Chen Fan turned around and countered with a powerful punch.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The palm strike shattered upon impact, and the force of Chen Fan''s punch surged relentlessly toward Yu Xiong.

    ¡°What?¡± Yu Xiong''s expression darkened, unprepared for his palm strike to be broken. Panic flickered in his eyes as he sensed the ferocity of Chen Fan''s punch.

    A realization dawned on him. Chen Fan had defied the heavens and killed a first-level Yuanfu realm expert when he had only been a Qi Grandmaster. Now that he was a Yuanfu realm expert, his strength had undoubtedly skyrocketed. Despite being a second-level expert, he might not be a match for Chen Fan.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    It was a perilous situation. Yu Xiong''s hands blurred into a flurry of motion, conjuring a series of palm seals densely packed in front of him.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s punch shattered countless palm seals in a sh.

    As the seals burst, waves of qi swept out, making the first-level Yuanfu realm disciples from the Tianxia Society pale. They were pushed back as blood trickled from their mouths.

    ¡°Scram!¡± Another punch followed from Chen Fan, unstoppable in its momentum.

    Yu Xiong¡¯s palm seals were no more; he was sent flying backward with a bang. He crashed onto the ground and rolled away.

    Chen Fan looked coldly at the other Tianxia Society elite disciples before walking away. He disappeared into the mountain paths in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Ah, Senior Brother Yu Xiong, are you alright?¡±

    The Tianxia Society disciples soon returned to their senses and rushed to help Yu Xiong.

    Though Yu Xiong''splexion was pallid and his breath shallow, his gaze gleamed with malice. ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Let¡¯s go back. Our Tianxia Society definitely wouldn¡¯t let him off easily!¡±

    ......

    The Mission Hall sprawled expansively, witnessing a constant flow of inner sect disciples.

    Despite the sizable monthly allocation of resources from the sect, cultivating one''s strength demanded more than what the sect provided. The Mission Hall served as a crucial avenue for disciples to acquire additional resources.

    Disciples undertook various missions from here, as they could earn contribution points uponpleting them. These points, in turn, could be exchanged for pills, martial arts techniques, and other necessities within the sect.

    As Chen Fan stepped into the Mission Hall, the lively atmosphere enveloped him.

    Although the inner sect housed a fraction of the outer sect''s disciples, numbering around three thousand, the Mission Hall remained the epicenter of their activity.

    ¡°Quickly look, it¡¯s him, that¡¯s right, him. He¡¯s Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°That guy, how bold of him to dare provoke Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. And that three-year promise? He must be tired of living!¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I think I just saw Chu Tiange. Who knows if he¡¯ll find trouble with him?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Someone recognized Chen Fan as soon as he entered the Mission Hall. Immediately, many people put down whatever they were doing and looked at him with interest.

    Chen Fan remained unperturbed by the attention directed at him. His gaze swept across the hall, noticing the dozen or so primeval mirrors neatly arranged there.

    These mirrors disyed a myriad of missions issued by the sect, individuals, and even outsidersmissioning the sect for specific tasks.

    Anyone could issue a mission as long as they had a need.

    For example, if Chen Fan needed a certain item, he could also issue a mission and have others find it for him. However, that woulde at a cost.

    Regardless of the issuer''s affiliation with the sect, every mission''s rewards were funneled through the sect and ultimately converted into contribution points.

    Even if a mission came from someone outside the sect, oncepleted, and the issuer paid the requiredmission fee to the sect, the individual aplishing the mission would receive their reward in contribution points.

    In simple terms, contribution points were the circting currency in the Spring Autumn Inner Sect.

 Chapter 188 - Chu Tiange

    <h4>Chapter 188 - Chu Tiange</h4>

    Chen Fan walked under one of the primeval mirrors and looked up.

    ¡°Stalk of the tier-2, high-grade Nine-Spotted Poison Melting Grass. The time limit is half a month; the reward is five contribution points. It¡¯s a one-star mission difficulty...¡±

    ¡°Kill the twin warriors of Big ck Mountain¡¯s Lu n. The time limit is one month, and the reward is thirty contribution points. A three-star mission difficulty...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The sect missions unfolded on the primeval mirrors, featuring varied rewards and difficulties. In the Spring Autumn Sect, mission difficulty ranged from one to five stars, with one being the easiest and five being the most challenging.

    Typically, one-star missions were designed for inner court disciples, while elite disciples took on two and three-star tasks. The more demanding four and five-star missions were reserved for the core disciples.

    Though the sect didn''t restrict inner court disciples from undertaking missions meant for elite or core disciples, failure could result in dire consequences, including loss of life.

    With increasing difficulty came greater rewards, tempting many daring disciples to ept missions above their rank despite the high mortality rate.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Chen Fan noticed one of the missions, and his eyes lit up.

    ¡°Eradicate the Blood Saber Stronghold in the Blood Wolf Mountain. Half a month, thirty contribution points, and a two-star mission difficulty.¡±

    The mission list also had a detailed description of the Blood Saber Stronghold.

    ¡°The stronghold chief of the Blood Saber Stronghold, known as Blood Saber, is a second-level Yuanfu realm expert. His two vice-chiefs are at the first level, and his four guardians are all Qi Grandmasters. He also has three hundred mountain bandits in the Qi Gathering realm with varying cultivation levels as subordinates.¡±

    Chen Fan''s interest was piqued. Typically, two-star missions offered rewards ranging from ten to twenty contribution points. However, the Blood Saber Stronghold mission offered thirty contribution points ¡ªten more than usual,parable to a three-star mission.

    This increase likely resulted from the stronghold''s overall strength and the substantial number of bandits, requiring more time and effort to handle.

    Elite disciples in the third or fourth level were naturally uninterested in this kind of mission, while second-level elite disciples mightck the strength to undertake it.

    As a result, the sect had increased the reward to encourage the disciples.

    Chen Fan took note of this in his heart. The mission, given his current capabilities, posed no significant challenge.

    He could even fight someone at the fourth level now if he gave it his all. The absence of third-level Yuanfu realm experts in the Blood Saber Stronghold further bolstered his confidence.

    Chen Fan continued scanning the list to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth dys.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    A cold voice rang out from behind. It was an unexpected interruption.

    Chen Fan frowned and turned around to take a look. A youth stood behind him, looking at him coldly.

    The youth, adorned in in linen attire and carrying a sword, emitted an auramanding aura despite his seemingly ascetic appearance.

    He was a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert!

    Behind him stood several elite disciples in the first or second level. They also looked at Chen Fan coldly, the corners of their lips slightly curled up.

    "Are you here to pick a fight with me?" Chen Fan''s heart sank.

    ¡°I told you to get lost. Are you deaf?¡±

    The youth in linen red, and Chen Fan felt as if two streaks of sword light were prating his mind, making his eyes ache.

    The nearby crowd fell silent by now, eyes fixed on the unfolding confrontation, each disying keen interest.

    ¡°Hehe, as expected, Chu Tiange came to find trouble with this kid.¡±

    ¡°Who told him to offend Senior Brother Duan Jingtian? Chu Tiange worships Senior Brother Duan Jingtian the most. It¡¯s not strange for him to find trouble with Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°I wonder if Chen Fan will retaliate?¡±

    ¡°Retaliate? That''s asking for more trouble! Although the sect discourages disciples from killing each other, no one would object if Chu Tiange taught him a lesson.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd discussed in whispers.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze darkened.

    As expected, these people from the alliance were here to mess with him.

    After thinking briefly, Chen Fan chose not to escte the situation.

    The pressure from Chu Tiange felt overwhelming, and Chen Fan might not be a match even at full strength.

    Immediately, under everyone¡¯s gaze, Chen Fan stepped to the side.

    ¡°He got out of the way!¡±

    "It looks like he''s not foolish enough to invite more trouble. ¡°

    ¡°Chu Tiange wouldn''t spare him easily, though."

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s action surprised the crowd.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chu Tiange''s cold and indifferent voice echoed once more.

    ¡°I knew it!¡±

    "Chen Fan will have to leave the Mission Hall in humiliation today."

    ¡°If he can¡¯t take on any missions, he''ll face numerous challenges in the sect. That''s the price for offending Senior Brother Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Even if he doesn''t intervene personally, many will undoubtedly teach Chen Fan a lesson on his behalf."

    The people gossiped, looking like they were here to enjoy the show.

    A cold light shone in Chen Fan''s eyes as he raised his head to face Chu Tiange.

    ¡°I told you to get lost. Did you not hear me? You want me to throw you outside personally?¡± Chu Tiange¡¯s icy cold gaze was sharper than a sword, hitting his mind and leaving him shaken.

    He met Chu Tiange''s stare with an equally cold expression and uttered icily, ¡°You can try.¡±

    He had taken a step back earlier, but that didn¡¯t mean he feared Chu Tiange. Since he didn¡¯t want to stop his overbearing behavior, Chen Fan saw no reason to back down further.

    Although he didn¡¯t want to expose his true strength so quickly, it was useless to conceal it at this juncture. The only result would be enduring further bullying and disdain. It was time to assert himself decisively and deter those who sought to exploit him.

    ¡°Hehe, looks like you want to try fighting me.¡± Chu Tiange immediatelyughed.

    In his eyes, Chen Fan was a mere first-level ant, yet he dared to challenge his prestige. He was truly overestimating himself and courting death.

    Chen Fan had concealed his cultivation within the Heaven Seizing Furnace. So, everyone here only saw him as a first-level Yuanfu realm cultivator.

    Immediately, a fierce sword intent spread from Chu Tiange, extending in all directions.

    Waves of whistling sounds echoed as his sword qi tore through the air.

    ¡°How scary, what fierce sword intent!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is in for a bad time.¡±

    The crowd¡¯s pupils shrank when they felt Chu Tiange¡¯s cold sword intent. The cold and sharp aura left them feeling suffocated.

    Chen Fan, too, couldn''t ignore it. Chu Tiange was undeniably powerful, and his sword cultivation technique carried a hint of electrical power. Chen Fan felt a slight stabbing pain on his skin as tearing noises filled the air.

    Still, he didn¡¯t retreat. A mass of aura began to rise within him, his eyes filled with murderous intent.

    ¡°Stop it!¡±

    Just as the tension reached its peak, a loud shout pierced through.

    The crowd quickly made way for a middle-aged man in his thirties, dressed in the attire of an elder, exuding an imposing presence.

    When Chu Tiange saw this elder, his fierce gaze flickered abruptly.

 Chapter 189 - Blood Wolf Mountain, Blood Saber Stronghold

    <h4>Chapter 189 - Blood Wolf Mountain, Blood Saber Stronghold</h4>

    ¡°Stop it!¡±

    A cold shout rang out, and an imposing elder, Elder Wang Hui, approached them.

    ¡°It¡¯s Elder Wang Hui.¡±

    ¡°Elder Wang Hui is from the High Elder¡¯s faction. He should be here to help Chen Fan resolve this situation.¡±

    The nearby disciples immediately recognized the elder, their eyes flickering as they gossiped.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Wang Hui walked closer and asked coldly.

    ¡°Elder Wang, this person is acting arrogant and disregarding our Heaven¡¯s Alliance. I¡¯m going to teach him a proper lesson.¡±

    Chu Tiange purposely emphasized the words ¡°Heaven¡¯s Alliance,¡± his threatening intent obvious.

    He knew Wang Hui''s faction, but being a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance on the verge of bing a core disciple, he showed no intention of backing down.

    ¡°Audacious!¡± Wang Hui shouted furiously, making the onlooking crowd¡¯s eardrums buzz. Even Chu Tiange was slightly shaken.

    Wang Hui recognized the threat in Chu Tiange¡¯s words but ignored it and shouted, ¡°Do you think I am deaf and blind? Who gave you the guts to dare cause trouble in the Mission Hall? Chu Tiange, if you don¡¯t back down, I¡¯ll deal with you ording to the sect rules!¡±

    Chu Tiange¡¯s expression stiffened, and his brow creased. ¡°Wang Hui, are you not giving my Heaven¡¯s Alliance any face?¡±

    Indifferent, Wang Hui said coldly, ¡°Face has to be earned. If Duan Jingtian were here, I might consider it, but an elite disciple like you dares to threaten me! Who gave you the audacity? Withdraw now, or I''ll charge you with contradicting an elder!"

    Chu Tiange''s expression darkened. He red at Chen Fan and spat, "I''ll spare you today, but your time wille!"

    Chen Fan shrugged indifferently and said, ¡°Come at me anytime.¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chu Tiange let out another cold harrumph. With a wave of his hand, he left with the other Heaven¡¯s Alliance elite disciples.

    ¡°Many thanks to Elder.¡± Chen Fan cupped his fists toward Wang Hui and thanked him.

    Although he didn¡¯t fear Chu Tiange, he had to show his gratitude because Wang Hui had stood up for him.

    Chen Fan was a Qi Grandmaster just two months ago; now, his strength wasparable to that of a third-level Yuanfu realm expert. It was a potential threat to Duan Jingtian. If he exposed his strength too early, it might make Duan Jingtian act ruthlessly and nip this threat in the bud.

    Although Duan Jingtian might not make a move personally, many experts under him would act in his stead if he sent the word.

    Wang Hui waved his hand and said, ¡°No need for that, but you have to be careful in the future. Duan Jingtian¡¯s standing in the inner sect is very high. While he may not personally trouble you, don''t count on luck."

    ¡°I understand.¡± Chen Fan nodded, fully aware of the potential dangers.

    Wang Hui didn¡¯t speak any further, realizing Chen Fan understood the situation. His gaze swept across the Mission Hall, and his bright voice spread, ¡°Now, I¡¯ll announce a new mission.¡±

    The bustling hall immediately quietened down.

    Everyone¡¯s gazes shifted over curiously, wondering what mission Wang Hui would announce.

    Sect-issued missions would directly appear on the primeval mirrors. Usually, the elders wouldn¡¯t announce them in front of the people.

    ¡°ording to multiple reports, a group of horse-mounted bandits has emerged in the northwest empire,mitting various atrocities. Many victims had their blood drained, turning into dry corpses.

    ¡°The sect suspects demonic cultivation involvement, prompting this mission. Inner sect disciples are authorized to head to the northwest region to investigate and eliminate the evildoers.

    ¡°The sect has alreadyid down some rules. Inner court disciples and elite disciples could earn at least one contribution point for each blood-sucking bandit killed, provided they bring back the blood demon core coalesced in them.¡±

    The announcement sparked immediate discussions among the crowd.

    ¡°Earning one contribution point for every blood-sucking bandit killed? This reward is too generous!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? But since the sect had set such a high price, those blood-sucking bandits must not be easy to deal with. We will need to join forces with others and fight together.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    To put things into perspective, a hundred contribution points could be exchanged for a quasi-profound tier martial art in the Spring Autumn Sect. Killing a blood-sucking bandit would earn them one contribution point. This reward was truly very generous.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes had also lit up.

    <i>Blood-sucking bandits?</i>

    He couldn¡¯t help but recall Sir Blood Shirt, whom he had encountered at Qingyang Mountain Range. Didn¡¯t he kill people and draw their blood to support his cultivation?

    Chen Fan had also gotten the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique from Sir Blood Shirt. Perhaps this group in the northwest region also practiced a simr demonic cultivation technique.

    ¡°Northwest region... Blood Wolf Mountain seems to be in the northwest. It¡¯s on the way.¡± Chen Fan was tempted, so he decided to head northwest to take a look.

    Killing those blood-sucking bandits was a much faster way to earn contribution points than other missions.

    ¡°Elder, are all blood-sucking bandits worth one contribution point regardless of their cultivation level?¡± asked a disciple.

    Wang Hui exined, ¡°Those below Qi Grandmaster are worth one contribution point for every ten; Qi Grandmaster, five; first-level Yuanfu realm, twenty; second-level Yuanfu realm, a hundred; third-level Yuanfu realm, two hundred; fourth-level Yuanfu realm, five hundred; and fifth-level Yuanfu realm, a thousand.¡±

    More questions arose, and Wang Hui addressed each one. Soon, amotion rose in the Mission Hall. The elite disciples went to call their friends and began forming small parties and preparing to head northwest to kill the blood-sucking bandits.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t waste any time, either. He immediately left the sect and went northwest.

    ording to Wang Hui, this mission wasn¡¯t limited to the Spring Autumn Sect. Other sects of the Great Chu Empire would also issue the same mission.

    After all, it was everyone¡¯s duty to exterminate martial artists who practiced demonic cultivation techniques.

    Leaving the sect, he set his course for the northwest. He used the Wings of Rain Dragon and soared into the skies, disappearing into the clouds in the blink of an eye.

    Three dayster, Chen Fan arrived at the foot of Blood Wolf Mountain.

    His goal was to head northwest to exterminate the bandits, but the Blood Wolf Mountain happened to be on the way. Chen Fan nned to spend some time ridding the evil that was the Blood Saber Stronghold and earn himself thirty contribution points.

    Blood Saber Stronghold was located on Blood Wolf Mountain.

    Due to the Blood Saber Stronghold¡¯s presence, there weren¡¯t any viges, towns, or traces of human activities in the surrounding hundred miles. It was deste.

    Chen Fan descended from the sky andnded halfway up Blood Wolf Mountain. From afar, a huge stronghold appeared in his sight.

    The stronghold sprawled across an immense area, boasting hundreds of buildings. Its perimeters were secured by a formidable thirty-foot-tall wall crafted fromrge rocks, exuding an aura of imprability.

    Above the stronghold gates, arge g disying amanding blood-colored saber rippled in the wind.

    In front of the gates, eight bandits with des strapped to their waists were chatting idly.

 Chapter 190 - Massacre on Blood Wolf Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 190 - Massacre on Blood Wolf Mountain</h4>

    ¡°Our haul this time is impressive, thanks to the guardian personally escorting our brothers.¡±

    ¡°We''ve got more than fifty women with us, not to mention the loot."

    "Damn straight!" another bandit chimed in. "But while they''re having a st inside, we''re stuck here, guarding the gate. It''s just not fair. When do we get to join in on the fun?"

    ¡°Haha, Mazi. You''ll be lucky if you don''t embarrass yourself with that tiny thing between your legs.¡±

    "Pfft, mind your own business; mine is far bigger than yours anyway."

    ¡°......¡±

    The eight bandits joked and cursed, passing the time.

    Suddenly, someone young appeared in the distance, striding purposefully toward the stronghold.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± The bandits'' eyes narrowed, their expressions turning fierce in an instant.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    In response, a brilliant sword shed through the air, leaving behind streaks of red as it went.

    These eight bandits guarding the gates couldn¡¯t even let out a cry before they sumbed under Chen Fan¡¯s sword.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Afterward, Chen Fan smashed the stronghold gates open with a punch and walked inside.

    <i>Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!</i>

    Hearing themotion, over a hundred bandits burst out of the stronghold and surrounded Chen Fan, their weapons drawn.

    ¡°To dare barge into our Blood Saber Stronghold, who are you?¡±

    ¡°You''re brave indeed, kid, to kill our brothers. You''re asking for death!¡±

    ¡°Kill him!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The bandits yelled angrily, charging at Chen Fan one after another.

    "Go to hell, all of you!" Chen Fan shouted fiercely, his sword slicing through the air with deadly precision. His sword qi swept across the battlefield, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

    <i>Swish swish swish!</i>

    <i>Pfft pfft pfft!</i>

    These bandits¡¯ cultivation levels were only in the Qi Gathering realm, so they were no match for Chen Fan.

    Although the bandits outnumbered him, they stood no chance against his ferocious attacks. With each strike, multiple enemies would fall, their limbs severed and blood spraying like raindrops. Mutted bodiesy scattered across the ground, evidence of Chen Fan''s devastating power.

    ¡°Ahhhh...¡± Such miserable cries rang out continuously.

    In just a few moments, over a hundred bandits sumbed to Chen Fan''s relentless assault.

    The gruesome spectacle left no doubt as to who ruled this battlefield.

    <i>Swish swish swish...</i>

    Themotion naturally drew even more bandits out of the stronghold.

    Undeterred, Chen Fan pressed onward, his face impassive as he continued his deadly march.

    This was simply a one-sided massacre.

    Even seasoned bandits ustomed to violence trembled at the sight of Chen Fan''s ruthlessness.

    An intense fear was born in their vicious and brutal hearts.

    "Quick, alert the stronghold chief and guards!" a terrified bandit shouted as he fled deeper into the stronghold.

    Chen Fan ignored him and pressed on, his sword shing in the sunlight.

    With each step, he left a trail of death behind him, ruthlessly cutting down his enemies. In mere moments, ten banditsy lifeless at his feet.

    Before long, Chen Fan had nearly wiped out the three hundred bandits, leaving only a few frantically fleeing.

    The teenager before them was a terrifying devil, killing without so much as a blink of his eyes.

    The blood of their brethren dyed the stronghold crimson, gathering into a river of blood that flowed into the distance.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Suddenly, everyone heard a fluttering noise.

    ¡°Who is it? Damn you, you dare kill my Blood Saber Stronghold¡¯s brothers!¡±

    ¡°Damn it! You deserve to die!¡±

    The four neers were all Qi Grandmasters and the guardians of Blood Saber Stronghold.

    As soon as they appeared, Chen Fan swept out like a gust of wind. A few swishes rang out, and four heads flew into the air, their faces frozen in their vicious expressions.

    ¡°You scoundrel! You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Three more silhouettes appeared, emitting powerful auras. The one at the front was a well-built, middle-aged man with a face full of stubble, looking incredibly mighty.

    This person was the chief of Blood Saber Stronghold, Blood Saber himself.

    Next to Blood Saber were two middle-aged men with dark expressions. They were the two vice-chiefs of Blood Saber Stronghold.

    ¡°Little bastard, I don¡¯t care who you are. Daring to massacre your way into Blood Saber Fortress, only death awaits you," snarled Blood Saber. He was enraged as he approached the grisly sight before him¡ªa river of blood flowing and limbs scattered about. His eyes zed with fury as a murderous aura radiated from him. With a deafening roar, he charged forward, causing the wind to howl around him.

    "As of now, Blood Saber Fortress shall cease to exist!" dered Chen Fan nonchntly.

    A nearby vice leader sneered, "Such audacious words! Brat, being in the Yuanfu stage at such a tender age means you must hail from some esteemed sect.

    ¡°But you want to annihte our Blood Saber Fortress single-handedly? Look into the mirror and see if you truly possess that power. We have killed many sect disciples like you!¡±

    ¡°No need for you to intervene personally, Chief. Let me handle this insolent brat."

    This vice chief spoke confidently after noticing Chen Fan¡¯s first-level cultivation level. [1]

    Blood Saber nodded and said, ¡°Alright, you go, Third Brother, but don¡¯t kill him straight away. Chop off his limbs and cripple his cultivation. I want to raise him in a jar and use his flesh and blood to feed poisonous insects!¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡±

    The third chief of the Blood Saber Stronghold smiled sinisterly, revealing two rows of clean and white teeth. He shot forward, and a ck saber appeared in his hand. He shed down at Chen Fan¡¯s head like he was cleaving a mountain.

    The dark saber light was chilling and shockingly powerful.

    The third chief was still smiling sinisterly when his smile suddenly stiffened.

    A cold light had shed past him like the wind. It split him in half from the waist. His intestines and organs sttered on the ground.

    ¡°Ah!¡± The third chief let out a miserable scream before breathing hisst.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Third Brother!¡±

    Blood Saber and the second chief¡¯s eyes instantly went wide in disbelief.

    Their third brother, a first-level Yuanfu realm expert, was killed in one sh!

    Blood Saber furrowed his brow tightly and shouted coldly, ¡°Second Brother, let¡¯s strike together and kill him!¡±

    He wasn¡¯t arrogant and cocky. He had realized that Chen Fan¡¯s strength had to be extraordinary. If they continued underestimating him, they might pay with their lives.

    He had expanded Blood Saber Stronghold to such arge scale and gained a firm foothold in Blood Wolf Mountain, so one could say that he wasn¡¯t entirely stupid.

    The second chief and Blood Saber rushed forward.

    Blood Saber took the lead, wielding arge, crimson saber, and shed out. A bloody light shed brightly.

    ¡°Blood Cloud sh!¡±

    Crimson saber qi tore through the air like a blood cloud, its momentum unstoppable.

    ¡°Mad Saber sh!¡±

    The vice chief didn¡¯t go easy, either. The air exploded due to the ferocious aura when he shed down with his saber.

    ¡°Wind Demon Sword Light!¡±

    However, facing the two¡¯s all-out attacks, Chen Fan didn¡¯t try to dodge at all. He shed with Autumn y, and an icy cold sword light swept out, destroying everything.

    Blood Saber and the vice chief¡¯s shes broke like ss upon meeting this sword light.

    ¡°Wind Demon Cross sh!¡±

    Flicking his wrist, Chen Fan switched his attack, shing out horizontally and vertically in a sh.

    Two streaks of sword qi formed a cross and shot out.

    Blood Saber and the vice chief¡¯s weapons broke into halves following two snapping noises. The terrifying sword qinded on them, and blood blossomed from their chests.

    ¡°Wind Demon Blood Rain!¡±

    When Chen Fan attacked for the third time, the entire space seemingly transformed into a battlefield full of blood and rain, the wind howling and the water freezing.

    After executing three styles of the Nine Swords of Wind Demon consecutively, Chen Fan stopped and stood quietly on the spot.

    The second chief was in pieces on the ground¡ªdead.

    Blood Saber had been cleaved in half and was also on the ground but alive. He was on the verge of death, and his eyes were filled with horror.

    1. Reminder: Chen Fan can conceal his cultivation. ?

 Chapter 191 - Myriad Elephants Divine Art Eighth Layer

    <h4>Chapter 191 - Myriad Elephants Divine Art Eighth Layer</h4>

    ¡°You...¡±

    On his final breath, fear filled Blood Saber as he gazed at the indifferent Chen Fan.

    He never expected such a day to befall him. Three hundred men fell in a brief span, and he, too, couldn''t escape death.

    ¡°You¡¯vemitted numerous evils. Die!¡±

    Pointing at him, Chen Fan nced at Blood Saber indifferently, and a streak of primeval force shot out, ending his life.

    He took off the storage ring on Blood Saber¡¯s finger, scavenged the stronghold, and released the imprisoned women and ves.

    These people kowtowed repeatedly to Chen Fan in gratitude and thanked him for his deeds. Chen Fan distributed the bank notes in Blood Saber¡¯s storage ring and let them find their way home.

    Chen Fan didn''t immediately depart from Blood Saber Stronghold. He meticulously examined the contents of Blood Saber''s storage ring.

    There weren¡¯t many good items, but one thing brought a smile to Chen Fan¡¯s face¡ªHeavenly Lightning Stone Inscription.

    About the size of his palm, it was entirely ck, adorned with markings of varying depths, resembling those made by a demon beast''s sharp ws.

    The Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription contained a trace amount of heavenly lightning. It could heavily injure even someone at the third level of the Yuanfu realm.

    Unfortunately for Blood Saber, he couldn¡¯t invoke the power of the Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription in time and was cut down by Chen Fan at lightning speed.

    Of course, given Chen Fan¡¯s current strength, even the Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription would have failed.

    What truly interested him was its heavenly lightning, as it was ideal for tempering his flesh.

    Its tempering prowess also exined how Blood Saber survived even after Chen Fan had executed three moves of Nine Swords of Wind Demon.

    He must have regrly used its power to temper his flesh, making it tougher than the flesh of ordinary experts of the second level.

    ¡°With this Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription, I should be able to bring the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the eighthyer!¡±

    Chen Fan looked at the Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription in his hand. The flickering heavenly lightning within pierced his protective primeval force, inducing a numb sensation in his palm.

    His Myriad Elephants Divine Art had been stuck at the peak of the seventhyer for more than three months. With the Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription, he now saw an opportunity.

    While small realm breakthroughs in the Myriad Elephants Divine Art were generally manageable, Chen Fan''s physique demanded considerable effort to advance to the nextyer after he had reforged it.

    Chen Fan promptly assumed a lotus position on the ground, focusing on harnessing the heavenly lightning within the inscription.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Crackles echoed as numerous lightning snakes surged from the stone, converging on its surface and generating electrifying noises.

    ¡°Up!¡±

    Chen Fan tossed it up. The Heavenly Lightning Stone Inscription flew above his head and hovered in the air. With a crackle, a thunderbolt descended from it and rushed into him.

    <i>Bzzt bzzt bzzt...</i>

    Chen Fan trembled as lightning snakes danced on his skin.

    Numbness engulfed him as the heavenly lightning''s power surged into his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones, refining his physique.

    <i>Bzzt! Bzzt! Bzzt!</i>

    Despite its size and the mere trace of heavenly lightning, the stone had released a bolt of remarkably strong and fearsome lightning.

    As the lightning arcs covered Chen Fan, he began to look like a man-shaped lightning bolt. The power of lightning had covered him from head to toe.

    Chen Fan''s physique started transforming as the power of the heavenly lightning erupted.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, allowing ancient wild elephant runes to flow through his flesh and blood, seamlessly merging with them.

    As he channeled his cultivation, his primeval force morphed into ancient wild elephants that growled in unison.

    Concurrently, the heavenly lightning continued its work, transforming the ancient wild elephants within him into entities akin to ancient lightning wild elephants.

    Their power permeated his bone marrow, gradually enhancing the resilience of Chen Fan''s flesh through relentless tempering.

    Time psed swiftly, and in a mere four hours, a pivotal moment arrived.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Thest wisp of heavenly lightning in the stone inscription, lingering above Chen Fan''s head, descended and merged with him.

    Devoid of heavenly lightning, the stone inscription shattered instantly, disintegrating into ash and dispersing into the air.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura instantly rose explosively. A faint golden light emanated from him.

    If one were to look closely at his flesh and blood, they would see the ancient wild elephants within, growling in unison.

    It was as if his cells had turned into miniature ancient wild elephants.

    Finally, Chen Fan had advanced to the eighthyer. Opening his eyes, he sensed the infinite power surging deep inside him.

    ¡°The eighthyer... Now, I should be able to fight against second-level Yuanfu experts relying purely on physical strength!¡±

    A brilliant light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°With my physique¡¯s toughness improved, my chances of cultivating the second illusory primeval vessel have also greatly increased...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, his smile broadening. He closed his eyes again and started cultivating the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art.

    Upon bing a first-level Yuanfu realm expert, he had seamlessly continued by cultivating his first illusory primeval vessel.

    Now, with the added strength from his Myriad Elephants Divine Art breakthrough, cultivating a second illusory primeval vessel posed little challenge.

    Leveraging his prior experience, Chen Fan efficiently advanced,pleting the cultivation of the second illusory primeval vessel in a mere two hours.

    Positioned on either side of the original, the two illusory vessels were interconnected, and they made the original primeval vessel shine brighter.

    <i>Phew! </i>

    With a faint smile, Chen Fan rose, exhaling turbid qi.

    He circted his qi and nted his feet firmly on the ground. The original and illusory primeval vessels boomed and drummed, and waves of power flowed like a torrent inside him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As Chen Fan threw a punch, the air at the tip of his fist resonated with a booming sound, creating a white ring of air current. Subsequently, the air surged like rolling waves.

    The tremendous force from his fist, resembling a cannonball, decimated the entire Blood Saber Stronghold, reducing it to ruins.

    ¡°Nice!¡±

    Chen Fan nodded slightly, satisfied with the results.

    Although his cultivation level was still at the second level of the Yuanfu realm, his strength had instantly skyrocketed with his physique breakthrough and forming his second illusory primeval vessel.

    Now, he wasn¡¯t afraid of facing a fourth-level Yuanfu expert head-on.

    If he encountered Chu Tiange again, he wouldn¡¯t feel the slightest pressure!

 Chapter 192 - Distress Signal

    <h4>Chapter 192 - Distress Signal</h4>

    The cold wind violently howled, carrying with it a sweeping sandstorm that veiled the sky.

    All travelers found themselves coated in a thickyer of yellow sand, depicting the harsh ground situation in the northwest.

    Although it was already March, the region retained a wintry atmosphere, with asional heavy snowfall.

    Like a cold knife, the biting wind sliced through the air, capable of piercing the protective primeval qi of martial artists.

    The northwest climate was arid, offering only andscape of yellow soil, sand, and earthen hills. In the distance, sporadic bare trees trembled in the cold wind, and jackdaws cawed, intensifying the prevailing destion.

    ¡°Ptooi!¡± Mu Chen spat, his saliva freezing instantly in the chilling wind, producing a cracking noise upon hitting the ground.

    ¡°The weather in the northwest is too damn bad. The sandstorm is so fierce that even my spit turns to ice. If not for our profound cultivation, we might have frozen to death. I wonder how the locals endure such winters," remarked a Spring Autumn Inner Sect disciple, interrupted as the sandy wind invaded his mouth, prompting him to spit out the grit in frustration.

    The appearance of bloodsucking bandits in the northwest, practicing demonic cultivation techniques and terrorizing themon people, led numerous sects in the Great Chu Empire to issue eradication missions. Many disciples, driven by this cause, had journeyed to the region.

    Mu Chen, Lu Yun, and Wei Rufeng were on friendly terms. They found two more inner sect disciples to join their group and came to the northwest, braving the air full of sand.

    About two hours after Mu Chen¡¯s group of five left, Chen Fan also appeared. Contrary to theirints and disheveled states, Chen Fan appeared remarkablyposed.

    A protectiveyer of qi enveloped him. The membrane was fending off the sandstorm and biting cold, so not a speck of dust marred his clean attire.

    Other individuals at the first or second level of the Yuanfu realm couldn''t do something like this.

    Although they could circte their qi to shield themselves, they couldn¡¯t bear to waste their primeval force and exhaust it as recklessly as Chen Fan.

    Observers might deem his actions reckless and him an inexperienced cultivator.

    Out on a mission, conserving primeval qi for potential encounters with formidable adversaries was of paramount importance.

    Wasting primeval force to shield off some wind, sand, and cold was simply suicide.

    Chen Fan, seemingly indifferent to the conventional wisdom, maintained his stance. After all, his primeval force reservoir was exceptionally robust, far surpassing his peers.

    Even in the Qi Gathering realm, he had ten times the primeval qi others had. Now that he had advanced to the Yuanfu realm, his primeval vessel was also muchrger than others.

    The primeval force within him was several times that of his counterparts, rendering the use of a small amount inconsequential.

    ¡°Hmm? There¡¯s the smell of blood ahead. Seems like there''s trouble!¡± Without making contact with the ground, he swiftly propelled himself forward, navigating through the sandstorm. He soon vanished into the distant, cold wind, covering over ten miles in moments.

    Arriving at a town, he furrowed his brow in deep concern.

    Comparable in size to Zhuxian Town, this town bore a haunting atmosphere as its lifeless inhabitants, men, women, the elderly, and even infants,y strewn across the streets.

    Dark red blood painted the ground.

    The entire town''s resources had been mercilessly plundered.

    The dry corpses strewn all over the ground all had grim expressions. Some of them were clutching something, their bodies curled up, seemingly having suffered greatly before death.

    Wild wolves roamed the town, feasting on the bones of the deceased, creating an eerie symphony of crunching sounds that mirrored a hellish scene.

    Chen Fan sucked in a breath of cold air.

    He went up to check on the corpse of a man in his prime. He discovered a wound on its neck, which appeared to be a bite mark.

    This man had died from having his neck bitten and his blood sucked dry.

    One could only imagine what kind of grueling pain this person suffered before his death.

    The chilling wind whistled like the cries of ghosts in this town full of dry corpses, making Chen Fan¡¯s heart twitch.

    The wolves howled at the sight of a living person, nning to pounce on Chen Fan. He dealt with them effortlessly with a flick of his finger.

    ¡°What a cruel method of sucking blood. These evil martial artists are simply heartless, to turn an entire town into hell on earth and not even spare babies," Chen Fan remarked, anger shing in his eyes.

    ¡°If we don¡¯t exterminate these blood-sucking bandits quickly, who knows how many more people will be harmed.¡±

    Crouching down, Chen Fan blew away the yellow sand, revealing bloody hoof prints leading into the distance.

    He touched the bloodstains and muttered, ¡°They passed through here ten to twelve hours ago. The cold froze the blood. So many hoof prints... There are likely a few thousand of them. They swept through this town, killing off the poption in less than an incense¡¯s worth of time.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up, looking ahead, and narrowed his eyes slightly. ¡°If I follow these hoof prints, I can probably catch up to those damnable blood-sucking bandits.¡±

    Immediately, Chen Fan vanished from the spot as he rushed out of the town, following the hoof prints on the main road.

    The northwest region was dull and gloomy, with sand dunes everywhere. Some civilian residences could asionally be seen between the sand dunes, but they were all in ruins.

    Rumors had it that the northwest region was flourishing thousands of years ago. It housed the prosperous Lon Ancient Kingdom.

    However, the sandstorm gradually swallowed up the ce. It led to neglect and decay. Many inhabitants abandoned the region, and the once-mighty Lon Ancient Kingdom sumbed to natural cmities and human misfortune.

    Chen Fan continued his journey deeper into the northwesternnds, encountering remnants of towering cities left behind by history.

    Chen Fan traveled for several hundred miles after leaving that town.

    The sky was turning dark. As an adept cultivator, he possessed night vision, allowing him to discern details even without daylight.

    Overhead, dark clouds loomed, hinting at an impending snowfall.

    "There''s a ruined ancient city ahead," Chen Fan noted, his sharp gaze piercing through space to identify city walls standing ten miles away. His eyes narrowed as he said, ¡°Those bandits should be resting in this ancient city. There are even Yuanfu realm experts among them. I have to be careful.¡±

    Despite his confidence in his strength, caution weighed on Chen Fan.

    These bandits numbered several thousand, with even Yuanfu realm experts among them. If they were to surround him, he would be in danger since he couldn¡¯t possibly fend them off alone.

    In the unpredictable world, vignce was paramount.

    The ancient city sat in the cold winds of the night. The ruined city walls recorded the vicissitudes of thousands of years.

    Chen Fan withdrew his aura and quickly approached the ancient city.

    However, when he reached two to three miles from the city, a re shot up into the sky, exploding into vibrant fireworks that spelled out the words "Spring Autumn."

    This wasn''t just any distress signal¡ªit hade from Spring Autumn Sect disciples.

 Chapter 193 - Blood Sucking Bandit

    <h4>Chapter 193 - Blood Sucking Bandit</h4>

    In the ancient, ruined city, interconnected streets stretched into the distance. Whirlwinds swept through, creating eerie sounds that echoed as if they were the entrance to the underworld.

    Deserted shops lined the sides of the city, their signboards eroded by time.

    Mu Chen¡¯s group of five walked around cautiously on a street.

    Everyone in this small party was a Qi Grandmaster, hoping to kill a few blood-sucking bandits and earn some contribution points. That would help them prepare for their advancement into the Yuanfu realm.

    Weary from their journey, the group observed the darkening sky and gathering clouds, signaling an impending heavy snowfall.

    Even a first-level Yuanfu expert would struggle to endure the bitter cold throughout the night, let alone them.

    Exhausted and seeking refuge, they stumbled upon the ruined ancient city and decided to spend the night there.

    ¡°Let¡¯s find a ce...¡± Before Mu Chen could finish, the city gates behind them unexpectedly closed with a creaking noise, sending shivers down their spines.

    ¡°Who is it!¡± The five were rmed, panic evident in their eyes as they turned around, sensing an ambush.

    Mu Chen and hispanions were well aware of their strengths.

    Qi Grandmasters were by no means weak. However, the bandits active in the northwest region numbered in the thousands. And some of them were even Yuanfu realm experts, making any encounter with them a deadly affair.

    The group had nned to seek out and eliminate smaller groups of blood-sucking bandits led by Qi Grandmasters. They had never even thought of taking the initiative to look for the main army.

    <i>Caw, caw, caw, caw, caw...</i>

    A cacophony of cawing filled the air, resembling jackdaws or perhaps malevolent spirits. The eerie sound echoed mysteriously, making it impossible to pinpoint its origin.

    ¡°Be careful. Something is strange in this ancient city. We might havee across arge group of blood-sucking bandits. Get into formation, back to back!¡± Mu Chen hurriedlymanded.

    As themand left his lips, a strange bloody silhouette suddenly appeared behind him, baring its fangs and brandishing its ws as it pounced at him. Its unsettling demeanor sent shivers down their spines.

    That strange bloody silhouette wed at him ruthlessly; its five sharp, bloody ws swiped down at his head. The fierce, blood-colored attack directly tore through Mu Chen¡¯s protective primeval qi.

    The smell of blood was so strong it could nearly cause them to faint.

    Mu Chen let out a heave and vomited from the stench of blood. He was about to get wed to his death by the bloody silhouette. Standing beside him, Wei Rufeng reacted in time and revolved his cultivation, shing down fiercely with his de.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The strange bloody silhouette''s w altered its trajectory, colliding with Wei Rufeng''s oing de qi, resulting in a violent explosion.

    The bloody silhouette was hurled backward, revealing a figure adorned in a bloody shirt.

    A Qi Grandmaster blood-sucking bandit stood before them, his gaze sanguinary, sharp teeth on disy, sending chills down their spines.

    ¡°Blood-sucking bandit!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others¡¯ pupils shrank violently.

    ¡°Keke, you¡¯re really damn useless, Xue Shiba. You can¡¯t even deal with a pubeless kid.¡± A mocking voice rang out from somewhere in the empty ancient city. [1]

    <i>Sasa, sasasa...</i>

    Simultaneously, a wave of footsteps reverberated in the deserted ancient city, apanied by wind carrying a pungent, bloody odor, threatening to make the group nauseous again.

    ¡°This is bad. We''ve likely walked into a blood-sucking bandit ambush. There must be at least a thousand of them in this ancient city." Mu Chen and the others¡¯plexion instantly went pale.

    Human silhouettes d in blood-stained shirts emerged from all directions in the ancient city, each exuding a bloody aura with ferocious expressions. Their cruel gazes were fixated on the group as if they were delectable prey.

    "We''re truly unlucky. There are numerous blood-sucking bandits in this city, including over ten Qi Grandmasters. What do we do? We''re finished! We''re as good as dead!" Li He, an inner sect disciple, eximed with a pale face, his legs trembling.

    ¡°Calm down. Quickly send out the distress signal to call for help. With luck, there might be others nearby.¡± Lu Yun, dressed in white and possessing an extraordinary demeanor, shouted.

    Simultaneously, a fireworks shell appeared in his hand, which he threw into the sky.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A brilliant light erupted in the sky, apanied by a continuous whistling noise, spelling out the words ¡°Spring Autumn¡± in the sky.

    ¡°Send it. I''ve long set up an inescapable for miles around us. There''s no one within ten miles. Your hopes of calling for help are futile.¡± A cold, eerie voice rang out.

    With a fluttering noise, a man in a blood-colored robe descended from the sky¡ªthe leader of the blood-sucking bandits.

    ¡°Yuanfu realm expert!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others¡¯ faces became ashen. Only fear remained in their eyes.

    They couldn¡¯t even deal with ten Qi Grandmasters, so the arrival of a Yuanfu realm expert left them with no hope for survival.

    ¡°Five brats with Qi Grandmaster cultivation. That¡¯s not bad. You guys share their fresh blood among yourselves.¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    The numerous blood-sucking bandits surrounding themughed maniacally.

    ¡°Do it!¡± ordered the leader.

    They were about to be surrounded and killed.

    Just as the blood-sucking bandit leader issued the order to kill, a distant, long whistle echoed from outside the ancient city.

    Initially faint, the whistle rapidly closed the distance, reaching the skies above the city in just two breaths. Next, the soundwaves rumbled unceasingly like thunder, shaking the whole city.

    Everyone¡¯s expressions darkened.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Simultaneously, a mournful sound sliced through the air.

    A huge sword light shot into the ancient city. Everywhere it passed, the air was torn apart, producing loud booms.

    Swift as lightning, the sword light traversed the city, cleaving countless bandits in half, blood spraying in its wake.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The onught continued as another razor-sharp streak of sword light streaked through the air.

    The blood-sucking bandit leader¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    He flew up into the air, swooping like a roc as he revolved his cultivation fiercely, primeval force flowing around him like blood.

    Grabbing with his hand, his primeval force condensed into a Blood Shadow Divine Whip. Heshed violently at the oing sword light.

    With a bang, the Blood Shadow Divine Whip collided fiercely with the sword light. The sword light exploded, and the blood-sucking bandit leader flew back,nding with a stumble.

    ¡°Who is it?¡± shouted the blood-sucking bandit leader, his gaze sharp as a sword, looking at the top of the city wall.

    A human stood there, brandishing a sword and emanating an extraordinary aura.

    Who else could this person be if not Chen Fan!

    1. Xue Shiba literally means Blood Eighteen. ?

 Chapter 194 - Completely Wiped Out

    <h4>Chapter 194 - Completely Wiped Out</h4>

    When he saw the distress signal, Chen Fan immediately flew up to the city wall. From his vantage point, he quickly noticed Mu Chen and the others surrounded by countless blood-sucking bandits.

    Perched atop the city wall, his frigid gaze scanned the surroundings, sending shivers through the onlookers.

    When he moved, he looked like a lightning bolt, and his cold gaze alone could make their minds waver.

    In a stern tone, Chen Fan said, ¡°You evildoers, how dare you ambush our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s disciples.¡±

    The blood-sucking bandit leader sharply asked, ¡°Who are you?¡±

    He could already tell the neer was extraordinary.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Chen Fan!¡±

    By recognizing Chen Fan, Mu Chen and hisrades felt a surge of relief, as if they had found a lifeline in their dire situation surrounded by blood-sucking bandits, including a formidable Yuanfu realm leader.

    ¡°Are you guys alright?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking at Mu Chen and the others.

    They hurriedly nodded. ¡°We¡¯re fine.¡±

    "Good. Take care of yourselves." Chen Fan whistled, the sound waves sweeping out like a tidal force.

    Like an eagle diving for its prey, Chen Fan vaulted off the city wall, the Autumn y in his hand emanating a flurry of cold sword light. In his vicinity, wind demons roared and hissed.

    ¡°Die!¡± The single utterance from Chen Fan carried an overwhelming killing intent.

    His sword qi morphed into a pervasive cold wind, whistling in all directions and swiftly cleaving many bloodthirsty bandits in half.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof!</i>

    ¡°First-level Yuanfu realm...¡±

    The blood-sucking bandit leader assessed Chen Fan''s strength and began feeling confident. He bellowed, ¡°Let¡¯s kill him together. I¡¯ll drain his blood to advance to the second level!¡±

    The blood-sucking bandit leader charged forward, conjuring a Blood Shadow Divine Whip from his crimson primeval force. With a cracklingsh, it threatened to rupture flesh and turn it into a bloody mess upon impact.

    The ten Qi Grandmasters joined the assault, unleashing various formidable attacks with their crimson primeval qi.

    It seemed like Chen Fan alone was being drenched by a crimson downpour.

    The ordinary blood-sucking bandits showed no signs of fear. Their crimson de qi streaks, containing blood poison, flew everywhere. A mere whiff of the poison could supposedly lead to the poison qi to attack his heart.

    ¡°Overestimating yourselves!¡± Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid at all.

    Three heads and six arms materialized behind him. They plunged into the midst of the blood-sucking bandits as they delivered forceful strikes.

    Each punch bore the power to rend open a mountain. A single punch could dispatch tens of ordinary blood-sucking bandits.

    Wind Demon Sword Light!

    Wind Demon Cross sh!

    Wind Demon Blood Rain!

    Wind Demon Grotto Heaven!

    ......

    Chen Fan seemed to have entered a realm of invincibility, unleashing the Undefeated King''s Fist with wild strikes and executing the Nine Swords of Wind Demon. The fierce sword lights crushed everything, breaking apart the attacks from the bandits and their leader.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Arge swathe of ordinary bandits fell to Chen Fan¡¯s sword. Miserable cries rang out everywhere, and blood demon cores flew out from them.

    Martial artists didn¡¯t have demon cores in them like demon beasts. Yet, these bandits, practitioners of a blood-sucking demonic cultivation technique, were an exception. Their hybrid nature, half human and half demon, concentrated the essence of their cultivation within the blood demon core.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    ¡°Curses!¡±

    The bandit leader seethed as Chen Fan brutally killed his subordinates.

    Simultaneously, an intense fear gripped him as Chen Fan single-handedly shattered theirbined attacks, showcasing a terrifying strength.

    ¡°All of you beasts deserve to die!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t go easy in the slightest.

    They had embraced the path of darkness, practicing a demonic cultivation technique to gain strength. They killed countless people in their pursuit of strength, absorbing their blood. Their sins demandedplete extermination.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Chen Fan charged like a relentless road roller, obliterating everything in his path. His six arms attacked in a craze. Ordinary blood-sucking bandits exploded upon impact, leaving behind their blood demon cores.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    With a swift swing of the Autumn y, a sharp and fierce sword light cleaved through another swathe of blood-sucking bandits.

    Mu Chen¡¯s group of five was also bravely fighting and killing on their side.

    Chen Fan held back all the Qi Grandmasters and the bandit leader alone while they faced a bunch of sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-level Qigong bandits. They didn¡¯t feel any pressure at all, ughtering these ordinary bandits as they liked and collecting their blood demon cores.

    Ten blood demon cores of ordinary blood-sucking bandits were equivalent to one contribution point. By ughtering these bandits, each would obtain at least ten contribution points.

    Chen Fan, also engrossed in the bloodshed, paid little attention to Mu Chen''s group.

    He killed the ordinary blood-sucking bandits and the Qi Grandmaster bandits. His sword qi swept through the air majestically, hissing and roaring like a wind demon.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A wretched scream pierced the air as the bloodsucking bandit leader felt the impact of a streak of sword qi. His arm detached, and hisplexion turned pallid, drenched in cold sweat.

    By now, how could he not understand how terrifying Chen Fan was!

    One man with one sword ughtered his way into the midst of the blood-sucking bandits. Killing them was as simple as taking out an item from a pouch to him.

    Even if these people joined forces, they weren¡¯t a match for Chen Fan.

    ¡°Wind Demon Chaotic Dance!¡±

    ¡°Wind Demon Shocking Cloud sh!¡±

    Chen Fan swung his sword with an indifferent expression. Several terrifying sword lights intertwined, forming an inescapable that surrounded them.

    With a few poofs, more Qi Grandmaster bandits were diced.

    ¡°Run!¡±

    The blood-sucking bandit leader immediately rose to the skies, thinking of escaping.

    Chen Fan was too terrifyingly powerful. He was no match for him at all.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    However, just as he rose into the sky, a streak of sword light chased him, breaking through all his defenses and cutting him in halves. He plummeted from the sky, unable to put up any form of resistance.

    From the leader''s corpse emerged a blood-colored demon corerger and more powerful than the ordinary bandits. Despite it emitting a strong, corrosive, bloody aura, Chen Fan paid no attention and pocketed the blood demon core.

    The blood-sucking bandit leader was in the first level of the Yuanfu realm, which meant his blood demon core was worth twenty contribution points.

    <i>Pfft, pfft, pfft...</i>

    The sounds resembling chopping vegetables echoed, indicating the death of a thousand or so bloodsucking bandits. Their corpses piled up on the ground, blood flowing like a river and staining the gloomy sky with a gruesome hue.

    Chen Fan¡¯s hand rolled in a circr motion, and immediately, the blood demon cores of those bandits flew into his hand simultaneously.

    The blood demon cores of ordinary bandits numbered around five to six hundred and were worth one contribution point for every ten. That tranted to between fifty and sixty contribution points. The ten Qi Grandmaster bandits were worth fifty contribution points total, and the first-level Yuanfu realm bandit leader was twenty contribution points.

    Chen Fan harvested close to a hundred and thirty contribution points in one go, enough for him to exchange for a quasi-profound tier martial art in the inner sect¡¯s Scripture Depository.

 Chapter 195 - Traveling Together

    <h4>Chapter 195 - Traveling Together</h4>

    Mu Chen and the other party members beamed with smiles.

    They hadn¡¯t killed as many bandits as Chen Fan, but the five of them united and charged into the bandit ranks like ferocious wolves among a flock of sheep. They slew no fewer than five hundred ordinary blood-sucking bandits.

    Five hundred ordinary blood demon cores were equivalent to fifty contribution points. They could split them up, each earning ten contribution points.

    While this amount paledpared to Chen Fan''s achievements, it still marked a significant harvest for them.

    ¡°Chen Fan, many thanks for saving us," Mu Chen expressed his gratitude, cupping his fists.

    They would have paid with their lives without Chen Fan¡¯s help, let alone earning contribution points. The blood-sucking bandits would have drained their blood, leaving them as lifeless, bloodless husks.

    It was a true life-saving grace.

    ¡°Thank you very much for saving our lives.¡±

    Lu Yun and the others also approached Chen Fan to express their gratitude.

    Although Chen Fan was having a hard time in the inner sect, they weren¡¯t members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Thus, they didn¡¯t feel any hostility toward him.

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°No need for that. Everyone is duty-bound to eliminate practitioners of demonic cultivation techniques.¡±

    With that, he turned to leave.

    ¡°Wait a moment, Chen Fan," Mu Chen called out.

    ¡°Is there anything else?¡± Chen Fan turned around and asked.

    Mu Chen looked somewhat awkward.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow and said, ¡°Just speak your mind.¡±

    Mu Chen took a deep breath and said, ¡°Chen Fan, we want to travel with you. Do you mind?¡±

    They used to believe that their small party of five Qi Grandmasters would be rtively safe if they avoided going too deep into the northwest to hunt blood-sucking bandits.

    However, recent events had exposed the folly of their assumptions.

    Moments after arriving at the northwesternnds, they had fallen into a perilous situation. They now knew that the deeper they ventured, the stronger the blood-sucking bandits they would encounter.

    They wanted to make a huge harvest this time. Realizing the necessity of finding a formidable ally, they set their sights on Chen Fan.

    Earlier, they had witnessed his might. The first-level Yuanfu realm bandit leader hadn¡¯t stood a chance, failing to even make an attempt to escape.

    If they joined forces with Chen Fan, encountering powerful bandits wouldn''t be as daunting. Chen Fan could handle formidable foes while they took care of the weaklings.

    Chen Fan might not care about those ordinary blood-sucking bandits, but they were favorable targets for them.

    They could obtain a lot more contribution points if they followed Chen Fan.

    Not only that, following Chen Fan would guarantee their safety.

    Lu Yun and the others also looked at Chen Fan with hope.

    If Chen Fan were to reject them, then they could only return to the sect.

    After all, it was too dangerous for Qi Grandmasters toe to the northwest to kill the blood-sucking bandits. If they were not careful, they would be their next meal.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of offending Heaven¡¯s Alliance?¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Everyone treated him like a gue rat in the inner sect. So, why would they take the initiative to reach out to him?

    Mu Chen said, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid! No matter how tyrannical Heaven¡¯s Alliance is, they can¡¯t do whatever they please. We are traveling with you solely to exterminate more blood-sucking bandits to rue contribution points.

    ¡°We five are no descendants of prestigious ns. If we want to break through to the Yuanfu realm, we must rely on ourselves to obtain cultivation resources. Missing this opportunity might dy our breakthrough significantly. We can¡¯t let this opportunity go.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Lu Yun and the others nodded one after another.

    On the path of martial arts cultivation, wealth,panions, technique, andnd were the crucial factors. Their ordinary family backgrounds meant they had to fight for resources themselves, and the blood-sucking bandit extermination mission presented an excellent opportunity for them.

    Without ample resources, breaking through to the Yuanfu realm would be a challenge for them.

    ¡°Alright, then. I¡¯m fine with whatever.¡± Chen Fan, sensing their determination, epted their proposal. ¡°That¡¯s great.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others were pleased when Chen Fan agreed to their request.

    ......

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A blood-sucking bandit¡¯s head flew into the air, their sharp teeth in bits. A blood-red bead¡ªthe blood demon core¡ªflew out from his brain.

    The bandit was a first-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    In the frigid outskirts of the northwest region, under heavy snowfall, a formidable group of fifteen hundred blood-sucking bandits had recently piged a vige. Unfortunately for them, Chen Fan¡¯s group pursued them and handed them to death in pieces.

    With an expert like Chen Fan holding the lines, the group of bandits was quick to fall.

    In the northwesternnds, there were many gangs of blood-sucking bandits, forming a momentum that seemed to sweep the world.

    The group Chen Fan had wiped out in the ancient city was merely one of these gangs.

    After a night''s rest in the ancient city, the six had ventured out the following day in search of more blood-sucking bandits. Finally, several hundred miles away, they discovered the tracks of another group in a vige.

    ¡°Capture it, Capturing Dragon Controlling Crane!¡± [1]

    His tightly clenched fist unleashed primeval qi that pierced the skull of a blood-sucking bandit at the eighth level and extracted a blood demon core from his brain.

    The five of them then surrounded three Qi Grandmaster bandits andunched fierce attacks, slowly and steadily pushing them back.

    Chen Fan killed a first-level Yuanfu realm blood-sucking bandit and swooped down from the sky like an eagle preying on a rabbit. Grabbing at the air, he dealt with another first-level Yuanfu realm bandit.

    ¡°Speak, sinful beast. How many bandits in total are there in these northwesternnds? Who and where is their highest-ranked figure?¡± Instead of immediately killing the captive, Chen Fan tried to extract information through questioning.

    ¡°Hahahaha, if you kill me, Lord Chongtian will avenge me! All you little bastards have to die! You¡¯ll have to die! With your minuscule strength, you¡¯re no different from ants in front of Lord Chongtian!¡±

    This first-level Yuanfu realm bandit leader roared crazily, ¡°Just you wait. We¡¯re nurtured by the Blood Soul Pce and trained in the Blood Demon Cave. You people will be turned into blood sustenance sooner orter!¡±

    ¡°Blood Soul Pce? Blood Demon Cave?¡±

    This was the first time Chen Fan had heard of those two names.

    <i>Do all bandits belong to a sect? </i>thought Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die, you little bastard!¡±

    When Chen Fan was lost in thought, the captive bandit leader revolved his cultivation crazily. Fresh blood shot out from him, and it seemed he was about to explode.

    Reacting swiftly, Chen Fan waved his hands, conjuring arge qi shield that enveloped the bandit leader.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    An explosion ensued, causing the qi shield to tremble intensely. Blood sprayed everywhere, but the transparent shield held firm.

    ¡°The Blood Shadow Great Destruction Technique aims to bring down their enemy together with them. A first-level Yuanfu realm executing this technique would bring forth extremely great destructive power, yet it couldn¡¯t destroy Chen Fan¡¯s qi shield! Just how powerful is he?¡±

    Mu Chen and the others marveled at Chen Fan''s seemingly boundless strength, their sense of awe deepening with each interaction.

    1. Looks like a reference to Tang Jia San Shao¡¯s Soul Land series. ?

 Chapter 196 - Secret Rumors of Blood Heavenly Demon Sect

    <h4>Chapter 196 - Secret Rumors of Blood Heavenly Demon Sect</h4>

    Chen Fan found a blood-colored bead in his hand, shiny enough to reflect a person''s image and about the size of a baby''s fist.

    This gang of blood-sucking bandits was stronger than the group in the ancient city. They had more bandits and two leaders in the Yuanfu realm. One of them was even a peak first-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Haha, this feels so good.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others had surrounded three Qi Grandmasters and killed them. Excitedly, they held three blood demon cores, each approximately the size of an egg.

    ¡°Do you guys know about Blood Soul Pce and Blood Demon Cave?¡± Chen Fan looked at them and asked.

    Mu Chen replied, ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of the Blood Soul Pce, but I have heard about the Blood Demon Cave before.¡±

    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± Chen Fan said.

    Mu Chen nodded and said, ¡°The Blood Demon Cave is an organization of martial artists practicing demonic cultivation techniques, simr to the Spring Autumn Sect. Rumor has it that their leader''s cultivation is in the Divine Nascent realm, although I can''t confirm it.¡±

    Chen Fan''s gaze turned serious as he asked, "If the Blood Demon Cave is a demonic sect targeted by everyone, why haven''t they been eradicated?"

    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy.¡± Mu Chen chuckled and said, ¡°I get what you mean. Many sects once came together to exterminate them. Although they killed many demonic beings of Blood Demon Cave, the location of its headquarters remains unknown.

    ¡°Demonic cultivation techniques help practitioners make quick progress, as you know. They killed many demonic practitioners, but many more failed to resist the temptation and fell into the demonic path. Consequently, the Blood Demon Cave persists like resilient wild grass in the Great Chu Empire, sprouting back repeatedly."

    Chen Fan acknowledged this reality.

    In this world where strength dictated everything, the temptation of a quick path to bing an expert made many martial artists give in to their desires.

    This inherent human nature ensured that practitioners of demonic cultivation techniques would never vanishpletely.

    ¡°I see. With these bandits causing chaos in the northwesternnds, it''s likely the Blood Demon Cave has regained its strength,¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    Lu Yun suddenly said, ¡°I do know a little about Blood Soul Pce.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡±

    Chen Fan and Mu Chen, along with the others, turned their attention to Lu Yun.

    ¡°I once stumbled upon an ancient book that mentioned an enormous sect in the Tianwu Continent¡ªthe Blood Heavenly Demon Sect.¡±

    ¡°Blood Heavenly Demon Sect?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk.

    He had learned from Wei Buyu that the current Tianwu Continent had nine overlord-ss forces, with three ns and six sects. There wasn¡¯t a Blood Heavenly Demon Sect among those six sects.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you all know why we even have demonic beings. To summarize, an ancient demon king saw that humans were prospering and created a heaven tier cultivation technique¡ªthe Blood Emperor Demonic Scripture. It lured many into the evil path.

    ¡°The ancient book also said that the founder of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect practiced the Blood Emperor Demonic Scripture and experienced a rapid cultivation advancement. Ultimately, they established the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect, specializing in absorbing human blood for cultivation.

    ¡°As the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect grew stronger, posing a serious threat to righteous martial artists, various sects and forces united to wage war against them.

    ¡°After that battle, the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect fell apart and disappeared into the annals of history. Our books barely have any records, as if it had be a forbidden history.¡±

    ¡°How is this rted to the Blood Soul Pce?¡± Mu Chen asked.

    Lu Yun exined, ¡°During ancient times, the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect had ten pces under them. The Blood Soul Pce is one of them, also specializing in cultivating via absorbing human blood. Its practitioners transformed into beings neither human nor demon."

    ¡°You mean...¡±

    Chen Fan and the others were shocked inside. Mu Chen¡¯s eyes went wide as he said, ¡°The Blood Heavenly Demon Sect wasn''t entirely eradicated; instead, they concealed themselves, quietly regaining strength. They are revealing themselves to the world again?¡±

    The blood-sucking bandits of today were devastating the northwesternnds, killing countless people by draining them of blood, not even sparing babies.

    However, in ancient times, when the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect was still a dominating force with ten pces and millions of demonic beings under itsmand, the scale of horror and brutality must have been beyondprehension.

    If the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect hadn''t beenpletely eradicated and had, in fact, concealed themselves to regain strength over thousands of years, their reappearance could potentially bring great harm to the world once again.

    Lu Yun shrugged and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know about that. Perhaps the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect was exterminated, but some demonic remnants escaped by luck and hid themselves to build their strength secretly.

    ¡°Or perhaps some martial artists with impure minds obtained the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect¡¯s cultivation technique in that battle and secretly practiced it, even spreading it...

    ¡°Forget it. No need to think so much about it. Even if the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect is like a cockroach, it¡¯s not our ce to worry. The more powerful sects will handle them."

    ¡°You have a point,¡± said Mu Chen, nodding.

    Li He said, ¡°Now, do we rest for a while or continue our search? This group of blood-sucking bandits came from the Blood Demon Cave. They are sure to have a powerful leader, we...¡±

    Mu Chen and the others immediately looked toward Chen Fan.

    They now knew that the blood-sucking bandits in the northwesternnds originated from the Blood Demon Cave and likely had powerful leaders. Later, they coulde across third, fourth, or even fifth-level Yuanfu realm demonic beings.

    Earlier, that group¡¯s leader had said something about ¡°Lord Chongtian¡± avenging him before his death¡ªpossibly the leader of these bandits.

    ¡°If you guys are worried about your safety, you can return to the sect first, but I will keep searching for more blood-sucking bandits to kill,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    He was confident in his strength.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t even bring out thirty percent of his strength in the past two days. The strongest enemy he¡¯d encountered was only at a peak-stage, first-level Yuanfu realm expert. He could have killed his opponent with a single attack if he hadn¡¯t been trying not to stand out too much.

    As for that Lord Chongtian, he didn¡¯t put him to heart, either.

    If he encountered that person, even if he was no match for him, no one could stop him from escaping.

    Chen Fan nned to kill more bandits to earn more contribution points and buy one or two upper-profound tier martial skills at the Scripture Depository.

    An upper-profound tier martial art would cost one to two thousand contribution points each. He needed more points for them.

    ¡°Wealth can only be earned by taking risks. Since you¡¯re confident, Chen Fan, we¡¯ll continue following you,¡± said Mu Chen after thinking for a while, gritting his teeth.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. This is a rare opportunity. We must seize it!¡± Lu Yun and Wei Rufeng also nodded.

    Li He and the remaining party member, Liu Heshan, hesitated briefly. Eventually, they gritted their teeth and nodded, determined to stick with Chen Fan and continue their journey.

 Chapter 197 - Demonic Beingsâ€™ Base Camp

    <h4>Chapter 197 - Demonic Beings¡¯ Base Camp</h4>

    The group of six continued their journey, disappearing into the snowyndscape.

    Brimming with youthful vigor and high spirits, they joyfully traversed the northwesternnds to their heart''s content.

    Meanwhile, an enormous griffin beasty prone atop a mountain on the snowy ground. Several human figures dismounted from it, revealing themselves as a cadre of elite disciples led by Chu Tiange.

    "Senior Brother Chu," remarked a youth in blue at the second level standing beside Chu Tiange, "I heard that bastard Chen Fan has also made his way to the northwest. I wonder if we''lle across him."

    ¡°Hehe, he¡¯s a mere grasshopper. We¡¯ll just kill him if we happen upon him. We don''t want him stirring trouble in the inner sect,¡± scoffed a youth in purple also at the second level, his tone suggesting Chen Fan was an easy target.

    ¡°That little bastard dares to kill our Heaven¡¯s Alliance member. He even challenged Senior Brother Duan Jingtian arrogantly. Although Senior Brother Duan Jingtian warned us not to make a move on him, we¡¯ll just kill him in passing so that Senior Brother doesn¡¯t have to dirty his hands three yearster.¡±

    ¡°Hopefully, we¡¯ll run into him. The northwesternnds are vast and sparsely popted, so our chances of running into him aren¡¯t high. He¡¯s merely at the first level, so he surely won¡¯t dare to venture deep into thends. He will likely only fight at the fringe region to pick up some scraps.¡±

    These people chimed in one after another, their words condescending, disregarding Chen Fan.

    Suddenly, Chu Tiange said, ¡°It¡¯d be best if we ran into him. I¡¯ll chop off that little bastard Chen Fan¡¯s head and use it as a wine cup. But even if we don''t, there''ll be ample opportunities to deal with him. Our primary goal is Xue Chongtian. We''ll eliminate him, take his blood demon core, and with its energy, I''ll advance to the fifth level and be a core disciple.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Chu, I heard Xue Chongtian is a genius raised by the Blood Demon Cave. He is a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert,¡± said the youth in blue.

    Chu Tiange pursed his lips and said, ¡°He¡¯s indeed at the fourth level, but he relied on unorthodox and demonic methods to increase his cultivation. His foundation is weak. He won¡¯t be a match for me. I am sixty percent confident in killing him.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, since Senior Brother Chu put it that way, Xue Chongtian won''t escape this time!" The Heaven¡¯s Alliance elite disciplesughed.

    Chu Tiange waved and said, ¡°Be quiet for a bit, you guys. Let me pinpoint Xue Chongtian''s location."

    Immediately, the elite disciples shut their mouths. They stood at the side, waiting silently.

    Chu Tiange''s expression turned serious, and a light gleamed in his eyes. A sword light pierced through the void, scanning the distance.

    ¡°Hmm? I can already sense the aura of blood demons. Many blood-sucking bandits have gathered in the northwest. Xue Chongtian must be there. Let¡¯s go, don¡¯t let the other sects get them first.¡±

    Chu Tiange used his primeval force to sketch a map. A blood-red spot shed on the map, then exploded.

    The others were about to move out, but Chu Tiange raised his hand and said, ¡°Entering the blood demons'' main camp is dangerous. Despite you all being in the Yuanfu realm, your safety won''t be guaranteed. Act with utmost caution. I won''t have the spare energy to watch over you at that time."

    ¡°Understood!¡± The elite disciples hurriedly nodded.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go. The main camp has countless blood-sucking bandits. Kill as many as you want for contribution points. If you run into Chen Fan, kill him while you¡¯re at it. I¡¯ll go kill Xue Chongtian.¡±

    A streak of sword light suddenly appeared under Chu Tiange¡¯s feet. Then, it enveloped him and sped straight into the snowy clouds.

    ......

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan¡¯s group of six was resting in a manor.

    This manor was already covered in snow but was built luxuriously.

    The manor''s owner, apanied by numerous servants, maids, attendants, and soldiers, weed Chen Fan and hispanions respectfully.

    The outside of the manor was a mess. Hundreds of corpses belonging to blood-sucking bandits were strewn all over the ground.

    Chen Fan¡¯s party, searching for blood-sucking bandits in the northwesternnds to kill, had encountered a group about toy siege to this manor. Their swift action thwarted the siege, saving the hundreds within from bing bloodless, lifeless husks.

    The manor''s owner was an elderly Qi Grandmaster. Upon learning that Chen Fan''s party were inner sect disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect, he extended warm hospitality, offering tea and services.

    ¡°Manor owner, have you considered relocating? Blood-sucking bandits are terrorizing the northwest and would turn everyone in this manor into dry corpses sooner orter,¡± Chen Fan casually asked.

    ¡°Move elsewhere? Where would I move to? I have no rtives elsewhere and will have to help settle down such a big group of people.¡±

    The manor owner appeared to be on the verge of crying. ¡°This humble old man possesses significant wealth and a few spiritual herb mountains. I¡¯ll be left with nothing if I leave. I¡¯m willing to offer half my fortune, hoping that you, esteemed experts, will help safeguard this manor."

    ¡°We¡¯re disciples of Spring Autumn Sect. Maintaining justice and exterminating those on the path of evil is our responsibility. We won¡¯t ept your fortune,¡± Mu Chen said.

    ¡°Also, we¡¯re here to eradicate all the blood-sucking bandits to prevent them from bringing misfortune to the world. Manor owner, where are the blood-sucking bandits in this area? We¡¯ll eradicate them together and return peace to your home.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, thank you, as expected of disciples of a righteous sect," the manor''s inhabitants expressed their gratitude.

    A young man, seemingly the son of the manor owner, stepped forward. ¡°Experts, I heard a piece of news. The Lon Ancient Imperial City that is three thousand miles from here used to be the most prosperous in these northwesternnds, but blood-sucking bandits suddenly appeared and killed countless people in the city. Now, it¡¯s be their base camp. If you can eliminate this base camp, the entire northwest will be free of these bandits."

    ¡°Their base camp!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others jumped in fright at the news, the corners of their eyes twitching wildly.

    Being mere Qi Grandmasters, venturing to the base camp would be akin to risking their lives. In their estimation, even Chen Fan might not be strong enough for the camp.

    They had killed numerous blood-sucking bandits on their journey, so they knew that the leader of this group was someone named Xue Chongtian. He was a genius nurtured by the Blood Demon Cave¡ªa fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    Mu Chen said absent-mindedly, ¡°Aside from Lon Ancient Imperial City, are there other ces with blood-sucking bandits?¡±

    The manor owner¡¯s son shook his head and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know about other ces.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others felt disappointed.

    Chen Fan suddenly said, ¡°Draw me a map to Lon Ancient Imperial City.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others immediately stared wide-eyed and said, ¡°Chen Fan, you...¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°I have my ns.¡±

    On the other hand, the manor owner¡¯s son lit up excitedly and hurriedly said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll draw it right away.¡±

 Chapter 198 - Loulan Ancient Imperial City

    <h4>Chapter 198 - Lon Ancient Imperial City</h4>

    The manor owner''s son swiftlypleted the map to Lon Ancient Imperial City and handed it over to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯re really going there?¡± Mu Chen asked.

    Chen Fan read the map, looked up, and said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ll go take a look. Many disciples from various sects have gathered in the northwesternnds to eliminate these bandits. There are bound to be people with high cultivation among them. Although I won¡¯t raise any big waves with my cultivation level, I can certainly capitalize on the opportunity to hunt down more first-level Yuanfu realm blood demons.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others¡¯ eyes lit up, stirred by his words.

    The base camp of the blood demons was fraught with dangers and had many blood-sucking bandits with high cultivation levels. However, many people from various major sects hade here to eradicate the bandits. Surely, there will be third or even fourth-level Yuanfu realm experts among them.

    To obtain more contribution points, these people naturally wouldn¡¯t be satisfied with the smaller groups of blood-sucking bandits in the outskirts of the northwest region. They would also aim for the bandits¡¯ base camp.

    Considering the countless towns and cities stained with blood by the marauding bandits, the wealth they had amassed probablyy in Lon Ancient Imperial City. Would these experts ignore it?

    Consequently, shes between blood demon experts like Xue Chongtian and sect representatives were inevitable. They could fight at the fringe area and pick up some easy killings. It didn¡¯t seem too dangerous.

    ¡°Alright, since that is the case, I¡¯ll also go to Lon Ancient Imperial City to check things out!¡± said Mu Chen, his gaze narrowing.

    Surviving this campaign could potentially yield a wealth of contribution points for Mu Chen. he could exchange them for resources and use them to advance to the Yuanfu realm.

    ¡°I¡¯m going too!¡±

    ¡°I want toe too!¡±

    Lu Yun, Li He, and the others also realized this key point and immediately expressed their willingness to go.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t try to stop them.

    Life and death were fated. He would help his fellow disciples in dangerous situations when possible, but he couldn''t be held responsible if circumstances prevented him from doing so.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, we¡¯ll set off right away to Lon Ancient Imperial City. Given the snowy weather, it¡¯ll take us at least a day to cover the three-thousand-mile journey. It''s still morning, so we should be close to the ancient city by evening. The cover of the night and the heavy snowfall will hide us from the bandits.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up.

    Mu Chen and the others naturally followed his lead.

    The group donned snow-white clothing and thick fur cloaks made from pr bear fur provided by the manor owner.

    These cloaks kept them warm and blended seamlessly with the snowy surroundings, concealing their presence effectively. Even ordinary individuals could endure a night in these snowynds without sumbing to the cold when wrapped in pr bear fur.

    With the pr bear fur cloak, they could also save on using their primeval qi to ward off the cold.

    Six white silhouettes moved in the snow. With a few jumps, they sped through thends.

    After reaching the Qi Grandmaster realm, one was capable of not leaving any footsteps in the snow. They could move as lightly as a swallow, not leaving any traces.

    They followed the map; sure enough, the stench of blood in the cold air assaulted their noses by the evening.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan extended his hand into the air, catching a snowke that revealed a subtle red tint¡ªa manifestation of a blood-colored primeval force.

    ¡°What a strong bloody aura. How many have they killed for the blood qi to saturate the skies and even taint the snowkes!!¡±

    An icy cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    These evil beings truly deserved to die. Their ruthless pursuit of strength led them tomit atrocities, annihting cities and viges without a second thought.

    ording to the manor owner''s son, Lon Ancient Imperial City was a thriving metropolis with a poption of tens of millions¡ªperhaps even a hundred million, including numerous martial artists. However, they had all fallen prey to the blood-sucking bandits.

    The snow, now tainted with blood, bore witness to the city''s massacre.

    The harsh climate of the northwestern region and its sparse poption resulted in a decline in the martial arts path. Martial ns settled here were weaker, with fewer experts than other regions.

    The manor owner¡¯s son had said that the strongest in Lon Ancient Imperial City was a third-level Yuanfu realm expert. Naturally, they were no match for Xue Chongtian.

    ¡°This ancient city ahead should be the imperial city of the former Lon Ancient Kingdom.¡±

    Mu Chen pointed to the distance. There, an imposing city stood, surrounded by many smaller cities.

    However, it appeared ruined and decayed, seemingly having gone through a baptism from the mes of war.

    However, it was fortunate that the former splendor and prosperity of the Lon Ancient Imperial City could still be seen from the tall city walls, the huge stone pirs, and the domed temples.

    Despite the current destion, nothing could change the fact that Lon Ancient Imperial City used to be a huge city in these northwesternnds with a poption of tens of millions, close to a hundred million.

    However, the entire ancient city was eerily tranquil now, as if not one breathing creature lived here.

    It stood as a ghost town, a grim testament to the blood-sucking bandits who had massacred its inhabitants and turned it into their base camp.

    Crawling through the snow, Chen Fan and hispanions observed squads of blood-sucking bandits patrolling the surroundings. The surrounding air pulsated with blood qi while blood clouds loomed above their heads.

    These bandits all wore crimson garbs, which were eye-catching in these snowynds.

    They moved with agility, seemingly impervious to the freezing cold due to their inherent Yin constitutions.

    ording to rumors, after practicing the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique and absorbingrge amounts of blood, the practitioners would be blood demons with great strength and cruel personalities, specializing in absorbing the fresh blood of their victims.

    ¡°There are so many blood-sucking bandits!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyesight was the sharpest, looking into the distance.

    He could see close to ten thousand Qi Grandmasters patrolling the peripheral small andrge cities. Qi Grandmasters were everywhere; those with first-level Yuanfu realm cultivation were asmon as dogs, and second-level Yuanfu realm weren¡¯t few, either.

    The Lon Ancient Imperial City, designed in concentric circles with buildings forming nearly a thousandyers toward the center, reflected its past prosperity.

    If there were so many blood-sucking bandits on the periphery alone, one could only imagine what the depths of Lon Ancient Imperial City held.

    ¡°What do we do now?¡±

    Mu Chen and the others crept on the snowy ground, suppressing their auras to the limit, not daring to breathe heavily.

    They knew they¡¯d quickly be met with death if they were to rm these blood-sucking bandits. There were simply too many experts here.

    ¡°No hurries. The various major sects of the empire must have mobilized much manpower. Take our Spring Autumn Sect, for example. Surely, the six of us aren¡¯t the only ones to havee. This Lon Ancient Imperial City is bound to be the ce where the forces sh. I¡¯m sure it won¡¯t only be the few of us who found our way here.

    ¡°Those people are most likely waiting in the dark and will charge into the ancient city once more people gather. So, let¡¯s wait and see.¡±

    As soon as Chen Fan finished speaking, long whistling sounds suddenly came from all directions.

 Chapter 199 - Sneaking In

    <h4>Chapter 199 - Sneaking In</h4>

    Following the resounding long whistles echoing from every direction, some human silhouettes appeared on the vast snowynds and rushed forth.

    The blood-sucking bandits, alerted by the noises, yelled out. Immediately, the fully equipped blood-sucking bandits brandished their sharp weapons and robust bows.

    ¡°Look, that¡¯s our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s disciples! Hmm? They¡¯re members of the Tianxia Society!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others, no longer afraid, rose to their feet on the snowy ground. They scanned the surroundings, quickly spotting human silhouettes appearing from all directions, sweeping toward Lon Ancient Imperial City.

    ¡°The people over there are disciples from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect. What powerful sword intent!¡±

    ¡°Look over there. Disciples of the Divine Light Sect. Their light-attributed cultivation techniques make the light as sharp as a de, highly lethal.¡±

    ¡°And there, Silvermoon Sect disciples. They practice extraordinary cultivation techniques, drawing on the moon''s essence to cultivate at a remarkable speed.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Mu Chen and the others were well-informed, recognizing the sects based on clothing and describing their characteristics sinctly.

    Whether the disciples from the various sects had coordinated beforehand remained unknown. Nevertheless, they revealed themselves simultaneously, surging forward.

    Thirty-six first-level Yuanfu realm disciples led the charge, channeling their cultivation to fly into the midst of the blood-sucking bandits.

    Immediate chaos ensued as the disciples swiftly took down the blood-sucking bandits, causing them to fall one after another.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a huge crimson palm seal flew down from the city wall, enveloping the area where the thirty-six first-level Yuanfu realm disciples stood.

    The air exploded as the force descended, threatening to smash them to a mere pulp.

    At that crucial moment, a devastating sword light flew out from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciples. It sliced through space, obliterating the crimson palm seal.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    The disciples of the various sects yelled furiously and charged the blood-sucking bandits. Cultivations erupted, and the entire area vibrated with explosive force. Explosions boomed non-stop.

    ¡°Everyone, these evildoers from the Blood Demon Cave practice demonic cultivation. They indiscriminately kill innocents and have brought cmity to thesends. Today, our sects stand united. Let''s join forces and eliminate these evildoers, restoring peace to thesends!¡±

    A Divine Light Sect disciple, radiating holy light, hovered mid-air as he delivered the resounding message. The response was immediate.

    ¡°Rightfully so!¡±

    ¡°Kill! Kill all these scumbags!¡±

    ¡°Together, we shall storm the imperial city. The true threats lie within. Leave none alive!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Immediately, disciples with powerful auras came out from all directions.

    ¡°These people... are so strong!¡±

    Mu Chen and the others saw the various sects¡¯ elite disciples making their entrance. Their eyes flickered, sighing in awe.

    Chen Fan nced over, noticing several experts at the third level, like that Divine Light Sect disciple and the Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple.

    <i>Boom boom!</i>

    As these experts revealed themselves, within Lon Ancient Imperial City, about a dozen blood pirs soared into the sky. A dense bloody qi emanated from them, staining the air a crimson hue.

    Figures d in crimson robes floated up, surrounded by rippling blood qi that seemed alive, sending shivers down onlookers'' spines.

    These people were all in the second or third level of the Yuanfu realm. Their auras were linked, creating an oppressive atmosphere that impeded the wild, gusty wind.

    ¡°Haha, you people want to eradicate us with just you? What wishful thinking!¡±

    ¡°Keke, that¡¯s not bad. Elite disciples of your sects, I presume. Your fresh blood will be even sweeter. I will enjoy it!¡±

    ¡°Ah, delicious blood sustenance. You''ve willinglye to us. Later, I''ll relish your fresh blood while listening to your melodious screams. You will feel the pain as I drain your blood!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    These Yuanfu realm blood-sucking bandits all looked ferocious. Their eyes were beaming, showing no signs of fear.

    ¡°You evildoing clowns, die!¡±

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect¡¯s third-level Yuanfu realm expert¡¯s eyes turned cold, and he shed with his sword. Sword light shot out, tearing through everything and reaching one of the blood-sucking bandits.

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s too weak. Break!¡±

    That blood-sucking bandit was also at the third level, so he justughed. The wiggling blood qi around him suddenly transformed into a crimson sledgehammer. It struck out violently; with a bang, the sword light shattered.

    ¡°Everyone, attack! y these demonic beings, neither human nor ghost!¡±

    He blurred as he rushed out, wielding a sword. Sword qi swept out around him, tearing through everything. Simultaneously, others joined the fray.

    In mid-air, dazzling collisions urred, resulting in explosions that looked like fireworks disys.

    ¡°Come on, we¡¯re killing our way in too!¡±

    Mu Chen and hispanions, fueled by the intense scene, rushed toward the weaker blood-sucking bandits.

    They were right in choosing to make this trip here. Dealing with ordinary ones was their domain, leaving the experts to the experts.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t stop them, either. Observing the chaos, he stood still, his eyes lighting up at the opportunity.

    In the midst of the turmoil, he could slip inside and reim the treasures these blood-sucking bandits had plundered¡ªa substantial haul, no doubt.

    Even if he didn¡¯t have much use for them, he could bring it back to his n. Without hesitation, he dashed toward Lon Ancient Imperial City.

    He used his cultivation at full strength, so even fourth-level Yuanfu realm experts could barely catch a glimpse of him before he vanished. It was like he was teleporting.

    He was several thousand steps away from his starting point in a breath''s time. He ascended the city wall with a few more flickers, towering a hundred people tall.

    A mysterious force killed one blood-sucking bandit after another on the wall. Their blood demon cores disappeared just as mysteriously.

    Meanwhile, the whistling noises from all directions persisted, with more and more people converging on the scene.

    Chen Fan wasted no time and swiftly moved toward the heart of the city.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Chen Fan infiltrated Lon Ancient Imperial City. As he surveyed the distance, he saw tall buildings standing inyers connected by wide streets.

    The blood-sucking bandit army upied the streets, densely packed together. They were gathering urgently, their demonic and blood qi rising to the sky.

    Bloodstains were everywhere on the ground. Chen Fan could see dry corpses swaying in the wind in some tall buildings in the city.

    The entire Lon Ancient Imperial City had be a ghost city.

    The bandits had massacred all the city¡¯s inhabitants to use their blood to cultivate the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique.

    Due to the city''s vastness, the blood-sucking bandits couldn''t upy every inch. Unnoticed, Chen Fan flitted between tall buildings inconspicuously.

    Given his cultivation, a p of the Wings of Rain Dragon would bring him a thousand steps away.

    If anyone happened to catch a glimpse of him for a moment, he would already have appeared on another tall building in the next.

 Chapter 200 - Defeated with One Spear

    <h4>Chapter 200 - Defeated with One Spear</h4>

    Chen Fan moved at an incredible speed, resembling a ghostly shadow flickering among the tall buildings of the Lon Ancient Imperial City. Even someone with a high cultivation would think they were seeing things.

    The city¡¯s towering buildings were either crafted from stone or y-based ceramic, providing exceptional durability.

    Some buildings and towers had even been built with molten iron mixed with all kinds of strange metals, giving them a stately and sacred appearance.

    Heavy snow fell from the sky, dressing these tall buildings in a coat of silver.

    Cloaked in pr bear fur, Chen Fan blended seamlessly with the snow, making it difficult for anyone to notice him.

    He was concealing his aura, so even experts at the third level couldn¡¯t sense him. As he moved, it seemed like he had transformed into snow, quickly infiltrating the ancient city.

    The ancient city was very huge. The deeper he went, the fewer blood-sucking bandits there were, but every one of them was an elite.

    Eventually, Chen Fan discovered magnificent buildings with blood pools in the heart of the ancient city. Fresh blood churned within, and a Qi Grandmaster bandit sat beside each pool, absorbing the potent blood qi.

    Wisps of crimson qi drifted from the blood pool and entered these blood sucking bandits, making theyer of blood qi around even richer and strengthening their auras.

    These Qi Grandmaster bandits were using the energy of the blood pool as support to try breaking through to the Yuanfu realm.

    However, none of these people discovered Chen Fan.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    He silentlynded on a building that was nine stories high.

    He could tell that this building was originally a restaurant, built luxuriously. The pirs were iron, with their exterior wrapped in gold foil, glimmering with a golden light and giving off an air of nobility.

    However, they were now covered in blood stains. Arge, deep pit brimming with boiling fresh blood was in the middle of the tall building.

    Within the pit stood a thirty-foot radius fresh blood altar, where a blood-sucking bandit cultivated. Every time he breathed, the blood in the pool transformed into crimson runes that the bandit absorbed.

    Strands of solidified blood resembling steel needles and fur grew on the bandit''s face, body, and arms, making him look like a demonic, red-furred jiangshi.

    This bandit¡¯s cultivation was exceptionally powerful¡ªthe peak of the third level.

    His aura was currently rising and falling irregrly. Chen Fan even sensed that the surging primeval force inside the bandit was boiling madly.

    This bandit was on the edge of breaking through and was about to advance to the fourth level.

    Chen Fan was sure that this blood-sucking bandit was a core figure, even if he wasn¡¯t Xue Chongtian himself.

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    Just as Chen Fan silentlynded on the roof, the blood-sucking bandit, with red hair growing all over him, suddenly opened his eyes and shot out a streak of bloody light.

    His voice was fierce and filled with murderous qi.

    As he exited the blood pool, the churning blood simultaneously rose into the air with a ssh and condensed into a Blood Shadow Divine Whip. Swinging his arm, the bandit unleashed the whip, creating an explosive burst in the air.

    Chen Fan had previously experienced the might of this Blood Shadow Divine Whip during his encounter with Sir Blood Shirt in the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    This blood-sucking bandit in front of him was ten¡ªno, twenty times stronger than Sir Blood Shirt. Ash from him could make a mountain burst apart.

    The Blood Shadow Divine Whip, resembling a blood dragon or snake, lunged toward Chen Fan with precision. Its whistling noise cut through the air sharply.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan raised his palm, summoning a gigantic qi shield that enveloped the entire building, muffling the explosive sound.

    Normally, it would take thebined efforts of around a dozen second-level Yuanfu realm experts to iste such a tall structure.

    Chen Fan astonishingly achieved this feat alone, leaving the blood-sucking bandit in shock.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    His Blood Shadow Divine Whip struck Chen Fan¡¯s side and was shattered by the protective primeval force shield around him.

    ¡°Who are you?!¡± yelled the bandit.

    Manipting his crimson primeval force, he floated in the air, swiftly reaching the roof to confront Chen Fan, who was cloaked in pr bear fur.

    ¡°Judging by your extraordinary cultivation, it¡¯s obvious you¡¯re a core figure of this group. You must know all the secrets of Lon Ancient Imperial City. Speak; I¡¯m giving you a chance. Tell me where you¡¯ve kept all the plundered treasures in Lon Ancient Imperial City.¡±

    Chen Fan stared at this blood-sucking bandit.

    Lon Ancient Imperial City was huge and full of massive buildings that blocked the horizon. No one could possibly find out where the treasures were hidden.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t dare to go searching too openly, either. He was well aware that a powerful figure like Xue Chongtian was around.

    His current objective was to capture a core blood-sucking bandit and force the location of the hidden treasures out of them, then stealthily sneak in and plunder all the treasures, making a fortune.

    ¡°Who are you?¡±

    The red-haired bandit looked coldly at Chen Fan, a light flickering in his eyes.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about that first. Speak, where are the treasures hidden?¡± Chen Fan asked again.

    ¡°We transported it back to Blood Demon Cave long ago. Go find it at the Blood Demon Cave if you want it.¡±

    The red-haired, blood-sucking banditughed out loud before suddenly unleashing a palm strike. A big palm seal shot out, threatening to suppress and kill Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s aura surged and made the blood-colored palm seal disintegrate.

    ¡°Looks like you want to do things the hard way. Since you won''t cooperate when I''m asking politely, I''ll have to capture you and employ various methods to extract the information. Do you take me for a fool? Could you sustain such a massive bandit army in this ancient city without the treasures?¡±

    Chen Fan made his move as soon as he finished speaking. He promptly grabbed at the air, condensing the Heaven Piercing Spear immediately.

    The spear stabbed out at the air, like a grim reaper descending onto the world to harvest lives.

    ¡°Blood Shadow Divine Shield!¡±

    The blood-sucking bandit¡¯s cultivation erupted. The boiling blood qi around him stirred and transformed into a shield with crimson runes, flickering and condensing into a blood-colored ghost head. The ghost head opened its mouth and shot an extremely corrosive, blood-colored me.

    s, Chen Fan¡¯s Heaven Piercing Spear pierced through this Blood Shadow Divine Shield like lightning. It even destroyed the red-haired, blood-sucking bandit¡¯s protective primeval force and picked him off the ground.

    Then, Chen Fan condensed six arms around him. The primeval force arms caught the red-haired bandit in mid-air and lifted him.

    With a single move, this peak-stage, third-level Yuanfu realm bandit was heavily injured and captured.

 Chapter 201 - The Treasuresâ€™ Location

    <h4>Chapter 201 - The Treasures¡¯ Location</h4>

    ¡°You should speak now.¡±

    Chen Fan injected a strand of primeval force into the red-haired, blood-sucking bandit. Like an untamed horse, it rampaged inside the bandit, twisting and ripping his meridians.

    ¡°Ah...¡±

    The red-haired, blood-sucking bandit writhed and screamed in pain. His red hair gradually vanished, revealing the ghastly pale face of a middle-aged man devoid of blood. He looked like a dead man.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation technique was simply divine. His primeval force cultivated using it was iparably overbearing, and due to the lightning strike, it also contained the powers of lightning.

    The lightning-infused force was a formidable counter to the evil qi cultivated by the middle-aged man practicing the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique.

    Faced with Chen Fan''s qi, the man''s primeval force recoiled, repeatedly beaten back and suppressed in his dantian. Chen Fan could cripple his cultivation anytime now.

    ¡°I¡¯ll talk, I¡¯ll talk...¡±

    The blood-sucking bandit, fearing death, promptly surrendered and admitted defeat, disclosing the location of the hidden treasures.

    ¡°It¡¯s at the very center of the ancient city. Three hundred feet deep underground, a hidden tunnel leads to the stash where we''ve stored all the looted treasures from the northwesternnds,¡± said the bandit.

    Chen Fan asked him for more details, including the deployment of the troops in the entire Lon Ancient Imperial City, their experts, and the traps.

    An incense stick¡¯s timeter, the blood-sucking bandit had told him everything about the hidden treasure. So, Chen Fan killed the bandit and took his blood demon core, about the size of an adult¡¯s fist.

    The blood demon core exhibited vibrant colors, adorned with countless crimson runes that flowed and flickered, emitting pulses of an evil aura. Inside it, the purest vitality essence and primeval force were stored.

    This kind of blood demon core was much more poisonous than ordinary demon beasts¡¯ demon cores.

    If martial artists used them for cultivation, they would be infected with its blood poison. They would have to absorb blood every day. Otherwise, the poison would make them go numb and beg for death.

    This drawback was inherent in demonic cultivation techniques like the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique.

    Despite the rapid cultivation gains offered by such techniques, they came with substantial ws and drawbacks. Still, many people couldn¡¯t resist the temptation and flocked to it.

    ¡°A blood demon core from a third-level Yuanfu realm expert is worth two hundred contribution points. Sadly, I can''t submit it; it would undoubtedly attract attention from those with nefarious intentions.¡±

    He carefully stowed the blood demon core in his storage ring, recognizing the potential repercussions if he presented it to the sect.

    After all, handing it over would mean that someone at the first level¡ªsecond, if he exposed his cultivation¡ªof the Yuanfu realm had killed someone at the third level. That would cause quite amotion. Such attention could be detrimental, especially if word reached Duan Jingtian.

    Nheless, Chen Fan could just use the blood demon core to fuel his cultivation.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace was capable of refining all things. Despite the blood demon core¡¯s extremely poisonous nature, the furnace¡¯s refinement would turn it into the purest vitality essence that would only increase his cultivation.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    Chen Fan jumped between the tall buildings again, raising his speed to the limit.

    Soon, he saw the massive imperial city standing at the center of the Lon Ancient Imperial City.

    This imperial city dwarfed Xuanyang City by tenfold, serving as the stronghold of the Lon Ancient Kingdom. Even the roof tiles were opulent¡ªgilded and zed, radiating a timeless splendor that illuminated the surroundings.

    When he got close to the imperial city, Chen Fan immediately sensed a powerful force lying dormant in its depths.

    This powerful force was like an ancient beast, exuding boundless strength that permeated the air, even influencing the clouds in the sky.

    He could vaguely see a blood pir rushing into the sky, connecting heaven and earth.

    ¡°That person inside should be Xue Chongtian! Fourth level. Powerful indeed!¡±

    Chen Fan observed with narrowed eyes, recalling information gleaned from the red-haired, blood-sucking bandit.

    Xue Chongtian was the leader of this group of blood-sucking bandits and one of the geniuses raised by Blood Demon Cave. Being at the fourth level, he wasparable to Chu Tiange.

    If Chen Fan¡¯s Myriad Elephants Divine Art hadn¡¯t advanced to the eighthyer and he didn¡¯t have the second illusory primeval vessel, he might not have been a match for either Xue Chongtian or Chu Tiange.

    However, he wasn¡¯t afraid in the slightest now.

    He was no weaker than the two if he brought out his full strength.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t bother with him for now. I¡¯ll search the underground tunnel for the treasures before doing anything else.¡±

    Stealthily descending into a corner of the imperial city, he crouched in a corner, his silhouette blending seamlessly into the snowyndscape. In the cover of night, he remained unseen by anyone, ensuring his movements remained undetected.

    He could faintly hear the sounds of shouting and killing outside. Many blood-sucking bandit experts were outside, so there were almost no bandits inside the city.

    Chen Fan stealthily made his way to a moat. Despite the freezing cold, the moat¡¯s water hadn¡¯t frozen. It was still swaying endlessly, the sshing noises of flowing water resounding ceaselessly.

    The red-haired bandit had said that a concealed waterway existed beneath the moat, linking to the underground center of the imperial city.

    Abyrinth of passages sprawled beneath the imperial city, akin to a maze. It housed the treasures the blood-sucking bandits had plundered across the northwesternnds.

    Chen Fan made his move, sinking into the moat silently without creating a single ripple.

    The moat was extremely deep. It was dark, and he couldn¡¯t see the bottom. Chen Fan could faintly see plenty of fish swimming around, but these fish all had sharp teeth and crimson eyes. They were man-eating demonic fish.

    Protected by ayer of primeval force, Chen Fan effortlessly repelled the approaching demonic fish, turning them into blood mist that dispersed into the water. Eventually, he reached the riverbed, finding it impably clean without a trace of silt.

    Chen Fan sent out a strand of primeval force. He discovered that the bottom of the river was cast with gold. It was tough. Obviously, back when the Lon Ancient Kingdom was constructing the moat, they had put a lot of effort into it.

    Chen Fan¡¯s divine sense swept through the waters, searching for the entrance to the underground passage.

    Afterward, his figure shot out, arriving at a certain ce in the river.

    With a palm thrust, he created a massive hole in the riverbed, revealing a tightly sealed iron gate.

    The iron gate opened, and the river water gushed in wildly.

    Chen Fan followed the current and entered it.

    <i>Kachi! Kachi!</i>

    Suddenly, a bone-numbing noise resounded in the secret passage.

    Only then did Chen Fan see this secret passage was full of des, like a meat grinder.

    The river water crashed violently, and the des started spinning. The des were sharp and cold, flickering with a chilling light. Anyone would cower at the sight.

    These meat-grinding des were made from a special metalparable to Tier-1 treasures. Under these des, even first or second-level Yuanfu realm experts would be turned into minced meat.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s flesh was iparably tough. Sparks immediately flew when these meat-grinding des touched him, producing nging noises. The des snapped, turning into scrap metal.

 Chapter 202 - A Sea of Treasures

    <h4>Chapter 202 - A Sea of Treasures</h4>

    ¡°Luckily, my flesh now rivals ordinary Grade-2 treasures after reaching the eighthyer. Otherwise, those des would have turned me into minced meat.¡±

    He gazed at the nearly hundred sharp des, each several meters long, and felt momentarily speechless. Chen Fan had charged right through, turning all these meat-grinding des into scrap metal.

    Soon, he entered another secret passage. The raging river water from the moat cascaded into a canal, showcasing the masterful design of the mechanisms that left him in awe. The wisdom of the people of the Lon Ancient Kingdom was truly admirable.

    Chen Fan stepped into this secret passage and focused his eyes. He knew the meat-grinding de mechanism was only an appetizer.

    A kingdom''s treasury wouldn''t have only one mechanism; there had to be more challenges ahead.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t dare to drop his guard, either.

    His protective primeval force turned into a qi shield, enveloping him. Determining the direction, he swiftly navigated the secret passage.

    As expected, he encountered numerous challenges along the way¡ªhidden weapons, de disks, various poisonous gases, fiery mes¡ªyet none posed a threat to him.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Suddenly, a huge iron block weighing several tons fell, trying to tten Chen Fan into a pancake.

    Chen Fan quickly reacted. His qi erupted and ttened the block instead.

    Subsequently, small pitch-ck holes materialized on the wall, emitting a series of swooshing sounds.

    Countless arrows shot out from these openings, specifically designed to prate martial artists'' protective primeval qi and force.

    Coated with lethal poison, these arrows promised death and the fact that one would look like a porcupine afterward.

    However, Chen Fan was like an unparalleled expert. As these arrows reached him, his primeval force turned them into powder.

    Simultaneously, a sharp de emerged from the ground, trying to cleave him in half.

    However, Chen Fan stomped his foot, and his primeval force rushed out. The sword also became scrap metal. He walked over it like he was still walking on t earth.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    Following the arrow and de arrays, rotating de disks suddenly manifested on the walls, buzzing as they approached Chen Fan with the intent to slice and dice him.

    Undeterred, Chen Fan let the disks make contact, and they broke with cracking and snapping noises. Even the mechanism itself became stuck.

    The numerous traps proved futile against Chen Fan, utterly failing to harm him.

    asionally, he would find a passage blocked off with metallic walls. He would deal with them with a punch. Regardless of their thickness, his punch would leave a gaping hole behind.

    The underground passage was filled with weaponized traps, but Chen Fan was impervious to such weapons. Like the king of destruction, he ruined all the powerful mechanisms and turned them into scraps.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan punched through another steel door that weighed a hundred thousand jin. Immediately, lots of poisonous liquid came pouring out, but it all bounced back.

    Stepping through the door, Chen Fan saw a huge secret room.

    Inside this secret room, chests brimming with primeval stones and elixirs adorned the ground, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a grotto heaven. The air within wasn''t mere oxygen but pure primeval qi.

    ¡°So many Qi Gathering Pills, heavens, there¡¯s like a hundred million of them! Not even the prestigious ns could bring out such an amount!¡± Chen Fan looked at the chests of Qi Gathering Pills emanating waves of the elixir¡¯s fragrance, sighing in awe.

    Qi Gathering Pills could help martial artists below the seventh level of the Qigong realm to increase their cultivation quickly.

    Many martial ns stockpiled significant quantities of these pills, as they were often used to calcte the sries of their private troops.

    Piles of primeval stones resembling a mountain were also present, numbering over ten million.

    ¡°Good. Very good. With this, our n¡¯s strength and foundation will rise to the next level!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone brightly.

    The Chen n was developing from the Grade-3 Xuanyang City to the Grade-2 Watermoon City. So, they need more top-tier experts within the n.

    They had confiscated the fortunes of the Tan, Liu, and Lin martial ns. However, as the Chen n grew, their private troops also increased. The increasing number necessitated a considerable expenditure of Qi Gathering Pills, primeval stones, and other essential items.

    The n needed to providerge amounts of cultivation resources to allow the younger generation to raise their cultivation levels faster.

    In that case, the seemingly abundant treasury of the Chen n was, in fact, stretched very thin.

    ¡°Hehe, all this is mine!¡±

    Chen Fan acted unabashedly.

    With a sweeping gesture, Chen Fan swiftly stored chest after chest of Qi Gathering Pills and primeval stones in his storage ring until its capacity was exhausted.

    However, Chen Fan had killed many Yuanfu realm experts and had plenty of storage rings. Therefore, he didn¡¯tck storage space.

    ¡°Oh boy, there are so many Realm Breaking Pills, too.¡±

    Beckoning with his palm, a gourd as tall as a baby flew into Chen Fan¡¯s hand. He opened it, and a faint fragrance immediately assaulted his nose. The twenty pills in the gourd were Realm Breaking Pills.

    He still remembered attending an auction in the World''s End Pavilion. The attendees had fought tooth and nail for a single Realm Breaking Pill; some had even made threatening remarks.

    ¡°Good. With these Realm Breaking Pills, we can aid our Qi Grandmasters in advancing to the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    Chen Fan was overjoyed. He kept the gourd of Realm Breaking Pills in a storage ring.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    A few more gourds flew to him. Nine Revolution Golden Pills shone with golden light inside, threatening to blind Chen Fan.

    The Nine Revolution Golden Pills could enlighten martial artists by raising their martial talent. They were more valuable than Realm Breaking Pills.

    These few gourdsbined had about a hundred Nine Revolution Golden Pills. Chen Fan pondered whether they were plundered from across the northwesternnds or from the Lon Ancient Kingdom alone¡ªregardless, they now belonged to him.

    The Chen n had many young martial artists¡ªthe foundation of the n¡¯s future¡ªso they could put these pills to good use. The n could now produce many martial geniuses in a short period.

    Chen Fan looted as he walked around. All kinds of treasures and elixirs went into his storage rings.

    Soon, he discovered a jade box with three emerald green pills. Chen Fan couldn''t discern theirposition, but the rich, delicate fragrance surpassed even that of the Nine Revolution Golden Pill. It seemed to be a rare elixir.

    Further exploration revealed a variety of pills¡ªRecovery Pills, Antidote Pills, Force Gathering Pills, and more.

    Chen Fan seized them all, recognizing their potential value for the n, if not for himself.

    There were also quite a few top-grade Recovery Pills. He needed to be prepared, just in case.

    Although his recovery speed was freakishly fast, it didn¡¯t hurt to be prepared. It could prove to be extremely useful during crucial moments.

    As the looting continued, he filled five storage rings, leaving Chen Fan slightly numb.

 Chapter 203 - Battling Xue Chongtian

    <h4>Chapter 203 - Battling Xue Chongtian</h4>

    The secret room was seemingly an inexhaustible source of valuable items, so Chen Fan ultimately had to choose the best out of them to loot.

    Opting for higher-quality treasures, he dismissed the lower-grade spiritual herbs, deeming them unworthy of upying precious space.

    ¡°There are many demon beast cores here,¡± remarked Chen Fan as he looted them promptly.

    Most of them were from Tier-2, first-level demon beasts, and few were from second- and third-level beasts of the same tier.

    Demon cores contained substantial vitality essence, suitable for refining with the Heaven Seizing Furnace. He could even inject the refined energy into others and help them increase their cultivation, simr to martial infusion.

    The Chen n had too few Qi Grandmasters and Yuanfu realm experts. Although they had arge supply of resources now, it was impossible to produce a batch of experts shortly.

    Upon returning to the n, Chen Fan decided to perform martial infusion on seventh and eighth-level Qigong realm nsmen. That could increase the number of Qi Grandmaster and Yuanfu realm experts in his n.

    ¡°Hmm? What¡¯s this?¡±

    Chen Fan noticed a palm-sized sheepskin scroll in a corner of the secret room.

    He picked up the sheepskin scroll; after closer inspection, he realized it was an iplete map. It was a piece of aplete map.

    Unable to discern anything from the remnant piece of a map, Chen Fan shrugged and nonchntly stowed it in his storage ring.

    Next, Chen Fan found a mask on the wall and took it down.

    Upon looking at it, he was surprised to find that this mask was a treasure¡ªit could conceal and alter a martial artist¡¯s aura.

    Moreover, its effects weren¡¯t the same as restraining one¡¯s aura. When worn, the mask prevented others from studying the wearer''s aura, making identification impossible without removing the mask. Although not exceptionally valuable, Chen Fan saw its potential for convenience in various situations.

    ¡°You thief, how dare you steal the treasures I¡¯ve painstakingly collected. Die!¡±

    When Chen Fan put on the mask, a cold voice filled with killing intent suddenly rang out from above and outside the secret room.

    Then, the entire secret room started to shake and rumble like an earthquake.

    A strand of primeval force simultaneously descended, prating theyers of soil and walls, directly heading for Chen Fan.

    This force was imposing like a mountain and boundless like the sea. Chen Fan felt enormous pressure, like Mt Tai was pressing down on him.

    ¡°Xue Chongtian!¡±

    Chen Fan knew that Xue Chongtian had discovered him. Separated by three hundred feet of soil, he sent down a powerful st of primeval force, attacking through space to kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid, however.

    He harrumphed coldly and raised his hand, throwing out a palm strike, shattering the descending primeval force.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Xue Chongtian¡¯s cry of surprise rang out. He didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to crumble his attack in one move.

    After all, that primeval force strand was strong enough to bring even experts at the second level to their knees.

    Xue Chongtian''s robust cultivation became evident as he dered, ¡°You thief, it¡¯s no wonder you dared to brave the danger ande steal my treasures. But it¡¯s too bad; I found you. Death awaits you on the only path ahead!¡±

    ¡°Open!¡± shouted Xue Chongtian.

    The ground quaked, and a crack appeared in the secret room¡¯s roof, expanding as if an invisible force was tearing it apart.

    Powerful crimson primeval force spread out from the crack and rushed down. With a rumble, a crimson silhouette broke through the thickyer of soil and descended into the secret room. The neer was a pale youth in a blood robe.

    A sizzling sound reverberated when the youth appeared in the secret room. The noise resulted from the air being corroded by the blood qi around him.

    The room became saturated with a nauseating stench of blood, apanied by a chilling wind. The thick stench of blood made Chen Fan feel like vomiting.

    The air in the secret room was contaminated when Xue Chongtian came down, bing a bloody poisonous gas that tried to invade Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s protective primeval force stopped it.

    ¡°Who are you? How dare you steal my treasure? I¡¯ll give you one chance. Take off the mask and reveal your name. Otherwise, no one will know even if you die!¡± Xue Chongtian said.

    His blood qi surged to the skies. His eyes were bloody red and shone with an icy light.

    ¡°Hmph, for someone about to die, you sure speak a lot of nonsense. Die!¡± Chen Fan suddenly roared.

    He floated up and swept out, emanating a fierce murderous qi.

    Turning in mid-air, Chen Fan unleashed a powerful palm strike, sending a lightning-like strand of primeval force thunderously toward Xue Chongtian.

    Eager to test his strength, Chen Fan saw Xue Chongtian as the perfect opponent in the spacious secret room.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan ignoring his words and even taking the initiative to attack him, Xue Chongtian was enraged. His raging blood qi churned ferociously, bing a nearly tangible Blood Shadow Divine Whip.

    With a whip, an explosion rang out, destroying Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike.

    The Blood Shadow Divine Whip simultaneously darted toward Chen Fan like a blood snake. There were even barbed hooks on the whip that would pierce into the enemy¡¯s flesh if caught on and make them suffer a miserable end.

    Undeterred, Chen Fan confidently said, "Shatter!"

    As he struck, the collision of primeval forces created a whirlwind, resulting in a series of thunderous explosions that reverberated through the secret room, even shaking the imperial city''s buildings on the surface.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was only at the second level, his primeval force was too robust. He wasn¡¯t any weaker than Xue Chongtian, even surpassing him.

    The force of the wind from his palm was like a gale, sweeping through the air like a cannonball. The space stirred and twisted from the explosions, causing the Blood Shadow Divine Whip to burst apart.

    ¡°Pretty interesting. A mere second-level Yuanfu realm actually has such greatbat strength. Your cultivation technique is most certainly extraordinary. However, I¡¯m not interested in that. Your flesh and blood must be very delicious. I can advance to the fifth level with the help of your blood. You¡¯re dead, sinful bastard!¡±

    Xue Chongtian¡¯s eyes immediately shone with excitement. He was looking at Chen Fan as if he were a big fat sheep.

    The Blood Demon Cultivation Technique let its users advance quickly, but its users could not switch cultivation techniques afterward. As such, he wasn¡¯t interested in Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation technique.

    However, he was very interested in Chen Fan.

    He could sense a very pure source of vitality essence inside Chen Fan. His blood essence was definitelyparable to rare elixirs. It was the greatest tonic for him. He couldn¡¯t let Chen Fan escape!

 Chapter 204 - You Came Too Late

    <h4>Chapter 204 - You Came Too Late</h4>

    ¡°Hmph, an evil demon like you dares to spout nonsense in front of me? Today, I''ll cut you down and rid the world of your evil, restoring peace."

    Chen Fan flew like a bullet, and a force erupted from his palm, leaving the area trembling.

    The terrifying and oppressive force reached Xue Chongtian, startling and surprising him.

    ¡°Ridding the evil? With just you?¡± Xue Chongtian scoffed, baring two rows of white teeth. He spat arge cloud of blood-colored poisonous gas, enveloping Chen Fan.

    ¡°Just a petty trick!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly.

    <i>You think you can render me helpless with just this scarlet, poisonous gas?</i>

    <i>What a joke!</i>

    When the gas came in contact with the primeval force around Chen Fan, lightning sparks danced around him. Like a rat encountering a cat, the gas shrank back and dissipated.

    Rumors spoke of great experts who had cultivated lightning cultivation techniques to such a high level that they could materialize electricity in their palms. Lightning shed and thunder rumbled when they struck, their power making them seem like the god of thunder rampaging in the mortal world.

    Chen Fan hadn''t practiced any lightning-attributed technique, but his primeval force, mutated by a lightning strike, carried a hint of that power. While not powerful, it was still highly effective against Xue Chongtian¡¯s petty tricks.

    ¡°Wind Demon Sword Light!¡±

    Chen Fan unsheathed his sword, swinging it with primeval force enveloped in a cold sword light. This technique increased the attack¡¯s power significantly, making it capable of splitting open mountains, cracking stones, cutting metal, and breaking jade.

    ¡°Blood Shadow Poison Dragon Drill!¡±

    With a shake of his arm, Xue Chongtian turned his Blood Shadow Divine Whip into a bloody drill, boring through the air. Crackling and booming noises resounded in the secret room, shaking the space and shattering Chen Fan¡¯s sword light.

    ¡°Wind Demon Cross sh!¡±

    Chen Fan shed out twice, vertically and horizontally, forming a cross with the sword light. The two attacks shed violently, and an explosion rang out immediately. The remnant qi stormed out violently and shook the space, booming noises ringing out endlessly.

    ¡°Bastard, you do have some tricks in your sleeves. Looks like you¡¯re some elite genius disciple of some sect! But it¡¯s too bad for you. You shouldn¡¯t havee to my underground treasury to steal my loot.

    ¡°Today, no one will be able to save you. Only death lies ahead!¡±

    Xue Chongtian forcefully revolved his cultivation, unleashing a potent oppressive force that confined the entire space. The wind howled, producing a mournful whistling noise.

    ¡°Blood Shadow Boundless Prison!¡±

    He attacked violently,shing the air with the long Blood Shadow Divine Whip. Blood shadows densely filled the space, resembling waves of blood roaring from all directions.

    ¡°Wind Demon Blood Rain!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t dare to be careless. He skillfully wielded his sword to establish an imprable defense.

    Streaks of sword light shot out like wind des, raining down on the blood shadows.

    However, Xue Chongtian had unleashed his true strength.

    The endless blood shadows continued pressing in, shattering the streaks of Wind Demon Sword Light. The blood shadows were squeezing towards Chen Fan, bit by bit.

    ¡°Sinful bastard, you should be proud to have forced me to show you my true strength. You¡¯ve truly lived up to the word ¡®genius.¡¯ Unfortunately for you, I love killing geniuses. How is it? Are you regretting it now? Don¡¯t you want to kneel and beg for my mercy? Hahaha, it¡¯s useless. I¡¯ll have your blood!¡± Xue Chongtian taunted, whipping the Blood Shadow Divine Whip repeatedly like lightning.

    Crimson whip shadows flooded the space, upying the entire secret room except for its center. Chen Fan moved his sword continuously, shing out to create an imprable domain.

    ¡°You really speak too much nonsense. After trading blows with you, I have roughly understood your true capabilities. Frankly speaking, I am a bit disappointed. If this is all you have, you will die today,¡± said Chen Fan without emotions.

    He shed multiple times, switching between different moves of Nine Swords of Wind Demon. Even as the blood shadows tried invading repeatedly, they could not shake Chen Fan in the slightest.

    Chen Fan seemed like a reef at the bottom of the sea, impervious to the wind and waves.

    ¡°Such shameless boasting. You sure are an arrogant fellow!¡± Chen Fan''s words stirred fury in Xue Chongtian''s eyes.

    Undeterred by Chen Fan''s disdain, Xue Chongtian shook, and blood-colored primeval force oozed from his pores and shot out.

    ¡°Blood Shadow Divine Whip, Myriad Shadows Returning as One, stab!¡±

    The surging blood shadows gathered as one, merging with the Blood Shadow Divine Whip. A wild, blood-colored light illuminated the treasure room, turning it into a sea of blood.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    With a flick of his wrist, Xue Chongtian''s Blood Shadow Divine Whip straightened and tensed, resembling the sharpest and hardest metal, capable of piercing through space.

    It shot toward Chen Fan with lightning speed, a devastating strike that obliterated everything in its path.

    Chen Fan sensed an imminent crisis as his pupils shrunk. He roared, sheathed his sword, and grabbed at the air, condensing the Heavenly Piercing Spear.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    He squeezed out all the strength in his muscles; with a jerk, heunched his spear.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two''s attacks shed violently like an asteroid crashing into the earth. The resultant shockwave swept outward, leaving the secret room with cracks and on the verge of copse. Several tons of rubble tumbled with a rumble.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan shouted again, making an unexpected move. The Heaven Piercing Spear surged forward with unstoppable momentum. The Blood Shadow Divine Whip crumbled inch by inch amidst explosions.

    Xue Chongtian''s eyes widened in disbelief as Chen Fan''s spear shattered his strongest attack. Pinned down by the Heaven Piercing Spear, a relentless power pushed him upward.

    The falling boulders broke apart under the rumbling.

    With a whoosh, Xue Chongtian emerged from the underground secret room and appeared on the surface. A spear nailed him to the huge iron pir in the imperial pce.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan also emerged from underground, his aura surging powerfully as he looked at his enemy indifferently.

    Nailed to the pir, Xue Chongtian trembled. The terrifying force transmitted through the spear had shattered his internal organs, and his primeval vessel was suppressed.

    Xue Chongtian felt true fear.

    ¡°Xue Chongtian, you probably never expected to be¡ª¡±

    Chen Fan was interrupted by a roar that abruptly came from outside the pce.

    ¡°Xue Chongtian, I, Chu Tiange, havee to take your head!¡±

    The resounding voice shook the imperial pce, and the dome flew off with a sh.

    Chu Tiange descended, stepping through the air with a sword in hand, surrounded by an overwhelming sword intent that swept out, his aura unparalleled.

    Chen Fan looked over, and his eyes narrowed. A chilling intent erupted from him, and he said coldly, ¡°Chu Tiange, you came toote!¡±

 Chapter 205 - Thunderous Note Sword Technique

    <h4>Chapter 205 - Thunderous Note Sword Technique</h4>

    ¡°Chu Tiange, you came toote,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Chu Tiange finally noticed Xue Chongtian impaled on a massive iron pir; his eyes narrowed immediately. ¡°Hmm? Xue Chongtian, you¡¯re really trash, defeated by someone at the second level.¡±

    Shifting his gaze to Chen Fan, Chu Tiange spoke condescendingly, ¡°Fine, go ahead and kill Xue Chongtian. Retrieve his blood demon core and hand it to me before leaving.¡±

    Despite Chen Fan''s victory over Xue Chongtian, Chu Tiange disregarded him.

    ¡°Hoho.¡± Chen Fan chuckled coldly.

    Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were arrogant even outside the sect.

    Chen Fan moved his arm, and a formidable force erupted from the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    The fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert, Xue Chongtian, became dust instantly, leaving only a blood demon core the size of a fist spinning in the air.

    ¡°That¡¯s very sensible of you. Bring that to me. Don¡¯t forget to use both hands,¡± Chu Tiange said, smiling faintly.

    Chen Fan beckoned with his palm. The blood demon core and the Heaven Piercing Spear flew into his hand.

    He stomped on the air and flew out like a bullet. His protective primeval force rubbed against the air violently, making it light up like he was aet.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space and even what was left of the pce shook heavily. Itsrge iron pirs toppled, and the entire structure began to crumble down.

    ¡°Who do you think you are, Chu Tiange? Why don¡¯t I offer you my spear instead?¡± Chen Fan''s icy voice echoed, and with incredible speed, the Heaven Piercing Spear thrust forward with a poof.

    ¡°How dare you, you wretched scoundrel!¡±

    A sharp light shone in his eyes at the audacity of Chen Fan''s attack. The sword qi around him erupted violently, bing swift and fierce.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Chu Tiange shed, and the sword qi tore through the air. It obliterated everything in its path, aiming to cleave Chen Fan in two.

    ¡°You bastard, merely defeating Xue Chongtian doesn''t make you my equal! Xue Chongtian is no more than an ant in my eyes, just like you! An ant dreaming of overturning the heavens, trying to shake an elephant? How ludicrous!

    ¡°I was about to let you leave, but since you have chosen death... Here it is!¡±

    Chu Tiange¡¯s icy voice resounded, teeming with killing intent. He pointed his sword, and a faint image of Buddha appeared on his back. The Buddha was chanting something in Sanskrit.

    The chant transformed into thunderous runes that fused themselves into Chu Tiange¡¯s sword. A shocking power immediately erupted from it.

    ¡°Thunderous Note Sword Technique!¡±

    Thunderous sounds rumbled as bright lightning pierced the dark skies. Chu Tiange''s sword qi resonated like thunder, echoing its fierce power.

    The sword qi spanned a hundred meters and twisted through heaven and earth like a white dragon flying through clouds. Suddenly, it flew toward Chen Fan, aiming for his head.

    ¡°What fierce sword qi!¡±

    Chen Fan instantly sensed the imminent danger. It was far stronger than Xue Chongtian¡¯s final stab.

    The thick, thunderous sword qi tore through the air, sting toward Chen Fan. Almost no person or object could block it. Everywhere it passed, the thunderous sword qi bombarded unceasingly. Chaotic explosions rumbled, and the air current stirred wildly.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder Chu Tiange acts so arrogantly. He¡¯s actually strong. Despite also being at the fourth level, Xue Chongtian can¡¯t bepared to him. They¡¯re onpletely different levels!¡±

    Light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Xue Chongtian had been powerful enough to force Chen Fan to use the Heaven Piercing Spear. However,pared to Chu Tiange''s sh, Xue Chongtian''s final move seemed like child''s y.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Glowing runes flowed along the Heaven Piercing Spear in Chen Fan¡¯s hands, emitting a terrifying aura capable of piercing the heavens. Concentrating all his strength, he fiercely stabbed the whistling thunderous sword qi three times consecutively.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    The three resounding noises were almost synchronized, exploding at the endpoint. Instantly, chaotic turbulence shrouded Chen Fan, obscuring any view of the events within.

    Chu Tiange was very confident in his attack. He stood arrogantly in the air, the corners of his lips raised slightly into a faint, proud smile.

    He believed there was no way Chen Fan could have withstood that sh. Even if he survived, he would be severely injured!

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, a sharp, ear-piercing noise rang out.

    Chu Tiange saw a silhouette suddenly shoot out from that stormy turbulence. It was a ck spear spinning at high speed, destroying everything in its path as it whistled toward him. He felt like the spear was sucking him in and fell into a momentary daze.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear was no more than ten meters away from him by the time he came to.

    ¡°sh, sh, sh!¡±

    A dire crisis was approaching.

    Chu Tiange¡¯s expression changed drastically. He immediately retreated with all his strength and shed down simultaneously.

    Several thunderous notes of sword qi whistled out, mming into the Heaven Piercing Spear to neutralize the terrifying attack.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    In a swift motion, Chen Fan soared out from the stormy turbulence, catching the Heaven Piercing Spear in his hand. His aura surged, and a cold gaze, akin to an invincible god of war, was fixed on the somber Chu Tiange.

    ¡°Chu Tiange, this is all you¡¯re capable of!¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Chu Tiange was indeed much stronger than Xue Chongtian; still, he couldn¡¯t defeat Chen Fan.

    Of course, it wouldn¡¯t be easy for Chen Fan to defeat Chu Tiange, as they were almost the same in strength.

    Chen Fan now clearly understood his current strength.

    Chu Tiange undoubtedly stood at the pinnacle of the fourth level, almost into the fifth level. Chen Fan''s strength also resided at this level.

    ¡°Damn it. It¡¯s no wonder you defeated Xue Chongtian. I underestimated you. Well, that¡¯s fine. If you turned out to be too weak, I would have felt disappointed. I wanted to take Xue Chongtian¡¯s blood demon core and absorb the essence within to advance. But now, I¡¯ll cut you down and use your fresh blood to bring my cultivation up to the fifth level!¡± [1]

    Chu Tiange was a top-tier expert at the fourth level and a top-tier elite disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect. Although he was shocked by Chen Fan¡¯s strength, he was still confident he could kill Chen Fan.

    With a long whistle, he moved, leaving behind afterimages. After a few flickers, he appeared before Chen Fan, executing a sh reminiscent of a god splitting a mountain. The unstoppable momentum resembled the force of a god or maybe... a devil.

    1. Pretty sure it¡¯s said their cores can¡¯t be absorbed or there will be bad consequences. Maybe he has some special method? ?

 Chapter 206 - Not Holding Back

    <h4>Chapter 206 - Not Holding Back</h4>

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan wielded the Heaven Piercing Spear, tracing a natural arc as it collided with the sword''s edge.

    ¡°Rise of Ten Sun!¡±

    A fierce smile appeared on Chu Tiange¡¯s face. With a sword in one hand and an open palm in the other, he unleashed ten rings of thunderous sun sword qi toward Chen Fan.

    The attack, brimming with destructive sharpness, was an unimaginable disy of qi mastery.

    ¡°Break for me!¡±

    Chen Fan remained unfazed. He skillfully maneuvered his arm and spear through various variations, precisely shattering the ten rings of thunderous sun.

    ¡°Overturning the Universe, Wrath of Thunder!¡±

    Chu Tiange pointed with his sword, challenging heaven and earth. Thunder rumbled as a bolt of lightning descended, obliterating everything with a violent swing of the thunderous sword.

    ¡°Heaven Piercing Strike!¡±

    A fierce gleam lit up Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. The spear tip spun, forming a pitch-ck vortex that stabbed through the air.

    The vortex distorted space and drew in the oing thunderous sword strike, which vanished into nothingness.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear flew straight at Chu Tiange¡¯s throat.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Chu Tiange¡¯s expression changed, as he hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to break his attack. Looking shocked, he immediately fell back and executed a different move with his sword.

    ¡°Storm of Thunderous Sea!¡± he eximed, pushing his cultivation to the limit.

    His sword swung, streaks of sword light shing with electrical brilliance, resembling a meteorite shower that nketed the sky.

    These thunderous sword lights exploded when they came into contact with Chen Fan¡¯s primeval force.

    <i>Rumble, boom...</i>

    A swirling, chaotic current swept the air.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t move an inch despite the explosion, wielding his spear fiercely, spinning it like a windmill. The violent air current was all sucked into the spear, disappearing without a trace.

    Chen Fan pointed his spear once more. The Heaven Piercing Spear shot out, extending like a heavenly pir breaking through the blue sky, evoking the image of an ancient god suppressing the heavens and earth, its divine grace akin to the sea.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    His spear stabbed out. All his power converged at one point, striking toward Chu Tiange.

    ¡°Universe of Thunder, god of lightning descends, singing thunderous notes, the might of the vast heavens, cleanses the starry sky!¡±

    Chu Tiange''s expression turned solemn, recognizing that he had encountered his most formidable opponent yet.

    His enemy was at the second level, but their strength was truly terrifying. The spear that seemed to pierce through the heavens and kill gods and devils made his heart tremble. He decided to go all out.

    His rolling primeval force stirred as he chanted under his breath, spewing from his pores. His sword nked as if expressing the wrath of thunder.

    All his qi was unleashed from the top of his head, resembling a thundercloud rumbling and shing with lightning. He stood like the god of thunder, wielding his sword to cut down all the demons in the world.

    His sword qi flew out crazily, and electric arcs blossomed from his sword. The arcs weaved together to create a force field that seemed to contain heavenly might.

    Even the air within this field froze. The force field seemed strong enough to destroy heaven and earth.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Even those fighting the blood-sucking bandits outside the imperial city felt the ominous aura emanating from the imperial pce. All eyes turned toward it with grave expressions.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Chu Tiange¡¯s arm suddenly fell.

    Within that force field, vast and majestic thunderous sword light surged like a lightning river, carrying a violent, destructive aura. It could wash over the starry sky and destroy the sun, moon, and the stars.

    A white light burst from the imperial pce, illuminating the surrounding ten-mile radius as if it were daytime.

    The blood shadow poisonous gas from the blood-sucking bandits melted like, pushed back by the white light. Some bandits even bled from their seven orifices, shrieking miserably.

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°What a terrifying aura. Is heaven and earth being destroyed?¡±

    ¡°Who is that figure in that white light? The god of thunder descending into the world?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Shocked, the disciples of the various sects kept their gazes on the imperial pce.

    What kind of formidable force could produce an electrical light that effortlessly exterminated all malevolent beings? It had neutralized the poisonous gas from the bandits and even killed some of the weaker ones.

    The eyes of the third-level Yuanfu realm experts from the Divine Light Sect, Floating Cloud Sword Sect, and other sects flickered. They couldn¡¯t even hope to achieve this with their strengths.

    If they had such terrifying strength, they could have eradicated these blood-sucking bandits alone.

    ¡°This is... Senior Brother Chu Tiange¡¯s Thunderous Note Sword Technique!¡±

    The youth in blue from the Heaven¡¯s Alliance looked over with a shocked gaze. His slightly trembling voice rang in the area, his eyes filled with intense admiration.

    ¡°Is Xue Chongtian so strong that he forced Senior Brother Chu Tiange to use his strongest move?!¡±

    The youth in purple also looked astonished.

    Though others were uncertain about the situation, these elite disciples from Heaven¡¯s Alliance knew. As soon as they had arrived here, Chu Tiange headed straight to the imperial pce to confront and eliminate Xue Chongtian, aiming to plunder the treasures.

    The direction of the intense sh was precisely where the Lon Ancient Kingdom¡¯s imperial pce stood. It became evident that Chu Tiange and Xue Chongtian were engaged in battle, with the former resorting to his strongest technique.

    The Heaven¡¯s Alliance elite disciples were shaken at the realization of Xue Chongtian''s terrifying prowess.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    As Chu Tiange executed his strongest attack, the thunderous sword light rushed out like a heavenly river, washing over the space.

    Everything would be annihted in that river-like thunderous sword light as if they had never existed.

    The already ruined imperial pce disintegrated under the thunderous light, bing ash.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk violently. He felt stabbing pain all over, and his pores opened wide. He began breathing heavily, and his hair stood on ends like steel needles.

    ¡°Phew!¡±

    Chen Fan took a deep breath. His aura rose to the limits.

    His cultivation erupted, the Heaven Seizing Furnace spun, the two illusory primeval vessels blossomed with terrifying power, and the Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡¯s godly strength surged inside him.

    In that critical moment, Chen Fan activated his strength to the absolute maximum, leaving nothing in reserve.

    Confronted with Chu Tiange''s thunderous sword-light river capable of washing over the starry sky, he dared not hold anything back.

    He had to go all out, or he would face grave consequences.

 Chapter 207 - Skewering Three with a Spear

    <h4>Chapter 207 - Skewering Three with a Spear</h4>

    An intense, unparalleled feeling took hold of Chen Fan''s mind; his heart beat heavily.

    On the Dragon Mountain Peak¡¯s tform, he had felt utterly helpless against Duan Jingtian, who was overwhelmingly stronger than him. He had felt despair back then.

    However, what he felt right now wasn¡¯t that, but rather palpitations of the heart.

    Although they were evenly matched, Chu Tiange had unleashed his strongest move¡ªa vast and mighty sword light carrying the heavenly might of thunder. Even the sun, moon, and stars changed color and trembled under its influence.

    The attack could kill any martial artist at the fourth level.

    Chu Tiange had put every ounce of strength in it, holding nothing back. Sensing the imminent danger, Chen Fan countered without hesitation.

    As he activated the Heaven Seizing Art, his original primeval vessel bloomed with a divine light. The primeval force in his primeval vessel burned, releasing endless power that surged wildly in his meridians, producing crashing noises.

    Magma andva churned inside the Heaven Seizing Furnace, erupting with a terrifying force. Chen Fan¡¯s blood boiled, birthing an even stronger power, and coursed through his veins with vigor.

    The two illusory primeval vessels revolved crazily around his original primeval vessel, projecting their immense force into it. Chen Fan''s aura rolled violently, steadily rising higher and higher.

    He also pushed the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to its limits, unleashing godly strength within his flesh and blood. The ancient wild elephants within him flung their trunks, emitting a dragon-elephant-like hiss.

    It had been quite a while since Chen Fan had brought out every crumb of his strength.

    All his powers converged on the Heaven Piercing Spear, which trembled and hummed like it had a spirit and could sense the formidable force emanating from Chen Fan. The spear''s vibrations induced shaking in the surrounding space, apanied by a tearing sound.

    ¡°Pierce!¡±

    A single note came out from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. His movement was simrly simple. His arm violently thrust forward, propelling the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The friction produced a sharp noise as the air exploded above the spear. A wild surge of white air current tossed and turned the space like turbulent sea waves.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A resounding rumble echoed, akin to an asteroid colliding with thend, a deity shing with a devil, or the sun colliding with a star.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear shed with the thunderous sword stream, causing an explosion that silenced all other sounds in the world.

    ......

    Some distance away:

    The fighting between the elite disciples of the various sects and the blood-sucking bandits had stopped.

    All gazes converged on the sh, witnessing a mushroom cloud rising from the imperial pce, reaching a towering height of a thousand feet and shaking the heavens.

    Terrifying air currents whistled and swept over them. Buildings copsed and crumbled under the fierce impact, turning into ruins.

    The space shook violently. Shockwaves visible to the naked eye rolled out, rushing like a river stream, sweeping in all directions.

    Everything was about to be destroyed under this force.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Near the imperial pce, some hiding bandits let out miserable cries affected by the fallout. Some even exploded, turning into bloody mist.

    ¡°Quickly retreat!¡± shouted some experts, their faces pale.

    The fierce shockwaves were rapidly rolling out for about a dozen miles away, reaching the ongoing battle between the blood-sucking bandit army and disciples from the various sects.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Some couldn''t evade in time, so both the blood-sucking bandits and the disciples spewed fresh blood from the impact as if struck by lightning. They had sustained some heavy injuries.

    Weakerbatants and injured Yuanfu realm experts roared indignantly and perished from the impact, bing history.

    Countless eyes stared in shock at the terrifying storm rolling over. Everyone''splexion turned pale as if they had narrowly escaped the gates of hell.

    ¡°This... is too terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Chu Tiange and Xue Chongtian are actually this powerful. Neither is giving ground to the other. I''m afraid both are just half a step away from reaching the fifth level.¡±

    ¡°No, the other person can¡¯t be Xue Chongtian! He practices the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique. His moves should fill the sky with blood shadows and be incredibly sinister. However, the earlier attack showed no sign of evil qi.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right! The other person is not Xue Chongtian! Could it be a genius disciple of some sect?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Discussions echoed as people squinted, trying to guess who Chu Tiange was fighting.

    The geniuses of the various sects knew about each other. Chu Tiange was a genius among the elite disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect. So, a prominent figure like him was naturally well-known among the disciples of the other sects.

    However, they knew nothing about the other fighter, Chen Fan.

    ......

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    The fierce wind storm gradually calmed down in the skies above the imperial pce, revealing Chen Fan and Chu Tiange.

    Their clothingy in tatters from the collision of formidable forces, and both panted heavily, their blood and qi in tumult.

    They had employed their strongest moves earlier, but neither managed to gain an advantage¡ªthey were evenly matched.

    Underneath his mask, Chen Fan stared at Chu Tiange grimly and smiled. ¡°Chu Tiange, you¡¯re powerful, as expected. Unfortunately, you aren¡¯t strong enough to kill me. I can¡¯t kill you, either, but I will soon be able to!

    "Alright, I''ll spare your life for now. I''ll collect it in the future!" said Chen Fan as he swiftly moved, sweeping away into the distance. Continuing the fight with Chu Tiange wouldn''t yield a positive oue; both would be significantly weakened instead, benefiting others.

    Although Chen Fan wanted to kill Chu Tiange very much, thetter was too strong. He could only force a draw even after unleashing his full power. Killing Chu Tiange now was beyond his capability, but it would be possible after advancing to the third level.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan turned into a streak of light and shot into the distance.

    Chu Tiange¡¯splicated expressions changed a few times. He gave chase and yelled loudly, ¡°Luo Ling, Ying Tian, stop him with our men!¡±

    Chu Tiange was arrogant and proud by nature. He found the draw against someone in the second level of the Yuanfu realm a great humiliation.

    Driven by the desire to hold Chen Fan back and kill him, he rallied hispanions. Despite the exhaustion from their earlier sh, Chu Tiange believed that by joining forces, they could eliminate Chen Fan.

    The Heaven¡¯s Alliance elite disciples, dressed in blue, purple, and other colors, responded to Chu Tiange''s shout. Eager to prove themselves, they swiftly moved, coordinating their attacks to stop Chen Fan.

    ¡°Courting death!¡±

    Chen Fan smirked coldly at their audacity. They dared to chase him with only first and second-level cultivation!

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan thrust his spear out. Heaven and earth resonated, and the wind and clouds changed colors.

    Their attacks all shattered. A terrifying force erupted, mming into the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members.

    The blue- and purple-d youths were at the forefront like a skewer of sugar-coated hawthorn candy.

    Chen Fan pierced them with the Heaven Piercing Spear, shaking his arm to unleash explosive strength. The three met a miserable end¡ªexploding without a chance to cry out, leaving no trace behind.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Fan harrumphed coldly with an invincible, ferocious might. The others¡¯ faces went pale, retreating in fear.

    With a swish, Chen Fan melded into the darkness, disappearing without a trace.

 Chapter 208 - Returning to the Sect

    <h4>Chapter 208 - Returning to the Sect</h4>

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it!¡±

    Chu Tiange also began chasing Chen Fan, and when he saw the three dead Heaven¡¯s Alliance members, he was enraged.

    He swung his sword wildly, unleashing streaks of sword light with thunderous rumbling.

    However, Chen Fan had used a thousandth of the time it took to blink his eyes to kill the three; he hadn¡¯t even paused for a moment. He had killed three experts at the second level in passing.

    So, Chen Fan had long since left the area before Chu Tiange arrived there.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Thunderous qi notes pierced the thickyer of clouds, forcefully dispersing them.

    ¡°Ah...!¡±

    Chu Tiange trembled angrily, staring daggers at Chen Fan¡¯s fleeting shadow.

    A top-tier elite disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect had failed to defeat someone at the second level. His actions even led to the death of three Heaven¡¯s Alliance members. He had brought shame to his identity.

    What further irked him was that he had failed even to identify the masked assant. They were enveloped in a strange energy that thwarted any attempts to discern their identity.

    Having survived, the heavily injured first-level Yuanfu realm Heaven¡¯s Alliance members nervously observed the shreddedyer of clouds in the sky.

    They had survived because they had been slow. Slow due to their weaker cultivation. Otherwise, they would have died instead of just suffering heavy injuries. Surviving due to their weakness was an unexpected turn of events for them.

    Shocked and fearful, the onlookers recoiled as they witnessed Chu Tiange''s enraged state, shrinking back instinctively.

    They were also curious about the masked fighter¡¯s identity. After all, they had made Chu Tiange suffer such a loss.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    His gaze icy, Chu Tiange¡¯s chest rose and fell heavily, disying his boiling rage.

    The mysterious assant had left, leaving him with no target for retribution. The unfortunate blood-sucking bandits became the outlet for his pent-up anger.

    Sword light erupted from Chu Tiange¡¯s de, each stroke carrying a terrifying force that tore through everything, sweeping out in all directions and eliminating the blood-sucking bandits.

    ¡°Run!¡± yelled a third-level Yuanfu realm bandit and turned to run.

    Their leader, Xue Chongtian, was dead. So, facing Chu Tiange''s wrath, they scattered in different directions, leaving their fate to chance.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    However, just as that third-level Yuanfu realm expert¡¯s voice fell, a thunderous sound rang in his ear; before he could react, the sword qi tore him to pieces.

    ¡°Kill! Wipe out these demonic bastards!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t let a single one of them go!¡±

    ¡°Kill! Kill! Kill!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The others also came back to their senses.

    Immediately, theyunched a fierce attack, sweeping out and killing the blood-sucking bandit army that was already defeated and running for their lives.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    The blood-sucking bandits, devoid of any will to fight, were mercilessly massacred by the disciples from numerous sects.

    Dismembered limbs and fresh blood spattered everywhere. Miserable cries rang out non-stop.

    Leading the ruthless ughter was none other than Chu Tiange, his Thunderous Note Sword Technique tearing through the bandit army as if he were traversing tnds.

    Rolling sword qi erupted ferociously with each swing of his sword, leaving none alive. In moments, hundreds, even thousands, of blood demon cores formed a gruesome belt behind him.

    Chu Tiange was like a killing god at this moment. No one could stop him.

    ......

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan remained oblivious to the tragic scene unfolding in Lon Imperial City.

    He shot straight toward the horizon. After covering over a dozen miles, he unfolded the Wings of Rain Dragon and tore through the air like a roc, producing sonic booms.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan ultimately descended into a valley far away. He began organizing the loot he obtained on this trip to the northwesternnds.

    Undoubtedly, he had benefited the most from this expedition to the northwest.

    Almost everything Xue Chongtian and his gang had plundered went into his pocket, filling several storage rings to the brim. They would surely make the Chen n¡¯s reserves swell up.

    He had also killed numerous blood-sucking bandits. Even if he put aside the ones he couldn¡¯t hand over to the sect, he could exchange the remaining ones for about a thousand contribution points.

    ¡°Nice! The northwest trip lived up to my expectations!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone brilliantly.

    The immense wealth he had acquired would significantly elerate his cultivation progress and alleviate any of his concerns about resources.

    ¡°Pity, I just wasn¡¯t strong enough. Killing Chu Tiange would have made this trip perfect.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent, regretting his failure to kill Chu Tiange.

    ¡°But no matter. Opportunities will arise in the future. I''ll focus on advancing my cultivation before returning to the sect!¡±

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged on the ground. With a wave of his hand, thousands of primeval stones immediately surrounded him like a silver band, bursting simultaneously and turning into the purest primeval qi.

    Opening his mouth wide, Chen Fan inhaled like a whale, absorbing a massive amount of primeval qi. His cultivation surged, replenishing the vast amounts of primeval force depleted in the intense battle.

    Next, he retrieved a few demon cores and swallowed them. The Heaven Seizing Furnace in his dantian erupted, refining the cores into vitality essence that spread through him. Chen Fan''s aura immediately began to ascend.

    Middle-stage, second-level Yuanfu realm!

    Late-stage, second-level Yuanfu realm!

    Peak-stage, second-level Yuanfu realm!

    He had swallowed and refined more than ten Tier-2, first-level demon cores. Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation skyrocketed, reaching the peak of the second level. He was just a step away from advancing to the third level.

    Six hours had passed, transitioning from night to day, and the snowfall had stopped. The sun hung high, casting a silver-white sheen over thendscape.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes. A sharp light shot out from them.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to return to the sect.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up. His aura erupted violently as he whizzed into the clouds, making the umted snow in the valley cascade.

    Sensing his imposing presence, snow creatures like chickens, rabbits, foxes, wolves, and even demon beasts hurriedly fled from the area. Chen Fan leaped into the air, rushing out of the valley toward the Spring Autumn Sect.

    While his journey was filled with joy, the situation was a bit different in the northwest region.

    Chu Tiange was angry. Very angry.

    Although he had turned into a killing god the previous night and ughtered many blood-sucking bandits to vent his frustrations, he still was shockingly angry.

    The Heaven¡¯s Alliance members following him were all trembling with fear, not daring to breathe even slightly louder.

 Chapter 209 - The Complete Version of Undefeated Kingâ€™s Fist

    <h4>Chapter 209 - The Complete Version of Undefeated King¡¯s Fist</h4>

    After enduring five days and nights traversing the snow-covered northwesternnds, Chen Fan finally reached the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Although he failed to eliminate Chu Tiange on this mission to eliminate the blood-sucking bandits, he did manage to finish off Xue Chongtian. His reward from the expedition was much greater than any other party.

    Chen Fan, however, kept the blood demon cores of Xue Chongtian and the other powerful bandits a secret.

    Revealing them would expose his identity to Chu Tiange, potentially leading to repercussions from Duan Jingtian.

    Chen Fan resolved to maintain a low profile and gradually enhance his strength to safeguard his existence. Aware that drawing attention might provoke Duan Jingtian''s hostility, he exercised caution.

    Although he could now fight everyone below the fifth level, his sect housed many experts above that level of strength. And many of those people followed Duan Jingtian¡¯smand.

    If these people were to make a move, there was no way Chen Fan could survive.

    ¡°Hehe, Chu Tiange must be dying in anger right now. He doesn¡¯t even know who he fought tooth and nail with.¡± A cold look of amusement shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he imagined Chu Tiange fuming in anger.

    Someone as arrogant and proud as Chu Tiange could only fight someone at the second level to a draw. His stupidity even led to the deaths of three alliance members. He was bound to be furious.

    Most importantly, he didn¡¯t even know who he had fought.

    It was like being smacked on the head with a stick by a stranger.

    ......

    After returning to the sect, Chen Fan rested briefly before venturing into the inner sect''s depths and entering an aged stone hall known as the Merit Hall.

    Adorned with imposing characters, it was a hub for exchanging contribution points for various treasures.

    Chen Fan looked at the big words, especially the word ¡°merit.¡± It looked majestic. It symbolized the Spring Autumn Sect''smitment to righteousness and orthodoxy.

    He looked at it for a while before walking into the hall.

    Due to the blood-sucking bandits terrorizing the northwesternnds, many inner sect disciples had gone to kill the bandits to earn contribution points.

    With the bandits now eradicated, disciples returned to the sect in droves, infusing the Merit Hall with a lively atmosphere.

    As soon as Chen Fan walked in, he noticed that Chu Tiange¡¯s group was also there.

    Chu Tiange handed over his blood demon cores to the elder of the Merit Hall. The cores cascaded with a tter, forming a substantial pile emitting a majestic qi tinged with the scent of blood.

    ¡°Woah, how many blood-sucking bandits did he kill?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? Senior Brother Chu Tiange disyed unparalleled prowess in Lon Ancient Imperial City, the blood-sucking bandits'' main camp. He swept through the city alone with his sword, massacring the bandits and leaving a river of blood in his wake. Nearly ten thousand blood-sucking bandits fell to his sword.¡±

    ¡°That many?! Such a pity. I''m only a Qi Grandmaster and didn''t dare venture to Lon Ancient Imperial City.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The disciples marveled at the mountain of blood demon cores, their gazes filled with astonishment and admiration.

    Each blood demon core represented a dead bandit, and that mountain seemingly had thousands of cores.

    The elder of the Merit Hall was a Yuanfu realm powerhouse. Chen Fan guessed that he might be at the eighth or ninth level. With a quick scan, the elder said, ¡°A total of thirty-six hundred contribution points.¡±

    The elder sent a jade token soaring toward Chu Tiange with a casual flick.

    Approximately thirty-six hundred star-like symbols glittered inside the token, each denoting a contribution point. These points opened the door to a variety of resources within the sect.

    Chu Tiange took the jade token and turned to leave.

    When he passed by the entrance, he happened to run into Chen Fan. Killing intent immediately rose in his eyes, but he suppressed it and said coldly, ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Unaware that Chen Fan was his masked adversary from the imperial city, Chu Tiange saw him as a mere first-level Yuanfu realm martial artist.

    Chen Fan stepped to the side indifferently, clearing a path for Chu Tiange. He didn¡¯t bother arguing with him.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan acting sensibly, Chu Tiange also didn¡¯t find fault with Chen Fan.

    Currently, his primary concern was locating the enigmatic masked man.

    <i>Hehe, Chu Tiange, you have no idea that I was the one you fought in the imperial city.</i>

    Chen Fan smiled coldly in his heart.

    The thought of seeing Chu Tiange''s reaction when learning about his identity as the mysterious masked man filled Chen Fan with intrigue. However, Chu Tiange would die the day he learned that fact.

    After Chu Tiange left, the crowd in the hall started talking among themselves again.

    ¡°Thirty-six hundred contribution points! My god, what an amount! But why does Senior Brother Chu Tiange not look happy? He looks somewhat furious instead.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know about that, huh? During their trip to kill the blood-sucking bandits, Senior Brother Chu Tiange nned to kill Xue Chongtian and take his blood demon core, but someone else got to him first. A masked man killed Xue Chongtian and then fought Senior Brother Chu Tiange to a standstill. Three elite disciples from Heaven¡¯s Alliance also died. It''s no wonder he''s furious.¡±

    ¡°So that¡¯s how it is! Then do you know who that mysterious masked man is? Which sect¡¯s genius disciple is he?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? That mysterious masked man was quite enigmatic. His strength is astonishing despite being only at the second level of the Yuanfu realm. Three second-level experts fell under his single attack, helpless to defend themselves and killed on the spot.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Chu Tiange could not do anything to him even after executing his strongest move. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯s still trying to unmask that mysterious man.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The fear dissipated after Chu Tiange''s departure, prompting the crowd to share the fragments of information they possessed freely.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t waste any time. He came before that elder and brought out what he had harvested.

    While not as abundant as Chu Tiange''s, Chen Fan''s harvest caught the attention of those nearby.

    ¡°This guy... seems like he had a decent haul in the northwest. There are even first-level blood demon cores. He''s quite formidable; he should fetch over a thousand contribution points with that.¡±

    The Merit Hall¡¯s elder looked at Chen Fan, then quickly scanned the pile of blood demon cores and uttered, ¡°Twelve hundred contribution points.¡±

    Chen Fan received his jade token, thanked him, and left directly.

    After exiting the Merit Hall, Chen Fan went straight to the Scripture Depository. He spent all twelve hundred contribution points in exchange for the three final moves of Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, gaining theplete version of it.

    Theplete version of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist was a middle-profound tier martial skill. The entire skill would have cost him twenty-five hundred contribution points, but since Chen Fan already knew the first six moves, he only exchanged thest three moves.

    These concluding moves¡ªUnrivaled, Glorious King¡¯s Fist, and Undefeated King¡ªwere now part of Chen Fan''s repertoire. Combining them with the initial six moves granted him aprehensive understanding of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist.

    Chen Fan now had two profound tier martial skills in his arsenal: Undefeated King¡¯s Fist and Nine Swords of Wind Demon.

 Chapter 210 - Tianxia Society

    <h4>Chapter 210 - Tianxia Society</h4>

    Chen Fan swept through his residence like a gale, practicing thest three styles of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. His movements made the air crackle and explode.

    ¡°Unrivaled!¡±

    The image of three heads and six arms manifested around him, the six arms erupting in unison.

    The space stirred as he executed the Unrivaled style, capable of sting an ancient mountain into smithereens.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Looking like an upside-down silver hook, he switched to a different move. ¡°Glorious King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    A dazzling light erupted from Chen Fan¡¯s six arms, and a terrifying force erupted from them. It seemed like they could split the sky open, bringing light to thends.

    ¡°Undefeated King!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s stance changed again.

    The three heads turned, looking in all directions with different faces. The six arms moved about, turning into a blur.

    Wisps of berserk fist force rippled in the air, booming consecutively, making Chen Fan look like an invincible god of battle.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop, pop, pop...</i>

    Chen Fan withdrew his fists and stood on the spot, his aura calming down.

    The air currents from the explosions whistled like a fierce gale, and the shockwaves from the punches popped in the air continuously.

    ¡°Amazing. This middle-profound tier martial skill surpasses even the Nine Swords of Wind Demon!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone brilliantly.

    The final three styles of Undefeated King''s Fist were astounding, elevating hisbat strength by ten percent.

    Of course, using it would consume vast amounts of primeval force. Even though he had a rich reserve, his forehead was still sweaty from the exertion.

    Seating himself in a lotus position, Chen Fan took out primeval stones and demon cores and began refining and absorbing them.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    His insides shivered with vigor as he replenished his primeval qi reserves. The demon cores¡¯ vitality essence transformed into energy, and Chen Fan¡¯s aura slowly rose, showing signs of breaking through.

    Four hourster:

    With a loud boom, waves of primeval force surged like a tide in Chen Fan¡¯s meridians. His primeval vessel shone with divine light as the thirdyer formed.

    Finally, Chen Fan was at the third level.

    ¡°Good, I can definitely kill Chu Tiange now!¡±

    Chen Fan stood up, a radiant light shining in his eyes. He wished he could immediately find and kill Chu Tiange.

    He even wanted to roar at the skies but wisely suppressed his urges.

    ¡°Keep a low profile! Lay low!" he reminded himself, a sh of wisdom in his eyes.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace revolved, and Chen Fan''s aura receded like a tide, eventually stabilizing at the peak-stage, first-level Yuanfu realm.

    A tree that stood out in the forest was bound to be toppled by the wind.

    Chen Fan already faced all kinds of difficulties in the inner sect, so keeping a low profile was better.

    ¡°Chen Fan,e out!¡±

    Suddenly, a stern shout came from outside his residence, rumbling like thunder. The air boomed, stirring Chen Fan¡¯s qi and blood.

    The other elite disciples living nearby were rmed by the shout and came out one after another to check the situation.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°Eh? It¡¯s Yu Xiong¡¯s gang. Tianxia Society¡¯s people!¡±

    ¡°Why did Chen Fan offend the Tianxia Society? Is he really tired of living?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s neighbors, fellow disciples, saw a group outside Chen Fan¡¯s residence. Their expressions changed, and their gazes flickered, recognizing Yu Xiong and his gang.

    Why would the Tianxia Society find trouble with Chen Fan?

    Had Chen Fan taken the initiative to provoke them?

    The disciples couldn''t fathom why Chen Fan, already an outcast within the inner sect and an enemy of numerous Heaven''s Alliance members, would recklessly provoke another significant force like the Tianxia Society.

    They were well aware of the Tianxia Society¡¯s influence in the inner sect. Although not as extensive as the Heaven''s Alliance, itmanded considerable sway.

    Tianxia Society¡¯s leader, Feng Tianxia, was also a holy disciple. Moreover, he was ranked among the top ten holy disciples.

    As if offending the Heaven¡¯s Alliance hadn¡¯t been enough, Chen Fan went ahead and offended the Tianxia Society also.

    Duan Jingtian had already warned the alliance members against harming Chen Fan.

    Inside the Spring Autumn Sect, the members refrained from confronting Chen Fan; at most, they resorted to making things difficult and subjecting him to humiliation. However, non-alliance members were an exception to that rule.

    Bloodshed wasmon due to the intensepetition within the inner sect and the sect''s encouragement of rivalry among disciples.

    Now that the Tianxia Society came knocking on Chen Fan¡¯s doors, the crowd didn¡¯t think they were there with kind intentions.

    ¡°I heard that a month ago, when Chen Fan first joined the inner sect, Yu Xiong approached him with an offer to join the Tianxia Society. Chen Fan declined and beat them.¡±

    ¡°Surely not. Yu Xiong at the second level. At that time, Chen Fan was only in the first-level Yuanfu realm, wasn¡¯t he?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s impossible about that! Back in the blessednd, don¡¯t you remember his heaven-defying feat? While being a Qi Grandmaster, he killed a first-level Yuanfu realm expert. So, he can injure Yu Xiong with first-level Yuanfu realm cultivation.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true! But Song Yang, a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert, is with them this time. Chen Fan can¡¯t be a match for him even if he has three heads and six arms.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    While the crowd nearby engaged in discussion, Chen Fan emerged from his residence and confronted Yu Xiong''s group.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± he inquired, recalling Yu Xiong''s previous attempt to recruit him into the Tianxia Society, which had resulted in a confrontation and injury to Yu Xiong himself.

    ¡°Does everyone from your society like forcing things on others? I refused you the first time, but here you are again with someone stronger to force me into agreeing.¡±

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡± eximed some Tianxia Society experts, their voices resounding with indignation as their primeval force stirred.

    A youth in purple at the third level said coldly, ¡°You little bastard, our Tianxia Society took pity on you and is willing to take you in. So be it if you¡¯re not appreciative, but you even dared to injure our people. What audacity you have!¡±

    ¡°Hoho.¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled coldly and said, ¡°He would have injured me if I hadn¡¯t fought back. Besides, how was I to know that your members, with their high cultivation, would turn out to be so... feeble?¡±

    Chen Fan''s words brought a flush of shame to Yu Xiong''s face and ears.

    As someone at the second level, he had been defeated by Chen Fan, a first-level Yuanfu realm cultivator, in a single move.

    Now that Chen Fan was ridiculing him in front of everyone, he wanted to rush up and rip his mouth apart.

    ¡°You damned little bastard. You clearly ambushed me when I wasn''t prepared, and now you dare to im I''m not your match!¡±

    Naturally, Yu Xiong wouldn¡¯t admit Chen Fan beat him in one move.

    Chen Fan nced at Yu Xiong and pursed his lips. ¡°Since you¡¯re saying that, let¡¯s fight in front of everyone. My cultivation level is still at the first level. Surely, I¡¯m no match for you.¡±

    Chen Fan intentionally emphasized his words, casting a sly smile in Yu Xiong''s direction.

 Chapter 211 - Life and Death Arena

    <h4>Chapter 211 - Life and Death Arena</h4>

    ¡°You...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words made Yu Xiong stutter, and his gaze flickered.

    Fight him again?

    And lose what little face he had left in the sect?

    Moreover, he wasn¡¯t the main character today; the other members of Tianxia Society were.

    ¡°Hmph, indeed, you¡¯re an extremely arrogant and condescending person. How dare you call our Tianxia Society members weak. Since you¡¯ve said that, fine,e with us and fight in the life-and-death arena!¡± said the youth leading the group, Song Yang.

    Song Yang was fair, handsome, and dressed in white. He was the Prince Charming in the eyes of love-struck women. He looked icily at Chen Fan with a cold smile.

    Chen Fan had dared to reject the Tianxia Society¡¯s invitation, simply pping their face and showing no respect.

    They needed to recover their lost face.

    Not just anyone could say ¡°no¡± to them.

    Also, their members couldn¡¯t be bullied!

    Chen Fan nced at Song Yang, not giving him much consideration.

    Song Yang was at the fourth level but weaker than even Xue Chongtian. He wasn¡¯t a match for Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t reveal his true strength, whichplicated the situation.

    He wanted to reject them, but Song Yang had found a loophole in what Chen Fan had said earlier. After all, Chen Fan himself had suggested a fight.

    ¡°Hoho, what a joke. I have no choice but to get into a life-and-death battle because you demanded it? I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t have that much time!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying you don¡¯t dare to!¡±

    Song Yang wasn¡¯t surprised by his refusal. His cold smile grew wider, and his gaze became sharper. He shouted, ¡°Chen Fan, you insulted our Tianxia society in public. If you don''t provide an exnation, forget about making peace today!¡±

    The several Tianxia Society members behind him looked at Chen Fan, smiling coldly with their arms crossed.

    Thinking of refusing them?

    Tianxia Society had numerousbels to pin on Chen Fan and various methods to coerce his agreement.

    Aware of that fact, Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°When did I insult the Tianxia Society?¡±

    Song Yang said coldly, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that our members, with their high cultivation, were actually just... What was the word? Yes, feeble. What is that if not an insult?¡±

    An icy light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, and he said, ¡°What more exnation do you need?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s quite simple.¡±

    Song Yang extended two fingers and said, ¡°First,e with us to the life-and-death arena and fight. Didn¡¯t you say our members are weak? Fight us and prove your words!

    ¡°Second, you can refuse to fight; since you¡¯ve insulted our Tianxia Society, you will have to pay the price. Kneel before the gates of our headquarters for three days and three nights as punishment!

    ¡°Take your pick.¡±

    Song Yang smiled coldly.

    He wanted to see if Chen Fan would opt to hide like a tortoise.

    ¡°This... is too harsh! Kneeling in front of their headquarters for so long? They simply want to humiliate him in the harshest way possible. Will he even be able to lift his head after that?¡±

    ¡°They''re forcing Chen Fan into a life-and-death battle.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what he would choose. Tianxia Society hase prepared. Zhao Gao, Luo Qing, and the others are all at the third level. Chen Fan will die if he goes to the arena.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd discussed eagerly, anticipating the unfolding spectacle.

    Chen Fan looked at Song Yang icily and briefly fell silent. He said slowly, ¡°What if I don¡¯t pick either of them?¡±

    ¡°Refuse both?¡±

    With a cruel expression, Song Yang said coldly, ¡°I guess I just have to choose one for you.¡±

    A powerful aura erupted from him, sweeping through heaven and earth. The spectators'' expressions changed immediately.

    However, Chen Fan was unfazed by the powerful aura.

    He stared at Song Yang with a sharp, icy gaze for a while and said, ¡°Fine. I¡¯lle with you to the arena, but...

    ¡°You have so many people on your side while I¡¯m alone. You aren¡¯t nning on making me fight till all of you are dead, right?¡±

    ¡°You arrogant fellow, what do you mean? I, Zhao Gao, alone am enough to kill you!¡± The purple-clothed youth stepped forward quickly, ring at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t look his way and kept his eyes trained on Song Yang.

    Song Yang said, ¡°Five people.¡±

    ¡°As long as those five are from this group alone. Also, you aren¡¯t allowed to fight. After all, I¡¯m only at the first level. If you intervene, what I said earlier won''t be baseless,¡± said Chen Fan, ncing across Song Yang and the group.

    While unafraid of Song Yang, Chen Fan didn¡¯t want to reveal his trump cards to fight Song Yang, as it could alert Chu Tiange.

    Song Yang observed Chen Fan before he nodded. ¡°Fine.¡±

    ¡°I hope your words hold. After all, there are many witnesses around us,¡± Chen Fan remarked indifferently.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Song Yang turned and led the group toward the life-and-death arena.

    Chen Fan strode forth, following them.

    ¡°He epted the fight!¡±

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go to the arena!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, it seems Chen Fan''s three-year promise with Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is about to be broken. He will die today, and Senior Brother won¡¯t even have to intervene.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd''s eyes flickered.

    ......

    The Life and Death Hall, a distinctive area in the Spring Autumn Sect,y empty. A vast battle tform upied its space¡ªthe life-and-death arena.

    Chen Fan followed Song Yang¡¯s group and entered the Life and Death Hall.

    Behind them, a big group of inner sect disciples rushed in. They had alle to watch the show after hearing the news.

    ¡°Chen Fan will really fight five society members to death? He¡¯s truly overestimating himself and seeking death!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Once you enter that arena, your life and death will be left up to fate. It¡¯s useless even if he is Elder Wei¡¯s personal disciple. Only death awaits him!¡±

    ¡°His three-year promise with Senior Brother Duan Jingtian will be no more after this. Today will be the day he dies.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Inner sect disciples entered the Life and Death Hall one after another, discussing among themselves. Their gazes toward Chen Fan were cold and full of amusement.

    ¡°Senior Brother Chu, it seems like we won¡¯t have to intervene. That little rascal Chen Fan is done for,¡± said an alliance member.

    Chu Tiange was entering the Life and Death Hall with several Heaven¡¯s Alliance members.

    ¡°I''ve tolerated him staying in the inner sect for a month. If Senior Brother Duan Jingtian hadn''t forbidden us, I would have dealt with that sinful bastard long ago.¡±

    ¡°Forget it. Killing him will only dirty our hands. Since the Tianxia Society wants him dead, it''s almost like they''re doing us a favor,¡± another membermented as they walked into the Life and Death Hall.

    ¡°Is this real? Why is Chen Fan entering a life-and-death battle with Tianxia Society¡¯s people?¡±

    ¡°I heard the Tianxia Society members forced him.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is dead meat. Tianxia Society must have nned this out.¡±

    Mu Chen¡¯s party of five caught wind of this matter and rushed over.

    They didn¡¯t mock Chen Fan like the others. After all, Chen Fan had saved their lives in the northwest region.

    Since returning to the sect, they had made significant progress, reaching the peak stage of the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    Chen Fan strode into the Life and Death Hall, confidently ascending onto the life-and-death arena with a firm stomp. He gazed at Song Yang and the others and said indifferently, ¡°Who''s up first?¡±

 Chapter 212 - Pretending to be Injured

    <h4>Chapter 212 - Pretending to be Injured</h4>

    ¡°Who''s up first?¡± said Chen Fan, looking down at Song Yang¡¯s group coldly.

    ¡°This guy is too arrogant!¡± shouted Shen Qing, a ck-robed youth, and flew onto the stage.

    He was at the peak of the second level. He released his aura, and a pressure enveloped the surroundings. Ferocious killing intent glinted in his eyes.

    ¡°Little bastard, this day next year will be your death anniversary. I¡¯ll rip your head out of your torso and showcase the prestige of the Tianxia Society!¡±

    Shen Qing¡¯s voice was cold and brutal, his tone confident.

    Although Chen Fan had defeated Yu Xiong with a single punch, thetter had just reached the second level. So, he couldn¡¯t bepared to Shen Qing.

    umting experience over five to six years in this realm had forged a deep foundation, making him considerably stronger than ordinary martial artists at the same level.

    ¡°Then, don''t keep me waiting. Make your move.¡±

    Chen Fan''s lips curled into a smile, his gaze icy.

    ¡°I will butcher you like a chicken!¡± With those words, Shen Qing''s open palm unleashed a tornado that flew toward Chen Fan like a stone pir.

    <i>Whirr...</i>

    This tornado represented a wind-attributed cultivation technique. It could uproot massive trees and tear them into bits.

    ¡°Shen Qing used the Tornado Cultivation Technique so soon. He wants to kill Chen Fan in one move!¡±

    The crowd was shocked.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    The crowd anticipated Chen Fan being swept into the tornado and torn apart. However, he coldly snorted, stomped his foot on the ground, and flew forward like a bullet.

    A faint golden light emanated from Chen Fan, which seemingly made him impervious to the tornado''s wind des. They could only dissipate after striking him with a nging noise.

    ¡°What a terrifying physique! Even though the generated wind des aren¡¯t the strongest, they areparable in strength to upper-dirt tier or even quasi-profound tier martial skills! They fell on Chen Fan like they were hacking at steel. How terrifying! How exactly did he cultivate his physique?¡±

    ¡°He probably practiced a body cultivation technique before. That¡¯s why he can kill others with higher cultivation levels than him.¡±

    ¡°Regardless of his flesh''s strength, it''s useless against the tornado''s ripping power. He''s practically inviting death!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Despite being amazed by Chen Fan''s physique, the nearby crowd assumed the oue wouldn''t change. However, their expressions suddenly froze.

    Chen Fan arrived before the tornado and unleashed his cultivation. The tornado, which could shred ordinary second-level Yuanfu realm experts, vanished without a trace.

    He clenched one of his fists, and the air within a hundred steps abruptly copsed inwards, converging at his palm as if drawn by an invisible force.

    It was only a simple grab, but many disciples at the first level felt their primeval force going berserk. It almost went out of their control and broke away from their primeval vessel; it seemed to want to go to Chen Fan¡¯s palm.

    Their faces now carried astonishment. They quickly channeled their cultivation to suppress their unruly primeval force, casting pale nces at Chen Fan.

    The air of the surrounding hundred steps seemed to be trapped in Chen Fan¡¯s hand. Hepressed it violently, then rubbed it.

    Immediately, thepressed air turned into a high-speed rotating air bomb, and he threw it at his opponent.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Explosions resonated through space as the spinning air bomb shot forth. Shen Qing''s expression shifted drastically, his mind buzzing, and his qi and blood stirred restlessly.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Shen Qing hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to dispel his tornado easily and even strike back with a stronger attack.

    The spinning air bomb shooting toward him was like a crashing star, wanting to turn him into powder.

    As he decided to stop holding back, Shen Qing''s aura skyrocketed. His arms danced, conjuring fierce winds that howled and swept, making the entire arena tremble.

    ¡°Tornado Twist!¡± Shen Qing yelled.

    Ten tornadoes fiercely whirled, tearing through the air and rushing out wildly, shredding everything in their path.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof!</i>

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s spinning air bomb was like an indestructible rock, easily shattering the foremost tornadoes with an unstoppable momentum.

    ¡°No!¡±

    Endless fear immediately appeared on Shen Qing¡¯s face.

    His strongest attack proved powerless against the spinning air bomb. It tore apart everything and appeared before him. The destructive force erupted, enveloping Shen Qing in an instant.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Song Yang and the other Tianxia Society members¡¯ expressions immediately sank.

    A youth in the early stage of the third level raised his voice and rushed into the arena. His cultivation and strength erupted in an attempt to save Shen Qing.

    However, when his force descended to suppress the spinning air bomb''s power, only a meat paste remained.

    ¡°Ahhh, you bastard! You¡¯re courting death! You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    The youth realized he was toote and became enraged. His killing intent soared, and the temperature plummeted.

    Tianxia Society had intended to publicly execute Chen Fan. How dare he kill their people?

    ¡°What are you yelling for? Since you¡¯re up here, then don¡¯t bother getting down!¡± Chen Fan looked at this person icily.

    This youth, Yan Qi, felt his killing intent grow even thicker. He growled in a low voice, ¡°Little bastard, you dare kill our Tianxia Society¡¯s people? You deserve to die! Damn it! I¡¯m going to rip you into pieces!¡±

    Song Yang and the others'' gazes turned frigid. They hadn''t expected Chen Fan, a first-level Yuanfu realm cultivator, to kill Shen Qing in a single move. In their eyes, he truly deserved death.

    ¡°That¡¯s funny. After entering the life-and-death arena, you think you will live just because you¡¯re a society member? Forget Shen Qing and think about who will save you!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°Damn it! Die!¡± Yan Qi shouted and sent a punch sting toward Chen Fan. ¡°Meteor Fist!¡±

    His cultivation erupted. A dazzling silhouette of a fist broke through the air and sted out like a meteor crashing onto the earth, crushing everything.

    ¡°This is a top-ranked lower-profound tier martial skill! How powerful!¡±

    ¡°This punch should kill Chen Fan... right?¡±

    The crowd felt Yan Qi¡¯s furious strike, their hearts trembling.

    The gap between the peak stage of the second level and the third level was vast. With this attack alone, Shen Qing would have had no hope of surviving against Yan Qi.

    ¡°Wind Demon Sword Light!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze darkened. Wielding the Autumn y, a cold sword light shed out, shooting toward the fist silhouette whirring at him, colliding violently.

    If Chen Fan had erupted with full strength, he could have killed Yan Qi with a simple finger flick.

    However, Chu Tiange was among the crowd below the arena. He would have noticed something, and it would have been bad for him if word of it had reached Duan Jingtian. It didn¡¯t match his n of keeping a low profile.

    ¡°Hmph, you got it easy!¡±

    Thinking of this, Chen Fan withdrew thirty percent of his strength.

    The sword light was instantly obliterated, and the residual force sent Chen Fan flying backward. Fresh blood seeped from the corner of his mouth.

 Chapter 213 - Who Can Save You?

    <h4>Chapter 213 - Who Can Save You?</h4>

    ¡°Woah, Chen Fan is injured and throwing up blood.¡±

    ¡°I was wondering how strong he is! Chen Fan struck Shen Qing with all his strength while he was underestimating Chen Fan. He gained the upper hand by fluke and killed Shen Qing with one move. Yan Qi''s attack exposed Chen Fan''s true strength immediately.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! He could defeat Shen Qing because Shen Qing underestimated him, giving him an opportunity.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Chen Fan spat up blood and retreated, the crowd began to gossip.

    Initially impressed when Chen Fan defeated Shen Qing in one move, they assumed he was much stronger. However, when Yan Qi struck, he only used one punch to smash Chen Fan¡¯s sword light.

    Not only that, the remnant force struck Chen Fan and made him spew blood. The crowd immediately realized that they had overestimated him.

    This revtion suggested that Shen Qing''s defeat was due to his carelessness, allowing Chen Fan to capitalize on the opportunity and strike him down in one blow. They now believed that Chen Fan was as strong as Shen Qing.

    However, this was all a performance by Chen Fan for the onlookers.

    He had wanted to use fifty percent of his strength, but he ultimately decided to use only twenty percent in his sh to keep up the act.

    Had he used fifty percent of his strength, he would have split Yan Qi in half with that sh.

    As for the remnant force from Yan Qi¡¯s punch, it hadn¡¯t actually even hurt him. He had spat blood to fool the crowd.

    ¡°Little bastard, surviving my punch is an achievement. However, you¡¯ve insulted our Tianxia Society repeatedly, so you have to die. Repent in hell!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s show had also fooled Yan Qi, so his eyes shone resplendently. His aura became even fiercer, rushing forward.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    Yan Qi¡¯s aura surged as his fists blurred, bombarding from a distance. Fist silhouettes filled the space, surrounding Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Amidst the repeated booming sounds, air currents surged in all directions. The onlookers anticipated Chen Fan''s defeat.

    ¡°He¡¯s finished! Chen Fan is done for!¡±

    ¡°There''s no way he survives unless he advanced to the second level!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Watching the densely packed fist silhouettes, the crowd below the arena recoiled.

    Yan Qi revealed an icy smile, having exerted ny percent of his strength; Chen Fan seemed doomed.

    Yet, as the crowd waited for Chen Fan''s corpse to appear, a radiant sword light unexpectedly shed from the midst of those fist silhouettes.

    Immediately, the rain-like fist silhouettes shattered and were reduced to nothing.

    ¡°Die!¡± An ice-cold voice rang out simultaneously.

    An even more radiant sword light swept out, whistling. It was indestructible and devastating, tearing everything in its path. It carried a destructive aura, annihting all obstacles.

    ¡°This is bad!¡±

    Yan Qi¡¯s cold smile immediately stiffened. His eyes shot wide open, not expecting such a change to happen.

    The sword sh was like lightning, catching him off guard and with no time to evade.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Blood sttered, and an arm went flying.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A wretched cry escaped Yan Qi¡¯s lips.

    Although he had avoided Chen Fan¡¯s fatal sh, the cost was losing an arm.

    Yan Qi quickly retreated. Half his body was dyed red with his blood, having not only lost an arm but also half of his shoulder.

    If he hadn¡¯t tried his best to turn his body at the critical moment, that attack would have split him in half.

    ¡°How is... how is that possible...¡±

    Yan Qi¡¯s expression was extremely twisted, looking hideous, like a devil. He stared fixedly at Chen Fan, his pupils expanding rapidly.

    Not only did he fail to kill Chen Fan, but thetter also neutralized his attack and severed his arm.

    Moreover, Chen Fan had advanced to the second level of the Yuanfu realm.

    The Life and Death Hall fellpletely silent.

    Everyone was stunned beyond words.

    They were shocked that Chen Fan didn¡¯t die!

    They were shocked that Chen Fan had advanced to the second level at the crucial moment.

    Chen Fan looked at Yan Qi indifferently and grinned.

    ¡°No need for astonishment. If not for your untimely interruption, I would have already advanced to the second level. Betterte than never, I guess,¡± said Chen Fan to give everyone a reasonable exnation.

    Chen Fan had conveyed that he had been on the verge of a breakthrough when they confronted him at his residence. He had to postpone it due to them. Now, faced with a life-and-death situation, he had swiftly made the breakthrough, thereby enhancing his strength and allowing his sh to dismantle Yan Qi¡¯s attack.

    ¡°Now... die!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t give Yan Qi a chance to catch his breath. He could now kill everyone from this Tianxia Society group.

    He disappeared from the spot, instantly arriving in front of Yan Qi.

    Autumn y traced a perfect arc as it descended fiercely toward Yan Qi¡¯s neck.

    ¡°Meteorite Impact!¡±

    Yan Qi gritted his teeth and revolved his cultivation. His primeval vessel materialized above him, fueling his primeval force wildly and increasing his strength.

    He struck out violently with his arm, and this attack surpassed even his previous one with both arms.

    Yan Qi was giving his hundred percent.

    Chen Fan''s breakthrough had significantly boosted his strength, which was evident from the previous sh that dismantled Yan Qi¡¯s fist silhouettes.

    With only one arm, he was severely weakened, realizing that anything less than his full strength could result in Chen Fan easily delivering a fatal sh.

    However, it was useless even if he fought with all his might.

    The momentum of his punches was as fragile as tofu under Chen Fan¡¯s sword.

    Fierce and sharp sword qi swept out, descending on Yan Qi.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Sent flying by the sh, Yan Qi bore a long and deep gash on his chest, blood dripping ominously.

    ¡°A second one!¡±

    Chen Fan pressed forward relentlessly, the sunlight reflecting off his sword. Yan Qi felt a chill deep in his bones.

    ¡°Zhao Gao, save me!¡±

    Yan Qi retreated in a hurry, simultaneously yelling at the top of his lungs.

    ¡°Little bastard, stop!¡±

    Below the arena, Zhao Gao responded to Yan Qi''s plea, flying up onto the stage. He unleashed a powerful aura mid-air, creating a wind storm. Thrusting his hand toward Chen Fan, he struck with the force of Mt Tai bearing down on him.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    A cold light shed fiercely in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. His sword light radiated, forming a fiercely dazzling cross that shattered Zhao Gao¡¯s attack. The residual force cascaded onto Zhao Gao, sending him tumbling backward to the ground.

    ¡°Now, who will save you?¡±

    Advancing, Chen Fan stepped on Yan Qi''s chest, breaking a few ribs and prompting him to spit out blood. When the tip of Chen Fan¡¯s sword pressed against Yan Qi¡¯s throat, the cold steel made him freeze instantly.

 Chapter 214 - Hand of Death

    <h4>Chapter 214 - Hand of Death</h4>

    ¡°Now, who will save you?¡±

    Chen Fan''s voice, icy andmanding, echoed in Yan Qi''s ear, akin to the god of death pronouncing his imminent death.

    ¡°No! Don¡¯t kill me! I admit defeat! I admit defeat! I beg you, please spare me!¡± Yan Qi, consumed by fear, pleaded desperately.

    ¡°Admit defeat? Begging for mercy?¡±

    Chen Fan thought he had heard the funniest joke in the world.

    Yan Qi wanted to kill Chen Fan, but since he couldn¡¯t win and was at death¡¯s door, he was begging for mercy. Was there such a good deal in the world?

    ¡°You forgot where we are? This is the life-and-death arena. Is that even possible?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice was still icy.

    ¡°Is this for real? Chen Fan¡¯s sword strike actually forced Zhao Gao back. He now holds Yan Qi¡¯s life in his hands.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder he dared to challenge Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. To push Zhao Gao back, he is indeed an unusual character. He should be proud even in death.¡±

    The nearby crowd whispered among themselves.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was only in the early stage of the second level, while Zhao Gao was at the peak of the third level. Thetter could be considered a top-tier expert among the inner sect elite disciples. Those in the same cultivation realm weren¡¯t a match for him, even if they joined forces.

    The disparity didn''t deter Chen Fan from showcasing his prowess, earning the respect of those witnessing the spectacle.

    Zhao Gao¡¯s expression became hideous when he heard the crowd¡¯s discussion.

    He was two small realms above Chen Fan. And Zhao Gao¡¯sst attack, though casual, had enough strength to kill ordinary experts at the second level.

    Yet, it failed to even injure Chen Fan. Moreover, his sword strike had thrown Zhao Gao back. This failure,pounded by the shame of being unable to save Yan Qi, frustrated Zhao Gao.

    ¡°Just try to kill him if you dare. I¡¯ll make your life worse than death!¡±

    Zhao Gao stared at the sword in Chen Fan¡¯s hand with a sinister gaze.

    ¡°Please let me go,¡± Yan Qi begged, trembling.

    ¡°Let you go? Okay, imagine this. Would you have let me go if I were the one on the ground?¡± Chen Fan''s sword shed, blood sprayed, and Yan Qi met a swift death.

    <i>What guts!</i>

    The crowd couldn''t help but internally cheer as Chen Fan, unmoved by Zhao Gao''s threats, decisively ended Yan Qi''s life¡ªan action that further humiliated Zhao Gao.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Zhao Gao¡¯s aura erupted suddenly, sending out a bone-chilling cold.

    Chen Fan''s tant disregard for his warnings, slitting Yan Qi''s throat in front of everyone, was a profound insult¡ªone even worse than pushing him back.

    ¡°You¡¯ve seeded in angering me, you little bastard. You¡¯ll regret this. You¡¯ll regret provoking me. Prepare to meet your end. I¡¯ll make you scream so loud the entire sect will be shaken!¡± said Zhao Gao viciously.

    The crowd thought Chen Fan was in for a bad time.

    Even if Chen Fan had spared Yan Qi, he still would have died, albeit without the torment. However, by infuriating Zhao Gao, he had set the stage for a far more brutal fate¡ªa fate filled with torture and suffering worse than death.

    The mere thought of Chen Fan''s agonizing screams echoing throughout the inner sect, a result of the torture he would suffer at Zhao Gao''s hands, sent shivers down the onlookers'' spines.

    ¡°Then what are you doing, standing down there? Get up here!¡±

    Yet, when Chen Fan''s response came, it defied expectations. His overbearing and indifferent voice resonated from the life-and-death arena, challenging the crowd''s anticipation.

    The crowd thought that Chen Fan wanted to disy arrogance in the face of his impending doom.

    Zhao Gao''s expression contorted through various shades of humiliation, an experience unparalleled since he joined the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Since you want to die sooner, I¡¯ll grant your wish!¡±

    Zhao Gao''s hatred burned fiercely. With a fierce stomp, he ascended like a roc, wings spread, onto the life-and-death arena,unching himself at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The air stirred as Zhao Gao unleashed a palm strike without holding back.

    In mid-air, the force in his palm surged and roared, creating waves that rippled through the arena, making it quiver.

    ¡°Wind Demon Blood Rain!¡±

    ¡°Wind Demon Grotto Heaven!¡±

    Chen Fan wielded his sword. His primeval force fused with the sword light, forming a terrifyingly lethal strike. It flew out, producing sharp, ear-piercing whistling noises.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A powerful explosion boomed, and a fierce wind swept out, along with the qi going berserk and storming out.

    ¡°Hand of Death!¡±

    With a cold shout, Zhao Gao shot out of the storm.

    ck primeval force surged around him like a ghostly aura. His palm traced ominous circles, conjuring a colossal ck seal exuding an eerie aura.

    The ck palm brought up boundless gloomy wind and ghostly qi, breaking through the air and rushing straight toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Heavens! Hand of Death, Death Descent! That¡¯s the move from the middle-profound tier martial skill!¡±

    ¡°Even if it doesn''t kill Chen Fan, he''ll be gravely injured and be unable to counter Zhao Gao¡¯s attacks.¡±

    ¡°Hand of Death has sealed Chen Fan¡¯s fate.¡±

    ¡°Zhao Gao won''t end it quickly; he''ll relish torturing him. Brace yourselves for Chen Fan''s screams.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd saw a ck palm seal and sensed the ghostly aura. It swept forth with terrifying force like the hand of the heavens, descending upon Chen Fan.

    Violent air currents surged, creating a whirlwind that stifled breathing.

    At the peak of the third level, Zhao Gao possessed great strength and cultivated a high-tier cultivation technique. Moreover, he had just executed a mid-profound tier martial skill. Not many disciples in the same cultivation level were a match for him in the entire sect.

    Despite Chen Fan''s prior victories over Shen Qing and Yan Qi, the gap in strength between them and Zhao Gao was insurmountable. The onlookers had little hope that Chen Fan could reverse the dire situation.

    Noticing Zhao Gao¡¯s palm, Song Yang¡¯s face changed from an icy and ugly expression into a faint smile.

    Shen Qing and Yan Qi¡¯s deaths were unexpected; with Zhao Gao taking action, nothing could go wrong.

    An invisible force descended upon Chen Fan in the arena, rendering him immobile, as if an unseen hand was gripping him.

    Though momentarily taken aback, Chen Fan recognized that Zhao Gao was strong. Still, dealing with Zhao Gao was a trivial matter for him, requiring just a single move.

    <i>I can¡¯t use my full strength. How troublesome.</i>

    Chen Fan sighed in his heart.

    If it weren¡¯t for him being apprehensive of Duan Jingtian, he would have smacked Zhao Gao to death in one palm strike, like swatting a mosquito.

    However, he had no choice but to y his part and continue the act now.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan roared, his aura boiled fiercely, activating his second-level Yuanfu realm¡¯s power to the limit.

    Simultaneously, he activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, causing his stature to grow a meter taller.

    His limbs now seemingly had steel tendons and iron bones. The image of three heads and six arms appeared, dancing wildly like a group of demons, as he punched out violently.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The explosive sounds reverberated through the air as Chen Fan''s terrifying fist force collided with the Hand of Death, creating a continuous series of deafening explosions.

 Chapter 215 - Split in Two

    <h4>Chapter 215 - Split in Two</h4>

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, it¡¯s Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist ranks among the top mid-profound martial skills, known for its fierce and explosive moves that relentlessly press forward. Its invincible will shakes heaven and earth, showcasing tremendous strength. Chen Fan¡¯s formidable physique willplement it, enhancing its power by thirty percent."

    ¡°The mere sound of the explosions is disturbing my qi and my blood flow. What a terrifying collision!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd watched wide-eyed as the intense collision on the arena unfolded like Mars crashing into Earth, their minds and their viscera shaking.

    The next move from Hand of Death, Twisted Death, descended. It was like the god of death from hell appeared in the mortal world, its scythe of death descending and reaping all life.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, on the other hand, was ferocious, obliterating everything in its path.

    The loud explosions from the collision rang endlessly, resembling non-stop cannonball sts. A torrent of qi surged, and the space stirred ceaselessly as if provoked by the wrath of the heavens.

    ¡°Hand of Death, shatter!¡± Zhao Gao shouted, his aura rising.

    His primeval vessel appeared above his head, and his rolling primeval force ignited. The ck primeval force around him erupted, increasing the strength of his Hand of Death.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The deafening noises rang non-stop.

    A terrifying wind storm and rampaging qi swept chaotically across the arena, making some disciples near the edge lose their bnce.

    As Zhao Gao unleashed his strength, the Hand of Death enveloped the area and pressed down. The space squeaked under the unbearable pressure, and it also crushed strands of force from the ferocious punches one after another.

    ¡°Zhao Gao has the advantage!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s pupils shrunk.

    As expected, Zhao Gao was stronger. He had used his peak, third-level strength to unleash Death Descent.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God''s Strength!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, Undefeated Against Heaven!¡± yelled Chen Fan desperately, making his face flush red to show his struggle.

    His three heads and six arms struck out violently, and his indomitable will shook heaven and earth. His attacks¡¯ power went up another notch, resisting the descent of the Hand of Death.

    ¡°He withstood it! Chen Fan withstood it!¡±

    ¡°This guy is really full of surprises! Zhao Gao is already using his full strength but still hasn¡¯t defeated his opponent!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes shone wildly, their minds shaking.

    The strength and tenacity Chen Fan had shown had truly left them staring wide-eyed and mouths agape.

    Below the arena, Song Yang narrowed his eyes, a cold light shining in the slits. Even Zhao Gao had failed to overwhelm Chen Fan.

    Chu Tiange was also looking at Chen Fan with his eyes narrowed. The mysterious masked man shed in his mind.

    <i>Is it him?</i>

    Chu Tiange entertained this thought briefly before shaking his head in denial. After all, the mysterious, masked man was about as strong as him.

    If Chen Fan were that masked man, he could have smacked Zhao Gao to death with a palm strike.

    ¡°It can¡¯t be him!¡±

    Chu Tiange¡¯s eyes widened, shining.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Zhao Gao, this is all you amount to!¡±

    Chen Fan struck out frantically. Fist silhouettes shot like meteorites, shaking the space and bringing forth endless explosions, bursting out with terrifying power.

    ¡°Damnable little bastard, how dare you look down on me! Break!¡±

    Zhao Gao was so angry he could vomit blood.

    He had thought he would only need a single move to defeat Chen Fan, but reality had given him a tight p.

    Chen Fan¡¯s ridicule was driving him mad.

    He bit the tip of his tongue and spat out a mouthful of blood mist, infusing it into the Hand of Death. Immediately, the Hand of Death shook, glowing with crimson luster.

    ¡°Hand of Bloody Death!¡± Zhao Gao shouted furiously.

    The Hand of Blood Death immediately erupted with a terrifying force, descending with an unstoppable momentum and smashing everything into smithereens.

    ¡°Hahahaha, little bastard, you should be proud of yourself to die under my Hand of Bloody Death!¡± Zhao Gaoughed out loud, seeing he had finally crushed Chen Fan.

    The crowd¡¯s pupils also shrunk violently.

    <i>Is it over?</i>

    <i>Zhao Gao won in the end, as expected.</i>

    ¡°Is that right?¡± An icy cold voice suddenly resounded.

    The Hand of Bloody Death that had smashed down on the arena was lifted slightly, and explosions boomed continuously.

    ¡°Shatter!¡±

    The crowd heard a snapping noise after that shout, and the Hand of Bloody Death flew up with a boom.

    Spider-web-like cracks spread on it, and it finally shattered into countless pieces with a poof.

    A primeval vessel floated above Chen Fan. His primeval force was burning within, and blood dribbled from the corners of his mouth. Even so, his gaze was fierce. His illusionary heads and arms danced wildly, shaking the space.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Zhao Gao was stunned.

    ¡°You what? Get down!¡± Chen Fan shouted as he stomped his foot. He vanished and instantly appeared above Zhao Gao.

    He stomped again, like a deity trampling from the sky, and Zhao Gao plummeted sharply and crashed heavily onto the arena with a boom.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Like a meteorite, Chen Fan descended and struck out with a punch, creating multipleyers of ripples in the space. The air around his fist boomed violently, setting off circles of white air currents.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Like a roar from the heavenly king, the sounds of explosions rolled through the sky.

    Zhao Gao¡¯s head spun from the blow. As he crawled to his feet, a terrifying force descended from above, imprisoning him and rendering him motionless. The aura of death loomed suddenly.

    ¡°No!¡± Zhao Gao roared in shock and fear.

    ¡°Sinful bastard, you dare?!¡±

    Below the arena, Song Yang¡¯s expression also sank. He couldn¡¯t hold it in any longer and unleashed his cultivation before delivering a palm strike to Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Song Yang was at the fourth level. His attack made the winds and the clouds roll back, toppled the mountains, and overturned the seas, bursting forth with inexplicable might.

    Chen Fan dared not be reckless, facing Song Yang¡¯s palm strike. He turned around mid-air and redirected the punch meant for Zhao Gao toward Song Yang¡¯s palm strike.

    With a loud boom, a storm of qi swept out, and Chen Fan flew back, spewing blood.

    However, a ruthless light shone in his eyes as he shed out with his sword. A terrifying sword light shot toward Zhao Gao.

    ¡°Thinking of saving him? Not happening!¡±

    Song Yang raised his eyebrows in shock, and his hair stood on end. ¡°You dare?!¡±

    He had never expected Chen Fan to retaliate even after getting injured by his attack. His anger reached its peak, and he flew up onto the arena.

    Even so, he was a step toote.

    With a poof, the sword light cut through Zhao Gao, hot blood shooting into the air. Zhao Gao was split in two.

 Chapter 216 - Song Yang Strikes

    <h4>Chapter 216 - Song Yang Strikes</h4>

    Zhao Gao, an expert at the peak of the third level, had been split in half!

    The entire Life and Death Hall plunged into a deathly silence. The crowd stared in disbelief at the teenager whonded on the ground with a stagger, their hearts profoundly shaken.

    An expert at the fourth level, Song Yang, had tried to save Zhao Gao but failed.

    This teenager was too ferocious.

    ¡°Little bastard, I¡¯ll rip you apart!¡±

    With an icy re, Song Yangnded on the ground, and his face contorted into a savage expression. His aura stirred the heavens, and his killing intent manifested as a whistling cold wind that sent shivers down everyone¡¯s spines.

    Chen Fan had ruthlessly in someone Song Yang had wanted to save¡ªa tant p in the face.

    Chen Fan purposely spewed out another mouthful of fresh blood, looking ghastly pale. However, he stared at Song Yang ruthlessly and said, ¡°Song Yang, don¡¯t forget our agreement. You''re not among the five opponents. Why did you intervene? Are you trying to break the deal?"

    ¡°You damnable little bastard, what if I¡¯m breaking the deal? Who will even vouch for your words? You''ve dared to kill three members of our society. If I decree your death, you''ll meet your end!" Song Yang growled, his voice low and devilish, clearly taken aback by the unexpected turn of events.

    Weren¡¯t they supposed to be the ones humiliating Chen Fan after he had lost and was powerless to resist?

    Then, why had Zhao Gao and the others died at the hands of Chen Fan? Why had even Song Yang¡¯s attempt to save one failed?

    ¡°Hahahaha, howughable. We are in the life-and-death arena of the Life and Death Hall. Such oues are inevitable. Did you honestly believe that members of your society are exempt from death?¡±

    ¡°Yes! Life and Death Hall rules are there to restrain weaklings like you. They can¡¯t do a thing to Tianxia Society!¡± Song Yang said coldly.

    He looked at Chen Fan contemptuously.

    <i>Did you think you could live just because you brought up the rules?</i>

    <i>Did you think you could walk down from the arena alive after killing three of our members? Impossible!</i>

    ¡°Hoho, how tyrannical, to disregard even the sect rules.¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled coldly and said, ¡°I never expected you to honor your words anyway. People from the Tianxia Society are inherently unreliable. I''d sooner believe a sow can climb a tree than trust you to keep a promise.¡±

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    Song Yang flew into a rage. His aura erupted wildly, and his clothing fluttered fiercely and noisily. An intense pressure spread out, making the onlookers¡¯ hearts tremble.

    <i>Hum!</i>

    Song Yang struck out with a palm. A fierce wind suddenly rose, his primeval force attacking like the tide.

    A massive aura enveloped the area, filling the space with thousands of palm silhouettes. The silhouettes gathered, forming a huge mountain and plummeting toward the enemy. The robustness of the qi could split a wide river open.

    Song Yang¡¯s sinister voice rang out once more. ¡°Little bastard, you killed our members and insulted us. Today, not even the gods can save you. Your fresh blood and life will atone for your sins!¡±

    Chen Fan faced the mountainous primeval force,yered and bearing down with formidable pressure. The explosive impact ruptured the air, showcasing the substantial power gap between the third and the fourth level.

    ¡°Nine Swords of Wind Demon!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan shouted as his primeval force spewed out like the tide.

    His three heads and six arms worked in unison to unleash ferocious attacks in unison. Simultaneously, his sword hummed, releasing sword light that filled the space with whistling sword qi, cutting through everything in its path.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Immediately, a series of explosions rang out.

    ¡°Explosive Qi Pill!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly cried out. His palm turned into a blur and pped his lips, seemingly forcing a pill down his throat.

    As he activated an illusory primeval vessel in his dantian, immense power erupted, propelling his aura to the peak of the second level instantly.

    ¡°Wind Demon Shocking Cloud sh!¡±

    Chen Fan took a fierce stance and swung his sword. The chilling sword light descended violently, its tide-like sword qi stirring ceaselessly.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    As the ferocious streaks of sword light pierced the air, they tore through the hundreds and thousands of palm silhouettes as if slicing through paper. Song Yang''s attacks crumbled, unable to withstand the onught, while the relentless sword light continued its unyielding advance.

    ¡°Damn you, little bastard! You took an Explosive Qi Pill!¡± Song Yang shouted angrily, his expression turning darker.

    However, his hands didn¡¯t stop moving in the slightest. He hurled another palm strike, channeling all his primeval force to create a palm seal, its size akin to a door.

    As it took form, the colossal primeval force palm seal exuded a regal aura, shimmering with a golden luster. After a momentary tremor, it explosively shot forth.

    <i>ng!</i>

    When the sword light fell on the golden palm seal, it seemed to have encountered a steel wall. A sharp and ear-piercing sound of ng rang out, along with sparks flying everywhere, like a firework disy.

    ¡°Explosive Qi Pill! Chen Fan consumed an Explosive Qi Pill!¡±

    ¡°Looks like he only agreed to Song Yang¡¯s challenge because he was well prepared. With his cultivation and strength skyrocketing, there was a chance he might not be at a disadvantage against Song Yang.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not for certain! It depends on whether he can defeat Song Yang before the medicinal efficacy of the Explosive Qi Pill runs out. He¡¯d be in danger if he can¡¯t defeat Song Yang before then.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd murmured among themselves.

    They had thought there wouldn¡¯t be any suspense with Song Yang taking action. However, Chen Fan hade unexpectedly well-prepared. Now.

    ¡°Glorious King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan strode forward fiercely on the arena like a tiger.

    He used an Explosive Qi Pill to mask the powering from his illusory primeval vessel. The berserk power inside him was surging like the raging rivers.

    The three heads and six arms struck out continuously. The nine powerful styles shook the space, with each punch and palm strike wielding enough power to split mountains and part seas.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Song Yang¡¯s gigantic golden palm burst under Chen Fan¡¯s bombardment. Terrifying qi currents rolled out, rushing toward Song Yang.

    White waves of qi surged, creating tumultuous air currents.

    ¡°Glorious King¡¯s Fist! Undefeated King!¡±

    Chen Fan struck freely, the primeval force arms behind him swinging wildly.

    The nine great styles of Undefeated King¡¯s Fist worked together, nearly turning the entire floor over.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    The relentless attacks, with enough momentum to topple mountains and overturn seas, overwhelmed Song Yang. The protective primeval force around him shook violently and exploded. The shockwave pushed him back, making him roar furiously.

    Despite being at the fourth level, he found himself at Chen Fan¡¯s mercy.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Heaven and Earth Pagoda, suppress it!¡± Song Yang shouted angrily.

    Primeval force surged from him, uniting in the air to form a pagoda with nineyers. This primeval force pagoda emitted a grand aura, seemingly capable of suppressing all demons.

    ¡°Heaven and Earth Pagoda, Great Heaven and Earth Cultivation Technique! That¡¯s an upper-profound tier cultivation technique!¡±

    The onlooking crowd¡¯s expressions changed drastically.

 Chapter 217 - Feng Tianxia

    <h4>Chapter 217 - Feng Tianxia</h4>

    ¡°You! I¡¯ll kill you!¡±

    Facing Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious attacks, Song Yang fell back repeatedly. He almost couldn¡¯t believe Chen Fan was suppressing him.

    Despite his long-standing pride and self-perceived superiority, he found himself yielding to someone at the second level. The frustration was unbearable, and he recognized this was the start of a lifelong grudge.

    ¡°Heaven and Earth Pagoda!¡±

    As he roared furiously, robust primeval force erupted from his head, rapidly intertwining in the air to form a nineyered pagoda.

    The pagoda seemed to contain countless demons, and their agonized cries resonated amid the raging mes.

    ¡°You''ve pushed me this far¡ªa grievous sin that will stain me forever. You shall no longer live in this world.

    ¡°I¡¯ll suppress you, kill you, and extract your soul to be eternally tormented within this pagoda. No pleas for mercy, no release through death. You''re the first witness to my Great Heaven and Earth Cultivation Technique.¡±

    Song Yang''s expression contorted hideously as he maintained the pagoda in hand, twirling it in the air. The wails of the demons and spirits became even more miserable and piercing to the ear as if the demons were wing at the hearts of the onlookers.

    ¡°The upper-profound tier martial art, Great Heaven and Earth Cultivation Technique! It¡¯s not our sect¡¯s martial art, but the ultimate technique passed down within the Song n.¡±

    ¡°The Song n can be considered a prestigious n even in the Great Chu Empire¡¯s imperial city, with over a thousand years of heritage and rich foundations. Legend has it that mastering the Great Heaven and Earth Cultivation Technique allows one to materialize the Heaven and Earth Pagoda, wielding boundless power to subdue all.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan actually forced Song Yang to use the Heaven and Earth Pagoda. I¡¯m afraid he won¡¯t be able to resist any longer.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    An unusual light shone in some expert disciples¡¯ eyes, gaining a newfound admiration for Chen Fan.

    His continuous surprises had kept them on their toes since the outset.

    Chen Fan''s actions, including the killing of three individuals, had stirred Song Yang to break his promise and confront him directly. Surprisingly, even he was pushed back and had to unleash his pagoda.

    Amidst the turmoil, Chu Tiange remainedposed, viewing the situation as a matter that could be resolved with a single stroke.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡±

    A sudden cold shout interrupted the escting conflict as Song Yang pushed the Heaven and Earth Pagoda to its limits.

    Wang Hui, standing proudly in the air, pointed a finger. He summoned a sharp sword that swiftly descended upon the Heaven and Earth Pagoda and destroyed it.

    <i>Crash!</i>

    The entire Heaven and Earth Pagoda copsed.

    ¡°Elder Wang Hui!¡±

    ¡°Elder Wang Hui showed himself and made a move.¡±

    Wang Hui''s intervention took the onlookers by surprise.

    Song Yang spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood, staring resentfully at Wang Hui. He roared, ¡°Wang Hui, what do you mean by this? You dare attack me?!¡±

    ¡°Hmph, Song Yang, members from your society have broken the rules repeatedly and disregarded the Life and Death Hall¡¯s rules. What audacity!

    ¡°I won¡¯t argue with you about that on ount of Feng Tianxia. Get lost from here and focus on cultivating. If you dare make another move, I¡¯ll kill you on the spot!¡±

    Wang Hui¡¯s icy voice resounded, sending a shiver in everyone present.

    ¡°Hoho, Elder Wang Hui, are you not already breaking the rules by intervening?¡±

    Suddenly, another coldughter rang out.

    With a rustling of the wind, a figure materialized¡ªa man with a slender, sword-like brow and jade-like translucent skin, exuding a dignified aura. Yet, his narrow, wolf-like eyes revealed an upromising personality that tolerated no defiance.

    This kind of person would often aplish great things.

    ¡°Who is he?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at this man, narrowing his eyes, as he sensed an overwhelming and oppressive force akin to an ancient divine mountain standing before him.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia!¡± said Wang Hui as his eyes also narrowed.

    Feng Tianxia was the leader of the Tianxia Society, a holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect with an unparalleled cultivation level.

    ¡°Heavens, Senior Brother Feng Tianxia showed up in person.¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t Senior Brother Feng Tianxia be a holy disciple ten years ago? I wonder how strong he is now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen a holy disciple in person. It is my good fortune to see Senior Brother Feng Tianxia today. He does live up to his reputation, indeed. Even if he isn¡¯t doing anything, I am having difficulty breathing.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The onlookers broke out into amotion, seeing Feng Tianxia.

    The disciples of Spring Autumn Inner Sect were divided into four ranks: inner court, elite, core, and holy.

    The holy disciples, however, were elusive figures rarely seen in person, their existence known mostly through rumors. Witnessing Feng Tianxia, a holy disciple, in the flesh left the spectators exhrated.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia, when did your Tianxia Society start to force others to join you? Attacking those who refuse, seeking help when outmatched, and now, even the Alliance Leader shows up. Quite the spectacle,¡± Wang Hui mocked coldly.

    Chen Fan was also shocked.

    He didn¡¯t expect this person to be Feng Tianxia, the leader of the Tianxia Society and a holy disciple.

    The sheer aura emanating from Feng Tianxia indicated the vast difference between them. Even if Chen Fan unleashed all his strength, Feng Tianxia could kill him with a breath.

    ¡°Wang Hui, my Tianxia Society has never forced anyone! Certain individuals, however, exploit their status as Elder Wei''s personal disciple to disregard my Tianxia Society, harm our members, and besmirch our reputation. As their leader, it is my duty to demand justice.

    Wang Hui furrowed his brow and said, ¡°Feng Tianxia, I can¡¯t be bothered arguing with you. We both very well know the truth. Since you''re here, take your members and depart.¡±

    Feng Tianxiaughed and said, ¡°Wang Hui, do you truly believe you can brush off this matter with a mere sentence? This sinful bastard killed my society members. This blood debt needs to be repaid with his blood.¡±

    ¡°What a joke. This is the Life and Death Hall, and they were in the life-and-death arena. Your society members died due to their ipetence in the arena against Chen Fan. Did you think you could disregard the rules of Life and Death Hall because you¡¯re the leader of the Tianxia Society and a holy disciple?¡± Wang Hui said coldly.

    Feng Tianxia said, ¡°Since there are rules in the Life and Death Hall, why did you stop the fight earlier? Can you disregard the sect rules because you¡¯re an elder? Or do you think my Tianxia Society is easy to bully and I, Feng Tianxia, am a pushover?¡±

    A terrifying aura spread from Feng Tianxia, pressuring the people and nearly forcing them to their knees. The entire space froze at this moment.

 Chapter 218 - Shocking News

    <h4>Chapter 218 - Shocking News</h4>

    When Feng Tianxia unleashed his aura, the wind ceased.

    The crowd¡¯s hearts thumped heavily.

    <i>Is Feng Tianxia going to make things difficult for Wang Hui?</i>

    Despite Wang Hui''s position as an Inner Sect Elder, Feng Tianxia, a holy disciple, held a statusparable to a Grand Elder, surpassing Wang Hui''s standing.

    Wang Hui felt as if arge, invisible hand had grabbed his neck, and he began having difficulty breathing.

    Although Wang Hui¡¯s cultivation wasn¡¯t weak, he wasn¡¯t in the Core Formation realm. The weight of Feng Tianxia''s Core Formation cultivation bore down on him like a massive mountain, creating intense pressure.

    ¡°What, Feng Tianxia, are you going to attack me?¡±

    Wang Hui looked at Feng Tianxia with an icy gaze and said, ¡°I stopped Song Yang because he vited the rules of Life and Death Hall and broke his promise by attacking Chen Fan. We can bring this to the Disciplinary Hall, but remember that reason is on my side.¡±

    Wang Hui paused for a moment. The corners of his lips lifted slightly, and he continued, ¡°Duan Jingtian has the qualifications to vite the rules, but you, Feng Tianxia, don¡¯t. Think well about the consequences before you act. See who can save you!¡±

    His words were a tant threat. Feng Tianxia¡¯s pupils shrunk when he heard this.

    Although he was a holy disciple and his status wasparable to a Grand Elder, Chen Fan was someone in the High Elder¡¯s faction and Wei Buyu¡¯s personal disciple.

    Duan Jingtian could vite the rules and attack Chen Fan because his cultivation was high, and he had the support of numerous Elders and the patriarch.

    However, Feng Tianxia had no support, and he wasn¡¯t even as strong as Duan Jingtian.

    So, while Duan Jingtian could challenge Wei Buyu, he couldn''t afford to do the same.

    However, if he were to back down in front of so many people, would he have any prestige left as the leader of Tianxia Society and as a holy disciple?

    As tension filled the air, a resounding voice echoed throughout the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, I, Zhong Ya, challenge you to a battle at Tianmen Mountain in half a month!"

    The announcement reverberated like thunder, plunging the Spring Autumn Sect into silence before erupting into intense discussions.

    ¡°Zhong Ya? Who is that?¡±

    ¡°Heavens, you don¡¯t even know about Zhong Ya? How ignorant! Zhong Ya is Divine Light Sect''s number one holy disciple, ranked eleventh on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, just below Senior Brother Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? He¡¯s actually challenging Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. Is he trying to enter the top ten?¡±

    ¡°Excuse me, what is the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard?¡±

    ¡°You... It''s a renowned list in the Great Chu Empire, featuring the most talented disciples and descendants across various sects and ns. Individuals that are revered and admired by the younger generation."

    ¡°The Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard features a hundred names, each belonging to prodigious talents who achieved Core Formation before turning thirty and gained fame within the Great Chu Empire. The top ten have an eighty percent chance of advancing to the Divine Nascent realm, with a thirty percent likelihood of advancing even further.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is ranked tenth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, while Zhong Ya is ranked eleventh. He likely wants to enter the top ten.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Discussions resonated throughout the Spring Autumn Sect, both in the inner and the outer sects, as people eagerly awaited to see if Duan Jingtian would ept the challenge.

    The atmosphere in the Life and Death Hall also changed.

    The crowd¡¯s attention went from Feng Tianxia and Wang Hui to awaiting Duan Jingtian''s response.

    Feng Tianxia and Wang Hui couldn''t match the stature of Duan Jingtian or Zhong Ya. Despite Feng Tianxia''s Core Formation cultivation, he was ineligible for the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard due to surpassing the age limit.

    ¡°What shocking news! Zhong Ya challenged Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. I wonder if he will respond to the challenge.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯ll surely ept the challenge! Won¡¯t people say he is afraid of Zhong Ya otherwise?¡±

    ¡°One is ranked tenth, and the other is ranked eleventh on the leaderboard. Their battle would surely shake the world.¡±

    ¡°I must witness this battle and see Senior Brother Duan Jingtian disy his divine might and defeat Zhong Ya, bringing honor to our Spring Autumn Sect.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The onlookers in the hall discussed the matter among themselves.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were also flickering non-stop.

    The individuals listed on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard were undoubtedly exceptional geniuses with remarkable cultivation achievements.

    A fight between Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya, holding the tenth and the eleventh positions on the leaderboard, was bound to be an earth-shaking event.

    Although Chen Fan had a great feud with Duan Jingtian, he couldn''t help but feel excitement and anticipation at the thought of their impending showdown.

    While aware of Duan Jingtian''s formidable strength, Chen Fancked a firsthand understanding of the extent of his power.

    If Duan Jingtian epted the challenge, he could witness Duan Jingtian''s strength personally and gauge the true extent of his prowess.

    Feng Tianxia had withdrawn his aura, looking to the distance, his gaze flickering.

    Duan Jingtian, as the Spring Autumn Sect''s top holy disciple, held unparalleled dominance over the others. The gap in strength between him and the rest was insurmountable.

    While the people were waiting for Duan Jingtian¡¯s response, as expected, a majestic voice came from the depths of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Showdown, half a month, Tianmen Mountain!¡±

    It was Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice.

    Given his arrogant and overbearing personality, Chen Fan found it entirely fitting for Duan Jingtian.

    The announcement ignited fervor within the Spring Autumn Sect; excitement and confidence filled the air.

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is sure to win this battle and bring honor to our Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    ¡°That goes without saying. Zhong Ya is delusional to challenge Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. His arrogance mirrors that of Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s set off for Tianmen Mountain and upy a good position. Once news of this spread, the entire Great Chu Empire will be shaken. Many people will definitely head to Tianmen Mountain to watch the battle.¡±

    ¡°Right, right. We should go to Tianmen Mountain and upy a good spot. This battle will surely shake the whole Great Chu Empire.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Numerous Spring Autumn Sect disciples started shouting and yelling, leaving the sect and heading toward Tianmen Mountain.

    Although the battle was set for half a monthter, the anticipation among the onlookers was too much, prompting many to head to Tianmen Mountain in advance to secure optimal viewing spots.

    The prospect of witnessing two top talents from the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard engaging in a showdown generated immense excitement. The news of this battle was expected to reverberate throughout the Great Chu Empire, drawing many spectators.

    ¡°Hmph, I¡¯ll spare this sinful bastard¡¯s life today. If he dares to insult my Tianxia Society again, I¡¯ll kill him, even if he is Elder Wei¡¯s personal disciple!¡±

    Feng Tianxia let out a cold snort and vanished from the hall.

    However, his departure went unnoticed, as the collective attention remained fixated on the impending battle between Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya.

 Chapter 219 - A Rarely Seen Grand Occasion

    <h4>Chapter 219 - A Rarely Seen Grand asion</h4>

    News of Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya engaging in a showdown at Tianmen Mountain in two weeks created amotion throughout the entire Great Chu Empire.

    Jingtian and Zhong Ya, respectively, were the top disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect and the Divine Light Sect. They held the tenth and eleventh positions on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard.

    What kind of sparks would be produced in their fight?

    Suddenly, the entire Great Chu Empire was in an uproar.

    Many people rushed to Tianmen Mountain, eager to witness the spectacle.

    Let alone the outside world, the news generated a continuous wave of heated discussion in the Spring Autumn Sect alone.

    As for the conflict between Chen Fan and Tianxia Society in the Life and Death Hall, no one cared about it still.

    ¡°Why did Zhong Ya suddenly challenge Senior Brother Duan Jingtian? Could it be that he has the confidence to defeat Senior Brother Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°I heard Zhong Ya obtained a treasure in the Tianfeng Empire half a year ago. It¡¯s very likely the source of his newfound strength and confidence. That¡¯s why he is now thinking of recing Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s position on the list.¡±

    ¡°This battle would definitely be a battle of the ages.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The battle at Tianmen Mountain was bound to be sensational.

    As soon as news of the impending battle spread, the entire Great Chu Empire plunged into chaos, with all discussions centering around this forting sh.

    ......

    Compared to the liveliness outside, the atmosphere within Chen Fan''s residence was starkly different¡ªquiet and cold.

    Seated cross-legged on his bed, Chen Fan systematically absorbed pure primeval energy from the primeval stones, turning them into dust. His rippled continuously.

    Chen Fan had obtained an enormous amount of treasures in the northwesternnds, including a mountain of primeval stones.

    He had initially nned to return to Xuanyang City and give these resources and treasures to the n.

    However, due to Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya''s deration, Chen Fan had decided to return after watching the fight.

    Chen Fan''s determination to witness the sh stemmed from his desire to gauge Duan Jingtian''s strength.

    The three-year promise seemed far away, but Chen Fan felt it was just around the corner. The gap between their strength was still like an unbridgeable chasm.

    Within his dantian, the Heaven Seizing Furnace revolved fiercely. It was refining a blood demon core, producing a buzzing noise.

    They were so deadly to everyone, even Core Formation realm experts, that even trying to refine a blood demon core would transform the user into a blood demon-like entity due to the contained blood poison,

    However, the Heaven Seizing Furnace could plunder the luck of heaven and earth and refine the most profound mysteries of the cosmos.

    There seemed to be no limit to what the furnace could refine. So, while the blood poison was tricky to deal with, it was nothing to Chen Fan.

    Under the refining process of the furnace, the blood poison vaporized, leaving behind only the purest vitality essence.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan''s cultivation and aura rose, a reaction to the pressure from both the Tianxia Society and Duan Jingtian.

    To others, he was powerful.

    However, in the eyes of people like Duan Jingtian and Feng Tianxia, he was like an ant.

    If it weren¡¯t for Wei Buyu, Wang Hui, and others rescuing him from various crises, Chen Fan would have likely died long ago.

    Strength.

    Chen Fan thirsted for great strength!

    Only with strength would he have dignity and the ability to protect himself and his family.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan trembled. Then, his aura surged like the tide.

    A powerful surge of energy emanated from him, creating a fierce wind that obliterated the furniture in his room.

    As he opened his eyes, a sharp glint shed in them.

    Over ten days had passed, and Chen Fan was now at the fourth level.

    <i>The blood demon core of a peak-stage, fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert only raised my cultivation by one small realm. How unexpected. </i>Chen Fan sighed in his heart.

    The higher his cultivation level rose, the more vitality essence he needed to reach the next level.

    Refining one peak-stage, fourth-level blood demon core, along with around ten cores at the second and third levels, only helped Chen Fan advance to the fourth level.

    Although he still had many demon beasts'' demon cores, they were all at the first- and second-level. They were no longer very useful to him.

    He nned on using these demon cores to perform martial infusion on his fellow nsmen.

    ¡°If I want to raise my cultivation level further quickly, I need to go kill powerful demon beasts or obtain treasures that contain vast amounts of vitality essence.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered.

    However, such a matter couldn¡¯t be rushed. He stood up, patted his clothing, and went to open the door. The sunlight shone inside. Chen Fan narrowed his eyes and said, ¡°Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya¡¯s battle will ur three dayster...¡±

    ......

    Tianmen Mountain, initially not widely known in the Great Chu Empire, gained instant fame due to Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya¡¯s decision to stage their fight there.

    No matter the height of a mountain, it became renowned with the presence of an immortal. No matter the depth of the water, it bes spiritual with the presence of a dragon. This saying likely refers to events such as this.

    Located in the southern region of the Great Chu Empire, Tianmen Mountain stood over ten thousand feet high, bing a gathering ce for hundreds of thousands of people.

    The crowd extended from the mountain peak to the foot, with a sea of heads moving in unison. Only a swathe of darkness could be seen from above, the moring shaking the heavens.

    The mor echoed, and additional groups of spectators continuously streamed in, all converging on Tianmen Mountain to witness the impending fight.

    ¡°So many people came.¡±

    Chen Fan had spent two days making his way to Tianmen Mountain. The sheer number of people gathered there astonished Chen Fan. The crowd looked like countless fruits hanging from a massive tree.

    The people had crowded the mountain top, the mountain foot, and even the surrounding ins.

    Chen Fan gazed at the surroundings andnded on the mountain foot.

    He sensed that most attendees were in the Yuanfu realm, with a smaller portion being Qi Grandmasters.

    As for whether there were any Core Formation realm experts around, Chen Fan had no way of knowing that if they didn¡¯t expose their cultivation aura.

    Chen Fan upied a vantage point with a wide view, allowing him to clearly observe the battle even if it unfolded fifty kilometers away.

    Finding an open space, he sat down with crossed legs, determined not to waste the day leading up to the Tianmen Mountain battle. He nned to cultivate his third illusory primeval vessel.

    Chen Fan shut his eyes and focused his attention, secretly activating his cultivation technique to absorb the primeval qi of heaven and earth and activating Myriad Elephants Divine Art to strengthen his physique.

    After the night passed, Chen Fan finally seeded in cultivating the third illusory primeval vessel in his dantian.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes, shining with a brilliant light.

    As the day progressed, the influx of people to Tianmen Mountain continued.

    At noon, a million people gathered on Tianmen Mountain. The crowd was densely packed like locusts, filling the space and making loud noises.

    Various auras surged and intertwined, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a martial arts convention.

    ¡°Look, a Core Formation realm expert is here!¡±

    Amidst the bustling crowd, a sudden exmation reached Chen Fan''s ears.

 Chapter 220 - Enormous Pressure

    <h4>Chapter 220 - Enormous Pressure</h4>

    Chen Fan looked up, catching sight of a gray-robed elder soaring through the air, traversing multicolored light as he approached.

    Upon reaching the skies above Tianmen Mountain, he promptlynded on its peak.

    ¡°This elder is... the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Grand Elder, Chen Muyang!¡± Someone nearby immediately recognized this gray-robed elder. [1]

    Intrigued, Chen Fan looked at the gray-robed elder closely. Recollections of a past feud in the outer sect involving Chen Changfeng and the three tigers resurfaced in Chen Fan''s mind. Chen Changfeng, with a prominent status, was supported by his grandfather, who was none other than Grand Elder Chen Muyang.

    Although Chen Fan had heard of him before, this was his first time seeing the man himself.

    Chen Muyang belonged to the neutral faction in the inner sect and seldom made appearances.

    Subsequent to his arrival, a group of Core Formation realm experts joined him, flying from a distance toward the mountain peak. This group, consisting of about a dozen individuals, exuded formidable auras that stirred the wind and clouds, all experts at the Core Formation realm.

    This dozen or so people were all elders of the Spring Autumn Inner Sect but were in the Sect Leader¡¯s faction.

    Since Duan Jingtian was one of the main characters of this event, the elders of the Sect Leader¡¯s faction naturally came to show their support.

    In the Great Chu Empire, Core Formation realm martial artists were considered the pinnacle of existence, each of them enjoying widespread renown. They were either Grand Elders of the various sects or territorial overlords with formidable reputations.

    Those who surpassed the Core Formation realm and reached the Divine Nascent realm, such as the sect leaders, served as stabilizing forces for their respective sects. They could exert tremendous influence across the entire Great Chu Empire with a mere step.

    Although Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya were influential figures of the Great Chu Empire and were young geniuses at the top of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, no Divine Nascent realm powerhouse had shown up yet.

    In the past, Wei Buyu and Duan Jingtian had an altercation on Dragon Mountain Peak, which nearly escted to them exchanging blows. However, the intervention of the Spring Autumn Sect''s Sect Leader¡ªa mere will from him¡ªaverted the crisis.

    So, up until now, Chen Fan hadn¡¯t seen the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Sect Leader either.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Grand Elders who are in the Core Formation realm. The ten or so of them arrived together. How majestic, how truly spectacr.¡±

    ¡°Chen Muyang is also a Grand Elder of the Spring Autumn Sect. Why didn¡¯t hee with them?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, the waters here are very deep. Them noting together means that they belong to different factions.¡±

    ¡°Look, more Core Formation realm powerhouses are here.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The arrival of the Core Formation realm powerhouses heightened the excitement on Tianmen Mountain.

    Qi Grandmasters were asmon as dogs on the mountain, and Yuanfu realm experts were also abundant.

    Normally, a Yuanfu realm martial artist would be considered an expert¡ªan existence that would be the center of attention. However, how could they stand out on the mountain when there were already more than thirty Core Formation realm experts here?

    Yuanfu realm martial artists were like ants in front of Core Formation realm powerhouses.

    The Yuanfu realm experts had concealed their auras to avoid inadvertently provoking the esteemed Core Formation realm powerhouses.

    ¡°Look, that¡¯s Wanderer Xuanhan, a rogue cultivator at the third level of the Core Formation realm. The powers of his ice cultivation are unparalleled. He once sealed a mountain in ice with a palm!¡±

    ¡°And there, that¡¯s Reverend Zishan! Although the Violet Daoist Temple doesn¡¯t count for much in the Great Chu Empire, Reverend Zishan''s cultivation is exceptional, reaching the fifth level of the Core Formation realm. Additionally, the Eastern Violet Qi Cultivation Technique he practices is a lower-earth tier cultivation technique.¡±

    ¡°There, elders of the Beast Profundity Sect. Rumors have it that their cultivation involves controlling beasts, allowing them to tame ferocious demon beasts forbat. Their strength is extraordinary.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Although Chen Fan didn¡¯t recognize the neers in the Core Formation realm, someone in the crowd was always ready to provide information about their origins and practiced cultivation techniques.

    A youth with a slightly chubby figure eagerly shared these details as if he were counting his family''s treasures whenever a Core Formation realm powerhouse appeared.

    Jingtian and Zhong Ya were young. They were the junior generation and were as young as the grandchildren of the older Core Formation realm experts there.

    Even so, these people hade to watch this battle, hoping toprehend some things from Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya¡¯s fight and improve.

    One after another, Core Formation realm experts descended upon the peak of Tianmen Mountain, turning it into a congregation of formidable individuals. Standing on the mountain peak symbolized not only their strength but also their status.

    The martial artists below the Core Formation realm weren¡¯t qualified, nor did they dare to go there. They could only watch from afar.

    ¡°Quick, look, that¡¯s Lu Daoming, ranked fifteenth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard. He¡¯se, too!¡±

    ¡°Look, there, that¡¯s Flying Snow Fairy Chi Feixue, ranked twentieth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard. She¡¯s a proud daughter of the heavens, having both strength and beauty. I am willing to lose ten years of my life if I could spend a night with her.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan saw a continuous stream of young experts soaring through the air, their auras matching or even surpassing those of the older Core Formation realm powerhouses.

    These individuals, as informed by the talkative youth, were all listed on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, with their rankings below that of Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya. The men exuded handsomeness and elegance, while the women possessed beauty and graceful temperaments.

    These people had alsoe to watch the battle, eager to see Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya¡¯s strengths andpare them to theirs.

    Time passed gradually; half an hourter, another group of about fifteen or sixteen experts came flying.

    These people all had amon feature: a radiant symbol embroidered on their chests. This group of people were the Core Formation realm powerhouses from the Divine Light Sect.

    Among them, a youth in a golden robe stood out, radiating divine light and carrying a solemn demeanor. His appearance captivated onlookers, evoking a sense of reverence.

    The crowd immediately cheered wildly when they saw this youth.

    ¡°It¡¯s Zhong Ya! Zhong Ya hase!¡±

    ¡°All the stars cup themselves around the moon. Even though Zhong Ya¡¯s status is that of a disciple, the Grand Elders of the Divine Light Sect are willing to act as leaves to highlight the flower that is Zhong Ya. It looks like the position of the next Sect Leader of the Divine Light Sect will be going to Zhong Ya.¡±

    ¡°So, this is Zhong Ya, the man ranked eleventh on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard? What powerful aura, what dazzling radiance!¡±

    ¡°Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard... Those listed on it are all proud children of heaven. They truly deserve their name.¡±

    ¡°Since Zhong Ya is here, I suppose Duan Jingtian will also be arriving soon.¡±

    ¡°This battle really leaves one looking forward to it and makes one¡¯s blood boil!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan looked toward Zhong Ya and had to narrow his eyes due to the dazzling divine light.

    <i>What a powerful aura!</i>

    Chen Fan had to admit Zhong Ya¡¯s strength in his heart.

    This kind of strength left him feeling a sense of powerlessness.

    If he were to fight Zhong Ya, thetter only needed to exhale to kill him.

    If Zhong Ya was this powerful, would Duan Jingtian be weak?

    Chen Fan felt he was too weak. He was like an ant in front of them.

    He even doubted he could reach Duan Jingtian¡¯s height in three years and fight him.

    1. In 181, Wei Buyu said he would take up the position of Grand Elder after Chen Fan entered the inner sect. Together with the information in 218, it seems ¡°Grand Elder¡± is a higher rank of elder instead of a single position like ¡°the first elder.¡± ?

 Chapter 221 - The Highly Anticipated Battle

    <h4>Chapter 221 - The Highly Anticipated Battle</h4>

    At this moment, Chen Fan felt an unprecedented pressure in his heart.

    ¡°But I shouldn¡¯t underestimate myself. Only six months have passed out of the three years. There are still two and a half years ahead. I can handle it!¡±

    A sharp light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Although he felt great pressure inside, his blood boiled even hotter at this moment.

    ¡°Elder Liehuo, is Duan Jingtian not here yet?¡± Zhong Ya inquired, looking at the Grand Elders of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    On the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side, a tall elder stepped forward.

    Half of this person¡¯s hair had turned white, but hisplexion was unusually rosy. He was Grand Elder Liehuo, boasting profound cultivation.

    Liehuo¡¯s aura was like the sun, emitting intense heat from head to toe. The surrounding space seemed slightly distorted, forming a distinctive force field around him.

    ¡°Hoho, no need to be in such a hurry, Zhong Ya. Jingtian will be here very soon,¡± said Elder Liehuo with a smile.

    Zhong Ya nodded andnded on another part of the mountain peak with elders from his sect.

    ¡°Zhong Ya, how confident are you about the fight?¡± asked a Grand Elder from the Heaven Origin Sect, standing beside the Divine Light Sect''s group with the group from his sect.

    Hearing this, the crowd also turned toward Zhong Ya with expectant looks.

    ncing at the assembled crowd, Zhong Ya calmly said, ¡°Win or lose, it¡¯s about fifty-fifty.¡±

    ¡°Fifty-fifty?¡±

    The audience responded with thoughtful expressions.

    Another Core Formation realm powerhouse smiled and asked, ¡°Zhong Ya, you were at the sixth level of the Core Formation realm three years ago. Didn¡¯t you obtain a treasure in the Tianyue Empire and went into secluded cultivation about a year ago? Are you suggesting there''s been no progress since then? You¡¯re being too humble, Zhong Ya.¡± [1]

    The crowd nodded one after another.

    News of Zhong Ya obtaining a great treasure in the Tianyue Empire had spread throughout the Great Chu Empire.

    Many spected that Zhong Ya had significantly improved his cultivation in the past year, bolstering his strength and gaining confidence to challenge Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Zhong Ya, how shameless of you to say you have a fifty percent chance of winning!¡±

    A loudughter echoed from a distance, resonating through the space and stirring the surrounding primordial qi violently.

    The crowd''s expressions turned serious as they shifted their attention to the source.

    A figure in white soared through the air, closing the distance rapidly. The neer was none other than Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°He¡¯s here! Duan Jingtian is finally here!¡±

    The crowd grew very excited. The two main characters of this battle have finally gathered here.

    Seeing Duan Jingtian, an icy light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The events of that day on Dragon Mountain Peak were etched in his memory¡ªan indelible mark he would never forget.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian...¡± Chen Fan muttered softly, gritting his teeth.

    Naturally, Duan Jingtian didn¡¯t notice Chen Fan in the crowd. Standing proudly in the air with an extraordinary demeanor, he stared at Zhong Ya. ¡°Zhong Ya, did you think you have the qualifications to challenge me after obtaining a treasure and improving your cultivation? iming a fifty percent chance of victory against me is utterly ridiculous! I''ll shatter your illusions soon and show you how vast the difference between us is!¡±

    Duan Jingtian''s words carried a strong sense of arrogance.

    They were both influential figures and experts on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard. Zhong Ya naturally wasn¡¯t willing to show any signs of weakness.

    Swiftly, Zhong Ya descended from the mountain peak, positioning himself opposite Duan Jingtian. His fierce gaze shot out like a sword light, seemingly creating sparks in the space.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, you¡¯re still as arrogant as ever, considering everyone to be beneath you!¡±

    Zhong Yaughed coldly and said, ¡°I heard you shamelessly attacked a Qi Grandmaster and even snatched his Ice Jade Snow Lotus. ssic Duan Jingtian.¡±

    Due to Duan Jingtian¡¯s fame in the Great Chu Empire, word of the three-year agreement between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian had naturally spread, causing a sensation.

    Some curious individuals had delved into the details and uncovered the cause of the conflict.

    Zhong Ya had mentioned the incident to humiliate Duan Jingtian for bullying the weak and robbing others of their treasures.

    ¡°Oh, I have heard about this. Someone called Chen Fan set this three-year promise with Duan Jingtian. If I am remembering it right, he is an outer sect disciple from their sect.¡±

    ¡°That Chen Fan supposedly killed members of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance in a blessednd. Duan Jingtian used it as an excuse to attack him. Ultimately, the Spring Autumn Sect''s Sect Leader had to intervene, promising Duan Jingtian the position of the next Sect Leader to appease him. Only then did he relent after taking the Ice Jade Snow Lotus that rightfully belonged to Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°A Core Formation realm powerhouse actually robbed a Qi Grandmaster? This...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd below erupted in murmurs, expressing surprise and disbelief.

    Unsurprisingly, Duan Jingtian narrowed his eyes, an icy light flickering within them.

    ¡°A Qi Grandmaster ant dared to provoke a Core Formation powerhouse... Had it been anyone else, they would have killed the ant. However, I, Duan Jingtian, am magnanimous and didn¡¯t kill him on the spot.

    ¡°However, the one who provoked me naturally has to pay a price. That Ice Jade Snow Lotus was merelypensation; I didn''t snatch it,¡± said Duan Jingtian indifferently.

    With a few words, Duan Jingtian had artfully twisted the truth, framing the situation as if Chen Fan had recklessly provoked him without cause.

    Duan Jingtian portrayed himself as generous and magnanimous, saying he had chosen not to deal with Chen Fan harshly.

    And the Jade Snow Lotus became an object used by Chen Fan topensate him.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Chen Fan didn¡¯t know his ce and dared to provoke Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. He deserves to die a thousand times!¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian spared his life instead of killing that sinful bastard on the spot, fully disying his great generosity and kindness!¡±

    ¡°Core Formation realm powerhouses are not to be insulted!¡±

    Members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance in the crowd immediately voiced their support.

    Hidden within the crowd, Chen Fan couldn''t help but chuckle inwardly.

    Given his currentck of strength and qualifications to challenge Duan Jingtian, he knew he couldn''t openly refute these ims.

    ¡°Alright, cut the nonsense and make your move, Zhong Ya! Your feeble attempts to smear my reputation won''t shake my resolve," Duan Jingtian dered, cutting off any further words from Zhong Ya.

    A formidable aura emanated from Duan Jingtian, reaching the skies and causing a shift in the wind and clouds.

    ¡°Come up and fight, Zhong Ya!¡±

    The fierce light in Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes pierced through space; suddenly, he soared to a height of ten thousand meters.

    His aura surged, and a chilling wind circled him, producing a sharp whistle.

    As he unleashed his cultivation, the heaven and earth froze, and snow descended like delicate feathers.

    The temperature around Tianmen Mountain fell abruptly. The cold was so bone-piercing that many had to use their cultivation to ward it off.

    ¡°Fight!¡± Zhong Ya shouted as his aura also surged. Divine light shone as he also soared ten thousand meters into the sky.

    Tearing through the space with a divine light, he stood opposite Duan Jingtian. The collision of their auras echoed in the sky, creating thunderous rumbles.

    At this moment, the million people on Tianmen Mountain fell silent. Everyone held their breaths, watching the two in the sky closely.

    A spectacr battle was about to unfold ten thousand meters above ground.

    1. In 219, a SAS disciple said it was half a year ago in the Tianfeng Empire. I¡¯m more inclined to believe this elder for now since he has higher status and his words have more weight to them. Perhaps that disciple misheard. ?

 Chapter 222 - Earth-shaking Clash

    <h4>Chapter 222 - Earth-shaking sh</h4>

    Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya¡¯s gazes shed fiercely in the sky.

    Their auras grew increasingly stronger, crashing like waves and bursting the thickyers of clouds.

    Chen Fan stood at the foot of Tianmen Mountain, ten thousand meters away from the sh. Still, he had difficulty breathing due to the qi eruption from the sh of their auras. He felt like an invisible hand had grabbed his throat and pinned him under an ancient divine mountain.

    ¡°How terrifying...¡± A glint appeared in his eyes.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura had forced him to kneel on Dragon Mountain Peak. He had felt like the heavens themselves were forcing him down. However, Duan Jingtian had only used ten percent his aura at the most.

    Wei Buyu had then protected him from Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura, so Chen Fan was sensing his terrifying aura in all its glory for the first time.

    As Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya released their auras without reservations above Tianmen Mountain, Chen Fan finally grasped the true extent of their strength.

    And this aura was just what made it down after the sh. The pressure would have likely crushed him if he were at the collision''s center.

    ¡°Zhong Ya, a hundred moves is enough for me to defeat you!¡± said Duan Jingtian, looking at Zhong Ya indifferently.

    However, the onlookers below were left speechless by the promation.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s im that he could defeat Zhong Ya so quickly spoke volumes of his arrogance.

    Such a promation seemed imusible. Battles among powerhouses at their level often remained undecided even after hundreds of exchanges unless there was a significant disparity in their cultivations.

    The idea lingered¡ªdid Duan Jingtian''s cultivation vastly surpass Zhong Ya''s?

    ¡°How arrogant!¡±

    Zhong Ya¡¯s expression sank.

    He was an exceptional genius of the Great Chu Empire, so how could a top-tier talent like him stomach such humiliation?

    Zhong Yaughed coldly and shouted, ¡°Duan Jingtian, you really know no shame. Defeating me within a hundred moves? To think you can say that out loud!

    ¡°In the entire Great Chu Empire, only the top three on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard might have a chance against me within a hundred moves. You, however, have no such strength!

    ¡°Today, I''ll prove you''re not as formidable as you believe. I''ll take your position on the leaderboard!¡±

    ¡°Talk is meaningless. Let¡¯s fight!¡± said Duan Jingtian calmly, refraining from further conversation. With a sh of light, a heavenly halberd materialized in his hand.

    Purgatory Divine Halberd, painted in red and outlined in gold, bore a crescent moon-shaped curved de haunted by countless spirit silhouettes¡ªa weapon seemingly originating from the underworld.

    ¡°Purgatory Divine Halberd!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s actually the Purgatory Divine Halberd. It''s a demonic weapon that has been passed down for hundreds of years; it has incredible power."

    ¡°Although Duan Jingtian disrespected Zhong Ya with his words earlier, he wasn¡¯t being careless with his actions at all, directly bringing out the Purgatory Divine Halberd.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd immediately recognized the heavenly halberd in Duan Jingtian''s hands, their pupils shrinking at the sight

    Duan Jingtian held it at an angle, slightly tilted upward, resembling a demonic god wielding a lethal weapon. His whole person was enveloped in a murderous qi, his aura was simply unrivaled.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    In response, Zhong Ya swiftly flipped his palm, revealing a dark golden spear.

    The spear had a menacing appearance, with a tip resembling a closed golden lotus that emitted a sharp, golden light capable of tearing through the void.

    ¡°That is... the Heavenly Lotus Battle God Spear!¡±

    ¡°Tsk, tsk. The Purgatory Divine Halberd and the Heavenly Lotus Battle God Spear. I wonder which is more formidable!¡±

    Light flickered in the crowd¡¯s eyes when they saw the spear in Zhong Ya¡¯s hand.

    The Heavenly Lotus Battle God Spear was a treasure on par with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Without hesitation, Duan Jingtian swung the halberd, unleashing boundless sharp light that scattered in all directions.

    The dense, sharp light filled the area, casting an eerie darkness over everything. A furious, gloomy wind roared, and a bone-chilling cold pierced through the air.

    The single swing of the halberd created a terrifying sh, tearing through heaven and earth and darting toward Zhong Ya with a might capable of annihting gods.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Reacting swiftly, Zhong Ya moved his arm, and a resplendent golden light erupted from the Heavenly Lotus Battle God Spear.

    That golden light was an incredibly sharp golden qi, and it was so dense that it was almost tangible.

    As the spear thrust forward, the surrounding space seemed unable to withstand its power. The golden light pierced through the heavens and the earth, causing the air to explode with a force akin to mountains copsing and the earth cracking.

    <i>Boom! Boom! Boom!</i>

    Explosive booms resonated, creating earth-shaking noises that filled the air with a devastating dust storm, sweeping across the entire Tianmen Mountain.

    Despite standing ten thousand meters away, many onlookers couldn''t withstand the force and spat blood, theirplexions turning pale.

    ¡°Too powerful!¡±

    ¡°Too frightening!¡±

    ¡°Is this the extent of their strengths?¡±

    Everyone in the crowd was stunned.

    Even the Core Formation realm powerhouses on the mountain peak narrowed their eyes, an unusual light flickering them.

    Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya, having tested each other with a probing attack, now exchanged blows at full strength.

    Afterimages filled the sky, apanied by blinding explosions that shed incessantly. Sounds of their collisions and explosions echoed, shaking heaven and earth. The ripples of their shes swept out like gigantic waves.

    The battle between the two was something ordinary martial artists could never imagine.

    Watching the battle unfolding ten thousand meters in the sky, Chen Fan had a thought.

    <i>They are so fast. I can only see blurs. </i>

    Despite being a Yuanfu realm expert, he failed to make out their figures clearly. He could only hear the swift wind and the continuous explosions, catching glimpses of the halberd light tearing through the air and the golden spear light piercing the sky.

    The constant explosions in the sky created devastating gales that swept out everywhere. Tianmen Mountain trembled non-stop due to the aftermath of their attacks.

    Chen Fan fully grasped the vast gap between Duan Jingtian and himself.

    It was too wide!

    It was simply insurmountable!

    Even experts at the second or third level of the Core Formation realm couldn¡¯t withstand a single blow from Duan Jingtian, let alone him.

    ¡°I will surely reach this height in two years!¡± Chen Fan murmured, then turned to leave without hesitation.

    His visit was solely to gauge Duan Jingtian''s strength, and now he had a clear understanding.

    He wasn¡¯t concerned with the result of the battle. However, he did hope for Zhong Ya¡¯s victory.

    It could dete Duan Jingtian''s arrogance, leading to a mental setback and a possible roadblock in his cultivation. However, he knew that the likelihood of that happening was slim.

    Chen Fan''s departure went unnoticed by the crowd absorbed in the spectacle; their blood boiled with excitement.

    The vast majority here couldn¡¯t get a clear look at Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya exchanging blows. However, the constant explosions fueled the crowd¡¯s imagination, creating vivid images of the intense exchanges between Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya.

    ¡°Little bastard!¡±

    Yet, some closely observed Chen Fan''s departure from a short distance away. The owner of that icy gaze was none other than Song Yang.

 Chapter 223 - Slaughter

    <h4>Chapter 223 - ughter</h4>

    ¡°Little bastard, who will save you now!¡±

    Song Yang shot an ominous re at Chen Fan¡¯s departing figure, and the corners of his lips curled up cruelly.

    He deeply hated Chen Fan but couldn¡¯t kill him in the inner sect. This was the perfect opportunity to exact his revenge.

    Song Yang also left Tianmen Mountain with several members of Tianxia Society. They tailed Chen Fan from a distance, looking for a secluded ce to kill Chen Fan.

    Flying through the air, Chen Fan had realized Song Yang''s group was tailing him about ten miles from Tianmen Mountain. A cold smile appeared on his face as he contemted the situation.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re seeking death, I¡¯ll grant your wish!¡±

    Chen Fan altered his course, speeding up.

    Song Yang''s group noticed the change. One of them remarked, ¡°Brother Song, it seems this little bastard has caught on.¡±

    Song Yang grinned coldly and said, ¡°That changes nothing. Can he outrun us? Let''s increase our speed, find a deserted location a few hundred miles away, and send him straight to hell."

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    The members of the Tianxia Society, all at the third level, smiled coldly at themand.

    This time, it would be hard for Chen Fan to escape even if he had wings.

    Since they knew Chen Fan had already discovered them, Song Yang and the others didn¡¯t try to conceal themselves anymore. Instead, they took the initiative to release their auras, openly chasing Chen Fan.

    ¡°Haha, Brother Song, do you think that little bastard is panicking like crazy right now?¡±

    ¡°Of course! We have made our intentions pretty clear by unleashing our auras: we will kill him. I''m certain he''s feeling immense pressure, sweating bullets.¡±

    ¡°He dares to kill our society¡¯s people. Only death awaits him!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Song Yang and the othersughed coldly, their expressions savage.

    Chen Fan was moving fast, so he was already more than a thousand miles away from Tianmen Mountain after half an hour.

    Now in a secluded mountain range, he examined the area by extending his senses. He sensed no human activity within the surrounding hundred miles¡ªit was a good ce to kill and bury people.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    With a cold glint in his eyes, he descended onto a mountain peak.

    As the mountain breeze tousled his clothes, he stood there calmly.

    Shortly after, Song Yang''s group descended as well, surrounding him with cold smiles.

    ¡°Little bastard, you picked a good ce to bury your bones!¡± Song Yang remarked, arms crossed, showing no urgency to attack. He surveyed the surroundings, appreciating the mountain range''s beauty.

    ¡°How can you be sure I didn''t pick this ce for you?¡± Chen Fan replied calmly, his expression unwavering, devoid of joy or sorrow.

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡±

    Song Yang and the others immediately broke out inughter.

    One of them said, ¡°Little bastard, you seem oblivious to your situation! This isn¡¯t the inner sect; no one has your back. If we want to kill you, it¡¯ll be as simple as killing an ant!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Had Wang Hui not intervened in the Life and Death Hall, you would¡¯ve long since died at Brother Song¡¯s hands. You wouldn¡¯t have been alive to enjoy thest fifteen days!¡±

    ¡°Thank the gods for giving you another half a month to live. You know that killing our members is the same as seeking death, right?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! If we decide to end you, you''ll have no choice but to stand there and thank us for the privilege.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The members of the Tianxia Society spoke in session, their third-level Yuanfu realm auras converging as they pressed toward Chen Fan, intending to instill terror before delivering the fatal blow.

    However, Chen Fan remained unfazed; not a flicker of concern crossed his face.

    ¡°You did say one thing right. Someone should be thanking the gods, but that someone¡¯s not me,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    ¡°What!¡±

    ¡°You dare to spew nonsense? That will cost you an arm!¡± A youth with a slightly grotesque appearance, consumed by anger, moved forward.

    In his mind, Chen Fan was in a desperate situation.

    He should be kneeling on the ground and begging them for mercy in fear.

    So, Chen Fan''s calm demeanor and arrogant words only fueled his rage.

    He immediately stepped forward and curled his fingers, taking the shape of a w, as they tore through the space. He wanted to rip an arm off of Chen Fan.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    This person¡¯s sharp w grabbed Chen Fan¡¯s right arm and pulled violently, trying to rip it off cruelly.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t move, letting him do as he pleased. Yet, the attacker failed to even move him an inch.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    This attacker¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief.

    ¡°I lured you people here. Do you know why? It¡¯s nice and secluded. Perfect for a good kill-and-dump session. You will all be buried here,¡± said Chen Fan calmly, seemingly discussing something inconsequential.

    Chen Fan shook his arm, and the youth let out a wretched cry as his palm was turned into minced meat.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan threw out a punch at lightning speed. The unfortunate assant had no time to scream before being obliterated, reduced to a bloody mist scattered by the wind.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan unleashed his real, fourth-level aura; it created an overwhelming pressure that enveloped the entire area.

    Song Yang''s group, now visibly pale, wore expressions of horror in response to the intense aura.

    ¡°You...¡± Song Yang¡¯s pupils dted, stupefied by the situation.

    <i>Chen Fan is actually at the fourth level?!</i>

    <i>How is that possible?</i>

    ¡°Are you surprised?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled faintly, but they felt like the devil was flirting with them. They felt a chill go down their spines, seemingly having fallen into an abyss.

    ¡°If I hadn''t been reluctant to reveal my true strength and preferred keeping a low profile, you would have met your end back in the life and death arena. Oh, and the whole charade with you bunch of trash... Did you really think you could make me spew blood with one punch?¡±

    Chen Fanughed coldly.

    His words were like a sledgehammer falling on Song Yang¡¯s chest.

    <i>A charade? </i>

    <i>Chen Fan had been putting on an act in the arena all along?</i>

    He didn¡¯t know whether Chen Fan was telling the truth or not. He no longer could think.

    He knew Chen Fan had lured them here to kill them. This scend was indeed the burial ground Chen Fan found for them.

    ¡°Run!¡± Song Yang yelled without any unnecessary words.

    He activated his cultivation, unleashing his fourth-level Yuanfu realm aura to resist Chen Fan¡¯s pressure, hoping to escape from here.

    The other members of the Tianxia Society did the same.

    ¡°Can you escape?¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head, chuckling. Autumn y appeared in his hand.

    With a swing, sword light tore through the air, destroying everything.

    These people could not withstand a single sh and were cleaved.

    In a single breath¡¯s time, those third-level Yuanfu realm experts all perished.

    Meanwhile, Song Yang had just broken through Chen Fan¡¯s aura.

    However, he had no time to take off into the sky. An extremely swift and fierce sword light came whistling at him, turning into the light of death.

    ¡°No...!¡± Song Yang let out a sad, indignant roar as his cultivation erupted, trying to resist the attack.

    Everything he tried proved futile. He was split into two, fresh blood streaking through the air.

    In a brief moment, Chen Fan had killed Song Yang¡¯s group like he was ughtering fowls,pleting the task effortlessly.

 Chapter 224 - Fountain of Life

    <h4>Chapter 224 - Fountain of Life</h4>

    Three dayster, Chen Fan returned to the sect and learned about the oue of the battle between Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya.

    ¡°As expected of Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. He¡¯s truly unrivaled. He used only a hundred moves to defeat Zhong Ya, bringing glory to our Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    ¡°The battle was iparably intense. The treasure Zhong Ya obtained helped him reach the seventh level of the Core Formation realm. He executed the Holy Light Judgement but was still defeated by Senior Brother¡¯s Heavenly Cold Winter God Force that froze the surroundings with the Snowfilled Universe. The technique¡¯s simply unbeatable.

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is now at the eighth level and stronger than almost all Grand Elders in the sect. He¡¯s the role model and symbol of our Spring Autumn Sect.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Disciples with higher cultivation levels, having already returned to the sect, engaged in animated discussions about the recent battle on Tianmen Mountain. Their faces reflected enthusiasm as if they had personally participated in the fight.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really him. I saw him at Tianmen Mountain. He went to watch the fight, too. Senior Brother¡¯s unrivaled might must have shaken him badly. He is likely filled with regret now.¡±

    ¡°Haha, and he thought he could fight Senior Brother Duan Jingtian in three years. That¡¯s like the ssic example of overestimating yourself. Is he even worthy?¡±

    When some people saw Chen Fan, they immediately spoke louder, mocking him.

    Following Duan Jingtian¡¯s overwhelming victory against Zhong Ya, his prestige within the sect had reached an unprecedented pinnacle. He had be the idol of countless individuals, including core disciples and even some holy disciples.

    Chen Fan was also shocked when he heard their discussion.

    True to his words, Duan Jingtian had defeated Zhong Ya with only a hundred moves.

    Duan Jingtian was at the eighth level of the Core Formation realm!

    Chen Fan''s mood turned somber as he quickened his pace and returned to his residence.

    As more days passed, more disciples returned from Tianmen Mountain, and the entire sect buzzed with discussions about the Tianmen Mountain battle.

    ......

    Chen Fan exited his residence, preparing to return to his n.

    As he walked, all he heard was discussions about Duan Jingtian¡¯s battle at Tianmen Mountain. And there weren¡¯t any signs of it stopping any time soon.

    "Senior Brother Duan Jingtian fulfilled his words, decisively defeating Zhong Ya in a hundred moves. His divine might is unparalleled."

    "I believe Senior Brother Duan Jingtian deserves a higher ranking. He could easily secure a spot in the top five."

    ¡°That¡¯s right! That day, Zhong Ya said that only the top three of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard could defeat him within a hundred moves. Senior Brother''s victory proves he has the strength to break into the top three.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan walked past with a calm expression.

    He had felt a bit down for a while after returning to the sect. Duan Jingtian defeating Zhong Ya in a hundred moves was like a bolt out of the blue for him.

    After all, someone as powerful as Zhong Ya had lost to Duan Jingtian in a hundred moves. This was too astounding.

    When Duan Jingtian had dered that he would defeat Zhao Ya in a hundred moves, almost everyone thought he was joking, and Chen Fan was no exception.

    So, when Duan Jingtian really achieved that feat, the shock was too much.

    However, Chen Fan had since regained hisposure, unaffected by the previous shock.

    As he strolled along a secluded path, a voice tinged with envy nearby disrupted the tranquility.

    ¡°Lei Tao, Chu Tiange and the others are really lucky. Senior Brother Duan Jingtian has tasked them with retrieving the Fountain of Life from the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. He might even grant them a drop of it.¡±

    ¡°Chu Tiange is already at the peak of the fourth level. If he obtains a drop of the Fountain of Life, he could advance to the fifth level and be a core disciple.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? I want to go, too. To be able to serve Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is a great honor. It¡¯s too bad my cultivation is too low. The Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range is fraught with dangers. Even an expert at the fifth level might perish.¡±

    ¡°I heard Senior Brother Duan Jingtian went to train at Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range a few years ago. He effortlessly dealt with those corpse demons and, by chance, stumbled upon the Fountain of Life''s spiritual spring. After consuming its water, his cultivation soared to unprecedented heights.¡±

    ¡°This time, he sent Lei Tao and the others to retrieve the Fountain of Life. I''m certain he''s gearing up to advance to the ninth level of the Core Formation realm or perhaps even the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan stopped, listening in on their conversation, his eyes flickering.

    ¡°Fountain of Life...¡±

    He was familiar with the term, having heard of its legendary properties. This highly coveted fluid was rumored to enhance vitality essence significantly, helping the user advance in cultivation at an unparalleled speed with just a single drop.

    The Fountain of Life was the best elixir for martial artists to break through any bottlenecks.

    Due to its endless vital essence, consuming a drop of Fountain of Life would allow a Qi Grandmaster to advance immediately to the Yuanfu realm.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t expect to hear news regarding Duan Jingtian and the Fountain of Life here.

    ¡°Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range...¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly.

    There were four major demonic corpsends in the Great Chu Empire. They were the ck Corpse Mountain Range, Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, Heavenly Corpse Mountain Range, and Yin Corpse Mountain Range. [1]

    As indicated by their names, these locations were graveyards where corpses were buried.

    However, the unique geographical features of these ces led to the corpses undergoing mutations over the years, transforming into malevolent entities like jiangshi or corpse demons.

    Chen Fan recalled reading about them in a book. They were perilous territories within the Great Chu Empire, teeming withyers of graves harboring jiangshi and corpse demons.

    Entering any of these four perilous territories was no different from seeking death.

    There, even Thousand-Year Corpse Kings were considered trivial; deeper in, Ten-Thousand-Year Corpse Kings, demons, and various evil spirits gathered to wreak havoc.

    Despite the danger, the territories attracted martial artists like flies due to the presence of ancient graves containing numerous treasures, including divine weapons. Many martial artists sought the thrill of exploring thesends despite the inherent risks.

    Chen Fan was well aware that a formidable corpse tide would surge from the four perilous territories every sixty years. The Jiangshi Demon King residing in these graveyards would try to invade the maind and transform more people into jiangshi.

    In the Spring Autumn Sect, many disciples liked to kill jiangshis and corpse demons in the peripheral area of these territories to obtain their corpse core. They could be exchanged for contribution points in the sect.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian had them go to Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range to obtain the Fountain of Life.¡±

    A cold look appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He mumbled to himself, ¡°In that case, I will have to make a trip to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range as well.

    ¡°The Fountain of Life contains an enormous amount of vitality origin essence. It¡¯s perfect for improving my cultivation by leaps and bounds.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, the Fountain of Life will be mine!¡±

    Foiling Duan Jingtian''s ns would bring immense satisfaction to Chen Fan, especially when he considered the additional benefit of obtaining the Fountain of Life.

    If he got the Fountain of Life, his cultivation would rise explosively quickly, bolstering his confidence in fulfilling the three-year agreement.

    It wouldn¡¯t be good news for him if Duan Jingtian obtained the Fountain of Life and broke through to the ninth level.

    1. ck Corpse Mountain Range was first mentioned in 79 along with Blood Valley, when the story cut to a servant informing their master Sir Blood Shirt or Xue Yi, the Third Young Master, is dead. ?

 Chapter 225 - Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range

    <h4>Chapter 225 - Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range</h4>

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A golden, one-horned rhinoceros copsed as Chen Fan struck it with his palm.

    In Chen Fan''s grasp appeared a golden demon core¡ªspecifically, a first-level Yuanfu realm demon core obtained from the Golden Giant Rhinoceros.

    This giant rhinoceros could innately devour metals from subterranean veins, resulting in its bones, blood, and fur bing metallic.

    These demon beasts could serve as valuable support for refining metal-attributed elixirs or crafting treasures.

    Chen Fan stored the entire corpse of the Golden Giant Rhinoceros and its demon core in his storage ring. Standing atop a mountain, he gazed into the distance.

    This ce was close to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. The earth here was already polluted by the qi from the corpse poison, giving off a rotten, fishy odor.

    The ground resembled decayed, malodorous flesh, releasing nauseating waves of a fishy odor.

    One could even see white bones sticking out of the mud at intervals, with the era of the person buried in this mountain range remaining unknown.

    Each outbreak of a corpse tide would unleash a formidable army of jiangshi from the mountain range. Their sole purpose was capturing and transforming living beings into jiangshi.

    Chen Fan¡¯s protective primeval force surrounded him, forming a transparent membrane that covered him entirely.

    A dazzling, thunderous light flickered and cascaded across the membrane, emitting crackling sounds, rendering it impervious to all evil forces.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan became a whirlwind as he rushed into the mountain range shrouded in corpse qi.

    The noxious corpse qi,den with deadly poison, attacked him as he advanced. And with every step he took, the various types of evil qi¡ªnefarious, poisonous, and corpse¡ªgrew denser.

    Surprisingly, within the mountain range, there were trees, albeit unusual ones without branches or leaves.

    The grayish-white tree trunks resembled bones, with thin traces of blood on them like veins and blood vessels.

    It was as if those weren¡¯t normal trees but corpse trees that had turned into demons and ghosts.

    Chen Fan recognized these as carnivorous bone trees, a result of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range''s distinctive geographical conditions.

    Approaching them could trigger sudden attacks, as some of these trees couldunch bone spikes designed to prate protective primeval qi, posing a significant threat even to Qi Grandmasters.

    If a martial artist were injured or dead, the well-developed root system of these trees would extend like human arms, entangling the victim and absorbing their energy, eventually turning them into mere bones.

    Suddenly, one such carnivorous bone tree sprang into action, unleashing dozens of spiral-shaped bone spikes.

    Spinning rapidly, the bone spikes tore through the air with fierce sharpness, like shooting stars streaking across the sky.

    A few bony hands simultaneously emerged from the rotten mud on the ground, grabbing Chen Fan¡¯s legs to pull him in.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan unleashed his cultivation and kicked off the air. A terrifying energy rushed out,nding on those bony hands and blowing them into smithereens. Even the ground exploded, and countless bone fragments flew out chaotically.

    Rubbing his hands together, Chen Fan ignited his qi into mes that burned fiercely.

    Chen Fan struck out with a palm, burning the bone spikes darting toward him. Hissing noises that resembled the miserable cries of spirits filled the air.

    Simultaneously, he flew higher andunched another palm strike from above.

    The attack left the bone tree trembling. Chen Fan grabbed at the air, and the entire tree was pulled out along with its roots, creating a big hole in the ground.

    It left a sizable hole in the ground. The pitch-ck hole emitted dark qi, its depth unknown.

    Suddenly, a noise like sharp ws scraping a coffin came out from the hole.

    Chen Fan tried to investigate the hole with his senses, but a mysterious energy blocked it off.

    The ck hole below suddenly exploded as he crushed the carnivorous bone tree into powder. A skeleton jiangshi came rushing out of it, wing at Chen Fan with its iparably long and sharp nails.

    Unfazed, he calmly struck out with a palm, unleashing a torrent of energy that shed with the skeleton jiangshi''s ws, resulting in a booming explosion and rippling winds.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The skeleton jiangshi was sent flying, falling to the ground and rolling back like a gourd. Its bones let out nging noises like metals colliding.

    It was a jiangshi general that was as strong as a third-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    <i>Rustle, rustle, rustle...</i>

    More rustling noises came from the big hole. It seemed like more corpses were trying to climb out of it.

    Soon, more skeleton jiangshis crawled out from the hole.

    More skeleton jiangshis crawled out from the hole with bones as strong as iron. Even after death, the essence of their cultivation remained in them, activated by the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, transforming them into spectral entities and skeleton soldiers.

    These skeleton soldiers have varying cultivation levels. The highest were in the first level of the Yuanfu realm, while the lowest were in the third or fourth level of the Qigong realm.

    Each wielded broken or rusted weapons, standing in orderly ranks like a military formation.

    ¡°Interesting.¡±

    A light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The bone tree had attacked him because it was being manipted by the skeleton jiangshi below.

    The third-level Yuanfu realm skeleton jiangshi was the leader of these skeleton soldiers, a jiangshi general. Positioned at the forefront, it gazed at Chen Fan with ghostly mes burning in its vacant eye sockets.

    ¡°Committing evils even after death, you deserve to be killed!¡± said Chen Fan coldly.

    With a wave of his hand, his primeval force transformed into mes, descending on them like a meteor shower.

    Puff sounds resonated as the skeleton jiangshis below the Yuanfu realm were reduced to ashes, and the rotten corpse qi was refined.

    The corpse tide every sixty years released a substantial amount of corpse qi. Inhaling this qi turned living beings, be they demon beasts or humans, into jiangshis. These jiangshis propagated by biting others, creating a vicious cycle.

    Since Chen Fan hade to Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, he could reduce the extent of the disaster by a little if he could get rid of more jiangshis.

    Engaging in martial arts cultivation was, in essence, challenging the natural order by plundering life from the heavens.

    The more powerful a martial artist was, the more cmities they would face.

    umting virtue could potentially garner mercy from the heavens during future cmities, increasing their chances of survival.

    Although it wasn¡¯t time for Chen Fan to undergo any tribtion, it wouldn¡¯t do him any harm if he got rid of these harmful jiangshis in passing and umted some virtue and karma.

    There weren¡¯t any other people here. Chen Fan could use his powers in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range without any worries and kill these skeleton jiangshis.

    His cultivation had reached the fourth level. He effortlessly swept through the area, encountering no resistance as he turned the skeleton jiangshis into powder.

 Chapter 226 - Massive Underground Tomb

    <h4>Chapter 226 - Massive Underground Tomb</h4>

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t hold anything back as he attacked. The impact could topple mountains and overturn seas.

    None of the skeleton jiangshis could withstand his onught, and even the jiangshi general crumbled into a heap of shattered bones with a single palm strike, ttering on the ground.

    After dealing with the skeleton jiangshis, Chen Fan stood in the air, gazing sharply at the dark hole from which these creatures had emerged.

    <i>That carnivorous bone tree attacked me first, and some mysterious force controlled these skeleton jiangshis. This force... It came from inside the hole. Is there a cemetery below? </i>Chen Fan thought.

    The jiangshis¡¯ orderly movements and worn-out armor suggested that they were once soldiers in life.

    That would mean that there was a cemetery beneath his feet. And if there was a cemetery with so many soldiers and even a general at the third level, it had to be the tomb of some aristocrat.

    ¡°There¡¯s a high chance a Corpse King-level expert is buried here. I want to go down and see what dangers and treasures are in the tomb...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up, showing no signs of fear.

    In Zhuxian Town, he had killed a Thousand-Year Corpse King and obtained treasures like the Innate Golden Armor and Sun Stone.

    The Corpse King buried here should be stronger than the one in Zhuxian Town. That would mean he also stood to gain more treasures.

    Firm in his decision, Chen Fan jumped into the pitch-ck hole.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Upon entering the pitch-ck hole, Chen Fan felt an unsettling wind that made his hair stand on end.

    The hole was a tunnel that stretched deep underground, resembling a maze with its intricate twists and turns¡ªa clear indication that it served as the passageway to a tomb.

    Deep underground, the earth was hard and rocky without the rotting smell. It was a mausoleum dedicated to some prominent figure from an unknown dynasty or era.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    Chen Fan unintentionally crushed a skeleton as he navigated the tomb''s passage.

    Venturing further into the passageway within the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, Chen Fan found himself inplete darkness. So, he channeled his primeval qi to his eye and could then see everything ahead clearly and vividly.

    As he moved deeper, the tomb passageways expanded, and he encountered groups of animated skeletons.

    Closer inspection revealed that someone had sacrificed and refined humans to create these skeletons. He could also see sinister ck vein lines on their bones.

    Evidently, a demonic practitioner had inscribed runes on them, granting the skeleton jiangshi soldiers the ability to absorb nefarious qi automatically.

    The corpse king buried below seemed to have held a remarkable status in its past life.

    Chen Fan quickly advanced deeper in.

    The Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range was massive. The tomb passageways were intertwined in aplicated manner, deeper into its depths. A Yuanfu realm expert with a cultivation level simr to Chen Fan''s would have fallen in danger by now, as the nefarious qi would have eroded their primeval force. And if they then faced the Corpse King, they would have died.

    However, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t worried at all.

    Chen Fan could venture deeper into the underground tomb because of his exceptionally robust primeval force, surpassing that of others. Moreover, the Heaven Seizing could refine all substances, including the nefarious qi and the corpse qi here.

    <i>Crack! Crack!</i>

    Chen Fan flew through the underground tomb passageways one after another,ing across more and more skeleton jiangshi soldiers.

    Some of these skeletons had steel needle-like hair growth, with ck, vacant eye sockets flickering with soul mes.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, a skeleton jiangshi with red hair jumped out and thrust its palms forward. A dark red me enveloped him. The me was also toxic, all thanks to its cultivation technique¡ªToxic mes Cultivation Technique.

    Contact with these mes would immediately ignite the opponent¡¯s primeval force and introduce poisonous qi into them, quickly transforming them into a skeleton jiangshi.

    The red-haired skeleton jiangshi was at the fourth level.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan swiftly approached, colliding with the jiangshi like a meteorite.

    A resounding boom echoed as the skeleton shattered, and its dark red mes dispersed like fireworks. Chen Fan dealt with the poisonous part by simply revolving his cultivation once.

    Chen Fan held a blood-red demon core in his hand. He stomped once, and the ripples reduced the remaining skeleton jiangshis to piles of crushed bones.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Chen Fan continued forth unimpeded, revolving his cultivation at full strength. He passed through every passage like a typhoon, leaving not a single jiangshi alive.

    Suddenly, a sharp howl came from the depths of the underground tomb.

    All the jiangshis and skeletons immediately retreated into the underground passages. Soon, not even a ghost or spirit could be found in all the passagewaysbined.

    ¡°What is this? What a powerful sound!¡±

    Chen Fan flitted toward the noise, navigating throughyers of passageways. As he progressed, the surroundings opened up, revealing a massive tomb in the depths underground.

    The tomb soared to great heights, with over a hundred feet of space from the ground to the ceiling. Dragon, phoenix, and other intricate decorations adorned the walls, while the ground disyed patterns of mountains and rivers, and the ceiling featured depictions of the sun, the moon, and the stars formed by embedded illuminating pearls.

    In the center of the tomb stood a colossal coffin, seemingly designed for a giant upant. Crafted from bronze, the coffin featured carvings of ancient ferocious beasts on all four sides, indicating the high status of its former upant.

    When Chen Fan entered the tomb, an ancient corpse flew out of the bronze coffin.

    Unlike the skeleton jiangshis, this male figure retained withered flesh and skin, resembling a skeleton wearing ayer of human skin. The human skin emitted a golden luster, exuding an indestructible aura.

    This ancient male corpse was wielding a three-meter-long guandao. The cold de light emanated a chilling intent, and the space seemed filled with cold de qi.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes. While not on the same level as Duan Jingtian¡¯s Purgatory Divine Halberd, the guandao was definitely a rare and precious treasure.

    This ancient male corpse was wrapped in a thickyer of corpse qi. Its aura was so powerful that it could terrify Yuanfu realm experts at the first or second level.

    This ancient male corpse was a Thousand-Year Corpse King at the fifth level. In the Spring Autumn Sect, it would be an existence equivalent to a core disciple.

    ¡°A mere fourth-level Yuanfu realm brat dares to trespass into my, King Huai of the South¡¯s, tomb. You¡¯re simply courting death!

    ¡°You trespassed into my tomb and killed many of my ancient corpse subordinates. I¡¯ll refine you into a ve jiangshi general to guard my tomb. Only that will appease the hatred in my heart. Go to hell!¡±

    Suddenly, a powerful aura locked onto Chen Fan, followed by a swift sh of de light as King Huai of the South swung his guandao.

    The de light seemingly looked like a green dragon trying to devour Chen Fan.

 Chapter 227 - Grand Killing Array

    <h4>Chapter 227 - Grand Killing Array</h4>

    King Huai of the South was enveloped in extremely robust corpse qi and still had his cultivation and martial prowess from his living days.

    ¡°Earth Splitting sh!¡± roared the king, and a de light darted toward Chen Fan.

    The solid ground trembled violently under the attack as if the de light would split it.

    The de light instantly arrived in front of Chen Fan.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan shattered the de light with a casual palm strike. Following this, Chen Fan unleashed an earth-shaking punch; it flew toward King Huai of the South.

    King Huai of the South was caught off guard by Chen Fan¡¯s strength. His opponent had countered his attack and retaliated with an attack so powerful that it created gales strong enough to make his withered skin crease further.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Swiftly evading Chen Fan''s assault, King Huai flew, transforming his guandao into a green dragon that descended on Chen Fan with a roar.

    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>

    The de light had yet to descend, but the terrifying qi had already made web-like cracks appear on the ground.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist,¡± Chen Fan said softly. Six primeval force arms sprouted on his back, swinging wildly.

    Every punch and every palm strike contained devastating might. The force rushed out, shaking heaven and earth, leaving the spacious tomb shaking.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Undefeated King¡¯s Fist shed with King Huai of the South¡¯s guandao, generating a sharp sound as a formidable force struck the de''s surface.

    The tremendous force sent King Huai of the South flying, and it shook like a twig when it stood back up.

    Ghostly mes burned in his dark, empty eye sockets, emitting an eerie aura. There was something evil in his gaze as it remarked, ¡°You¡¯re no ordinary Yuanfu realm martial artist. Your strength rivals that of a fifth-level expert. You must be a talented disciple from some sect, an extraordinary genius.¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Chen Fan snorted coldly, his eyes radiating an even icier re.

    ¡°Nevertheless, you will meet your end here soon. Your journey here must have depleted your strength considerably. The jiangshi army encountered along the way has likely drained a significant portion of your primal force and stamina. How are you holding up?¡±

    King Huai of the Southughed sinisterly, his cackling echoing through the tomb.

    ¡°Is that right?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, unleashing his aura that was so strong that it created a fierce wind.

    "A Corpse King like you will meet his demise at my hands¡ªconsider yourself lucky. Now, embrace your fate!" Chen Fan roared, devouring the surrounding qi like a fierce tiger.

    Autumn y erupted violently with a terrifying sword light, tearing the air in front of him apart and shing toward King Huai of the South.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A resounding bang echoed as King Huai of the South countered with his guandao, shattering the sword light but being repeatedly pushed back by the powerful impact.

    Chen Fan stepped forth ferociously, closing in on King Huai of the South. His six arms struck out, generating powerful winds that swept out, rumbling.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof!</i>

    King Huai of the South wielded his guandao ferociously, his corpse qi sweeping out. Every swing was heavy and powerful, with great strength behind it.

    Still, he was repeatedly beaten back by Chen Fan, who was going all out. His corpse qi stormed out, the ghostly fire in his eye sockets flickering.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A terrifying sword light tore through everything andnded on King Huai of the South. Sparks immediately flew as if the sword light had struck steel.

    King Huai of the South was thrown back, mming into the bronze coffin.

    ¡°With the ground as mountains and rivers, and the sky as the stars, Mountain River Stars Grand Array, activate!¡± King Huai of the South quickly activated the tomb¡¯s grand array.

    Numerous lights illuminated the ceiling, and gemstones embedded in the tomb shone like celestial bodies.

    Simultaneously, the ground''s mountain and river grand array came to life as the earth and the water stream formed a deadly momentum,unching attacks at Chen Fan.

    This tomb was a grand array King Huai of the South had spent countless years to set.

    With its activation, nefarious qi and corpse qi from heaven and earth converged in the tomb, whistling through the air. It seemed as if demons from hell had been unleashed, aiming to trap and kill Chen Fan.

    In life, King Huai of the South was not only a powerful aristocrat but also someone proficient in arrays. The Mountain River Stars Grand Array, set up in his tomb, harnessed the abundant nefarious qi, corpse qi, and ghostly qi in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. The array gave him enough strength to even fight against experts at the fifth level.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Within the grand array, streaks of a qi substance formed from the mixture of various types of qi. It transformed into all kinds of weapons, spinning in the air, and darted toward Chen Fan with strong tearing power.

    The array would remain strong as long as it had an endless supply of the various types of evil qi.

    ¡°Keke, brat, did you think you could survive after walking into my tomb? There''s no escape, not in heaven or hell. You''re fated to be a jiangshi general under mymand."

    King Huai of the Southughed sinisterly, seeing the grand array in operation and supplying him with terrifying powers.

    ¡°It is somewhat troublesome.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s six arms struck out continuously from within the grand array, smashing the weapons into pieces.

    However, those weapons were all condensed from the endless nefarious qi, corpse qi, and ghostly qi. Once shattered, they reformed into the qi substance, transforming into weapons again, creating a vicious cycle.

    ¡°You do have some tricks up your sleeves. The strength of the grand array can threaten experts in the fifth and sixth levels, borrowing the qi from heaven and earth tounch endless attacks. If one cannot break through this grand array, they would be slowly exhausted to death.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone brightly.

    He had robust primeval force, so he wasn¡¯t worried about the corrosion of the nefarious qi and corpse qi. However, the grand array seemingly had endless powers and could slowly chip away at his strength.

    ¡°Too bad, this grand array just isn¡¯t enough.¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled lightly and shook his head. Closing his palm, the Heaven Piercing Spear condensed in his hand.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    A berserk aura spread from Chen Fan, making the king stopughing abruptly. Its array was trembling.

    To the king¡¯s horror, Chen Fan effortlessly tore apart the grand array with a single move of his spear. The various types of evil erupted chaotically, creating a tumultuous scene with explosive force.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    King Huai of the South cried out at the sight. It immediately moved, flying into the passageway, trying to escape.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    There was no way Chen Fan would let him escape.

    With a swish, he appeared above King Huai of the South.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear produced a popping sound as if it punctured through the void, stabbing the back of King Huai of the South¡¯s head and nailing him to the ground.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    King Huai of the South exploded under the terrifying force.

    With a ng, his guandao fell to the ground. A jade pill, about the size of an eye, and a fist-sized corpse core also flew out.

 Chapter 228 - Flying Yaksha

    <h4>Chapter 228 - Flying Yaksha</h4>

    Chen Fan retrieved the jade pill and the corpse core with a sweeping hand motion.

    The jade pill was the size of a longan fruit, arrayed with delicate blood streaks and resembling an eyeball.

    Chen Fan could sense the enormous amounts of primeval force inside. At the very least, it wasparable to that of a first-level Yuanfu realm expert''s dantian.

    This particr item was a rare spiritual jade designed for storing primeval force, a treasure of significant value that many martial artists could only dream of possessing.

    ¡°Good stuff. I have no use for this treasure, but Father and Grandfather can use it. Storing primeval force in it is equivalent to having twice the amount of primeval force, making one stronger inbat.¡±

    Factors such as strength levels, weapons, and martial arts skills yed crucial roles in martial arts battles. The spiritual jade, capable of storing the primeval force of a first-level Yuanfu realm martial artist, could tip the scales in favor of its wielder during fights.

    Chen Fan put the jade eyeball away and grabbed at the air, picking up the guandao.

    That wasn¡¯t his preferred weapon, but his father, Chen Zhengqing, was an expert with des.

    With this Green Dragon Crescent de, Chen Zhengqing would be like a tiger with an additional pair of wings in battle. Hisbat strength would increase significantly. [1]

    Chen Fan meticulouslybed through the entire tomb, collecting any valuable items into his storage ring, amassing a significant haul.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan grabbed at the air. A palm-sized sheepskin scroll flew out from the bronze coffin.

    Intriguingly, it bore a striking resemnce to the remnant map he had acquired in the underground secret room of Lon Ancient Imperial City.

    Chen Fanpared the two maps and realized that they were two pieces of the same treasure map.

    Hebined the remnant maps, revealing andscape of mountains and rivers. Though iplete, it offered a partial guide to the hidden treasure.

    Looking closer, Chen Fan realized he was missing the most crucial part of the map.

    He resignedly stored the iplete maps, hoping to stumble upon the missing piece in the future, enabling him to unveil the treasure''s location.

    Preparing to leave, Chen Fan suddenly stopped and turned back, fixing his gaze on the Mountain River Stars Grand Array.

    Crafted by King Huai of the South, the array could harness the qi of heaven and earth. It could produce enough power to challenge even fifth or sixth-level Yuanfu realm experts.

    Although he had broken free from the array, he hadn¡¯t destroyed its foundation. If he could bring it back to his n, it would fortify their base camp in Xuanyang City, alleviating concerns about their limited number of experts.

    The Chen n was currently rapidly developing, but they needed more experts. Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong were their only Yuanfu realm experts.

    Chen Zhengqing''s responsibilities in overseeing the n''s affairs in Watermoon City, a Grade-2 city with fifth-level Yuanfu realm experts, necessitated his constant presence to safeguard the n''s businesses and wealth from rival factions.

    Meanwhile, Chen Tianxiong had to oversee the n in Xuanyang City to prevent ns from other cities from robbing them while their defenses were down.

    However, Chen Tianxiong was not that strong, as he was only at the first level of the Yuanfu realm.

    If he had the assistance of this Mountain River Stars Grand Array, he could kill third-level Yuanfu realm experts even if he couldn¡¯t utilize the array¡¯s full power.

    The Mountain River Stars Grand Array was even more precious than the Green Dragon Crescent de.

    Chen Fan made his way back and carefully took down the grand array. Then, he rushed out of this underground tomb.

    ......

    Chen Fan ventured further into the depths of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    ording to the news he had heard, the spiritual fountain that gave birth to the Fountain of Life was deep in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    Lacking precise coordinates, he pressed on, hoping to encounter Lei Tao, Chu Tiange, and others on the way.

    As he progressed, Chen Fan systematically killed the jiangshis in his path, dealing with increasinglyrger armies.

    His powerful palm strikes decimated hordes of skeletal jiangshis, numbering over a hundred at times, densely scattered across mountain valleys and swamps.

    The jiangshis'' cultivation levels also rose, with Qi Grandmasters and Yuanfu realm jiangshis bingmonce. Some ancient ones, deceased for thousands of years, were as strong as King Huai of the South.

    Chen Fan enjoyed killing the evil beings. With each strike, he would get numerous corpse cores. He would umte them within the Heaven Seizing Furnace, further enhancing his power.

    The furnace¡¯s mes would quickly deal with the cores, refining the corpse qi and leaving behind only the purest vitality origin essence to replenish Chen Fan¡¯s dantian.

    <i>Ao!</i>

    <i>Aoooo!</i>

    While Chen Fan was busy killing the skeletal armies, a mountain resembling a grave abruptly convulsed, sending shockwaves through the surroundings

    Intense corpse qi surged from the earth, making all skeletons and jiangshis bow in submission¡ªa Ten-Thousand-Year Corpse King had emerged.

    Chen Fan had in the evil beings too ferociously, finally provoking an absolute expert cultivating in secret deep in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    The Ten-Thousand-Year Corpse King had golden hair covering its body, while a pair of flesh wings adorned its back¡ªa Flying Yaksha. Formidable foot-long fangs adorned its mouth, exuding a horrifying aura.

    This Flying Yaksha swooped down with a whistle. The strong wind was mixed with golden qi light, sweeping over like a storm.

    The golden qi light was actually a metal-attributed primeval force. Its prative powers were powerful, nearly puncturing even the space.

    ¡°So many years... No one has entered the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range and gone on such a rampage in so many years. Brat, you¡¯ve acted too arrogantly.¡±

    This Flying Yaksha shot out eerie qi in ripples, attacking Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t dare to treat him lightly.

    This Flying Yaksha was stronger than the King Huai of the South, being at the sixth level. Any carelessness could result in Chen Fan bing a member of the jiangshi army.

    Chen Fan let out a roar and unleashed his cultivation, shadowing the sky. His qi reached the clouds, causing the thick corpse qi and nefarious qi in the skies to scatter, allowing the sun rays to shine through.

    Facing the Flying Yaksha, Chen Fan went all out from the start. His three illusory primeval vessels spun fiercely, giving Chen Fan immense strength.

    With a single spear strike, it was like he had pierced through the heavens and made it tremble.

    The metallic qi, resembling a storm, immediately recoiled under Chen Fan''s forceful strike.

    The devastating force exploded in the air, spreading outward. Everywhere it reached, the earth shook, and the mountains nearly toppled.

    The sharp metallic qi shattered under the powerful shockwaves.

    ¡°A mere yaksha like you dares to show yourself and stand in my way. You¡¯re courting death, you know that?¡±

    With a cold sneer, he swiftly moved forward, producing swishing noises, and materialized in front of the Flying Yaksha.

    Unleashing the Heaven Piercing Spear, Chen Fan''s strike shattered the nefarious qi, corpse qi, and ghostly qi in the area. Violent ripples surged wildly toward the Flying Yaksha as Chen Fan tried to overpower his opponent with relentless force.

    1. The author had always referred to the weapon as Green Dragon Crescent de, but I tranted it as guandao from 226, the Chinese weapon type, because this specific name refers to the weapon of Guan Yu, a legendary Chinese general in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. ?

 Chapter 229 - Fifth Level Yuanfu

    <h4>Chapter 229 - Fifth Level Yuanfu</h4>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Heaven and earth changed colors, and the vast sea rolled back under Chen Fan¡¯s spear.

    The nefarious qi, corpse qi, and ghostly qi exploded, generating formidable currents that surged toward the Flying Yaksha.

    The Flying Yaksha wielded an extraordinary trident. Eerie ghostly qi lingered around it, transforming into ghost heads and vengeance spirits. With a swift motion, it thrust the trident forward.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    A series of popping sounds echoed as the space was pierced. The sharp metallic aura, along with the nefarious qi and the corpse qi, shed with the surging currents, effortlessly breaking them apart.

    The space quickly returned to tranquility, revealing the frightening strength of the Flying Yaksha.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The Flying Yaksha pped its flesh wings, erupting with a godly light that covered the sky. It stretched its limbs and released its aura.

    Rapidly osciting qi currents emanated from the Flying Yaksha, and metallic divine lights descended like torrential rain, targeting Chen Fan.

    ¡°Extinguish!¡±

    Chen Fan was like a god moving through space and time. His aura was locked on the Flying Yaksha. With his six arms striking fiercely, he disrupted the space, crushing the iing metallic divine lights.

    Chen Fan sped through the space with a single step and arrived before the Flying Yaksha.

    As he thrust the Heaven Piercing Spear, divine-looking runes flickered on its surface.

    A ck hole spun and expanded on the spear''s tip, carrying a terrifying suction that tried to pull the yaksha toward the spear.

    ¡°Yaksha Strike!¡± The spirits on the yaksha¡¯s trident emitted mournful wails, reaching Chen Fan''s ears and transporting his mind to an alternate time and space

    This space-time was full of spirits, as if it was a ce where they gathered. They covered the sky and the earth, rushing toward Chen Fan to rip him apart.

    However, Chen Fan''s resolute mind remained unaffected.

    With a jolt, those spirits screamed and wailed miserably. Purgatorial mes engulfed them, and hissing sounds filled the space as the souls burned.

    Some spirits turned on each other, merging into a towering, malevolent entity with a face marred by rotten sores. When it moved, pieces of rotten, putrid flesh fell from its body.

    It looked so fearful that anyone would find their scalp turning numb.

    This evil existence quicklyunched an attack on Chen Fan. Evil-looking eyes appeared all over its body, erupting with ghostly light that shook Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    Chen Fan felt a tremendous impact on his mind from these countless eyes.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Suddenly, the small golden person hiding in Chen Fan¡¯s brow shook and emitted a golden light.

    Immediately, the strange space-time dimension started crumbling.

    The sky shattered, and a heavenly fire descended like a meteor shower. The eerie, ghostly aura was instantly obliterated under the onught of heavenly fire.

    Simultaneously, the earth ruptured, and hellish magma erupted akin to a volcano. The evil entity, affected by the magma, saw its decaying flesh disintegrate like raindrops, and its eerie white bones melted away.

    Finally, Chen Fan¡¯s mind left that dimension.

    <i>Chi!</i>

    However, the Flying Yaksha¡¯s trident already loomed before Chen Fan, approaching with an overwhelming pressure akin to a massive, crashing wave. He didn¡¯t even have the time to catch his breath.

    In the crucial moment, Chen Fan unleashed the Wings of Rain Dragon. He tore through the air, instantly flitting a thousand meters away, evading the Flying Yaksha¡¯s attack. From afar, he looked at the Flying Yaksha with an icy expression.

    When the Flying Yaksha had stabbed at him, it had alsounched a secret mental assault, trapping his mind in a mysterious dimension, nearly leading to his demise.

    If the small golden person had not helped him and destroyed that mysterious dimension, the yaksha would have stabbed Chen Fan¡¯s head.

    Chen Fan¡¯s back was drenched in ayer of cold sweat.

    Relying too much on his overwhelming strength, he had underestimated the nefarious qi''s corrosive power and became vulnerable to the Flying Yaksha''s cunning tactics. His overconfidence had nearly led to his downfall.

    ¡°I got lucky...¡±

    His pupils sharpened, his mind focused, determined not to give the Flying Yaksha another opportunity to exploit his weaknesses.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    He pped his Wings of Rain Dragon to raise a fierce hurricane. It blew away the skeleton jiangshis below, throwing them off bnce and rolling them away.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan seemingly teleported, appearing instantaneously above the Flying Yaksha. With an icy gaze, he thrust the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    The Flying Yaksha, reacting swiftly, swung its trident upward, engaging in a violent sh with Chen Fan.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Despite its efforts, the Flying Yaksha was nearly instantly overwhelmed by the colossal force.

    It cried out miserably as it fell from the sky, fluttering its flesh wings, its body torn and tattered from the impact.

    ¡°You...¡±

    The Flying Yaksha crashed onto the ground, crushing a swathe of skeleton jiangshi into powder. It stood up and looked at Chen Fan, its voice filled with fear.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan spat out a single word. Descending rapidly, he thrust the Heaven Piercing Spear, annihting all defenses put up by the Flying Yaksha and soon extinguishing its life.

    Arge corpse core fell into Chen Fan¡¯s hand. With a quick cirction, the white-golden heaven-refining mes turned into a stream, purifying therge amounts of evil qi on the surface of the corpse core.

    A sixth-level Yuanfu realm corpse core contained massive amounts of vitality essence.

    On his way here, Chen Fan had refined and absorbedrge amounts of corpse cores, so his cultivation had been rising steadily.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Immediately, Chen Fan¡¯s aura erupted uncontrobly, sweeping and suppressing everything.

    All the skeleton jiangshi affected by its ripples were devastated, regardless of their cultivation levels.

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura erupted continuously, shaking heaven and earth. The surrounding nefarious qi, corpse qi, ghostly qi, and all kinds of evil qi stirred restlessly as if they had met their nemesis.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz.</i>

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t pay attention to any of that.

    He took out arge amount of primeval stones and burst them open one after another. He absorbed their primeval qi like a whale taking in water. As he circted his cultivation, the primeval force in his dantian rose dramatically.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace spewed vitality essence endlessly, and primeval force surged ceaselessly throughout Chen Fan¡¯s meridians like the Yangtze River.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Half an hourter, a dull sound came from inside Chen Fan. Another invisible force swept out across thends.

    It even shattered a mountain. The Thousand-Year Corpse King within was directly blown to bits, leaving only a blood-colored corpse core in the air, spinning.

    Chen Fan finally advanced to the fifth level after refining and devouring countless corpse cores and absorbing their essences.

    Upon his return to the Spring Autumn Sect, he could undergo inspection by the elders of the Advancement Hall and be immediately promoted to a core disciple. This elevation in status would beparable to that of an inner-sect elder.

 Chapter 230 - Return My Life

    <h4>Chapter 230 - Return My Life</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan''s condensed primeval force manifested as a palm, overturning a mountain and sending boulders, each the size of a house, soaring into the sky, filling the air with dust.

    The overturned mountain revealed a grave; deep within it was a bronze coffin.

    A Ten-Thousand-Year Ancient Corpse within the coffin opened its eyes, surprised that someone had ripped its roof¡ªwhich was a mountain¡ªopen.

    Didn¡¯t that mean the attacker could move mountains?

    Whether in the Spring Autumn Sect or other sects, the fifth level of the Yuanfu realm was a dividing range. Disciples below the fifth level were elites, while those in the fifth level were core disciples, receiving the sect''s most intensive nurturing.

    In summary, the significancey in the substantial difference between the fourth and fifth levels of the Yuanfu realm.

    A fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert could destroy a mountain, but they couldn¡¯t toy with it like it was a stone. Experts at the fifth level could treat mountains like they were pebbles¡ªoverturn them, kick them away, and even send them flying with a smack.

    That was the difference!

    In the Lon Ancient Imperial City, why did Chu Tiange want Xue Chongtian¡¯s blood demon core so badly?

    He wanted to absorb the essence within, break his shackles, and advance to the fifth level.

    Seconds after opening its eyes, this Ten-Thousand-Year Ancient Corpse saw a human silhouette above its coffin. The neer grabbed at it, pulling the ancient corpse out by the neck like he was picking up a chick.

    This Ten-Thousand-Year Ancient Corpse had its fill of human blood and was cultivating in pleasure, but with this, its enjoyment hade to an end.

    Upon catching sight of the teenager who had captured it, the Ten-Thousand-Year Ancient Corpse instinctively roared. Its sharp fangs extended toward Chen Fan¡¯s palm, aiming to drain his blood.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    However, upon contact with Chen Fan''s skin, its fangs shattered as if striking steel, causing the ancient corpse to emit a pitiful cry.

    An enormous force rushed out from Chen Fan¡¯s palm. The Ten-Thousand-Year Ancient Corpse ultimately crumbled into pieces from the impact and died. Its corpse core also fell into Chen Fan¡¯s hand.

    Despite being a mighty sixth-level expert, this corpse king usually slumbered within a mountain. It woulde out to hunt for food at night and was an enormous threat to the surrounding thousands of miles.

    By eliminating this threat, Chen Fan not only put an end to a potential disaster but also umted great virtue.

    Chen Fan also received other physical benefits from the act, so he continued his killing spree as he traveled further.

    He pulled out numerous thousand-year and ten-thousand-year corpse kings from the mountains and killed them to get their cores. And all this while, he hadn¡¯t stopped killing the skeleton jiangshis.

    The corpse kings used to be invincible experts lording over an area, hiding within the mountain range. They would emerge during times of demon prevalence, causing harm to the innocent.

    Chen Fan''s elimination of these threats could be seen as a preventive measure.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Several mountain peaks were sted away as Chen Fan left a trail of destruction in his wake within the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    His cultivation soared rapidly, and he could unleash his real strength here to unleash devastating power with every punch and kick.

    If he used all his strength, he could uproot mountains like he was uprooting saplings, resembling an invincible war god ttening thend.

    The Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range faced a cmity under his unstoppable advance, with crumbled peaks and dispelled corrupted forces marking his path.

    Chen Fan even had the idea to simply raze the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range to prevent the jiangshi army from causing harm.

    Countless slumbering corpse kings were still in their sweet dreams when Chen Fan directly killed them.

    In less than a day, Chen Fan had killed five Ten-Thousand-Year Corpse Kings¡ªall at the sixth level.

    He killed so many Thousand-Year Corpse Kings that he couldn¡¯t even keep up the count on his fingers. As for the skeleton jiangshis... who was even counting?

    As he delved deeper, Chen Fan''s aura grew increasingly strong. He was on the verge of breaking through to the next level.

    ¡°Return my life... return my life...¡±

    Suddenly, a haunting noise reached his ears, akin to the murmur of a wandering ghost.

    The corpse qi ahead intensified, turning the ground pitch-ck and distorting the air. The once-visible mountain range now appeared shrouded in a dark, blurry fog. He couldn¡¯t even see the silhouette of a mountain range now.

    Numerous wailings filled the area as hideous ghostly faces appeared in the distorted air, making his hair stand on end.

    He was almost at the center of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, where no one came all year round because it was too evil.

    Fifth-level Yuanfu realm experts could resist the corrosion of the nefarious qi and corpse qi. However, they would bepletely exhausted after dealing with multiple corpse kings to get here. The evil qi would then invade them and turn them into a jiangshi.

    There were wandering ghosts among the many hideous ghostly faces in the evil qi ahead.

    They had perished within the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, and over time, their bodies transformed into skeletal jiangshi. Yet, their reluctance and even resentment during their demise led to a gradual separation from their corpses in this ce¡¯s unique environment, transforming them into ghost-like entities.

    These ghosts retained the diverse desires they possessed in life, with a profound craving for flesh and blood.

    They could pick up the scent of flesh and blood even from ten thousand miles away. They wanted to devour Chen Fan¡¯s flesh and blood and take over his body.

    ¡°It is said that the Fountain of Life is formed in an extraordinary environment, that is, in the evilest Yin ces. The extreme Yin turns into extreme Yang, and from there, there¡¯s a certain chance of giving birth to the Fountain of Life...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered.

    He looked at the wandering, lonely ghosts ahead, not showing any signs of fear on his face. Instead, he revealed a look of joy.

    The presence of these ghosts indicated an environment saturated with extreme Yin, suggesting the Fountain of Life could emerge here.

    Chen Fan spected that the location where Duan Jingtian had sent Lei Tao, Chu Tiange, and others to retrieve the Fountain of Life might be this very area.

    Although Chen Fan didn¡¯t sense their auras, he felt he would encounter them if he just waited here.

    ¡°Return my life... return my life...¡±

    Mournful noises rang in his ears repeatedly from all directions.

    These ghosts had the same ability as the Flying Yaksha, which was to attack the minds of martial artists. These mournful noises were them trying to attack Chen Fan¡¯s mental state.

    Should Chen Fan''s mental resilience falter, even for a moment, these ghosts would seize the opportunity to attack him and drain the energy from his flesh and blood, ultimately reducing him to a dry husk.

    These ghosts dared not approach him now because Chen Fan was closely guarding his mind, and the heaven-refining mes¡ªthe antithesis to all things evil¡ªwere floating around him.

    However, the qi in Chen Fan¡¯s flesh and blood was extremely tempting to these ghosts. It was a heavenly delicacy.

    Still, they didn¡¯t dare toe closer and could only keep wandering around him, emitting mental fluctuations to exploit any potential vulnerabilities in Chen Fan''s mental defenses.

 Chapter 231 - Devil Enters Body

    <h4>Chapter 231 - Devil Enters Body</h4>

    Arge swathe of ghosts wandered around Chen Fan. Their faces, twisted and repulsive, emerged from the ghostly mist that enveloped him.

    These ghosts continuously emitted sharp, mournful cries, and the soul''s ripples incessantly invaded Chen Fan''s mind, making it tremble.

    ¡°Return my life... return my life...¡±

    Although he heard them in his ear, he felt like they also rang somewhere deep in his heart.

    Despite Chen Fan''s strong mental resilience, the constant cries began to irk him.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Chen Fan took a deep breath, suppressing his frustrations.

    ¡°Break for me!¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan stabbed forward with the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    The distorted air and the evil qi affecting the space disintegrated, eradicating every trace of the haunting ghosts and their evil aura.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Suddenly, an eerie wind swept through, triggering a transformation in the surroundings.

    Ghostly qi and evil qi spread out in all directions, immediately enveloping Chen Fan. Now, he couldn¡¯t see anything.

    The air resounded with the chilling wails of ghosts, creating an atmosphere akin to purgatory.

    Everything was a blur, and he couldn¡¯t even tell the east from the west.

    ¡°Return my life!¡±

    Suddenly, a streak of gloomy evil qi struck Chen Fan from the side like a domineering overlord, bringing with it a fierce wind, causing the protective primeval force around him to tremble.

    Chen Fan hurriedly turned around and saw a devil within that evil qi.

    The devil before him was entirely pitch-ck, possessing a robust and towering figure. Its nails extended several feet, and its formprised ck smoke, shape-shifting inconsistently as ifcking a tangible body.

    As the ck smoke¡¯s ghostly qi rolled, the devil¡¯s face shrunk and lengthened, transforming into different faces. It appeared to be aposite entity, a fusion of numerous ghosts.

    ¡°A Devil Spirit!¡±

    Chen Fan realized in a sh.

    This was undoubtedly a type of devil, not a physical being but a spiritual one. It was much stronger than those wandering ghosts. Itsponent souls had cultivated to an extremely high level and were the most difficult to exterminate.

    Ordinary cultivation techniques couldn¡¯t harm such a Devil Spirit. If one encountered one of these, they could do nothing but wait for their deaths.

    Only cultivation methods with overpowering righteous qi, possessing extreme Yang and fierce attributes, could effectivelybat these vicious devils.

    The evil qi, corpse qi, ghostly qi, and nefarious qi were all too rich in the depths of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. When powerful martial artists died here, their souls did not perish but instead became tainted by the evil qi, transforming into devils.

    These devils were all very incredibly powerful.

    The Devil Spirit attacking Chen Fan was even stronger than some Ten-Thousand-Year Corpse Kings. At the very least, it was stronger than the sixth-level corpse king he had killed.

    The devil was strong because of the exceptionally dense evil qi present here. If it were to leave this region saturated with evil qi, its power would diminish.

    ¡°Asura¡¯s Ghost Hand!¡±

    When this Devil Spirit¡¯s sneak attack failed, it suddenly flickered and transformed into a ck fog. As it transformed, a ghostly w from Asura¡¯s hell appeared.

    A blue-green phosphorus me ignited on the ghostly w, creating mes that disrupted the air and formed a vacuum by drawing out all the air around.

    The surrounding atmosphere instantlypressed, now as dense as a steel te, as faint cracking sounds rang in the space.

    The w seemed intent on dragging Chen Fan into Asura''s hell for eternal damnation, preventing any chance of reincarnation.

    The methods of these Devil Spirits not only inflicted physical harm on martial artists but also affected their mental state.

    This Asura¡¯s Ghost Hand could w a bloody gash on Chen Fan¡¯s flesh in one go. Simultaneously, it would also attack Chen Fan¡¯s mind. He would feel like he had fallen into Asura hell with no hopes of reincarnating, making him give up.

    This w could, therefore, even kill Chen Fan with a single sh.

    Two streaks of thunderous light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he suddenly thrust his spear.

    It was like an ancient god had fiercely hurled a spear at the sun to bring it down.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spearpletely punctured the Asura¡¯s Ghost Hand. Immediately, the powerful Devil Spirit let out a miserable and mournful cry.

    ¡°Soul Possession!¡±

    Suddenly, the Devil Spirit released an eerie soul ripple, piercing Chen Fan¡¯s soul like a needle. He felt such intense pain in his brain that he screamed miserably while clutching his head.

    The Devil Spirit transformed into a chilling ck fog air current and swiftly lunged at Chen Fan, prating his protective primeval force and infiltrating his seven orifices, entering his body.

    Immediately, Chen Fan felt a wave of chill all over. He was possessed.

    As soon as the Devil Spirit entered Chen Fan, it immediately dispersed and turned into countless ghosts, navigating through his body and constantly emitting mind fluctuations, assaulting his mental strength.

    ¡°You are seeking death!¡±

    Unfazed, Chen Fan smiled coldly and initiated a countermove.

    All the primeval force in him suddenly contracted, converging deep into his dantian. The Devil Spirit was involuntarily pulled along and suppressed within his dantian.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Devil Spirit sensed danger. Just as it was about to try breaking out of Chen Fan¡¯s body, a furnace appeared. Its aura resembled that of hell, and it quickly swallowed the devil.

    <i>Tss, tss. Tss, tss, tss.</i>

    The mes burned the Devil Spirit, producing hissing noises that would send shivers down one''s spine.

    Miserable cries rang out from the depths of Chen Fan''s dantian.

    Typically, a martial artist faced certain death once a Devil Spirit entered them, bing a feast for the spirit. It would devour the martial artist¡¯s mind to nourish itself.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s Heaven Seizing Furnace was the Devil Spirit¡¯s nemesis.

    ¡°Such pure vitality origin aura...¡±

    As the Heaven Seizing Furnace revolved, it was useless even if the Devil Spirit had three heads and six arms or a thousand tricks. It was bound to be refined by the furnace.

    The heaven-refining mes surged, eradicating all the devil''s resentful thoughts, evil qi, and malevolent intentions. Only an exceedingly pure vitality primeval qi remained, flowing into Chen Fan.

    Evil ghosts were spiritual entities. So, once their evil qi and resentful thoughts were eliminated, only the purest vitality essence remained. To Chen Fan, this essence served as the greatest nourishment.

    The vitality from the Devil Spirit equated to the vitality essence from the corpse cores of two to three sixth-level Yuanfu realm ancient corpses.

    Chen Fan''s aura experienced a remarkable rise, bringing him to the brink of reaching the sixth level.

    ¡°These ghosts and devils are searching for fresh bodies to seize control for their use. So sad. I should let go of everything and allow them to enter me.

    ¡°I¡¯ll lure them like this and then use the Heaven Seizing Furnace to refine them all.

    ¡°These wandering ghosts are great tonics for me. They will take me to the sixth level!¡±

    A light flickered unusually brightly in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

 Chapter 232 - Advancing Once More

    <h4>Chapter 232 - Advancing Once More</h4>

    As the idea came to him, Chen Fan couldn''t help but feel a rush of emotion.

    Although the ghosts here were far fromparable to the Devil Spirit, their sheer numbers were overwhelming. If he refined all of them, the vitality essence he would gain might rival what he received from the Devil Spirit.

    Chen Fan dispersed all his powers and simultaneously unleashed his strong life force to attract more ghosts toward him.

    <i>Ooh, ooh. Ooh, ooh, ooh...</i>

    Like sharks following the scent of blood, numerous ghostly cries echoed as ghostly mes flickered in the distorted air.

    Some of these mes were as small as longan fruits, indicating weaker ghosts. Others, the size of an adult''s fist, emitted a strong energy, signifying stronger ghosts.

    A few were the size of small mounds, burning fiercely with powerful mental ripples,parable to experts in the Yuanfu realm. These ghosts possessed formidable strength and were still as strong as when they were alive.

    All of them were drawn to Chen Fan''s robust life force, drooling for his physical body.

    ¡°What a powerful body, what robust blood and qi! If I upy this body, I will be alive again. I can cultivate to an even higher realm.¡±

    A ghostly me the size of a mound emitted an intense soul ripple as it suddenly turned into an eerie wind. A fierce wind suddenly swept up, shrouding Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t resist it. He allowed the ghost to enter his body.

    The other ghostly mes immediately howled and raised eerie winds, pouncing on Chen Fan.

    ¡°It¡¯s mine, this body is mine!¡±

    ¡°What fragrant qi and blood. This is the most delicious qi and blood I¡¯ve ever smelled...¡±

    ¡°Charge! I¡¯ll take this body. I want to be reborn!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Messy and disorderly soul ripples were transmitted from those ghostly mes, carrying their intense greed.

    Chen Fan¡¯s physique was much stronger than that of ordinary martial artists. The energy in his qi and blood was also many times stronger. So, it was a delicacy and the best body for the ghosts.

    The ghostly mes nketed the sky, and eerie winds rushed toward Chen Fan, infiltrating through his seven orifices.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Crackling sounds resonated as the ghostly silhouettes umted, forming a mountain that pressed down on Chen Fan; the surrounding air copsed and exploded.

    The hideous ghostly mes scrambled to enter Chen Fan first, pushing, squeezing, punching, and kicking one another.

    ¡°Ahhh, I¡¯m going in, I¡¯m in...¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s mine. This body is mine.¡±

    ¡°I can be reborn, hahaha! I can leave the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. I will use this body to find even stronger bodies to cultivate step by step into the strongest Devil Spirit.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The ghosts that had entered Chen Fan expressed satisfaction, trying to gainplete control of him. Dull yet strong auras immediately took hold of his body, their influence extending to control his meridians.

    Individually, these ghosts were pitifully weak in front of Chen Fan.

    However, an overwhelming number of ghosts had infiltrated Chen Fan. An army of ants could even bite an elephant to death. They were everywhere.

    Chen Fan felt his soul was going a little out of control, ready to leave his body. The ghost¡¯s frigid, devilish aura froze his blood vessels. He was now at the mercy of these ghosts.

    ¡°Alright, you¡¯re all in. Refine!¡±

    Chen Fan sealed his seven orifices and activated the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Deep in his dantian, the Heaven Seizing Furnace erupted with a terrifying power.

    The ghosts that had entered Chen Fan were immediately sucked into the furnace by an invisible force and refined.

    <i>Tss, tss, tss.</i>

    <i>Ahhhhh.</i>

    Suddenly, harrowing cries that sent shivers down one''s spine echoed.

    Some ghosts, yet to be absorbed by the Heaven Seizing Furnace, sensed the impending cmity and howled, trying to rush out of the body.

    s, Chen Fan had anticipated it and preemptively sealed his orifices.

    ¡°Ah, not good, it¡¯s a trap! I want to leave. I want to leave...¡±

    ¡°Damn it. I can¡¯t leave! He sealed his orifices and pores. He¡¯s going to refine all of us. We can¡¯t sit here and do nothing. Let¡¯s join forces to rush out. Let¡¯s break through his flesh!¡±

    ¡°Charge! Break his flesh...¡±

    Some stronger ghosts roared, charging at Chen Fan¡¯s flesh in a vain attempt to rush out.

    However, there was a membrane underneath his flesh, skin, tendons, and bones. Even weapons had a hard time prating them. With these ghosts¡¯ strengths, how could they possibly break out? They were simply trying to move a wall supported by a mountain.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace worked fiercely to refine the ghosts, turning them into vitality origin essence.

    The zing heaven-refining mes were simply unstoppable. Simple contact with them would turn the ghosts into a pile of ash without their essence.

    Gradually, the amount of shrieks and cries diminished. The soul ripples roaring to break out of Chen Fan¡¯s flesh also grew weaker.

    An endless stream of vitality origin essence replenished Chen Fan¡¯s primeval force, increasing his strength.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength snowballed, and so did his aura. It rampaged uncontrobly, surging, churning, shaking heaven and earth.

    ¡°This won¡¯t do. I want to leave. I refuse to get destroyed!¡±

    The remaining ghosts cried and howled in terror, facing their imminent doom. They tried to rush out with everyst bit of their strength. Their efforts caused ghostly faces to appear on Chen Fan''s skin, creating a somewhat horrifying sight.

    It was all in vain, though. The heaven-refining mes swiftly enveloped Chen Fan, reaching every pore and orifice. The mes burned away the hiding ghosts.

    The furnace¡¯s lid closed with a bang, and they all let out their most mournful cries.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t...!¡±

    ¡°No! I¡¯m not willing to perish like this!¡±

    Chen Fan stood on the spot like an old monk meditating. His rolling aura beat the ghosts continuously.

    A strong wind swept out through heaven and earth with him in the center. The white bones on the ground became powder when they met the wind.

    Even the rolling evil qi was dispersed under the impact.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The primeval force inside Chen Fan had gone berserk.

    The surrounding malevolent energy was swept away, and within a ten-mile radius of Chen Fan, a purend emerged where no evil could prate. Not a hint of evil qi lingered, and no sinister beings could be detected.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Fueled by primeval force, a pir of light erupted from Chen Fan''s skull, dispelling a denseyer of evil qi. Upon encountering his primeval force, the evil qi melted like snow meeting a me.

    Chen Fan¡¯s primeval force surged with increased speed and ferocity.

    With a resounding plop, it resembled a flood breaching its dike. A destructive force, capable of disrupting the flow of rivers andkes and shattering the celestial bodies, burst forth.

    ¡°Sixth level!¡±

    Chen Fan opened his eyes. Two streaks of thunderous light shot out, scorching the space as if it were being burned.

 Chapter 233 - A Group of Core Disciples

    <h4>Chapter 233 - A Group of Core Disciples</h4>

    ¡°I¡¯m now a sixth-level Yuanfu realm expert.¡±

    A light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He looked around him. He had dispersed the evil qi, and he couldn''t sense a single ghost in the area.

    The evil qi was so faint now that it would take an unimaginably long time for ghosts to manifest again.

    His trip to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range had resulted in a significant surge in his cultivation.

    In only one day, he went from the fourth to the sixth level.

    ¡°Sadly, I am still not strong enough to deal with someone like Duan Jingtian.¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t let his consecutive breakthroughs cloud his judgment, maintaining a clear mindset.

    The fight on Tianmen Mountain had helped him understand Duan Jingtian¡¯s terrifying strength. Compared to him, Chen Fan was still an ant.

    ¡°I need to improve and advance further. Be even stronger. Seventh, eighth, and even the ninth level... With that cultivation, defeating a Core Formation realm expert wouldn¡¯t be possible, but they wouldn¡¯t be able to kill me easily, either.

    ¡°My goal should be to advance into the Core Formation realm as soon as possible. Duan Jingtian¡¯s already at the eighth level of the Core Formation realm. To fight against him, I have to be at the fifth or sixth level of the Core Formation realm at the very least.¡±

    Chen Fan could see the situation very clearly.

    Duan Jingtian was still enormously stronger than him. Chen Fan had to progress his cultivation nonstop to shrink the strength gap between them.

    After reaping so many benefits from the ghosts, Chen Fan found them remarkably endearing. He hoped all powerful ghosts woulde and enter him, bing his nourishment.

    This, he believed, would make entering the Core Formation realm a tangible goal.

    However, he quickly dismissed this notion. Refining the Devil Spirit and ghosts had made him stronger rapidly, but it had also destabilized his martial arts foundation. Such a path posed a significant hidden danger for his future progress.

    Chen Fan calmed his mind and sat down cross-legged. He started revolving the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. The primeval force inside him transformed into ancient wild elephant runes, fusing with his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones, strengthening his physique.

    The primeval force within his dantian resembled a vast, surging ocean but disyed a hint of instability due to the rapid cultivation elevation.

    Cultivating the Myriad Elephants Divine Art served a dual purpose¡ªit consumed significant primeval force to enhance his physique while simultaneously condensing it, addressing the instability.

    Moreover, since he was waiting for Lei Tao, Chu Tiange, and the others to show up, he decided to utilize this time to enhance his physique further and cultivate additional illusory primeval vessels.

    ......

    Deep inside the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, a group suddenly appeared in an area from a distorted space.

    ¡°Phew, we¡¯re finally out.¡± Chu Tiange turned and looked at the distorted space behind them. A look of lingering fear shed across his eyes.

    The Fountain of Life wasn''t in the depths of the mountain range but within this area. The various evil qi¡ªcorpse, ghostly, and nefarious¡ªin the surroundings had formed a special force field, distorting the space and flow of time in this area.

    This area with distorted space and time was simr to a blessednd.

    Instead of treasures, this space was filled with powerful Devil Spirits, wandering ghosts, and more.

    Chu Tiange and hispanions navigated through the area, facing various dangers, and sessfully acquired the Fountain of Life. Their mission was nowplete, and they could return to the sect.

    Leading the group was Lei Tao, a white-d man with sharp eyebrows and star-like eyes. Hismanding presence deterred even the audacious Chu Tiange. Two men and a woman apanied Lei Tao, all possessing strong auras indicative of their fifth-level cultivation.

    ¡°Our trip was sessful this time, thanks to Brother Tao. His Nine Sun Cultivation Technique is cultivated by gathering the essence of the zing sun. It is the nemesis of those demons and ghosts. Without him, we would have faced many more difficulties trying toplete the mission,¡± said a man dressed in yellow.

    ¡°Senior Brother Lei, with us seeding in obtaining the Fountain of Life, the Alliance Leader will soon advance to the ninth level of the Core Formation realm. Even the Divine Nascent realm doesn¡¯t seem too far away. We will have made great contributions,¡± said the other man with a smile.

    The woman said, ¡°The Alliance Leader will immediately take over the position of Sect Leader after advancing to the Divine Nascent realm. We¡¯re also considered long-serving members of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance; our statuses will rise ordingly in the future. Our Heaven¡¯s Alliance will rule the entire Spring Autumn Sect.¡±

    Lei Tao waved his hand and said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s return to the sect. Don¡¯t make the Alliance Leader wait too long. We have all contributed greatly bying here to retrieve the Fountain of Life. We will all be rewarded and receive nurturing from the Alliance Leader. Chu Tiange, you¡¯ve already consumed a drop of the Fountain of Life and raised your cultivation to the fifth level. Our Heaven¡¯s Alliance has gained another core disciple now. Congrattions.¡±

    The group of five rose to the skies one after another and soared off into the distance.

    ......

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    While Chen Fan was cultivating, the distant sound of rushing wind caught his attention.

    He opened his eyes and immediately saw the air rippling slightly at the mountain range¡¯s edge, revealing five figures swiftly approaching.

    Chen Fan instantly recognized Chu Tiange among the five and knew that this group was Lei Tao¡¯s group, here on Duan Jingtian¡¯s orders to retrieve the Fountain of Life.

    ¡°They¡¯ve finally appeared! Just where did they get the Fountain of Life from? Hmm? What a rich vitality aura. Chu Tiange has actually advanced to the fifth level. He has likely already tasted the Fountain of Life.¡±

    Surprise shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Hmm? There¡¯s someone here!¡±

    Lei Tao, at the front, suddenly narrowed his eyes, looking in Chen Fan¡¯s direction.

    Chu Tiange and the others all looked over.

    ¡°It¡¯s him, Chen Fan!¡±

    Chu Tiange was naturally familiar with Chen Fan, so he immediately recognized him. He couldn¡¯t help but exim in shock; he hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to make it this deep into the corpsend.

    ¡°Chen Fan? The guy who yed some tricks and set up the three-year promise with the Alliance Leader?¡± Lei Tao raised his eyebrow.

    Chu Tiange nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s him.¡±

    ¡°The Alliance Leader forbade everyone in the alliance from making a move against him for three years. Forget it. The Alliance Leader¡¯s words are thew, and members must abide by them. It is his fortune to be able to live for two more years,¡± Lei Tao said indifferently.

    It was as if Chen Fan¡¯s life or death was nothing more than a single thought in his eyes.

    Chu Tiange smiled coldly and said, ¡°Senior Brother Lei, although the Alliance Leader forbade us from killing him, crippling his cultivation should be okay. This little bastard dared to y tricks before the Alliance Leader and challenge his prestige. He deserves to die.¡±

 Chapter 234 - Killing Chu Tiange in an Instant

    <h4>Chapter 234 - Killing Chu Tiange in an Instant</h4>

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Chu Tiange moved so quickly that even his voice couldn¡¯t catch up to him; almost instantaneously, he appeared beside Chen Fan.

    ¡°Brat, you have a lot of guts toe to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range and even came all the way in here.¡± Chu Tiangeughed coldly, standing proudly in the air with his arms crossed and looking down at Chen Fan from above.

    He didn''t hold back his presence, fully releasing his fifth-level Yuanfu realm aura, pressuring heaven and earth.

    ¡°Can¡¯t I when even you people are here?¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, looking at Chu Tiange.

    Chu Tiange smiled coldly and said, ¡°Of course, you cane. I just wonder if you¡¯ll be able to leave. Alive, that is.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Lei, we...¡± said the woman, looking at Lei Tao.

    Lei Tao smiled and said, ¡°Come on, we¡¯ll go take a look. Since Chu Tiange wants to cripple this brat¡¯s cultivation, we¡¯ll just let him do as he wishes. After all, the Alliance Leader only cautioned against killing Chen Fan. ¡±

    ¡°Junior Sister Qu Ling, this kid dared to challenge the reputation of our Heaven''s Alliance and defy the Alliance Leader. He has to pay the price. We won''t kill him, just cripple his cultivation and leave him stranded. We are already doing him a favor,¡± said the yellow-clothed man, Huang Jie.

    Unexpectedly, Qu Ling said, ¡°I''m not asking for leniency on his behalf. I''m suggesting that, since we''re not within the sect, why bother going through so much trouble? Let''s just kill him and be done with it."

    ¡°Haha, we must still abide by the Alliance Leader¡¯s words.¡±

    Lei Taoughed, then flew over with the three others.

    ......

    ¡°Little bastard, you had toplicate matters for yourself. I can¡¯t do much to you in the sect. I have to abide by Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s words even here, but I can cripple your cultivation.

    ¡°I am really curious. Can a cripple get out of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range alive? Let¡¯s find out.¡±

    Chu Tiangeughed coldly.

    ¡°Cripple my cultivation?¡±

    The corners of Chen Fan¡¯s lips drew back, forming a mocking smile. ¡°Chu Tiange, where do you get that confidence from? Let me tell you why I''m here. You guys. I am here for you guys."

    ¡°Oh? What does that mean?¡±

    Chu Tiange''s cold smile faltered, a glint of coldness passing through his eyes.

    Chen Fan looked at him and said, ¡°Chu Tiange, let me spare you the agony of dying clueless. Haven''t you been on the hunt for a masked man? Well, take a good look at this."

    Chen Fan revealed a mask and promptly donned it.

    ¡°It¡¯s you! That mysterious masked man is you!¡±

    Chu Tiange''s agitation spiked, his voice turning piercingly sharp.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly.

    ¡°Damn it! You deserve to die!¡±

    Chu Tiange could no longer suppress the fury in his heart. His raging killing intent surged to the skies, stirring the wind and clouds. The mournful sounds of wind blowing rang out in heaven and earth.

    Two streaks of thunderous sword light shed toward Chen Fan. A terrifying, thunderous sword intent erupted from Chu Tiange, sweeping out and whistling. The atmosphere turned grim.

    ¡°So, it was you! How astonishing! Fine! Since you took the initiative to reveal yourself, you won¡¯t make it out alive! Even if it means going against Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s words, I must kill you!¡±

    Chu Tiange¡¯s words were filled with an eerie killing intent.

    He wanted to kill that mysterious masked man. Badly.

    He had been investigating that mysterious masked man. However, he had disappeared like a ghost after their encounter. There weren¡¯t any leads. This matter almost became a heart demon.

    ¡°Kill me? You failed to do so that day. And today won¡¯t be any different,¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°Such shameless words! Little bastard, you managed to run away back then, but today, you can not run anywhere. You probably have no idea what it''s like to face someone at the fifth level. Today, I''ll make you understand as you meet your end!!¡± Chu Tiange said viciously.

    ¡°You¡¯re right. There is indeed no way to run away. Today, you will die!¡± Chen Fan suddenly took to the skies. Heaven Piercing Spear condensed in his hand, stabbing toward Chu Tiange.

    ¡°It really is you!¡±

    The Heaven Piercing Spear proved to Chu Tiange that Chen Fan wasn¡¯t lying.

    A surge of sword intent emanated from him as he unsheathed his sword with a resounding shwing. Thunderous noises crackled as he initiated the Thunderous Note Sword Technique, shing fiercely.

    ¡°Thunderous Note Sword Technique, sh!¡±

    Having advanced to the fifth level, Chu Tiange felt confident. Even if Chen Fan had broken through to the fourth level, he was definitely no match for him.

    The gap between the fourth and fifth levels of Yuanfu was vast and challenging to ovee.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    However, as an icy voice rang out, Chu Tiange¡¯s expression immediately stiffened.

    He saw that his powerful sword qi had quickly copsed. It was as weak as tofu, unable to withstand a single blow.

    ¡°Die, Chu Tiange!¡±

    The icy voice resounded in Chu Tiange¡¯s eardrums.

    Then, he saw a terrifying aura erupting from Chen Fan, making him feel like an ancient divine mountain was pressing down on him.

    His pupils reflected the terrifying thrust of the Heaven Piercing Spear, pulling his mind into it like a ck hole.

    ¡°Impossible? How could you be this powerful?¡±

    Chu Tiange bit the tip of his tongue, forcing himself toe to his senses. He found himself enveloped in the overwhelming aura of Chen Fan''s spear. It felt like being trapped in a quagmire, hindering his movements and inducing terror in his voice.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible! Did you think you¡¯re a match for me just because you¡¯ve advanced to the fifth level? If I hadn''t avoided a long fight with you in Lon Ancient Imperial City, you would have died then. Consider yourself fortunate that I let you live for so long.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice was iparably cold. He didn¡¯t hold back on his attack at all.

    ¡°Lei Tao, save me!¡±

    Chu Tiange finally realized the difference in strength between them. Faced with the threat of death, he immediately yelled for help, his voice rolling out.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    Lei Tao was taking his time flying over when he saw Chu Tiange suddenly fall into a deathly crisis. Fierce light immediately erupted from his eyes.

    With a swish, he elerated, leaving only a blur behind.

    ¡°Little bastard, you dare?!¡± He shouted so loudly that it left heaven and earth trembling.

    <i>C!</i>

    A ming de qi simultaneously sliced through the air, hurtling toward Chen Fan. The very atmosphere ignited, creating a ze.

    Chen Fan sensed an intense danger. Even so, he didn¡¯t withdraw his attack.

    While he continued the attack on Chu Tiange, he also executed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. Surging power directly rushed out, shing with that oing ming de qi.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Immediately, a deafening explosion rang out. The qi swept out in all directions, smashing into the nearby mountain peaks and blowing them up, boulders rolling down.

    ¡°No!¡± Chu Tiange¡¯s desperate voice resounded.

    With a squish, the Heaven Piercing Spear stabbed the middle of Chu Tiange¡¯s brow.

    When the force erupted, Chu Tiange¡¯s head exploded like a watermelon with a boom.

 Chapter 235 - Crushed Overwhelmingly

    <h4>Chapter 235 - Crushed Overwhelmingly</h4>

    ¡°Damn it! Bastard, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Lei Tao had unleashed his cultivation and was rushing toward Chi Tiange. He became furious when Chi Tiange was killed right before his eyes. His voice rolled out, shaking heaven and earth and making the air boom.

    <i>Poof, poof!</i>

    Boundless crimson me light came tearing through the air. His fierce momentum made Chen Fan feel like an ancient deste beast was targeting him and would kill him if he showed the slightest bit of carelessness.

    Chen Fan''s gaze slightly dimmed as he countered with a spear thrust backhandedly.

    Terrifying power surged out like an enormous wave, piercing through the void and attacking the iing whistling de qi.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air erupted with a deafening boom. The crimson ming de qi disintegrated into numerous embers, descending.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Finally, Lei Tao was before Chen Fan. He stared coldly at Chen Fan, his killing intent so strong that his immediate surroundings froze.

    ¡°You little bastard, you killed Chu Tiange! You dare kill an alliance member?!¡±

    Unfazed, he looked at Lei Tao and said, ¡°Yes, I do dare to kill them. You know what? None of you will get to leave the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range alive today. I will kill you all precisely because you are from the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. You will die because you decided to work for Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°What arrogance!¡±

    ¡°Shameless boasting!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Qu Ling, Huang Jie, and Hong Tao also flew over, forming a four-directional formation with Lei Tao to trap Chen Fan in the middle.

    The mocking looks on their faces had vanished, reced by piercing stares fixated on Chen Fan.

    A chilling intent emanated from them, waiting for Lei Tao''smand to unleash their most aggressive attacks on Chen Fan.

    With great equanimity, Chen Fan nced at the four and smiled. ¡°Are you all here? Good. Killing Chu Tiange? That just wasn¡¯t enough; you all will have to die. Also, that Fountain of Life you went through so much trouble to obtain? Mine.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death! You dare covet the Alliance Leader¡¯s Fountain of Life! Just uttering those words seals your fate today!¡±

    Lei Tao''s eyes shot forth a sharp light, deeming Chen Fan''s desire for Duan Jingtian''s Fountain of Life audacious and deserving of death.

    ¡°Senior Brother Lei, why bother wasting your breath on him? We have him surrounded. Let¡¯s use our strongest attack to make him disappear. Let¡¯s ensure he can¡¯t be a ghost or even a jiangshi.¡±

    The woman, Qu Ling, had a fiery temper and wanted to strike immediately.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you losers want to kill me? All by yourself? Well, the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range has a unique environment. If I don¡¯t annihte you, there really is a chance of you turning into jiangshis or ghosts in the future and causing harm in the world!¡±

    Chen Fan raised the Heaven Piercing Spear, its tip pointing upward, seemingly ready to pierce the sky.

    In a sh, Chen Fan appeared before Qu Ling, thrusting the spear violently.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Lei Tao was enraged as Chen Fan had audaciously initiated the attack despite being surrounded.

    mes erupted from his Crimson me de, fiercely scorching the air and making it copse.

    ¡°zing World!¡±

    Lei Tao directly executed a killing move, shing down on Chen Fan.

    The rolling mes were like heavenly fire, surging and rumbling, shaking the space. The de qi came rolling like a ming meteorite.

    Chen Fan simply ignored Lei Tao¡¯s attack.

    He thrust the Heaven Piercing Spear with immense power¡ªalmost overwhelming power¡ªto take Qu Ling¡¯s life.

    Qu Ling felt as if her soul was pinned in ce, unable to move an inch.

    She felt drained of all her strength, leaving her helpless against the oing spear.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Like a knife passing through tofu, Qu Ling failed to evade, and the spear pierced her. As the force rippled out, she burst like a watermelon.

    A fifth-level Yuanfu realm expert was dead just like that.

    Chen Fan was using his full strength.

    His cultivation level already surpassed Qu Ling''s, and with the eruption of his aura, an oppressive force descended upon her. Moreover, the Heaven Piercing Spear could captivate the mind, rendering Qu Ling powerless to resist.

    ¡°Qu Ling!¡±

    The trio¡¯s eyes went wide with anger. Killing intent surged from them, rushing at Chen Fan. Their berserk attacks swept across the sky, trying to drown out Chen Fanpletely.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    A roar came from Chen Fan, rumbling like thunder.

    Lei Tao and the others¡¯ auras surged, but Chen Fan¡¯s aura overpowered theirs. He shook, his bones produced cracking noises, and the trumpets of dragon-elephants rang out.

    Layers of powerful spear silhouettes pressed forward, carrying a heaven-piercing aura as they swept forth, stabbing straight ahead. It suppressed and destroyed everything in its path.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying sounds of explosions immediately rang out, spreading far and wide.

    Lei Tao let out a roar. The soundwaves were powerful enough to shock a herd of beasts to death. If he had let out this roar in a mountain forest, the wild beasts within a ten-mile radius would have fainted from the shock.

    ¡°Fire God¡¯s Wrath!¡±

    His de style changed, bing even fiercer.

    Numerous de qi whistled, coalescing into a three-legged golden crow above his head.

    Aze with sun-like mes, Lei Tao seemed to have transformed into a fire deity traversing the mortal realm, wielding a ming de that cleaved mountains, leaving scorched earth in its wake.

    A de light, flickering like the wrathful mes of the sky, surged toward Chen Fan.

    The attack was devastating, fierce, and unstoppable. When facing this, everyone would only have a single thought in their head: dodge.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t try to dodge. Instead, he chose to sh with him head-on, raising his spear.

    Chen Fan thrust his spear straight, channeling his strength like mighty rivers, apanied by the trumpets of dragon-elephants.

    A herd of ancient wild elephants seemed to have manifested on his back, trampling the earth. Their footsteps caused the air to tremble and the skies to shake.

    Even the space was trampled by his powers.

    All his strength was gathered at a single point, erupting from the tip of the Heaven Piercing Spear, possessing the power to pierce through the skies.

    Without hesitation, the Heaven Piercing Spear shed again with the trio¡¯s auras.

    <i>Swish...</i>

    The sound of pouring rain rang out briefly. Stabbed by Chen Fan¡¯s spear, the de qi formed from the sun¡¯s me broke apart.

    The three-legged golden crow above Lei Tao¡¯s head crumbled at once, and he was forced ten thousand meters back.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Huang Jie and Hong Tao fared even worse.

    Their cultivation was simr to Qu Ling, only at the fifth level.

    Their attacks were instantly crushed and destroyed. A terrifying force swept through the air, smashing into them like a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain. Their organs were either crushed or shifted, they spewed outrge amounts of blood, and their cultivation withered.

    If it weren¡¯t for Chen Fan primarily aiming for Lei Tao, the two would have followed in Chu Tiange and Qu Ling¡¯s footsteps.

 Chapter 236 - A Devastating Thrust

    <h4>Chapter 236 - A Devastating Thrust</h4>

    Chen Fan dealt with three from the group with one attack each. Wielding the Heaven Piercing Spear, he stood proudly in the air, looking at them ruthlessly with a cold smile. ¡°You lot think you can kill me? Wishful thinking! Now, I¡¯ll send you three to reunite with them!¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The Wings of Rain Dragon sprouted on his back as his voice fell. With one powerful p, a strong gust of wind surged.

    Chen Fan turned into a streak of light, crossing ten thousand meters in the blink of an eye, appearing in front of Huang Jie.

    ¡°Die!¡± he uttered a single syble; it resembled the call from the grim reaper.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear shattered the heavens, annihting the sun, the moon, and the stars. It echoed like the cry of a deity, signaling the demise of a god.

    Huang Jie''s face showed terror, his eyes reflecting boundless fear.

    He instantly ignored his internal injuries and drove his cultivation, trying to make a final gambit. Even his primeval vessel had manifested, burning his primeval force.

    Still, a squish sound rang out, like paper being torn.

    Huang Jie¡¯s movements froze, and he broke like a mirror. He couldn¡¯t even cry out.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t pause. With a sh, he rushed toward Hong Tao.

    Hong Tao¡¯splexion was ghastly pale, without the slightest hint of pink.

    Killing them was truly as simple as ughtering poultry for Chen Fan.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t...¡±

    Hong Tao did manage to cry out, only two words, though.

    Lei Tao¡¯splexion had long changed colors.

    Huang Jie and Hong Tao had both died instantly; he was the only one left.

    As Chen Fan approached Lei Tao, an ominous aura descended. Lei Tao''s resolve wavered, and fear took root in his heart.

    In his eyes, Chen Fan resembled a merciless god of death, an unstoppable force.

    However, Lei Tao was at the peak of the seventh level. He was a core disciple. He was an elder of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance. He quickly suppressed the wavering in his heart, recing it with boundless rage.

    ¡°Wind Forest Fire Mountain!¡± [1]

    Nine brilliant suns rose at his back, illuminating the world.

    As they spun, a tumultuous power surged from within him, akin to a roaring furnace.

    Chen Fan paid no heed, unleashing his full strength. All three of his illusory primeval vessels spun, surpassing the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm in power. Even Lei Tao was not exempt from the overwhelming force.

    It was only a simple and crude stab, but it made the space tremble, seemingly having difficulty enduring the might of Chen Fan''s spear. The air recoiled, surging toward Lei Tao like an impending monstrous wave.

    Lei Tao¡¯s cultivation ignited the space before him, transforming it into the image of Wind Forest Fire Mountain. However, it was in vain under Chen Fan¡¯s Heaven Piercing Spear.

    Everything was annihted.

    Lei Tao¡¯s expression changed once more. Fear resurfaced in his eyes.

    ¡°Power of Nine Suns, erupt for me! sh!¡± Lei Tao roared angrily.

    The nine brilliant suns behind him erupted in unison with scorching, dazzling light, making his aura surge and twist the space.

    Swinging his de violently, he unleashed a mighty attack, the nine suns following. The air currents burned and copsed while the space contorted as if trying to banish Chen Fan to another dimension.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The de qi was extremely fierce, tearing through everything.

    The nine suns exploded one after another, setting off a terrifying shockwave and shaking the surroundings. The ground cracked, and the cracks spread out in all directions.

    ¡°Heaven Breaking Force!¡±

    Chen Fan revolved his divine art, shaking his arm repeatedly and creating a mountain of spear silhouettes,yering upon one another.

    It was as if all the powers in heaven and earth were drawn into his spear. His spear seemed heavy and fierce.

    The air boomed. It seemed like the earth was about to be flipped over, and the stars would fall like rain.

    This aura generated an oppressive dominance as if Chen Fan were the ruler of heaven and earth at that moment.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan thrust his spear. The heaven and earth shook; the wind and clouds stirred.

    Everything shattered, returning to nothingness.

    Lei Tao¡¯splexion was ghastly pale. He retreated repeatedly; ultimately, he spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood.

    Chen Fan did not stop there.

    The spear strike represented the peak of his strength, unleashing rolling powers that surged like the sound of ten thousand horses galloping through heaven and earth.

    At his back, ancient wild elephants hissed in unison, their trunks curling and swinging. Stars fell one after another; the phenomenon was unusually magnificent.

    A ck hole spun at the spear''s tip¡ªa mind-shocking sight.

    Lei Tao felt as if his soul had be unstable. It tried to break free from his body and fly into that ck hole.

    However, he immediately revolved his cultivation and suppressed it. Appalled, a look of despair shed in his eyes.

    His primeval vessel emerged above his head.

    The rolling primeval force within transformed into surging mes, burning fiercely. His aura broke through the shackles instantly, reaching the peak of the seventh level.

    His aura reached a new peak; his eyes burned with determination.

    The Crimson me de in his hand transformed into a mass of zing fire, burning fiercely. The air currents burned to the point of producing a sharp hiss.

    ¡°Die for me, you little bastard!¡±

    Lei Tao¡¯s aura reached its peak.

    The primeval force within his vessel and the vessel itself stirred with mes. Endless power poured into him, igniting raging mes on him. His Crimson me de echoed the cry of a golden crow, its mes resembling three-legged golden crows. As he shed it down, the de qi flowed like silk, resembling a sea tide, sweeping outward.

    ¡°Parting Waves ming sh!¡±

    This was Lei Tao¡¯s strongest move.

    With one sh, mountains burned, and seas boiled. The space within a ten-mile radius seemed to turn into a sea of mes. A streak of de qi suddenly emerged from those mes, parting the sea of mes.

    Chen Fan felt his muscles tighten under this sh. He felt a burning pain on his skin. An unparalleled ming de qi was reflected in his eyes, tearing through the space anding straight at him.

    ¡°Come at me!¡±

    However, Chen Fan was overjoyed to see his prey.

    His strength instantly poured out like a flood. Even the skies let out a furious roar.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A deafening noise resounded, shaking heaven and earth. Even the stars were trembling.

    Lei Tao shed out. His entire body was drenched in sweat, but that instantly evaporated.

    Hisplexion was ashen. The mes burning in his primeval vessel started extinguishing. He was already at the point of exhaustion.

    Bent at the waist, he gazed at Chen Fan, who was enveloped in mes

    <i>This sh should be enough to kill Chen Fan, right?</i>

    However...

    <i>Poof tch!</i>

    A spear tip suddenly extended out from the mes. The zing inferno seemed to have encountered a downpour; it extinguished immediately.

    Chen Fan thrust his spear and stabbed the middle of Lei Tao¡¯s brow.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Lei Tao was in utter disbelief.

    He stared fixedly at Chen Fan, but the force erupting from the Heaven Piercing Spear tore his soul. The light in his eyes and the fire in his soul instantly went out.

    An exceptional genius at the peak-stage seventh-level Yuanfu realm perished just like that.

    1. Originates from Sun-Tzu¡¯s Art of War. It means to be swift as the wind, abundant as the forest, invasive as fire, and unmoving as a mountain. You may have also seen it mentioned in some Japanese works, such as Furinkazan. ?

 Chapter 237 - Returning to the Clan Again

    <h4>Chapter 237 - Returning to the n Again</h4>

    Lei Tao''s eyes lost their light, but his face still showed his unwillingness to die like this.

    With a blow from his palm, Chen Fan pulverized Lei Tao¡¯s corpse. He didn¡¯t want it to turn into a jiangshi and cause harm to the world.

    Chen Fan caught a falling storage ring.

    A trace of primeval force entered the storage ring with a thought from Chen Fan and Lei Tao¡¯s storage ring opened.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    In Chen Fan''s grasp appeared a gourd exuding a potent vitality aura.

    The gourd was only a foot tall but was as heavy as a mountain. Even a Qi Grandmaster couldn¡¯t have held it; it could likely crush one to death.

    Chen Fan uncorked the gourd. Instantly, a powerful vitality aura surged forth, infusing life into the surroundings.

    ¡°What a strong vitality aura. As expected of the Fountain of Life!¡± Chen Fan corked the gourd, his eyes shing with excitement.

    A gourd full of liquid from the Fountain of Life was enough for Chen Fan to make significant progress. His flesh and blood were screaming, asking him to just finish the entire gourd.

    The source of all life. The sacred fluid that nurtured all existence¡ªthe Fountain of Life.

    Every drop of the Fountain of Life was tens of times heavier than mercury.

    ¡°The Fountain of Life is excellent stuff. With this, I have thrown a wrench¡ªno, the entire toolbox in Duan Jingtian¡¯s n to quickly advance to the ninth level of the Core Formation realm. I bought quite a bit of time for myself here.¡±

    Chen Fan enveloped the gourd in his primeval force, worried that the heavy fluid inside might break it.

    Unlike spatial treasures, this gourd was a simple metallic tool without any profound qualities.

    ¡°Moreover, the Fountain of Life is holy water. Although Duan Jingtian discovered the location of the Fountain of Life, this kind of thing is not abundant. I think that even this little amount took years or maybe even decades to gather.¡±

    A cold look of amusement showed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Duan Jingtian''s n to make Lei Tao and the others get the Fountain of Life had backfired. It had ended up helping Chen Fan instead.

    If Duan Jingtian were to find out Chen Fan was the one behind this, he would probably throw up blood from anger.

    ¡°With the Fountain of Life, I can make my n even stronger, even quicker. A drop of the Fountain of Life is enough to produce a Qi Grandmaster.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    After putting away the Fountain of Life, Chen Fan sped off, flying toward the edge of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    Now that he had foiled Duan Jingtian¡¯s n, Chen Fan could return to his n.

    He was very concerned about his n. He needed to run the family well and settle it before fully immersing himself in cultivation.

    If his n were not strong enough, Chen Fan would always feel a bit distracted.

    After his recent advancements, his speed with the Wings of Rain Dragon was now more than a hundred times faster.

    Chen Fan sped through the sea of clouds as if he were chasing the stars and the moon, ripping through the atmosphere as he covered a thousand miles in a sh.

    Being a sixth-level Yuanfu realm cultivator, he was an expert among experts.

    Moreover, if hebined everything he had up his sleeves, he was nearly on par with great experts in the eighth-level Yuanfu realm. This formidable cultivation tranted into terrifying speed when he gave it his all.

    Initially, Chen Fan''s flight was apanied by loud noises as his primeval force interacted vigorously with the atmosphere, creating thunderous rumbles and fiery disys akin to aet descending to the ground.

    However, as he continued, his flight became quieter. He left a ck streak in his wake as if he existed in a separate dimension.

    All the energy was withdrawn to a single point; there were no leaks.

    Chen Fan''s control over his strength had significantly improved, a lesson learned from the overwhelming attack that killed Lei Tao.

    Often, battles between martial artists became very loud. This was because many peoplecked control over their power, so when they attacked, their energy dispersed into the air rather than being concentrated in the attack.

    Chen Fan had realized something from that extraordinary attack and practiced that concept while flying, controlling his strength, focusing it, gaining full control, and channeling it precisely to achieve maximum impact.

    Sometimes, when he felt like it, he would descend from the sea of clouds and fly around a mountaintop. Then, a boom would ring out from that mountaintop, followed by the mountain splitting horizontally and andslide.

    ¡°Indeed, focusing my strength on one object will help me greatly increase my attacking power.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up, pleased.

    This was like using fine steel to make the edge of a weapon. [1]

    After flying for half the night, Chen Fan slowed down when the sky was about to turn bright. Looking down from the sky, he saw that Watermoon City was already within sight.

    Watermoon City buzzed with activity. The sun hadn¡¯t fully risen, but the city gates were open, and a flurry of movement filled the streets.

    Countless peddlers from other cities entered the city to trade, andmoners also entered to get supplies or run small businesses.

    At the heart of Watermoon City, lights illuminated a lively scene within a huge mansion.

    Many Chen n descendants had already gotten up and were practicing.

    The guards and maids outside were all in order, following the rules and regtions.

    Chen Fan quickly descended and created a whirlwind, immediately rming the countless private troops in the mansion.

    The ttering of running footsteps echoed, apanied by the sounds of bows being drawn and weapons unsheathed as the private troops went into full alert.

    Surveying the unfamiliar faces, Chen Fan recognized them as newly recruited private troops.

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan!¡±

    A young girl, Chen Qingqing, emerged from the crowd, expressing surprise and joy at the sight of Chen Fan. She rushed toward him. The brothers Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong also saw Chen Fan and shouted joyfully.

    ¡°Young Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Young Patriarch!¡±

    Hearing the two senior officers referring to Chen Fan as ¡°Young Patriarch,¡± the private troops hurriedly put their weapons away and knelt on the ground in unison. ¡°Please pardon us, Young Patriarch. We had no idea it was you...¡±

    ¡°Get up, all of you. You have done very well. You did not disappoint me. Every one of you shall be rewarded.¡± Chen Fan waved his hand.

    These people were vignt and did not disappoint Chen Fan.

    The private troops immediately revealed looks of joy and hurriedly thanked him.

    ¡°Many thanks, Young Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan, what brought you back?¡± Chen Qingqing approached Chen Fan and hugged his arm, shaking it.

    Chen Fan tousled Chen Qingqing¡¯s head and said, ¡°I missed you guys, so I came back to visit you. You haven¡¯t been cking off, I see. Your cultivation is already at the sixth level. Keep it up and try to be a Qi Grandmaster or even enter the Yuanfu realm as soon as possible.

    ¡°Heehee.¡±

    Chen Qingqing was very happy to hear Chen Fan praising her.

    Chen Fan looked toward Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong. He nodded and said, ¡°Not bad, you have both be Qi Grandmasters.¡±

    The n''s efforts in nurturing them over the past half-year had led to significant improvements for individuals like Chen Qingqing, Chen Yunchong, and Chen Hualong.

    1. A proverb meaning to concentrate quality resources on the most important parts that would produce a better result. ?

 Chapter 238 - Martial Infusion

    <h4>Chapter 238 - Martial Infusion</h4>

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing also came over.

    ¡°Father,¡± greeted Chen Fan. When he sensed Chen Zhengqing¡¯s cultivation, he couldn¡¯t help but furrow his brow, as his father was still at the fourth level.

    The Sun Stone was meant to enhance his cultivation technique, but Chen Zhengqing hadn''t advanced as expected. The sr energy in the stone should have been enough for Chen Zhengqing to advance to the fifth level in six months.

    ¡°Come on, Xiaofan. Let¡¯s talk inside.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing, pleased at Chen Fan''s return, pulled on Chen Fan¡¯s arm and walked toward the main hall.

    The Chen n¡¯s private troops all looked at Chen Fan¡¯s back and whispered among themselves. Although newly enlisted, they were familiar with his legendary deeds.

    In the Chen n, he had almost be a myth.

    Latest year, he had revitalized the n, and vanquished Xuanyang City''s Tan and Liu ns. He even defied the heavens by killing a first-level Yuanfu realm expert with only Qi Grandmaster cultivation. He then led an expedition to Watermoon City to annihte the Lin n.

    Every one of those feats was legendary and fascinating.

    Chen Fan was the backbone and spiritual leader of the entire Chen n now.

    Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing, and the others walked into the main hall. Chen Fan immediately asked, ¡°Father, what happened to your cultivation? Logically speaking, you should have advanced to the fifth level by now.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing did not hide anything from Chen Fan. He sighed and said, ¡°Xiaofan, although the Buddhist Bone Relic has restored my primeval vessel, it still has some cracks.

    ¡°The Sun Stone did help me advance to the fourth level, but advancing further would be difficult for me.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded in understanding.

    Chen Zhengqing''s recovery was iplete. The cracks in his primeval vessel hindered further advancement in his cultivation.

    Chen Zhengqing could be confined to the fourth level for life if this issue wasn¡¯t resolved.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Father, now that I am here, I willpletely resolve this hidden injury. The crack is a minor issue. This time, I have brought an incredible treasure. It can increase the overall strength of our n and relieve your concerns.¡±

    A heavy gourd weighing more than ten thousand jinnded on the floor, producing a thunderous sound.

    The floor slightly caved, and the hall''s walls and pirs trembled as if on the verge of copse.

    ¡°Xiaofan, this is...¡±

    Chen Zhengqing looked at the iron gourd; his pupils contracted when he sensed a thick vitality aura emanating from it.

    Chen Fan grabbed the iron gourd, picked it up, and slowly uncorked it with his primeval force. A drop of dreamy, colorful fluid flew out from it, radiating all sorts of mysterious lights.

    Chen Fan slowly enveloped the drop with his primeval force and brought it close.

    It was indeed very heavy. A drop of the fluid weighed tens, if not a hundred, of jin.

    Ingesting the fluid directly would undoubtedly corrode one''s organs, but utilizing primeval force or primeval qi to refine it could turn it into vitality essence that could clear meridians.

    ¡°Father, Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, Qingqing, sit properly. Focus, revolve your cultivation, and rx your body. I¡¯ll help you!¡± Chen Fan dered, prompting immediatepliance from Chen Zhengqing, Chen Yunchong, and the others.

    Four drops of Fountain of Life flew out with a flick of his finger.

    Driven by his primeval force, the fluid dispersed and transformed into a fog. It manifested various mirages, like fishes evolving into dragons, in the air, all pulsating with vitality.

    With a flip of his hand, he thrust the four dreamy mirages into Chen Zhengqing and the others.

    The Fountain of Life unleashed a surge of vitality, purifying their bodies and expelling impurities, apanied by a foul odor.

    With a wave of his hand, Chen Fan generated a strong wind, dispersing the unpleasant scent. His gaze remained fixed on Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and Chen Qingqing.

    Chen Zhengqing absorbed the energy in the drop to repair the cracks mainly. Being a Yuanfu realm expert, he also didn¡¯t have to worry about the drop¡¯s weight, which was about a thousand jin.

    On the other hand, Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and Chen Qingqing had low cultivation levels and needed Chen Fan to look after them.

    The first person to show changes was Chen Qingqing.

    She was only at the sixth level of the Qigong realm. The drop contained a terrifying amount of energy. As soon as it dissolved, it immediately rushed out and began to cleanse her body, transforming her aura. Her cultivation aura also began to surge rapidly.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Just like rising waters, Chen Qingqing¡¯s aura kept skyrocketing.

    Peak of the sixth level.

    Seventh level.

    Very soon, it went up to the eighth level!

    This wasn¡¯t the end, however. A mass of qi current rushed out from Chen Qingqing¡¯s skull, reaching for the clouds.

    Qi Grandmaster!

    Suddenly, Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong cried out loud. Their muscles swelled, seemingly trying to break out of their skin.

    A single drop from the Fountain of Life could greatly enhance one¡¯s vitality.

    If a drop were dropped onto a sapling''s roots, it would grow to look like a tree thousands of years old in just a few days.

    However, no one would be extravagant enough to use the Fountain of Life for irrigation, not even if those nts were rare spiritual herbs.

    Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong were already Qi Grandmasters. Chen Fan¡¯s purpose for injecting them with a drop from the Fountain of Life each was to help them advance to the Yuanfu realm and raise the level of their vitality.

    ¡°Focus and silence your minds. Do not get distracted. Perceive heaven and earth andprehend it, form your primeval vessel...¡± Chen Fan''smanding voice resonated, striking Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong like a club.

    Simultaneously, his primeval force surged into their bodies like a tide. The Fountain of Lifepensated for theirck of primeval force. It had essentially given them a hundred years'' worth of cultivation, forcefully elevating their primeval force to the standard of the Yuanfu realm.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A powerful qi current erupted. A primeval vessel suddenly appeared above Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong¡¯s heads, glistening with an immortal light and evoking a sense of marvel.

    Their respective primeval vessels floated over their heads, resonating with each other.

    They blossomed with rays of luster that intertwined with their primeval vessels, gradually solidifying them.

    The primeval qi of heaven and earth formed numerous vortexes, surrounding Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong and swirling. Then, their auras started climbing up. Their bodies underwent a cleansing and transformation.

    Chen Fan waved his hand once more. Large amounts of primeval stones appeared, which then burst open. The primeval qi turned into a storm, rushing into them.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Their primeval vessels soon condensedpletely and were withdrawn into them. The two had finally entered the Yuanfu realm.

    ¡°Good! The work is done! The Fountain of Life is indeed extraordinary. A single drop is enough to let a Qi Grandmaster advance to the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    Chen Fan was thrilled to see Chen Hualong and Chen Yunchong advance to the Yuanfu realm.

    The Chen n now had two more Yuanfu realm experts in their ranks, a cause for great celebration.

 Chapter 239 - City Clash Convention

    <h4>Chapter 239 - City sh Convention</h4>

    ¡°Many thanks, Young Patriarch!¡±

    Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong opened their eyes.

    Their faces were flushed with excitement, and they could hardly contain their joy.

    To them, Yuanfu realm experts used to be characters from legends, someone they rarely encountered in real life.

    Even bing a Qi Grandmaster seemed beyond their wildest dreams.

    Now, not only had they entered the Qi Grandmaster realm, but they broke through it and became Yuanfu realm experts themselves. They were now the legendary figures they had once heard of.

    All of this was credited to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Alright, your qi has steadily entered your primeval vessel. Cultivate hard from now on. If you protect the sect faithfully, advancing further won¡¯t just be a dream,¡± said Chen Fan as he slowly withdrew his primeval force.

    ¡°We brothers will definitely devote ourselves to the n!¡± Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong patted their chests.

    They had no room for second thoughts. If Chen Fan could grant them such power, they were sure he could take them back just as easily.

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan, I-I am a Qi Grandmaster...¡±

    Chen Qingqing¡¯s aura had also finally stabilized. She opened her eyes; they flickered in disbelief.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. You are a Qi Grandmaster now.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    A single drop from the Fountain of Life contained a terrifying amount of energy. After consuming one drop, Chen Qingqing went from the sixth level to the ninth level¡ªa consecutive, three-level advancement.

    If not for Chen Fan''s intervention, it could have even pushed her to the peak stage of the Qi Grandmaster realm. However, he, considering her well-being, restrained this excessive growth.

    After all, he had saved Chen Qingqing using his precious blood, essentially rebuilding her with enhanced martial talent. Her talents were now only second to Chen Fan¡¯s, so she was even more talented than Chen Zhengqing.

    He did not want to waste the potential of a genius of the Chen n by his own hands.

    ¡°Girl, don¡¯t ck off now. Although I helped you be a Qi Grandmaster, this has also made your foundation a bit unstable. Spend some time consolidating your foundation. Don¡¯t try to advance to the next level for a while, you understand?¡± Chen Fan urged.

    The Chen n had abundant resources now, and Chen Qingqing, being a valued talent, could request anything she needed. Since Chen Qingqing was still young, Chen Fan feared that the temptation to advance quickly would lead her astray.

    Chen Qingqing nodded heavily and said, ¡°Rest assured, Big Brother Chen Fan. I will keep it in mind and not disappoint you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded.

    Then, his gaze shifted toward Chen Zhengqing. He grabbed at the air. Three more drops of the Fountain of Life flew out, and Chen Fan thrust them into Chen Zhengqing.

    Gradually, those cracks in Chen Zhengqing¡¯s primeval vessel in his dantian disappeared as the drops worked to mend them. Soon, the vessel blossomed withyers of immortal light.

    About an hourter, Chen Zhengqing finished refining all the drops and slowly opened his eyes.

    ¡°Father, how is it?¡± Chen Fan immediately asked.

    Chen Zhengqing nodded. A look of confidence surfaced in his eyes as he said, ¡°It¡¯s perfect now. I''ll soon reach the fifth level."

    The primeval vessel''s surface cracks were gone, removing the obstacles in his martial arts path. The Sun Stone further increased his confidence.

    Once he reached the fifth level,bined with his previously cultivated illusionary primeval vessels, he believed he could dominate Watermoon City effortlessly. He could even overpower two experienced fifth-level Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°That would be great.¡±

    Chen Fan was pleased to hear that. He took out several storage rings and handed them to Chen Zhengqing. ¡°Father, I confiscated these treasures from the blood-sucking bandits in the northwesternnd.¡±

    Upon examining the contents, Chen Zhengqing was astonished and remarked, ¡°This... This is too much!¡±

    After quite a while, Chen Zhengqing slowly returned to his senses and exhaled a turbid breath.

    Their Chen n had risen to power by trampling the Tan, Liu, and Lin ns and plundering their fortunes. However, that wealth seemed insignificantpared to what was in the storage rings.

    ¡°Father, this storage ring contains some precious elixirs. Aside from you and Grandfather, only Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong have advanced to the Yuanfu realm within the n¡ª¡±

    Before Chen Fan could finish his sentence, he was interrupted by Chen Zhengqing. ¡°What? The two of you have advanced to the Yuanfu realm?¡±

    Chen Yunchong and Chen Hualong nodded and said, ¡°We just advanced, thanks to the young patriarch¡¯s help.¡±

    ¡°Good! Very good! Our Chen n now has four Yuanfu realm experts¡ªno, five!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing roared withughter, almost forgetting to include Chen Fan, the strongest of them all.

    Chen Zhengqing couldn''t clearly discern Chen Fan''s current cultivation level. However, he believed that his son had likely surpassed him in strength.

    ¡°Father, these few Yuanfu realm powerhouses are still not enough. I have obtained several Realm Breaking Pills, Nine Revolution Golden Pills, and other precious elixirs. I n to pick out a few more people and use them for martial infusion to raise their cultivation levels.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll have it arranged right away! I had no idea what to do when the other martial ns invited our Chen n to participate in the City sh Convention.¡±

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrow and asked, ¡°Oh? The City sh Convention?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing exined, ¡°It''s an event where the younger generation of martial ns in Watermoon City gather for a meeting and apetition. This time, they''ve decided to include a substantial prize.

    ¡°Although our n has developed rapidly over the past year, our younger generation doesn''t match up to those from the established martial ns in Watermoon City.

    ¡°The otherrge ns have invited our Chen n to the City sh Convention to make us bleed financially.¡±

    Chen Fan understood the situation. The Chen n had gained a foothold in the city by eliminating the Lin n.

    So, every other n in the city saw them as outsiders. They were unhappy with them for swallowing most of the Lin n¡¯s businesses and assets.

    Eager to draw some benefits from the rising power that was the Chen n, these ns had organized the City sh Convention and extended an invitation.

    ¡°Since they have set up the board, our n shall y along with them. We¡¯ll see who will be the one bleeding in the end!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly.

    The younger generation of the Chen n had been inferior in the past, but the dynamics were shifting with Chen Fan''s return.

    His objectives foring back this time were to hand the treasures he had obtained in Lon Ancient Imperial City to Chen Zhengqing, as well as to perform martial infusion on some of the n members and raise their cultivation level to improve the n¡¯s overall strength.

 Chapter 240 - Overall Improvement

    <h4>Chapter 240 - Overall Improvement</h4>

    Watermoon City boasted a myriad of prestigious ns, but none matched the formidable foundations of the Zhao and Zheng ns, each presided over by a fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    Together with the other influential ns, they spearheaded the City sh Convention, a strategic move aimed at bleeding the Chen n financially and undermining its strength in Watermoon City.

    From the perspective of these prestigious ns, the Chen ncked the robust foundation of its adversaries, as it stemmed from Xuanyang City. So, they could use thepetition to get some money from them.

    If it had not been for Chen Zhengqing¡¯s immense strength, the ns would have worked together and wiped out the Chen n long ago.

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Since they want us to bleed money, let¡¯s see who ends up bleeding more!¡±

    A faint cold smile appeared on Chen Zhengqing¡¯s face as well.

    Chen Zhengqing picked out some young n members. Chen Fan spent much time and effort, along with Nine Revolution Golden Pills, Dragon Tiger Bone Strengthening Pills, and other precious elixirs, to cleanse and strengthen their physiques.

    Martial infusion followed, supported by numerous demon cores to elevate their cultivation levels.

    Three of the more than twenty individuals became Qi Grandmasters, while the rest reached the seventh or eighth level of the Qigong realm.

    Not neglecting the elders loyal to the n and supporters of Chen Zhengqing, Chen Fan generously utilized the Fountain of Life for martial infusion. This process aimed at breaking through their bottlenecks, providing a unique opportunity for advancement.

    These n elders were all very advanced in age. If they could not advance to the Yuanfu realm, they only had another decade or so to live at most.

    However, the Fountain of Life contained massive amounts of vitality origin essence. So, even if they couldn¡¯t be Yuanfu realm experts, it would at least make them Qi Grandmasters. That would also greatly increase their lifespan, providing more time to advance further.

    For three whole days, Chen Fan tirelessly performed martial infusion on the Chen n members.

    The result was the emergence of three additional Yuanfu realm experts and close to twenty Qi Grandmasters among the elders.

    Chen Fan had single-handedly bolstered the Chen n''s overall strength in just three days.

    ¡°Haha, this is great. Truly great. Our Chen n¡¯s foundation isn¡¯t any weaker than the other ns now.¡±

    In a secret room, Chen Zhengqing nced across the group of people andughed happily.

    These individuals, carefully selected by Chen Zhengqing and Chen Fan, had undergone martial infusion, bing the core pirs of the Chen n.

    Their gaze toward the seemingly indifferent Chen Fan brimmed with deep respect and admiration.

    After the group witnessed Chen Fan''s extraordinary methods that increased their cultivation, the younger generation''s admiration for him grew.

    ¡°Alright, all of you keep a low profile until the City sh Convention. We¡¯ll give a big surprise to those trying to scheme against our Chen n.¡±

    Chen Fan swept his gaze across the crowd, and his voice carried an authority that did not allow anyone to go against his wish.

    The crowd nodded one after another.

    ¡°Alright, you may leave first. For the next few days, focus on consolidating your cultivation. Although I helped raise your cultivation levels through martial infusion, it isn¡¯t strength you¡¯ve gained by cultivating yourselves. A weak foundation would cut the path of your future cultivation short,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Walking on the path of martial arts was an act of going against the heavens, demanding one to take careful, short steps.

    Through Chen Fan''s martial infusion, their cultivation levels had risen. Although he had used precious elixirs, demon cores, and corpse cores in the process¡ªleaving no aftereffects¡ªit had still made their foundations unstable.

    If their foundations were weak, they could simply forget about going far in the path of martial arts. Just like pagodas, one needed a robust foundation for strong cultivation.

    The crowd nodded and exited the secret room, leaving only Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing behind.

    ¡°Hmm, Father, I¡¯ll share some of the Fountain of Life liquid with you for the n. Get me something for it. This matter must remain confidential, or the consequences will be unimaginable. Let¡¯s keep our heads down and cultivate in silence.¡±

    Chen Fan separated a third of the liquid in the iron gourd and gave it to Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s hand trembled.

    He had thoroughly felt the effects of the Fountain of Life himself.

    Four drops alone had fully mended the cracks in his primeval vessel. The fluid''s potency surpassed any elixirs¡¯, making it exceptionally precious.

    Furthermore, a drop could help a Qi Grandmaster be a Yuanfu realm expert. The one-third he had received held fifty drops, equivalent to fifty potential Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°One more thing. If you want to use the Fountain of Life to nurture loyal descendants of our n, you must not use it directly. You need to dilute it withrge amounts of spring water. Otherwise, it will do more harm than good,¡± said Chen Fan, putting away the remainder of the Fountain of Life.

    The next day, Chen Fan left Watermoon City and silently descended into Xuanyang City.

    The Chen n was developing in both Xuanyang City and Watermoon City in tandem. Chen Tianxiong was overseeing the n in Xuanyang City.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fannded in the Chen n mansion in Xuanyang City. He did not conceal his aura at all, so he immediately drew the attention of the Chen n¡¯s guards.

    These guards had all followed the Chen n for more than a decade. Naturally, they recognized Chen Fan.

    They immediately half-knelt and greeted respectfully, ¡°Greetings to the Young Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Mmm, get up, all of you.¡±

    Chen Fan swept his gaze across these people, nodding to himself.

    The Chen n¡¯s strength was growing; it was getting better by the day. The guards all seemed much stronger than before.

    ¡°What brought you back, Xiaofan?¡±

    Chen Tianxiong was silently cultivating in his room when he sensed Chen Fan¡¯s aura. He immediately came out, pleased.

    ¡°Grandfather. Let¡¯s talk inside.¡±

    Chen Fan and Chen Tianxiong walked into the main hall together.

    ¡°What? Chen Hualong and Chen Yunchong both advanced to the Yuanfu realm? Chen Qingqing, Chen Jian, Chen Lei, and the others have be Qi Grandmasters?¡±

    In the main hall, Chen Fan gave Chen Tianxiong a quick summary of the situation in Watermoon City. His grandfather was taken aback, revealing a look of great shock.

    Chen Tianshi, Chen Tianhu, and the others¡¯ faces also trembled in astonishment.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Grandfather, there¡¯s no need for you guys to be surprised. My purpose for returning to Xuanyang City is to help raise your cultivation levels.¡±

    ¡°Good, that will be great!¡± Chen Tianxiong pped his knee andughed.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t drone on further and said, ¡°Grandfather, Grand Elder, please get ready.¡±

    Chen Tianxiong, Chen Tianshi, and the others immediately sat upright with serious expressions.

    Chen Fan tapped the iron gourd. Several dreamy-looking, colorful drops flew out. Rubbing them in his hands, the droplets of Fountain of Life turned into vast amounts of vitality origin essence. He thrust them into Chen Tianxiong and the others.

    Chen Tianxiong and the others immediately focused and calmed their minds, revolving their cultivations to refine the energy essence in the drops.

 Chapter 241 - Plotting in Secret

    <h4>Chapter 241 - Plotting in Secret</h4>

    Under the vignt guard of Chen Fan, the breakthroughs for Chen Tianxiong and the others unfolded without any hitches.

    Chen Tianxiong¡¯s cultivation was already at the first level, so the drops from the Fountain of Life helped him advance to the second level.

    Simultaneously, the three others advanced to the Yuanfu realm by forming their primeval vessels, significantly prolonging their lifespans.

    ¡°Xiaofan, this... what treasure is this? Just two drops were enough for us to make such significant progress!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong looked at Chen Fan in shock.

    The other three were in a simr state. After all, the drops were far superior to the Realm Breaking Pill, as Qi Grandmasters only had a sixty percent chance of advancing to the Yuanfu realm even with the pill.

    Yet, a single drop had been enough for their advancement to the next realm. It was too shocking.

    Chen Fan smiled, ¡°Grandfather, the drops were from the Fountain of Life. A drop of it could produce a Yuanfu realm expert.¡±

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    Chen Tianxiong and the others sucked in a breath of cold air.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Alright, Grandfather, I need you to help me pick out some outstanding n juniors. I will perform martial infusion on them. In the future, our Chen n will only grow stronger; for that, we need more experts.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡±

    Chen Tianxiong immediately walked out with Chen Tianshi and the others. About an hourter, twenty young men and women entered a secret room.

    Chen Fan wasted no time in unnecessary talk, exining briefly before taking out Nine Revolution Golden Pills, Dragon Tiger Bone Strengthening Pills, and other precious elixirs. He focused on cleansing their meridians and enhancing their physiques.

    Afterward, he repeated the process: he refined demon and corpse cores, transforming them into an enormous amount of vitality essence and injecting them into the twenty talents. He raised his voice and shouted, ¡°Concentrate and calm your minds. Don¡¯t get distracted. Revolve your cultivation technique!¡±

    Chen Fan''s sharp perception scanned everyone, ready to intervene at any sign of trouble and prevent them from exploding from the overwhelming amount of energy.

    Chen Tianxiong and the others also kept their sharp eyes on the twenty juniors.

    About half a dayter, the martial infusion process was over safely. Their cultivation levels had all improved significantly, their auras were much stronger, and they were full of vitality.

    ¡°Xiaofan, this method of yours has truly broadened my horizons. Martial infusion... I¡¯m afraid not even Core Formation realm powerhouses can perform martial infusion this well!¡± said Chen Tianxiong with a sigh.

    Five of the twenty talents were now Qi Grandmasters; the rest were at the seventh or eighth level.

    Chen Fan swallowed the demon cores in front of them, now hiding anything. He showcased his godly method of refining them. Chen Tianxiong and the others were astounded. After all, even experts in the Yuanfu realm couldn''t replicate what he had just done without falling in danger.

    Chen Fan chuckled, offering no exnation.

    Demon and corpse cores were like poison to Chen Tianxiong and the others, but they were tonics to Chen Fan. The Heaven Seizing Furnace could refine all things, not to mention mere demon cores and corpse cores.

    ¡°Old Patriarch, our Chen n can now truly be worthy of being called a prestigious n.¡±

    Chen Tianshiughed and said, ¡°Now, we need both hands to count out Yuanfu realm experts. Our Qi Grandmasters exceed twenty, and we have numerous Qigong experts at the seventh and eighth levels.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Who would have thought our Chen n would develop to this extent in just over a year?¡±

    ¡°Hoho, it''s all thanks to the Young Patriarch. He''s truly the backbone of our Chen n. With him, our n will only grow stronger andrger."

    ¡°.....¡±

    Chen Tianshi, Chen Tianhu, and the others were all oozing with happiness.

    The Chen n had evolved into a genuinely prestigious n, rivaling others in Watermoon City in terms of top experts and the strength of the younger generation.

    Chen Fan took out the Mountain River Stars Grand Array he brought back from the underground tomb and set it up in the Chen n mansion. He also taught Chen Tianxiong and the others the method to control it.

    With Chen Tianxiong''s cultivation at the early stage of the second level, he could kill even third-level Yuanfu realm experts trying to breach it.

    After arranging everything, Chen Fan didn''t hastily return to Watermoon City; instead, he entered secluded cultivation.

    ......

    Watermoon City, the City Lord Mansion, Zhao n:

    Several figures could be seen gathered in a hall.

    Outsiders would surely be shocked if they saw these people.

    These individuals each held an esteemed position in Watermoon City, being patriarchs of various prestigious martial ns.

    ¡°Brother Qinghu, Brother Tianba... The City sh Convention is in three days. Now that I¡¯ve invited you here, this matter is settled.¡±

    The Zhao n¡¯s Patriarch, Zhao Kongming, was a middle-aged man with a tall and strong figure. He had a dignified appearance and a sharp gaze and was one of the two fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouses of Watermoon City. Additionally, his overall strength was ranked number one in Watermoon City.

    ¡°Hoho, Brother Kongming sent letters to the other four great ns this time, but they didn¡¯t bother to show up. It seems they do not n on getting on the same boat as us.¡±

    To the left of Zhao Kongming was a middle-aged man with a short and stout figure. His bright, expressive eyes contradicted his shrill voice, creating an odd impression.

    This person was none other than the Zheng n¡¯s Patriarch, Zheng Qinghu. He was the other fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse aside from Zhao Kongming.

    ¡°Even if the Qian n of the four great ns does not participate, can we not deal with one Chen n with our six great ns allying?¡±

    The Li n¡¯s Patriarch, Li Tianba, might have a domineering name but had a slim figure like a bamboo. It was as if he would fall over if a wind blew.

    Despite his appearance, he was the third-strongest after Zhao Kongming and Zheng Qinghu.

    The tone in Li Tianba¡¯s voice carried a hint of contempt as he continued, ¡°The Chen n only managed to establish a foothold in Watermoon City by wiping out the Lin n. Their foundation and strength are far fromparable to ours, no different from a nouveau riche. Their younger generation doesn¡¯t stand a chance against ours."

    The patriarchs of the other ns nodded in agreement.

    Despite the Chen n''s recent rapid growth, these long-established prestigious ns, rooted in Watermoon City for centuries, did not acknowledge them. The neers had no solid foundation and were iparable to the veterans.

    Zhao Kongming raised his hand, his voice resounding in the hall.

    ¡°Aside from targeting the Chen n in the City sh Convention, I have invited everyone here for another matter.¡±

    Zhao Kongming paused for a moment. His expression turned serious. The atmosphere in the hall became solemn.

    Zhao Kongming continued, ¡°The situation in Watermoon City hasn¡¯t changed much in over a hundred years. So, I n to make a big change in Watermoon City while we¡¯re onto the matter with the Chen n.¡±

    The hall fell deadly silent. Even the sound of breathing stopped.

    Zheng Qinghu, Li Tianba, and the others narrowed their eyes, looking at Zhao Kongming.

 Chapter 242 - Myriad Elephants Divine Art Ninth Layer

    <h4>Chapter 242 - Myriad Elephants Divine Art Ninth Layer</h4>

    As Zhao Kongming¡¯s voice fell, the entire hall went silent.

    Zhao Kongming had said he would make a big change in Watermoon City¡¯s situation. How?

    Watermoon City¡¯s prominent ns had all taken root here hundreds of years ago, each ruling its territory with robust foundations and strength.

    So, changing the status quo would be no easy feat.

    Zheng Qinghu and the others looked at Zhao Kongming, waiting for his next words.

    Clearly, the allure of potential growth for their ns had captured their interest.

    Zhao Kongming momentarily pondered and said, ¡°The Watermoon City has been like a pool of stagnant water for thest hundred years, with each n guarding its territory. I presume none of you wish for this stagnation to continue."

    A sharp light shed in Zheng Qinghu''s and the others'' eyes, and they nodded one after another.

    Who did not want to grow stronger?

    Who did not want their n to grow stronger?

    Watermoon City, constrained by its size and longstanding structure, had seen only marginal changes over the centuries.

    While evenly matched in strength, the martial ns hesitated to recklessly challenge each other''s dominance.

    In these people¡¯s eyes, the reason the Lin n got wiped out by the Chen n was only an ident.

    The existing structure showed no signs of significant changes,cking vitality. Martial ns coexisted peacefully, each developing independently without the drive to ascend to a higher level.

    The prevailing sentiment suggested that, over time, the martial ns might settle into contentment with the current state of peace.

    Prior to Zhao Kongming''s words, the notion of restructuring Watermoon City had never crossed their minds.

    ¡°Brother Kongming, don¡¯t keep us waiting. No one here wants things to remain as they are forever. We are considered prestigious ns in Watermoon City, but what do we count for in a Grade-1 City or even a County City?¡± said Zheng Qinghu, making the others nod in agreement.

    ¡°Just tell us, Brother Kongming. What do you need us to do?¡±

    A cruel look appeared in Li Tianba¡¯s gaze.

    Zhao Kongming chuckled and continued, ¡°Since everyone here agrees, then fine. I¡¯ll tell you what I think.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s have our six great ns ally. Using this City sh Convention, we¡¯ll wipe out the other ns in Watermoon City, including the Chen n, catching them off guard.¡±

    The flicker of anticipation lit up the eyes of Zheng Qinghu and the others.

    ¡°Brother Kongming, although we are powerfulbined, once we make a move, the Chen n and the others will also surely join forces in retaliation. It won¡¯t be easy to wipe them outpletely,¡± Zheng Qinghu said.

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Brother Kongming, why don¡¯t we join forces to wipe out the Chen n first? After all, the Chen n¡¯s foundation is weak, and their n has few top experts. No matter how powerful Chen Zhengqing is, with you and Brother Qinghu around, there is nothing much he can do,¡± added Li Tianba.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Brother Kongming. I agree with Brother Tianba¡¯s suggestion. Let¡¯s wipe out the Chen n first.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. We should do it this way.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Zhao Kongming countered, ¡°Think about it, everyone. If we were to wipe out the Chen n first, the Qian n and the other four great ns would react by immediately forming an alliance. That would make it difficult for us to devour the four great ns as they would be prepared.

    ¡°The City sh Convention this time is the best opportunity. The Chen n, Qian n, and the other great ns¡¯ top experts would be there to watch the battles and have their guards lowered. We¡¯ll strike and catch them by surprise, making quick work of them. We would pay the smallest price to wipe out the five great ns. Wouldn¡¯t that be better?¡±

    Zheng Qinghu, Li Tianba, and the others¡¯ eyes flickered, their minds racing as they weighed the advantages and disadvantages in their hearts.

    Zhao Kongming did not speak any further. He picked up a cup of fragrant tea, waiting for the others to decide.

    About an incense¡¯s worth of timeter, Zheng Qinghu broke the silence. ¡°Alright! Brother Kongming, you have a point. Take them by surprise and make quick work of them, directly removing them from the equation.¡±

    Li Tianba was more rational about it. He asked, ¡°Brother Kongming, I wonder how confident you are about this?¡±

    The corners of Zhao Kongming¡¯s lips drew back, and a strange luster shed across his eyes. He said decisively, ¡°A hundred percent!¡±

    ¡°Alright, my Li n is in!¡±

    Li Tianba¡¯s gaze shed with a burst of light as he immediately gave his final word.

    ¡°My Sun n is in too.¡± The Sun n¡¯s Patriarch, Sun Tianqi, said.

    ¡°And my Wang n!¡± The Wang n¡¯s Patriarch, Wang Daoyuan, made his choice. [1]

    ¡°And my Wu n!¡± The Wu n¡¯s Patriarch, Wu Huasheng, said with a sharp gaze.

    Zhao Kongming immediately burst out inughter. ¡°Haha, everyone, from here on, Watermoon City shall be in our grasp for all eternity!¡±

    ......

    Meanwhile, Watermoon City''s Qian n, Zhou n, Lu n, Zhang n, and Chen Zhengqing remained oblivious to the plotted conspiracy. These great ns were actively preparing for the uing City sh Convention scheduled in three days.

    Every great n would bring out one of their businesses for this City sh Convention as a wager. The five ns that performed the worst would hand over their businesses to those in the top five.

    In Xuanyang City, Chen Fan had gone into secluded cultivation to advance to the ninthyer of Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    He had obtained plenty of precious elixirs in Lon Ancient Imperial City¡¯s underground pce. One of them was an extremely precious Crouching Dragon Pill, which had a miraculous effect on tempering one¡¯s physique. It was one of the three most precious elixirs he had obtained.

    Opening a jade box, Chen Fan revealed the round elixir, emitting pure and majestic energy. The Crouching Dragon Pill''s allure triggered a strong desire within Chen Fan. He promptly consumed the pill.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Crouching Dragon Pill instantly melted in his mouth, transforming into a mass of majestic, fiery energy that coursed through Chen Fan¡¯s limbs and skeleton.

    Chen Fan focused and calmed his mind. He immediately revolved the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to absorb the medicinal efficacy of the pill, enhancing and tempering his physique.

    As time flowed slowly, Chen Fan''s physique underwent a remarkable transformation under the potent medicinal efficacy of the Crouching Dragon Pill. An overwhelming sense of oppression radiated from him as if every cell in his body brimmed with boundless strength.

    Deep in his cells, ancient wild elephants were hissing and galloping.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    As if a floodgate had been opened, an invisible power erupted from Chen Fan. It formed a fierce gale that, carrying terrifying strength, mmed into the stone walls of the secret room, producing loud cracking noises.

    Finally, Chen Fan¡¯s Myriad Elephants Divine Art progressed to the next level, reaching the ninthyer.

    If the toughness of Chen Fan¡¯s flesh wereparable to Grade-2 treasures at the eighthyer, he was now no weaker than top-tier Grade-2 weapons.

    Relying on physical strength alone, he could kill a sixth-level Yuanfu realm expert and even defend himself from a seventh-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    Chen Fan still did not emerge from his secluded cultivation. Instead, he cultivated the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art.

    1. Sun Tianqi and Wang Daoyuan appeared in 177 when the Lin n was being destroyed and were asked to help, but they stood by and watched. ?

 Chapter 243 - Martial Arts Meet Begins

    <h4>Chapter 243 - Martial Arts Meet Begins</h4>

    Three days passed in the blink of an eye.

    Since early morning, the atmosphere in Watermoon City had been intensifying.

    The crowd eagerly approached the City Lord''s mansion, which was also the Zhao n''s residence situated slightly to the east in Watermoon City¡ªa castle-like structure standing tall and majestic, symbolizing the authority of the city lord.

    The castle''s five-meter-tall door, constructed from fine iron, appeared indestructible and spectacr.

    A broad road stretched directly into the castle, allowing people to enter and leave as they pleased on this special day¡ªthe annual Watermoon City martial arts meet.

    Not only could they see the young talents and witness their great strength, but they could also admire the head figures of the city¡¯s prestigious ns during the meet.

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing led the Chen n members as they headed toward the city lord''s mansion. On their way there, the crowd opened up a path as they whispered among themselves.

    The Chen n had wiped out the Lin n a year ago, recing them and bing the newest prestigious martial n of Watermoon City.

    Although there was a gap in their foundation and strengthpared to the other martial ns, how big could the gap possibly be since they managed to wipe out the Lin n?

    In this City sh Convention, the people could see for themselves the strengths of the younger generation of the Chen n. They could not help but look forward to it.

    ¡°As expected of a city lord. This castle looks so grand and majestic.¡±

    Following Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing, Chen Qingqing and the others revealed looks of admiration.

    The Zhao n''s castle, serving as both a castle and manor, alone showcased their dominance as the premier n in Watermoon City.

    As they walked into the city lord¡¯s mansion, their field of vision widened, revealing the vast martial arts arena capable of amodating a hundred thousand people.

    This arena, where the Zhao n usually trained their private troops, featured five battle tforms¡ªeach a thousand feet long and wide. Four tforms were positioned in the cardinal directions, while the tallest main battle tform upied the center.

    Eleven stands encircled the battle tforms, elevated higher than the tforms themselves, serving as viewing galleries for the prestigious ns of Watermoon City. A symbol of their statuses, these galleries currently amodated the Zhao n, Zheng n, and the other six allied ns. They were in the east and south stands, sitting side by side.

    The participants stood before the leaders of their respective ns. They stood neatly in ce, exuding an extraordinary aura and a sense of great strength.

    The people from the Qian n, Zhang n, and the other four non-allied ns simrly upied the west and north stands.

    ¡°Quickly look over there. The Zhao n¡¯s and the Zheng n¡¯s people are on the east stand. Zhao Kongming and Zheng Qinghu are sitting right in the middle. These two are the strongest martial artists of our city with their cultivation at the fifth level,¡± murmured onlookers, their gazes scanning the stands in all directions.

    Ordinary citizens rarely had the opportunity to see patriarchs like Zhao Kongming and Zheng Qinghu. Grand asions like the City sh Convention gave them a unique chance, so they all seemed excited.

    ¡°That is Zhao Ziyang. I heard he¡¯s a peak-stage, eighth-level Qigong realm martial artist, only a step away from bing a Qi Grandmaster. Amazing. As expected of the number one junior of our Watermoon City.¡±

    ¡°Look there. It¡¯s the Qian n¡¯s Qian Ling. She¡¯s so pretty! Our Watermoon City¡¯s number one beauty is a little cold, though. I heard she is already at the eighth level of the Qigong realm. Her talent isn¡¯t any worse than Zhao Ziyang.¡±

    ¡°I heard Zhao Ziyang is courting Qian Ling. A golden boy and a jade maiden. It¡¯s a match made in heaven.¡±

    ¡°Look there, the Chen n¡¯s people are here!¡±

    The crowd kept gossiping among themselves.

    Chen Fan and the other Chen n members walked over, immediately drawing everyone¡¯s attention.

    ¡°The person at the forefront is the Chen n¡¯s Patriarch, Chen Zhengqing. When they were eliminating the Lin n, he single-handedly faced Lin Hong and Lin Ying, forcing Lin Hong to self-detonate his primeval vessel. He¡¯s powerful, with strength at the peak of the fourth level.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard Chen Zhengqing is likely the third-strongest expert here, behind only Zhao Kongming and Zheng Qinghu.¡±

    ¡°That person next to Chen Zhengqing is so young. Who is he?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know him? He¡¯s Chen Fan, the Young Patriarch of the Chen n. Despite only being around seventeen or eighteen, he''s a genuine Yuanfu realm expert! In the battle to wipe out the Lin n, he fought Lin Yao and two other Yuanfu realm experts alone! He¡¯s a monstrous genius capable of killing those above his cultivation level!¡±

    ¡°Is that for real? He looks to be around the same age as Zhao Ziyang. To think he is a Yuanfu realm expert... How surprising! And he can even kill enemies above his cultivation level?¡±

    ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard? Don''t judge a person by appearance, just as you can''t measure the sea with a pint pot. Zhao Ziyang is undoubtedly a genius, butpared to Chen Fan, he''s far inferior.¡±

    "Will the Chen n let him participate in the City sh Convention? If he does, it won''t be much of apetition for the others!"

    ¡°That goes without saying. If Chen Fan steps on the stage, there¡¯s no need for the City sh Convention. He alone will sweep everyone else aside.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    When the nearby crowd saw Chen Fan and the other Chen n members walk over, they acted as if they had stumbled upon a new continent, their murmurs rising and falling.

    Everyone knew that the Chen n had wiped out the Lin n and that Chen Zhengqing was very powerful. However, they were more curious about Chen Fan because few had seen him before.

    Everyone was shocked when they noticed Chen Fan was a mere youth.

    ¡°Hoho, Brother Chen hase.¡±

    Zhao Kongming stood up, looking towards Chen Zhengqing. A smile appeared on his face.

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re here, Brother Chen. Everyone¡¯s waiting for you.¡± The Qian n¡¯s Patriarch, Qian Tongtian,ughed, cupping his fists.

    ¡°Indeed, heroes emerge from the young. To be a Yuanfu realm expert at such a young age, Brother Chen indeed has a great son. It¡¯s truly enviable.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The other patriarchsplimented one after another.

    Chen Zhengqing looked at Zhao Kongming and the others and cupped his fists. ¡°My apologies, everyone. Our Chen n hasete.¡±

    After they exchanged some pleasantries, Chen Zhengqing led the Chen n members to the stand at the north, sitting next to the Qian n.

    ¡°Sure enough, the Chen n is a n from a Grade-3 City, after all. Their foundation is much inferior to the other ns. Without Chen Zhengqing''s presence, the Lin n''s assets might not have fallen into their hands."

    ¡°Hehe, I heard that the other ns have joined hands secretly for this City sh Convention, nning to suppress the Chen n and make them bleed. If things go as expected, the Chen n will surely take thest ce and have to fork over two businesses.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    A yful look shed in the eyes of some individuals privy to gossip from undisclosed sources.

    All eleven prestigious ns of Watermoon City were now in the Zhao n¡¯s mansion.

    Zhao Kongming stood up and leaped into the air. He stood mid-air, nced around the crowd, and smiled. ¡°Everyone, today is our Watermoon City¡¯s annual City sh Convention, a grand asion celebrated by the entire city.

    ¡°I shall not drone on unnecessarily. Now, let¡¯s invite the various ns¡¯ participants on stage.¡±

    Zhao Kongming finished his opening speech and returned to his seat, nodding at the other patriarchs.

    Afterward, the young talents at the front of the various ns stood up and walked to the battle tform.

    On the Chen n¡¯s side, Chen Qingqing, Chen Lei, Chen Jian, and the others did the same. They strode toward the battle tform with their chests out and heads held high.

    If it were half a month ago, they wouldn¡¯t have acted as confidently as they did now. They would have even felt apprehensive inside.

    But now, every one of them was filled with endless confidence.

 Chapter 244 - Sitting Tight on the Fishing Terrace Despite the Storm

    <h4>Chapter 244 - Sitting Tight on the Fishing Terrace Despite the Storm</h4>

    The City sh Convention involved eleven great martial ns, each sending out eight juniors to participate.

    In the Zhao n¡¯s direction, an old man by Zhao Kongming¡¯s side stood up. His gaze fell on the eighty-eight participants.

    This old man was the Zhao n¡¯s chief steward, Zhao De.

    ¡°The purpose of the martial artspetition is to check on the strengths of our Watermoon City¡¯s outstanding descendants. So, don¡¯t hold back your strengths.

    ¡°Those unable to ovee their opponents can admit defeat, concluding their match then and there. If you are unwilling to surrender, the match shall continue until one side falls, regardless of life and death.¡±

    His words created ripples in the hearts of the onlookers.

    <i>If one refuses to surrender, then their life and death are out of consideration! How ruthless!</i>

    Some proud martial artists were extremely conscious of their image and were especially averse to admitting defeat. As such, very few people would choose to admit defeat.

    Even if they were no match, they would continue to fight to defend their honor, finding pride in defeat.

    However, Zhao De¡¯s words left those people reconsidering things. After all, didn¡¯t that mean no one would stop their opponent from killing them?

    If both sides were of equal strength and unwilling to admit defeat, it would not stop until death, forming a deep feud.

    This revtion also garnered silent admiration from many observers.

    <i>Brilliant.</i>

    Zhao De was obviously representing Zhao Kongming¡¯s will. Doing things this way would only benefit the Zhao n.

    After all, thepetition was in the city lord''s mansion. Who would dare to kill someone from their Zhao n right in the city lord''s mansion?

    The situation differed for the other ns. In this setting, fatal shes would likely ignite, fostering animosity between the participating ns.

    Zhao Kongming was trying to spark conflict between the other great ns through the martial arts meet. Although the other patriarchs were aware of his intentions, they could only go along with it.

    After all, which patriarch didn''t desire their n to ascend above the rest, earning admiration from others?

    Moreover, the City sh Convention boasted a substantial prize.

    For the n at the bottom of the rankings, conceding one or even two businesses to the top-ranked ns would be a crippling blow to their strength.

    Thus, they would naturally instruct their ns¡¯ participants to go all out and fight for victory.

    Moreover, Zhao De had said that one could admit defeat if they were no match for their opponent, and the fight would end right there.

    The rules were somewhat fair, so it was not appropriate for them to argue. After all, who would willingly concede that their n''s descendants were inferior?

    Zhao Kongming, Zheng Qinghu, Li Yuanba, and the other patriarchs of the six allied ns exchanged secret nces; a cold smile danced in the depths of their gazes.

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing sat in the middle of the Chen n.

    ¡°Hoho, Xiaofan, it seems these ns are not only nning on making our Chen n bleed financially, they are even nning to ruin our Chen n¡¯s outstanding seedlings,¡± Chen Zhengqing said with a cold smile.

    He had long been aware that the great ns, spearheaded by the Zhao n, had covertly allied with intentions to confront his Chen n.

    Chen Fan also smiled coldly and said, ¡°Father, it seems the Zhao n''s machinations go beyond mere schemes. I suspect this City sh Convention is akin to a Hongmen Banquet orchestrated to target our entire Chen n.¡± [1]

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell on Zhao Kongming. His eyes shed with a hint of iciness.

    Given his current strength, his perception was incredibly sharp. As soon as he entered the city lord¡¯s mansion, he sensed the auras of no less than thirty Yuanfu realm experts deep inside the mansion.

    Despite these experts attempting to mask their auras from Chen Zhengqing, Chen Fan''s sharp senses exposed them.

    As the city lord n of Watermoon City, the Zhao n, while formidable, couldn''t possibly boast over thirty Yuanfu realm experts. The revtion of such a significant number of hidden experts within the Zhao n''s mansion intrigued Chen Fan.

    Chen Zhengqing, noting his son''s reaction, inquired through primeval force voice transmission, "Oh? Xiaofan, do you know something?"

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°Father, no fewer than thirty Yuanfu realm experts are hiding deep within the Zhao n¡¯s mansion. I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ve joined forces with some other ns. I don¡¯t know what they are trying to do, but it can¡¯t be anything good.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice transmission made Chen Zhengqing¡¯s pupils contract violently.

    <i>More than thirty Yuanfu realm experts are hiding deep inside the city lord¡¯s mansion?! What is the Zhao n trying to do?</i>

    Chen Fan added, ¡°No need to panic, Father. Let¡¯s just wait and watch.¡±

    Uncertain whether all ten great ns had allied or only a select few had aligned with the Zhao n, Chen Fan opted not to sound the rm.

    Although thirty-something Yuanfu realm experts made up a mighty force, it was as fragile as a piece of paper in Chen Fan''s eyes. He was not afraid in the slightest.

    Chen Zhengqing discreetly nced at Zhao Kongming and nodded slightly. He had decided to trust Chen Fan¡¯s assessment.

    Even if Zhao Kongming had some huge scheme going on, all plots and tricks were powerless in the face of absolute strength.

    ¡°I have obtained a list of all participants for the martial arts meet. I shall decide the arrangement of the battles. I wonder if the various ns have any objections?¡±

    Zhao De¡¯s gaze fell on Chen Zhengqing, Qian Tongtian, and the other patriarchs.

    Qian Tongtian had an obese figure. His cheeks were so plump that his eyes squeezed tightly against his eyelids. He spoke out with a loud and nonchnt voice. ¡°Hoho, since it¡¯s the city lord mansion¡¯s arrangements, naturally, I will agree to it.

    ¡°The past martial arts meets were all hosted by the city lord''s mansion. This time will naturally be no different,¡± Li Yuanba said.

    ¡°I have no opinion, either,¡± Chen Zhengqing also said.

    ¡°Then, this old man shall give my thanks to all you patriarchs on behalf of the city lord mansion.¡± Zhao De smiled faintly at Chen Zhengqing, Qian Tongtian, and the other patriarchs. He announced, ¡°The battles of the City sh Convention will be elimination matches from the very first battle. The loser retires, and the winner advances.

    ¡°Now, I shall begin announcing the match-ups. Those called are to step onto the battle tforms. The rest, please await your turn below," Zhao De dered, making the eighty-eight participants narrow their eyes.

    ¡°On the main battle tform, Zhao n¡¯s Zhao Qian versus Chen n¡¯s Chen Chuge. The east battle tform is Zheng n¡¯s Zheng Ming versus Qian n''s Qian Xingjian. South battle tform, Li n¡¯s Li Wu versus L¨· n¡¯s L¨· Gao. West battle tform, Sun n¡¯s Sun Yuanlong versus Zhang n¡¯s Zhang Feng. North battle tform, Wang n¡¯s Wang Hong versus Zhou n¡¯s Zhou Nan.¡±

    Ten people could fight at a time on the five battle tforms. With eighty-eight participants, it would take nine battles to cycle through everyone, eliminating half of them and leaving only forty-four behind.

    The ten whose names were called walked up to their designated battle tforms one after another.

    ¡°Hoho, the Chen n¡¯s Chen Chuge is really unlucky to be matched against the Zhao n¡¯s Zhao Qian. Although Zhao Qian cannot bepared to Zhao Ziyang, he is also a renowned genius of the Zhao n. I heard he is already in the seventh level. He surely is a future Yuanfu realm seedling.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n¡¯s foundations are too shallow, after all. Even though they have obtained the Lin n¡¯s several hundred years'' worth of treasure, how much could their n¡¯s descendants possibly improve in only one year? The Chen n¡¯s younger generation is far too inferior whenpared to the other ns.¡±

    ¡°It should be Zheng Ming¡¯s victory on the east tform and Li Wu on the south tform. I heard the south tform¡¯s Zhang Feng has already broken through to the seventh level. He should be able to im victory. As for the north tform, Wang Hong and Zhou Nan are simr in strength, so I¡¯m afraid it won¡¯t be easy to decide a winner.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd had some understanding of the Watermoon City¡¯s talented juniors and were clear about the differences in their strengths. So, they had already determined the winners and losers before the matches had even started.

    1. The Feast at Swan Goose Gate, also known as the Hongmen Banquet, and other simr renditions, was a historical event that took ce in 206 BC at Swan Goose Gate outside Xianyang. It was one of the highlights of the power struggle between Liu Bang and Xiang Yu leading to the outbreak of the Chu¨CHan Contention, a violent civil war for supremacy over China. In Chinese culture, the term is used figuratively to refer to a trap or a situation ostensibly joyous but in fact treacherous. ?

 Chapter 245 - First Kill

    <h4>Chapter 245 - First Kill</h4>

    The curtains to the meet¡¯s first battle were drawn as the ten participants entered their respective arenas.

    Chen Chuge and Zhao Qian faced each other on the main battle tform.

    Zhao Qian was a handsome youth with a tall stature. His eyes were long and narrow, slightly narrowed at this moment, flicking with a dangerous light. He seemed like a poisonous snake hiding in a dark ce. His whole person emanated a faint, indiscernible, icy aura.

    While not the top genius of the Zhao n, he ranked within the top ten and carried himself with pride due to his lineage. His gaze toward Chen Chuge exuded contempt.

    ¡°Kid, I¡¯ll give you a choice. Kneel, kowtow, and beg for leniency. I¡¯ll spare your worthless life. Otherwise, don¡¯t me me for not showing any mercy!

    ¡°Chen n, right? A n from a Grade-3 city. Just because you eliminated the Lin n, do you think you are the same as my Zhao n? In my eyes, your Chen n people are nothing more than country bumpkins.¡±

    Zhao Qian''s arrogance fueled anger among the Chen n members present behind Chen Zhengqing and Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hoho, Brother Chen, Zhao Qian is full of youthful vigor and spoke out of turn. I hope you won''t let his words bother you," remarked Zhao Kongming, his voice echoing. He respectfully cupped his fists toward Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Zhengqing smiled lightly and said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Talking nonsense won¡¯t be of any use.¡±

    ¡°Hoho.¡± Zhao Kongming chuckled coldly, unfazed by thement.

    <i>Talking nonsense?</i>

    <i>You will soon find out whether it¡¯s nonsense or not!</i>

    ¡°Chen Chuge, no need to hold back. Our Chen n will take care of it if you kill or maim him.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice rang out, immediately drawing the crowd''s gaze.

    Chen Chuge turned his head and looked at Chen Fan. He nodded heavily and said, ¡°Yes!¡±

    His sharp gaze went back to Zhao Qian, and he revealed two rows of white teeth. ¡°Zhao Qian, huh? Did you think being from the city lord¡¯s mansion makes you superior? Insulting the Chen n won''t end well for you!¡±

    ¡°No way, this guy is out of his mind. He actually dares to say something so rebellious!¡±

    ¡°Perhaps he didn¡¯t want to lose face in front of the crowd.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, how foolish. Isn¡¯t he courting death? Look at Zhao Qian¡¯s face, you guys. That kid is dead for sure!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd shook their heads, thinking Chen Chuge would meet a grim fate.

    For a moment of bravado, he had to pay the price with his life. Just why did he do it?

    Zhao Qian¡¯s expression was frosty, and icy killing intent blossomed in his eyes. The killing intent seemed to have frozen the battle tform.

    ¡°Little bastard, I just wanted to defeat you at first. But now, you dared to insult me with such shameless boasting. Very well, today, not even the deities can save you!¡±

    Zhao Qian took a step forward. His aura rushed out violently, generating a gale and an extreme sense of oppression.

    ¡°Peak of the seventh level!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, he¡¯s only a step away from reaching the eighth level of the Qigong realm. That kid from the Chen n is in deep trouble.¡±

    ¡°Someone will die in the very first battle. The Chen n will have to treat it as a lesson.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd sensed Zhao Qian¡¯s cold aura, and their pupils shrunk violently.

    Zhao Qian being at the seventh level wasmon knowledge, but they hadn¡¯t expected him to be at the peak of that level.

    A sinister smile appeared on Zhao Qian¡¯s face. He closed in on Chen Chuge step by step and said, ¡°Little bastard, have your legs gone limp? Are you scared out of your wits? Don¡¯t you want to kneel and beg for mercy? Too bad, it¡¯s useless! You can no longer beg for mercy!

    ¡°In this City sh Convention, I shall use your fresh blood to tell the people that in Watermoon City, our Zhao n¡¯s people are not to be insulted!

    ¡°Whoever insults us shall die!¡±

    Zhao Qian suddenly shot out like a bullet, instantly appearing before Chen Chuge.

    Primeval qi spewed from his five fingers, producing a wind-breaking sound. His fingers were like five unbreakable silver spears tearing through the air and wing toward Chen Chuge¡¯s face, striking viciously.

    ¡°Five Fingers Silver Spear. Zhao Qian used his strongest move right from the start. Isn¡¯t he thinking too highly of that kid from Chen n?¡±

    ¡°Hoho, Five Fingers Silver Spear is a quasi-profound tier martial skill. Before that attack, Chen Chuge¡¯s protective primeval qi will be no different from tofu. His head will be ripped out in one go.¡±

    In the Zhao n¡¯s direction, cold smiles appeared on some of their descendants'' faces.

    ¡°Go die!¡± Zhao Qian shouted as his palm smashed down, piercing the air with unmatched toughness, wanting to kill Chen Chuge in one move.

    However, as the crowd covered their faces, unwilling to watch the bloody scene, Chen Chuge stepped forth. An invisible shockwave swept from him, hitting Zhao Qian like an invisible hammer. Zhao Qian staggered from the hit and let out a low groan.

    ¡°You dare talk big before me when you¡¯re merely at the peak of the seventh level. Even if you¡¯re a descendant of the city lord¡¯s mansion, you will have to die!¡±

    Chen Chuge clenched his right fist and punched at Zhao Qian¡¯s head.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud boom rang out in the area.

    Chen Chuge¡¯s punch moved like a meteorite, carrying a destructive aura.

    Zhao Qian felt like the grim reaper¡ªwielding an impossiblerge scythe¡ªwas walking toward him to reap his life.

    Subconsciously, he brought his hands up in front of him.

    <i>Snap!</i>

    The punch quickly dealt with Zhao Qian¡¯s palm before sending Zhao Qian flying. As he flew back, he spewed fresh blood nonstop.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    Chen Chuge kicked off the ground, shooting forth like an arrow, and threw another punch at the flying Zhao Qian.

    ¡°I, I admit...¡±

    Chen Chuge¡¯s fist grewrger in Zhao Qian¡¯s field of vision. He quickly realized Chen Chuge was at the eighth level of the Qigong realm and was horrified.

    So, when Chen Chuge threw another punch at him without holding back, intent on killing him, Zhao Qian decided to just admit defeat.

    However, before he could utter ¡°defeat,¡± Chen Chuge¡¯s fist had already arrived.

    Zhao De immediately roared at the sight. He unleashed his third-level Yuanfu realm aura to stop Chen Chuge.

    ¡°You sinful bastard, hold it!¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    However, an icy cold snort rang out, and an invisible force struck Zhao De. His aura was immediately suppressed, and he coughed up blood.

    At the same time, Chen Chuge¡¯s fist fell on Zhao Qian¡¯s head, making it burst like a watermelon.

    Zhao Qian, a talented descendant of the Zhao n at the peak of the seventh level, died.

 Chapter 246 - Give an Explanation

    <h4>Chapter 246 - Give an Exnation</h4>

    Silence!

    A hush fell over the entire martial arts arena.

    Everyone¡¯s gaze was on the main battle tform, their eyes wide and mouths agape.

    Just like that, Zhao Qian was... killed with a punch!

    Many people¡¯s eyes shed with horror.

    Didn¡¯t the Chen n have a weak foundation, incapable of standing up against the prestigious ns of Watermoon City? How could Zhao Qian, the talented Zhao n descendant, be defeated in just two punches in the first battle?

    A sense of disbelief crept into the thoughts of many, and some even rubbed their eyes, questioning if what they saw was an illusion.

    Suddenly, a bright voice broke the silence in the martial arts arena.

    ¡°Good! Very good!¡± cheered Chen Fan, standing up from his seat with a sharp gaze.

    ¡°Chen Chuge, you did very well! The only fitting oue for those who dare to insult our n is death!"

    While others hesitated to kill the Zhao n members, the Chen n had no such reservations.

    Earlier, Zhao Qian had spouted arrogant words and insulted his Chen n, calling them country bumpkins. If it were not for the City sh Convention¡¯s rules, Chen Fan would have turned Zhao Qian into a paste with a p.

    The crowd finally came back to their senses from their shock.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan¡¯s arrogant and haughty words naturally drew the fierce gazes of the Zhao n members. Even Yuanfu realm experts were staring at him icily, and their gazes were like des, filled with killing intent.

    Zhao De threw a cold stare at Chen Zhengqing.

    Earlier, when he tried to intervene and stop Chen Chuge from delivering the fatal blow, Chen Zhengqing had used his aura to thwart him, injuring him in the process.

    ¡°Patriarch Chen, you need to give our Zhao n an exnation for this!¡± Zhao De said coldly.

    Chen Zhengqingughed coldly in response. ¡°What exnation?¡±

    ¡°Zhao Qian clearly admitted defeat. The match was over at that point. So when Chen Chuge wanted to deal the final blow, I stepped in, but you stopped me. Why?" Zhao De questioned coldly.

    On the Zhao n¡¯s side, some from the younger generation mored.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, you need to give our Zhao n an exnation!¡±

    ¡°Hmph, we must get this brat from Chen n to pay with his life!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing smiled coldly and said, ¡°He had already admitted defeat? Who heard Zhao Qian say the word ¡®defeat?¡¯¡±

    Although he had disyed signs of surrender and even uttered ¡°I admit,¡± he failed to say the crucial word ¡°defeat.¡±

    Zhao De¡¯s expression turned somewhat ugly, and he could not help but curse Zhao Qian for his stupidity inside.

    He clearly could have surrendered with only two words, but Zhao Qian had to call out three. He had failed to utter the final word. Who could say Zhao Qian had admitted defeat?

    ¡°No one heard Zhao Qian say ¡®defeat.¡¯ Is it because he¡¯s your Zhao n¡¯s descendant that others have to stay their hand and wait for him to recover before continuing the match?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s words caused Zhao De¡¯s expression to change once more.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Chen Zhengqing simultaneously mmed his palm on the armrest. A powerful aura erupted from him, sweeping across the sun and moon. He said with an icy voice, ¡°The rules were established by the Zhao n, not my Chen n. Our junior did not vite any rules. However, as thepetition referee, you attempted to intervene. Don¡¯t you think an exnation is owed to my Chen n?¡±

    Zhao De¡¯splexion immediately turned pale. The tables had turned, and now the Zhao ncked a justifiable stance. After all, he had broken the rules before so many people.

    ¡°Hoho, that¡¯s right, Zhao De. Give him an exnation! Just because your n is connected to the Watermoon City''s city lord doesn''t grant you the privilege to disregard the rules,¡± Qian Tongtian said with a smile.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. What significance does this City sh Convention hold if you arbitrarily interfered due to your Zhao n''s junior being at a disadvantage? Why doesn¡¯t your Zhao n just y with itself then?¡± said Zhang n¡¯s Zhang Huaiyuan.

    Even the spectating crowd were murmuring among themselves.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered. He noted that those demanding an exnation from Zhao De included the Qian n, Zhang n, Zhou n, and L¨· n, while the Zheng n, Li n, Sun n, and others remained silent, seemingly detached from the situation.

    <i>Have the Qian, Zhang, Zhou, and L¨· ns not joined forces with the Zhao n? </i>Chen thought.

    At this juncture, asking Zhao De for an exnation was synonymous with demanding ountability from the entire Zhao n.

    If the Qian n, Zhang n, and the others had joined hands with the Zhao n, they probably also would not have said a word.

    However, Chen Fan couldn''t be entirely certain of such an alliance.

    Suddenly, a curse rang out.

    ¡°Outrageous!¡±

    Zhao Kongming threw a powerful palm strike at Zhao De, making him cough up blood. ¡°Scram to the n¡¯s ancestral hall and reflect upon yourself behind closed doors.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Zhao De hurriedly nodded, flying towards the mansion''s depths. Yet, as he passed, his icy gaze swept over the seated Chen n members.

    Zhao Kongming cupped his fists toward Chen Zhengqing and said, ¡°Brother Chen, are you satisfied with this?¡±

    ¡°Hoho, of course, I am.¡± Chen Zhengqing smiled, retracted his aura, and sat down.

    A subtle gleam flickered in Zhao Kongming''s eyes as he proposed, ¡°To ensure fairness in thepetition, is anyone present not from the eleven great ns willing to act as a referee?¡±

    The crowd was intrigued, but no one volunteered.

    Although many people hade to watch thepetition, with numerous being rogue Yuanfu realm cultivators, acting as a referee was a job that could offend others.

    After all, it was not easy to be fair and impartial.

    Moreover, if any of the prestigious n¡¯s juniors admitted defeat, but the referee was slow to stop the match and failed to save them, this would be their responsibility.

    A faintughter rang out. An elder with white hair and a white beard stepped forward. ¡°Hoho, since no one is willing to volunteer, this old man will do it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Wanderer Dead Tree. He¡¯s a powerhouse at the third level of the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    The crowd immediately recognized this elder. He was a famous rogue cultivator of Watermoon City with great strength, Wanderer Dead Tree.

    Zhao Kongming chuckled and said, ¡°Hoho, you have my gratitude, Wanderer Dead Tree.¡±

    They moved on from the farce and continued the martial arts meet.

    ¡°Hear my orders, Zhao n descendants. No need to hold back if you encounter those from the Chen n. Kill without mercy!¡± dered Zhao Ziyang in an ice-cold tone, his words dripping with deadly intent.

    Chen Chuge killing Zhao Qian was no different from pping the Zhao n in the face. As the Zhao n¡¯s Young Patriarch, Zhao Ziyang had no intention of letting the matter slide.

    ¡°Yes, kill without mercy!¡±

    The eyes of the remaining six Zhao n participants gleamed with chilling determination as they focused on the Chen n''s participants. The coldness in their gazes made them seem like corpses, devoid of all emotions.

    ¡°Brat, you better pray not to run into me. You dare kill my Zhao n¡¯s people. I¡¯ll make you die a miserable death!¡±

    Zhao Ziyang¡¯s cold gaze fell onto Chen Chuge. Then, it swept across Chen Qingqing and the others. ¡°And the same goes for you people!¡±

    He would definitely kill those from the Chen n!

    ¡°Hear my orders, Chen n members. Kill every Zhao n member you encounter!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s ice-cold words resounded, covering the heaven and earth in ayer of frost.

    ¡°Hoo...¡±

    The crowd shrunk their necks when they heard what Zhao Ziyang and Chen Fan had said.

    The Zhao n wanted to kill the Chen n¡¯s people, while Chen Fan had told the Chen n to kill every Zhao n member they encountered. This was undoubtedly a challenge to the entire Zhao n. They truly had no idea why Chen Fan was so confident.

    In their eyes, Chen Chuge was likely the strongest junior among the Chen n, and that was why he could kill Zhao Qian. However, it seemed imusible for the others to possess simr cultivation and strength.

 Chapter 247 - The Domineering Chen Clan

    <h4>Chapter 247 - The Domineering Chen n</h4>

    A tense atmosphere hung between the members of the Chen and Zhao ns.

    The onlookers disapproved, shaking their heads, as they considered the Chen n''s actions unwise.

    If Chen Chuge had shown mercy at the end, the Chen n would have made a name for themselves with this battle.

    However, Chen Chuge had mercilessly killed Zhao Qian, offending the entire Zhao n. Now, the two ns were at odds with one another.

    The Zhao n was the city lord¡¯s n and the city¡¯s strongest n. Its foundation and strength far surpassed that of the Chen n.

    The Chen n would face severe consequences for that fleeting sense of triumph in the uing fights.

    Chen Fan, however, couldn¡¯t care less about what these people thought.

    He wasughing coldly inside. <i>Thinking of killing my n¡¯s juniors? We¡¯ll see who¡¯s killing who!</i>

    ......

    The crowd''s predictions were urate; Qian Xingjian from the Qian n forfeited the match against Zheng Ming before it even began. The vast gap in their strengths was evident, with Zheng Ming boasting eighth-level Qigong cultivationpared to Qian Xingjian''s seventh-level Qigong.

    While maintaining one''s reputation was crucial, admitting defeat in the face of a substantial difference in strength was not a source of shame.

    The oues of the south and west battle tforms unfolded as anticipated by the onlookers. Li Wu and Zhang Feng emerged victorious against their opponents, showcasing remarkable strengths.

    In the north battle tform, the crowd''s predictions held true. Wang Hong and Zhou Nan demonstrated equal prowess, engaging in a fierce and spectacr battle. Eventually, Wang Hong secured the victory.

    With the conclusion of the first round, Wanderer Dead Tree swiftly announced the participants for the next round.

    ¡°North battle tform, Chen n¡¯s Chen Jian versus Zheng n¡¯s Zheng Qingshan.¡±

    Since the match involved Chen n, the match between Chen Jian and Zheng Qingshan immediately drew most of the eyeballs of the crowd.

    They wanted to see if Chen Jian could create another miracle.

    ¡°The fight should go as expected. This big guy, Zheng Qingshan, is at the peak of the seventh level, and he was born with godly strength and a tough physique. He doesn¡¯t even have to fear an eighth-level Qigong martial artist.¡±

    ¡°Fear? I heard he defeated an elder of his n who is at the eighth level of the Qigong realm. His strength is top ss among the Zheng n¡¯s younger generation.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, this Chen Jian looks fragile. I think Zheng Qingshan can send him flying with a p.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The atmosphere carried a sense of amusement as people watched Chen Jian and Zheng Qingshan on the north battle tform.

    Zheng Qingshan''s imposing figure, resembling an iron tower, exuded an overwhelming sense of strength. His muscles were close to bursting. One look and people could tell he was the type of person with boundless strength.

    Meanwhile, standing opposite him, Chen Jian was tall and skinny. He looked like a bamboo pole whenpared to Zheng Qingshan.

    Zheng Qingshan stared at Chen Jian, his eyes like a bull¡¯s. He shouted, ¡°Kid, get the hell down on your own. I can¡¯t be bothered making a move against you.¡±

    Chen Jian stood stoically, hands behind his back, a sword strapped to it. A mighty sword intent radiated from him, presenting the image of an exceptional swordsman. His garments billowed in the wind as he gazed impassively at Zheng Qingshan.

    ¡°You deaf?! I told you to get the hell down. If I were to make a move, you likely wouldn¡¯t even be able to escape. You will die,¡± Zheng Qingshan said with a frown, noticing Chen Jian''sck of reaction.

    Their Zheng n and the Zhao n were close and even connected by marriage. So, they were also a part of the scheme against the Chen n. So, he couldn¡¯t be too polite to Chen Jian.

    Chen Jian still did not move. Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice rang out from the viewing gallery. ¡°Kill!¡±

    Finally, Chen Jian moved.

    With a shing, he drew his sword, and his agile figure appeared in front of Zheng Qingshan with a gust of wind.

    Resplendent sword light covered everything, falling from the skies.

    The crowd felt like they were dreaming when the corpse hit the ground.

    It took just one sh, executed with incredible speed, to kill the once-powerful Zheng Qingshan; he couldn¡¯t even concede defeat.

    ¡°That sh, so fast! So strong!¡±

    The crowd swallowed their saliva.

    They couldn''t even discern the details of the sword technique; it was all about the sheer speed that annihted everything.

    Zheng Qinghu stood up from the viewing gallery, his hair fluttering with rage. He looked at Zheng Qingshan¡¯s corpse on the ground, and an iparably cold aura emanated from him.

    Zheng Qingshan had died.

    The second most promising junior of the Zheng n met his demise without even managing to parry a single strike. This oue left Zheng Qinghu deeply dissatisfied.

    ¡°You dare kill him!¡±

    Zheng Qinghu¡¯s voice rolled across the sky like a thunderp, echoing heavily in the hearts of the onlookers.

    ¡°That¡¯s funny. Does Patriarch Zheng expect our Chen n members to just stand there and let themselves be ughtered?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly.

    ¡°Audacious! There¡¯s no ce for you to speak when I¡¯m talking!" retorted Zheng Qinghu, his icy gaze filled with killing intent directed at Chen Fan, causing a disturbance in the surrounding space.

    Looking up at the enraged Zheng Qinghu, Chen Fan''s pitch-ck eyes revealed a hint of cold amusement. ¡°What a powerful aura. Unfortunately, it may subdue your Zheng n members, but against me, it falls short!"

    Countless people immediately sucked in a breath of cold air.

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    They looked at Chen Fan, and their pupils shrunk violently.

    This guy was a little too arrogant.

    Earlier, he picked on the Zhao n and ordered the Chen n¡¯s juniors to kill every Zhao n member they encountered.

    Now, he directly opposed Zheng Qinghu. He showed not one sign of weakness. The source of his confidence perplexed many.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Zheng Qinghu. Stop putting on the airs before my Chen n¡¯s people,¡± Chen Zhengqing said coldly.

    Zheng Qinghu narrowed his eyes, and his killing intent intensified. He shifted his sharp gaze onto Chen Zhengqing.

    Zhao Kongming raised his voice and said, ¡°Calm down, Brother Qinghu.¡±

    Zheng Qinghu took a deep breath, suppressing the killing intent in his eyes. He said with a chilling voice, ¡°Very well. My Zheng n will never forget this!¡±

    Chen Fan sneered disdainfully at his words.

    ¡°Hoho.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice rang out, attacking the crowd''s minds like a lightning strike on a fair day.

    ¡°Hear me, Chen n. In the battles ahead, if any n¡¯s people show any killing intent or malice towards our Chen n, kill them without mercy!¡±

    The pupils of the other participants shrank.

    Chen Fan had actually said such arrogant words. Did the Chen n¡¯s juniors have the strength, or was he bluffing?

    Everyone was confused.

    Chen Chuge had killed Zhao Qian with two punches, revealing his cultivation to be at the eighth level.

    Chen Jian had killed the stronger Zheng Qingshan with one sh; he was also at the eighth level of the Qigong realm.

    Were they the strongest among the Chen n¡¯s younger generation?

    Or was the Chen n pretending to be weak, and their juniors were not any weaker than the Zhao n or the Zheng n, perhaps even stronger?

 Chapter 248 - Zhao Ziyang Burning with Anger

    <h4>Chapter 248 - Zhao Ziyang Burning with Anger</h4>

    As the Chen n hailed from a Grade-3 city, there was an underlying belief among the spectators that their foundation and strength were notably inferior to the other prestigious ns from Watermoon City.

    The perceived gap in power extended beyond the top experts of the ns to include their younger generation members.

    From the crowd¡¯s point of view, the Chen n was sure to rank at the bottom in this City sh Convention.

    However, the strength disyed by their juniors had greatly exceeded the crowd¡¯s expectations for two consecutive rounds.

    Chen Chuge and Chen Jian were both at the eighth level. They could be in the top three among juniors if they were part of the Zhao n or the Zheng n, the city¡¯s leading ns.

    Were the Chen n¡¯s foundations really weak when their juniors had such immense strength?

    The crowd soon found a reason tofort themselves.

    ¡°Maybe they knew the other ns would target them, so they spent a fortune to raise these juniors¡¯ strengths...¡±

    The Chen n had taken the Lin n¡¯s centuries'' worth of treasures. So, the idea of nurturing outstanding juniors quickly through substantial investment didn''t seem imusible.

    Perhaps the Chen n had invested heavily in Chen Chuge and Chen Jian.

    However, no one could guarantee that was the truth.

    As Chen Fan''s voice resonated, it became apparent to everyone that underestimating the Chen n might not be a wise choice.

    If anyone dared to call the Chen n¡¯s descendants pushovers or country bumpkins to humiliate them, the Chen n¡¯s juniors would not show them any mercy. Zhao Qian and Zheng Qingshan served as valuable lessons for everyone.

    As time swiftly passed, numerous battles unfolded, leading to the elimination of many participants.

    The juniors from other ns, initially eager to target the Chen n, hesitated to casually insult them now.

    To their surprise, the crowd discovered that the Chen n¡¯s descendants were simply too strong as the battles continued. All the fighters until now had been at the eighth level, and none suffered a loss.

    ¡°How is this possible? How are the Chen n¡¯s participants all that strong?¡±

    ¡°Heavens! Chen Chuge, Chen Jian, Chen Kai, Chen Luoyang, and Chen Yaoyao are all in the eighth level. Heavens, am I seeing things?¡± [1]

    ¡°So that¡¯s why Chen Fan acted so boldly. It turns out that the Chen n¡¯s juniors are all so strong.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s shocked gazes fell on the Chen n¡¯s members. Their mouths were so wide a duck egg could fit in them.

    After several matches, it became evident that every representative of the Chen n possessed eighth-level Qigong cultivation, leaving the crowd dumbfounded.

    Even the Zhao n, the top martial n in Watermoon City, had only three or four participants at the eighth level of the Qigong realm among their representatives.

    In contrast, all five Chen n members who had already fought were at the eighth level, surpassing even the Zhao n in this aspect.

    Apart from the ordinary spectators, even those from the other great martial ns looked shocked; their eyes were slightly narrowed.

    The Chen n¡¯s foundation and strength seemed far beyond expectations.

    The Zhao n¡¯s and the Zheng n¡¯s people had horrid expressions on their faces.

    Their two ns had already fallen out with the Chen n; if they were to be matched together, the fight would only end with one of them dying.

    However, the Chen n¡¯s juniors were strong, so killing them proved to be an arduous task for the descendants of their ns.

    ¡°Main battle tform, Zhao n¡¯s Zhao Ziyang versus Chen n¡¯s Chen Jun.¡±

    When Wanderer Dead Wood called out Zhao Ziyang¡¯s name, he immediately stepped forth and loosened his neck. He looked in the Chen n¡¯s direction with a ferocious expression and said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s finally my turn. Brat, are you ready to meet your end?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s finally Zhao Ziyang¡¯s turn to go up. He¡¯s the strongest cultivator among Watermoon City¡¯s younger generation with a peak-stage, eighth-level cultivation. The Chen n will suffer defeat this time... right?¡±

    ¡°It''s not just about suffering a loss! Zhao Ziyang has endured it for a long time. Now that it''s his turn to fight, especially someone from the Chen... He will kill Chen Jun and avenge Zhao Qian.¡±

    ¡°Although the strength of the Chen n¡¯s juniors had exceeded everyone¡¯s expectations, Zhao Ziyang is surely the strongest of them all. The Chen n¡¯s people are no match for him.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd discussed among themselves.

    As the crowd waited to see Zhao Ziyang disy his godly might, Chen Fan spat out two words.

    ¡°Admit defeat!¡±

    Despite Zhao Ziyang not revealing his aura, Chen Fan, with his discerning eye, confirmed his true cultivation level.

    Zhao Ziyang was indeed a Qi Grandmaster powerhouse, a level far beyond Chen Jun''s eighth-level Qigong cultivation.

    Chen Jun was very straightforward. Following Chen Fan''s directive, he admitted defeat without even stepping onto the battle tform.

    ¡°I admit defeat!¡±

    Chen Fan was a god-like existence in the hearts of everyone in the Chen n.

    If Chen Fan ordered him to admit defeat, Chen Jun would naturally go along with it.

    ¡°What? Chen Jun admitted defeat directly! Talk about being straightforward.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? He didn¡¯t even go up on the battle tform before surrendering. This...¡±

    ¡°Hoho, looks like Chen Fan knows Chen Jun is not Zhao Ziyang¡¯s match. So, he wisely prevented Chen Jun from facing certain death.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    After freezing briefly, the crowd immediately erupted into heated discussions.

    Meanwhile, Zhao Ziyang¡¯s footsteps came to an abrupt stop.

    He slowly turned around and looked at Chen Jun, then toward Chen Fan.

    Zhao Ziyang roared out loud, hisplexion flushed red with anger and his eyes wide with rage.

    ¡°How could you admit defeat?¡±

    He admitted defeat!

    How could Chen Jun admit defeat?

    Not only that, he did not even go up on stage and directly surrendered.

    Zhao Ziyang had nned to unleash his Qi Grandmaster strength the moment he entered the fight, swiftly killing Chen Jun without giving him a chance to surrender.

    However, Chen Jun''s immediate surrender from the sidelines left Zhao Ziyang feeling like his punch hadnded on cotton¡ªineffective and powerless.

    Boiling rage erupted from the depths of Zhao Ziyang¡¯s heart like a volcano. Intense killing intent emanated from him, and he was on the verge of rushing over to end Chen Jun.

    The crowd rolled their eyes back.

    <i>Can¡¯t he admit defeat?</i>

    ¡°Ahem, the victor of this match is Zhao Ziyang.¡±

    Wanderer Dead Tree coughed dryly.

    He was really worried that Zhao Ziyang would act recklessly.

    After four hours, the first round concluded with half of the eighty-eight participants eliminated. Surprisingly, all Chen n members, except for Chen Jun, advanced to the second round, stunning the onlookers.

    The second round began very soon. The talented youths went up to the battle arenas once more.

    Wanderer Dead Tree called out Chen Chuge to fight against Zhao Ziyang. However, Chen Fan intervened again, sparing Chen Chuge from the confrontation.

    ¡°Admit defeat.¡±

    Zhao Ziyang¡¯s gaze turned icy.

    Chen Chuge had killed Zhao Qian in the first battle. Zhao Ziyang had to kill him.

    Yet, Chen Chuge didn''t even set foot on the stage, immediately surrendering and denying Zhao Ziyang the opportunity for revenge. Although burning with rage inside, he had no choice but to endure it.

    1. In 240 Chen Jian was one of the juniors mentioned to have be a Qi Grandmaster. He didn¡¯t raise his aura to the max and reveal his true cultivation level. ?

 Chapter 249 - Shocking Everyone

    <h4>Chapter 249 - Shocking Everyone</h4>

    In the second round, three participants from the Chen n¡ªChen Chuge, Chen Kai, and Chen Luoyang¡ªwere eliminated. Meanwhile, Chen Qingqing, Chen Jian, Chen Yaoyao, and Chen Lei advanced to the third round.

    After two rounds, only twenty-two participants remained out of the initial eighty-eight. With the exception of the Chen n, the other ten great ns were only left with three participants on the higher side, and only one participant on the lower side.

    Despite the initial public skepticism, the Chen n surprised everyone by having four members advance to the third round, the most among all ns.

    The crowd had expected the Chen n to rank at the bottom in the City sh Convention, expecting them to be eliminated in the first two rounds.

    Contrary to their beliefs, all the Chen n''s juniors disyed remarkable power, showcasing their eighth-level cultivation.

    In these rounds, if it were not for Chen Jun and Chen Chuge being matched against Zhao Ziyang, the Chen n could have had six juniors advancing to the third round.

    All the participants in the third round were at the eighth level of the Qigong realm.

    The crowd¡¯s gazes heated up.

    In the battles toe, it could be truly said to be battles between dragons and tigers.

    After taking a one-hour break, the third round began.

    ¡°This really is a case of beauty and strength gathered as one. Qian Ling definitely has the strength to ce in the top three.¡±

    ¡°Zhao Ziyang will undoubtedly take first ce, Zheng Yan second, and Qian Ling third. Nothing needs to be said about Zhao Ziyang. With peak-stage, eighth-level cultivation, he leaves everyone in the dust. Zheng Yan and Qian Ling are both at thete stage of the eighth level and are equally matched.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, the great ns tried to set a trap for the Chen n; surprisingly, their juniors turned out quite formidable. Even if they don''t secure a spot in the top three, a top-five position seems quite likely."

    ¡°I know, right? Who would have thought things would end up like this?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd watched as qi rippled intensely from the five battle tforms. The fighters darted about, and booming noises rang out continuously.

    All participants in the third round were at the eighth level. There could have been slight differences in their strengths, but they were not substantial enough to make the fighters concede defeat easily.

    At this stage of thepetition, the third round could be the final round. This round would determine the various ns¡¯ final rankings and which ns would be hemorrhaging money.

    Thus, every participant fought fiercely, practically fighting for their lives, as the results directly impacted their n''s interests.

    ¡°Main battle tform, Chen n¡¯s Chen Qingqing versus Zhao n¡¯s Zhao Ziyang.¡±

    As Wanderer Dead Tree¡¯s voice fell, countless gazes immediately turned to them.

    In the previous two rounds, the Chen n¡¯s juniors had both chosen to surrender when matched against Zhao Ziyang.

    Would the Chen n do the same for this battle?

    ¡°Hehe, another victory without a fight.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Chen Qingqing is the youngest of the participants, but her cultivation is also in the eighth level. She¡¯s a real genius. There¡¯s a chance that she will surpass Zhao Ziyang in the future. The Chen n will definitely not let her take this risk.¡±

    Chen Fan had yet to say anything, but everyone in the crowd had already expected Chen Qingqing to surrender.

    However, to the crowd''s astonishment, Chen Fan remained silent, refraining from making any derations. Meanwhile, Chen Qingqing took the initiative and ascended to the main battle tform.

    ¡°This...¡±

    The crowd was stunned.

    Even Zhao Ziyang stood there, dumbfounded.

    He hadn¡¯t even thought about walking onto the tform, as he had also expected Chen Qingqing to dere her surrender and Wanderer Dead Tree to dere his victory.

    However, Chen Fan did not speak up, and Chen Qingqing had walked onto the stage.

    This was unexpected! The crowd immediately broke out into discussions.

    ¡°Is this for real? Chen Qingqing is going to fight Zhao Ziyang?¡±

    ¡°She must be crazy! Chen Jun and Chen Chuge admitted defeat right away. But she actually wants to battle Zhao Ziyang. Is she actually the strongest among the Chen n¡¯s juniors?¡±

    ¡°Crazy, she¡¯s definitely gone crazy.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Zhao Ziyang soon returned to his senses.

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡±

    Unable to contain his amusement, he burst intoughter. Swiftly, he moved, creating a gust of wind as he rushed up to the main battle tform.

    His aura erupted, generating a heavy pressure that enveloped Chen Qingqing. He said sinisterly, ¡°Girl, no one in heaven or earth can save you now!¡±

    Zhao Ziyang immediately struck swift as the wind.

    Fearing that Chen Qingqing might surrender quickly, he wanted to seize the opportunity to eliminate a Chen n member quickly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯ll hold back just because you¡¯re a girl! That won¡¯t happen! Die!¡±

    His chilling words echoed through the air, sending shivers down the spines of countless spectators.

    ¡°Heavens, this... Zhao Ziyang is actually... a Qi Grandmaster!¡±

    ¡°Qi Grandmaster! Zhao Ziyang is actually a Qi Grandmaster powerhouse!¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s dead. That girl is dead, for sure. Zhao Ziyang is a Qi Grandmaster. Someone at the eighth level is no different from an ant to him.¡±

    He truly deserves to be called the strongest among Watermoon City''s younger generation. A Qi Grandmaster at eighteen is a rarity even across a century."

    ¡°Zhao Ziyang hid it so deeply.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Zhao Ziyang attacked, he made no effort to conceal his aura. His Qi Grandmaster cultivation manifested in a phenomenon where his qi reached the clouds.

    His rapid and forceful assault, apanied by a sense of oppression, left the crowd''s hearts heavy and their minds in terror.

    Zhao Ziyang had truly surpassed the younger generation of Watermoon City.

    Even though the Zheng n shared a close rtionship with the Zhao n, Zheng Yan, the top junior of the Zheng n, seemed surprised as he watched Zhao Ziyang.

    ¡°He¡¯s actually a Qi Grandmaster!¡±

    The beautiful Qian Ling, dubbed the number one beauty of Watermoon City, also looked at the main battle tform, an unusual light flickering in her eyes.

    The Zhao n¡¯s juniors cheered excitedly, their faces red and their necks thick.

    ¡°Kill! Kill the Chen n¡¯s people!¡±

    ¡°Use that girl¡¯s blood to tribute Zhao Qian¡¯s soul in heaven.¡±

    ¡°Brother Ziyang is mighty! Brother Ziyang is invincible!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Zhao Ziyang was fast, looking like a blur as he moved. He instantly appeared before Chen Qingqing and mmed his palm down, wielding a fierce, domineering aura.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    This palm strike could turn even iron and stone into powder, not to mention a person¡¯s head.

    Some people turned their heads away, unwilling to see such a gory scene.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice rang out.

    ¡°Qingqing, there''s no need to hide any longer. Strike!"

    <i>Hum!</i>

    A humming sound resonated as Chen Qingqing''s attire fluttered. A translucent wave of qi emanated from her, visibly sweeping outward. Zhao Ziyang''s momentum abruptly stopped upon contact, and his expression darkened.

    Chen Qingqing¡¯s arm moved wildly, executing Undefeated King¡¯s Fist.

    ¡°Haaa!¡±

    An invincible aura radiated from her fists, swift as thunder and as potent as falling meteors. The forceful blows surged toward Zhao Ziyang, making the air explode.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Zhao Ziyang¡¯s Hand of Great Agony collided with Chen Qingqing''s Undefeated King''s Fist and crumbled like paper or tofu.

    A terrifying fist force struck Zhao Ziyang through space, smashing through his protective primeval qi.

    Zhao Ziyang was knocked back and fell on the battle tform¡¯s floor with a thud, spewing a mouthful of fresh blood.

    His gaze was filled with shock and disbelief. ¡°Qi Grandmaster... you¡¯re also a Qi Grandmaster. How is that possible?¡±

 Chapter 250 - On the Verge of Conflict

    <h4>Chapter 250 - On the Verge of Conflict</h4>

    The entire arena was left in astonishment as Zhao Ziyang, a Qi Grandmaster, unexpectedly crashed to the ground and spat blood. The onlookers, wide-eyed and skeptical, stared at him.

    The fact that a little girl had sent Zhao Ziyang flying with a punch and proved to be a Qi Grandmaster herself was mind-boggling for the spectators.

    A Qi Grandmaster at only fifteen or sixteen years old?

    Even if the Chen n was throwing resources at her, it should be impossible for them to produce a Qi Grandmaster at only fifteen or sixteen years old, right?

    If a Qi Grandmaster could be produced just by spendingrge amounts of resources, then the prestigious ns with hundreds of years of heritage, like the Zhao n or the Zheng n, would have done so long ago.

    Suddenly, an explosion rang from the main battle tform.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Zhao Ziyang mmed his palm on the ground and rose to his feet. He wiped away the fresh blood at the corners of his lips and stared at Chen Qingqing coldly.

    Even he hadn¡¯t expected Chen Qingqing to be a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°So what if you¡¯re a Qi Grandmaster? I¡¯ll kill you all the same!¡±

    His eyes radiated an intense killing intent, and his aura boiled violently.

    Earlier, Chen Qingqing had caught him off guard and sent him flying, stealing the initiative.

    Since he now knew that Chen Qingqing was also a Qi Grandmaster, he would no longer underestimate her.

    Zhao Ziyang¡¯s powerful cultivation erupted, and ghostly wails rang in space.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    With a fling of his sleeves, a qi wave rolled and transformed into a tornado, threatening to sweep up Chen Qingqing and shred her into pieces.

    <i>Hum!</i>

    Despite her youth, Chen Qingqing''s physique surpassed that of ordinary Qi Grandmasters, thanks to the tempering with Chen Fan''s precious blood. Her physique now rivaled that of a Yuanfu realm expert.

    Moreover, Chen Fan had performed martial infusion on Chen Qingqing using the Fountain of Life instead of demon or corpse cores. A newbie Qi Grandmaster like Zhao Ziyang could only dream of a foundation like hers.

    As the sh ensued, the qi around Chen Qingqing emitted a resonant noise resembling arge bronze bell. Zhao Ziyang''s qi copsed against hers, unable to budge her even slightly.

    ¡°Hiss, Chen Qingqing is so strong. The sense of oppression I feel from her is even heavier than what I feel from Zhao Ziyang.¡±

    ¡°How did such a monster appear in the Chen n? A Qi Grandmaster at only fifteen or sixteen years old, and she¡¯s so strong!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget about Chen Fan. He¡¯s also a junior but already a Yuanfu realm expert.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone in the crowd was shocked to see Chen Qingqing easily break Zhao Ziyang¡¯s attack.

    Zhao Ziyang¡¯s expression turned even uglier. His killing intent materialized above him, coalescing into a formidable force amidst the gathering winds and clouds.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    He rubbed his palms together, unleashing a torrent of mes that morphed into many fiery creatures¡ªhorses, crows, mice, tigers, snakes. The radiant sun, aze with fire, descended upon Chen Qingqing.

    ¡°This is the Nine Transformations of Purple Sun, a mid-profound tier cultivation method exclusive to esteemed Zhao n members like Zhao Kongming and Zhao Ziyang!¡±

    The crowd immediately recognized the martial art.

    Chen Qingqing faced the onught with unwaveringposure.

    ¡°Break," she uttered delicately and stepped forward. Her aura stirred the atmosphere, and her fists, imbued with the strength to cleave mountains, ruptured the air with explosive power.

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    A resounding rumble ensued as her force dispersed in all directions, creating thunderous echoes.

    Chen Fan had imparted Undefeated King¡¯s Fist to Chen Qingqing. However, she started practicing it not long ago and could barely use it; she couldn¡¯t even form a head and two arms. Still, her attacks with it were mighty.

    Summoning her strength like a soaring dragon, she generated swirling qi vortexes.

    Immediately, the countless fiery horses, mice, snakes, and tigers were blown apart, reduced to sparks, and falling to the ground.

    The sparks burned tiny, needle-sized holes into the hard marble floor of the battle tform. It went to show how powerful those mes were.

    Chen Fan looked at Chen Qingqing with a gaze full of praise, nodding repeatedly.

    ¡°Fire Qilin!¡±

    Fiery primeval qi shot out from Zhao Ziyang¡¯s eyes. All the mes transformed into a huge Fire Qilin, galloping and roaring as it pounced at Chen Qingqing.

    mes rose into the sky as the Fire Qilin moved. It opened its mouth and spat out beads of fire-lightning in rapid session. Then, the Fire Qilin emitted a fiery aura, enveloping Chen Qingqing.

    The crowd immediately saw the floor melting and caving inward. The once solid marble transformed into a viscous ceramic ze liquid.

    Waves of heat rolled out, making the crowd feel like a volcano had erupted and that they were facing a disaster.

    ¡°What a terrifying cultivation technique. So, this is Zhao Ziyang¡¯s true might? I wonder if Chen Qingqing can withstand this!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s pupils shrank, and their minds trembled.

    Within that fiery aura, Chen Qingqing showed no signs of fear, a serious expression on her tiny face.

    She revolved her cultivation technique fiercely, even summoning her physical strength. Her aura grew even stronger.

    Repeatedly executing the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, she unleashed all nine moves with thunderous speed, shaking the surroundings like an undefeated king.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The terrifying power pierced through the air, ruthlessly sting the Fire Qilin¡¯s head. The huge Fire Qilin cried miserably and copsed on the spot.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump...</i>

    Zhao Ziyang staggered back several steps, only to be met by a fierce gust of wind as Chen Qingqing lunged at him. As her fist grewrger in his field of vision, a chill went down his spine, and he froze.

    Zhao Ziyang roared furiously.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    However, his primeval qi was directly blown apart with a bang. Then, he felt an excruciating pain in his arm. He even heard his bones breaking.

    Zhao Ziyang screamed in pain, staggering backward.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Chen Qingqing unleashed a flurry of furious blows akin to meteor strikes, relentlessly pounding Zhao Ziyang. The air was filled with the sickening sounds of bones breaking, apanied by the wild spewing of blood.

    Zhao Ziyang was about to get killed, and he couldn¡¯t even shout for his surrender. Zhao Kongming could no longer sit still.

    ¡°You evil beast, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    He shot up to his feet and turned into a blur, appearing above the battle tform. A palm pressed down toward Chen Qingqing.

    Like heavenly might, the pressure descended upon Chen Qingqing, forcing her to slow down.

    Yet, this pressure swiftly dissipated as Chen Zhengqing intervened.

    He appeared above Chen Qingqing as if he had teleported. He unleashed his cultivation, and it collided with the palm.

    The collision created a resounding rumble, resembling a meteor crashing into the earth. The space at their meeting point seemed on the verge of copse.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Qingqing¡¯s punch simultaneouslynded on Zhao Ziyang.

    Despite Zhao Ziyang trying his best to dodge the attack, it was useless. While he might have escaped death, his cultivation was crippled.

    ¡°Ziyang!¡±

    Zhao Kongming grabbed Zhao Ziyang. He quickly realized that Zhao Ziyang¡¯s cultivation had been crippled, and he was mere martial waste now. A terrifying gale immediately erupted from Zhao Kongming, shaking the space.

    ¡°Chen n, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Terrifying killing intent erupted from Zhao Kongming, and it seemed like even the space was trembling in fear.

 Chapter 251 - The Hidden Blade is Revealed

    <h4>Chapter 251 - The Hidden de is Revealed</h4>

    The wind stopped.

    The air turned icy.

    All eyes in the crowd narrowed as they focused on Zhao Kongming. He was enraged and surging with killing intent, his aura boiling.

    Big trouble!

    No one had thought the battle between Zhao Ziyang and Chen Qingqing would end like this.

    From the beginning to the end, Chen Qingqing dominated Zhao Ziyang effortlessly. In the final moments, even Zhao Kongming couldn''t prevent his son from meeting a tragic fate.

    Zhao Ziyang had lost his cultivation, and his status would now be lower than an ant''s.

    The participants'' fate was disregarded on the battle tform unless they surrendered.

    However, that was Zhao Ziyang¡ªZhao Kongming¡¯s son, the Zhao n¡¯s Young Patriarch, and the number one genius of the Zhao n¡¯s younger generation.

    With Zhao Ziyang crippled, could Zhao Kongming remain passive? Would he still abide by the martial arts meet''s rules?

    The atmosphere in the crowd grew heavy as if ominous clouds were descending upon the city, ready to wreak havoc.

    The conflict between the Chen n and the Zhao n had irreversibly deepened.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Every one of you deserves to die!¡±

    Zhao Kongming hadpletely lost all rationality. He had a malevolent expression that starkly contrasted with the dignified demeanor he had previously shown as the Zhao n''s patriarch.

    The killing intenting from him covered heaven and earth. The temperature in the area plummeted as if they were in the middle of winter.

    As martial artists, simple coldness couldn¡¯t affect them.

    However, this chilling sensation was different.

    This was killing intent. It was an intense killing intent that prated to the bone, overpowering even Qi Grandmasters.

    Over at the Zhao n¡¯s stand, experts stood up one after another. Their demeanor mirrored Zhao Kongming''s, brimming with killing intent, as they red at the Chen n.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump.</i>

    At the slimmest signal from Zhao Kongming, they wouldunch into a merciless assault, ready to end the lives of the Chen n members.

    ¡°Big trouble! Big trouble! Are they about to go to war?¡±

    The crowd felt the tense atmosphere in the arena that was thick with the possibility of a massive and tragic fight. Everyone¡¯s mind was trembling non-stop.

    Zhao Kongming¡¯s cold gaze was directed at Chen Zhengqing and the others, as he emanated a shockingly strong killing intent.

    ¡°Chen n, every one of you deserves to die!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing said with a cold expression, ¡°Watch your words, Patriarch Zhao! On the stage, as long as no one concedes, their life or death is up to fate. You can¡¯t me my Chen n when your son¡¯s skills fall short.¡±

    Zhao Kongmingughed maniacally, and his churning aura grew even fiercer.

    ¡°Hahahaha, up to fate? His skills are inferior? Good one!¡±

    ¡°What nonsensical rules! My son¡¯s life is a hundred times¡ªno, a thousand times more precious than your entire Chen nbined! Even wiping out your n wouldn''t suffice to pay for it! Today, every member of your Chen n will be buried here!"

    The Zhao n¡¯s people roared furiously, shaking the sky.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, it seems Patriarch Zhao is nning to sh with my Chen n. Given the circumstances, there''s no need for games. Summon those thirty-something Yuanfu realm experts hidden within your mansion." Chen Zhengqing did not need to feign civility anymore. He directly exposed that over thirty Yuanfu realm experts hid deep inside the Zhao n¡¯s mansion.

    Zhao Kongming¡¯s pupils immediately shrunk violently.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Qian Tongtian, Zhang Huaiyuan, and the others quickly stood up, their faces filled with shock.

    <i>More than thirty Yuanfu realm experts!</i>

    <i>When did the Zhao n amass such a force?</i>

    ¡°You¡¯ve actually noticed them!¡± Zhao Kongming did not deny it despite sounding a bit surprised.

    ¡°Hoho, I noticed them the moment I stepped into your mansion.¡±

    Chen Zhengqingughed coldly. He conveniently omitted that Chen Fan had informed him, as Chen Fan served as the Chen n''s hidden ace.

    ¡°Tell them to show themselves. I do want to see which ns your Zhao n colluded with to plot against my Chen n!¡± Chen Zhengqing said coldly.

    ¡°Haha, Brother Kongming, why bother wasting your breath on them? He must be stalling for time to call for reinforcements. Let¡¯s strike now, as agreed. It¡¯s time for Watermoon City to undergo some changes,¡± said Zheng Qinghu as he stood up.

    Simultaneously, the members of the Li, Sun, Wang, and Wu ns all stood up, emitting icy auras and sealing the area. They red at the Chen, Qian, Zhang, L¨·, and Zhou n members.

    ¡°Zhao Kongming, Zheng Qinghu, what do you mean by this?¡± said Qian Tongtian, as his expression darkened, realizing that the City sh Convention held moreplexity than initially expected¡ªit was more of a Hongmen Banquet.

    ¡°Send the signal. Call for reinforcements!¡± Zhang Huaiyuan cried out, and fireworks exploded into the sky.

    Zhao Kongming narrowed his eyes. Chilling killing intent surged as he roared, ¡°Come out, all of you!¡±

    Immediately, numerous powerful auras surged to the skies from the depths of the Zhao n¡¯s mansion, stirring the wind and clouds. They were all Yuanfu realm auras, numbering no fewer than thirty.

    Qian Tongtian shrieked, ¡°Zhao Kongming, your six great ns have united to eliminate us!"

    ¡°Hoho, Qian Tongtian, Brother Kongming extended an invitation to the four great ns, but you turned him down. So, there¡¯s no need for the four great ns to continue to exist in Watermoon City,¡± Zheng Qinghu remarked with a coldugh,ying bare the truth.

    The hidden de had been revealed!

    ¡°You want to wipe out our ns? You won¡¯t have it easy, either!¡± Qian Tongtian said sternly.

    Li Yuanbaughed maniacally and said, ¡°Hahahaha, Qian Tongtian, do you believe there''s any hope for you few? Thirty-four Yuanfu realm experts are here, not to mention Brother Kongming and Brother Qinghu, who are both at the fifth level. How long will we need to kill you?

    ¡°By the time your reinforcements are here, you will already be dead. Can they still overturn the situation? Hahaha...¡±

    The crowd felt a chill in their hearts.

    No one had expected the Zhao n to set up an inescapable with the five great ns to wipe out the other great ns.

    ¡°Damn it! Zhao Kongming, Zheng Qinghu, all of you deserve to die!¡± The patriarchs, Zhou Butong and L¨· Hou, roared fiercely.

    ¡°Haha, Zhou Butong, L¨· Hou, we won¡¯t die... because you will!¡± Li Yuanbaughed coldly.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    At this time, the sound of wind breaking rang out.

    The thirty-something Yuanfu realm experts hiding in the Zhao n¡¯s mansion received the signal and came rushing to the martial arts arena.

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing, your Chen n will be annihted today! I¡¯ll avenge my son with your Chen n¡¯s blood! None of your people will be spared!¡±

    Zhao Kongming looked at Chen Zhengqing and added coldly, ¡°I forgot to mention this. I sent third-level Yuanfu realm experts to Xuanyang City as well. None of your Chen n¡¯s people will escape!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s expression sank as soon as he heard this.

    However, Chen Fan said, ¡°No need to worry, Father. Those people will only be walking into their deaths if they go.¡±

    Chen Tianxiong was indeed no match for third-level Yuanfu realm experts. However, with the Mountain River Stars Grand Array in ce, it would be no different from throwing their lives away if they tried to kill their way into the Chen n mansion.

 Chapter 252 - Unparalleled Momentum

    <h4>Chapter 252 - Unparalleled Momentum</h4>

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Thirty-two Yuanfu realm experts flew out of Zhao n''s mansion. Their auras shocked heaven and earth and broke the white clouds in the sky into pieces. They instantly surrounded Chen Fan and the others, cold killing intent emanating from every one of them.

    Countless people¡¯s teeth chattered in the face of this formation.

    While Watermoon City had its share of Yuanfu realm experts, witnessing such a concentrated assembly of them, all poised for bloodshed, was unprecedented. Thebination of the formation and the palpable killing intent caused some faint-hearted individuals to copse, and a few even sumbed to fear-induced deaths, vomiting green bile.

    ¡°Patriarch Zhao, Patriarch Zheng, we have nothing to do with this. We¡¯re only here to watch the City sh Convention.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, please don¡¯t kill us. We¡¯re innocent.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll leave immediately. Please spare us.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people started begging for mercy.

    Zhao Kongming shouted coldly, ¡°Those who are not involved, get lost!¡±

    Those here only to watch the show immediately felt they had been granted an amnesty. They scrambled out of Zhao n''s mansion, squeezing and trampling on one another. Some people were even trampled to death.

    Zhang Huaiyuan, Zhou Butong, and L¨· Hou approached Qian Tongtian, their expressions ugly. ¡°Patriarch Qian, what do we do?¡±

    The City sh Convention had unexpectedly turned out to be a Hongmen Banquet.

    Even though these figures were usually at the pinnacle of Watermoon City''s hierarchy, their current situation left them vastly outnumbered. Each n had only one or two experts present, and even whenbining forces, they had no more than ten Yuanfu realm experts. How could they resist the formidable alliance of the Zhao n with that?

    Qian Tongtian¡¯s expression was also extremely dark. His eyes flickered, and he looked at Chen Zhengqing. ¡°Brother Chen, the fate of our five ns hangs in the bnce today. I wonder about your ns."

    Since Chen Zhengqing had noticed the thirty-two hidden Yuanfu realm at the very start, he should be somewhat prepared for the situation.

    So, they waited to see how Chen Zhengqing would respond.

    Chen Zhengqing did not speak. Instead, Chen Fan stepped forward with a cold gaze. ¡°n? What ns do we need?¡±

    Facing the formation of thirty-two Yuanfu realm experts, he showed no signs of fear.

    A hint of contempt flickered in his eyes as he addressed Zhao Kongming and the others who were confident in their numerical advantage. ¡°You think you will win for sure just because the numbers are on your side? Let me tell you, in front of absolute strength, all schemes and tricks are nothing more than paper tigers¡ªuseless! No matter how many people you have, you¡¯re nothing but a group of trash in front of absolute strength!¡±

    His words were so arrogant that Zhao Kongming, Zheng Qinghu, and the others¡¯ pupils contracted violently.

    ¡°Hoho, brat, looks like you still have no idea how dire the situation is for you. Fine, I¡¯ll bring you to your senses!¡± Zheng Qinghuughed coldly. Suddenly, he disappeared, appeared in front of Chen Fan, and struck out with a palm.

    Facing Zheng Qinghu¡¯s palm strike, Chen Fan showed no fear. He spat out four words indifferently. ¡°You¡¯re like an ant!¡±

    A loud rumble came from inside Chen Fan. It was as if the waters of the Yangtze River were surging. His bones rubbed against one another, producing a thunderous sound.

    ¡°A punch is all I need to kill trash like you!¡± He raised his fist and threw it toward Zheng Qinghu.

    Zheng Qinghu¡¯s expression was sinister. ¡°Little bastard, advancing to the Yuanfu realm at such a young age has made you lose touch with reality. You dare spout such arrogant words when you¡¯re merely at the first level. You¡¯re really looking to die!¡±

    Zheng Qinghu put more force into his palm strike with that.

    However, when he made contact with Chen Fan¡¯s fist, the sinister look on his face froze.

    He sensed an overwhelming strength emanating from Chen Fan''s fist, akin to that of a god. The force in his palm disintegrated upon encountering this formidable power.

    Before he could express his shock, the terrifying strength washed over him like a torrent, rushing into him, wreaking havoc, and erupting.

    With a boom, a fifth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse disintegrated into a mist of blood and fleshy bits.

    A stunned silence enveloped the surroundings.

    Everyone felt as if they had taken a heavy blow to their souls. They felt as if their heart had skipped a beat.

    Even Zhao Kongming¡¯s expression froze. Zheng Qinghu was as strong as him, yet Chen Fan, an eighteen-year-old youth, killed him with one blow!

    He even suspected he was suffering from hallucinations!

    Momentster, sorrowful cries came from the Zheng n¡¯s side.

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Father!¡±

    Their patriarch, pir, stabilizing force, and number two expert of Watermoon City, Zheng Qinghu, had died.

    Zhao Kongming had alsoe to his senses. He looked at Chen Fan in astonishment, his voice shivering a little as he said, ¡°You killed Brother Qinghu!¡±

    Chen Fan waved his fist and said, ¡°Wasn¡¯t that obvious enough?¡±

    Seeing the smile on Chen Fan¡¯s lips, Zhao Kongming felt a chill run from his soles to his skull.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s gaze also revealed shock. He knew Chen Fan was strong, much stronger than him. However, he didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to be strong enough to kill someone at the fifth level like they were a dog.

    Only now did he understand why Chen Fan showed no worry despite noticing Zhao n¡¯s plot.

    Chen Fan was just that confident in his strength.

    As Chen Fan had said earlier, all schemes and tricks were like paper tigers in the face of absolute strength.

    His lonesome strength would crush them, and a single sword would cut them down.

    ¡°Still think you can eradicate my n with just numbers?¡±

    Chen Fan had his hands behind his back, and his clothes fluttered in the wind. His expression was calm, giving off an air of nobility,pletely disregarding the surrounding Yuanfu realm experts.

    ¡°Today, Watermoon City shall undergo a huge change. Your six ns shall be removed!¡±

    His icy voice reverberated in their ears like a cold, chilling wind from the Arctic ice ins, making Zhao Kongming and the others shiver. They no longer looked cocksure.

    ¡°Everyone, get him together. No matter how powerful this sinful beast is, he can¡¯t possibly be a match for so many of us!¡± roared Zhao Kongming.

    He suppressed the heavy pounding in his heart. He was well aware that they could not afford to dy any longer.

    If the Qian, Zhang, Zhou, and L¨· ns¡¯ reinforcements arrived, their schemes would failpletely.

    A blood-red spear appeared in his hand. His cultivation erupted, and what seemed like a torrent of magma appeared above his head, quickly attacking Chen Fan.

    The strategy was clear: eliminate the leader to disband the opposition.

    Zhao Kongming initially believed Chen Zhengqing to be their main opponent, but the unfolding events corrected that misconception. It became evident that Chen Fan held the title of the strongest.

    If they killed Chen Fan, then Chen Zhengqing, Qian Tongtian, and the others would likely pose little challenge.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Avenge the patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡±

    Immediately, the auras of the surrounding six ns¡¯ Yuanfu realm experts erupted. Wielding their weapons, more than twenty Yuanfu realm experts struck at Chen Fan together.

    Their cultivation boomed, rolling across the space. The winds stormed wildly.

    The momentum of more than twenty Yuanfu realm experts¡¯bined attacks was like a flood washing over the space. It was iparably mighty and gave people chills.

    Despite mainly being first, second, or third-level Yuanfu realm experts, except for higher-tier experts like Zhao Kongming or Li Yuanba, the coordinated assault was overwhelming, capable of moving mountains and rivers.

    This joint offensive could y even a sixth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse on the spot.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s scalp turned numb at the sight of the terrifying attacks. ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    Chen Fanughed and said, ¡°No need to worry, Father. They don¡¯t amount to anything.¡±

    He let out a roar. His voice was like thunder, shaking the heavens. He immediately kicked off into the air, rushing toward thebined attacks of the twenty-something Yuanfu realm experts.

 Chapter 253 â€“ Massacre

    <h4>Chapter 253 ¨C Massacre</h4>

    A huge battle broke out!

    Zhao Kongming and Li Yuanba, two of the top experts of Watermoon City, along with more than twenty Yuanfu realm experts in the first, second, or third level, had attacked Chen Fan together.

    Their cultivations erupted violently, their qi reaching the clouds and stirring them. Even the space itself shook violently.

    The air resonated with a humming sound as streams of qi shot upward, resembling erupting magma, falling snow, crumbling earth, and descending meteors, creating a tumultuous scene that shook the heavens.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    More than twenty Yuanfu realm experts joined forces and struck together. Their auras flooded the space like a powerful torrent, obliterating everything in their path.

    Even a sixth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse would not dare to face such an onught head-on and would be forced to evade.

    Those from the crowd who had yet to escape the martial arts arena were pushed to the ground by the terrifying aura from thisbined attack. They felt their qi and blood surging wildly and churning as if they were about to meet their end.

    Even though Chen Fan was the target of this attack, the people were scared out of their wits under this oppressive aura.

    Chen Zhengqing, Qian Tongtian, and the others¡¯plexions turned pale.

    They were sure that they didn¡¯t have the ability to dodge this attack. Had they been the target, they would have be a bloody mist.

    Chen Zhengqing gritted his teeth and shouted, thinking about rushing over to give Chen Fan a helping hand. ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    He knew that Chen Fan was powerful, but he wasn¡¯t confident that Chen Fan could survive such a devastating attack.

    The force of the attack created a violent wind, making Chen Fan''s clothes flutter loudly. It seemed like an ancient divine mountain was bearing down on him, yet Chen Fan remained unafraid. Hisughter echoed as he said, ¡°No need to worry, Father. They don¡¯t amount to anything!¡±

    The sound of explosions reverberated like thunder, but Chen Fan''s eyes shone with determination. Swift as an arrow, he darted into the onught with confidence, meeting thebined attack head-on.

    Witnessing this audacious move, some onlookers were so shocked that they fainted.

    After leaving the city lord¡¯s mansion, the onlookers leaped onto the roofs of the buildings, wanting to watch the situation inside. When they saw Chen Fan rushing into the attack, their expressions changed wildly, and they trembled.

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°Is he looking to die? That¡¯s abined attack from more than twenty Yuanfu realm experts. Even if he could kill Zheng Qinghu in one punch, he can¡¯t receive this attack!¡±

    ¡°Arrogant, Chen Fan is too arrogant! Even a sixth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse will have to dodge this attack. Why would he dare to receive it?¡±

    ¡°Just watch. He won¡¯t even have his corpse after this!¡±

    ¡°This is like an egg meeting a rock...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    These people¡¯s eyes were throbbing as they shook their heads subconsciously. They couldn''t fathom Chen Fan''s audacity, attributing it to his early sess at a young age.

    After all, Chen Fan could kill a fifth-level Yuanfu realm expert while only being seventeen or eighteen years old.

    It was rare to find someone like him, even in the entire Great Chu Empire. People like him usually lead the new generation.

    Or perhaps it was due to his early sess that his personality had turned arrogant, thinking he was powerful and could face abined attack from twenty-something Yuanfu realm experts.

    ......

    ¡°Today, let the fresh blood of Yuanfu realm experts dye this mansion red!¡±

    Chen Fan rubbed his palms together. The Heaven Piercing Spear appeared, and he no longer concealed his aura, bringing forth his sixth-level cultivation.

    ¡°Break!¡± With a shout, Chen Fan met that terrifying attack that was smashing down like a sun. He thrust his arm forward. The Heaven Piercing Spear erupted with the power to pierce through heaven. At the tip of the spear echoed the sound of gods or devils howling, creating a hellish vortex.

    The spear pierced through the void, obliterating everything in its path.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Under the attack with the spear, there was nothing it couldn¡¯t destroy, nothing that didn¡¯t break, and nothing that could stop it.

    A resounding boom echoed as a terrifying hurricane rolled out at the point of impact, shattering the floor tiles and reducing the entire city lord mansion to ruins.

    The resulting storm of wind from this attack scraped three feet of earth off the ground.

    Engaged inbat with other Yuanfu realm experts, Chen Zhengqing, Qian Tongtian, and the others were also caught in the ferocious storm. It felt like a massive mountain had crashed into them, sending them flying with shock evident on their faces.

    ¡°Break! Break! Break!¡±

    Like a god, Chen Fan stabbed three times in a row.

    Every stab had tremendous power that could topple mountains, overturn and split the seas.

    Thebined attack from Zhao Kongming and more than twenty Yuanfu realm experts creaked under this terrifying power.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    In the blink of an eye, to the astonishment of the onlookers, Chen Fan''s spear shattered thebined assault, rattling their very souls.

    Zhao Kongming and the others suffered a bacsh. As they flew backward, their insides churned, and they tasted sweetness in their throat before spewing outrge mouthfuls of fresh blood. It looked like a bloody downpour.

    <i>Pfft, pfft, pfft...</i>

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    Zhao Kongming¡¯s eyes went wider than copper bells, his eyeballs quivering as if on the verge of falling out. He gazed at Chen Fan in sheer astonishment as if the young man before him embodied a god or a demon.

    Abined attack from so many of them could kill even a sixth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    However, someone as young as Chen Fan had broken it. Not only that, but their attack also failed to make contact with the hem of his shirt. What kind of terrifying strength was that!

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    ¡°Impossible...¡±

    ¡°I must be dreaming... right! Surely, I must be dreaming!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not real, this definitely is not real!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The onlookers were dumbfounded. Their expressions went nk, mumbling to themselves. They could not believe what they had just seen.

    Even Chen Zhengqing, Qian Tongtian, and the others were the same.

    However, Chen Fan did not have the time to care about any of this.

    His gaze was iparably fierce. He turned into a blur, charging toward Zhao Kongming and the others.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear in his hand was like a grim reaper¡¯s death scythe. Heaven and earth shook, and the stars wavered with a stab. They felt like they were falling into an abyss.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Cold killing intent erupted from Chen Fan.

    He was like the autumn wind sweeping the fallen leaves or a ferocious tiger in a herd of sheep, sweeping everywhere like an invincible god of war.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    With a thrust, a third-level Yuanfu realm expert died without even getting the opportunity to scream.

    The air exploded from a kick. A first-level Yuanfu realm expert screamed and tried to dodge but failed to do a thing. He directly blew up into a mist of blood.

    Immediately, numerous miserable screams rang out one after another.

    ¡°Ahhh, ahhh...¡±

    Chen Fan was like a grim reaper, taking a life away with every strike.

    No one could resist a stab, punch, or kick from him. They either exploded or were pierced.

    Dismembered and broken limbs flew about in the air. Fresh blood fell to the ground like rain.

    This was a massacre!

    Chen Fan¡¯s massacre of Zhao Kongming¡¯s group went on for about ten breaths of time. More than ten Yuanfu realm experts lost their lives.

    The remaining survivors, including top-tier experts like Zhao Kongming and Li Yuanba, retreated far away, trembling in fear. Horrified, they looked at Chen Fan, who seemed to have emerged from hell.

    Chen Fan was a devil. He was too terrifying!

 Chapter 254 - Zhao Ru

    <h4>Chapter 254 - Zhao Ru</h4>

    Zhao Kongming and the others were terrified.

    Chen Fan had easily dismantled their supposedly foolproof n.

    In the span of just ten breaths, more than ten experts from the Yuanfu realm had died.

    Crushed overwhelmingly!

    Zhao Kongming looked at Chen Fan, his teeth chattering.

    ¡°You... how could you be so strong?¡±

    He was roaring furiously inside.

    <i>How is Chen Fan this strong?</i>

    About half a year ago, when Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing had wiped out the Lin n, Chen Fan was only at the first level of the Yuanfu realm.

    Back then, he managed to handle three opponents simultaneously and even outmatched Lin Yao, a second-level Yuanfu realm expert. However, he still wasn¡¯t strong enough to be a threat to Zhao Kongming.

    In a little over half a year, Chen Fan''s cultivation had unexpectedly soared from the first to the sixth level of the Yuanfu realm. His unmatchedbat prowess now instilled fear in others. Zhao Kongming struggled to ept the reality of this rapid transformation.

    ¡°It''s your weakness that''s the issue.¡± Chen Fan smiled contemptuously and said, ¡°Now, what did you say? You losers want to eradicate my n and wash it in blood?¡±

    Zhao Kongming and the others were at a loss for words.

    They were all top experts in Watermoon City.

    He, in particr, was known as the number one expert of Watermoon City. However, before the ferocious and powerful Chen Fan, he was no different from a loser with his puny strength.

    Regretful expressions filled the faces of Li Yuanba and the members of the five allied ns.

    They would have never aligned themselves with the Zhao n if they had known about Chen Fan''s true strength.

    Forget about eliminating the Chen n and Qian n to increase their own strength; they were now on the brink of annihtion themselves.

    In front of Chen Fan, whose strength seemed godlike to them, their numerical advantage was nothing more than a joke.

    ¡°Whatever backup ns you have, just use them all. If you have none, then prepare to go to hell. No one can save you today!¡±

    Chen Fan pointed with his Heaven Piercing Spear, scaring Li Yuanba and the others to shrink their necks back.

    Intimidated, they nced at Zhao Kongming, curious if he truly had any contingency ns. Without such ns, death seemed inevitable.

    Zhao Kongming suppressed the fear in his eyes. His expression turned sinister again as he said, ¡°I underestimated you, little bastard. Still, you won''t leave here alive today!

    ¡°My lord, pleasee out and kill this spiteful brat!¡±

    Suddenly, a menacing aura emanated from the depths of the Zhao n mansion, apanied by a wild and fierce whistle. Pavilions crumbled one after another, sumbing to the oppressive force.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Sensing the powerful aura, Chen Fan narrowed his eyes but showed no signs of fear.

    He had already noticed the faint aura lingering in the depths of the Zhao n mansion. It was concealed so well that even he couldn¡¯t tell the owner¡¯s exact cultivation level.

    Now, the aura was obvious. It belonged to a powerhouse at the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm.

    This person had yet to show himself, but his icy voice resounded in heaven and earth.

    ¡°You bunch of worthless losers. To think that you can¡¯t evenplete such a minor task and need me to make a move!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing and the others¡¯plexions abruptly changed.

    They had assumed that Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming strength had neutralized the threat by crushing the enemies. However, things had taken a sudden turn. There was an even scarier powerhouse hiding deep within the Zhao n.

    Under the pressure of this aura, even Chen Zhengqing felt his soul quiver. Conversely, Li Yuanba and the others appeared ecstatic; the Zhao n indeed had a trump card.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The main hall in the depths of the Zhao n¡¯s rear mountain copsed, and a white-robed figure came flying over. He appeared at the martial arts arena in the blink of an eye.

    At a nce, he looked to be a middle-aged man in his thirties or forties, with a refined appearance like a schr¡¯s. Although he couldn¡¯t be considered handsome, he had an extraordinary temperament.

    However, Chen Zhengqing¡¯s pupils contracted violently, and he eximed, ¡°Zhao Ru!¡±

    ¡°Hmm? It¡¯s you!¡± Zhao Ru looked over, and his eyes lit up. Astonished, he said, ¡°Chen Zhengqing, it¡¯s you! How is this possible? Wasn¡¯t your primeval vessel damaged? Fourth level? How unexpected! It seems your luck is pretty good. I wonder what kind of opportunity you encountered to restore your primeval vessel and advance a bit further. No, wait, you are actually just a step away from reaching the fifth level!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing and Zhao Ru obviously knew one another; an unusual light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°How truly unexpected. Seventeen, or is it eighteen years? Anyway, time sure flew by quickly. I never thought I¡¯d see you again here, Chen Zhengqing.¡± Zhao Ru seemed to be reminiscing. ¡°When we first met in the imperial city, your martial talent was enviable even to me. It wasn¡¯t any lower than that person surnamed Qin, either.¡±

    Suddenly, Zhao Ru¡¯s gaze turned fierce, and he revealed an eerie smile as he said, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for Nangong Yue stopping us, we would have done a lot more than just shattering your primeval vessel.

    ¡°Since I met you today, I shall capture you and send you to that person from the Qin n. Perhaps it¡¯ll be considered a great merit.¡±

    Zhao Ru nced at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Oh, this must be your son! Not bad. He¡¯s already at the sixth level at such a young age. He¡¯s even more outstanding than you used to be. I think that person from the Qin n will also be very interested!¡±

    Although Chen Fan had previously destroyed the joint attack from Zhao Kongming and twenty-something Yuanfu realm experts, Zhao Ru remained unperturbed, confident in his capabilities.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s expression became very cold and ugly. ¡°To call you people brothers, I must have been blind back then.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡± Zhao Ru burst outughing upon hearing this. A thick look of disdain appeared in his eyes, and he said, ¡°Chen Zhengqing, back then, your talent was extraordinary. Second only to that person from the Qin n, even in the imperial city. However, did you really think that was enough for us to think highly of a country bumpkin like you?

    ¡°Every time we called you ¡®Brother Chen,¡¯ we felt like dying from disgust on the inside. What qualifications does a peasant like you have to act all buddy-buddy with us? What qualifications do you have to earn the fancy of Nangong Yue?¡±

    Suddenly, killing intent burst forth in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    No one was allowed to insult his father!

    However, he did not make a move. As he listened to the exchange between Zhao Ru and Chen Zhengqing, he pieced together fragments of the past.

    His heart was throbbing.

    Chen Fan had grown up without a mother. Chen Zhengqing had single-handedly raised him, assuming the roles of both father and mother.

    He had asked Chen Zhengqing about his mother and the damaged primeval vessel. However, Chen Zhengqing had evaded the questions, offering only perfunctory responses.

    Now, amid this confrontation, it felt as if he was edging closer to uncovering the truth.

 Chapter 255 - Terrifying Poison Technique

    <h4>Chapter 255 - Terrifying Poison Technique</h4>

    Nangong Yue¡¯s name brought a look of pain to Chen Zhengqing¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Yue¡¯er...¡±

    Chen Zhengqing raised his head, looked at Zhao Ru, and asked, ¡°How is Yue¡¯er doing?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s dead!¡± Zhao Ru said coldly.

    ¡°Impossible!¡± roared Chen Zhengqing like an enraged lion.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Zhao Ru snorted coldly and said, ¡°Chen Zhengqing, I won''t waste words with you. Consider yourselves unfortunate for crossing paths with me today! I''ll capture both of you and deliver you to that person from the Qin n. With their backing, my Zhao n will ascend to greater heights."

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice rang out. ¡°Capture my father and me? Trash at the seventh level like you?¡±

    He stared at Zhao Ru with a cold gaze and said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve harmed my father in the past, I¡¯ll take your life today. As for the others, I''ll hunt them down one by one and make them pay for their sins, including that person from the Qin n you mentioned!¡±

    ¡°Such conceit!¡± shouted Zhao Ru with an unusually sharp gaze. ¡°Die, you little bastard!¡±

    Before his voice fell, Zhao Ru had already struck out.

    His cultivation erupted, and a burst of qi stormed out. Behind him, his primeval force transformed into a massive devil with a menacing aura reaching the skies.

    This devil, d in battle armor and wielding a poisonous spear, boasted three heads and six arms¡ªit had a ferocious appearance. Opening its mouth, it released an endless stream of poisonous qi.

    Zhao Ru struck out with a palm. It was as if the huge palm had captured the sky, shaking the heavens.

    Numerous cracks appeared on the ground of the Zhao n mansion, seemingly unable to withstand the pressure from this palm strike.

    Zhao Ru was mighty, even a notch above Lei Tao.

    ¡°Myriad Poison Palm Seal!¡±

    Zhao Ru retracted his palm and struck out with the other. The sky crumbled, and the earth cracked. It seemed like he was transforming the world into a highly toxic realm.

    ¡°Watch out, Xiaofan. The Myriad Poison Cultivation Technique is exceptionally vicious. Even a whiff of the poison qi is enough for it to target your heart. It will make you lose your cultivation and be pus,¡± warned Chen Zhengqing. He used to be close to Zhao Ru and knew the hazardous nature of his cultivation technique.

    When Zhao Ru unleashed his cultivation, clouds of poisonous qi would form that could poison others easily. It was very powerful.

    Weaker individuals nearby unwittingly inhaled the toxic qi, and darkness swiftly appeared on their faces.

    Clearly poisoned, they screamed miserably, foaming at the mouth, and soon sumbed to the poison. The corpses of these victims swiftly decayed, turning into pus, highlighting the power and horror of the poisonous technique.

    Only a trace of the poisonous qi had spread to the onlookers, but even martial artists at the seventh and eighth levels of the Qigong realm were losing their lives to it.

    Facing Zhao Ru''s concentrated attack, Chen Fan found himself in a dangerous situation. The poison could even kill experts at the fifth level of the Yuanfu realm.

    Zhao Ruughed and said, ¡°Sinful bastard, I once killed a Yuanfu realm expert at the eighth level with a palm. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t kill you with my poison. After all, I have to capture you alive and send you to the Qin n.¡±

    No one would have expected that the schrly Zhao Ru practiced such a vicious and terrifying cultivation technique.

    However, facing Zhao Ru¡¯s attack, Chen Fan showed no signs of fear. He said, ¡°A paltry poisonous technique. Nothing but an unorthodox method.¡±

    As he rubbed his hands together, the Heaven Piercing Spear immediately rotated fiercely, creating a whirring sound in the air.

    ¡°Go!¡±

    With a smack of his palm, he shot the Heaven Piercing Spear with a spinning force. It pierced through space, producing a sharp whistling noise.

    The spear''s tip scraped violently against the air. The air ignited, creating ayer of mes around the spear. It collided forcefully with the Myriad Poison Palm Seal, resulting in a resounding boom.

    <i>Boom ka!</i>

    This spear from Chen Fan was incredibly terrifying. Its power was like a torrent pouring down. It easily pierced through the Myriad Poison Palm Seal, reducing it to pitch-ck poisonous qi.

    Simultaneously, the Wings of Rain Dragon spread from his back, generating a fierce hurricane that swept the poisonous qi toward Zhao Ru, Zhao Kongming, and the others and enveloped them.

    Immediately, the Yuanfu realm experts from the six great allied ns fell to the poisonous qi.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    The poisonous qi got to their hearts. One after another, they let out miserable cries, falling to the ground and even corroding its surface.

    ¡°Hurry, Detoxification Pill. Take a Detoxification Pill.¡±

    ¡°Give me a Detoxification Pill. I don¡¯t want to die.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Zhao Kongming and the others had robust cultivation. Although the poisonous qi invaded them, they immediately suppressed it and hurriedly consumed a Detoxification Pill. They expelled the poisonous qi but were severely weakened, theirplexions ghastly pale.

    The poison took the lives of another seven or eight Yuanfu realm experts.

    Since Zhao Ru practiced poisonous techniques, the poisonous qi did not affect him. However, Chen Fan¡¯s spear attack left him in disarray. Looking shocked, he spewed a mouthful of blood.

    Chen Fan ignored Zhao Kongming and the others and rushed toward Zhao Ru.

    ¡°Did you think being at the seventh level makes you invincible? It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t killed one before! You¡¯re not the first¡ªdie!¡±

    Wielding the Heaven Piercing Spear, Chen Fan executed an exceptional strike.

    <i>Boom ka!</i>

    The spear''s power resembled a surging mountain torrent and the galloping of thousands of horses. The space quivered violently, appearing on the verge of copse under its force.

    Zhao Ru''s face reflected horror.

    ¡°What kind of power is this?¡±

    His cultivation was at the peak of the seventh level, just a step away from the eighth level.

    His poisonous technique was iparably powerful, and it had even once killed a newly advanced Yuanfu realm expert at the eighth level.

    Even so, he realized his poisonous technique was ineffective against Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan absorbed the poisonous qi, yet it was like a y ox entering the sea, not even producing any bubbles. [1]

    What was even more terrifying was Chen Fan¡¯s strength.

    A single spear attack left Zhao Ru feeling like the grim reaper had descended. The aura of death shrouded him, making his hands and feet cold.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying spear stabbing at him, Zhao Ru was at a loss for words. He nearly thought he was in a dream.

    Zhao Ru roared furiously, bringing forthyers of palm silhouettes with an earth-shattering momentum, attacking Chen Fan.

    ¡°You¡¯re only at the sixth level. Even if you¡¯ve practiced some incredible cultivation techniques, the difference in our cultivation is too big. Die! Heavenly Fiend Poisonous Palm first style, Soul Catcher Life Stealer!¡±

    However, his attacks were as weak as tofu under Chen Fan''s Heaven Piercing Spear, easily torn apart.

    ¡°Second style, Obliterated Limbs!¡±

    ¡°Third style, Corpse Mountain Blood Sea!¡±

    ¡°Fourth style, Devastating Thousand Army!¡±

    ¡°Fifth style, Descent of the Poison God!¡±

    Zhao Ru revolved his Myriad Poison Cultivation Technique to the limit. Above his head, the silhouette of the poison god emerged, entirely shrouded in a thickyer of poisonous qi, capable of poisoning and extinguishing all life in the world.

    1. y ox entering the sea is an idiom that means to disappear without any hopes of returning. ?

 Chapter 256 - Cruel Reality

    <h4>Chapter 256 - Cruel Reality</h4>

    Like a whirlwind, Zhao Ru unleashed his formidable cultivation, employing his most powerful martial arts. The poisonous qi in heaven and earth swept wildly, rushing toward Chen Fan.

    Standing mid-air, Chen Fan was like a reef, allowing the tides to wash over him for millenniums without moving.

    The terrifying poisonous qi that could kill experts at the fifth level entered Chen Fan through his pores. However, before it could wreak havoc, the Heaven Seizing Furnace absorbed and refined itpletely, leaving no trace behind.

    The poisonous qi could kill others, but it did not affect Chen Fan much.

    Witnessing Chen Fan easily brave the poisonous onught without flinching, not even a hint of corrosion on his clothing, instilled horror in Zhao Ru''s eyes.

    He was well aware of the potency of his own poison. Even when facing an eighth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse, Zhao Ru was not scared because of it.

    However, the poisonous technique that had brought him sess thus far was useless against Chen Fan.

    His strongest move failed to move Chen Fan in the slightest.

    The cold smiles on Zhao Kongming and the others¡¯ faces froze.

    Earlier, Chen Fan¡¯s spear had broken Zhao Ru¡¯s Myriad Poison Palm Seal and swept up a gust of wind, blowing the poisonous qi to them. About seven or eight experts at the first level immediately died at the hands of the poison.

    Those with profound cultivation could quickly suppress the poison. If not for the Detoxification Pills, they could have never expelled the poisonous qi inside them.

    As for those at the second and third levels of the Yuanfu realm, they couldn¡¯t expel all the poison despite consuming Detoxification Pills. Traces of it were left behind, and they had to expel it slowly.

    Therefore, they were now intimately familiar with the dreadfulness of Zhao Ru''s poison technique. They did not want to get even the tiniest bit of it on themselves again. However, Chen Fan was seemingly immune to it.

    ¡°Damn it, I don¡¯t believe this. Poison God¡¯s Banners!¡±

    Zhao Ru sensed a life-and-death crisis. While his poisonous attacks couldn¡¯t do anything to Chen Fan, the same couldn¡¯t be said about Chen Fan¡¯s attacks. Realizing he couldn''t prolong the battle, he decided to unleash his trump card.

    With amanding wave, several banners materialized in front of Zhao Ru. Although not high-grade treasures, each banner bore an embroidered poisonous creature like centipedes, scorpions, spiders, venomous snakes, and more.

    As soon as these banners flew out, the Poison God¡¯s silhouette above Zhao Ru¡¯s head grabbed them.

    With a vigorous shake, the banners transformed into hundreds of ck wisps of qi, weaving into a colossal of poison engulfing Chen Fan.

    Immediately, mournful noises rang out in heaven and earth.

    The entire area became tainted by the poisonous qi.

    Chen Zhengqing and the others retreated miles away frantically, watching the two fighting in the skies above the mansion from far away.

    Shrouded by the poisonous gas, the city lord¡¯s mansion became a disaster zone, iming the lives of those who couldn''t escape in time.

    The poison corroded the surrounding buildings, making them copse. Even the ground was permeated with the poisonous qi, transforming into highly toxic slime.

    As the with hundreds of wisps of poisonous qi rushed over, Chen Fan shook his arm, and the Heaven Piercing Spear tore through everything, tearing the poisonous qi to shreds. They were useless against him.

    Chen Fan strode forth in the air, wielding the Heaven Piercing Spear, forcing his way toward Zhao Ru.

    Zhao Ru turned pale when he saw that even the Poison God¡¯s Banners were ineffective against Chen Fan. The fear in his eyes intensified. He bit the tip of his tongue and sprayed out a mouthful of blood mist.

    The blood mist shook violently in front of him. The Poison God motioned at it, driving the mist into the treasure banners.

    The embroidered poisonous creatures on the banners seemed to gain life. They soared out and began devouring each other in mid-air.

    These poisonous creatures ultimately transformed into a drop of dark red fluid. With a flick of its finger, the Poison God sent this drop of dark red fluid flying toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Poison God¡¯s Tear! See if you can survive this!¡±

    Zhao Ru¡¯s expression was very sinister.

    This move was his strongest trump card.

    Fueled by his blood essence, it was iparably toxic. Even a mere whiff of its aura could cause one¡¯s skin to corrode and turn them into pus. It was a hundred times¡ªno, a thousand times more toxic than the poisonous qi.

    This drop of dark red poisonous fluid flew toward Chen Fan. With a bang, it expanded into a poisonous deluge resembling a sea of blood, unstoppable in its descent.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, acknowledging a hint of threat.

    An electric arc burst out of his eyes, and his aura erupted.

    He kicked off the air, and the sounds of dragon-elephants hissing seemed toe from inside Chen Fan. With a rumble, Chen Fan shot forth like a cannonball.

    ¡°Whatever abilities you have, I¡¯ll break it with one spear!¡±

    As Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice rang out, he shook his arm. The poisonous sea that could kill a seventh-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse was directly torn apart, unable to touch the hem of his clothing.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was icy. After he broke through the sea of poison, the Heaven Piercing Spear continued toward Zhao Ru.

    ¡°No!¡± A stark expression of terror overwhelmed Zhao Ru''s face¡ªhe was about to die.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear quickly grewrger in his eyes. His limbs turned icy cold under the aura of the spear attack. He waspletely drained of strength, rendering him powerless to move. He could only witness the destructive force of the approaching spear.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Like a knife through tofu, the Heaven Piercing Spear pierced the middle of Zhao Ru¡¯s brow.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The force erupted. Zhao Ru¡¯s head exploded, and his soul was annihted. His headless corpse plunged to the ground.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    It kicked off a cloud of dust. The onlookers felt as if someone had pinched their hearts, stunned.

    Zhao Ru, someone at the peak of the seventh level and a great expert from the imperial city, died at Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    From start to end, no matter how Zhao Ru used his cultivation or what attacks he used, he could not shake Chen Fan.

    On the contrary, Chen Fan only used a spear to break through his poison technique and kill Zhao Ru.

    Heaven and earth went silent. Everyone had lost their voices.

    With a fling of his sleeves, Chen Fan used his cultivation to envelop the spreading poisonous qi in the air. Hepressed it into a ball of poison. He looked at the depths of the Zhao n mansion and threw it over.

    The ball of poison exploded, and the poisonous qi quickly stormed out.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Immediately, the Zhao n¡¯s people were shrouded by the poisonous qi and cried miserably. A huge swath of them quickly lost their lives to the poison.

    Zhao Kongming and the others finally returned to their senses, their faces looking ashen.

    ¡°Quickly run!¡±

    Even Zhao Kongming¡¯s greatest trump card, Zhao Ru, had died. After getting weakened in the first round, there was no way they were a match for Chen Fan and the others.

    Zhao Kongming was horrified. Everything he had nned hade crumbling down, destroyed by Chen Fan alone.

    He recalled Chen Fan''s earlier words.

    In front of absolute strength, all schemes and tricks were like paper tigerspletely useless! No matter how many people they had, they were nothing but a group of trash in front of him.

    They had thought Chen Fan was too arrogant and lost sight of reality. But now, Chen Fan had made them see reality for what it was.

    s, reality was this cruel!

 Chapter 257 - Fall of the Six Clans

    <h4>Chapter 257 - Fall of the Six ns</h4>

    The scorching sun resembled a furnace; its rays seemed like molten gold.

    Watermoon City bore witness to a huge change.

    The poption hadn¡¯t expected the City sh Convention¡ªan annual event¡ªto restructure their city.

    The Zhao n coborated with five major ns to form an inescapable trap within the city lord''s mansion. They aimed to eliminate the other five great ns.

    When the plot first came to light, everyone had expected that things wouldn¡¯t end well for the Chen n, the Qian n, and the other ns.

    Unexpectedly, Chen Fan destroyed thebined forces of Zhao Kongming and more than twenty Yuanfu realm experts alone. He actually killed more than ten of them in only ten breaths of time.

    Zhao Kongming was forced to reveal his final ace in the hole: a great expert from the imperial city, Zhao Ru. He was at the peak of the seventh level. Yet, even this expert proved powerless against Chen Fan, sumbing to a single strike.

    With Zhao Ru''s demise, the oue of the Hongmen Banquet was irrevocably sealed.

    The Zhao n''s machinations backfired, and they ended up dragging down all their ally ns, resulting in the annihtion of their lineages.

    The people of Watermoon City felt their hearts quiver as they witnessed renowned Yuanfu realm experts sumbing one after another to the onught of the Chen n, Qian n, and the three other ns. Miserable cries echoed for miles.

    A voice filled with regret resounded.

    ¡°Ah, I shouldn¡¯t have...¡±

    The crowd saw the Wu n¡¯s patriarch, Wu Huasheng, a top-tier expert at thete stage of the fourth level, die at Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    He was the patriarch of a prestigious n that towered over Watermoon City. Yet, he had been ughtered by Chen Fan like he was a chicken. He failed to even put up a fight, so only his cries full of regret rang in the skies of Watermoon City.

    ¡°Zhao Kongming, screw your ancestors! You harmed my Zheng n... You harmed my Zheng n...¡±

    Li Yuanba, a top-ranking expert in Watermoon City, cursed Zhao Kongming vehemently before his demise, wishing he could shred Zhao Kongming to pieces.

    They were truly regretting their actions. If they could turn back time, they would not choose to board Zhao n¡¯s pirate ship.

    They despised Zhao Kongming for leading them into this dangerous situation. If not for him, they wouldn''t be facing death, and their ns wouldn''t be on the brink of annihtion.

    However, there was no medicine for regret in this world, and time could not possibly be turned back.

    A look of sorrow appeared on Zhao Kongming¡¯s pale face.

    Three days ago, the six patriarchs had gathered in the Zhao n mansion to discuss matters and concocted this n. They had felt a great sense of grandeur due to their lofty aspirations.

    But now, Chen Fan banished them into hell with his spear¡ªa boundless hell.

    Regret!

    Intense remorse engulfed Zhao Kongming.

    If he had known Chen Fan was so monstrously strong, he would not have set such a scheme that harmed his n and jeopardized his own life.

    Zhao Kongming sumbed to madness, consumed by regret.

    ¡°Damn it, even if I am to die, I will drag you down with me!¡±

    His primeval vessel appeared above his head, erupting with a devastating aura. Cracks started forming on his primeval vessel.

    He would detonate his primeval vessel to bring Chen Fan and the others down with him.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    However, a sharp, mournful whistling noise rang out just as this destructive aura spread. The Heaven Piercing Spear pierced Zhao Kongming and carried him flying toward the Zhao n mansion.

    <i>Boom! Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying explosion rang out as Zhao Kongming self-detonated.

    A mushroom cloud rose, and a terrifying windstorm whistled. Shockwaves spread out, and the entire Watermoon City trembled violently as if there was an earthquake.

    More than half of the colossal Zhao n mansion, spanning over ten square miles, crumbled under the impact of the self-detonation. Countless Zhao n members vanished without a trace, their fates sealed in the destruction.

    ¡°We surrender, we surrender. I beg you, please show some mercy!¡±

    ¡°Spare our lives. We, the culprits, are willing to end ourselves!¡±

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing, Chen Fan, we¡¯re willing to end ourselves. We only ask for you to spare the women and children of our ns. They are innocent...¡±

    The two patriarchs, Sun Tianqi and Wang Daoyuan, were inplete despair.

    They directly kneeled on the ground and kowtowed, banging their heads loudly. Their faces were covered in blood, but they ignored itpletely, begging non-stop.

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    The members of the two ns wept bitterly, watching this scene unfold.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s expression was indifferent. His icy voice rang out.

    ¡°Fine, end yourselves. I, Chen Zhengqing, am not someone who kills indiscriminately. I will leave your n¡¯s bloodline intact!¡±

    The six allied ns¡¯ people numbered close to a hundred thousand. More than half of them were either old, women, or children. These people posed no threat, were weak, and innocent. Chen Zhengqing didn¡¯t want a massacre.

    ¡°Alright. I hope you keep your word and keep my Sun n¡¯s bloodline intact. I¡¯ll end my life now!¡±

    Sun n¡¯s patriarch, Sun Tianqi, revealed a miserable smile. Then, he struck his head with a palm strike, killing himself.

    ¡°I hope you¡¯ll keep your word!¡± Wang n¡¯s patriarch, Wang Daoyuan, did the same.

    The elders and the executives of the six great ns ended their lives one after another, hoping Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing, and the others would leave their family bloodline intact and not massacre the innocent.

    As for Qian Tongtian, Zhang Huaiyuan, and the others, they naturally had nothing to say about this.

    After all, their five great ns only managed to escape this cmity, thanks to Chen Fan.

    Chen Zhengqing had given his word, so they didn¡¯t want to anger him by killing the innocents from the enemy ns.

    ¡°Watch him rise to the top and fall to the ground. That¡¯s how cruel reality is.¡±

    ¡°A single wrong move and everything is lost. You end up with your n eradicated and your head rolling on the ground.¡±

    ¡°Haaa, from now on, Watermoon City will belong to those surnamed Chen.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n produced a true dragon. Who can stop them? Who could have thought that the Chen n would be the city''s ruler after establishing its foothold only about half a year ago? I¡¯m afraid even the Qian n, Zhang n, and the other ns can do nothing but submit to them.

    ¡°Today is like a dream...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people looked at the scene in front of the city lord''s mansion withplicated expressions.

    When the Zhao n and the allied ns had revealed their scheme, none had expected it to end like this.

    Chen Fanpletely defeated the Zhao n and its allied ns!

    All schemes and tricks were useless in front of strength!

 Chapter 258 - Past Matters

    <h4>Chapter 258 - Past Matters</h4>

    The upheaval in Watermoon City calmed down.

    Many people witnessed the huge, tragic battle that had greatly shifted the power structure of Watermoon City.

    The Zhao, the Zheng, the Li, the Sun, the Wang, and the Wu ns¡ªprestigious ns that had ruled over Watermoon City unwaveringly for hundreds of years¡ªhad be history in a single day, scattering to the wind.

    Meanwhile, the Chen n had taken over the Zhao n¡¯s ce, bing the new city lord n of Watermoon City.

    No one objected!

    No one dared to object!

    The Chen n ascended to the position of Watermoon City¡¯s city lord n by relying on iron-blooded methods.

    Chen Fan, of the Chen n, was a figure akin to a god or a devil, wielding invincible might.

    Many days had passed, but the poption¡¯s hearts still skipped a beat, and their souls trembled when they recalled that day. Chen Fan had killed Yuanfu realm experts as if trampling on ants.

    Watermoon Restaurant, thergest and most luxurious restaurant in Watermoon City, was full of customers daily.

    ¡°Peace has returned to Watermoon City, but who could have imagined that six prestigious ns would be history after the huge earthquake from five days ago? Also, countless Yuanfu realm experts were either killed, or they chose to end their lives.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Thinking back, it feels like it was just yesterday when that battle urred. It was too scary. Yuanfu realm experts are like heavenly figures to people like us, but they¡¯re as worthless as ants in front of that person from the Chen n, killing them as he pleases.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n has produced a true dragon. A true dragon soars into the clouds. I¡¯m afraid this tiny little Watermoon City won¡¯t be able to amodate such a huge figure.¡±

    ¡°Watermoon City remained rtively unchanged for hundreds of years, but suddenly, it¡¯s like the sky has copsed.¡±

    ¡°Say, that great figure Zhao Kongming had invited from the imperial city was also surnamed Zhao. Don¡¯t you think...¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been to the imperial city before and have heard of the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n! Although they aren¡¯t a first-rate prestigious n, they can be considered second- or third-rate. They have countless Yuanfu realm experts in their ns, and I heard that there are even Core Formation realm powerhouses in the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n.¡±

    ¡°Hiss... Core Formation realm! They are top experts even within the entire Great Chu Empire, legendary figures who can destroy mountains with a wave of their hand and part the sea with a fling of their sleeves!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Previously, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Duan Jingtian and the Divine Light Sect¡¯s Zhong Ya agreed to fight on Tianmen Mountain, and I was also there. Although the battle was almost over when I got there, I witnessed the horrifying strength of Core Formation realm powerhouses.¡±

    ¡°Ah? You went to watch the battle of Tianmen Mountain? Quickly tell us what you saw!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen n mansion:

    Although it had been five days since the huge battle, the Chen n was still as busy. People came and went, shouting about.

    The six allied ns wererge, prestigious ns with hundreds or even a thousand years of heritage in Watermoon City. Their assets and fortunes were vast. The Chen n couldn''t absorb them in mere days.

    Of course, the Chen n did not take over all the six ns¡¯ wealth, either.

    They threw the Sun, the Wang, and the Wu ns¡¯ businesses in the Qian n and the other ns¡¯ way.

    The fortunes of the Zhao, Zheng, and Li ns now rested in the hands of the Chen n. They only allocated the businesses managed by these three ns to the Qian n and others.

    Even though they threw out three fat pieces of meat, the Chen n would still be busy digesting the Zhao, Zheng, and Li ns¡¯ businesses for some time.

    Even the overseer of Xuanyang City, Chen Tianxiong, came to Watermoon City to help.

    Zhao Kongming had sent some experts to Xuanyang City to wipe out the Chen n, but Chen Tianxiong killed them using the Mountain River Stars Grand Array.

    Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and the others were incredibly busy with n matters. Meanwhile, the hottest topic of Watermoon City these days, Chen Fan, was hiding in a small courtyard cultivating peacefully.

    Another half a month passed. The Chen n was done with the initial stages of absorbing the businesses of the Zhao, Zheng, and Li ns.

    Chen Zhengqing finally got a little bit of free time.

    Three figures stood inside the main hall: Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan looked at Chen Zhengqing with a stern expression.

    ¡°Father, I¡¯ve already waited for eighteen years!¡± Chen Fan said in a low voice.

    Chen Tianxiong also looked at Chen Zhengqing and said, ¡°Zhengqing, I want to know as well. What exactly happened back then?¡±

    ¡°Eighteen years ago, you returned to the n heavily injured with Xiaofan, who was still in his infancy. I asked you, but you kept silent. Now, it¡¯s time toe clean.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing was silent, his gazeplicated.

    Chen Fan urged with a heavier tone.

    ¡°Father!¡±

    After remaining silent for nearly fifteen minutes, Chen Zhengqing slowly raised his head. A trace of helplessness shed in his eyes.

    ¡°Haaa.¡± Chen Zhengqing looked closely at Chen Fan¡¯s face. His gaze became iparably gentle. He sighed and said, ¡°Xiaofan, I can tell you what happened back then, but you must promise me one thing: You won¡¯t act recklessly after.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°I promise!¡±

    ¡°Alright, then.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing sighed softly again and said, ¡°Eighteen years ago, I went to the imperial city to train. There, I got acquainted with Zhao Ru¡¯s group. At that time, I was at the third level. While it doesn¡¯t count for much in the imperial city, I was one of the best among the younger generation.

    ¡°Back then, I was all buddy-buddy with Zhao Ru and the descendants of various prestigious ns; I was having the time of my life. I soon met your mother, Nangong Yue. She¡¯s the pearl of the Nangong n¡¯s Moon Bloodline and the number one beauty of the imperial city. Countless people admired her.

    ¡°The Nangong n hosted the Bloodlines Martial Meet at that time. The juniors of the three main bloodlines could invite others to assist in the fights. I had already gained a little bit of fame in the imperial city by then, and I agreed to support the Moon Bloodline after receiving an invitation from your mother.

    ¡°With time, our interactions became more frequent, and we fell in love. We shared the intimacy between husband and wife. While my martial talent was decent, I am from a small city like Xuanyang City. With no background or strength, the Nangong n didn¡¯t think highly of me.

    "Furthermore, the Nangong n had nned for your mother to marry into the Qin n, allying through matrimony. However, when they discovered our rtionship, the Nangong n''s elders were furious and forcibly concealed the matter.

    ¡°s, no wall in this worldpletely blocks out the wind. Thepetition between the Sun, Moon, and Star Bloodlines of the Nangong n was fierce, so the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline uncovered this matter and let it spread. [1]

    ¡°Following this revtion, the situation escted. Although your mother was acknowledged as the Qin n''s daughter-inw, I had messed up their ns. In their anger, they issued an order to hunt me down.

    ¡°My so-called brothers, seeking favor with the Qin n, immediately pursued me. With your mother''s protection, I barely escaped the imperial city with you, just a newborn. However, I couldn¡¯t save my primeval vessel from getting damaged.

    ¡°Afterward, I went into hiding for a period before returning to Xuanyang City. Unfortunately, I have no knowledge of your mother''s fate, whether she is alive or not..."

    1. An old saying that means if you did something, it will eventually be found out. Two sayings rted to information are that ¡®the walls have ears¡¯ and someone ¡®leaking the sound of wind.¡¯ The first is said to warn others that it is not safe to speak because others might be listening, and the second refers to others leaking information. ?

 Chapter 259 - Setting Off for the Imperial City

    <h4>Chapter 259 - Setting Off for the Imperial City</h4>

    Chen Zhengqing spent a full two hours recounting the events of the past.

    After hearing the entire story, Chen Fan finally gained rity on some events.

    Despite being from a small Grade-3 city like Xuanyang City, his father¡¯s extraordinary talent allowed him to advance to the Yuanfu realm at sixteen, reaching the third level by eighteen.

    While not matching Chen Fan''s achievements, this contrast stemmed from Chen Fan obtaining a heavenly opportunity.

    Without it, Chen Fan''s dantian would still be closed, keeping him at the first level of the Qigong realm.

    This highlighted Chen Zhengqing¡¯s remarkable talent.

    Motivated by his abilities, Chen Zhengqing had left home to explore the world and ventured to the imperial city. He stood out brilliantly and formed deep connections with Zhao Ru and other elite descendants; they even referred to one another as brothers.

    During this time, he encountered Nangong Yue, Chen Fan''s mother, renowned as the number one beauty of the imperial city and the jewel of the Nangong n.

    Despite their mutual admiration and love, the vast gap in their social statuses presented numerous challenges.

    Their rtionship spoiled the name of the prestigious Qin n, leading them to issue a kill order against Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s ¡°brothers¡± turned hostile, pursuing him relentlessly to gain favor with the Qin n.

    Ultimately, he managed to escape, taking the newborn Chen Fan with him under the protection of Nangong Yue. However, the ordeal damaged his primal vessel, regressing his cultivation to the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    ¡°Qin n...¡±

    Chen Fan clenched his fists tightly, and an icy light shed in his eyes.

    The Qin n had arranged marriage with the Nangong n. The groom, Qin Wudi, was the top talent of the imperial city''s younger generation, while the bride was Nangong Yue, the city''s number one beauty.

    Externally, their union seemed ideal¡ªa handsome, talented youth paired with an exceptionally beautiful woman. They would simply be a match made in heaven if the two were to get together.

    However, Chen Zhengqing and Nangong Yue harbored a private love affair, their connection maturing into the sacred bond of married partners.

    The revtion caused a city-wide uproar.

    No one could have imagined that the imperial city¡¯s number one beauty would reject the city¡¯s number one talent and have an affair with a country bumpkin instead, even bearing a child.

    This Qin n became theughingstock of the imperial city, and their reputation was damaged.

    This scandal led to Qin Wudi issuing a kill order against Chen Zhengqing, humiliated by the rejection.

    The Nangong n¡¯s Sun and Star bloodlines ruthlessly seized this opportunity to suppress the Moon Bloodline. Ignoring their blood ties, they exposed Nangong Yue and Chen Zhengqing¡¯s rtionship, even though it could endanger Nangong Yue and her child.

    Chen Fan¡¯s hatred toward the Qin n was now no less than the hate he bore against Duan Jingtian.

    Chen Zhengqing saw the coldness in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes and hurriedly said, ¡°Xiaofan, you must not act recklessly.¡±

    He feared that, driven by anger, Chen Fan might recklessly seek vengeance against the Qin n¡ªan act akin to courting death.

    The imperial city¡¯s Qin n was the undisputed number one n, with a heritage spanning thousands of years. Their n was powerful, and they had numerous Core Formation realm powerhouses.

    Although Chen Fan wasn¡¯t considered weak, it did not mean much in front of a massive entity like the Qin n.

    ¡°Suuu!¡± Chen Fan took a deep breath and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Father. I''m not foolish enough to seek my death. When my strength bes sufficient, I will certainly make the Qin n answer for their past actions and avenge you!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s good that you understand. If you had let anger take control, I would have felt ashamed to face your mother,¡± Chen Zhengqing said.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes and said, ¡°Father, my mother...¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s probably still alive.¡± Chen Zhengqing¡¯s eyes flickered. However, he didn¡¯t sound confident. ¡°Yue¡¯er is the pearl of the Nangong n. She¡¯s exceptionally beautiful, and her martial talent is also extraordinary.¡±

    ¡°Although the Nangong n would punish her for her mistakes, it wouldn¡¯t be to the extent of killing her. Zhao Ru only said that to upset me. No need to put it to heart.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and did not speak any further.

    He now knew more about his mother. He should be able to find out more when he goes to the imperial city.

    ¡°Zhengqing, I failed both you and Xiaoyue,¡± Chen Tianxiong said.

    If the Chen n were strong enough to rival the imperial city¡¯s Qin n, Chen Zhengqing wouldn¡¯t have had to experience all that.

    Chen Zhengqing shook his head and said, ¡°What nonsense are you talking about, Father.¡±

    Chen Fan also chimed in, ¡°Grandfather, Father, rest assured. A day wille when our family is reunited. I¡¯ll make those who bullied our family pay for their sins!¡±

    ¡°Good! Xiaofan, your mother would be delighted to know how capable you''ve be.¡± Chen Zhengqing patted Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder, looking proud.

    He was proud of his son.

    <i>Yue¡¯er, do you know? This is our son. He¡¯s all grown up now...</i> A devastatingly beautiful face appeared in Chen Zhengqing¡¯s heart. An intense longing showed in the depths of his eyes. [1]

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Father, Grandfather, now that the n is on track, I n to visit the imperial city.

    Chen Zhengqing was shocked, assuming Chen Fan wanted to seek revenge. He hurriedly said, ¡°Xiaofan, you...¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking, Father. I''m going for some exploration. I won¡¯t do anything stupid. Moreover, I can¡¯t be stronger quickly by staying in the n or returning to the sect. I must keep venturing to train myself and increase my strength.

    ¡°Furthermore, since Zhao Kongming could invite Zhao Ru here, the Watermoon City¡¯s Zhao n and the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n are likely rted. Perhaps the Zhao n has already learned about Zhao Ru¡¯s death and is searching for clues. It wouldn¡¯t be difficult for them to trace it back to our Chen n.

    ¡°Our Chen n still isn¡¯t strong enough. If the Zhao nes to investigate, the Qin n will also know about it. I must go to the imperial city to disrupt the Zhao n¡¯s investigation, preventing them from linking it to our Chen n.

    ¡°As you said, the Zhao n, though prominent, is notparable to the Qin n. They¡¯re only a second or third-rate n. Perhaps the Zhao n has Core Formation realm powerhouses overseeing them, but I don¡¯t think their cultivation would be too high.

    ¡°Although I am still not a match for a Core Formation realm powerhouse, it¡¯s also impossible for ordinary Core Formation realm powerhouses to kill me.

    ¡°So, you and Grandfather don¡¯t have to worry. I won¡¯t act recklessly in the imperial city. In the future, I will bring Mother back and reunite our family.¡±

    He still had the mask from the Lon Ancient Imperial City¡¯s maze. It could conceal his aura, providing a secure means to interfere with the Zhao n''s surveince without detection. It offered both convenience and safety.

    Chen Zhengqing looked at Chen Fan for a while before he said, ¡°Alright, but Xiaofan, you must promise me that you won¡¯t act recklessly there. You must endure no matter what you encounter. You understand?¡±

    1. Devastating because of a Chinese idiom that says a woman is so beautiful she could cause the downfall of a city or state. ?

 Chapter 260 - Chu Xuanâ€™er

    <h4>Chapter 260 - Chu Xuan¡¯er</h4>

    ¡°Imperial city, here Ie!¡±

    On the main path outside Watermoon City, Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing, and Chen Tianxiong stood side by side.

    After hearing Chen Fan¡¯s reasoning and promise, Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong did not try too hard to stop him.

    They only urged Chen Fan to keep his temper in check when in the imperial city and not to act recklessly. Matters regarding their revenge could wait.

    Chen Fan looked at Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong and said, ¡°Alright, Father, Grandfather, I should set off now.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing nodded and said, ¡°Alright, Xiaofan. Humans are unpredictable. They can be treacherous. You need to be more careful in the imperial city.¡±

    He had once gone to the imperial city, filled with determination. He befriended Zhao Ru and others, treating them as brothers with sincerity. Unaware of their true nature, he had to pay the price: they damaged his primeval vessel.

    ¡°I will.¡± Chen Fan nodded. Without further dy, he ascended into the sea of clouds, tearing it open and disappearing in the blink of an eye.

    Chen Zhengqing silently watched as Chen Fan disappeared from his line of sight.

    Chen Tianxiong patted Chen Zhengqing¡¯s shoulder and smiled. ¡°Rest assured, Zhengqing. Xiaofan has grown up. He knows what he should and shouldn¡¯t do. Believe in him.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing retracted his gaze. A sharp light blossomed in his eyes, and he said, ¡°Father, I¡¯ll have to trouble you with the n matters from now on. My primeval vessel is now fully healed. I want to dedicate myself to cultivation. Although Xiaofan is improving rapidly, I wish to settle past matters with my own two hands.¡±

    Chen Tianxiong looked at Chen Zhengqing. A brief momentter, he nodded heavily and said, ¡°Alright!¡±

    ......

    Chen Fan unfurled his Wings of Rain Dragon and flew with remarkable speed, soon leaving Watermoon City behind.

    He kept flying east and saw diversendscapes along the way.

    As he approached the imperial city, the cities he traversed grew in size and prosperity. Some of them were even ten times the size of Watermoon City, and there were more and more experts around.

    Sometimes, Chen Fan could even sense the breathing of many experts. Their qi reached the clouds.

    He did not fly all the way. He captured a Demon Horse and sped across the earth at lightning speed. Demon Horses were much faster than Golden Horned Horses.

    However, he asionally encountered dangerous terrains and had to fly across them. Only during those times would he use the Wings of Rain Dragon.

    In thesends beyond, experts were as abundant as clouds, a contrast to the more secluded Watermoon City.

    Although he was powerful now, Chen Fan understood that there would always be someone better than him. It would be very troublesome if some great expert discovered him.

    His current strength wasn¡¯t enough for him to act as he pleased in the entire Great Chu Empire.

    Chen Fan did not feel lonely during his travels. He relished the scenic beauty and histordmarks, finding sce in the rity of his thoughts.

    As soon as dawn broke, he stood up in an inn in Tight Might City. He left the rent for the room behind and rushed out, shooting into the sky like lightning and disappearing in the blink of an eye.

    ......

    Cloudsun Town, the closest town to the imperial city, housed over a thousand households in rtive tranquility until today, when its peace was violently shattered.

    A menacing gang of bandits invaded the small town, ruthlessly killing residents and plunging the entire ce into chaos.

    This group of bandits came from the Wolf Head Mountain a hundred miles out. They were powerful, and they numbered around eight hundred. Their leader was a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert, upying and ruling over the mountain as king and causing trouble everywhere.

    The leader of the bandits, Scarface, charged through the street on a Golden Horned Horse. Along the way, he killed and decapitated no fewer than forty to fifty people.

    Suddenly, he caught sight of a seventeen- or eighteen-year-old woman. Heughed teasingly and grabbed the young woman.

    ¡°Haha,e here, little beauty.¡±

    With a ripping sound, he tore open the young woman¡¯s dress. He began humiliating her in front of countless people.

    ¡°Hahahaha, awesome!¡±

    ¡°Damn, I¡¯ve wanted to raid Cloudsun Town for a long time. The women of this town are all so full of life and healthy-looking.¡±

    ¡°Haha, brothers, kill all the men, round the women up, and bring them back to Wolf Head Mountain to bear our little rascals.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The group of bandits was like the autumn wind, sweeping the fallen leaves everywhere as theymitted all kinds of evil wantonly in Cloudsun Townmitting arson, murder, piging, and kidnapping without a shred of remorse.

    Cloudsun Town transformed into a nightmarish hell, echoing with weeping, wailing, screams, and desperate pleas.

    In the midst of the bandits'' rampant chaos, a group suddenly entered Cloudsun Town on horseback, exuding amanding presence.

    Leading the group was a striking young woman, approximately sixteen or seventeen years old, adorned in tight-fitting purple attire thatplemented her extraordinary beauty and heroic demeanor.

    To her left and right were two handsome young men with extraordinary temperament.

    A group of guards followed behind the three.

    Obviously, the group¡¯s identities were not simple.

    The young woman in tight-fitting purple clothing saw the shocking scene and was immediately enraged. She raised her long, shapely eyebrows and berated Scarface and the other bandits.

    ¡°Hey! You damned beasts, how dare you stir trouble here. Today, I, Chu Xuan¡¯er, shall put an end to your atrocities and restore peace to this ce!"

    Scarface looked at Chu Xuan¡¯er, and his gaze lit up.

    ¡°Huh, where did this littledye from? You¡¯ve got a good face on you. Good, very good. My Wolf Head Mountain is still in need of a chieftess. You shall be the one."

    His attraction was solely based on Chu Xuan¡¯er''s beauty.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°Damn it, you, yes, you, the one with a scar on your face. You¡¯re so ugly, yet you dare toe out and scare people with that face. You even dared to insult Commandery Princess Xuan¡¯er. That¡¯s a crime deserving of death! I¡¯ll give you a choice right now. Kneel and kowtow a hundred times, and I¡¯ll give you a quick death!¡± [1]

    The two young men with Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately rebuked.

    Next to Scarface, a man who seemed to be an inept advisor whispered, ¡°Chief, that chick seems to be amandery princess or something.¡±

    <i>Smack!</i>

    Scarface smacked this person¡¯s head and chided, ¡°Who cares if she¡¯s amandery princess or an imperial princess? Since I took a liking to her, she¡¯s mine. This chick looks like she has soft skin and tender flesh. I bet she''s delightful in bed."

    ¡°Yes, yes, you¡¯re right, Chief!¡±

    On the left of Chu Xuan¡¯er was a youth fanning himself with a paper fan. He grew furious and turned to a gray-robed elder behind him.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die, ugly freak, peasant. How dare you spout filth. You cannot be spared. Go, Uncle Fu, take down this savage. I want you to break his limbs and chop them off, turning him into a human stick!¡±

    ¡°Yes, Young Master!¡±

    The gray-robed elder nodded. He immediately leaped forth, unleashing his powerful fourth-level aura.

    He flew across the air like a roc spreading its wings. Then, he threw a palm strike at Scarface, shaking the space.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    A fierce light immediately shone in Scarface¡¯s eyes.

    His aura spread out. The Golden Horned Horse under him burst like a watermelon from the shock as he rose into the air. His fingers curled into a w, shing at Uncle Fu.

    1. ording to the Ming dynasty¡¯s nobility system, Commandery Princess (¿¤Ö÷) refers to the daughter of a crown prince or first-rank prince. First-rank princes refers to the sons of the emperor except the crown prince. Meanwhile, Imperial Princess (¹«Ö÷) refers to daughters, sisters, and paternal aunts of emperors. ?

 Chapter 261 - Lending a Helping Hand

    <h4>Chapter 261 - Lending a Helping Hand</h4>

    As soon as Scarface struck, his fingers became indestructible like an eagle¡¯s w, tearing through the air and producing a sharp noise.

    <i>Ch!</i>

    ¡°Northern Goshawk Thirteen ws!¡±

    He unleashed the attack with both hands, channeling primal energy into formidable eagle-like talons that darted menacingly toward Uncle Fu.

    ¡°Heavenly Tablet Hands!¡±

    Facing Scarface¡¯s attack, Uncle Fu¡¯s indifferent expression suddenly changed.

    He formed a seal with both hands, and his primeval force condensed into a thirty-foot-tall stone tablet. Floating in the air, it crashed toward the eagle w.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The terrifying sharp ws fell onto the heavenly tablets. Banging noises rang out repeatedly. The sound of something cracking rang out; soon, the ws broke Uncle Fu¡¯s tablet.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Following a dull noise, the thirty-footrge heavenly tablet shattered and exploded mid-air. The shattered pieces flew out in all directions with great force.

    Scarface¡¯s figure blurred, and he closed in on Uncle Fu with a savage smile. He executed the Northern Goshawk Thirteen ws again.

    ¡°Die, old man!¡±

    <i>Whoosh.</i>

    His qi surged, and ethereal w-like shapes materialized in the air, enveloping Uncle Fu. A look of terror crossed his face as he sensed a sharp pain on his skin.

    Uncle Fu had assumed that Scarface and his gang were simple bandits. Even though Scarface was also at the fourth level, his foundation and strength should not be a match for Uncle Fu¡¯s.

    However, in the heat of their exchange, Uncle Fu swiftly realized his miscalction¡ªhe was no match for Scarface.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Following a miserable cry, the ws easily prated Uncle Fu¡¯s protective primeval force. The sharp ws tore him to shreds, and fresh blood spattered everywhere.

    The expressions of Chu Xuan¡¯er, the youth with the paper fan, and the others became pale.

    Uncle Fu, the strongest among them, had sumbed effortlessly to Scarface¡ªa horrifying realization.

    The teeth of the youth with the paper fan ttered with fear. Still, he said, ¡°You... How dare you kill Uncle Fu!¡±

    Scarfaceughed savagely and said, ¡°Pretty boy, you said you wanted to break my limbs, didn¡¯t you?¡±

    The youth¡¯s pupils immediately shrank violently; his earlier bravado was solely because Uncle Fu was with him.

    Scarface did not give the youth a chance to speak. Scarface moved, creating a gust of wind as he swiftly appeared in front of the youth. He promptly grabbed the youth''s neck.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Horror took hold of the youth¡¯s face. He wanted to unleash his cultivation, but Scarface did not give him an opportunity. He lifted the youth off the ground, clutching his neck.

    The youth with the paper fan was at the third level, so he had decent cultivation. He was born in a prestigious n but was a hedonistic child. He had raised his cultivation relying solely on elixirs, making it worthless.

    Scarface had used a single hand to grab the youth¡¯s neck and make him dangle in the air. The youth¡¯s eyes were bulging, and his speech was incoherent.

    ¡°You... you...¡±

    ¡°Y-you, what?! Speak clearly!¡±

    Scarface grinned, revealing two rows of white teeth. Then, he waved his free arm, and one of the youth¡¯s arms went flying.

    ¡°You wanted to break this granddaddy¡¯s limbs, huh, pretty boy? I¡¯ll break yours first!¡±

    The brutal spectacle left Chu Xuan¡¯er and the other white-clothed youth horrified, their faces drained of color.

    ¡°Guard us! Guard us!¡± The white-clothed youth hurriedly roared.

    Their group of guards rushed in, surrounding him and Chu Xuan¡¯er, yet even they trembled at the sight of Scarface.

    ¡°Save... save me...¡±

    With one arm gone, the paper fan youth pleaded with Chu Xuan¡¯er and the others. The agony prated deep into his soul, pushing him to contemte biting his tongue to escape the torment.

    Children born into privilege like them had never experienced such pain.

    ¡°Save you? They can¡¯t even protect themselves, and you¡¯re asking them to save you?¡± Scarface taunted,ughing. His arm moved again, and one of the youth¡¯s legs went flying, fresh blood spattering. It was a scene of unparalleled misery.

    ¡°Ah... ugh...¡±

    With Scarface''s grip on his neck, the youth struggled to breathe. Despite the excruciating pain and bulging veins on his forehead, he couldn''t even muster a scream.

    ¡°You... Do you know who we are? She¡¯s themandery princess of the Calm Sun, a royal family member! I am a descendant of the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n, and he is a descendant of the imperial city¡¯s Lin n. How dare you!¡± yelled Zhao Yuan, the white-clothed youth, with a pale face.

    ¡°Oh ho ho. I¡¯m so scared,¡± mocked Scarface, feigning terror. The other leg of the youth with the paper fan flew away.

    ¡°You...¡± Zhao Yuan''s face turned ghostly pale from fear, nearly losing control of his bowels. He had even used his n¡¯s name, but Scarface still seemed unfazed.

    ¡°Haha, we¡¯re so scared...¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. He is the young master from the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n. I¡¯m so scared I could die.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The group of bandits alsoughed exaggeratedly.

    Scarface moved again, ripping apart the youth¡¯sst remaining limb. He said coldly, ¡°I don¡¯t give a damn if you¡¯re a princess or whatnot. Who will know if I killed you people? Little chick, just be good and prepare to be my chieftress. Hahahaha.¡±

    ¡°Run, Young Miss!¡± pleaded an old woman behind Chu Xuan¡¯er, looking anxious.

    She, too, was at the fourth level,parable in strength to Uncle Fu but no match for Scarface.

    Her Young Miss¡¯ status was extraordinary. She was the daughter of the Calm Sun Marquis, a member of the royal family¡ªa true princess.

    With this kind of status, she could do as she liked, even in the imperial city.

    s, her status as a princess could have let her threaten others, but it was useless against these murderous savages.

    ¡°Thinking of running? A woman I¡¯ve taken a fancy to wants to run? Brothers, kill them! Pay attention not to hurt my woman, understand?¡±

    Scarface waved his hand. Immediately, the eight hundred bandits behind him charged toward Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s group like a flood.

    ¡°Quickly run, Young Miss! This old woman will stop him!¡± roared Granny Rong, Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s protector, and unleashed her cultivation. She would fight Scarface alone to buy some time for Chu Xuan¡¯er to escape.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er''s eyes turned red as she watched Granny Rong sacrifice herself.

    ¡°Granny!¡±

    ¡°Go, Xuan¡¯er, or we¡¯ll all die here. When we escape from here and return to the n, I¡¯ll surely bring my n¡¯s experts to wipe them out!¡± Zhao Yuan said. Without a second thought, he abandoned Chu Xuan¡¯er and fled.

    Zhao Yuan and the youth with the paper fan were Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s suitors; in the face of a life-or-death crisis, even she wasn''t the top priority.

    Amid the chaos, someone rode on a Demon Horse outside Cloudsun Town. "Hmm, there¡¯s a small town ahead. It¡¯s perfect to take a break and have a drink."

    Chen Fan, weary from travel, spotted Cloudsun Town and nned to rest there. As he approached, he noticed Zhao Yuan running toward him in sheer terror.

    He saw the situation inside Cloudsun Town, and a fierce killing intent immediately surged from him.

    Seeing Zhao Yuan fleeing while Granny Rong faced Scarface selflessly, Chu Xuan¡¯er recognized the extreme danger. If she stayed, the sacrifices of Granny Rong and others would be in vain.

    Immediately, she wiped away her tears and turned to flee.

    Suddenly, a fierce sword light whistled over from outside the town, exploding amid the bandits.

    Dozens, if not a hundred, of Qigong realm bandits died. Fresh blood shot out like arrows, and dismembered limbs flew everywhere.

    Scarface had smashed the youth¡¯s head with a p and was about to kill Granny Rong when this streak of sword light surprised him. He stopped, looked around with a fierce gaze, and said coldly, ¡°Who is it? Show yourself!¡±

 Chapter 262 - Slaying Scarface

    <h4>Chapter 262 - ying Scarface</h4>

    ¡°Who is it? Show yourself!¡±

    Both Chu Xuan¡¯er and Scarface¡¯s groups were shocked at the sudden turn of events.

    Just as Scarface¡¯s voice fell, Chen Fan flew down.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°Brat, who are you? How dare you kill my brothers. Are you looking to die?¡±

    Scarface¡¯s pupils shrank violently at the sight of Chen Fan.

    However, when he sensed Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, the fourth level of the Yuanfu realm, he secretly sighed a breath of relief.

    That streak of sword light had killed dozens of his brothers in a sh, so Scarface had feared that an expert hade, causing his heart to tighten. Aware of Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation now, he acted fiercely.

    Granny Rong also sensed Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation and immediately shouted, ¡°Young Sir, this man is extremely evil. Everyone abhors this bandit; he kills without batting an eyelid. Please give me a helping hand. Let¡¯s join forces and kill this savage and bring peace to this ce. Our Calm Sun Marquis mansion will be eternally grateful.¡±

    Scarface¡¯s eyes flickered. He suddenly made a move, jumping toward Granny Rong. He struck out viciously and in a tricky manner, wanting to kill her in one strike.

    Although Chen Fan was also at the fourth level, that streak of sword light had been too powerful. Scarface quickly concluded that Chen Fan was a sword cultivator.

    Sword cultivators were known for their high offensive ability and were some of the strongest among martial artists within the same cultivation realm.

    If Granny Rong were to join forces with Chen Fan to attack him, he would slip into a huge crisis.

    Therefore, he decided to kill Granny Rong with one move. If it were Chen Fan alone, Scarface wouldn¡¯t be afraid to engage in a one-on-one fight.

    However, Chen Fan reacted immediately, swinging the Autumn y with precision. A swift streak of sword light tore through the air, appearing in front of Scarface instantly.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± The attack forced Scarface to stop and unleash his cultivation to counter the sword light with a palm strike.

    Meanwhile, Granny Rong hurriedly retreated, putting some distance between them. Without Chen Fan''s intervention, she would have likely fallen victim to Scarface''s deadly attack.

    ¡°You go deal with the others. Leave this scar-faced man to me,¡± Chen Fan dered, stepping forward. His cultivation surged as he gracefully wielded his sword, unleashing sharp streaks of sword light that surrounded Scarface.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t want to expose his true strength; otherwise, he could have killed Scarface with a finger flick.

    Granny Rong was slightly taken aback.

    She knew Scarface was terrifyingly strong, yet this youth wanted to take him on alone. She was worried Chen Fan was no match for him.

    However, her worries quickly dissipated.

    The powerful sword technique Chen Fan executed sent streaks of sword light flying, sealing the area. They were iparably sharp and shed forcefully, suppressing Scarface. Granny Rong¡¯s worries were lifted, and she shifted her gaze to the bandits.

    Though numerous, their strength varied, with the strongest among them merely at the third level of the Yuanfu realm. Their collective threat did not intimidate her.

    She quickly charged into them, wreaking havoc like she was overturning the seas. Miserable screams immediately rang out from the bandits.

    The situation had flippedpletely.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er had epted that she was about to meet her doom. However, when she saw Chen Fan suppressing Scarface, her eyes flickered excitedly, and she cried out, ¡°Get them, kill these bastards!¡±

    She liked to act chivalrously and uphold justice and felt nothing but hatred and disgust for these inhuman bandits.

    Naturally, she seized the opportunity tomand her guards to eliminate the bandits.

    Although her cultivation level was not high¡ªthe second level of the Yuanfu realm¡ªher attacks were clean and sharp, disying extraordinary strength.

    Locked inbat with Chen Fan, Scarface immediately grew enraged when he saw Granny Rong and the others massacring his brothers. His eyes turned bloodshot, and he emitted a ferocious aura.

    ¡°Damn you, you little bastard! I¡¯ll skin you alive!¡±

    ¡°Hmph, with just you?¡± Chen Fan snorted disdainfully. His gaze suddenly turned fierce, and he swung his sword, unleashing a sword qi much more formidable than before.

    The swift and powerful sword qi destroyed Scarface¡¯s Northern Goshawk Thirteen ws and continued on its trajectory, striking Scarface''s left arm.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Scarface¡¯s left arm was severed like tofu and flew out. Scarlet blood sprayed out from the wound like a fountain, raining blood from the sky. In pain, he screamed miserably and quickly retreated some distance away.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    His scream naturally drew the attention of others.

    A look of surprise immediately showed on Granny Rong¡¯s withered face. Then, it turned into a look of joy, feeling greatly relieved inside.

    ¡°So strong!¡±

    An unusual light flickered in Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s eyes as well. She hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to be powerful enough to make Scarface feel helpless.

    Conversely, panic spread among the bandits. Their collective momentum suffered a severe blow.

    ¡°Curse you, brat. I will remember your face. Just wait. I¡¯ll definitely get my revenge!¡±

    Scarface, filled with fear, vowed with a twisted and hideous expression, the pain from his severed arm evident.

    He had a feeling Chen Fan was hiding his cultivation. Otherwise, he couldn''t have chopped off his left arm in one sh, no matter how high a sword cultivator¡¯s offensive ability was.

    He did not dare to continue fighting Chen Fan. Scarface abandoned his subordinates and sped off into the distance.

    ¡°Ah, Young Sir, we mustn¡¯t let him get away! He¡¯ll surely wreak havoc again when he recovers. Who knows how many people he¡¯ll kill then!¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately shouted.

    Chen Fan shot a nce at Chu Xuan¡¯er. He did not say a word and chased after Scarface.

    Granny Rong, Chu Xuan¡¯er, and their group sessfully eradicated the remaining bandits in Cloudsun Town a quarter of an hourter.

    Chen Fan returned with Scarface''s head, tossing it on the ground. The severed head rolled a few times before stopping at Chu Xuan¡¯er''s feet.

    She jumped in fright and eximed in shock, ¡°Ah, you really killed him!¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er hadn''t expected that Chen Fan would catch up to Scarface, let alone seed in killing him. Her admiration for Chen Fan grew as she looked at him anew.

    Granny Rong stepped forward and performed a curtsy to Chen Fan. ¡°Many thanks to Young Sir for saving us. If it wasn¡¯t for you, I¡¯m afraid everyone here would have died.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I just happened to be passing by,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Granny Rong added, ¡°Young Sir, you are so powerful despite your age. You are even a sword cultivator so strong that Scarface fell to your sword. You truly deserve to be called a young talent. Are you an elite disciple from some sect?¡±

    Granny Rong naturally knew about some of the rules of the sects of the Great Chu Empire.

    Those below the fifth level were known as elite disciples. They would be promoted to core disciples after reaching the fifth level.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was at the fourth level. It went without saying that he was an elite disciple.

 Chapter 263 - Zhao Yuanâ€™s Hostility

    <h4>Chapter 263 - Zhao Yuan¡¯s Hostility</h4>

    ¡°Hoho, I¡¯m just a rogue cultivator; I am not affiliated with any n or sect,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Granny Rong regarded him skeptically and said, ¡°A rogue cultivator?¡±

    ¡°Ah, Granny, why are you asking so much?¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er walked up to Chen Fan and said, ¡°I¡¯m Chu Xuan¡¯er. Thank you very much for today. Without you, I might have ended up as Scarface''s chieftress."

    Chu Xuan''er yfully stuck out her tongue, looking rather quirky.

    Scarface had killed Uncle Fu easily, and Granny Rong had been about to sacrifice herself to buy her time. Suffice to say, Chu Xuan''er had been terrified.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er knew that Granny Rong couldn¡¯t have stopped Scarface, so her chances of escaping had been slim to none.

    When she thought about what Scarface would have done to her, Chu Xuan¡¯er could not help but shiver.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan had descended from the sky. Not only did he save them, but he also killed Scarface.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er asked, ¡°Oh, right, I still don¡¯t know your name.¡±

    Observing Chu Xuan''er''s demeanor, Granny Rong couldn''t help but furrow her brow slightly.

    Although Chen Fan had saved their lives, one should always be vignt. After all, Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s identity was extraordinary.

    Countless people with ulterior motives had tried to get close to Chu Xuan¡¯er. Naturally, Granny Rong would be suspicious of Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan casually said, ¡°Wang Dongfan.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er repeated the name to herself and said, ¡°You said you were passing by. Did youe from the imperial city, or are you going there? If you¡¯re going, you cane with us.¡±

    Granny Rong hurriedly raised her voice at the invitation.

    ¡°Young Miss!¡±

    Chen Fan subtly nced at Granny Rong, understanding her unspoken concerns. However, he disregarded them and replied, "I''m on my way to the imperial city."

    Since Chu Xuan¡¯er had such extraordinary status¡ªa princess of the imperial city¡ªshe would know the structure of the imperial city like the back of her hand.

    This was his first time going to the imperial city. Being unfamiliar with the area, he could learn more about the city from Chu Xuan¡¯er.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately said happily, ¡°That¡¯s great. I¡¯m heading back there. Let¡¯s go together. You saved my life. I¡¯ll surely repay you properly. Also, I will introduce you to a good sister of mine.¡±

    On the sidelines, Granny Rong found herself at a loss for words. She decided to no longer dissuade Chu Xuan''er and investigate Chen Fan upon their return to the Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Sure.¡±

    With that settled, the group left Cloudsun Town amid the gratitude of the townspeople.

    Walking out of Cloudsun Town, Chu Xuan¡¯er instructed Granny Rong, ¡°Granny, send Lin Ziang¡¯s corpse back to the Lin n mansion when we¡¯re back in the imperial city and tell the Lin n what happened truthfully.¡±

    Although the Lin n was only a second or third-rate n in the imperial city, it was still prestigious. Lin Ziang was a descendant of the Lin n, so they were obligated to report this matter to them.

    Granny Rong nodded and said, ¡°Yes.¡±

    The group had traveled less than ten miles when someone suddenly came flying toward them.

    ¡°Xuan¡¯er, are you guys alright?¡±

    The neer was Zhao Yuan.

    He had taken off in the imperial city¡¯s direction and hid nearby. He had already signaled his n for assistance and awaited the arrival of Zhao n experts. Surprisingly, Chu Xuan''er''s group appeared unharmed.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er was also surprised. Then, she said coldly, ¡°Zhao Yuan, didn¡¯t you run away?¡±

    Although it was understandable for Zhao Yuan to flee alone, Chu Xuan''er couldn''t help but feel uneasy. She disyed a less than friendly attitude towards him now.

    With an awkward expression, Zhao Yuan said, ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood, Xuan¡¯er. I wasn¡¯t trying to flee. I went to call for reinforcements.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er sneered coldly, ¡°Reinforcements? Where are they?¡±

    ¡°This...¡± Zhao Yuan felt even more awkward. He did not know how to answer her, but he quickly spotted Chen Fan and changed the topic. ¡°Xuan¡¯er, who is this person?¡±

    ¡°Hmph, he is none of your business! Also, please call me Chu Xuan¡¯er!¡± she retorted with an attitude. However, she immediately turned to Chen Fan and said sweetly, "Big Brother Dongfan, can I address you like this?"

    Chen Fan shrugged and said, ¡°Whatever you want. It¡¯s just a name.¡±

    ¡°Heehee.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er giggled gleefully and asked, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, where are you from? Why are you going to the imperial city? Do you have any friends there? Do you have a ce to stay? If you don¡¯t, then why don¡¯t you stay at my ce since you saved me? My home is really big...¡±

    Behind them, Zhao Yuan saw how intimate Chu Xuan¡¯er and Chen Fan were acting. A frosty light shone in his eyes, revealing a hint of killing intent deep within.

    He pulled a guard over and asked, ¡°Who is this guy?¡±

    The guard told Zhao Yuan what happened previously.

    Zhao Yuan caught up to them with a jog and said carelessly, ¡°Xuan¡¯er, be cautious not to be deceived by someone with hidden motives. Who knows if he¡¯s in cahoots with those bandits?¡±

    Hearing the nder, Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately said coldly, ¡°Hmph, Zhao Yuan, don¡¯t go ndering others. How could Big Brother Dongfan be with those people?

    ¡°Also, Zhao Yuan, I''ve already told you to call me Chu Xuan''er. We''re not acquaintances. Keep your distance!"

    ¡°You...¡± Zhao Yuan¡¯s expression became even uglier. ¡°Fine, Chu Xuan¡¯er, I¡¯m not spouting nonsense. Consider your status as themandery princess of the Calm Sun. Numerous people want to get close to you. This person''s unknown origin is suspicious. Is it merely a coincidence that he appeared during the bandit raid on Cloudsun Town? I''m only looking out for you, as I don¡¯t want you to fall victim to deception.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s expression turned ugly. She looked at Zhao Yuan angrily and said, ¡°Zhao Yuan, I don¡¯t need your concern. Stay away from me in the future, and don¡¯t appear in my line of sight. I don¡¯t wish to see you.¡±

    She then pulled on Chen Fan¡¯s arm and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Big Brother Dongfan, I trust you and won''t doubt your character. Let''s go. Ignore this annoying guy.¡±

    ¡°Alright,¡± Chen Fan said sinctly.

    He knew why Zhao Yuan bore such hostility against him, but he did not put it to heart.

    Earlier, he had already learned of Zhao Yuan¡¯s identity from Chu Xuan¡¯er. The Zhao n was Zhao Ru¡¯s n, so he didn¡¯t have a good impression of them.

    If it had not been for Chu Xuan¡¯er and the others being around, he would have ended Zhao Yuan with a p.

    Zhao Yuan stood on the spot, looking at the backs of Chu Xuan¡¯er and Chen Fan as they spoke andughed. Killing intent showed in his eyes.

    Zhao Yuan roared furiously in his heart. <i>Damn it! You little bastard, you darey your hands on the woman I, Zhao Yuan, have my eyes on. You¡¯re destined to die! And you, Chu Xuan¡¯er, you bitch, I¡¯ve been pursuing you for so long, following you everywhere and being at your beck and call, yet I can¡¯tpare to this little bastard?!</i>

    Zhao Yuan''s feelings morphed into intense hatred for both Chen Fan and Chu Xuan''er.

 Chapter 264 - Inquiring Information

    <h4>Chapter 264 - Inquiring Information</h4>

    Chu Xuan¡¯er pulled Chen Fan along, ignoring Zhao Yuan. She stuck out her tongue and asked, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, you¡¯re so strong. Are you really not an elite disciple of a sect?¡±

    In her opinion, Chen Fan was truly too powerful. Only thoserge ns or sects could produce such a young talent.

    However, he had imed to be unaffiliated with any sect or n, iming to hail from a remote area. This left Chu Xuan¡¯er somewhat skeptical.

    Chen Fan nced at Chu Xuan¡¯er and said, ¡°Why are you assuming one needs to be an elite disciple to wield such power?¡±

    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll believe you, Big Brother Dongfan.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er smiled.

    Chen Fan didn''t dwell on the matter and swiftly redirected the conversation. ¡°Right, Princess Xuan¡¯er, this is¡ª¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er interrupted him and said, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, you can just call me Xuan¡¯er. No need to be so formal. You¡¯re my savior.¡±

    ¡°Ugh... alright then, Xuan¡¯er. This is my first time in the imperial city, and I''m unfamiliar with it. Could you tell me about it?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    ¡°No problem.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er nodded and briefed Chen Fan on the imperial city''s general situation.

    Through her exnation, Chen Fan learned about the city''s structure.

    The imperial city stood as thergest and most prosperous city in the Great Chu Empire, housing a poption exceeding one billion, with martial experts abound. Many powerful martial ns had established themselves in the city, with the four most dominant ones being the Qin n, Yang n, Su n, and Nangong n.

    The four great houses had stood in the imperial city for several thousand years, boasting deep and rich foundations that mirrored the Great Chu Empire''s own history. It underscored the formidable depth of the four great houses'' roots.

    Aside from the four great houses, there were also many second and third-rate ns, like the Zhao n, Lin n, and He n, with over a thousand years of heritage.

    Chen Fan posed some casual questions to Chu Xuan¡¯er to learn more about the city.

    The four great houses wielded considerable influence, essentially having the liberty to act as they pleased within the imperial city. They had numerous Core Formation realm powerhouses in their ranks.

    The number one house was none other than the Qin n. This coincided with the information Chen Zhengqing had told Chen Fan previously.

    The foundations and strengths of second and third-rate ns like the Zhao nrgely varied. Rumors said that they, too, had Core Formation realm powerhouses, but they rarely revealed themselves, leaving the truth uncertain.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er, the daughter of the Calm Sun Marquis and a member of the royal family, held the esteemed title of Commandery Princess.

    Through conversation, Chen Fan discovered that despite her royal status, Chu Xuan¡¯er led a life akin to a chivalrous warrior. She disyed no arrogance or delicateness.

    Chen Fan asked her some questions about the Nangong n inconspicuously.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er had a rather close rtionship with a girl named Nangong Wan¡¯er; thus, she knew some things about the Nangong n.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er suddenly turned and looked at Chen Fan suspiciously. ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, why do you keep asking about the Nangong n?¡±

    Chen Fan rubbed the tip of his nose and said, ¡°Did I? They were just casual questions, though.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er did not think much of it and said, ¡°Oh, by the way, the Nangong n is hosting the Bloodlines Martial Meet soon, which urs once every six years. I can introduce you to Nangong Wan¡¯er.¡±

    ¡°Bloodlines Martial Meet?¡± Chen Fan revealed a puzzled look.

    Chen Zhengqing had briefly mentioned it when recounting events from eighteen years ago, but he had only briefly mentioned it, so Chen Fan didn¡¯t have all the details.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er exined, ¡°The Nangong n has three main bloodlines and many other branch bloodlines. Each Bloodlines Martial Meet determines the standings of these bloodlines, which are not fixed.

    ¡°The Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet is held once every six years. The event encourages the younger generation topete, deciding which bloodlines be main or branch. It also encourages the nsmen to cultivate hard.

    ¡°External assistance is allowed, and given your strength, Big Brother Dongfan, you could be a great asset. Nangong Wan¡¯er of the Moon Bloodline is a good sister of mine. The Moon Bloodline has been suppressed by the Sun and the Star bloodlines in recent years and is on a gradual decline. If they lose in this meet, they might lose their status as a main bloodline."

    Chen Fan, intrigued, remainedposed and asked, ¡°The Moon Bloodline is declining? Why is that?¡±

    ¡°Ehhh...¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er sighed and said, ¡°This matter goes back eighteen years ago. I heard that there was someone called Nangong Yue. She was considered the imperial city''s number one beauty and the designated sessor of the Nangong n. At that time, the Moon Bloodline was the strongest among the three main bloodlines¡ªSun, Moon, and Star.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er continued to share the details with Chen Fan, who organized the information in his mind,prehending the story.

    His father and his mother¡¯s love story had turned out to be a rather huge setback for the Moon Bloodline. The Moon Bloodline experienced a sudden decline from their once-prosperous state. Now, the number of their talents had dwindled, and they teetered on the brink of losing their main bloodline status.

    However, Chen Fan was not interested in any of this. He hurriedly asked, ¡°Then, Xuan¡¯er what happened to Nangong Yue in the end?¡±

    Nangong Yue was his mother, and despite Zhao Ru''s im of her death, neither Chen Zhengqing nor Chen Fan believed it.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er replied, ¡°Wan¡¯er said that the matter nearly turned the Nangong n upside down. The Grand Elder ordered Nangong Yue to be confined within the n, prohibiting her from leaving. This situation persists to this day.¡±

    Chen Fan secretly sighed a breath of relief. It seemed his mother was indeed alive, albeit under house arrest.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er pleaded, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, why don¡¯t you help Wan¡¯er in this meet? You¡¯re so strong. You can definitely help the Moon Bloodline keep their position as a main bloodline.¡±

    Chen Fan said nomittally, ¡°We can discuss it when the timees. Besides, even if I''m willing to help, I''m unsure Nangong Wan¡¯er would ept my aid."

    ¡°It¡¯s decided, then. I¡¯ll introduce you to Wan¡¯er when the timees. She¡¯ll surely be delighted.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er smiled.

    ......

    Half a dayter, in the evening, beautiful orange clouds could be seen in the skies.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, the imperial city is just ahead,¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er said with a smile, pointing at the enormous, magnificent city ahead that was like a gigantic beast prostrating on the earth.

    The imperial city featured a towering city wall reaching a height of three hundred feet, an awe-inspiring sight for any observer. Beneath this mighty wall, a massive gate led to the city.

    This city gate was extremely wide. It was cast in bronze and stood tens of meters tall. At the sides of the city gate were squads of mighty armored soldiers standing guard, wielding spears in their hands.

    Surrounding the imperial city was a river, serving as a moat simr to the one outside Lon Ancient Imperial City.

    The rushing river water flowed, and three expansive stone bridges spanned its surface opposite the city gate. Crossing one of these bridges would lead directly in front of the city gate, providing ess to the imperial city.

 Chapter 265 - Calm Sun Marquis

    <h4>Chapter 265 - Calm Sun Marquis</h4>

    The imperial city of the Great Chu Empire stretched across hundreds of thousands of miles, making it thergest and most populous city in the empire. It was a hub of experts and prosperity.

    On the outskirts of the imperial city, Chen Fan, fatigued from his journey on a Demon Horse, gazed at the towering city walls, feeling a sense of awe.

    These walls, standing at a formidable three hundred feet, were constructed with special materials, rendering them impervious even to Qi Grandmasters.

    ¡°We¡¯re here, Big Brother Dongfan. Let¡¯s enter the imperial city.¡±

    Chu Xuan''er, having grown up in the city, remained unfazed by its grandeur.

    A hint of mockery appeared in Zhao Yuan¡¯s eyes when he saw Chen Fan being shocked and acting like a country bumpkin. He thought, <i>Country bumpkin, peasant.</i>

    Chen Fan nodded slightly at Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s words. The group dismounted and proceeded on foot, crossing a stone bridge over the moat towards the city gates.

    When the guards in front of the city gates saw Chu Xuan¡¯er, they immediately bowed and greeted, ¡°Commandery Princess!¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er waved her hand, not putting on any airs as the Commandery Princess of the Calm Sun.

    ¡°At ease, at ease.¡±

    After Chen Fan and the others entered the imperial city, these guards began talking. ¡°I wonder where Commandery Princess of the Calm Sun went this time to uphold justice?¡±

    ¡°Hmm, I remember the Lin n¡¯s Lin Ziang was with them when she left the city yesterday. I didn¡¯t see him with her today, and an unfamiliar youth has taken his ce.¡±

    "Come to think of it, I recall that Lin Ziang''s guardian, Uncle Fu, is also nowhere to be found."

    ¡°......¡±

    Inside the imperial city, the streets paved with limestone were tens of meters wide. The sounds of beasts roaring rose and fell.

    ¡°So many experts! And many are even riding demon beasts!¡±

    Notably, a Green Ape, a Tier-1, ninth-level demon beast, carried a youth on its shoulders just ahead of Chen Fan. It was much stronger than a Qi Grandmaster, yet here it was, humbly serving as a mount.

    Admittedly, the imperial city was truly impressive.

    In other cities, encountering a Qi Grandmaster-level demon beast like the Green Ape on the streets would cause panic. Yet, here it was as docile as a puppy, its ferocity reduced to that of a mere mount.

    Qi Grandmasters were asmon as cabbages in the imperial city. They even had to be careful on the streets to avoid bumping into people they could not afford to offend.

    Yuanfu realm experts weremon, too. In Watermoon City, they would be considered prominent figures at the top of the hierarchy; here, they weremonce.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er pulled Chen Fan along, heading toward the Calm Sun Marquis mansion.

    ¡°Come with me, Big Brother Dongfan.¡±

    Walking along the main road of the imperial city, Chen Fan couldn''t help but sigh in admiration. The continuous flow of traffic, the well-maintained and spacious streets, and the grandeur of the surrounding buildings left him in awe.

    The imperial city truly lived up to its reputation. Compared to it, Xuanyang City and Watermoon City seemed like mere rural viges.

    His father, Chen Zhengqing, had forged his own path in the imperial city, even bing brothers with Zhao Ru and the others. Looking at the city¡¯s splendor, Chen Fan finally understood why those people still looked down on his father in their hearts.

    The descendants of prestigious ns in the imperial city, born into favorable conditions with powerful family backgrounds, harbored a sense of superiority.

    Even though they made friends with him, they didn''t think much of him since Chen Zhenqing was from a small city.

    This was the confidence nurtured in the imperial city.

    ......

    The Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion upied a prime location in the city''s central district. The neighboring nsprised prestigious martial families, high-ranking officials, and nobility.

    A huge mansion upying close to a thousand mu ofnd sat in the southwest area of the central district, with a magnificence that disyed its deep foundation. [1]

    This hugepound was the Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion.

    The Calm Sun Marquis, Chu Feng, was the younger brother of the current emperor of the Great Chu Empire. Born into royalty, he was conferred the title of Calm Sun Marquis and was a big shot among princes and dukes,parable to a prestigious n like the Zhao n.

    Since they were royalty, their status was above second and third-rate ns like the Zhao n. They could be considered a quasi-first-rate n; their status was just below the four great houses.

    Outside the mansion, the strong guards saw Chu Xuan¡¯er and immediately half-knelt on the ground, paying their greetings. The leader of the group was a Qi Grandmaster.

    ¡°You¡¯ve returned, Young Miss.¡±

    ¡°All rise.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er led Chen Fan into the Marquis mansion. Carved beams and painted pirs were everywhere. It looked extraordinarily magnificent.

    ¡°You¡¯re back, Xuan¡¯er. Are you alright? Are you hurt anywhere?¡±

    Just as they entered the Marquis mansion, a dignified-looking, middle-aged man came up with quick steps, bringing up a whirlwind.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er saw this middle-aged man and called out, ¡°Father.¡±

    This middle-aged man was the Calm Sun Marquis, Chu Feng.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly when he saw Chu Feng.

    He was a genuine Core Formation realm powerhouse. His deep and powerful cultivation gave Chen Fan a sense of pressure.

    An elegant, graceful, and beautiful woman also came over and embraced Chu Xuan¡¯er, her voice choking.

    ¡°Xuan¡¯er, are you hurt anywhere? You¡¯re not allowed to run around from now on. I got so scared, you know that?¡±

    This beautiful woman was Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s mother, the wife of the Calm Sun Marquis, Ming Ruyue. She was at the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm.

    They had already learned what happened in Cloudsun Town and sent people to look for them, but the two groups did not run into each other.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er broke away from Ming Ruyue¡¯s embrace and said, ¡°Father, Mother, I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m not hurt anywhere, all thanks to Big Brother Dongfan. He stepped in and saved us.¡±

    Chu Feng looked at Chen Fan and cupped his fists. ¡°Many thanks to Young Master Wang for saving my girl. I¡¯m very grateful to you.¡±

    Despite being a marquis and a Core Formation realm powerhouse, Chu Feng did not show an overbearing attitude toward his daughter¡¯s savior.

    Chen Fan hurriedly returned the salute.

    ¡°It¡¯s not much, Lord Marquis.¡±

    The two exchanged pleasantries before Chu Feng said, ¡°Since it¡¯s your first time here and you¡¯re my daughter¡¯s savior, why don¡¯t you stay in my humble abode as a show of my gratitude?¡±

    Chen Fan declined out of politeness, but under Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s yful insistence, he nodded and said, ¡°I¡¯ll be intruding upon you then, Lord Marquis.¡±

    Chu Feng said, ¡°Then please go rest in the western courtyard, Young Master Wang, while I have my people prepare a banquet.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Big Brother Dongfan. I¡¯ll bring you to the western courtyard.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er led Chen Fan to the western courtyard that was deeper in the mansion.

    ......

    In the main hall, Chu Feng regained the majesty of a marquis.

    He looked at Granny Rong, kneeling on the ground, and said coldly, ¡°Get up. Tell me what happened.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Granny Rong hurriedly recounted the happenings, not daring to leave out any details.

    Chu Feng tapped on the armrest with his finger. A light flickered in his eyes as he mumbled, ¡°Passing by?¡±

    Granny Rong said carefully, ¡°Lord Marquis, shall I get people to investigate Wang Dongfan¡¯s origins?¡±

    Chu Feng waved his hand and said, ¡°Forget it. All we know is his name. Where and how do we begin investigating? Moreover, he is indeed at the fourth level. Even if he harbors some other thoughts toward Xuan¡¯er, I am fine as long as he doesn¡¯t harm her. But if he dares to use or harm her, I¡¯ll not spare him.¡±

    An extremely powerful but cold aura erupted from Chu Feng, making Granny Rong, a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert, tremble.

    1. About 66.67 hectares ofnd. ?

 Chapter 266 - A Night Visit to the Zhao Clan

    <h4>Chapter 266 - A Night Visit to the Zhao n</h4>

    During the banquet, Chu Xuan¡¯er pushed Chen Fan into drinking lots of wine with her. Before long, she was drunk, her face flushed, and bbered nonstop. Ultimately, the female servants helped her return to her room to rest.

    At the mansion''s gate, the Qi Grandmaster guard captain saw Chen Fan walking out and asked, ¡°Young Master, you¡¯re heading out?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Since it¡¯s my first day here in the imperial city, I have yet to experience the city¡¯s bustling nightlife. I want to experience it for a bit and sober myself up.¡±

    The Qi Grandmaster guard captain nodded and did not stop Chen Fan. The guard immediately entered the mansion and ryed the news to the marquis.

    Despite the nighttime, the imperial city remained well-lit and bustling with activity, with constant sounds of shouting. Chen Fan strolled around, looking like a simple person taking in the new surroundings.

    However, Chen Fan wasughing coldly inside.

    <i>Hehe.</i>

    He had long since noticed he was being followed, likely by people from the Calm Sun Marquis mansion.

    Chen Fan did not mind it.

    He understood Chu Feng¡¯s intention for doing so.

    Chen Fan¡¯s origins were unclear. While he had saved Chu Xuan¡¯er and others in Cloudsun Town, the marquis couldn''t be certain of Chen Fan¡¯s true intentions.

    What stopped him from thinking that Chen Fan was acting to get close to Chu Xuan¡¯er?

    Chen Fan ignored his tail, pretending he had not noticed them, and walked leisurely in the imperial city.

    The Great Chu Empire¡¯s imperial city was vast, and even after walking for several hours, Chen Fan hadn''t covered half of it.

    At a crowded corner, he deftly slipped into the crowd, moving like a fish in water, and vanished from sight.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The two people tailing him were shocked. They hurriedly ran up and searched carefully, but there were no traces of Chen Fan.

    ¡°What should we do? We¡¯ve lost him!¡±

    ¡°Did he make us?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Let¡¯s return and report to Lord Marquis first.¡±

    The two exchanged words and swiftly turned back, rushing toward the Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion.

    After they had left, Chen Fan appeared in a dark corner.

    Watching them leave, Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered with a cold smile. He then seamlessly blended into the crowd and vanished again.

    ......

    In the northwest area, the central district of the imperial city:

    The Zhao n mansion was also extremely huge.

    With a history spanning over a thousand years, the Zhao n was a prestigious martial n deeply rooted in the city. It was one of the top ns even in the imperial city.

    Their nsmen might not necessarily be able to act as they pleased in the city, but few people dared to offend them.

    Numerous people were currently gathered in the Zhao n mansion¡¯s main hall; they all looked angry. The atmosphere in the hall was somewhat heavy.

    A terrified servant, who had been cleaning the Zhao n''s ancestral hall, had rushed in a moment ago, eximing, ¡°Big trouble.¡±

    It turned out that Zhao Ru''s life tablet, housed in the ancestral hall, had shattered. [1]

    These tablets, intricately linked to the owner''s soul, would instantly break upon the owner''s death. Since Zhao Ru¡¯s life tablet had shattered, it meant that he had died.

    Zhao Ru was at the peak of the seventh level¡ªa top expert within the Zhao n. His unexpected demise sent shockwaves throughout the entire n.

    A middle-aged man with an imposing appearance looked at the others and asked, ¡°What happened? What exactly happened?! Why did Zhao Ru¡¯s life tablet shatter?¡±

    This person was the Zhao n¡¯s patriarch, Zhao Hong. The anger on his face was obvious for all to see, and his aura was even colder.

    Zhao Ru was dead, and they did not even know when he died. How could he not be furious?

    One of the Zhao n¡¯s higher-ups said, ¡°Patriarch, Zhao Ru said he was going out to take care of a matter three months ago and left the city. He did not say exactly what the matter was about.¡±

    Zhao Hong roared in a low voice, ¡°If you don¡¯t know, then go find out! A seventh-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse of our Zhao n has died! How did he die, who killed him, and where did he die! Find out everything!¡±

    A cold voice suddenly rang out.

    ¡°No need to investigate. I killed him!¡±

    ¡°Who is it?!¡±

    Zhao Hong and the others¡¯ faces immediately changed. Their eyes sparked as they moved, reappearing outside the main hall.

    In the courtyard, a figure stood on the rockery above a smallke, wearing a mask that revealed only a pair of dark and cold eyes.

    Zhao Hong¡¯s sharp gaze shot toward Chen Fan, and he shouted coldly, ¡°Who are you?¡±

    The mask Chen Fan wore could conceal his aura, so Zhao Hong couldn¡¯t perceive Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation aura despite being at the ninth level. As a result, he could not help but feel somewhat apprehensive toward Chen Fan.

    The Zhao n¡¯s mansion was tightly guarded, yet Chen Fan had sneaked in undetected. Moreover, Chen Fan had concealed his presence from numerous people. They might never have known about the intrusion if he had not revealed himself.

    Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°Who I am is not important. All you need to know is that I killed Zhao Ru!¡±

    ¡°You killed Zhao Ru? How dare you kill our Zhao n¡¯s people!¡± A Zhao n higher-up shouted, their voice filled with killing intent. They stared at Chen Fan with a sharp gaze as if they wanted to drill a hole through him to see him inside and out.

    ¡°Who exactly are you? Acting sneakily and barging into our Zhao n mansion wearing a mask!¡± shouted another Zhao n higher-up coldly, their aura swirling with the intention to apprehend Chen Fan at the slightest provocation.

    ¡°I¡¯m your Zhao n¡¯s enemy! I¡¯vee to you tonight to send you Zhao Ru¡¯s corpse.¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand. Immediately, a headless corpse flew toward Zhao Hong and the others.

    ¡°You really killed Zhao Ru!¡±

    ¡°Damn it! Bastard, you deserve to die!¡±

    ¡°How dare you kill our Zhao n¡¯s people! No matter who you are, only death awaits you!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As soon as Zhao Hong and the others saw the headless corpse, they immediately recognized it belonged to Zhao Ru. Their auras erupted uncontrobly, one after another, forming a violent whirlwind. The whole area was filled with icy killing intent.

    ¡°Bastard, you dare kill our people. You can forget about leaving. I¡¯ll see who you really are!¡±

    A Zhao n higher-up at the seventh level unleashed their aura, and their figure blurred. As if the earth had shrunk, they instantly arrived before Chen Fan, their palm grabbing at him.

    <i>Boom ka!</i>

    This person¡¯s fingers were like an eagle¡¯s w. They were iparably sharp, piercing through the air and pressed down threateningly. The rockery under Chen Fan¡¯s feet crumbled, and the debris rolled down.

    ¡°You bastard, no matter who you are, you¡¯re destined to die for your crime. After I take you down, remove your mask, and find out your real identity, your n shall suffer the cmity of eradication!¡±

    This Zhao n higher-up revealed a vicious expression.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    A cold light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He rubbed his palms together, and the Heaven Piercing Spear appeared.

    Chen Fan channeled his powers fiercely and struck out with a devastating attack, bringing about a deafening shrill. An aura that was like a grim reaper¡¯s spread out.

    1. Briefly mentioned in 79 when Sir Blood Shirt or Xue Yi died and his family learned of the news. ?

 Chapter 267 - Setting Up a Diversion

    <h4>Chapter 267 - Setting Up a Diversion</h4>

    Chen Fan''s muscles twitched, unleashing a burst of strength. It seemed like an ancient beast was waking up. His aura was fiendish, making them feel suffocated. And just when the attack was about to hit him, he moved.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan channeled his strength, and the force pressing toward him immediately dissipated.

    Next, he disappeared from his spot; as if the earth had shrunk, Chen Fan instantly arrived before the Zhao n¡¯s higher-ups and struck out with his spear.

    Each step he took resembled an ancient wild dragon-elephant trampling, shaking the world violently. Thend quivered, reminiscent of a natural disaster.

    Zhao Hong, the Zhao n patriarch, grimaced when he saw the spear. He seemed to have turned into a puff of green smoke as he disappeared from his spot; simultaneously, he roared, ¡°Zhao Feng, quickly dodge!¡±

    Even without the reminder, Zhao Feng could feel the aura of death enveloping him, leaving him profoundly shocked.

    Chen Fan''s Heaven Piercing Spear seemed to draw his soul in, revealing a vast hell and tragic scenes. Cold sweat formed on Zhao Feng''s forehead as Chen Fan''s devastating strike immobilized him.

    Shackled in ce, he could only witness his impending demise with a single thought shing across his mind.

    <i>This is too scary!</i>

    However, he was at the seventh level, so his psyche was only momentarily affected by the spear¡¯s overwhelming killing force. He came to his senses almost instantly and revolved his cultivation to the limit. His primeval force flowed out and enveloped him like a curtain of water.

    ¡°Iron Falcon Wings!¡± Zhao Feng roared angrily, revolving his cultivation fiercely. His primeval force flowed like water.

    Behind him manifested a remarkably handsome and divinely powerful iron-winged falcon, its wings spanning thirty feet. Swiftly, the feathered wings, seemingly crafted from steel, closed around Zhao Feng, producing nging noises and sparks as they collided.

    This was his strongest defensive skill!

    In the face of Chen Fan¡¯s powerful stab, Zhao Feng couldn¡¯t even dodge and could only drive his qi to raise his defense to the limits.

    Chen Fan did not care about it at all, however. Dragon-elephants hissed within him. His strength concentrated on the spear like a mountain torrent, erupting with unstoppable force.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Upon the spear''s impact, ngs resonated, and sparks flew as a terrifying rebounding force threatened to tear Chen Fan''s arm apart. Yet, he only had to channel a bit of his strength to neutralize this rebounding force.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    The torrential strength gushed out of the Heaven Piercing Spear as if it would kill even deities or buddhas in its way.

    Zhao Feng¡¯s defensive martial art was certainly incredibly tough, capable of withstanding an attack from someone at the eighth level. However, the Heaven Piercing Spear was the most powerful offensive art in the world. There was nothing it could not destroy.

    Chen Fan had poured all his strength into this attack, even revolving the five illusory primeval vessels, making it even more devastating. The power contained in this spear was enough to kill an eighth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse.

    Immediately, countless cracks spread on the iron wings as if it was made of ss.

    It shattered into countless pieces with a bang in the blink of an eye.

    With no further obstacles in the Heaven Piercing Spear¡¯s way, it was poised to reap Zhao Feng¡¯s life.

    ¡°No!¡±

    All Zhao Feng felt now was that he was before the grim reaper from hell. He could not resist the grim reaper¡¯s scythe that would soon rob him of his life.

    ¡°You dare!¡± eximed Zhao Hong as he materialized in the air behind Zhao Feng.

    Brandishing a pitch-ck, heavy de resonant with the countless souls it had imed, he swung it down at Chen Fan.

    Zhao Hong had unleashed all his strength as a ninth-level powerhouse in this attack. It could easily kill someone at the eighth level.

    If Chen Fan insisted on killing Zhao Feng, then he would have to receive this de.

    A life for a life!

    Terrifying deathly de intent instantly shrouded Chen Fan, and his heart sank.

    However, he did not withdraw from his attack.

    As the Heaven Piercing Spear continued on its path, Chen Fan simultaneously executed Undefeated King¡¯s Fist and rushed forward.

    The space churned like a tide asyer uponyer of palm seals emerged, forming a mountain-like defense against Zhao Hong¡¯s descending de.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear grewrger in Zhao Feng''s vision, and he instinctively reached for it to stop it, his veins and his muscles bulging.

    ¡°Stop for me!¡±

    s, the force in Chen Fan¡¯s throw was immense. It was simply like the charge of ten thousand horses. Immediately, Zhao Feng¡¯s palm bled profusely from the friction against the Heaven Piercing Spear, feeling unbearable pain.

    However, he ignored all of it. He only had one thought in mind: grab hold of the spear. He couldn¡¯t let the Heaven Piercing Spear continue in its path.

    However, the force contained in the Heaven Piercing Spear was too terrifying. Despite Zhao Feng¡¯s best efforts to grab it, the spear continued whistling forth as if it would never stop until it pierced Zhao Feng¡¯s forehead.

    Chen Fan no longer paid any attention to Zhao Feng. Facing Zhao Hong¡¯s terrifying de, he channeled Undefeated King¡¯s Fist to the limit. With three heads and six arms, he struck outyers of palm seals that formed a mountain.

    However, the countless palm seals were like paper before Zhao Hong¡¯s de. A ripping noise rang out as if the de was cleaving space itself; his palm seals crumbled into nothingness.

    The powerful de qi descended upon Chen Fan. Even though his flesh was as tough as an excellent Grade-2 treasure, it was torn open all the same; he began oozing blood.

    Chen Fan did not feel any of it, however. He used the force of the impact to retreat as his six arms continued striking out, unleashing a barrage of terrifying palm seals that stirred countless whirlwinds.

    Meanwhile, having executed a singr attack, Zhao Hong did not press further.

    He grabbed fiercely with his hand, and the force pierced through the void to grab the Heaven Piercing Spear that Zhao Feng struggled to hold back. His priority was to save Zhao Feng.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going!¡± A thunderous roar rang out. A few more higher-ups of the Zhao n joined the frat. They also made their moves when Zhao Hong struck.

    However, their cultivation levels were lower than Zhao Hong''s, only at the seventh or eighth level, and they were also slower than him.

    Only after Zhao Hong had pushed Chen Fan back with his de and grabbed at the air to stop the Heaven Piercing Spear to save Zhao Feng did their attacks reach Chen Fan.

    Seeing Chen Fan borrowing the force to retreat, these people immediately pounced on him like ravenous wolves, tigers, and leopards.

    With Zhao Hong making a move, they did not have to worry about Zhao Feng getting killed. So, they aimed to capture Chen Fan.

    Otherwise, if word of what happened tonight spread, their Zhao n would be theughingstock of the imperial city.

    A prestigious n of the imperial city had let someone sneak in undetected; moreover, the intruder had nearly killed Zhao Feng in the presence of several experts. If they could not capture the perpetrator, they would be a joke!

    Seeing these peopleing at him like an inescapable of heaven and earth, Chen Fan retreated even quicker. In a sh, he appeared on the walls of Zhao n''s mansion.

    ¡°Haha, you can¡¯t stop me if I want to leave.¡± Chen Fan¡¯sughter echoed in the space; his figure had already disappeared from the Zhao n mansion.

    As for the Heaven Piercing Spear, formed from his primeval force, it would dissipate at his will.

    With a ninth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse like Zhao Hong making a move, he knew it was impossible to kill Zhao Feng.

    Moreover, his objective foring here was to use Zhao Ru¡¯s corpse to divert the Zhao n¡¯s attention from investigating things and tracing it back to the Chen n.

    The current Chen n was no match for the Zhao n.

 Chapter 268 - Nangong Wanâ€™er

    <h4>Chapter 268 - Nangong Wan¡¯er</h4>

    ¡°Thinking of leaving? Not happening!¡±

    Zhao Hong and the others couldn¡¯t let Chen Fan leave so easily. Zhao Hong swiftly moved, creating whirlwinds beneath his feet, overtaking Zhao Zhen and the others. He left the Zhao n¡¯s mansion and pursued Chen Fan with determination.

    That night, it could be said that the Zhao n suffered great humiliation.

    They let Chen Fan infiltrate their mansion unnoticed, even evading the detection of a formidable expert at the ninth level like Zhao Hong.

    Moreover, Chen Fan had not only killed Zhao Ru, but he also seeded in nearly killing Zhao Feng right under their noses. So, no matter what, they couldn¡¯t let him escape.

    Unfortunately for them, Chen Fan quickly executed the Wings of Rain Dragon. His figure flickered several times before disappearing into the pitch-ck night.

    Zhao Hong chased him across half the imperial city, but he failed to catch up with Chen Fan.

    Hovering in the air, Zhao Hong emitted a powerful and ominous aura, drawing attention from the imperial city''s residents.

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s Zhao Hong, right? Why is he causing amotion in the dead of night? Is he looking for a fight?"

    ¡°I sensed intense cultivation ripples from the Zhao n mansion earlier. Could someone have intruded, and they couldn''t apprehend the intruder?"

    ¡°I saw a silhouette sh past earlier. It was so fast, like a blur.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    There were countless experts in the imperial city, but many still quickly recognized Zhao Hong. Seeing the fierce look on his face, the crowd¡¯s eyes flickered.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Zhao Hong and the others returned to the Zhao n mansion. Zhao Feng approached them, still recovering from the shock. He inquired, ¡°How is it? Did you capture him?¡±

    The memory of the earlier incident still sent shivers down his spine.

    If Zhao Hong hadn¡¯t saved him, that mysterious person would have killed him with a single spear.

    Zhao Hong and hispanions wore grim expressions. Shaking his head, Zhao Hong responded, ¡°Go investigate! Mobilize all the n¡¯s forces to track him down! Find him for me, even if you have to dig three feet into the ground!¡±

    ......

    From a dark and remote corner of the imperial city, Chen Fan staggered out with traces of blood at the corners of his mouth.

    Chen Fan had to use all his strength to resist Zhao Hong¡¯s terrifying sh, going as far as to use the attack¡¯s momentum to retreat. The terrifying de intent still reached him, wreaking havoc inside him.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace suppressed a lot of the damage; otherwise, his organs would have been shredded by the de intent.

    Zhao Hong¡¯s attack showed the terrifying strength of someone at the ninth level.

    Chen Fan took out a top-grade Recovery Pill and swallowed it, swiftly restoring a healthy color to his face.

    ¡°Phew...¡±

    Chen Fan had acquired numerous valuable elixirs from Lon Ancient Imperial City''s secret underground vault, including plenty of top-grade Recovery Pills. So, he was well-stocked.

    ¡°Hopefully, my operation tonight will divert the Zhao n¡¯s attention onto me...¡±

    A cold light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Having killed Zhao Ru, Chen Fan faced the risk of the Zhao n tracing the incident back to the Chen n through investigation. So, he had no choice but to make this desperate move to set up a diversion, shifting the Zhao n¡¯s investigative efforts onto him alone.

    None of them saw his true appearance since he had infiltrated the Zhao n¡¯s mansion wearing a mask. Moreover, this being his first time in the city, the likelihood of them connecting him to the crime was low.

    <i>Even if it¡¯s a sess, the diversion won¡¯tst long. If they fail to find out my identity, they¡¯ll look elsewhere and trace Zhao Ru¡¯s movements before his death. It seems I still have to visit the Zhao n mansion again. Should I kill a Zhao n higher-up again? That would be for the best.</i>

    Chen Fan decided on his next move and slowly walked back to the Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion.

    ......

    The night passed quietly, and the next day, the entire imperial city buzzed with discussions about the incident at the Zhao n.

    Last night, a hugemotion had urred in the Zhao n mansion. Even Zhao Hong and the others showed themselves on the city¡¯s streets, emitting intense killing intent. Many people saw them, so they couldn¡¯t cover up this matter.

    Within one night, news of the Zhao n incident spread throughout the city.

    ¡°Did you hear? A mysterious person infiltrated the Zhao nst night, and Zhao Feng was nearly killed in front of Zhao Hong and other high-ranking members."

    ¡°Hehe, forget Zhao Feng. I heard that mysterious person was there to deliver Zhao Ru¡¯s corpse to them.¡±

    ¡°Heavens! Zhao Ru was at the peak of the seventh stage, only a step away from advancing to the eighth level. Moreover, he practiced the Myriad Poison Cultivation Technique, which is said to be incredibly difficult to deal with. It¡¯s impossible for even an eighth-level Yuanfu realm powerhouse to kill him. Could that mysterious person be at the ninth level?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? In any case, the Zhao n suffered a huge lossst night. They still have no clue about the identity or appearance of the mysterious person."

    ¡°......¡±

    The low hum of gossip echoed in various restaurants throughout the imperial city as people exchanged thetest news.

    Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion:

    Chen Fan was throwing punches in the courtyard, exercising. When the old maids in the mansion passed by, he heard them gossiping about what happened in the Zhao n.

    In the midst of this, Chu Xuan''er''s voice reached Chen Fan''s ears even before she arrived.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan.¡±

    ¡°Xuan¡¯er.¡± Chen Fan smiled when he saw Chu Xuan¡¯ering over.

    ¡°Did you hear, Big Brother Dongfan? Something huge happened in the Zhao nst night,¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er said with a look of shock.

    Pretending to be puzzled, Chen Fan asked, "What?"

    ¡°The entire imperial city is abuzz with this news. A mysterious expert sneaked into the Zhao n mansion and nearly killed a higher-up called Zhao Feng in front of their patriarch and other experts.

    ¡°Not only that, another higher-up, Zhao Ru, was also killed by this mysterious expert. He even delivered Zhao Ru''s corpse to the Zhao nst night," Chu Xuan''er excitedly recounted, her face flushed with disbelief.

    Obviously, she never imagined that someone would dare kill an expert of the Zhao n. Not only did they kill their people, but they even dared to sneak into the Zhao n in the night and deliver a corpse.

    It served as both a provocation and a tant disregard for the n''s authority.

    ¡°Something like this happened?! Do you know who did that?" Chen Fan feigned shock, questioning Chu Xuan''er.

    Chu Xuan¡¯erughed and said, ¡°Let alone knowing who he is, the Zhao n doesn¡¯t even know what that mysterious person looks like. I heard he was wearing a mask and concealed his aura. Even Zhao Hong couldn¡¯t sense it. I guess that it¡¯s an enemy that the Zhao n has offended.¡±

    Nodding, Chen Fan chose not to dwell on the matter. Shifting focus, he asked, ¡°You came running here so early. Surely, you¡¯re not here just to tell me about this, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course not.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er shook her head and continued, ¡°I said I¡¯ll introduce you to Nangong Wan¡¯er. She¡¯s a great beauty, okay.¡±

    Chen Fan followed Chu Xuan¡¯er and passed through several gardens and halls, finally arriving in a courtyard.

    From afar, he saw a young woman dressed in an elegant outfit. Her appearance was out of the ordinary and carried an air of serenity about her. She looked ridiculously clean, with no speck of dust on her from head to toe. However, her brow was slightly furrowed, seemingly troubled by some matters.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t need Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s introduction to know that she was Nangong Wan¡¯er.

 Chapter 269 - Agreeing to Support in Battle

    <h4>Chapter 269 - Agreeing to Support in Battle</h4>

    ¡°Sister Wan¡¯er.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er called out upon arriving at the courtyard. She walked up to Nangong Wan¡¯er, pulling Chen Fan along with her, and said, ¡°This is Big Brother Dongfan. He¡¯s really strong. He will be of great help to your Moon Bloodline in the uing Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet.¡±

    Nangong Wan''er, with a striking and graceful demeanor resembling a lily, appeared to be around seventeen to eighteen years old. She had bright eyes and a great figure, something that would draw gazes to her wherever she went.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s gaze fell onto Chen Fan, sizing him up carefully.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er had sent a letter to her before dawn, saying that she wanted to introduce someone who could help the Moon Bloodline in the uing martial meet.

    The Bloodlines Martial Meet was in a few days. The Moon Bloodline had been on a decline, so they received few resources; therefore, they didn¡¯t have the confidence to recruit some experts as their helpers. Even now, they had yet to pull a single expert in as external help.

    Nangong Wan''er was intrigued when she learned that Chen Fan was at the fourth level and was a skilled sword practitioner with great offensive power.

    ¡°Hello, I am Nangong Wan¡¯er.¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er nodded at Chen Fan and greeted him with a gentle attitude.

    Chen Fan returned a nod and replied, ¡°Wang Dongfan.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er did not beat around the bush and went straight to the heart of the matter. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about you from Sister Xuan¡¯er. I¡¯m sure Xuan¡¯er has also told you some things about our Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet. Now, on behalf of the Nangong n¡¯s Moon Bloodline, I would like to ask for you to help us in this fight.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have many resources due to the dwindling number of our talents and the suppression from other bloodlines. So, I can¡¯t pay you a fortune for your help.¡±

    Although Nangong Wan¡¯er wanted to pull Chen Fan to their side, she did not try to conceal things and told Chen Fan about their side''s difficulties.

    While participants in the Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet could enlist external aid, it hinged on the willingness of potential helpers. A crucial factor in this coboration was the agreed-uponpensation for their assistance.

    The Moon Bloodline was currently in a difficult situation, so they couldn''t offer substantial rewards to Chen Fan or anyone else, which was also why they had yet to pull an expert to their side.

    Would others easily agree to assist them without a great price?

    It was a matter of equivalent exchange¡ªa fair transaction.

    Those interested in joining the fight were primarily attracted by the promise of generouspensation, given the inherent risks of participating as external helpers.

    There would be dire consequences if they ran into a ruthless and powerful opponent.

    ¡°Is that so?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Nangong Wan¡¯er with a calm gaze. He did not agree to it right away.

    After all, it would seem abnormal if he was too eager about it.

    Chen Fan asked straightforwardly, ¡°What kind of remuneration can your bloodline give me?¡±

    Chen Fan''s primary objective was not thepensation itself; rather, he saw this opportunity as a means to infiltrate the Nangong n and gather information about his mother.

    After all, the Nangong n was different from the Zhao n.

    He could easily sneak into the Zhao n without being discovered because it had few experts.

    Nangong n, one of the four great houses in the imperial city, boasted a rich heritage spanning several thousand years. Experts were asmon as the clouds in the n, and just the number of Core Formation realm powerhouses could not be counted on one hand. Zhao n simply could neverpare to it.

    Chen Fan could hide from the senses of experts at the ninth level or the first level of the Core Formation realm. However, he couldn¡¯t hide from a fourth or fifth-level Core Formation realm powerhouse. They would pick him up with their senses the moment he entered.

    The Nangong n had such experts!

    He only asked Nangong Wan¡¯er about the remuneration to show an attitude and prevent Nangong Wan¡¯er from growing suspicious.

    Nangong Wan''er carefully considered her offer and eventually proposed, ¡°The best reward I can offer you is an ordinary Grade-3 sword.¡±

    She was appealing to his interests.

    Chen Fan was a sword cultivator. A good sword was very attractive to sword cultivators. Moreover, the price of an ordinary Grade-3 sword was very high, valued at no less than a hundred thousand primeval stones.

    Chen Fan did not agree immediately. Instead, he pondered it deeply.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately acted coquettishly and said, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, help Sister Wan¡¯er this once. I know you¡¯re the best.¡±

    Chen Fan showed a helpless look on his face and said, ¡°Alright, then, I¡¯ll agree to it.¡±

    ¡°Yay, I knew it. Big Brother Dongfan is the best. Mwah!¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er jumped up to her feet happily and nted a kiss on Chen Fan¡¯s face, making him look even more helpless.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er sighed in relief, seeing Chen Fan agreeing to her request.

    In recent days, Nangong Wan''er has been tirelessly traversing the imperial city, trying to recruit young talents with some renown to help the Moon Bloodline. s, many people rejected her due to her embarrassingly shallow pockets.

    Sessfully recruiting a fourth-level Yuanfu realm sword cultivator like Chen Fan for the cost of an ordinary Grade-3 sword felt like a significant triumph for Nangong Wan''er.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er said, ¡°Many thanks to Young Master Wang for your help. Rest assured, the remuneration I promised you will be paid out regardless of our bloodline¡¯s final result.¡±

    Chen Fan said indifferently, ¡°You¡¯re wee. Since I promised you that I¡¯d help, naturally, I will give my best. However, I need you to brief me on the rules of the Bloodlines Martial Meet and provide information about the other bloodlines."

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er exined the rules of the Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet to Chen Fan, giving him a general understanding of the situation.

    The Moon Bloodline¡¯s situation was so dire that one could not bear to look at it.

    Take the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline, for example. They spent a huge fortune inviting many outstanding figures at the fourth level from the imperial city to assist them. Some were even well-known figures at the peak of the fourth level. The methods they had at their disposal could even contend against experts at the fifth level.

    ording to Nangong Wan¡¯er, the Sun and the Star bloodlines had spent such a huge fortune to suppress the Moon Bloodlinepletely, relegating them to a branch bloodline. They wanted the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline to be the only main bloodlines of the Nangong n.

    Afterward, Nangong Wan¡¯er stood up and excused herself. ¡°Alright, Young Master Wang, Sister Xuan¡¯er, I still have to go to the Martial Market Arena to look around. Although Young Master Wang has agreed to assist us, I still want to see if I can recruit a few more people.¡±

    Although Chen Fan had promised to fight for her, she didn¡¯t want to ce all her eggs in one basket.

    Chen Fan did not mind it. Instead, he was intrigued by the mention of the Martial Market Arena.

    ¡°The Martial Market Arena? What kind of ce is that?¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately volunteered to exin. ¡°I know! It¡¯s a fighting arena organized and run by the imperial city¡¯s martial market. As long as people are confident about their cultivation, most would go to the Martial Market Arena to prove their strength...¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er told Chen Fan a few things about the arena.

    The Martial Market Arena was a fighting arena run by the Martial Market. The Martial Market was an external force, simr to the World¡¯s End Pavilion. They operated markets for martial artists and ran fighting arenas; they had a profound background.

    A martial n¡¯s name quickly surfaced in Chen Fan¡¯s mind: the Wu n.

    Wei Buyu had once exined the Tianwu Continent¡¯s power structure to him. The three ns and six sects were the nine overlord-ss forces that reigned over the Tianwu Continent. Those three were ancient martial ns with over ten thousand years of heritage to their name.

    The Great Jin Imperial Court was one of those three ns, and the Wu n was one of the two remaining ancient ns.

    However, Chen Fan had no way of knowing whether the Wu n and the Martial Market were rted. [1]

    After all, the gap between Chen Fan and the Wu n was too big.

    1. The surname Wu and the word for martial are both Îä. If the two are rted, then the Martial Market can also be understood as The Wu¡¯s Marketce. ?

 Chapter 270 - Martial Market Arena

    <h4>Chapter 270 - Martial Market Arena</h4>

    The Martial Market Arena, run by the Martial Market, held a rich history and embodied the martial prowess of its participants. It served as an excellent venue for gaining fame.

    If one were confident in their strength, they woulde to the Martial Market Arena to prove it.

    Achieving ten consecutive victories in the arena came with substantial rewards, particrly in primeval stones. Additionally, victors could secure a spot on the Martial Market''s ranking leaderboard, ensuring widespread recognition across the empire.

    Even other empires and imperial courts would take notice of those with exceptionalbat skills and a high ranking.

    The Martial Market Arena maintained three leaderboards: Mortal, Earth, and Heaven.

    With Martial Market Arenas spanning the globe and a robust information agency, the leaderboards were meticulously crafted. They not only analyzed arena performances but also gathered and organized additional information about martial artists.

    Thus, the three leaderboards of the Martial Market Arena were extremely urate.

    Of course, one had to fight, and fight well, in their arena to enter the leaderboard. Given the vastness of the world and the number of martial artists in it, the Martial Market Arena couldn''t establish rankings without this criterion.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er and Nangong Wan¡¯er''s exnations helped Chen Fan gain a clear understanding of the arena. He was somewhat tempted inside and said, ¡°It¡¯s my first time in this city, and I have never been to the Martial Market Arena before. Why don¡¯t we go there and take a look?¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er thought for a moment before she nodded. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s go together.¡±

    She wanted to witness Chen Fan¡¯s strength firsthand.

    Although Chu Xuan¡¯er had spoken highly of Chen Fan, seeing was believing. When they were at the Martial Market Arena, Chen Fan would most likely try his hand at it. She could then witness Chen Fan¡¯s strength, allowing her to make the proper arrangements for the Bloodlines Martial Meet.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er also wanted to join in on the fun. She hurriedly raised her hand and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ming as well.¡±

    The three left the Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion and headed straight to the Martial Market Arena.

    ......

    The Martial Market was an enormous district.

    It housed many shops exclusively dedicated to the martial path. These establishments included stores selling martial art manuals, herbs, elixirs, treasures, weapons, and more.

    When the group arrived at the Martial Market, they saw a lively scene with martial artists of high cultivation levels bustling about.

    The trio did not stroll around leisurely. Under Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s lead, they went deep into the Martial Market; after walking for about half an hour, they finally arrived at the Martial Market Arena.

    The Martial Market Arena teemed with people from all walks of life.

    Qi Grandmasters were asmon as cabbage here. Yuanfu realm experts were alsomon. Chen Fan spotted two Core Formation realm powerhouses in their short walk here.

    Observers with lower cultivation levels lingered at the arena''s outskirts, observing and learning from the expert martial artists'' techniques.

    To enter the Martial Market Arena, each person had to pay ten primeval stones as an entrance fee.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er paid thirty primeval stones and entered the arena with Chen Fan and Chu Xuan¡¯er.

    ¡°The Martial Market Arena is divided into three main areas. The Mortal ss Battle Pce, the Earth ss Battle Pce, and the Heaven ss Battle Pce,¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er said as she led the way to the Earth ss Battle Pce, ¡°Yuanfu realm experts fight in the Earth ss Battle Pce. We¡¯re going there directly.¡±

    Chen Fan followed by her side and asked, ¡°How do the battle pces work? Can anyone step up to fight, regardless of their cultivation level? What would be the point if someone at the first level is matched against someone at the ninth level?¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er exined, ¡°It doesn¡¯t work like that. Martial artists have their pride and typically choose opponents with simr cultivation levels. Those with higher cultivation levels also avoid challenging those with lower levels, as winning might brand them as bullies, and losing would be a loss of face.

    ¡°However, if someone wins ten matches consecutively, martial artists with higher cultivation may challenge them, recognizing their ability to fight beyond their level.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and asked a few more questions. Before long, the trio was in front of the Earth ss Battle Pce.

    The Earth ss Battle Pce, a grand and ancient ring-shaped building, stood before them. It featured six levels, each equipped with three hundred and sixty viewing stands. From these stands, spectators could watch the battles unfolding in the central fighting arena.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, will you participate in a fightter?¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er asked.

    Next to them, Nangong Wan¡¯er interjected, ¡°Oh, right, I forgot to tell you. Martial artists need to sign a life-and-death agreement before going up to fight. The martial artists who go on stage are all lunatics, hoping to be famous in one battle and employ desperate fighting styles. Even a bit of carelessness could lead to heavy injuries or even death.¡±

    Chen Fan did notment on it. ¡°Let¡¯s go in and have a look first.¡±

    A middle-aged martial artist in his thirties entered the arena.

    He wielded a scarlet red spear, emitting a powerful aura, and said, ¡°I¡¯m the number one disciple of the Sky Crane Sect, Nie Yuan. It¡¯s my first time in the imperial city¡¯s Martial Market Arena. I¡¯m at the third level. Is there anyone willing to be my first opponent?¡±

    There were more than a hundred sects in the Great Chu Empire. However, this number included all big and small sects.

    The Sky Crane Sect was considered a third-rate small sect within the Great Chu Empire, with their Sect Leader not even reaching the Core Formation realm.

    Nie Yuan, the number one disciple, was only at the third level. He would merely be an ordinary elite disciple in a more prominent sect like the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er swept a nce at Nie Yuan and said, ¡°He should be at the middle tote stage of the third level. I guess he will only win two or three matches in a row at best.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er cheered excitedly and said, ¡°Since that is the case, let¡¯s go ce our bets.¡±

    ¡°Sure!" replied Chen Fan. Since they were there, he saw no harm in trying their luck, given his surplus of primeval stones.

    The trio walked to the tallest viewing stand in the battle pce and partook in match betting.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er was in very high spirits. She took out a hundred primeval stones and threw them over.

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet a hundred primeval stones on Nie Yuan winning three matches in a row.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet a hundred primeval stones on Nie Yuan winning two matches in a row.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ......

    Meanwhile, in the Zhao n mansion:

    A servant rushed into the courtyard where Zhao Yuan resided to deliver the news he had just received.

    ¡°Young Master Yuan, those monitoring the Calm Sun Marquis¡¯ mansion sent news saying that Commandery Princess Xuan¡¯er had gone to the Martial Market Arena with Nangong Wan¡¯er and a young man.¡±

    Zhao Yuan¡¯s gaze turned sinister. His voice was so cold that hatred could be heard in his tone.

    ¡°Oh? They went to the Martial Market Arena? Did they see that young man¡¯s face? Are you sure it¡¯s Wang Dongfan, that peasant?¡±

    The servant replied, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s him.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good. Go, call Luo Hun over. That little bastard will die fighting on stage!¡±

    An iparably cold light shot out from Zhao Yuan¡¯s eyes, causing the surrounding temperature to plummet.

    That servant shivered and hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯ll go get him right away.¡±

 Chapter 271 - Nangong Fengyun

    <h4>Chapter 271 - Nangong Fengyun</h4>

    A lot of people took part in betting on the matches. If one consistently made urate predictions, they could potentially amass a fortune.

    Nie Yuan, with his third-level cultivation, was average at best. Predictions varied, with some specting he could win up to five consecutive matches, while the majority ced their bets on two or three victories.

    The first challenger, a martial artist in their forties, had a simr cultivation level to Nie Yuan. It could be said that they were about the same in strength.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Nie Yuan stood in the middle of the arena. He used only ten moves to send his first opponent flying off the arena.

    ¡°Crap! I misjudged him. Nie Yuan may havee from a third-rate small sect; being the number one disciple, he must have received guidance from his sect¡¯s experts. I¡¯m afraid he can win five matches in a row.¡±

    ¡°Right, right, we¡¯ve misjudged him. Luckily, I only bet fifty primeval stones. It¡¯s not too much.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Nie Yuan¡¯s first battle surprised the onlookers. Some of them even expressed their regret for betting wrongly.

    Chen Fan, however, watched calmly. Even if he lost his bet, it was only a hundred primeval stones; he wouldn¡¯t cry over it.

    Soon, another third-level Yuanfu realm martial artist jumped on stage and fought Nie Yuan.

    This person¡¯s strength was decent, being slightly stronger than the first. He exchanged over a hundred moves with Nie Yuan before thetter seized an opening and sent them flying.

    Nie Yuan won for the second time.

    ¡°Haha, I¡¯ll win as long as he wins one more match,¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er said excitedly.

    The atmosphere in the battle pce heated up after Nie Yuan won two matches in a row. Spectators in the stands erupted into wild cheers.

    Under the crowd¡¯s wild cheers, a youth who seemed to be in his early twenties stepped into the arena. He had a fierce aura and robust cultivation; his gaze was sharp as a sword. He brandished a de, and his de qi whistled through the air.

    Nie Yuan squinted. He knew he hade across a strong foe.

    The two engaged in a fierce back-and-forth battle, unleashing explosive qi that sent shockwaves in all directions, even causing the fighting arena to tremble.

    Ultimately, the de-wielding youth proved slightly superior, defeating Nie Yuan.

    ¡°Ah, he lost!¡±mented Chu Xuan¡¯er with a pout.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°It''s understandable. His opponent is at thete stage of the third level. His cultivation is robust, and he has great physical strength. Moreover, he specializes in de techniques, making each of his moves wild and fierce. Nie Yuan had a tough match.¡±

    The subsequent battles were thrilling, yet no one managed to secure more than five consecutive wins.

    Eager to try his luck, Chen Fan was about to step into the arena when a voice interrupted from the sidelines.

    ¡°Huh, isn¡¯t this my dear cousin Wan¡¯er? Back to the Martial Market Arena for talent scouting, are we? I wonder which young talent caught your eye? If you haven¡¯t recruited anyone, I don¡¯t mind sending you one of mine to let you order them around.¡± A distinctive voice echoed, prompting Chen Fan to lower his lifted leg and turn around. A youth, approximately twenty years old, swaggered over with twopanions in tow.

    People nearby instinctively made way, clearly aware of the youth''s identity and unwilling to offend him.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er saw the youth, and a look of disgust appeared in her eyes. She said coldly, ¡°Nangong Fengyun, what are you doing here?¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er whispered to Chen Fan, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, this annoying guy is Nangong Fengyun. He¡¯s from the Nangong n¡¯s Star Bloodline...¡±

    Nangong Fengyun strolled over with a smile and said, ¡°Whatever could you mean by that, Wan¡¯er? Do you run the Martial Market Arena? Why are you allowed toe but not me?¡±

    A youth in blue attire stepped forward from behind Nangong Fengyun and bowed respectfully to Nangong Wan''er with a gentle smile. ¡°We meet again, Miss Wan¡¯er.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s expression was somewhat ugly as she replied, ¡°So Nangong Fengyun recruited you, Muye Xiao.¡± [1]

    This blue-clothed youth was Muye Xiao¡ªan elite disciple of the Divine Light Sect at the peak of the fourth level. Three months ago, he had won ten consecutive matches in the battle pce, creating quite a buzz in the imperial city and establishing his reputation.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er had tried to recruit Muye Xiao, but he politely turned her down. Surprisingly, he now followed Nangong Fengyun, clearly having been recruited by him.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s Muye Xiao of the Divine Light Sect. Did he win all those battles three months ago in the Earth ss Battle Pce? He even defeated an early-stage, fifth-level expert. His name is on the Earth Leaderboard.¡±

    ¡°I know. I actually saw him fight three months ago with my own eyes. He can manipte sun rays when he unleashes his cultivation, transforming them into various weapons. It''s truly formidable."

    ¡°Hehe, I wonder if he''ll grace the stage today. If he does, I''ll bet on him securing eleven consecutive victories!"

    ¡°......¡±

    Some nearby people recognized Muye Xiao and murmured among themselves.

    ¡°Haha, I¡¯ll be honest, Nangong Wan¡¯er. Your efforts? They are meaningless. Your bloodline is bound to get removed as one of the primary bloodlines at this Bloodlines Martial Meet.

    ¡°Of course, you can¡¯t me any of this on us. If you want to me, point your fingers at your aunt, who brought shame to our n. The removal of your bloodline as a primary bloodline is the consequence of her sins!"

    A light immediately flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    <i>Aunt? My mother, Nangong Yue, is Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s paternal aunt?</i>

    Chen Fan did not expect that. [2]

    Chu Xuan¡¯er could not listen to it anymore and said, ¡°Hmph, why the arrogance, Nangong Fengyun? Let me enlighten you¡ªSister Wan''er has already recruited someone. See this guy? He''s Big Brother Dongfan."

    Nangong Fengyun¡¯s gaze immediately fell on Chen Fan. He sized up Chen Fan momentarily and said, ¡°Oh. Did you really promise to fight for her in the meet? You better weigh your choices carefully. I hope you won¡¯t end up walking on the wrong path; I heard it leads to death!"

    His words carried a subtle yet evident undertone of threat.

    Nangong Fengyun smiled and said, ¡°Of course, if you decide to join our Star Bloodline and fight for us, I can double Nangong Wan''er¡¯s offer! Her Moon Bloodline is already on a decline. I¡¯m sure they can¡¯t offer you anything good.¡±

    Nangong Wan''er''s face sank, concerned that Chen Fan might reconsider.

    Chen Fan said indifferently, ¡°Hoho, thanks, but no. Your Star Bloodline doesn''t pique my interest. As for the path leading to death... I am a really lucky person, and not just anyone can threaten me.¡±

    Nangong Wan''er breathed a sigh of relief.

    Nangong Fengyun squinted, revealing an icy intent.

    After a brief pause, he adopted a light smile and said, ¡°Hoho, alright, very well. Then I¡¯ll look forward to your performance at the Bloodlines Martial Meet.¡±

    Chen Fan curled his lips and turned his head away, not paying any attention to him.

    1. Interestingly, I thought he is surnamed Mu at first, but it turns out he¡¯s surnamed Muye, a Japanese family name that should be Makino if Google didn¡¯t fail me. There¡¯s no Japan in this universe, and no othernguage has been revealed, so I¡¯ll leave it as Muye. ?

    2. Meaning he didn¡¯t think their rtionship would be so close, being the child of Nangong Yue¡¯s brother. He thought they would have a more distant rtionship. ?

 Chapter 272 - Going on Stage

    <h4>Chapter 272 - Going on Stage</h4>

    ¡°Damn him!¡±

    Noticing Chen Fan''s disregard, Nangong Fengyun''s eyes shed with icy killing intent.

    ¡°Hoho, don''t worry, Brother Fengyun. Wait till this kid steps into the arena. I¡¯ll meet him there and teach him the consequences of offending you,¡± said another youth with a cold smile.

    This man was Ding Haipeng, a genius from the Tianhai County¡¯s Ding n. He had gained some fame in the imperial city by winning seven consecutive matches in the battle pce; subsequently, Nangong Fengyun recruited him for the martial meet.

    ¡°Haha, good. With Brother Haipeng giving me your word, that little bastard is dead for sure!¡± Nangong Fengyun smiled coldly and turned his head to look to the side. He looked at Chen Fan like he was looking at a dead man walking.

    ......

    On this side, Nangong Wan''er shared some information with Chen Fan while observing the intense battles in the arena. ¡°That''s Nangong Fengyun, a standout talent among the Nangong n''s junior members with the Star Bloodline. He recruited two individuals: Muye Xiao and Ding Haipeng, both of whom are famous in the imperial city.

    ¡°I shan¡¯t delve into details about Nangong Fengyun. You''re already somewhat familiar with the structure of our n. The Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline have been suppressing my bloodline for the past eighteen years, ever since my aunt''s scandal. Now, we''ve fallen from gracepletely."

    Chen Fan maintained his silence, absorbing the newfound knowledge that his mother had an older brother, who was also Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s father and a former genius of the Nangong n.

    Presently, the Moon Bloodline faced a talent shortage, with only two representatives in the council of elders. One was from Nangong Wan¡¯er''s grandfather''s generation, nearing the end of his life, and the other was Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s father, Nangong Baxiong.

    It could be said that Nangong Baxiong was single-handedly carrying the entire Moon Bloodline on his shoulders. The Moon Bloodline would have copsed long ago if it had not been for him.

    Despite his efforts, the Moon Bloodline was on the brink of crisis.

    Chen Fan asked casually, ¡°Oh, don¡¯t you me your aunt for dragging you guys down?¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er said calmly, ¡°I¡¯d be lying if I said I did not me her, but I can empathize with her reasons back then. So, I actually don¡¯t feel that much hatred for her.¡±

    Indeed, her tone did not carry much resentment.

    ¡°Let''s not dwell on that. Instead, I''ll brief you on Muye Xiao and Ding Haipeng. After all, you will probably run into them during the Bloodlines Martial Meet.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er directed the conversation towards Muye Xiao and Ding Haipeng

    ¡°Muye Xiao is an elite disciple of the Divine Light Sect and is currently at the peak of the fourth level. He¡¯s only a step away from advancing to the fifth level and bing a core disciple.

    ¡°Three months ago, Muye Xiao won ten matches in the battle pce back to back and got his name on the Earth Leaderboard. That made him quite famous in the imperial city. Although his ranking is not high, being on the Earth Leaderboard proves his strength.

    ¡°I tried very hard to recruit him before. Regrettably, our bloodline couldn¡¯t bring out any chips onto the table that could attract him.¡±

    ¡°Muye Xiao practices the Divine Light Sect''s cultivation technique and martial arts. When he revolves his cultivation, he can wield sun rays and make them take shape, transforming them into various weapons to attack. He is powerful.

    ¡°As for that Ding Haipeng, he¡¯s a descendant of the Tianhai County¡¯s Ding n. Tianhai County is a Grade-1 County City, and the Ding n is one of the top ns there. Their foundation and strength are simr to some third-rate ns in the imperial city.

    ¡°He is also at the fourth level, but he specializes in using a spear. His cultivation is robust, and he won seven matches in the Earth ss Battle Pce. Although he¡¯s not at Muye Xiao¡¯s level, he¡¯s also strong.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded in agreement.

    At the Earth ss Battle Pce, it wasn¡¯t every day that one won seven matches in a row.

    The further one went, the stronger the opponent they would face. On top of that, they were not given any time to rest and recover their qi. They had to keep fighting.

    This kind of qi consumption would exhaust anyone without sufficiently robust cultivation after a win or two.

    Since Ding Haipeng could win seven matches in a row, he could be considered top-ss within the fourth level. Meanwhile, Muye Xiao was even more impressive, having achieved ten victories in a row¡ªa feat akin to reaching the heavens.

    Chen Fan suddenly asked, ¡°You¡¯ve told me about the Star Bloodline. What about the Sun Bloodline?¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er sighed again and said, ¡°Currently, the Sun Bloodline stands as the strongest within the Nangong n. They have Nangong Qingshuang. She¡¯s at the top in both appearance and talent. Moreover, she is extremely close to the Qin n¡¯s Qin Jian. <i>Haaa</i>, with Qin Jian helping them, the Sun Bloodline is sure to obtain first ce in the uing Bloodlines Martial Meet.¡±

    ¡°Qin Jian?¡± Chen Fan asked, narrowing his eyes.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er said, ¡°Qin Jian is very famous in the imperial city. His father, Qin Wudi, held great prestige twenty years ago and was the top martial artist of the younger generation at that time. Qin Jian has simrly achieved glory. He won thirteen consecutive matches in the Martial Market Arena and currently holds the thirty-sixth position on the Earth Leaderboard.¡±

    ¡°Is that right...¡±

    A fierce light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    <i>Qin Wudi¡¯s son...</i>

    Eighteen years ago, Qin Wudi had issued the kill order on Chen Fan¡¯s father. That single decision had split their family, separated his father from his mother, and damaged his father¡¯s primeval vessel.

    ¡°Aside from the Sun and the Star, some branch bloodlines are as strong as my bloodline; some might even be stronger. These branches would have their eyes on my Moon Bloodline at this meet. They would think of all methods to remove and rece us.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s tone carried hints of exhaustion.

    In the other martial ns, the young missus and the young masters, such as Nangong Wan¡¯er, would have things go their way. Yet, that wasn¡¯t the reality for her. For the sake of her bloodline, she had to go around trying to recruit others, even humbling herself to beg others for help.

    Chen Fan consoled her and said, ¡°Rest assured. With me here, nothing will happen to your Moon Bloodline.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er smiled and did not say a word. She only treated it as Chen Fanforting her.

    Although Chen Fan was at the fourth level and a sword cultivator, the other bloodlines would all target their Moon Bloodline. It was impossible to resist them all only by relying on her and Chen Fan.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s lukewarm reaction was within Chen Fan¡¯s expectations. He smiled inside and said, ¡°It¡¯s about time for me to try things out in the fighting arena and see how many rounds I can win.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately shouted, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, I believe you can win ten matches in a row!¡±

    ¡°Then go ce your bet.¡±

    Chen Fan tousled Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s head.

    ¡°Okie.¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er went to ce her bet, pulling Nangong Wan¡¯er with her.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan walked down, signed the life and death agreement, and ascended the fighting arena step by step.

    As soon as he stepped into the arena, the battle pce echoed with spection and chatter.

    ¡°Who is this young man? He dares toe to the Earth ss Battle Pce to fight at such a young age?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s probably hoping to be famous! There are too many hot-blooded youths like him. Dozens of them die every month. It¡¯s nothing strange.¡±

    ¡°I noticed him chatting up Nangong Wan¡¯er of the Moon Bloodline and the Calm Sun Commandery Princess earlier..."

    ......

    Meanwhile, from a higher viewing stand, Nangong Fengyun¡¯s trio fixed their gaze on Chen Fan, sporting malevolent smiles.

    ¡°Hoho, look, Brother Fengyun, that kid stepped into the arena.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, Brother Haipeng,ter on, you go teach him a lesson he¡¯ll never forget.¡±

    ¡°No problem.¡± Ding Haipeng smiled coldly as if he was sure to win against Chen Fan.

 Chapter 273 â€“ Invincible

    <h4>Chapter 273 ¨C Invincible</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s first opponent was a middle-aged martial artist in a yellow robe. He appeared to be in his thirties and was at the early stage of the fourth level.

    The opponent wielded a sharp de. He said with a lively voice, ¡°I, Hao Lian, shall be the first to challenge you, baby boy. Make your move, or regret not doing so once I start."

    Looking at Hao Lian indifferently, Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°Cut the crap and make your move. Don¡¯t think you¡¯re stronger than me just because you¡¯re older. You¡¯ll find yourself on the ground the moment I act."

    ¡°Such arrogance!¡±

    Hao Lian was enraged and quickly unleashed his cultivation.

    An invisible qi wave spread out with him at the center, resembling a massive wave in the fighting arena.

    However, with a mere stomp, Chen Fan countered the surge with an invisible force, quelling the turbulence.

    ¡°You do have some strength, but it falls short of earning you the right to challenge me. Watch this!¡± dered Hao Lian, his eyes gleaming sharply. He rushed forth like a whirlwind, wielding his de. The dazzling de light flickered in the space, cold and sharp.

    He wielded his de with both hands. When he was about ten meters away from Chen Fan, he suddenly rose into the air, like a roc spreading its wings. He streaked through the air briefly before suddenly swooping down and chopping at Chen Fan.

    Mount Hua Split!

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Sparks flew, and mes erupted as the de shed violently with the air. A heat current swept at Chen Fan.

    The surrounding air was immediately pushed away, and an invisible force descended like a huge mountain.

    Chen Fan stood there, unmoving. He looked up and struck out.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Arge golden seal flew out from his palm. It instantly grewrger and crushed the air, producing a deafening rumble as it darted toward Hao Lian.

    Thousand Hands Seal, Vajra Seal!

    In mid-air, Hao Lian gripped his de tight and swung it with force. With a whoosh, the air shattered, and the de shed with the Vajra Seal.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A thunderous noise echoed. The resultant gale and the rolling qibined, sweeping out and stirring the space. It was as if the earth was shaking.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Hao Lian had been sent flying; when he fell, he stood up, staggering. With a ng, he stabbed his de into the ground behind him to regain his footing. He looked at Chen Fan with fear and anger.

    ¡°Get down. You¡¯re no match for me,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Hao Lian took a deep breath, turned around, and silently got off the stage.

    That one attack was enough for him to see the difference between their strengths. If he didn¡¯t concede defeat after that, he would be in stupid and blind to reality.

    First match, win!

    Second match, win!

    Third match, win!

    Fourth match, win!

    Chen Fan won the next three fights, one after the other.

    He stood in the center of the fighting arena, steady as a rock. From the start to the end, he never moved a single step.

    All who challenged Chen Fan, be they in the early, middle, orte stage of the fourth level, exited the stage in defeat, courtesy of the Vajra Seal and Golden Light Palm.

    He refrained from using his strongest martial arts, the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist and Heaven Piercing Spear, because he had used them in front of Zhao Hong and the others.

    Using them would be no different from telling the Zhao n he was their intruder, as word of it would surely reach them at some point.

    ¡°This young man is so powerful. He¡¯s already won four matches in a row, yet he isn¡¯t panting for air. Has he even exhausted any of his qi? It¡¯s unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s the first to win four matches consecutively in the battle pce today. I wonder how many matches he¡¯ll win in the end?¡±

    ¡°Judging by his aura, he should be in the middle tote stage. I think he will secure six to seven victories at most. In the earlier matches, his opponents all had slightly weaker cultivation than him. Soon, top experts of the fourth level will be making a move.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people discussed Chen Fan from the viewing standpoint and expressed their opinions.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er said happily, ¡°How is it, Sister Wan¡¯er? I told you, Big Brother Dongfan is very strong. He¡¯s already won four matches in a row, but he hasn¡¯t even drawn his sword yet. Once he reveals his identity as a sword cultivator, he will fight even more fiercely. He should be able to secure ten consecutive victories.¡±

    She was so happy that it seemed that she had secured those four victories.

    ¡°Maybe.¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er smiled lightly.

    Although Chen Fan had already won four matches in a row, the real experts only showed up from the fifth match onward. She was unsure if Chen Fan could ovee the next round.

    ¡°Winning four in a row... He does have some strength, but he¡¯s only average. I can kill him within ten moves!¡± Ding Haipeng said disdainfully.

    Winning four matches in a row was not worth mentioning in front of him. After all, he had won seven matches consecutively.

    Nangong Fengyun looked at Muye Xiao and smiled. ¡°Brother Muye, what do you think?¡±

    Muye Xiao said indifferently, ¡°One move. I kill him.¡±

    Hearing Muye Xiao¡¯s confident answer, Nangong Fengyunughed. ¡°Haha, as expected of Brother Muye. Domineering!¡±

    ¡°Hehe, winning four in a row? That¡¯s interesting. I shall meet him in this round!¡± On the viewing stand was a burly, bald man known as Baldy Qiang. He was a mountain of a man, being two meters tall. He kicked off the ground, leaped across dozens of meters, andnded on the fighting arena.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    A dull thud rang out as hended. The entire ground shook a bit.

    Some people recognized this bald man in the viewing stands and told the nearby spectators about him.

    ¡°Baldy Qiang has made a move. He¡¯s a ferocious character with five consecutive victories. His physical martial arts have already reached a really high level. A kick from him can blow a hill away, and a palm strike can split the earth. He has immense strength; more importantly, he practices the Iron Shirt Cultivation Technique. That gives him great offense and defense.¡±

    ¡°Haha, boy, count yourself unlucky to have run into me. Your progress shall stop here, but you¡¯re not bad to have won four matches consecutively.¡±

    Baldy Qiang looked at Chen Fan, emitting a powerful and invasive aura. His muscles were close to bursting, giving people a strong visual impact, and his voice was loud as a bell.

    ¡°Now, I¡¯ll give you a chance to save some face and let you surrender. Otherwise, I might be unable to control my strength if I throw a palm strike at you. Your bones will at best, and you might die at worst. Make your choice.¡±

    Baldy Qiang waved hisrge iron-like palms around, and the sound of the wind whirring rang out.

    Chen Fan was not intimidated. He did not say a word, only gesturing for Baldy Qiang toe at him with his finger.

    This action angered Baldy Qiang. He shouted, ¡°Brat, you¡¯re pretty arrogant, aren¡¯t you? Since you don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for you, I¡¯ll grant your wish! You won¡¯t even get a chance to surrender! Goy on your bed for a year or two!¡±

    Baldy Qiang shot forth like a cannonball. The entire fighting arena shook violently with his footsteps.

    A fierce wind immediately blew toward Chen Fan, making his clothing flutter wildly.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Immediately, a powerful aura locked onto Chen Fan. A mental image of him being pressed down by an ancient divine mountain sprung into his mind.

 Chapter 274 - Fighting Continuously

    <h4>Chapter 274 - Fighting Continuously</h4>

    The menacing atmosphere intensified as Baldy Qiang closed in on Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly.

    Baldy Qiang possessed formidable strength from birth, having a natural advantage. Additionally, he honed his physique further through a body cultivation technique.

    His physique, qi, and blood were nearly on par with Chen Fan when he had reached the peak of the sixthyer in the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    ¡°Kid, arrogance doesn''t serve well in this arena. I''ve seen youngsters more arrogant than you; ultimately, they all end up begging for mercy. After a few ps, they look so miserable that even their mothers don¡¯t recognize them.

    "But don''t worry, I''m a fair man, and we have no grudges. I won''t kill you, but you''ll experience great physical pain. Consider it a lesson in humility."

    A strong wind blew over as Baldy Qiang¡¯s voice resounded like a huge bell in Chen Fan¡¯s eardrums. He came charging like a wild bull, his every step shaking the ground.

    ¡°Baldy Qiang was born with immense strength. Although he is only at the middle stage of the fourth level, he has both great attack and defense. He can even contend against peak fourth-level realm experts if he goes all out. This kid is sure to lose.¡±

    "It''s just his luck to face Baldy Qiang in his fifth match."

    Chu Xuan''er''s face creased with worry upon hearing the crowd''s discussion.

    Although she admired Chen Fan, she had also heard of Baldy Qiang.

    She knew he was a very troublesome opponent. In the battle pce, even some experts at the peak of the fourth level didn¡¯t want to fight him.

    ¡°Roar!¡± Baldy Qiang let out a roar. His bones emitted crackling noises, and his arms bulged as if they were made of steel, concealing immense strength under his skin, waiting to erupt.

    ¡°Iron Sand Palm!¡±

    Baldy Qiang thrust his palm toward Chen Fan''s head; his palms had a metallic gleam. A qi wave immediately surged, storming toward Chen Fan as if to send him flying.

    ¡°Good timing!¡±

    Everyone thought Chen Fan would surely try his hardest to dodge. However, he instead threw out a palm strike of his own, meeting Baldy Qiang¡¯s attack head-on.

    ¡°Heavens, is he crazy?¡±

    ¡°Legend has it that Baldy Qiang endured excruciating pain to master the Iron Sand Palm. He stuck his hands in hot iron sand, rubbing them continuously without relying on primeval force. It turned his bare palms into formidable weapons, capable of shaping iron like y."

    ¡°This guy is too young and proud. He¡¯ll pay a heavy price for his recklessness. His hand will be ruined.¡±

    ¡°This young man... He really doesn¡¯t know his limits...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The audience in the stands shook their heads, convinced that Chen Fan''s attempt to confront Baldy Qiang''s attack directly was a foolish move.

    Yet, the next moment, those skeptics felt their faces heat up as if they''d been pped.

    Chen Fan''s palm collided with Baldy Qiang''s iron palm, resulting in a resounding sh. It sounded like metal had hit metal.

    The crowd had already imagined Chen Fan¡¯s palms getting crippled, but that did not happen.

    Instead, Baldy Qiang¡¯s iron palms¡ªthe ones he had trained to be impervious to weapons¡ªtore open under the impact, fresh blood flowing out of them.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Is that for real? That kid is fine, but Baldy Qiang¡¯s iron palm is not?¡±

    ¡°Heavens, could it be that this kid¡¯s physique is even tougher than Baldy Qiang¡¯s?¡±

    ¡°How is that possible? People practicing body cultivation might not all be as robust as Baldy Qiang, but they certainly won''t be delicate, pretty boys like this kid."

    ¡°Look at his palm, you guys; it looks so tender. How are those the palms of someone practicing body cultivation?¡±

    ¡°But he clearly didn¡¯t use any primeval force earlier. It was pure physical strength..."

    ¡°......¡±

    Astonished, the crowd wore dumbfounded expressions on every face.

    They were very well aware of Baldy Qiang¡¯s strength and his iron palms'' power.

    Yet, the tall and lean Chen Fan, seemingly a twigpared to Baldy Qiang, had managed to injure him with just his physical strength.

    This was too shocking and too dramatic. It was simply unimaginable.

    Baldy Qiang wore a look of disbelief, too.

    He knew best how powerful his iron palms were.

    He never expected they would tear open one day, bleeding like some ordinary pair of palms.

    In the imperial city, many had physiques stronger than him, but Chen Fan wasn''t one of them!

    Baldy Qiang stared fixedly at Chen Fan and said in a low voice, ¡°I underestimated you, kid. So, you also train your body. Your body cultivation technique doesn¡¯t seem simple, either. You tore open my iron palms. Impressive.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not half bad yourself. Although you are nowhere near as strong as me, you are powerful,¡± said Chen Fan, expressing his honest thoughts.

    His physique underwent initial tempering and strengthening through lightning. Next, he had strengthened it further with Myriad Elephants Divine Art, followed by recasting his body with dragon blood. The resilience of Chen Fan''s physique was on a level iparable to Baldy Qiang.

    Comparing their physique wasparing heaven and earth or cloud and mud.

    Yet, when spoken aloud, his words seemed somewhat arrogant.

    ¡°Kid, you¡¯re even more arrogant than I thought. But in the end, it''ll be you who loses!"

    Chen Fan''s straightforward words angered Baldy Qiang. He no longer held anything back and attacked with full force.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    His cultivation surged, and a golden light enveloped him. He seemed coated in ayer of gold.

    Baldy Qiang''s consecutive palm strikes made the air roll and churn, generating a fierce hurricane in the fighting arena with whirring noises.

    ¡°Baldy Qiang is going all out. The Iron Shirt covers defense, while the Iron Sand Palm handles attack. With both offense and defense, the result is clear at a nce.¡±

    The crowd regained their confidence in Baldy Qiang, seeing him bringing forth his full strength.

    ¡°Haha, you can¡¯t stop me, big guy!¡±

    Chen Fan showed no signs of fear. He kicked off the ground and threw a flurry of punches. The formidable attacks bombarded Baldy Qiang like cannonballs.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    In no time, a terrifying hurricane engulfed the entire fighting arena.

    Chen Fan and Baldy Qiang were locked in a relentless exchange of moves.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to end this, big guy!¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan broke apart theyers of wind and appeared in front of Baldy Qiang. His immacte white palm flew out gently like catkins, but Baldy Qiang''s expression immediately shifted.

    He raised his arms before his chest and roared, ¡°Iron Ropes Across the River!¡±

    As he finished roaring, the palm struck him, and he was thrown into the air, drawing a parab and flying backward.

    He crashed heavily onto the ground with a thud, and his qi and blood churned.

    He was seeing stars.

    Chen Fan''s strike hadnded on his chest, leaving him struggling to catch his breath. Staring at Chen Fan, he failed toprehend what had just urred.

 Chapter 275 - Fighting Consecutively and Winning

    <h4>Chapter 275 - Fighting Consecutively and Winning</h4>

    ¡°What?¡±

    On the viewing stands, Ding Haipeng clenched his fist. He was angry, feeling like a needle had pricked him. He clutched the iron railing tightly, deforming it. Cracking noises rang out as he stared at Chen Fan in shock.

    A regr at the battle pce, Ding Haipeng often fought in the battle pce to hone hisbat skills in his free time. He had previously faced Baldy Qiang and was well aware of his strength.

    He could defeat Baldy Qiang, but it would be, by no means, an effortless feat.

    Baldy Qiang¡¯s body cultivation had reached a high level; even weapons or elements could not harm him if he used the Iron Shirt Cultivation Technique. His Iron Sand Palm was even more powerful¡ªone hit could leave anyone with multiple broken bones.

    How many moves did Chen Fan and Baldy Qiang exchange?

    They fought for fewer than fifty moves before Chen Fan defeated him with a palm strike.

    Ding Haipeng had fought Baldy Qiang intensely, exchanging more than a hundred moves before he could defeat Baldy Qiang. Comparatively, did this not imply that he wasn¡¯t on par with Chen Fan?

    After all, he had boasted in front of Nangong Fengyun earlier, iming he could kill Chen Fan within ten moves.

    ¡°Heavens, I¡¯m not seeing things, am I? Baldy Qiang actually... lost!¡±

    ¡°I underestimated him. This kid conceals his skills well. Despite the intense battle with Baldy Qiang, he appears unruffled, neither flushed nor out of breath. His aura remains steady, revealing no hint of disorder. He''s truly iprehensible."

    ¡°Could this guy possibly have the strength to win ten matches in a row and be listed on the Earth Leaderboard?¡±

    ¡°Not necessarily! Baldy Qiang may be strong, but plenty of people are stronger than him. Winning ten matches in a row won''t be that easy."

    ¡°I think he can win seven matches at most.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see. It¡¯s only the fifth round. The uing challengers will only get stronger. Someone is bound to test his true strength and put an end to his winning streak."

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan defeating Baldy Qiang had surpassed the crowd¡¯s expectations, altering their perspectives.

    ¡°Yay, Big Brother Dongfan won. He defeated that big guy," eximed Chu Xuan''er, relieved and excited. Chen Fan had lived up to her hopes.

    ¡°Not bad,¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er said calmly with a nod, a light flickering in her eyes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength did not disappoint her. Having defeated Baldy Qiang, he could be considered highly skilled within the fourth level, though not yet reaching the top tier.

    ......

    A frivolous voice suddenly rang out. ¡°Impressive. You do have some skills to defeat Baldy Qiang. I, Xue Sihai, shall meet you in this round.¡±

    A schrly-looking youth descended gracefully,nding opposite Chen Fan in the fighting arena.

    ¡°It¡¯s Xue Sihai, a prodigy from the Xue n. He is at the peak of the fourth level. Didn¡¯t he win seven matches consecutively and gain some fame?¡±

    ¡°Xue Sihai couldn¡¯t wait any longer, I see. That kid''s winning streak will end here.¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes lit up when they saw the youth stepping onto the stage.

    The Xue n had simr standing to the Zhao n, a second or third-rate n in the imperial city. Their foundations and strengths were rtively deep and powerful, however.

    As a prodigy from such a prestigious n, he wasn¡¯t a mere hedonist like many other ns¡¯ descendants. He had genuinely cultivated hard to utilize his talents, as proved by his impressive record of seven consecutive wins in the battle pce.

    Xue Sihai observed Chen Fan calmly. Despite thetter''s seemingly rxed stance and apparent vulnerabilities, Xue Sihai squinted his eyes, as Chen Fan just seemed dangerous.

    ¡°Be careful now," he cautioned Chen Fan.

    Next, he moved as swiftly as lightning. He wasn¡¯t some vain and idiotic descendant from a prestigious n, so he didn¡¯t look down on others.

    Brandishing a ck iron spear, Xue Sihai shook his arm, creating a resonant hum. The spear shot forward like a snake emerging from its burrow, thrusting at Chen Fan with remarkable speed and force.

    Chen Fan did not try to take on the attack with his bare hands. He slightly bent his knee and quickly retreated backward.

    However, Xue Sihai advanced as he withdrew, like an abscess attached to bones.

    Suddenly, Xue Sihai stopped.

    <i>Ding!</i>

    A sword appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s hand, though it remained sheathed. He precisely thrust it forward, intercepting Xue Sihai''s spear tip.

    Immediately, an immense force surged forth, making Xue Sihai tremble. He had no choice but to stop.

    ¡°Damn, it turns out this kid has a weapon.¡±

    ¡°A sword? Is he a sword cultivator?¡±

    ¡°How truly arrogant. He¡¯s not drawing his sword even when facing Xue Sihai.¡±

    The crowd¡¯s pupils contracted when they saw this scene.

    Chen Fan did not pay any attention to the crowd¡¯s reactions. A sharp light suddenly shed in his eyes as he moved, his figure turning into a blur.

    Immediately, Xue Sihai felt like an ancient, ferocious beast was pouncing at him. That ferocity made his mind tremble.

    He knew Chen Fan was using his powerful aura to suppress him psychologically.

    However, Xue Sihai was not just anyone¡ªhe was a prodigy. He immediately came back to his senses. His gaze turned sharp, and his arm shook violently. His spear transformed into a blurry silhouette, stabbing through the air nine times.

    ¡°Nine Stars Chain Strikes!¡±

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    However, Chen Fan ignored them. His arms moved with a natural fluidity, effortlessly dismantling Xue Sihai''s nine consecutive strikes.

    Following a muffled noise, Chen Fan¡¯s scabbard mmed into Xue Sihai¡¯s chest, pushing him back repeatedly until his chest felt numb.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan raised his scabbard and said calmly, ¡°You¡¯ve lost.¡±

    Xue Sihai nced at Chen Fan and turned to get off the stage.

    ¡°Amazing. Truly amazing. Even Xue Sihai lost. And that too so quickly!¡±

    ¡°He didn¡¯t even draw his sword to win against someone at the peak of the fourth stage. I wonder where his limit is?¡±

    ¡°I am more curious about who can make him draw his sword.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s gazes flickered.

    On the viewing stand, having crushed the iron railings to bits, Ding Haipeng could no longer hold himself back. He leaped onto the stage with a snort and shouted, ¡°Hmph, I¡¯ll meet him!¡±

    Staring at Chen Fan with an icy gaze, Ding Haipeng said coldly, ¡°Little bastard, I¡¯ll give you a way out. Scram off the stage, and I¡¯ll spare your life. Remember, I said scram, not walk off. Otherwise, only death awaits you!¡±

    Chen Fan regarded Ding Haipeng with indifference and replied, ¡°So, you want to kill me?¡±

    While participants typically signed a life-and-death agreement, they seldom took matters to the extreme unless deep grudges were at y, in which case they would aim to kill.

    Take Chen Fan¡¯s earlier matches, for example. He never dealt any killing blows.

    However, Ding Haipeng spoke harshly as soon as he stepped into the arena, threatening to kill him. An icy light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Scram off the stage if you don¡¯t want to die. I''m not interested in making a move myself. But if you force my hand, death is the only oue.¡± [1]

    Ding Haipeng¡¯s voice was as cold as ever. Anyone could make out the murderous intent in his words.

    ¡°Seriously? Does Ding Haipeng have a grudge against this kid or something? Why is he so full of killing intent?¡±

    ¡°Who knows?¡±

    ¡°Ding Haipeng is also an expert. He¡¯s the pride of Tianhai County¡¯s Ding n. It is considered a prestigious n even in the imperial city. He¡¯s even stronger than Xue Sihai. I wonder what this kid would choose.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯ll probably choose to scram off the fighting arena! Although face is important, no one would pick it over their life. That¡¯s a no-brainer.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so! Ding Haipeng is very strong, but this kid has yet to disy his strength truly. Perhaps he¡¯s a fearsome character pretending to be weak. There¡¯s a chance Ding Haipeng can force him to reveal his true strength.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s possible. In that case, this will be a spectacr fight.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd discussed among themselves, their eyes flickering with anticipation.

    1. The word used is to roll, but meant in a get the hell off way. ?

 Chapter 276 - Killing in Three Strokes

    <h4>Chapter 276 - Killing in Three Strokes</h4>

    From the moment Chen Fan entered the fighting arena until now, he had won six consecutive matches. Yet, he still looked like the fights were a mere cakewalk. It left onlookers uncertain about his limits.

    As Ding Haipeng stepped into the arena, threatening to end Chen Fan''s life, the crowd eagerly anticipated the uing fight.

    Frequent visitors to the battle pce were familiar with Ding Haipeng.

    Although he could not bepared to an influential figure like Muye Xiao, whose name was listed on the Earth Leaderboard, he had quite a bit of fame in the imperial city.

    After all, Ding Haipeng was at the peak of the fourth level, came from a distinguished family, and even had the record of winning seven matches in a row twice.

    Comparatively, Xue Sihai had achieved seven consecutive victories only once; this highlighted Ding Haipeng''s superior strength.

    Now that Ding Haipeng had challenged Chen Fan, the result of this battle was unpredictable. It stirred excitement among the spectators.

    Would Ding Haipeng overwhelm and kill Chen Fan?

    Or would Chen Fan unleash his true strength and kill Ding Haipeng instead?

    The crowd waited for Chen Fan to make his choice.

    ¡°Very well!¡±

    In the face of Ding Haipeng¡¯s threats, Chen Fan smiled chillingly.

    ¡°Since that is the case, I¡¯ll take your worthless life!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words brought about an intense reaction.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    Chen Fan had called his life worthless, Ding Haipeng was thoroughly enraged, and his face became somewhat twisted.

    His cultivation erupted. Fierce winds whistled, sweeping all around. Explosions boomed everywhere.

    Ding Haipeng shot forward with a swish as if a catapultunched him. He was so fast that the spectators only saw a blur; even the strong wind he raised was left in the dust.

    As he revolved his cultivation fiercely, his clothes and hair fluttered wildly. His primeval force surged, and a golden Chinese swordbreaker appeared in his hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With a swing of his arm, golden light blossomed from his Chinese swordbreaker and smashed down.

    With a powerful swing, golden light erupted, creating shockwaves that instantly ruptured the air, producing booming noises that echoed through the space.

    ¡°Go die!¡± Ding Haipeng shouted sinisterly. He held nothing back, as he wanted to turn Chen Fan into meat paste in one hit to relieve his hatred.

    <i>ng!</i>

    However, a sharp ng resonated as Chen Fan skillfully parried Ding Haipeng''s assault with his scabbard. The rebounding force left Ding Haipeng staggering and struggling to catch his breath.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression was cold and calm. He swung his arm once more.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The scabbard struck the golden Chinese swordbreaker. Immediately, Ding Haipeng felt like he had been knocked by a huge mountain, stepping backward uncontrobly.

    With another ng, the golden Chinese swordbreaker also fell to the ground.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    Chen Fan stepped forward, his cultivation stirring. It made people feel like Mt Tai was pressing down on them or that a divine giant had descended into the mortal world.

    ¡°Die!¡± A cold ultimatum escaped from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. With a shing, he drew his sword from its scabbard.

    Icy light gleamed off the de, forcing Ding Haipeng to squint. His muscles tensed, pores contracted, and a deathly aura enveloped him as if he had descended to the eighteenth level of hell.

    A subtle sound reached Ding Haipeng''s ears¡ªthe air being sliced by Chen Fan''s sword.

    <i>Chi!</i>

    Fear gripped Ding Haipeng as he watched a streak of icy sword light aiming for his head, threatening to snatch away his life.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Ding Haipeng¡¯s expression changed drastically. He twitched and trembled as ayer of qi shield materialized before him.

    Unfortunately, as Chen Fan''s sh descended, the entire qi shield proved feeble, torn apart like paper instantly.

    Ding Haipeng screamed as he tried to retreat, ¡°Don¡¯t kil¡ª¡±

    His golden Chinese swordbreaker was on the ground, and now, with his qi shield rendered gone, he was fully exposed to the impending sh. It was a dire situation with no escape.

    Regrettably, he could not finish his sentence before the sword light swiped through him like a hot knife to butter, from top to bottom. He was split into two halves, and his guts spilled all over the ground.

    Silence!

    The entire battle pce fell silent at this moment.

    Ding Haipeng, who had won seven matches consecutively twice on this very stage, was killed by Chen Fan in three strikes.

    The crowd never expected the battle to end so quickly.

    They had expected that there would be a huge, spectacr battle between Chen Fan and Ding Haipeng. Instead, Ding Haipeng had died in only three sword strikes.

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°So, this is his strength?¡±

    ¡°Sword drawn. Life taken!¡±

    ¡°Ding Haipeng, killed in three strikes!¡±

    ¡°He finally drew his sword, though Ding Haipeng had to die for it.¡±

    ¡°This guy... He can win ten matches in a row!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd soon returned to their senses, and lively discussions erupted among them.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan... is so strong!¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s eyes were filled with stars.

    If she admired Chen Fan a bit after he dealt with Scarface, witnessing him defeat an even stronger opponent, Ding Haipeng, in just three moves turned that intoplete idtry.

    ¡°Is this his true strength? Sword cultivator draws sword and takes life!¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er leaned forward slightly, staring fixedly at Chen Fan. A strong light flickered in her pretty eyes, her heart beating fiercely.

    ¡°Perhaps in this Bloodlines Martial Meet, our Moon Bloodline can really...¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s eyes were filled with a trace of anticipation.

    ¡°Damn it, he killed Ding Haipeng!¡± In contrast, Nangong Fengyun''s expression had soured. His gaze turned grim, his dissatisfaction evident.

    He had recruited Ding Haipeng to assist him. Although he did not care whether Ding Haipeng lived or died, Chen Fan killing him in three moves was no different from pping Nangong Fengyun in the face.

    Muye Xiao, seemingly indifferent, remarked, ¡°No need to get angry, Brother Fengyun. Ding Haipeng was just trash. If he''s dead, so be it. He won''t be able to embarrass himself at the Bloodlines Martial Meet.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Ding Haipeng doesn''t matter; he''s useless. Couldn''t even handle that little bastard and yet dared to boast about killing him within ten moves. Truly worthless! But this little bastard killing Ding Haipeng is akin to pping my face,¡± Nangong Fengyun said coldly.

    Muye Xiao smiled lightly and said, ¡°That¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ll kill him on the stage after he wins another round or two.¡±

    "Really? Alright then, I trust you''ll handle it." Nangong Fengyun nodded, cing full confidence in Muye Xiao.

    Although Ding Haipeng had the record of obtaining seven consecutive victories twice, Muye Xiao had his name on the Earth Leaderboard.

    They were both in the fourth level, but Muye Xiao could fight seven or eight Ding Haipeng alone.

    Someone with seven victories and someone with their name on the Earth Leaderboard shouldn¡¯t even bepared. The difference between them was so massive that even achieving the seven-victory record a few more times wouldn¡¯t change anything.

    In the battle pce, every additional consecutive victory was very difficult to achieve.

    That was especially true when the victories reached seven or eight. Every challenger would have seven or eight consecutive victories then, as those with fewer wins were deemed unqualified to step into the arena at this stage.

    For example, Chen Fan was currently on a seven-win streak. The lowest standard for his next opponent would be someone with seven consecutive wins. Otherwise, they did not have the qualifications to challenge Chen Fan.

 Chapter 277 - Winning Eight in a Row

    <h4>Chapter 277 - Winning Eight in a Row</h4>

    Chen Fan was now facing his eighth challenger¡ªZhong Tao. He was at the peak of the fourth level and had won eight consecutive battles twice.

    He came from a humble background, so the rumor mill said that he had seized a unique opportunity in the past. He practiced an upper-profound tier cultivation technique.

    ¡°I¡¯m Zhong Tao, please advise me!¡±

    Politeness marked Zhong Tao''s demeanor as he stepped onto the stage, his short and stout figure adorned with a friendly smile. However, beneath the courtesy, his gaze remained focused.

    Chen Fan reciprocated the greeting. "Please advise me.¡±

    Zhong Tao lightly rubbed the area around his wrist with his finger and retrieved a golden whip.

    His weapon of choice was something very few male fighters used¡ªthe whip.

    The golden whip was thirteen meters long and only as thick as his little finger. It seemed to be a treasure refined using some demon beast¡¯s tendons and precious metals.

    It was not an easy weapon to use. Ordinary people could not evensh the whip straight correctly.

    <i>Snap!</i>

    With a swift motion, Zhong Tao snapped his arm, setting the golden whip into motion. It gracefully circled around him like a nimble snake, emanating circles of mesmerizing golden light.

    Among the various weapon types, the whip was the nemesis of the sword¡ªoveing hardness with its softness,bating the short range with long range.

    Zhong Tao was the perfect example. He could attack Chen Fan freely while standing about a dozen meters away.

    ¡°This kid has probably met his match. Zhong Tao has trained his God Striking Whip to a very high level. With the added advantage of his chosen weapon, defeating Zhong Tao will be challenging if he can''t close the distance.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Zhong Tao winning eight consecutive matches twice is closely rted to his martial arts. The whip acts as an extension of his hand, giving him a strategic advantage in striking wherever he pleases.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s see how this kid tries to break Zhong Tao¡¯s Coiled Snake Formation.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was looking forward to the fight.

    Chen Fan had already proven his strength in previous battles, notably killing the slightly famed Ding Haipeng in just three moves during his seventh match.

    Sword cultivators were known for their high offensive ability and swift and fierce attacks.

    Meanwhile, Zhong Tao skillfully manipted his unpredictable golden whip, creating the Coiled Snake Formation. The whip, resembling a golden snake, produced sharp, ear-piercing sounds as it moved through the air.

    At the tip of the golden whip was a three-inch-long barb. It was even sharper than the tip of a sword. It would rip off the enemy¡¯s skin and flesh on contact, making them bleed non-stop.

    Sharp wind-breaking noise rang out.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Zhong Tao moved the golden whip. The Coiled Snake Formation searched for Chen Fan¡¯s opening tounch a decisive attack.

    ¡°Interesting.¡± Chen Fan smiled inside, not feeling any pressure.

    Suddenly, a sharp, ear-piercing sound rang out.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The ¡°snakehead¡± had stopped circling and suddenly darted like a lightning bolt toward Chen Fan. It moved at a deceptive speed and a tricky angle.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The crowd on the viewing stands immediately eximed excitedly, cheering for him. The expert with two sets of eight consecutive victories had just shown them impablebat experience and timing.

    The crowd assumed that Chen Fan couldn¡¯t dodge that. However, Chen Fan made his move, stabbing out with the Autumn y in a strange way.

    The strike possessed an otherworldly quality¡ªmysterious, unpredictable, and encapsting the profundities of heaven and earth. It cleanly disrupted Zhong Tao''s assault.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan swiftly advanced, pushing toward Zhong Tao and swinging his sword.

    Streaks of sword light shed around Chen Fan, weaving into a ball of sword lights, enveloping him tightly.

    Zhong Tao waved his arm speedily, controlling the golden whip to attack non-stop. He wanted to stop Chen Fan from closing in any further. Yet, he failed his objective.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Wind Demon Sword Light!

    Chen Fan suddenly flung his arm, unleashing a terrifying sword light from the ball of light.

    It tore through the air, annihting all illusory snake silhouettes and heading straight for Zhong Tao. Two streaks of intersecting sword light carved through everything in their path, reducing all whip silhouettes to nothing.

    Wind Demon Cross sh!

    Chen Fan stepped forth, sword intent surging around him. The sword qi rushed into the sky, making the swords of some sword cultivators in the battle pce tremble as if they were about to fly out.

    Wind Demon Blood Rain!

    Wind Demon Grotto Heaven!

    Chen Fan executed two sword styles consecutively, each move iparably swift and fierce.

    Beads of sweat rolled down Zhong Tao¡¯s forehead. He flexed his whip quickly, breaking Chen Fan¡¯s sword light. ¡°Golden Snake Unsheathed!

    The golden whip instantly turned rigid and straight, like a golden spear. It pierced through space, pierced through the sword light and sword qi, stabbing at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan continued his advance forward without panicking.

    He kept swinging his arm and using his cultivation. His primeval forcebined with the sword light, and as he flourished his sword, whirring noises rang out in the air. As he shed, it seemed like a wind demon was dancing wildly.

    Wind Demon Chaotic Dance!

    Failing to achieve anything with his attack, Zhong Tao changed his stance once more. The taut golden whip went limp again; it was so soft now that it could wrap around his finger. Like a flying dragon in the sky, it swooped fiercely to capture the target on the ground.

    ¡°Golden Snake Bes a Dragon!¡±

    Chen Fan raised his sword. Sword light poured out, shing through the clouds.

    ¡°Wind Demon Shocking Cloud sh!¡±

    The golden whiping down at Chen Fan flew back.

    Chen Fan moved straight in, as nothing was in his way. And the very next second, his sword was at Zhong Tao¡¯s neck.

    Sensing the chilling sensation from the sword¡¯s edge, Zhong Tao stiffened. Then, he smiled bitterly and said, ¡°I lost.¡±

    ¡°You let me win.¡±

    Chen Fan put away his sword. With this, he won eight matches in a row!

    As Chen Fan defeated Zhong Tao, two figures entered the Earth ss Battle Pce¡¯s entrance. One of them was Zhao Yuan.

    The other one trailing half a step behind Zhao Yuan was a tall man covered in steel armor, like a demon of war.

    The steel armor weighed at least a hundred jin. Even so, he moved freely like a ferocious beast of steel. As he walked, he emanated an oppressive aura like a mountain, drawing the crowd''s gazes.

    ¡°Heavens, it¡¯s Zhao Yuan and Luo Hun.¡±

    ¡°Steel Devil Luo Hun. He¡¯s a real expert! He has won nine matches consecutively three times. He¡¯s only one win away from winning ten rounds in a row and entering the Martial Market¡¯s Earth Leaderboard, a real monster.

    ¡°Quickly move aside and don¡¯t block the way. We can¡¯t afford to offend either Zhao Yuan or Luo Hun.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people opened a path, seeing Zhao Yuan walking over with Luo Hun.

    Zhao Yuan was a descendant of the Zhao n. His status was extraordinary.

    Although Luo Hun was a follower of Zhao Yuan, he was powerful, wrapped in ayer of nefarious qi, giving off a fierce appearance that would make babies cry.

    It was said that this man was once the leader of a mercenary group but suffered a major setback in a hunting operation. His entire team died to demon beasts except for him.

    He was lucky to survive the crisis and was saved by the Zhao n¡¯s people. Thus, he joined the Zhao n to repay the favor.

 Chapter 278 - Luo Hun

    <h4>Chapter 278 - Luo Hun</h4>

    As they entered, the crowd instinctively made way for them to avoid potential trouble.

    Reaching a viewing stand, Luo Hun positioned himself like a devoted guard, standing behind Zhao Yuan, emanating a strong aura and keeping his focus unwavering.

    Zhao Yuan¡¯s gaze fell onto the fighting arena. When he caught sight of Chen Fan, icy killing intent immediately surged in his eyes.

    ¡°Sure enough, it¡¯s that little bastard!¡±

    In the ninth round, Chen Fan faced off against Xue Sanpo, an aspiring core disciple from the North Star Sect on the brink of reaching the fifth level. Like Luo Hun, he had won nine consecutive matches in the Earth ss Battle Pce three times.

    The North Star Sect was a top-tier sect simr to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    As an elite disciple of the North Star Sect, Xue Sanpo was naturally extremely strong. Armed with the Starbreak Spear, Xue Sanpo unleashed his cultivation, creating a star map above him that absorbed celestial energy, enhancing his attacks significantly.

    Despite how impressive that looked, Chen Fan could destroy him with a snap of his finger. However, he couldn¡¯t, as he didn¡¯t want to expose his true cultivation.

    Therefore, Chen Fan kept his cultivation suppressed to the fourth level and fought Xue Sanpo. Their shes reverberated with the sound of metal shing, creating an intense and closely contested battle.

    ¡°Amazing... He''s actually holding his own against Xue Sanpo!"

    ¡°Stop winning now. I bet on him winning eight matches. I¡¯ll lose everything if he keeps winning.¡±

    ¡°Spectacr. This is too amazing. It¡¯s like a dragon fighting against a tiger.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd pped and cheered, enjoying the spectacle.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er also had a smile on her face. Chen Fan¡¯s strength had exceeded her expectations.

    After exchanging dozens of moves, Xue Sanpo suddenly struck out fiercely.

    ¡°Dubhe Polis!¡±

    His star map rotated vigorously, expanding, and the Dubhe star gleamed brightly, infusing his attacks with the power of stars.

    Chen Fan maintained hisposure, dealing with things with ease.

    Primeval force surged inside his dantian, and power coursed through him. As he swung his arm, the sword lights seamlessly connected, forming an imprable defense. Despite Xue Sanpo''s relentless onught, he couldn''t break through.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    Xue Sanpo unleashed his cultivation fiercely when he saw Chen Fan easily withstand his attacks. The star map shone even more brilliantly. The star that represented Alkaid lit up. His spear was like a dragon, with a star seemingly spinning at the tip of the spear.

    But the climax was yet toe. Xue Sanpo gathered his strength, preparing for his strongest attack.

    In the star map, the Pris star lit up.

    ¡°Dubhe, Alkaid, Pris, Star Killer!¡± [1]

    The star map shed and exploded with a boom. It transformed into three stars, floating at Xue Sanpo¡¯s back. He shook his arm fiercely, stabbing three times consecutively, each representing the three different stars¡¯ powers.

    A dull sound rang out in space under his stabbings.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Chen Fan stood firm as if his feet were anchored to the fighting arena. He simply raised his sword and shed down without employing any specific martial art.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Explosions rang out. This single sh instantly cut apart the three stars and blew up, triggering a qi current that rippled through the air like water.

    A strong wind whistled across the fighting arena. The storm of qi current enveloped the stage. Everyone felt as if a cmity was about to befall them.

    On the viewing stand, Zhao Yuan saw Chen Fan breaking apart Xue Sanpo¡¯s attack in one sh, indicative of his imminent victory. He asked, ¡°What do you think, Luo Hun?¡±

    Luo Hun said indifferently, ¡°Too weak.¡±

    ¡°Good! This little bastard will win soon. I heard the crowd say he¡¯s already won eight in a row, so this will be his ninth win. If he wins, you step in on the tenth and kill him!¡± Zhao Yuan¡¯s cruel voice rang out, his face filled with malice.

    ¡°No problem.¡± Luo Hun¡¯s voice remained calm as ever, without the slightest fluctuation.

    As Zhao Yuan had expected, Chen Fan soon unleashed diverse moves from the Nine Swords of Wind Demon, forcing Xue Sanpo back repeatedly. Overwhelmed, Xue Sanpo was eventually knocked off the stage.

    ¡°He¡¯s already won nine matches. If he wins the next as well, he will enter the Earth Leaderboard!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, am I about to witness the birth of an Earth Leaderboard expert today?¡±

    ¡°It won¡¯t be easy winning ten matches. A fifth-level Yuanfu realm expert will go up as the tenth challenger and stop him in his tracks.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see whether he can win this tenth match.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Enthusiasm lit up everyone''s eyes.

    In the Earth ss Battle Pce, individuals with four to five consecutive victories weremonce, and asionally, there were even those with seven or eight wins.

    However, attaining ten consecutive victories and earning a spot on the Earth Leaderboard was a rare feat.

    The most recent person to achieve this milestone was Muye Xiao from the Divine Light Sect, three months ago. His name had be synonymous with this remarkable aplishment.

    Someone noticed Muye Xiao and immediately cried, ¡°Look, it¡¯s Muye Xiao. I wonder if he¡¯ll step into the arena and stop this guy¡¯s winning streak?¡±

    Nangong Fengyun heard the nearby crowd¡¯s discussions and smiled. ¡°Hoho, Brother Muye, the crowd looks forward to you going on stage.¡±

    Muye Xiao chuckled and said, ¡°Since I promised Brother Fengyun earlier to make this kid repent in hell, fine. In this tenth round, I¡¯ll...¡±

    <i>Bang!</i>

    However, before Muye Xiao could finish his sentence, the sound of a heavy objectnding on the ground rang out from the fighting arena.

    Immediately, the crowd¡¯s gazes shifted over.

    A nine-foot-tall figure in steel armor stood opposite Chen Fan, emitting an intense, oppressive aura.

    ¡°Heavens, it¡¯s Luo Hun!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really him! He actually went up in this round!¡±

    ¡°Luo Hun is fighting. It seems this kid¡¯s dream of winning ten matches and entering the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard will shatter.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, this kid is really unlucky. Luo Hun doesn''t discriminate; he strikes with relentless force every time. Best-case scenario, his limbs will break, and at worst, his cultivation will be crippled, turning him into trash.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Luo Hun was once a mercenary. He¡¯s ruthless and kills people like flies. He is iparably vicious.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was shocked when they saw Luo Hun take the stage. Some couldn''t hide their satisfaction at Chen Fan''s perceived misfortune.

    Muye Xiao¡¯s chuckle froze momentarily. He then smiled lightly and said, ¡°Hoho, it seems there¡¯s no need for me to step into the ring. Luo Hun should be able to help vent your anger.¡±

    Nangong Fengyun nodded and said, ¡°I know about Luo Hun. His methods are ruthless. He¡¯s a vicious character. I¡¯m afraid that little bastard won¡¯t meet a good end now that he¡¯s run into him.¡±

    ¡°Oh no, it¡¯s Luo Hun!¡± On the other side, Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s expression darkened.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s face was also filled with shock.

    Luo Hun¡¯s eyes were void of all emotions. He stared at Chen Fan icily, his steel armor emitting an austere aura. Without a word, he suddenly reached out and attacked, aiming right for Chen Fan¡¯s abdomen, specifically the dantian.

    1. Dubhe, Alkaid, and Pris are the names of stars part of the Big Dipper, a group of seven stars. Polis is the name of a star not rted to the Big Dipper. The name of the sect Xue Sanpo came from is also referring to the Big Dipper. ?

 Chapter 279 - Iâ€™ll Go Kill Him

    <h4>Chapter 279 - I¡¯ll Go Kill Him</h4>

    The winds stirred, and the heavens and earth rumbled as Luo Hun unleashed a swift palm strike, showcasing his seasoned and cunning skills.

    The dantian served as the foundation for martial arts practitioners. If shattered, their cultivation would be wasted, bing a cripple, an existence lower than an ant.

    The attack rushed through space. The air exploded everywhere, trying to shake up Chen Fan¡¯s qi and blood. However, Chen Fan waspletely unaffected, standing firm as a rock.

    It would be ludicrous if a cultivator of the sixth level, like Chen Fan, had his qi and blood shaken by someone in the fourth level.

    Advancing confidently, Chen Fan unleashed his cultivation, and it resonated intensely. With Chen Fan in the center, an invisible qi wave spread out, brimming with power. It collided with the force from Luo Hun''s palm strike.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space exploded. Immediately, a white wave of qi rolled out like a dragon. A strong gale blew wildly, sweeping out in all directions.

    Luo Hun ignored that qi storm. He came flying like a huge bird and swooped down at Chen Fan. His fingers curled like hooks, his qi surged, and he attacked like an eagle preying on a wolf.

    Seeing this move, the crowd immediately thought Chen Fan was in a bad situation.

    Luo Hun''s technique, known as Five Plum Petals Blossom, was a lethal move that made his fingers blossom with five streaks of qi weapons. It was highly taxing on his primeval force, but the move was mysterious and troublesome, making it challenging for anyone to evade.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    However, Chen Fan raised his arm and shot out a fierce sword light. The attack precisely struck the opening in Luo Hun¡¯s attack, shocking the crowd.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Luo Hun''s Five Plum Petals Blossom disintegrated. To evade the lethal sword light, Luo Hun contorted himself in mid-air.

    Luo Hun¡¯sbat skills were indeed very rich.

    Despite having his signature move broken and being pushed into a dangerous situation by Chen Fan, he remainedposed. Like a snake, he calmly twisted himself, disying remarkable flexibility.

    After dodging the deadly sword light, Luo Hun swooped down like an eagle soaring.

    A surge of qi pressed down on Chen Fan, who stood firm like a reef at the seabed, steadfast against the relentless undercurrents.

    Chen Fan skillfully flicked the Autumn y at a strange angle, resembling a shark hunting for prey, jumping high up from the seabed and attacking with an astonishing speed.

    Luo Hun¡¯s stoic expression finally wavered; there was now a hint of shock on his face.

    With a swish, a streak of sword light flew past his face. A strand of hair drifted down while hended on the ground with a stagger, his face covered in cold sweat. He looked at Chen Fan with a grim expression.

    He realized he had underestimated Chen Fan.

    They had only exchanged a few moves so far, yet Chen Fan had found the w in his attack and dismantled it with a single attack every time.

    Luo Hun had spent years on the edge of life and death, umting plenty of methods and experience. And that was precisely why he didn¡¯t die at Chen Fan¡¯s very first attack. Countless thoughts went through his mind.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan expressionlessly held Autumn y; however, he was actually hiding his exhaustion.

    Being at the sixth level, he could fearlessly fight someone at the eighth level. However, he had to act weak in the battle pce and put on a show with Luo Hun and the others.

    He had intended to showcase a small portion of his strength to reassure Nangong Wan¡¯er. However, all this pretending made him exhausted.

    He decided to stop fighting after taking care of Luo Hun.

    <i>Ah, forget it, I¡¯ll end it quickly!</i>

    A fierce light suddenly shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He shot forward as ifunched by a catapult. A cold sword light streaked through space, shing directly at Luo Hun.

    There would be no mercy for Luo Hun.

    Firstly, Zhao Yuan had sent him to deal with Chen Fan. Secondly, Luo Hun tried to destroy his dantian right from the start. Chen Fan might have been in dire straits if he hadn''t been strong enough.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Immediately, streaks of sword light nketed the skies, tearing through the air with a piercing sound that left the onlookers'' scalps tingling.

    ¡°Good! This guy is finally disying his true strength!¡±

    ¡°So, this is what a sword cultivator is like. What powerful sword intent, such fierce sword qi!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a battle between ferocious beasts!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes lit up.

    Luo Hun watched as Chen Fan came at him with his sword. The surrounding space instantly turned into a sword domain. The air became razor-sharp sword qi, striking his steel armor and generating a muffled ringing.

    With narrowed eyes, Luo Hun clenched his fists, unleashing his cultivation and delivering a palm strike.

    A sharp qi burst forth, forming the silhouette of a de in the air that cut through the space and aimed at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Mad Demon Qi de!¡±

    Luo Hun¡¯s Mad Demon Cultivation Technique specialized in its might and ferocity. Empowered by the Mad Demon''s force, it was like a crazy de demon shing wildly and violently. The crazed aura on the de''s edge could captivate the minds of thosecking mental fortitude; just looking at it could induce fear in them.

    ¡°Nice! Amazing! A desman versus a sword cultivator, each refusing to yield an inch. What a great battle!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. In Luo Hun''s former mercenary group, the Mad Demon Mercenary Group, everyone practiced the Mad Demon Cultivation Technique. When they fought, it looked like a couple of strong lunatics were fighting. Theirbat strength and ferocity were unrivaled.¡±

    ¡°A desman¡¯s moves are wide and wild to begin with. Itplements the Mad Demon Cultivation Technique and multiplies his strength. Let¡¯s see if the de is stronger or the sword is sharper.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd erupted in apuse and cheers as Luo Hun unleashed his cultivation, materializing his primeval force into weapons as he became the Mad Demon desman.

    In the past, Luo Hun was renowned as the Mad Demon desman. Following the incident that led to the annihtion of the mercenary group and his subsequent rescue by the Zhao n, he abandoned the de.

    Zhao Yuan had brought him here to deal with Chen Fan, but thetter suppressed him. Finally, he unleashed his true power. Although he did not have an actual de in hand, the power of the sword condensed from primeval force couldn¡¯t be underestimated.

    Chen Fan remained indifferent to the powers of the mad demon that could affect one¡¯s mind.

    His arm swung wildly, sending out streaks of sword light, tearing everything apart. They constantly shed with Luo Hun¡¯s qi de and produced noises of steel shing, along with lots of sparks.

    The de qi and the sword qi swept across the arena. It was iparably violent; even the air had turned sharp.

    Ten moves.

    Thirty moves.

    Fifty moves.

    A hundred moves.

    Two hundred moves.

    The two went back and forth in the fighting arena. de qi and sword qi flew everywhere, sweeping and cutting in all directions.

    <i>It¡¯s about time.</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered. His moves suddenly changed, bing iparably swift and fierce.

    If it was akin to moderate rain earlier, it had transformed into a storm, pelting relentlessly everywhere.

    Luo Hun had been depleting his primeval force at an already high rate. With Chen Fan suddenly altering his moves, he failed to hold on, having exhausted his primeval force. He was repeatedly pushed back, his steel armor ringing loudly from the strikes, sparks flying in all directions.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly burst forth. His sword pierced through the air, piercing Luo Hun¡¯s throat before he could react to the attack.

    Immediately, the sword qi and the de qi in the arena died down. Everything returned to a calm state.

    Chen Fan put away his sword. He purposefully let out a long, turbid breath and wiped away the sweat on his forehead.

    ¡°Hooo...¡±

    ¡°The match is over! Luo Hun has actually... lost!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, ten in a row, he won ten matches consecutively!¡±

    ¡°Awesome, this is amazing! It¡¯s my first time seeing someone winning ten matches in a row!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire battle pce erupted into discussions, excitement buzzing everywhere. The fate of Luo Hun seemed inconsequential, overshadowed by the crowd''s jubtion.

    On the viewing stand, Zhao Yuan''s expression soured. He struck the railings fiercely and cursed, "Useless trash!"

    Chu Xuan¡¯er jumped in joy. ¡°He won! Big Brother Dongfan actually won!¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er was also in disbelief. ¡°He¡¯s so strong!¡±

    ¡°This little bastard has some strength!¡± Nangong Fengyun''s expression was cold, caught off guard by the fight¡¯s oue.

    Muye Xiao¡¯s expression turned grim. He said icily, ¡°I¡¯ll go kill him!¡±

 Chapter 280 - Entering Martial Market Earth Leaderboard

    <h4>Chapter 280 - Entering Martial Market Earth Leaderboard</h4>

    <i>Woah!</i>

    Thunderous cheers echoed in the Earth ss Battle Pce.

    As the audience celebrated the consecutive victories, a figure descended,nding in the fighting arena. Fixing a piercing gaze on Chen Fan, he exuded a palpable killing intent.

    This person was none other than Muye Xiao.

    An abrupt hush fell over the atmosphere as all eyes turned toward the stage in astonishment.

    ¡°Is that for real? It¡¯s Muye Xiao!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s an expert on the Earth Leaderboard. Our Great Chu Empire¡¯s Martial Market Earth Leaderboard only has fifty-three entries. Three months back, he secured ten consecutive victories, conceding defeat only in the eleventh match after a ten-move exchange with a mid-stage, fifth-level expert. He holds the forty-sixth spot on the leaderboard.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps Muye Xiao is thrilled by the hunt and wants to be that kid¡¯s eleventh opponent?¡±

    ¡°I think winning ten matches consecutively is already his limit. When he fought Luo Hun earlier, the two exchanged no fewer than two hundred moves. I¡¯m afraid he has no more primeval force and should be powerless to do battle anymore.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s see if he¡¯ll surrender or try to fight Muye Xiao.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes flickered, looking forward to the two leaderboard rankers¡¯ fight.

    Having already made up his mind, Chen Fan paid no heed to Muye Xiao. Without ncing in his direction, he nonchntly leaped off the stage. ¡°I admit defeat.¡±

    Even he was feeling somewhat embarrassed. After all, he had just fought ten matches with those at the fourth level while at the sixth level. Wasn¡¯t he just bullying the weak?

    Even Muye Xiao, ranked forty-sixth on the leaderboard, was no different from Luo Hun and the others in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He could kill him easily with a snap of his fingers.

    ¡°He admitted defeat!¡±

    ¡°What a pity. I thought he¡¯d at least try fighting Muye Xiao.¡±

    ¡°Clean and straightforward, not dragging his feet. It looks like he has reached his limit and knows it would be useless even if he tried fighting, perhaps even getting injured in the process.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, Nangong Fengyun has already recruited Muye Xiao to assist the Star Bloodline. I saw this guy earlier. He came with Nangong Wan¡¯er. He should be helping the Moon Bloodline. Maybe he won ten matches in a row to assure Nangong Wan¡¯er. Choosing defeat now is a prudent move; crossing swords with Muye Xiao would likely end in his death. Didn''t you feel his chilling killing intent?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Muye Xiao stood on stage, surprised by Chen Fan¡¯s actions. Nangong Fengyun mmed his palm on the railings angrily, his eyes filled with killing intent.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    A battle pce executive approached Chen Fan and presented him with a ck iron token and a hundred thousand primeval stones.

    The executive said, ¡°Congrattions, Young Master Wang, on your ten consecutive victories. You now have the fifty-fourth spot on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard, which is thest rank."

    One could enter the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard if they won ten matches in a row. Chen Fan had surrendered to Muye Xiao¡¯s challenge without fighting, which was why the battle pce put him inst ce.

    The executive ced the ck iron token in Chen Fan¡¯s hand and said, ¡°This is the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard iron token. It represents that we, the Martial Market, acknowledge Young Master Wang¡¯s strength. It is also the identity of a martial artist on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard.¡±

    Chen Fan epted this ck token. The words ¡®Great Chu Empire, Earth Leaderboard 54th, Wang Dongfan¡¯ were imprinted on it.

    After examining it quickly, he put it away, not thinking about it.

    Next, the executive handed Chen Fan the hundred thousand primeval stones and said, ¡°In the Earth ss Battle Pce, martial artists with ten victories are also rewarded a hundred primeval stones. This is a primeval stone crystal card. You can go to the Martial Market in any empire or imperial court to redeem it.¡±

    He had said that casually, but they underlined their profound foundation.

    Chen Fan had suspected the Martial Market was rted to the Wu n of the three ns and six sects. Now, he could basically confirm that it was true.

    He could redeem the crystal card in the Martial Market of any empire or imperial court. One could only imagine the enormity of the Martial Markets. Ordinary martial ns could never hope to achieve things on such a grand scale.

    Only an ancient n with over ten thousand years of heritage, like the Wu n, had the strength and foundation to spread the Martial Market throughout the Tianwu Continent.

    ¡°Many thanks.¡± Chen Fan received the primeval stone crystal card. Then, he walked away and went up to the viewing stands, returning to Nangong Wan¡¯er and Chu Xuan¡¯er.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er immediately grew excited and ran to him. ¡°You¡¯re too amazing, Big Brother Dongfan. You won ten rounds! You are now on the leaderboard!¡±

    Chen Fan tousled her head and smiled, ¡°It¡¯s nothing much. If you work hard, you can also enter the leaderboard in the future.¡±

    ¡°Congrattions, Wang Dongfan.¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er also came over and congratted him.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er said, ¡°Sister Wan¡¯er, I didn¡¯t lie to you, did I? I told you Big Brother Dongfan is really strong, but you didn¡¯t believe me. You do now, don¡¯t you? With Big Brother Dongfan helping you, your Moon Bloodline can resolve your difficulties at the Bloodlines Martial Meet.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes, yes, thank you, Sister Xuan¡¯er.¡± A rare smile blossomed on Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s face.

    She hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to win ten matches and enter the leaderboard. So, she was pleasantly surprised.

    Her bloodline¡¯s chances of remaining as a main bloodline would increase significantly with his assistance.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, what¡¯s your ranking on the leaderboard? There were fifty-three experts before, so now it should be... fifty-four. Is that right?¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er asked curiously.

    Chen Fan tossed the iron token to Chu Xuan¡¯er and said, ¡°Look at it yourself.¡±

    The trio left the battle pce talking andughing, attracting envious gazes along their way.

    ¡°Damn it, that annoying little bastard surrendered!¡± Nangong Fengyun muttered, ring at the trio with a mix of frustration and malice.

    Muye Xiao had also returned.

    Since Chen Fan had admitted defeat, he was not interested in waiting for someone to challenge him. After all, he was an expert whose name was on the Earth Leaderboard. There was simply no one in the same cultivation level who was his match.

    ¡°No need to feel disappointed, Brother Fengyun. He won¡¯t have anywhere to run to at the Bloodlines Martial Meet. He¡¯s destined to die. We are just letting him live for a few more days,¡± Muye Xiao said indifferently.

    Nangong Fengyun said, ¡°Brother Muye, this little bastard is now on the leaderboard, not to mention he¡¯s a sword cultivator. He¡¯s no weakling. Are you confident you can kill him at the meet?¡±

    Muye Xiao smiled lightly. A sharp aura suddenly erupted from him as he said, ¡°Brother Fengyun, although we are on the same leaderboard, do you really think I couldn¡¯t fight that mid-stage, fifth-level opponent back then?¡±

    Nangong Fengyun narrowed his eyes andughed. ¡°Hoho, it seems I was worried for nothing. Fine, then. We¡¯ll let that little bastard have a few more days of fun. When the timees, Brother Muye will kill him and shock the entire imperial city.¡±

    If news of a ranker on the Earth Leaderboard killing another ranker spread, it would indeed shake the imperial city.

    After all, being on the leaderboard meant that one¡¯sbat strength was unrivaled in the same cultivation level, being nearly invincible.

    Chen Fan and Muye Xiao were both at the fourth level. If Muye Xiao managed to kill Chen Fan, that would highlight Muye Xiao¡¯s strength!

 Chapter 281 - Are You Well, Senior Sister?

    <h4>Chapter 281 - Are You Well, Senior Sister?</h4>

    The trio exited the Martial Market Arena and strolled through the streets.

    ¡°Wang Dongfan, the Bloodlines Martial Meet is scheduled in ten days. I''ll be relying on you," Nangong Wan¡¯er said seriously.

    This iteration of the Bloodlines Martial Meet held particr significance for the Moon Bloodline. A sessful performance would ensure their survival for several more years; otherwise, they would face irreversible decline.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Of course. One should always do their best when entrusted with a task. Naturally, I¡¯ll do whatever I can.¡±

    Chen Fan''s footsteps suddenly halted as they passed the World''s End Pavilion. The pavilion here dwarfed the one in Qingyang County City, resembling a colossal fortress or pce, sprawling over five miles ofnd in grandeur.

    Memories of his first visit to the World¡¯s End Pavilion flooded Chen Fan''s mind. He had brought demon beasts¡¯ furs and other materials to the pavilion to sell. When he saw Qin Yao entering the auction hall, he had followed her and won a Fire Spirit Jade Chalcedony for her.

    Thinking of Qin Yao, Chen Fan felt a deep longing in his heart.

    Qin Yao was drugged in the Qingyang Mountain Range, and Chen Fan had absorbed the poison. They shared an intimate moment in the cave that deepened their connection.

    In the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, Wang Fuchen had taken Qin Yao hostage. Chen Fan willingly confronted him at the Scarlet Cliff to save her; after getting defeated, he had chosen to jump off the cliff. Qin Yao had jumped after him.

    The Dragon Mountain Blessed Land¡¯s powers and the Rain Dragon¡¯s blood had helped Qin Yao awaken her bloodline powers. She was then taken away by the Great Jin Imperial Court experts, leaving only a letter behind.

    ¡°Are you well, Senior Sister?¡±

    Qin Yao¡¯s face appeared before his eyes. Chen Fan¡¯s gaze became iparably gentle; his yearning for her became more intense.

    ¡°Great Jin Imperial Court... Just wait. One day, I¡¯lle to you and personally bring Senior Sister back. If you people dare to bully her, I¡¯ll blow up all of you!¡±

    Suddenly, his gaze turned sharp again.

    In the letter left by Qin Changkong, he had disclosed details about their rtionship with the Great Jin Imperial Court.

    Qin Changkong had escaped from the central continent¡¯s Jin Domain to the eastern continent¡¯s Hong Domain with Qin Yao in tow.

    Their situation was like a y featuring a princess from the Great Jin Imperial Court stranded in the mortal world.

    Knowing the harsh conditions they might face upon returning to the Great Jin Imperial Court heightened Chen Fan''s concern.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er''s voice interrupted Chen Fan''s reflections.

    ¡°What¡¯s on your mind, Big Brother Dongfan?¡±

    Chen Fan snapped back to the present, smiling. ¡°Nothing much, just reminiscing about the past. How about this? I¡¯ve been to the World¡¯s End Pavilion before and traded with them, even attending an auction. Why don¡¯t we go in and see if there¡¯s an auction going on?¡±

    ¡°Sure, sure," Chu Xuan¡¯er eagerly agreed, pping. An auction was an exciting event for a teenager like her.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er would not say no, either. After all, their Moon Bloodline¡¯s future rested solely on Chen Fan¡¯s shoulders.

    Thus, the three walked into the World¡¯s End Pavilion.

    After asking around, they discovered that arge-scale auction was about to start.

    The trio paid a hundred primeval stones each and entered the auction hall.

    The imperial city¡¯s World¡¯s End Pavilion naturally had a much higher entry barrier than Qingyang County¡¯s.

    In Qingyang County, he only had to pay twenty primeval stones as an entrance fee. However, the fee here was five times that. The World¡¯s End Pavilion profited handsomely from the steep entry fee alone.

    Even so, the imperial city¡¯s people did not care about just a hundred primeval stones.

    The auction held in the imperial city''s World¡¯s End Pavilion surpassed Qingyang County''s in scale and opulence.

    Ten massive golden pirs supported the grand venue; each pir was so thick it took two to three adults to encircle it. Countless crystal chandeliers adorned the top, casting a radiant glow with pearls and other elegant elements, illuminating the entire hall.

    The auction hall featured two floors, with the second floor hosting luxurious private cabins and the first floor providingmon seating. Even the basic chairs were crafted from bronze and silver, cushioned with demon beast fur for addedfort. This attention to detail made attendees feel that the hundred primeval stones entry fee was justified, regardless of their sess in winning bids.

    Thanks to Nangong Wan¡¯er and Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s impressive backgrounds, Chen Fan went to the second floor and entered a luxurious private cabin.

    Soon, a maid specifically assigned to serve them delivered the auction catalog.

    ¡°Exceptional Grade-3 treasures, Thousand Year Blood King Lingzhi, upper-profound tier cultivation technique...¡± Chen Fan flipped through the catalog, feeling lost for words.

    Ordinary Grade-3 treasures were worth a hundred thousand primeval stones. The price of exceptional ones was multiple times that.

    A Thousand Year Blood King Lingzhi was even rarer. It contained extremely potent medicinal effects, able to save the martial artist who used it a few years of bitter cultivation.

    People would fight tooth and nail for an upper-profound tier cultivation technique. They were treated as the backbone of a n, even among the prestigious ns in the imperial city, ensuring the n would prosper and thrive.

    Aside from that, there were also many rare and strange things.

    <i>Hmm?</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s eyes trembled, and his heart tensed involuntarily.

    <i>This is the third piece of the remnant map!</i>

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, determined to obtain it at all costs.

    He hade across a remnant piece of a map in the underground vault of the Lon Ancient Imperial City. Initially, he had not paid much attention to it, casually stowing it away.

    The map''s importance became apparent when he obtained the second remnant of the map within the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, located in King Huai of the South¡¯s tomb.

    However, the crucial final piece of the map remained out of his reach until now.

    He had to rely on luck to find the third remnant map; unexpectedly, it appeared in the World¡¯s End Pavilion¡¯s auction.

    <i>I have to get it. It will take me to the treasure. It will help me raise my cultivation and strength. I made the three-year promise a year ago. And although my cultivation has improved rapidly, Duan Jingtian will soon break through to the Divine Nascent realm...</i>

    Chen Fan hadn¡¯t forgotten the three-year promise between him and Duan Jingtian. It was the constant motivation that urged him not to ck off.

    Duan Jingtian was a heavenly prodigy. He wasn¡¯t even twenty-five yet but was already at the eighth level of the Core Formation realm. Ny-nine percent of those at that age were still in the Qigong realm.

    Had Chen Fan not obtained a heavenly opportunity, he wouldn¡¯t have even dreamed aboutparing himself to Duan Jingtian.

    Chen Fan calmed down, not showing any abnormality in his behavior, and continued flipping through the catalog.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er asked, ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, is there any treasure you want?¡±

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°Let¡¯s take a look first. What about you? Is there anything you want?¡±

    The auction had yet to start. The three of them chatted in their private cabin while waiting.

    About an hourter, the auction finally began.

 Chapter 282 - Obtaining the Remnant Map Piece

    <h4>Chapter 282 - Obtaining the Remnant Map Piece</h4>

    A woman, elegantly attired in a red dress reminiscent of a qipao, approached the auction stage with graceful steps, capturing the attention of the onlookers. She was the chief auctioneer of the imperial city¡¯s World¡¯s End Pavilion, Fei Ya.

    d in the form-fitting red qipao, she showcased her well-developed figure, drawing heated gazes from the attendees.

    Wearing a charming smile, Fei Ya covered her mouth as she greeted the crowd.

    Her mature allure ignited a fervor among the audience, heating the atmosphere in the auction hall.

    ¡°Fei Ya seems to grow more charming with each passing day. I¡¯ll be willing to lose thirty years of my lifespan for a night with her.¡±

    ¡°Haha, you can drop that thought. I heard a young master from the imperial city took an interest in Fei Ya. He tried to force himself on her; ultimately, he ended up bringing a disaster to his n. It was suppressed overnight, and he was forced to leave the city.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I¡¯m just saying. Who doesn¡¯t know the World¡¯s End Pavilion is backed by some behemoth? Even those high and mighty sects of our Great Chu Empire cannot afford to offend them.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The auction hall buzzed with spection and hushed conversations.

    The focus soon shifted to the unveiling of the first treasure: a luminous pill exuding an aura of immortality. The pill''s qi manifested into various phenomena, such as the sky, wind, clouds, lightning, dragons, and tigers. Inhaling its fragrance made one¡¯s cultivation stir.

    The elixir presented an astonishing sight¡ªit was dual-toned, ck and white, symbolizing Yin and Yang as each color imed half of the pill''s surface.

    Fei Ya said, ¡°This elixir was found in an ancient site. We''ve identified it as the Yin Yang Longevity Pill through careful study andparison with historical records. Consuming it will increase one¡¯s lifespan by a hundred years, regardless of their cultivation. It stands as one of the premier treasures in this auction, but ites with a substantial price tag.¡±

    A light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    For martial arts practitioners, the cultivation journey involved challenging the heavens and harnessing luck from the heavens to seek the elusive path to immortality.

    Ordinary people would be considered fortunate to live up to eighty years. In contrast, even Qigong realm martial artists could extend their lifespans to at least a hundred years.

    Meanwhile, Yuanfu realm experts could live as long as three hundred years.

    Yet, the path of martial arts was a formidable one, marked by numerous trials and dangers. Advancing through each level required oveing obstacles, making it a challenging odyssey.

    Those with mediocre talent couldn¡¯t progress an inch in their cultivation and could only return to the earth unwillingly.

    An elixir that could increase a person¡¯s lifespan by a hundred years with no drawbacks was an invaluable treasure. It could make people fight tooth and nail over it.

    If a martial artist near the end of their lifespan were to gain an extra hundred years, they could use this opportunity to try to advance their cultivation and further increase their lifespan.

    <i>Such a pity...</i> Chen Fan sighed inside.

    Although he wanted to bid for the Yin Yang Longevity Pill, he knew his chances were slim.

    As expected, excited voices rose and fell as soon as Fei Ya introduced the treasure. In only ten breaths of time, the bid for the Yin Yang Longevity Pill had surpassed a hundred thousand primeval stones.

    There were many prestigious ns in the imperial city. Some ns¡¯ ancestors remained in seclusion, trying to achieve enlightenment to further their cultivation. That way, they could ensure their n thrived for several more decades.

    A n without an expert overseeing it would be devoured cleanly by others at any time in a ce like the imperial city.

    Thus, the ns in a precarious situation spared no effort to secure the Yin Yang Longevity Pill, relentlessly driving its bid price higher.

    After an intensepetition, the Yin Yang Longevity Pill was ultimately sold for the exorbitant price of one million primeval stones.

    Chen Fan felt a tight squeeze in his heart when he heard the price.

    Chen Fan had wiped out the Tan, Liu, and Lin ns and seized Xue Chongtian¡¯s fortune to obtain an enormous amount of primeval stones. Yet, his wealth only amounted to just a little over a million.

    This revtion underscored the deep foundations of the prominent ns within the imperial city.

    The Yin Yang Longevity Pill had brought the auction¡¯s atmosphere to a climax. Treasures were brought out one by one, and the calls for bids rang out unceasingly, but their prices never exceeded the elixir.

    No matter how one calcted it, paying a million primeval stones for a hundred years of lifespan was worth it.

    Chen Fan sat in the private cabin, quietly waiting for the remnant map piece to appear. As for the other treasures, even if he wanted them, he was powerless to bid for them.

    He had quite many primeval stones on him. Including the hundred thousand primeval stones he had obtained as a reward at the Martial Market Arena, he had close to two hundred thousand primeval stones.

    However, it was far from enoughpared to theserge ns of the imperial city.

    Top quality wine, profound tier cultivation technique, Grade-3 treasures, and other amazing items were brought up on stage one by one, drawing the crowd into bidding excitedly.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er and Chu Xuan¡¯er called out bids from time to time. It wasn¡¯t that they wanted the items; they were just having fun bidding.

    Although their identities and backgrounds were extraordinary, the Calm Sun Marquis mansion was only equivalent to a first-rate n. As for Nangong Wan¡¯er, her bloodline was in a precarious situation, so she had no money to waste.

    The entire auction hall buzzed with activity, heated by countless bidding sounds.

    Thepetition was fierce. There were even Core Formation realm auras mixed within. Primeval stones were flowing out freely as they bid.

    Countless precious items, secret manuals, elixirs, treasures, and high-grade martial arts appeared in this auction. It was such an amazing lineup of items, dazzling people.

    Finally, the remnant map piece appeared.

    Although Fei Ya was very eloquent as the chief auctioneer of the imperial city¡¯s World¡¯s End Pavilion, just one piece of a map failed to attract much interest from the crowd.

    Few were willing to bid on it, knowing that, without the other pieces, assembling the map might prove futile. After all, it would be idiotic to spend a fortune on something they couldn¡¯t use.

    The remnant map piece might hold information about some hidden treasure''s location, so those with a hopeful mindset dared to bid. However, their bids were not substantial.

    This happened to benefit Chen Fan, however.

    He already had the other two pieces, so he would have theplete map with thest piece. He couldn¡¯t let thest piece that would lead him to a treasure fall into the hands of others.

    After a few rounds of casual bidding, Chen Fan finally won the remnant map piece for ten thousand primeval stones.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan, why did you bid for this remnant map?¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er asked, puzzled.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I like collecting exotic treasures.¡±

    Soon, a female attendant brought the remnant map piece to their private cabin, and Chen Fan paid the ten thousand primeval stones.

    The auction''s spotlight then shifted to an earth-tier cultivation technique, prompting intense bidding among the prestigious ns of the imperial city. Eventually, the Yang n, one of the four great houses, secured the technique with a winning bid of two million primeval stones.

 Chapter 283 - Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang

    <h4>Chapter 283 - Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang</h4>

    The auction ended, and Chen Fan and the two girls left their private cabin. Coincidentally, they crossed paths with a man and a woman exiting the adjacent cabin.

    The man¡¯s eyebrows were sharp, and his gaze was bright. He was extraordinarily handsome and emanated a sharp sword aura. He seemed like an unrivaled sword, ready to shake the earth when drawn.

    The woman, adorned in a light-yellow long dress with waist-length hair, boasted an excellent figure and a gorgeous oval-shaped face; it looked like she had stepped out of a painting. Despite her cool temperament, she gave others a distant feeling.

    The man and woman paused when they saw the trio.

    ¡°Nangong Wan¡¯er and Chu Xuan¡¯er.¡±

    ¡°Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang.¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, recalling what Nangong Wan¡¯er had said about Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang earlier.

    Renowned as the top genius among the Qin n¡¯s younger generation and the son of Qin Wudi, Qin Jian was a formidable sword cultivator. Rumors had it that he hade across a miraculous encounter. His strength reflected shades of his father''s past brilliance.

    On the other hand, Nangong Qingshuang was the pride of the Nangong n¡¯s Sun Bloodline. She was an absolute beauty, even a few levels above Nangong Wan¡¯er. She had been dubbed the number one beauty of the imperial city.

    Facing Nangong Wan¡¯er, Nangong Qingshuang looked prideful. Casting a cold nce at Chen Fan, she indifferently remarked, ¡°Nangong Wan¡¯er, I heard you¡¯ve been trying to recruit young talents to assist your bloodline. Is he one of them?¡±

    ¡°None of your concern,¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er replied coldly.

    Although they were both geniuses of the Nangong n, they were not on good terms. Thus, their tones toward one another were cold.

    ¡°Hoho, you¡¯re right. It doesn''t concern me, but let me tell you, finding someone won''t change a thing. Your Moon Bloodline will be removed from the main bloodlines in this meet. Your struggles are meaningless,¡± said Nangong Qingshuang, her voice as indifferent and cold as ever.

    ¡°Is that right? Don''t be too confident, or you might end up losing faceter,¡± retorted Nangong Wan¡¯er, unwilling to back down.

    Nangong Qingshuang, unfazed, maintained her indifferent expression and said, ¡°Hoho, I shan¡¯t bicker meaninglessly with you. The Bloodlines Martial Meet is in ten days. The results will speak for themselves."

    With that, she dismissed Nangong Wan¡¯er, turned to Qin Jian, and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, Brother Jian.¡±

    Qin Jian nodded. He did not even spare Chen Fan a nce from start to end, nor did he say a word. His attitude seemed to say that he was above them all. Soon, he and Nangong Qingshuang left side by side.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er could not stand by idly and watch. She cursed, ¡°Nangong Qingshuang is so annoying. She¡¯s just clinging onto Qin Jian. Why is she acting like she¡¯s all that!¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er said to Chen Fan, ¡°Wang Dongfan, I¡¯ve embarrassed myself in front of you.¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°No matter. You don¡¯t need to put yourself under so much pressure, either. Since I promised you, you¡¯ll surely achieve your goal.¡±

    Qin Jian could be said to be a proud son of the heavens and incredibly strong in the eyes of others. However, he was nothing in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The number one genius of the younger generation in the imperial city?

    If ced in the top sects like the Spring Autumn Sect or the Divine Light Sect, he would merely be an elite disciple with his fourth-level cultivation. Plenty of people were stronger than him there.

    ......

    ¡°Someone is willing to assist the Moon Bloodline... How surprising, hoho.¡± Nangong Qingshuang chuckled coldly.

    Qin Jian said inly, ¡°Rest assured. With me around, your Sun Bloodline will take first ce in the Bloodlines Martial Meet. As for the Moon Bloodline... hmph, that bitch Nangong Yue humiliated my father in the past. He didn¡¯t deal with that bloodline back then; this time, I¡¯ll make sure the Moon Bloodline falls into the deepest level of hell!¡±

    ¡°Naturally, I have faith in Brother Jian¡¯s strength, but it''ll be wise to send someone to investigate that kid''s background," suggested Nangong Qingshuang.

    Qin Jian did not object, either. ¡°We¡¯ll do as you say.¡±

    Soon, some details about Chen Fan reached their hands.

    ¡°Hoho, quite unexpected. This Wang Dongfan created quite a stir soon aftering to the imperial city. Winning ten matches in a row and securing the fifty-fourth position on the Earth Leaderboard...¡±

    The information they received was pretty thorough. It even detailed how Chen Fan got to know Chu Xuan¡¯er, how long he had stayed at the Calm Sun Marquis mansion, and even the opponents he faced in the Martial Market Arena.

    Qin Jian showed disdain and said, ¡°He''s at the bottom; hardly worth mentioning. I¡¯ll offer his fresh blood to my sword at the Bloodlines Martial Meet!¡±

    As the young patriarch of the Qin n, Qin Jian¡¯s status was extraordinary, and his cultivation was also outstanding. At eighteen, he had reached the peak of the fourth level and was also ranked on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard.

    To secure that position, he had won thirteen consecutive matches in the Martial Market Arena. He was eighteen ces above Chen Fan, being at the thirty-sixth ce.

    That was the source of his confidence.

    Winning ten and winning thirteen matches consecutively werepletely different concepts.

    ......

    Nangong n, the Moon Bloodline¡¯s manor:

    Nangong Wan¡¯er and a middle-aged man were standing in the main hall. This middle-aged man exuded a powerful aura and an imposing appearance, but he had a trace of worry on his face currently.

    This man was the current Moon Bloodline¡¯s Bloodline Leader and Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s father¡ªNangong Baxiong.

    ¡°Haaa, the meet is just ten days away. I¡¯m afraid our bloodline will face aplete decline this time.¡± Nangong Baxiong¡¯s voice carried a hint of fatigue.

    Over the years, the Moon Bloodline had suffered intense and constant suppression from the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline, with the silent consent of the elders and the higher-ups. This relentless pressure had led to a decline in the Moon Bloodline''s talents, making every step a challenge.

    Although he wanted to restore the Moon Bloodline to its former glory, he was powerless to do anything under the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline¡¯s suppression.

    Although the cause of all this was his younger sister, Nangong Yue, Nangong Baxiong had never resented her.

    He and Chen Zhengqing used to be close friends, yet circumstances had pressed him, rendering him unable to help Chen Zhengqing. The weight of this guilt lingered in Nangong Baxiong''s heart whenever he reflected on those times.

    ¡°Father, no matter the results, we¡¯ve done our best. I¡¯ve found someone to assist us; his name is Wang Dongfan. He¡¯s powerful. Three days ago, he won ten consecutive fights at the Earth ss Battle Pce, and he¡¯s a sword cultivator. Perhaps our Moon Bloodline can make it through this crisis,¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er said.

    ¡°Oh? Wan¡¯er, tell me about this in detail.¡± Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes lit up.

    Thus, Nangong Wan¡¯er told Nangong Baxiong about Chen Fan.

    Nangong Baxiong said, ¡°An ordinary Grade-3 treasure in exchange for a Martial Market Earth Leaderboard ranker¡¯s help. This...¡±

    ¡°Whether he has an ulterior motive or not doesn¡¯t matter, Father. He is our bloodline¡¯s only hope,¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er said.

    Nangong Baxiong nodded and said, ¡°You have a point. Desperate times call for desperate measures.¡±

 Chapter 284 - Wuning Empire

    <h4>Chapter 284 - Wuning Empire</h4>

    Calm Sun Marquis mansion, west wing courtyard:

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged on the bed in his room. A sense of excitement coursed through him as he held the third remnant map piece.

    With the new piece, he finally had theplete map.

    ¡°Hmm? It¡¯s actually not in the Great Chu Empire!¡±

    He could make out mountains, waters, and ins after looking at the lines and marks on the maps. Though the map itself was standard, the hidden treasure was outside the Great Chu Empire''s borders, specifically in the Wuning Empire.

    After Wei Buyu had told him about the structure of the Tianwu Continent, Chen Fan researched and familiarized himself with neighboring empires.

    Comparing the treasure¡¯s location with the information he had acquired, he confirmed that the hidden treasurey within the boundaries of the Wuning Empire.

    The Hong Domain, which the Great Chu Empire was a part of, covered a vastnd area and had thirty-six countries. These countries varied in strength, with the Tianhong Imperial Court reigning as the most formidable, positioned centrally within the Hong Domain.

    The weaker countries were called Empires, and the stronger ones were Imperial Courts.

    Apart from the Tianhong Imperial Court, the remaining thirty-five countries of the Hong Domain were all Empires. Among them were six powerful countries that, while notparable to the Tianhong Imperial Court, were stronger than ordinary Empires.

    As for the other twenty-nine countries, there were stronger and weaker ones, but the disparities were rtively marginal. The Great Chu Empire was among them.

    The Wuning Empire shared borders with the Great Chu Empire. Its overall strength was simr to that of the Great Chu Empire. Between the two empires was the River of Rage, a vast waterway that ran north to south, its relentless waves appearing as if in perpetual fury.

    The River of Rage split the entire Hong Domain into two, flowing through many empires.

    Based on what Chen Fan knew, he woulde across the River of Rage by heading southeast from the imperial city, covering a distance of fifty miles.

    <i>So, the treasure is in the Wuning Empire. That¡¯s surprising. I wonder how the treasure map reached our Great Chu Empire. </i>Chen Fan contemted.

    Considering he had acquired all three remnant pieces within the Great Chu Empire¡¯s borders, shouldn¡¯t the treasure also be within its borders? However, the map indicated that it was in the Wuning Empire.

    Even though he was surprised, it was fine regardless. After all, the two empires were neighbors. Given his speed, he estimated he could reach the Wuning Empire within ten days to half a month, allowing him to uncover the treasure.

    With the treasure''s location determined, Chen Fan began formting a n.

    He put the map away. He would head to the Wuning Empire after the Bloodlines Martial Meet was over and he had met his mother.

    <i>The meet is in ten days. Well, I¡¯ll use this period to raise my cultivation. After all, I still have to visit the Zhao n again. Sixth level doesn¡¯t cut it.</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, and his mind went to work, meticulously devising his next steps.

    <i>Xuan¡¯er said that the Zhao n might have a Core Formation realm expert. However, I only encountered Zhao Hong. He wasn¡¯t even at the peak of the ninth level. It seems there is still an old freak hiding somewhere in there.</i>

    <i>If I go to the Zhao n again and kill one of their higher-ups, this old freak might be pushed into taking action. Core Formation realm powerhouses are no joke. If the old freak makes a move, my life will be in danger. </i>

    Chen Fan was at the sixth level with five illusory primeval vessels. He could contend against someone at the eighth level if he went all out. So, let alone a Core Formation realm powerhouse, he couldn¡¯t even defeat someone at the ninth level.

    Based on Chen Fan¡¯s estimations, he would be no match for a Core Formation realm powerhouse even if he advanced to the seventh level. Still, with the Wings of Rain Dragon, he should be able to escape.

    <i>Hopefully, the Zhao n¡¯s old monster¡¯s level isn¡¯t too high. It¡¯d still be fine if they¡¯re at the first level, but it¡¯d get dangerous if they¡¯re at the second or the third level.</i>

    ......

    Time swiftly psed, with ten days passing in the blink of an eye.

    The early morning dawn broke over the imperial city.

    In the southeast area of the central district, the Nangong n''s opulent mansion, sprawling across several thousand mu ofnd, witnessed the arrival of numerous horse carriages and caravans.

    <i>Screech.</i>

    The wheels, crafted from fine steel, emitted sharp, ear-piercing noises as they rubbed against the ground.

    A caravan with an embroidered white tiger stopped before the Nangong n¡¯s mansion. The curtain of the luxurious carriage was drawn aside, revealing a pair of imposing leather boots that stepped on the ground.

    The owner of the leather boots was a middle-aged man. He stood as straight as a spear, wearing arge cloak sprinkled with gold. Despite the heat from the zing sun, a cool wind enveloped him and the surrounding hundred-step radius.

    This person had practiced his cold-attributed cultivation technique to near perfection.

    This person was from the Tianhai County¡¯s Nangong n, the Bloodline Leader of a branch bloodline, Nangong Chuan.

    After Nangong Chuan alighted, a pair of youths disembarked from the carriage behind his. They were his son and his daughter; both were young talents. Their breaths were long and deep, and their temperaments were extraordinary. Their eyes flickered brightly, reflecting their rich cultivation.

    ¡°Our chance hase, Father. The Moon Bloodline has been declining for the past eighteen years. Their end has finallye. They are no longer fit to be a main bloodline. This time, our branch shall rece them.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re already at the doorsteps. Save your words forter, once we''re inside."

    Nangong Chuan waved his hand, silencing his children''s mocking remarks. As they approached the entrance, he saw two stone lions, towering like massive beasts, and a sharp glint shed in his eyes.

    Simultaneously, another caravan''s carriage stopped, and a middle-aged man emerged. An eerie voice reached them. ¡°Hoho, Nangong Chuan, it looks like you are trying to be a part of the main bloodline.¡±

    The speaker wore armor, which was like jade and silk. It was a rare soft armor, an exceptional treasure that could block the attacks of godly weapons. He oversaw the Nangong n based in Chaolu County City, Nangong You.

    ¡°Nangong You, is your branch challenging ours?¡± Nangong Chuan flicked his finger, unleashing a force shimmering with a crystal-like blue light.

    Instantly, small holes appeared on the stone-paved ground, andyers of ice materialized under the zing sun.

    Wearing the soft jade armor, Nangong You showed a stern expression, looking at Nangong Chuan with a heavy gaze.

    ¡°Your Great Ice Soul Cultivation Technique is impressive. Are you now at the second or the third level of the Core Formation realm? But I¡¯m not afraid of you. Naturally, we will fight for the main bloodline position."

    With a wave of his hand, a torrent of qi blew like the spring breeze, melting the ice on the ground.

    This was the Spring Breeze Vast Qi cultivation technique. It had an upright, rich, and gentle nature, with a robust foundation.

    Another caravan stopped in front of Nangong n''s mansion. A tall, burly middle-aged man exited with spirited steps. He gave off a sense of oppression, and his voice was bright and full of vigor.

    ¡°Hoho, you two are talking about vying for the position here? Move on. Let¡¯s talk about it after we¡¯re in the residence, or you¡¯ll make a fool of yourself if outsiders see you.¡±

 Chapter 285 Moon Bloodlineâ€™s Situation

    <h4>Chapter 285 Moon Bloodline¡¯s Situation</h4>

    Nangong Chuan and Nangong You turned around when they heard the voice. A tall and burly middle-aged man came walking toward them.

    ¡°Nangong Shan!¡±

    Nangong Shan was in charge of the Nangong n in Yandu County. He had boundless strength and immense talent. Rumors circted that he had sessfully broken through to the third level of the Core Formation realm half a year ago. This achievement weighed heavily on Nangong Chuan and Nangong You.

    Nangong Shan walked over confidently and said domineeringly, ¡°Hoho, Nangong Chuan, Nangong You, it seems both of you want to be a part of the main bloodlines. However, you should just forget about it, for that position is ours.¡±

    Nangong Chuan and Nangong You immediately smiled coldly and said, ¡°Nangong Shan, that isn¡¯t up to you. The strength of our bloodlines'' younger generation will decide that.¡±

    ¡°Is that right? My son¡¯s already at the peak of the fourth level, and he even invited an expert to assist him; the expert is on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard. So, what does your bloodline have?¡± Nangong Shan said, his tone carried a hint of disdain and pride.

    Nangong Chuan and Nangong You¡¯s expressions darkened. A leaderboard expert assisting their opponent posed a formidable challenge for their bloodlines.

    ¡°Alright, I won''t waste time engaging in pointless talk. It wouldn''t look good if outsiders saw me. Enter the mansion already. To be a main bloodline, you have to pull the Moon Bloodline down first. How about we three put our differences aside for now and deal with the Moon Bloodline with all our strength? We can decide the future after that,¡± Nangong Shan said.

    ¡°That goes without saying. The Moon Bloodline has been declining, getting overshadowed by the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline. The Bloodlines Martial Meet this time is a huge opportunity for our bloodlines. Of course, we¡¯ll have to seize it. Let¡¯s target the Moon Bloodline and pull them down first,¡± said Nangong You, nodding.

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s head in.¡± Although Nangong Chuan did not explicitly agree with them, his expression had softened. He raised his head high and strode forth, walking into the Nangong n mansion.

    Afterward, more caravans from various branches of the Nangong n arrived at the square. Nangong n experts appeared one after another, and elders who had been traveling returned for the asion.

    Every iteration of the Bloodlines Martial Meet was a huge event and grand asion for the Nangong n. After all, it decided the benefits each bloodline would receive.

    This time, with the Moon Bloodline in a vulnerable position, the various branch bloodlines were well-prepared to seize the opportunity and surpass them at the event.

    Calm Sun Marquis mansion:

    Early in the morning, Chu Xuan¡¯er came to the west wing courtyard and brought Chen Fan along to the Nangong n.

    When they arrived at the Nangong n mansion, Nangong Wan¡¯er awaited them.

    ¡°Come, let me take you to meet Father first.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er led the two and passed by numerous courtyards as if navigating through a maze. They arrived at the Moon Bloodline¡¯s manor and met Nangong Baxiong.

    Meeting him in person, Chen Fan could sense Nangong Baxiong¡¯s deep cultivation.

    ¡°Greetings to the Moon Bloodline¡¯s Bloodline Leader," Chen Fan respectfully greeted with a cupped fist.

    Nangong Baxiong looked at Chen Fan, sizing him up. Soon, his eyes narrowed slightly and flickered for a second. ¡°So, you¡¯re Wang Dongfan. You promised Wan¡¯er to fight for our bloodline?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Wan¡¯er offered you an ordinary Grade-3 treasure as remuneration. Logically speaking, she shouldn¡¯t be able to recruit an expert like you with just that. Why did you agree to her offer?¡± Nangong Baxiong asked.

    Chen Fan said calmly, ¡°There¡¯s no reason behind it. I¡¯m only doing this on ount of Xuan¡¯er. Of course, if Bloodline Leader is ufortable with my presence, I can leave immediately.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er grew anxious from the side.

    If Chen Fan left, their Moon Bloodline would truly have little hope of maintaining their position in the meet.

    ¡°Father...¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. Regardless of the oue, I can give you the Grade-3 sword treasure right now.¡± With a flip of his palm, a sharp sword appeared in Nangong Baxiong¡¯s hand, giving off a chilling light.

    Chen Fan epted the sword without hesitation, stowing it away. ¡°One ought to do their best when entrusted with a task. Rest assured, I will do just that.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Wan¡¯er, bring him to the martial arts arena first. I¡¯ll be right there,¡± Nangong Baxiong said.

    After the three of them left, a light shed in Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes. He muttered to himself, ¡°Is he Yue¡¯er and his child?¡±

    ......

    ¡°In our Nangong n, the Council of Elders has the highest authority. Every family decree must be deliberated by the Council of Elders, reaching a unanimous decision. Essentially, controlling the Council of Elders means controlling the entire Nangong n.¡±

    As they walked, Nangong Wan¡¯er told Chen Fan in detail about some of the Nangong n''s matters.

    ¡°Currently, there are sixteen seats in the Council of Elders. Among them, the Sun Bloodline upies six, the Star Bloodline five, and our Moon Bloodline... only has two. They are for my father and another Core Formation realm elder of our Moon Bloodline. The other bloodlines upy thest three seats.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s tone sounded bitter, and she also had a bitter smile.

    As one of the main bloodlines, the Moon Bloodline held merely two seats in the Council of Elders.

    ¡°Only two seats...¡± Chen Fan frowned. The Moon Bloodline was really in dire straits.

    He already knew that in the Nangong n, only Core Formation realm experts could enter the Council of Elders. The Nangong n boasted no fewer than twenty Core Formation realm powerhouses, a formidable number befitting their status as one of the four great houses.

    ¡°At our peak, our Moon Bloodline also upied six seats. However, ever since the incident with my aunt, constant suppression by the Sun Blood, Star, and other bloodlines weakened our influence. Therefore, we received inadequate resources, resulting in a talent decline within our Moon Bloodline.

    ¡°ording to the Bloodlines Martial Meet¡¯s rules, bloodlines holding seats in the Council of Elders must establish a defense arena. The number of defenders corrtes with the number of seats held. If defeated during the defense, the bloodline automatically loses a seat.

    ¡°This time, you and I will defend the ring for our Moon Bloodline. I¡¯m afraid the other bloodlines will target us. If we fail, the Moon Bloodline will lose its main bloodline status and be demoted to a branch bloodline, extinguishing our hopes of rising again.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    It exined why the Nangong n attached such significance to the Bloodlines Martial Meet. It wasn''t just about the benefits of various bloodlines; it was intricately linked to the highest authority within the Nangong n.

    Earning an additional seat in the Council of Elders meant greater influence in the n.

    ¡°We¡¯re here.¡±

    Before they realized it, the trio arrived at the martial arts arena.

    The Nangong n¡¯s martial arts arena was already filled with a sea of people.

    As one of the great houses of the imperial city, they had many nsmen. Fortunately, the martial arts arena was iparably spacious. It could easily amodate a hundred thousand people.

    The people from the various bloodlines had already rushed back, returning from every corner. The majority were already in the martial arts arena, eagerly awaiting themencement of the Bloodlines Martial Meet.

 Chapter 286 - Nangong Xuan

    <h4>Chapter 286 - Nangong Xuan</h4>

    Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s exnation about her n¡¯s dynamics helped Chen Fan sense the cutthroat nature ofpetition within the Nangong n.

    Large, prestigious ns like these were unlike the tiny Chen n, where unity prevailed and internal power struggles were minimal. The n wholeheartedly did their best for the development of the family.

    The Nangong n had too many branches. Every branch hadpeted and schemed against one another to obtain more resources and authority, hitting when one was down. Familial bonds were absent, reced only by relentlesspetition¡ªunforgiving and harsh.

    ¡°Thepetition in these ns runs deep.¡± Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but sigh.

    Chen Fan had some grievances with the whole Nangong n. However, after talking with Nangong Wan¡¯er, he no longer felt such deep resentment toward the Moon Bloodline. Otherwise, he would not have agreed to fight for them.

    Her bloodline had been on the way out ever since his parents¡¯ scandal. So, he had decided to help them out this one time. It was the least he could do.

    Chen Fan was confident he could achieve this, as he believed that, let alone protecting the Moon Bloodline¡¯s current seats, he could even get them more seats in the Council of Elders.

    ¡°Over the years, the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline have been targeting and attacking us in every Bloodlines Martial Meet. They took four of our seats in thest three iterations.¡±

    Speaking up until here, a trace of anger and helplessness shed across Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s eyes.

    Their enemies weakened them and used their weakened state to steal their seats; it was indeedmentable.

    ¡°Why does your n let the younger generation essentially decide the Council of Elders? Wouldn''t it be better for the council members to undergo the entire attack and defense process?¡± Chen Fan asked, puzzled.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er smiled bitterly and said, ¡°This is where the brilliance of our Nangong n''s ancestors shines. Shifting the pressure onto the younger generation urges them to work harder. Failing to keep their council seats reduces their resources; it maintains a constant sense of tension. That''s how our Nangong n has thrived, producing talents from the younger generation. Of course, my bloodline¡¯s situation is an exception.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded,prehending the wisdom of the Nangong n¡¯s ancestors.

    There was no better source of motivation than pressure. It forced one to get better.

    If Core Formation realm experts in the Council of Elderspeted for the seats, the younger generations might lose motivation and indulge in a pleasure-seeking lifestyle.

    In that case, any n''s prominence would be short-lived.

    ¡°Rest assured. If the opportunity arises, I¡¯ll help your Moon Bloodline to seize a few more seats,¡± Chen Fan said, smiling.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er smiled helplessly, treating Chen Fan''s words as a joke.

    She would be delighted if her bloodline could keep their seats in the Bloodlines Martial Meet. She never even thought of taking more seats.

    How could they attack when they didn¡¯t even have the strength to defend?

    ¡°We¡¯re here.¡±

    As they chatted away, the trio arrived at the martial arts arena. It was already crowded with people, heat rising to the skies.

    The trio instantly attracted numerous eyes, each observer wearing a yful and gloating expression.

    ¡°Hehe, the Moon Bloodline is here. Once their seats are taken at this Bloodlines Martial Meet, they''ll be demoted to a branch bloodline.¡±

    ¡°Many people are eyeing the Moon Bloodline this time. There¡¯s the Star and the Sun from the main bloodlines and even the Mountain, Serene, and River branch bloodlines.¡± [1]

    ¡°The Mountain, Serene, and River branch bloodlines each upy a seat in the Council of Elders. If either could seize the Moon Bloodline¡¯s two seats, they could be a main bloodline.¡±

    ¡°I doubt that''s very likely. After all, the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline are also eyeing those seats. Why would they let a fat piece of meat go? I say the Moon Bloodline will copse here, and the Nangong n will only have two main bloodlines holding even greater authority.¡±

    ¡°You have a point. The Mountain, River, and Serene bloodlines aren¡¯t weak, but whenpared to the Sun and Star bloodlines, they are much inferior.¡±

    ¡°I heard that the Mountain Bloodline recruited a Martial Market Earth Leaderboard ranker to help them take the seat for themselves. I¡¯m feeling very optimistic about them bing a main bloodline.¡±

    ¡°Tch, that¡¯s nothing. The Star Bloodline invited Muye Xiao, another ranker. There¡¯s also the Sun Bloodline, with the Qin n¡¯s number one genius, Qin Jian. He is thirty-sixth on the leaderboard.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people discussed how the situation would unfold. Their words reached Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s ears, causing her expression to darken.

    Chen Fan, on the other hand, didn¡¯t mind it at all. Hepletely ignored the crowd¡¯s gazes.

    ¡°Hmm? Who¡¯s that kid? A helper invited by the Moon Bloodline? He doesn¡¯t seem any good.¡±

    ¡°I heard his name is Wang Dongfan. He¡¯s new in the city, but he obtained ten consecutive wins in the Martial Market¡¯s Arena ten days ago. So, he is also on the leaderboard.¡±

    ¡°For real? How did the Moon Bloodline manage to invite a ranker? Are they going all-in on this fight?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all for naught. A friend of a friend said that Wang guy cowered like a rat and immediately surrendered when Muye Xiao challenged him.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people¡¯s gazes fell on Chen Fan. Some held curiosity, others disyed disdain, and some even showed contempt.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er led Chen Fan and Chu Xuan¡¯er to the Moon Bloodline''s waiting area as they prepared for themencement of the Bloodlines Martial Meet.

    About an hourter, the melodious sound of bells suddenly resounded.

    <i>ng, ng, ng!</i>

    Immediately, the people''s gazes in the martial arts arena became focused. The noisy arena gradually quieted down.

    The sound of something breaking through the wind rang. Next, several figures appeared in the skies directly above the arena. The neers exuded extremely powerful auras, making the people¡¯s hearts palpitate.

    There were seventeen in total; among them, Chen Fan spotted Nangong Baxiong.

    Leading the group was a white-haired elder, appearing old and emitting a seeminglynguid and weighty aura, suggesting the end of his life was near.

    However, Chen Fan could sense that this person¡¯s cultivation was unfathomably deep. It wasn¡¯t any inferior to Wei Buyu¡¯s.

    <i>A high-level Core Formation realm powerhouse!</i> Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed.

    This elder was either at the sixth level of the Core Formation realm or higher. He would be a top expert even in the Spring Autumn Sect and could rise to the authoritative position of Grand Elder.

    The numerous Nangong nsmen in the martial arts arena greeted him respectfully. Even the bloodline leaders looked at him with reverence.

    ¡°Greetings to the Grand Elder.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s our Nangong n¡¯s Grand Elder, Nangong Xuan,¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er said, looking at that aged figure with a deep look of reverence.

    "The Star and Sun Bloodlines have been entangled in a power struggle for years. Without the Grand Elder''s suppression, the Nangong n would have descended into chaos."

    Chen Fan maintained a calm expression.

    While Nangong Xuan was undoubtedly formidable, it didn''t concern him. Moreover, he had heard from Nangong Wan¡¯er that Nangong Xuan gave the order all those years ago to ce Nangong Yue under house arrest.

    The house arrest still hadn¡¯te to an end.

    This alone left Chen Fan with a less-than-favorable impression of Nangong Xuan.

    A faint smile appeared on Nangong Xuan¡¯s face. He nced across the arena, and his aged voice resounded in space.

    ¡°Today marks our Nangong n''s once-every-six-years Bloodlines Martial Meet¡ªa grand asion for our n. I shan¡¯t say much. Let¡¯s begin the martial meet.

    ¡°If you want to keep your seats, demonstrate your capabilities. Otherwise, your seats will go to those who have cultivated hard.¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± The sixteen figures behind him responded in unison. Then, they flew down to their respective bloodlines.

    ¡°The Bloodlines Martial Meet officially begins!¡±

    1. Mountain, Serene, and River bloodlines use the same characters as Nangong Shan, You, and Chuan, their respective leaders. Meanwhile, Moon Bloodline¡¯s leader is Nangong Baxiong, but the bloodline name uses the same character as Chen Fan¡¯s mother, Nangong Yue. In a few chapters we find out Sun and Star Bloodline Leaders'' names have nothing to do with it, however. ?

 Chapter 287 - Pushover?

    <h4>Chapter 287 - Pushover?</h4>

    A multitude of experts had gathered at the martial arts arena.

    In front of the various bloodlines were sixteen white jade tforms. A figure was sitting on each of those tforms. Their cultivation pulsed within them, producing a mighty aura around them. The terrifying pressure from them rushed into the sky.

    These people were all genuine Core Formation realm powerhouses.

    Chen Fan couldn''t help but marvel at the sheer strength wielded by a prominent n.

    Including Nangong Xuan, seventeen Core Formation realm powerhouses had gathered at the martial arts arena. However, this wasn''t theirplete lineup.

    Ancient ns that had been around for several thousand years, like the Nangong n, would have some hidden trumps up their sleeves.

    That was their core strength. The real strength umted by an ancient n over a millennium was unmatched.

    While prestigious ns with just a century of history could momentarily capture attention, they were destined to disappear. Only those with deep roots developed gradually through enduring various challenges could thrive continuously.

    Comparing the Nangong n to the Chen n was almostical. It was no wonder the Nangong n looked down on Chen Zhengqing despite his talent not being inferior to Qin Wudi.

    <i>If our Chen n wishes to have a future, we need to focus on nurturing the younger generation.</i> Chen Fan pondered.

    Despite the significant strides the Chen n had made in the past year, dominating Grade-2 Watermoon City, there was still a substantial gap in their foundations and strength that needed addressing.

    Fortunately, the Chen n had redirected their efforts toward fostering the younger generation, identifying and nurturing those with potential. Things were certainly looking up for them, instilling confidence that they could rival, if not surpass, the Nangong n in the future.

    Chen Fan stopped thinking about his n and redirected his gaze toward the powerhouses on the white jade tforms at the forefront of various bloodlines.

    The Nangong n was divided into four primary factions: the Sun, Star, and Moon main bloodlines, along with the fourth group consisting of various branch bloodlines.

    Chen Fan looked at the Sun Bloodline¡¯s side first, which emanated the strongest qi fluctuations.

    The six white jade tforms disyed a clear hierarchy. The powerhouses sat ordingly to the front. Sitting on the frontmost white jade tform was a man adorned in a golden robe bearing the symbol of the great sun. This man was handsome, and his eyes were shining with a brilliant light. It was like a furnace was revolving inside him, emanating a mighty pressure.

    Next to Chen Fan, Nangong Wan¡¯er followed his gaze and exined, ¡°He is the Sun Bloodline¡¯s leader, Nangong Ling. He is also Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s father. He is regarded as the second most influential figure in the Nangong n, just below the Grand Elder.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. I could tell them from his aura.¡±

    His gaze went past Nangong Ling to those behind him. Among the remaining five, the aura of two people seemed simr to that of Nangong Baxiong. It went to show how powerful the Sun Bloodline was.

    On the Sun Bloodline¡¯s side, Nangong Qingshuang, Qin Jian, and four prodigies of the Sun Bloodline stood with proud expressions. They would defend the arena for the Sun Bloodline this time.

    ¡°Over there is the Star Bloodline. Their leader is Nangong Tong.¡± Nangong Wan¡¯er continued exining the Star Bloodline¡¯s situation to Chen Fan.

    Nangong Tong was wearing a ck robe, exuding a chilling qi. When he blinked his eyes, they were like two ck holes, as if they would swallow all the primeval qi in heaven and earth.

    Nangong Tong wasn¡¯t any weaker than Nangong Ling.

    The Star Bloodline¡¯s five Core Formation realm powerhouses simrly had extraordinary strengths. Aside from Nangong Tong, only one other person had an aura that was on par with Nangong Baxiong.

    On the Star Bloodline¡¯s side, Nangong Fengyun, Muye Xiao, and three other prodigies of the Star Bloodline stood together. Their auras were strong, looking very powerful.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze then reached the branch bloodlines¡¯ side. There were three Core Formation realm powerhouses on this side. Although they were far fromparable to the Sun and the Star bloodlines, they still gave off a majestic aura, as if they could swallow mountains and rivers.

    Eventually, Chen Fan brought his attention back to Nangong Baxiong and the elder apanying him.

    Nangong Baxiong was the Moon Bloodline''s strongest member and their bloodline leader. Chen Fan also knew that he used to be a top genius in the Nangong n during his youth.

    As for the elder, his name was Nangong Qingtian. He was the strongest person in the Moon Bloodline after Nangong Baxiong. Despite showing signs of weariness and fatigue, he remained a leading figure in the Moon Bloodline, reflecting its current state.

    The Grand Elder, Nangong Xuan¡¯s voice resounded once more.

    ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡±

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Powerful auras suddenly rose to the sky from the Sun and the Star bloodlines. Two figures simultaneously descended onto the Moon Bloodline''s defense arena.

    A youth emanating intense heat locked eyes with Nangong Wan¡¯er and offered a faint smile. His voice rang out as he said, ¡°Nangong Qi of the Sun Bloodline seeks advice from Nangong Wan¡¯er of the Moon Bloodline."

    Nangong Qi was a prodigy of the Sun Bloodline. His cultivation was at the peak of the fourth level. Mockery appeared on his face as he looked at Nangong Wan¡¯er.

    In the Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet, each bloodline had a set number of spots for their younger generation in the arena, corresponding to the seats held in the Council of Elders. If a challenged bloodline had more losses than wins by the end, they would relinquish a council seat; if the reverse was true, it constituted a sessful defense.

    Take the Moon Bloodline, for example. If they lost both fights, the Moon Bloodline would lose a seat in the Council of Elders. However, one win and one loss would count as a sessful defense.

    Representing the Star Bloodline, Muye Xiao stepped forward, offering a respectful salute to Chen Fan with a hint of cold amusement in his eyes.

    ¡°Representative of the Star Bloodline, Muye Xiao. I ask for Brother Wang¡¯s advice.¡±

    Many eyes turned toward them, a development expected by the onlookers.

    The Moon Bloodline was in a precarious situation. The other bloodlines were all trying to use this opportunity to take a bite out of them.

    After all, who wouldn¡¯t want another seat in the Council of Elders?

    This iteration of Bloodlines Martial Meet was the best opportunity for that.

    ¡°Nangong Qi versus Nangong Wan¡¯er. Hehe, Nangong Qi has a record of eight consecutive wins in the Martial Market Arena. Nangong Wan¡¯er is definitely no match for him. She will lose for sure.¡±

    ¡°And that Wang Dongfan, although he¡¯s a ranker, his ranking is lower than Muye Xiao¡¯s. Moreover, he immediately admitted defeat against Muye Xiao ten days ago. Who knows if he¡¯ll surrender immediately today as well?¡±

    ¡°The Moon Bloodline will lose their position as a main bloodline in two battles.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people from the crowd looked over with gloating expressions.

    Meanwhile, the junior members of the Moon Bloodline wore expressions of despair.

    ¡°It¡¯s over. Our Bloodline is finished.¡±

    The constant suppression led to their bloodline receiving limited resources, so their juniors were the weakest among the various bloodlines. Currently, only Nangong Wan¡¯er maintained a somewhat presentable level of strength. However, she paledpared to figures like Nangong Fengyun and Nangong Qingshuang. Even against Nangong Qi, she fell slightly short.

    On the other hand, they did not understand their helper¡¯s strength well. They only knew that Chen Fan entered the Earth Leaderboard ten days ago and was the lowest ranker. He had extraordinary strength, but they did not think he was a match for Muye Xiao.

 Chapter 288 - You Canâ€™t Withstand Even A Single Slash

    <h4>Chapter 288 - You Can¡¯t Withstand Even A Single sh</h4>

    The Moon Bloodline¡¯s defense arena was split into two.

    Muye Xiao stood with his clothes billowing in the wind, hands sped behind him, casting a mocking look at Chen Fan. ¡°Wang Dongfan, you ran away when I challenged you ten days ago. Are you nning to flee once more?"

    ¡°Run away? Hehe, That''s quite likely.¡±

    ¡°Muye Xiao is an elite disciple of the Divine Light Sect on the cusp of advancing to the fifth level. He would be a core disciple then. His future is limitlessly bright.¡±

    "I heard that Nangong Wan''er also tried to recruit Muye Xiao, but he outright rejected her... modest offer."

    ¡°......¡±

    The onlookers were talking andughing, looking like they were watching a show.

    After this event, the Moon Bloodline would never be able to return to its former glory.

    Chen Fan faced Muye Xiao with a cool detachment, choosing silence over words.

    ¡°Wang Dongfan, I''m willing to offer you a chance to survive. After all, this is a real fight. The slightest carelessness can put your life at risk, and you''d have only yourself to me if you die.

    ¡°You don¡¯t want to be the shortest-lived ranker in history, do you?¡±

    Muye Xiao bbered on, ¡°Kneel, kowtow to me, and admit defeat. I can spare your life. Otherwise, it¡¯d be nothing but wishful thinking to want toe out in one piece. What do you think?¡±

    ¡°You talk too much,¡± Chen Fan said inly,ughing on the inside.

    ¡°I have the strength to back it up. You probably think you are on the same level as me now that you are on the Earth Leaderboard, but let me be clear: we are not.¡±

    Muye Xiao wore his arrogance openly, a dangerous aura emanating from him. ¡°Let me set the record straight. Yes, I also have a ten-match win streak. And yes, I conceded after ten moves. However, it wasn¡¯t because I was outmatched but because I saw no point in continuing. I could''ve easily pushed that to eleven or even twelve victories.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know how difficult it is to win ten rounds consecutively at the arena, not to mention eleven or even twelve. You''re simply no match for me; I''ve never considered you one.

    ¡°I¡¯ll count to three. Ignore this warning at your own risk, as I don¡¯t mind turning you into a corpse. I''m more than willing to use the blood of a ranker to make my name shine even brighter in the Imperial City."

    He did not wait for Chen Fan to reply and immediately started counting down.

    ¡°One!¡±

    ¡°Two!¡±

    ¡°Three!¡±

    As soon as he finished, Chen Fan finally said, ¡°One sh!¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Muye Xiao was perplexed, failing to understand Chen Fan''s meaning or intention. His expression fell as he said, ¡°What are you talking about?

    ¡°I¡¯ll repeat it. To defeat you, I only need one sh!¡±

    Chen Fan straightened his posture, looking tall and mighty and giving off an imposing air. ¡°Muye Xiao, you know why I surrendered quickly in the arena? Because I¡¯ve never thought anything of you. In my eyes, you¡¯re nothing but an ant.¡±

    ¡°Brat, you¡¯re too arrogant!¡±

    Muye Xiao became thoroughly enraged at Chen Fan¡¯s contemptuous words. The mes of anger burned inside him.

    Suddenly, he shouted, ¡°Holy Light Combat Art, Sky Destruction!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Muye Xiao seemed to channel the might of gods or demons, his presence overwhelming like a towering mountain or a vast sea. Every wisp of his aura could oppress beasts and subdue demons. Upon closer inspection, his cultivation far surpassed ordinary martial artists at the peak of the fourth level.

    His attack, charged with fury, seemed capable of shifting the skies and obscuring the sun and the moon with its ferocity.

    ¡°What a powerful aura. As expected of an elite genius of the Divine Light Sect and a ranker.¡±

    ¡°Wang Dongfan has really stirred the ho''s nest by provoking Muye Xiao. Death seems to be the only oue."

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Putting him in the same league as Muye Xiao is likeparing the earth to the heavens.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The surrounding Nangong n¡¯s juniors sensed Muye Xiao¡¯s powerful aura and narrowed their eyes.

    Though they hailed from a prestigious lineage with high status and pride, the Divine Light Sect stood on a higher pedestal than the Nangong n. Naturally, they treated Muye Xiao as equals and admired his great strength.

    However, just as Muye Xiao¡¯s aura peaked and he was about tounch his attack, Chen Fan made his move.

    In an instant, Chen Fan became a blur, disappearing from view. From where he vanished, a sword light burst forth, majestic and luminous.

    Unlike Muye Xiao''s overwhelming aura, Chen Fan''s was pure and righteous. His attack was as straight and true as a sword, embodying a clear conscience.

    The onlooking crowd did not sense any fierceness or sharpness from this streak of sword light. All they felt was integrity, passion, grandeur, and magnificence, reminiscent of a deity or the immutablews of nature.

    Invisible yet undeniably present, this was the essence of the sh unleashed by Chen Fan.

    Under this sword, all schemes and murderous aura were dismantled and disappeared.

    It was akin to a refreshing spring breeze blowing across heaven and earth, melting the winter snow and injecting life into all matter.

    The moment the sword light manifested, it shone brilliantly, akin to the fleeting beauty of fireworks or a meteor across the sky¡ªephemeral yet unforgettable, leaving asting impression of awe.

    And then, as quickly as it appeared, the sword light was gone.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    After the sword light faded, the powerful aura that Muye Xiao had amassed shattered instantly. He flew back, and there was a long bloody gash on his chest, dripping with blood. He had been nearly disemboweled.

    Meanwhile, all his primeval force had been shed apart. He looked like a mess, with nearly half of his hair cut off, leaving him partially bald. The once handsome figure was now a subject of ridicule.

    The surroundings fell silent in an instant.

    The crowd was in utter disbelief, their eyes wide with shock, struggling to understand how Chen Fan had so decisively defeated the mighty Muye Xiao with a single sh.

    In the Star Bloodline¡¯s defense arena, Nangong Fengyun''s smug expression was now frozen in astonishment.

    In the Sun Bloodline¡¯s arena, Nangong Qingshuang and Qin Jian were like a golden couple, a perfect pair, standing at the frontmost. Their indifferent expressions had also transformed into shock.

    Meanwhile, on the Moon Bloodline¡¯s side, the looks of despair had turned into shock.

    <i>Whoa!</i>

    Soon, the martial arts arena burst into amotion.

    ¡°How is that possible? Muye Xiao was nearly disemboweled in a single sh. Heavens, I¡¯m not seeing things, am I? That¡¯s Muye Xiao we¡¯re talking about!¡±

    ¡°What sword technique was that earlier? Why do I feel like it¡¯s not a sword technique?¡±

    ¡°That guy... was he pretending to be weak?¡±

    ¡°If Wang Dongfan can defeat even Muye Xiao, then during this Bloodlines Martial Meet, perhaps the Moon Bloodline...¡±

    In that instant, spection and intrigue lit up many faces.

    The crowd had looked at Chen Fan with contemptuous gazes, but many people¡¯s expressions had changed after this sh. At the very least, their gazes no longer showed any contempt.

    Had they been on the receiving end of that sh, survival would have been... less than likely.

 Chapter 289 - A New Dawn for the Moon Bloodline

    <h4>Chapter 289 - A New Dawn for the Moon Bloodline</h4>

    Chen Fan shocked everyone with his sh.

    ¡°How is that possible?¡±

    Muye Xiao¡¯s eyes trembled violently, ignoring the burning pain from his wounds. Only one thought crowded his mind: how did Chen Fan injure him with just one attack?

    Yet, a burst of burning rage soon filled his heart.

    <i>I am the number one elite disciple of the Divine Light Sect! I am a ranker! How the hell did he nearly disembowel me with a single sh!</i>

    It was humiliating. Utter humiliation!

    ¡°Ah! Little bastard, I¡¯ll kill you!¡± Muye Xiao¡¯s anger reached the skies.

    Moments earlier, he had been arrogant before the crowd, demanding that Chen Fan kneel and plead for mercy. Yet, Chen Fan pushed him back with a single sh. He had lost all face; he was furious.

    ¡°Dawn of Light!¡± Muye Xiao roared, unleashing his cultivation. A blinding light erupted from him. As he employed the Radiance Cultivation Technique, he looked like a child of light.

    Bringing his palms together, he channeled the sun''s rays. The intangible sunlight materialized in his hands, flowing like a fluid, gathering substance.

    ¡°Sunlight de, condense!¡±

    The countless rays of sunlight took shape in his hands, transforming into an incredibly dazzling de capable of blinding onlookers.

    ¡°As expected of a top sect. Such marvelous cultivation technique, turning formless sunlight into substance and condensing it into a weapon."

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It looks like Wang Dongfan''s attack has made Muye Xiao step up his game and go all out. Earlier, he was only injured by Wang Dongfan because he was a bit careless, underestimating his opponent. After all, how can a ranker be that weak?¡±

    ¡°A fight between two rankers of the leaderboard is bound to be quite a spectacle."

    ¡°I have to admit, Wang Dongfan¡¯s strength is something else. He doesn¡¯t have any background to speak of, yet he has such incredible strength.¡±

    "He must have stumbled upon some stroke of luck. Otherwise, lone cultivators wouldn''t be this formidable, no matter how talented they are."

    ¡°You have a point...¡±

    The onlookers exchanged thoughts as they watched Muye Xiao unleashing his full power.

    ¡°Little bastard, surrender your life!¡± Muye Xiao roared furiously, wielding the Sunlight de. He moved like a light ray; one second, he was swinging his light de away from Chen Fan, and momentster, he was bringing it down on Chen Fan.

    However, with a flick of his sword, Chen Fan connected his sword tip to the edge of the light de. A sharp noise rang out, and Muye Xiao had to take three steps back.

    <i>ng!</i>

    ¡°You¡¯re too weak!¡± Chen Fan said, his eyes devoid of any emotion. Stepping forward, he thrust his sword with lightning speed, reaching Muye Xiao''s face instantly.

    ¡°Burst of Light!¡± Muye Xiao shouted angrily. His luminous aura intensified dramatically, resembling a sun. Even Chen Fan had to squint due to the blinding light, momentarily slowing his movements.

    ¡°Five Finger Lock!¡± Since Chen Fan was affected by his light, Muye Xiao immediately swiped his w forward. Light gathered, and his fingernails grew to three feet long, capable of piercing through steel. His w was reaching for Chen Fan¡¯s head, attacking iparably viciously.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Fan immediately recovered. He channeled his primeval force to his eyes, making Muye Xiao¡¯s light curtain ineffective. Then, he flicked his wrist. His sword let out a humming noise, shing toward Muye Xiao¡¯s wrist.

    Muye Xiao immediately withdrew his arm; simultaneously, his light de shed down violently.

    <i>Pish!</i>

    Chen Fan shoved his palm forward, attacking through the air. Numerous streaks of force st out from his punches, blocking the area. The streaks of force were like cannonballs, bombarding the de of light and producing rumbling noises. A brief momentter, the de of light could no longer withstand the impact and broke apart.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Muye Xiao''s expression turned vicious. He did not expect Chen Fan to be so powerful and troublesome. Biting the tip of his tongue, he spat a mouthful of fresh blood that transformed into a blood arrow above his head. Channeling his cultivation, it suddenly burst apart, enveloping him in a mist of blood, leaving a pungent odor in the air.

    Within the blood mist, the power of Muye Xiao''s attacks doubled. Using the Five Finger Lock, his iron hook-like nails, formed from the sun rays, grew further to five feet long. As they scratched against the ground, deep grooves immediately marked the arena.

    ¡°Bloodshed Qigong!¡±

    "Bloodshed Qigong!" Someone in the crowd swiftly recognized the technique. "Muye Xiao is resorting to the Bloodshed Qigong! This technique twists one¡¯s meridians, igniting their sea of qi and dantian and damaging their cultivation. People usually only use it in life or death situations."

    ¡°Seriously? Is Wang Dongfan that strong? Even Muye Xiao is no match for him?¡±

    ¡°Looks like we¡¯ve all judged them wrongly. The Moon Bloodline has recruited someone incredible as a helper this time. With his assistance, they might just be able to maintain the two seats they have left on the Council of Elders."

    ¡°That might not be true. Wang Dongfan is indeed powerful. However, Muye Xiao¡¯s strength is now double what it used to be. He should be able to fight against even experts at the middle stage of the fifth level. That kid Wang Dongfan will lose.¡±

    Muye Xiao¡¯s eyes were surging with killing intent.

    He had assumed an easy victory over Chen Fan but found himself unexpectedly pushed back, resorting to the self-damaging Bloodshed Qigong.

    ¡°Go die, you little bastard!¡±

    A furious roar rang out in the arena. Muye Xiao leaped down fiercely. His clothes billowed, and his fingers radiated a terrifying aura, trying to restrict Chen Fan''s movements.

    Despite the demonic onught from the enraged Muye Xiao, Chen Fan remained unfazed. He stood emotionlessly as the powerful wind swept toward him, and Muye Xiao attacked like a crazed demon beast.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan raised his arm and thrust his sword fiercely, piercing through space. Sword qi erupted as he skillfully wielded his sword and sliced through Muye Xiao''s nails. Thetter''s anguished screams filled the air.

    Although Muye Xiao''s nails were condensed from the sun''s rays, Chen Fan had sliced through Muye Xiao''s palm. His sword qi infiltrated Muye Xiao''s body, disrupting his meridians.

    An emotionless sentence came from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. With a swish, he rose like a fairy, sweeping past Muye Xiao¡¯s side.

    ¡°Since you were aiming for my life, there¡¯s no way I can let you live. Die.¡±

    A dull noise echoed, and a cloud of dust appeared in the arena a momentter.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Muye Xiao had fallen and crashed onto the ground. A bloody line could be seen on his neck, beheaded by Chen Fan.

    Silence.

    The crowd in the martial arts arena fell into silence once more.

    Muye Xiao was dead!

    Chen Fan had killed Muye Xiao, the forty-sixth ranker on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard.

    The entire imperial city would be shaken.

    The martial artist ranked at the bottom of the leaderboard had killed the ranked forty-sixth. It was simply terrifying.

    At this time, a simr sound also rang out on the other side.

    Nangong Qi struck Nangong Wan¡¯er with a palm strike, making her spew blood and fall off the stage.

    However, the crowd wasn¡¯t interested in that. They were all focused on Chen Fan.

    Soon, the silence was broken as discussions erupted.

    The juniors of the Moon Bloodline did not feel discouraged by Nangong Wan¡¯er¡¯s defeat. Instead, their eyes were all shing with anticipation.

 Chapter 290 - Seizing a Seat

    <h4>Chapter 290 - Seizing a Seat</h4>

    One win and one loss!

    The oues defied the expectations of the observers, as no one had expected the Moon Bloodline to win even one fight.

    True to their expectations, Nangong Wan¡¯er had lost, but Chen Fan had won. He had imed his victory by ying a ranker, shocking the crowd.

    The spectators, particrly the influential figures from the Sun and the Star bloodlines, now regarded Chen Fan with newfound respect.

    Chen Fan''s disyed strength surpassed all expectations.

    Being a ranker meant that one had outstanding skills among peers at the same cultivation level, possessing the strength to even fight those above his level. However, Wang Dongfan¡¯s strength had simply been terrifying.

    When Qin Jian had seen Chen Fan nearly disembowel Muye Xiao, he was mildly surprised at best, only raising his eyebrows in response. However, now his expression was dark.

    Qin Jian was the thirty-sixth fighter on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard. He had won that ranking by winning thirteen consecutive matches, earning the moniker of the next Qin Wudi.

    He truly understood the caliber of skill possessed by those on the board.

    He was confident that he could defeat Muye Xiao, but to kill him...

    A sharp light shed across Qin Jian¡¯s eyes.

    He was a sword cultivator. He had inherited the legacy of a senior sword cultivator, earning him the title of the Little Sword God in the imperial city due to the unparalleled sharpness of his de.

    Chen Fan was a fellow sword cultivator. Qin Jian¡¯s blood was heating up, wanting topete with him to see whose sword was sharper and faster.

    With a fiery spirit, Qin Jian remarked, ¡°This is fine. Killing Muye Xiao demonstrates your formidable strength. If I can kill you, it would mean I¡¯m even stronger. I would be invincible within the fourth level!¡±

    The ancient sword at his back seemed to resonate with its owner''s intent, emitting a hum as if eager to be unsheathed and thirsty forbat.

    ¡°One win and one loss, good! Our Moon Bloodline¡¯s seats in the Council of Elders are safe!¡±

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s great, wonderful!¡±

    ¡°The heavens are not bringing our Moon Bloodline to an end. Wang Dongfan is our bloodline¡¯s great savior!¡±

    ¡°Haha! Let¡¯s see who still dares to covet our bloodline¡¯s position!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Tears of excitement welled up in the eyes of the Moon Bloodline juniors.

    On the white jade tform, Nangong Baxiong and Nangong Qingtian¡¯s gazes fell onto Chen Fan. A glimmer of astonishment shed in their eyes, apanied by a subtle rxation of their furrowed brows.

    ¡°We won, that¡¯s great.¡±

    Nangong Wan¡¯er consumed a Recovery Elixir. Standing below the ring, she looked at Chen Fan, feeling like he seemed infinitely tall and big. Although she had lost, she had a smile on her face.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan is so amazing. Even Muye Xiao is no match for him.¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s face was filled with shock.

    Now, no one dared to look down on Chen Fan.

    Everyone¡¯s gazes were on Chen Fan. They watched as he leaped off, heading toward the Star Bloodline¡¯s ring. Afternding, he looked at Nangong Fengyun and the other defenders.

    ¡°This is...¡±

    Many people narrowed their eyes, their hearts skipping a beat.

    ¡°Is he challenging the Star Bloodline?¡±

    ¡°Heavens, will he challenge the Star Bloodline alone and seize a seat in the Council of Elders for the Moon Bloodline?¡±

    ¡°Even Muye Xiao died. Can Nangong Fengyun and the others stop him?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The gazes of numerous Nangong nsmen were captivated.

    The various bloodlines had nned to target the Moon Bloodline together to seize their seats. However, Chen Fan thwarted their n.

    Now, he had descended upon the Star Bloodline¡¯s defense arena. He was going to challenge them.

    Nangong Fengyun and the other defenders¡¯ expressions were very ugly. A trace of panic could be seen deep in their eyes.

    Meanwhile, a light shed in the eyes of the higher-ups of the Star Bloodline, including Nangong Tong.

    ¡°Who will step out first?¡± Chen Fan said, looking at Nangong Fengyun and the three other defenders indifferently.

    Their hearts twitched violently, and their gazes became evasive. No one came forward.

    ¡°You, then.¡± Chen Fan casually pointed at one of them, and that person¡¯s expression immediately darkened.

    Surrendering immediately would not only cost him personal honor but also tarnish the reputation of the entire Star Bloodline. Faced with no alternative, he reluctantly stepped forward.

    As a genius of the Star Bloodline, he had received top-notch nurturing, boasting powerful cultivation and wielding a high-grade weapon. He unleashed his cultivation, and he was weak by no means. He was definitely outstanding within the fourth level.

    Even so, Chen Fan only used three strikes to defeat this person.

    ¡°Next, you!¡±

    Chen Fan, uninterested in banter, promptly summoned another challenger. Three strikester, the oue was settled.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn now!¡± Chen Fan''s gaze fixed upon Nangong Fengyun.

    The Star Bloodline had five seats in the Council of Elders. ording to the rules, Chen Fan had to defeat only three individuals to wrest a seat away from them. Nangong Fengyun stood as the third and strongest opponent.

    As Chen Fan pointed his sword at Nangong Fengyun, thetter''s expression soured. Despite his internal conflict, he reluctantly stepped forward. He understood that it was his duty to represent the Star Bloodline; he refused to concede defeat outright.

    Suddenly, a voice was transmitted into Chen Fan¡¯s ears. ¡°This battle, you must lose!¡±

    Chen Fan was momentarily surprised. He lifted his head to meet Nangong Tong''s gaze on the white jade tform, responding with a cold smile.

    <i>Threatening me?</i>

    <i>Then I¡¯ll collect some interest from your Star Bloodline first!</i>

    Seeing Chen Fan¡¯s cold smile, Nangong Tong¡¯s eyes erupted with an icy killing intent.

    If Nangong Fengyun were to lose, Chen Fan would secure three victories, resulting in the Star Bloodline losing a seat in the Council of Elders. There was no way Nangong Tong would be happy to see that. Therefore, he resorted to direct voice transmission, ordering Chen Fan to lose this match intentionally.

    Chen Fan''s cold smile in response made his stance clear.

    <i>Damn it, he dares to go against my will. Very well, I¡¯ll let you have your way for a little longer!</i> Nangong Tong snorted coldly inside. His gaze toward Chen Fan grew increasingly colder.

    The members of the Moon Bloodline couldn''t help but feel their hearts tighten as they watched Chen Fan prepare for the third fight.

    The stakes were high¡ªif Chen Fan emerged victorious, they would get to keep their seats and gain another one in the Council of Elders seats.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er, despite her confidence in Chen Fan, couldn''t suppress the nervous pounding of her heart.

    Their concerns wereid to rest as Chen Fan triumphed in the third fight against Nangong Fengyun. Despite being well-trained, possessing various methods and treasures, and being formidable, Nangong Fengyun sumbed to Chen Fan''s prowess.

    This victory meant that Chen Fan had secured all three wins in his challenge against the Star Bloodline, effectively iming a seat in the Council of Elders on behalf of the Moon Bloodline.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    Immediately, the entire Moon Bloodline erupted with resounding cheers.

 Chapter 291 - Broken Sword

    <h4>Chapter 291 - Broken Sword</h4>

    ¡°Haha, he won! He won three rounds! Our bloodline finally took a seat from the Star Bloodline!¡±

    ¡°Wonderful! Wonderful! Truly a day for celebration for our bloodline!¡±

    Every member of the Moon Bloodline was overjoyed, dancing and celebrating.

    Nangong Wan''er was moved to tears, her eyes glistening with emotion.

    Her bloodline had been suppressed by the Sun and Star Bloodlines for years, losing to their people in the previous meets. But now, thanks to Chen Fan, they had pulled off a victoriouseback.

    While the Moon Bloodline celebrated, the atmosphere among the Star Bloodline was starkly differentplete silence as they faced losing one of their seats. The air was heavy, and faces, whether of the young members or elders like Nangong Tong, were filled with frustration and anger.

    They had lost three matches in a row, four if one counted Muye Xiao¡¯s match.

    Chen Fan had single-handedly trounced their bloodline¡¯s best talents.

    ¡°Damn it, that wretched little bastard!¡±

    ¡°Curses, how dare he foil our Star Bloodline¡¯s grand n! We cannot let him live!¡±

    ¡°We must kill him. He''s made us lose a seat in the Council of Elders. Unforgivable!"

    The five powerhouses of the Council of Elders, including Nangong Tong, looked on with cold, murderous intent in their eyes. If looks could kill, Chen Fan would have long since died.

    Chen Fan, aware of their murderous intent, remained unfazed. Would they dare to make a move against him right here?

    Of course, Chen Fan also knew that Nangong Tong and the others would target him if he left the Nangong n.

    However, he had no intention of lingering in the imperial city. When this matter was over, and he met his mother, he would leave immediately and go to the Wuning Empire.

    While the crowd was murmuring among themselves, Chen Fan made another move.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan descended on the Sun Bloodline¡¯s defense arena.

    The crowd¡¯s gazes froze again.

    Was Chen Fan setting his sights on the Sun Bloodline now, nning to seize a seat from them as well?

    The onlookers gasped, their eyes wide with shock.

    The Sun Bloodline was recognized as the most powerful within the Nangong n, boasting thergest representation in the Council of Elders and producing a steady stream of young prodigies.

    Most importantly, the Sun Bloodline had recruited Qin Jian as their helper!

    Qin Jian was Qin Wudi¡¯s son and the Young Patriarch of the Qin n. He ranked thirty-sixth on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard, ten ces higher than Muye Xiao. His record of thirteen consecutive victories had left the entire imperial city in awe.

    The Moon Bloodline spectators were stunned to see Chen Fan challenge the Sun Bloodline.

    For them, securing a seat from the Star Bloodline was an unexpected victory; they hadn''t dared to dream of wrestling more seats away from others. Being able to hold onto their current three seats would be enough.

    However, Chen Fan had unexpectedly challenged the Sun Bloodline.

    ¡°This...¡±

    The members of the Moon Bloodline felt speechless. Nangong Wan¡¯er looked worried.

    Could Chen Fan defeat Qin Jian after ying Muye Xiao?

    Qin Jian''s reputation in the imperial city was unparalleled, mirroring the early achievements of his father, Qin Wudi. He was even called the current number one genius of the imperial city''s younger generation and formed half of a "golden couple" with Nangong Qingshuang.

    Moreover, Qin Jian had inherited the legacy of an ancient sword cultivator, earning him the nickname Little Sword God.

    Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes also shook slightly, but he did not object to it, allowing Chen Fan to do as he wished.

    Even if he lost, their Moon Bloodline would not lose anything.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    When Chen Fan entered the ring, Qin Jian came forth straightaway. He unleashed his sword intent, and it rushed to the skies.

    The air was filled with sweeping sword qi, resounding with whistling noises.

    ¡°You¡¯re actually this strong; how truly unexpected. But this works out for me," Qin Jian dered, his eyes gleaming with an almost tangible sword light as he stared down Chen Fan. "Defeating you will only serve to boost my reputation."

    ¡°Cut the nonsense. Draw your sword.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice was as indifferent as ever.

    Qin Jian narrowed his eyes, seemingly angry. He said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re a sword cultivator too. Well, fine. In my eyes, your sword art is disorganized and crude. I¡¯ll show you what true sword art looks like," Qin Jian retorted, his voice icy.

    With that, the sword sheathed on his back soared into his grasp, gleaming with a chilling light, as his overwhelming sword intent enveloped the arena.

    <i>Shing!</i>

    The kind of cold iron used to forge his precious sword was unknown. The patterns on the sword''s de were like snowkes, and the words ¡®Proud Snow¡¯ were engraved on it.

    Chen Fan could tell at a nce that Qin Jian¡¯s Proud Snow was a divine weapon.

    ¡°When I was thirteen, I inherited an ancient sword cultivator¡¯s legacy in the Northern Ice ins, which included a sword manual and Proud Snow. Today, you will witness the true essence of the Way of the Sword!"

    Proud Snow rushed out; instantly, the surroundings became a wintry scene filled with snowkes, its sword qi formidable and chilling.

    Qin Jian, at that moment, embodied the epitome of a peerless swordsman, standing alone amidst the snow, his demeanor detached and noble, as if no one in the world could match his skill.

    Sword light flourished. With a sh, it shed down, sealing heaven and earth in ice.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan made his move unhurriedly. Sword qi spread everywhere, shing violently.

    Qin Jian demonstrated an exceptional mastery of sword techniques with Proud Snow. The sword''s edge danced, twisted, and turned, executing unpredictable andplex movements. He employed a vast array of techniques¡ªchopping, shing, slicing, pressing, stabbing, picking, boring, and whirling, each action seamlessly flowing into the next, concentrating his power into focused strikes.

    As soon as he disyed his sword art, the crowd realized that Qin Jian was indeed worthy of his title as the Little Sword God.

    Chen Fan''s approach in the duel was straightforward, wielding his sword, Autumn y, to unleash powerful strikes of sword light that shed with Qin Jian''s sophisticated attacks, sparking upon impact.

    Suddenly, Qin Jian roared as sword light shot out in all directions.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    A thick sword light fell violently. Chen Fan held his sword horizontally to defend against it. Although he managed to destroy this sword light, the stress proved too much for Autumn y, resulting in a loud snap as the Grade-2 sword broke in two.

    ¡°His sword broke!¡±

    ¡°A sword cultivator without a sword is like a tiger without a w, defenseless!¡±

    ¡°Wang Dongfan is in danger. There¡¯s nowhere he can run under Qin Jian¡¯s superb sword art.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Whispers and murmurs spread, with members of the Sun and the Star bloodlines barely concealing their satisfaction, hoping to see Qin Jian kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°Damn it, his sword broke! He¡¯s done for!¡±

    The Moon Bloodline¡¯s people were also shocked at the sight, a sense of doom settling among them.

    Qin Jian did not continue. Instead, he stood there, looking at Chen Fan, and said indifferently, ¡°Wang Dongfan, your sword shattered. You''re unarmed and unable to challenge me. Admit defeat. I won¡¯t stoop so low as to bully you when you are without a sword.¡±

    How could Chen Fan possibly be his match when he was without a sword?

    He wouldn¡¯t feel any sense of aplishment defeating such an opponent, either.

    Chen Fan looked at the broken Autumn y in his hand. He shook his head helplessly, though it did not surprise him.

    Qin Jian¡¯s Proud Snow was at least a Grade-3 treasure. So, the eventual breaking of Autumn y, after repeated shes, was to be expected.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan threw away the broken Autumn y. With a flip of his hand, he retrieved the ordinary Grade-3 sword Nangong Baxiong had given him in advance¡ªNightless.

 Chapter 292 - Ancient Sword Technique

    <h4>Chapter 292 - Ancient Sword Technique</h4>

    Chen Fan pulled out Nightless with a swift motion, giving the de a quick flick before aiming it directly at Qin Jian. "Let''s pick up where we left off.¡±

    ¡°Phew, luckily, he has a spare sword.¡±

    "Wait a minute, that sword... it looks familiar. Haven''t I seen it somewhere before?"

    ¡°It¡¯s Nightless. It¡¯s the only Grade-3 sword in our Moon Bloodline¡¯s treasury¡ªNightless.¡±

    "I heard Nangong Wan''er traded an ordinary Grade-3 treasure to invite Wang Dongfan. Totally worth the trade!"

    ¡°......¡±

    The members of the Moon Bloodline sighed in relief when they saw Nightless, their faces lighting up with smiles once more.

    Who would have thought that by merely exchanging an ordinary Grade-3 treasure, their Moon Bloodline would secure such a formidable ally for the Bloodlines Martial Meet?

    Let alone an ordinary Grade-3 treasure, an exceptional Grade-3 treasure, or even a Grade-4 treasure would have beenpletely worth it.

    A seat in the Council of Elders was simply too important to the current Moon Bloodline. It would significantly increase their influence within the n, promising them a brighter and more respected future.

    But securing the seat was just the tip of the iceberg. More than anything, Chen Fan had lifted their lineage from the brink of despair.

    Qin Jian was slightly taken aback. Then, a cold smile quickly appeared on his face. His sword intent blossomed again, and he said coldly and sharply, ¡°Hoho, this is perfect. Defeating you when you''re unarmed would have been utterly pointless.¡±

    Qin Jian swung into action, his sword intent sweeping out in all directions. With each swing of his sword, sword qi spiraled and twisted, creating vortexes that merged to form a devastating tornado of sword qi.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Known as the Little Sword God, Qin Jian truly lived up to his name. None from the younger generation within the imperial city could rival his sword mastery.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression remained calm as he executed the Nine Swords of Wind Demon. Streaks of sword light shed and swept around him, whistling and cutting in all directions, producing violent collision noises.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Their swords met in fiercebat.

    ¡°Your sword techniques are mere child¡¯s y. Eat this, Cold Night!¡±

    Unable to secure an upper hand despite his relentless assault, Qin Jian''s expression hardened as he changed tactics. Proud Snow suddenly paused. The swirling sword qi shifted, directing the flow of qi and bending light around it, plunging the arena into darkness. Qin Jian disappeared within the veil of darkness.

    In this pitch-ckness, one couldn''t even see their own hands!

    Qin Jian''s Cold Night was an overwhelming force that seemed to bend nature itself, distorting light and plunging opponents into a void where sight, hearing, and even instinct failed.

    Cold Night was the terrifying sword technique he had inherited from that ancient sword cultivator from the Northern Ice ins.

    In the days of old, a remarkable sword cultivator existed, known only as the Nameless Sword God. For thirty solitary years, he studied the mysteries of the sword on the Northern Ice ins, ultimately crafting an unparalleled set of techniques known as the Nameless Sword Technique.

    When Qin Jian was merely thirteen, he had ventured out for training and fortuitously stumbled upon the very spot where the Nameless Sword God had met his end. From there, he soared to the skies and achieved what he had today.

    Chen Fan instantly felt a sense of danger. Given his capabilities, the sense of danger was minuscule, but it was surprising nheless.

    In the ten days of free time he had while waiting for the Bloodlines Martial Meet to start, he had utilized quite a lot of the Fountain of Life, progressing his cultivation further. He was now at the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm.

    Although he was now suppressing his cultivation to the fourth level, even someone at the fifth level shouldn''t pose a threat to him.

    Yet, Qin Jian¡¯s Cold Night had set off rms in Chen Fan. The danger came not from his raw strength or cultivation level but from his masterful sword technique.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart stirred. This sword technique was likely how Qin Jian obtained thirteen consecutive victories and imed the thirty-sixth spot on the leaderboard.

    Qin Jian had the strength to kill someone at the fifth level.

    Now robbed of his senses, Chen Fan felt a faint glint of cold light piercing through the air, akin to a sliver of light breaking the darkness of the night.

    Reacting swiftly, Chen Fan thrust Nightless toward the source of the light.

    Qin Jian''s cold voice resonated, amplifying the force behind the attack.

    ¡°Flying Star!¡±

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan was calm and steady, being extremely thorough and careful. He caught a glimpse of the elusive Proud Snow in the darkness, moving around. It shed with Nightless before instantly disappearing again.

    rity returned to the whole area.

    Chen Fan stood quietly on the ground. His clothing had been torn open, revealing a bloodied cut on his shoulder inflicted by Proud Snow. Earlier, he failed to counter Qin Jian¡¯s earth-shaking sword technique once.

    Of course, Chen Fan did this intentionally to prevent exposing himself.

    Qin Jian also stood a short distance away, looking at the blood stain on his sword. He furrowed his brow slightly. Then, he raised his head and said, ¡°You''re the first among the younger generation to sustain only a minor scratch from my technique."

    Qin Jian hadn¡¯t anticipated this. Even after executing two styles of the ancient Nameless Sword Technique, he only managed to rip Chen Fan¡¯s clothing and scratch his skin.

    He had once used this to kill a bandit at the fifth level.

    In the imperial city, even other sword cultivators couldn¡¯t withstand his attacks when he executed his sword technique.

    ¡°Is this for real? Qin Jian used the Nameless Sword God, yet he didn¡¯t manage to kill Wang Dongfan!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, is Wang Dongfan so powerful that even Qin Jian can¡¯t bring him down?¡±

    The nearby crowd was astonished.

    ¡°Impressive. What''s the origin of your sword technique? I¡¯m sure you didn''t create it. Your sword art is not bad at all, but you couldn¡¯t have created these moves. Their names are short, and the techniques have an obvious ancient style to it,¡± Chen Fan said calmly.

    ¡°I have to say, you are very perceptive.¡±

    Qin Jian¡¯s eyes flickered and said, ¡°This set of sword techniques is a peerless technique created by the ancient Nameless Sword God. There are seven forms: Cold Night, Flying Star, Following Wind, Waning Moon, Shocking Cloud, Lawless, and Heavenless. I¡¯d only used Cold Night and Flying Star. You received those two moves from me with only a minor scratch. I have to admit you are really something. Within the younger generation and the same cultivation level, you¡¯re probably only beneath me.¡±

    Qin Jian¡¯s tone carried a trace of arrogance as if it was very honorable for Chen Fan to receive his recognition.

    ¡°Although you only received some superficial injuries, the sword qi entered your body. You must be feeling it right now. I¡¯ll tell you the truth. Once the sword qi of this set of sword techniques enters someone, they can''t expel it. They can only wait for their deaths unless I save them.

    ¡°The sword qi will sh with your dantian within three-quarters of an hour and blow up. Kneel right now, kowtow, and surrender; you will still have a way out. Otherwise, not even the buddhas can save you once the time is up!¡±

    Qin Jian¡¯s cold voice resounded in space, sending chills into the hearts of those who heard him.

    <i>What a powerful sword technique!</i>

 Chapter 293 - Executing Five Moves Consecutively

    <h4>Chapter 293 - Executing Five Moves Consecutively</h4>

    ¡°It¡¯s over.¡± The expressions of Nangong Wan¡¯er and the other members of the Moon Bloodline immediately sank.

    Chu Xuan¡¯er''s face went pale.

    ¡°Great!¡±

    ¡°Haha, good, kill that little bastard!¡±

    The Sun and the Star bloodline¡¯s members revealed exhrated smiles on their faces.

    ¡°Nice sword technique.¡± Chen Fan seemed unperturbed by Qin Jian''s threats. He stoodposed, wielding his sword with an air of serenity.

    The incredible sword techniques that the Nameless Sword God had developed over thirty years in the Northern Ice ins showcased his mastery. Despite not being a sword cultivator himself, Chen Fan couldn''t help but admire him.

    ¡°What? The sword qi isn''t affecting you?"

    Qin Jian¡¯s expression abruptly changed. The wounds on Chen Fan¡¯s skin had started closing. All the blood disappeared; soon, his skin was clean and fresh. His aura rose steeply, bing twice as strong. He emanated an aura akin to powerful ocean waves crashing against the shore.

    <i>Affected by the sword qi?</i> Chen Fan snickered inside.

    Qin Jian wanted to blow up his dantian with a mere wisp of sword qi?

    That was simply a joke!

    He could refine anything with his Heaven Seizing Furnace, not to mention a mere wisp of sword qi. However, he didn¡¯t reveal that fact out loud.

    ¡°Go ahead, unleash those other sword techniques. Let''s see the prowess of the sword techniques crafted by an ancient sword god!"

    Chen Fan stood with his sword in hand, focused and calm. He was one with his sword, waiting for Qin Jian to make his move.

    He eagerly anticipated Qin Jian''s next moves, particrly curious about thetter five techniques. Just how powerful could thirty years ofprehension make a technique?

    Chen Fan stood still, quietly exuding more pressure than he would have had he attacked. Yet, this simple action had a profound undertone.

    Nangong Baxiong, Nangong Ling, Nangong Tong, and the others narrowed their eyes. A light flickered in their eyes as they looked at Chen Fan.

    <i>Hmm?</i>

    ¡°This guy... such conceptualization...¡± Nangong Baxiong''s heart trembled slightly.

    ¡°That little bastard has some skills. His level of conceptualization surpasses Qin Jian''s," noted Nangong Ling, feeling a growing hostility in his gaze toward Chen Fan.

    Being Core Formation realm powerhouses, their martial arts mastery and insight were exceptional. They quickly recognized that Chen Fan, at this moment, seemed to merge seamlessly with his sword¡ªa state rumored to be the pinnacle for sword cultivators.

    Being one with the sword did not simply refer to the sword being an extension of the limbs of the martial artist¡ªit meant aligning with thews of nature. Achieving this state implied having the sword within one''s heart, allowing one to use anything in heaven and earth as a sword, even a humble flower or leaf.

    Though Chen Fan had not fully reached the pinnacle of being one with the sword, they could see a glimpse of it.

    Chen Fan seemed to have be a different person. His sword qi, intent, art, and move all ascended to a higher level. It was as if Qin Jian¡¯s attack had sparked enlightenment, propelling Chen Fan into the realm of an extraordinary sword genius.

    Sensing this aura, Qin Jian suddenly trembled.

    He had started practicing the sword when he was eight. After training for ten years, he obtained the Nameless Sword God¡¯s inheritance and was dubbed the Little Sword God. His sword art was unrivaled among his peers.

    However, he could also see that Chen Fan was showing signs of bing one with the sword, which was why he had trembled involuntarily.

    All sword cultivators dreamed of reaching that level, and it had actually manifested in Chen Fan.

    <i>How is this possible! I''ve dedicated a decade to mastering the sword and even inherited the legacy of an ancient sword god. I am even nicknamed the Little Sword God, for goodness¡¯ sake! I am destined to reach the level of the Nameless Sword God with that technique. Yet, why is he the martial artist bing one with the sword and not me?! </i>

    Qin Jian was roaring in his heart. His expression was contorted with intense jealousy, a feeling that consumed him and overshadowed reason. He wanted to cut down Chen Fan to ensure no one surpassed him in the way of the sword, especially not Chen Fan.

    Qin Jian''s jealousy erupted like an unrestrained river, overwhelming his senses.

    ¡°Cold Night, Flying Star, Following Wind, Waning Moon, Shocking Cloud...¡± he muttered, unleashing a torrent of sword intent. The entire arena transformed into a realm of des, engulfed in an endless sea of sword qi.

    He executed five moves in one go, each being an absolute killing move. Qin Jian''s sword qi tore through the arena. The once pristine floor crumbled, and the ground was sliced apart.

    Sensing the overwhelming killing intent around him, Chen Fan narrowed his eyes. His own sword qi was thrown into chaos by the force of Qin Jian''s onught.

    Chen Fan channeled all his energy into his sword technique.

    Confronted with the relentless onught of five consecutive sword techniques, Chen Fan focused solely on wielding Nightless. Wind demons pulsed at the tip of his sword, roaring in space.

    In the critical moment, Chen Fan''s sword technique unexpectedly ascended to a new level. The Nine Swords of Wind Demon exhibited a remarkable surge in power.

    <i>ng, ng, ng, ng, ng!</i>

    Nightless, swung amidst the distorted light of the Cold Night, shed repeatedly with Proud Snow.

    With each move, Chen Fan seemed to track Qin Jian''s movements and could find where Proud Snow was, shing with it, causing sparks to fly everywhere.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan realized just how unpredictable and unmatched these sword techniques were.

    Cold Night and Flying Star were formidable. Following Wind, when employed, allowed sword qi to infiltrate the night like a gentle rain, silently moistening everything it touched.

    Before Chen Fan could even sense the sword qi emerging, the sword¡¯s sharp light was at his throat, threatening to end his life.

    Waning Moon created the illusion of an exceptional swordsman leaping into the sky, cleaving the moon apart and transforming the full moon into a waning one.

    The final move, Shocking Cloud, immersed Chen Fan in an endless sea of clouds, where waves rolled and surged around him.

    Chen Fan could not help butment inside. If his cultivation were truly at the fourth level, he would have only had a fifty percent chance of winning even after emptying his entire arsenal.

    Chu Tiange simrly used to be at the fourth level, but he couldn¡¯t have defeated Qin Jian.

    Admittedly, Qin Jian definitely was unrivaled at the fourth level. Even a martial artist at the fifth level would find it difficult to fend off Qin Jian¡¯s attacks.

    s, Chen Fan was at the seventh level. He had limited his cultivation, but his insight and state of mind were far superior nowpared to when he was at the fourth level.

    ¡°Break!¡± A cold voice came from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. He thrust Nightless as if tearing through the heavens. All the surrounding sword qi instantly rolled back.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    Qin Jian¡¯s sword moves ended abruptly, sensing an overwhelming strength pressing toward him. A terrifying storm of sword qi swept over like the sea. His expression sank as he retreated, nearly falling off the defense arena. He looked at Chen Fan with a slightly paleplexion.

    ¡°You... How is that possible?¡± Qin Jian''s eyes flickered incredulously, his voice trembling.

    He had used five killing moves consecutively. Each move had the power to kill a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert. Five moves were enough to even cage someone at the fifth level. Yet, Chen Fan had destroyed all of it with a simple stab.

    How was that possible?

    Apart from Qin Jian, the Nangong n¡¯s members were also staring wide-eyed with their mouths agape, failing toprehend what had just happened.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression was calm as he said, ¡°Where are the two remaining moves, Lawless and Heavenless? Use them.¡±

 Chapter 294 - Little Sword God? Trash!

    <h4>Chapter 294 - Little Sword God? Trash!</h4>

    Chen Fan had benefited greatly from this fierce exchange of sword techniques.

    Everyone thought Chen Fan was a sword cultivator, but the truth was that he had only ever practiced two sword arts. So, his level of mastery in the way of the sword was shallow.

    He had gained a lot of experience in the way of the sword by fighting Qin Jian. The powers of his sword art had increased by a level, benefiting him greatly.

    Qin Jian was an exceptional swordsman at the fourth level; he had showcased formidable skills honed through years of immersion in the ancient sword technique. Each of his sword moves painted a distinct scenery, embodying an array of sword intent capable of delivering lethal strikes.

    The five ultimate moves¡ªCold Night, Flying Star, Following Wind, Waning Moon, and Shocking Cloud¡ªleft asting impression on Chen Fan, marking his body with their incredible power.

    Chen Fan was concealing his true cultivation level, so he was effectively bullying the weak. Had they been at the same cultivation level, he couldn¡¯t have dealt with Qin Jian¡¯s attacks so easily.

    This experience made Chen Fan realize that his sword mastery was still shallow. He needed to spend a lot of time training in it.

    Qin Jian was an excellent grinding stone for Chen Fan, helping him sharpen his sword art quickly.

    In cultivation and swordsmanship, there was no hierarchy¡ªonly the one to reach the top first was superior.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s true cultivation level far surpassed Qin Jian, in terms of attainment in the way of the sword, he was far fromparable to Qin Jian. He improved at an absurd pace by humbling himself and maintaining a learning attitude.

    In just a short while, his sword technique had be more refined, giving off the air of someone who had trained in it for ten years.

    Of the ancient sword techniques, Qin Jian had only employed five, reserving two¡ªLawless and Heavenless. Their names hinted at a disregard forw and natural morality, setting them apart from the previous moves. One could expect their power to be extraordinary. They were trump cards, absolute ultimate moves.

    Eager to witness the full extent of Qin Jian''s repertoire, Chen Fan focused his mind and calmed down. s, Qin Jian did not use them, leaving him feeling disappointed.

    Although Qin Jian had cut Chen Fan¡¯s clothing, sliced his skin open, and forced sword qi into him, Chen Fan still looked unharmed.

    Qin Jian seemed to have realized that Chen Fan was treating him like a grinding stone. He was enraged, and his chest rose and fell. His chest rose and fell, looking a little sulky.

    The esteemed Young Patriarch of the Qin n, known as the Little Sword God, felt humiliated to be used as a mere grinding stone by an unknown youngster.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!¡±

    His eyes betrayed faint traces of blood veins, reflecting the burning rage within him.

    ¡°Wretched little bastard, how dare you use me as a grinding stone! Good, very good! Do you know this is an insult to me? That you¡¯re courting death? Fine, I¡¯ll grant your wish. I¡¯ll use your fresh blood to advance to the fifth level; I will reach a whole new level. Consider your death an honorable sacrifice!

    ¡°Lawless and Heavenless never see the light of day or blood. Once they do, the world will suffer a great disaster. A river of blood will flow, and millions will turn into corpses. Since I mastered those two moves, I¡¯ve never used them to kill anyone. Today, I shall use you as a tribute! I won¡¯t hesitate even if I have to turn into a demon!¡± [1]

    Qin Jian started moving.

    ¡°What?¡± Chen Fan narrowed his eyes. He knew those two moves were no ordinary techniques, but they could surprisingly turn their user into a demon. Instead of instilling fear, this revtion only fueled Chen Fan''s curiosity.

    ¡°Die! Lawless!¡±

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Qin Jian¡¯s eyes instantly turned utterly bloodshot. With a sudden motion, he raised his sword, and his aura underwent a drastic transformation. It seemed like he had be an underworld spirit, impossible to see or touch. A wave of demonic qi gathered in the surroundings.

    Demonic qi swirled in the surroundings, causing an eerie darkness to settle, muffling the light of the sun and the moon. Wails of spirits echoed in the air.

    Even the divine sword, Proud Snow, was tainted by the spirit''s qi, defying heavenly authority, naturalws, and everything in between.

    Lawless!

    Suddenly, Qin Jian disappeared as if he had slipped into the void. He seemed to traverse the void, slipping between space and time, weaving through the past and the future.

    A sword descended, shattering allws of nature, aiming to take Chen Fan''s life.

    Chen Fan¡¯s psyche was ridiculously strong, yet it was shaken, leaving him disoriented. He saw the sky crumbling and the earth cracking. An invisible power seemed to rein in his thoughts, keeping them from working.

    This was Lawless¡ªa sword technique that defied all naturalws.

    Yet, Chen Fan quickly regained hisposure, effortlessly swinging Nightless. The sh against Qin Jian''s Proud Snow produced a terrifying aura.

    <i>Ding, ding, ding...</i>

    The sh between Nightless and Proud Snow echoed continuously, creating a cacophony reminiscent of falling rain and howling winds. Thousands of sword strikes were exchanged in rapid session.

    Qin Jian¡¯s every strike was fended off, unable to breach Chen Fan''s defenses, as if a domain was formed where nows of nature could reach it.

    ¡°Heavenless!¡± Qin Jian cried. He bit the tip of his tongue and spewed out a mouthful of blood mist that tainted the surrounding sword qi with a crimson hue. The powers of his sword techniques skyrocketed, shaking heaven and earth.

    Proud Snow shimmered with light as sword qi coalesced intorge stars, ascending into the sky before cascading down like raindrops, concentrating on the sword''s tip.

    Piercing through the sky with a single sword, regardless of thews of nature and morality.

    The might of this sword could extinguish all stars.

    The expression of this sword could make all life extinct.

    On the sword tip was the power that could rob one¡¯s consciousness; it could snatch Chen Fan¡¯s body and leave him immobile. The impervious domain that defied allws crumbled like paper before it.

    Green smoke emerged as countless wind demons dissipated amidst anguished wails.

    ¡°Impressive! Impressive!¡±

    Chen Fan was right in the middle of Lawless and Heavenless. His heart and mind were shaken, eximing in praise for that ancient Nameless Sword God. These two terrifying sword techniques he had created had truly lived up to his name as the sword god.

    However, a fierce light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, like two suns in the darkness, lighting up the cold night, dispelling the darkness and illuminating the world.

    ¡°Open!¡±

    The sword light around Chen Fan transformed into fine rain, his sword qi sweeping out in all directions.

    Streaks of sword light shot out continuously. Like a deting balloon, the powers of Lawless and Heavenless instantly broke apart.

    Chen Fan¡¯s instantaneous counterattack contained an overwhelming force, like a monstrous wave that rolled without end, epassing countless miles.

    <i>Pfft, pfft, pfft!</i>

    Qin Jian stepped back repeatedly while spewing blood, unable to steady himself. He soon lost his footing and fell off the defense arena.

    Chen Fan rolled up his arm; as he did, the tumultuous sword qi in the arena seemed pacified by his touch, returning to a calm state.

    Sword in hand and back to Qin Jian, Chen Fan said with an even voice, ¡°You¡¯ve lost.¡±

    ¡°Ah...! You damned beast, I¡¯ll kill you!¡±

    Qin Jian quickly leaped forth, turning into a blur of light, pouncing at Chen Fan with a twisted, hideous expression like an evil spirit. He thrust Proud Snow toward Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    The spectators'' expressions changed drastically.

    Sensing the imminent danger, Chen Fan''s expression turned cold. He swiftly turned around, wielding Nightless to fiercely chop down at Qin Jian, aiming to cleave him in two.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Nangong Ling¡¯s expression sank. He directly grasped at the air and said, ¡°Stop it!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    An invisible force struck Chen Fan, sending him flying backward as he spewed blood. Simultaneously, Qin Jian was seized by an unseen hand and swept away.

    Chen Fan felt his qi and blood roiling intensely, an invisible force wreaking havoc within him. Swiftly, he activated the Heaven Seizing Furnace, suppressing and refining the intrusive force.

    He stood up and nced at Nangong Ling coldly, secretly noting this in his heart. Earlier, Nangong Ling was seemingly trying to save Qin Jian, but the truth was that he wanted to heavily injure Chen Fan and even cripple him if possible.

    Chen Fan stored this betrayal in his memory, vowing to settle the score when his cultivation reached greater heights.

    <i>A Core Formation realm powerhouse is indeed terrifying. </i>Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered. That same cold gaze shifted onto the pale Qin Jian, and he said coldly, ¡°Little Sword God? Trash!¡±

    1. Could also mean experience qi deviation. It¡¯s unclear for now ?

 Chapter 295 - Closing Curtain

    <h4>Chapter 295 - Closing Curtain</h4>

    ¡°Wang Dongfan!¡±

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan!¡±

    When Nangong Wan¡¯er and Chu Xuan¡¯er saw Chen Fan flying out of the defense arena with blood streaming out of his mouth, their expressions darkened. They jumped toward him.

    Nangong Wan¡¯er quickly took out a Recovery Elixir and shoved it into Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. Concerned, she asked, ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    Chen Fan turned his head, spat a mouthful of bloody saliva, and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Simultaneously, on the side of the Moon Bloodline, Nangong Baxiong rose from his white jade tform. His aura surged wildly, giving off a suffocating pressure that stirred the winds and clouds. He red fiercely at Nangong Ling and said, ¡°Nangong Ling, you¡¯ve crossed the line!¡±

    Given Nangong Ling''s strength, he could have easily saved Qin Jian, but he chose underhanded tactics, sending Chen Fan flying and injuring him.

    ¡°You''re exaggerating, Nangong Baxiong. I just lost control for a bit. Besides, do you think that kid would have survived if I had malicious intentions?¡±

    Nangong Ling¡¯s expression was indifferent, his voice t.

    ¡°You...¡± Nangong Baxiong''s expression turned ugly, and his aura grew stronger.

    Chen Fan had fought for Nangong Baxiong¡¯s bloodline, not to mention the suspicions he had about Chen Fan¡¯s true identity. Nangong Ling had ambushed someone like that. Who would dare lend support to the Moon Bloodline in the future if there were no repercussions for such actions?

    "Enough with the ''you, you, you.'' I admit I lost control for a moment in my eagerness to save Qin Jian and couldn''t manage my strength. Take this top-grade Recovery Elixir; it should fully heal him." Nangong Ling waved his arm, and a small jade bottle sailed toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan epted the jade bottle, locking eyes with Nangong Ling with an icy stare. He chuckled coldly and said, ¡°Hoho, as expected of the Sun Bloodline¡¯s leader. Impressive!¡±

    Chen Fan emphasized the word ¡°impressive,¡± a touch of mockery ying on his face.

    Nangong Ling narrowed his eyes, his gaze sharp as a de.

    The Grand Elder, Nangong Xuan, finally spoke up.

    ¡°Alright, Wang Dongfan, do you still want to continue your challenge?¡±

    Nangong Xuan was brushing aside the matter. Nangong Baxiong¡¯s expression darkened. Just as he was about to voice his concerns, Chen Fan''s voice rang out.

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m going to continue my challenge. Since the leader of the Sun Bloodline did me such a huge favor, I don¡¯t want to let him down by not taking a seat from them.¡±

    The members of the Sun Bloodline erupted in chatter. Nangong Ling''s gaze turned frigid.

    ¡°Wang Dongfan, you...¡± Nangong Baxiong¡¯s expression changed again.

    Nangong Ling had shamelessly struck him in secret. Even though Nangong Wan¡¯er had immediately fed Chen Fan a Recovery Elixir, it could only marginally alleviate his injuries.

    Now, Chen Fan wanted to continue. Did he have a death wish?

    ¡°No need to worry. I¡¯m fine. It''s time to put an end to this tedious game.¡± Chen Fan waved his hand. He had Nangong Wan¡¯er and Chu Xuan¡¯er leave the arena. Next, he looked at Nangong Qingshuang and the others with a fierce gaze.

    ¡°You first.¡± Chen Fan pointed at Nangong Qingshuang with his sword.

    She was Nangong Ling¡¯s daughter. He would first take back some interest from Nangong Qingshuang.

    Nangong Qingshuang stepped forward, each step strengthening the cold intent surrounding her. Frost formed under her feet, making cracking noises. The surrounding temperature instantly plummeted.

    Chen Fan ignored her cold intent. His figure blurred, and sword light shed.

    The sharp sword light spread, growingrger in Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s field of vision. She felt a stinging pain on her skin, and her mind swayed.

    Earlier, Nangong Ling had transmitted a message to her, assuring that Chen Fan, weakened by his injuries, posed no real threat.

    However, Chen Fan''s attack surpassed all expectations. It didn''t resemble the attack of someone severely injured; in fact, he seemed entirely unharmed.

    On the white jade tform, Nangong Ling¡¯s pupils shrunk violently, and his expression darkened.

    Chen Fan was in perfect condition. How was that possible?

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    A brief momentter, Nangong Qingshuang flew out, spewing blood. Herplexion was ghastly pale, her aura in disarray. Nangong Ling¡¯s gaze became iparably icy, wishing he could kill Chen Fan on the spot.

    ¡°Next, you!¡±

    Chen Fan ignored Nangong Ling¡¯s icy killing intent. His cold gaze settled on a youth.

    This youth met Chen Fan¡¯s cold gaze and immediately felt like his heart and his mind were frozen. Even someone blind could tell that the youth was terrified. He was so terrified that his legs were shaking; Nangong Ling¡¯s expression became even uglier.

    One stroke.

    Two strokes.

    Three strokes.

    Chen Fan defeated the next three defenders after Nangong Qingshuang with a single move each.

    Including Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang, Chen Fan had already defeated five of them.

    Aplete victory!

    He had seized a second seat from the Sun Bloodline.

    ¡°That damnable little bastard!¡±

    Nangong Ling looked at Chen Fan with a sinister gaze, killing intent brewing in his eyes.

    The fact that Chen Fan emerged unscathed from his sneak attack surpassed all his expectations.

    ¡°Haha, this is wonderful. Our Moon Bloodline now has two more seats in the Council of Elders. Hahahaha...¡±

    ¡°Four seats! We now have four seats in the council! The Sun and the Star bloodlines will no longer suppress us!¡±

    ¡°This is all thanks to Wang Dongfan. He pulled our Moon Bloodline out of the abyss with his lonesome strength, seizing a seat from the Sun and the Star Bloodlines. Look how ugly the expressions on them are.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The members of the Moon Bloodline were ecstatic.

    Even Nangong Baxiong and Nangong Qingtian couldn''t help but wear faint smiles.

    The oues of the Bloodlines Martial Meet had defied everyone''s expectations.

    Everyone had expected the Moon Bloodline to bepletely suppressed in this meet, but things had taken a turn unexpectedly. Thanks to Chen Fan''s unparalleled strength, they swept through everyone, securing a seat from both the Sun and the Star bloodlines.

    In stark contrast to the jubtion among the Moon Bloodline members, the members of the Sun and the Star bloodlines looked as if their parents had died.

    Their pre-event strategy¡ªsuppress the Moon Bloodline thoroughly¡ªhad been ruined by an outsider. Many gazes toward Chen Fan brimmed with hatred and killing intent.

    And those gazes weren¡¯t just from the members of the Sun and the Star bloodlines. Even the others, like the Mountain, River, Serene, and other bloodlines, had icy gazes.

    He had single-handedly disrupted their carefullyid ns. The Moon Bloodline obtained two more seats in the Council of Elders, giving them the same amount of influence as the Star Bloodline. How were they supposed to suppress them in the future?

    Perhaps the Moon Bloodline would rise up again from today onward?

    The Grand Elder¡¯s gaze also fell on Chen Fan, looking somewhat surprised.

    <i>Perhaps the heavens are unwilling to drive the Moon Bloodline to their end... </i>Nangong Xuan said in his heart.

    He did not belong to any bloodline. He was in a neutral position, and all his decisions were made for the development and growth of the Nangong n.

    The Moon Bloodline had sessfully freed themselves from the suppression; perhaps it was decided by the heavens. Even though it involved an outsider like Chen Fan, he chose to remain silent, letting the unfolding events dictate the fate of the bloodlines.

    ¡°Alright, this iteration of Bloodlines Martial Meet shall end here. The Moon Bloodline has taken a seat in the Council of Elders from both the Sun and the Star bloodlines. Nangong Ling, Nangong Tong, from today onward, your respective bloodlines will see a reduction in council seats. Nangong Baxiong, your Moon Bloodline will have two more. Correspondingly, the resources your Moon Bloodline receives will also increase...¡±

    After saying many things, Nangong Xuan announced the end of the Bloodlines Martial Meet and left.

    Chen Fan, surrounded and escorted by members of the Moon Bloodline, happily returned to their manor, preparing for a grand celebration.

    Nangong Ling, Nangong Tong, and the others¡¯ gazes stared fixedly at Chen Fan¡¯s departing back with murderous intent.

 Chapter 296 - Mother and Son Meet

    <h4>Chapter 296 - Mother and Son Meet</h4>

    Late at night, in a small, exquisite courtyard of the Moon Bloodline¡¯s manor:

    Chen Fan sat on a stone bench, his eyes flickering. ¡°The Bloodlines Martial Meet hase to an end. What¡¯s next is...

    ¡°Tonight, the members of the Moon Bloodline are in a celebratory mood, letting their guard down. This is the perfect opportunity for me to locate Mother.¡±

    A brilliant light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Although many people of the Moon Bloodline had offered him toasts earlier, Chen Fan remainedpletely sober.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Immediately, his figure blurred and seamlessly melded into the night like a wisp of green smoke.

    Having probed Nangong Wan''er earlier, Chen Fan had discovered the existence of a forbidden area within the Moon Bloodline''s mansion. Few were aware of its purpose, not even Nangong Wan''er herself.

    Chen Fan spected that this forbidden area was likely used to hold his mother, Nanyong Yue, under house arrest.

    The Grand Elder, Nangong Xuan, issued the order to put Nangong Yue under house arrest, barring her from stepping out and receiving any visitors.

    Therefore, the n¡¯s newer generation had only heard about the mysterious figure called Nangong Yue and how she was responsible for the Moon Bloodline¡¯s decline.

    However, they have no knowledge of her appearance or current situation.

    Chen Fan donned an aura-concealing mask to ensure discretion, bing akin to a ghost as he silently traversed the expansive Moon Bloodline manor.

    As one of the Nangong n''s three main bloodlines, the Moon Bloodline''s residence upied a vast expanse ofnd. Chen Fan advanced carefully, moving deeper into the manor.

    After about two hours, the celebratory sounds in the distance gradually faded, eventually ceasing altogether. It meant that he had arrived at the depths of the Moon Bloodline manor.

    Confident no one would notice him, Chen Fan spread out his senses.

    Tonight was the night of celebrations for the Moon Bloodline. Gaining two seats in the council was such a big deal that even the five Core Formation realm powerhouses of the Moon Bloodline had all shown themselves, and Chen Fan had met all of them.

    As a result, there were no Core Formation realm powerhouses in the vicinity, facilitating Chen Fan''s covert exploration.

    ¡°Is it there?¡± Chen Fan looked to the right.

    His senses had picked up a sorrowful aura in the remote courtyard in that direction.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart stirred; he felt like a voice was telling him to go there.

    He did not hesitate. He quickly fluttered over silently like a ghost.

    This courtyard, though remote, showed no signs of decay. Its entrance was impably clean and tidy.

    Hidden in the shadows, Chen Fannded in a dark corner, his heart pounding in the silent night.

    He took a deep breath. For some unknown reason, the closer he got to the courtyard, the faster his heart beat.

    Moving like a phantom, he navigated swiftly and silently, reaching the corner of the walls. Blending seamlessly with the surroundings, he peered into the courtyard.

    There, he spotted a woman in a light blue long dress seated on a stone bench. An aura of sorrow enveloped her, illuminated by the moonlight like a silver-white veil. She gazed at the full moon and recited, ¡°Your cor is so blue, my heart is so true.¡± [1]

    She was thinking of her son and her husband.

    No matter if the sky was cloudy or clear, she would look at the sky every night, missing them.

    Chen Fan instinctively knew that she was his mother, Nangong Yue. Despite never having met, the instant heid eyes on her, the pulsating bloodline within him confirmed her identity.

    ¡°Mother...¡±

    <i>After eighteen years, I finally met you.</i>

    The woman''s gaze suddenly shifted toward him, locking eyes with Chen Fan.

    Their eyes met.

    Instantly, the woman trembled slightly. She said with difficulty, ¡°Child, my child.¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan could no longer hold it in. His figure blurred as he jumped off the high walls and appeared in front of the woman. He said with a shaky voice, ¡°Mo... Mother.¡±

    Nangong Yue''s trembling hands reached out, cupping Chen Fan''s face. Tears welled up in her eyes as she choked out, ¡°So... so alike. Those eyebrows, those lips. You resemble Zhengqing so much...¡±

    ¡°Mother, I finally get to meet you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice was also choking. He held Nangong Yue¡¯s hands tightly.

    ¡°My child, what¡¯s your name?¡± Nangong Yue asked.

    The incident hade to light soon after Chen Fan¡¯s birth. Chen Zhengqing had no choice but to flee from the imperial city, carrying the infant Chen Fan. They hadn''t even had the chance to give him a name.

    Eighteen years had passed in the blink of an eye, and Nangong Yue had always wondered about her husband and child, imagining how her child might look now.

    ¡°Mother, it¡¯s Chen Fan. My name is Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡± Nangong Yue mumbled. Then, she raised her head and smiled. ¡°Good. Chen Fan, Chen Fan, living an ordinary life.¡± [2]

    ¡°You¡¯ve suffered, Mother.¡±

    She had to stay away from her husband and her child for eighteen years; Chen Fan could not even imagine how she had endured thest eighteen years. Yet, the sorrowful aura emanating from her revealed the depth of her suffering.

    Who could willingly endure eighteen years of separation from their loved ones, uncertain if they would ever meet them again or not?

    The pain of longing was the most torturous.

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t hard. As long as you and your father are safe, I don¡¯t feel like I¡¯ve suffered,¡± Nangong Yue said.

    ¡°Rest assured, Mother. I promised Father that I will surely bring you back one day and reunite our family, never to separate again.¡±

    ¡°Silly child, I have no regrets now that I have met you.¡± Nangong Yue smiled. Suddenly, a hint of panic crossed her face, and she urged, ¡°Xiaofan, how did you enter here? Hurry, leave this ce right now. It¡¯ll be bad if someone discovers you.¡±

    Although she could not bear to, Nangong Yue understood the urgency of the matter. She had been so overjoyed that she had forgotten something important.

    The Nangong n was filled with countless experts.

    She did not know how Chen Fan had located the courtyard or sneaked in, but she knew the consequences would be dire if the n experts found him.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°No need to panic, Mother. I didn¡¯t sneak into the Nangong n. I came in openly and honestly.¡±

    He went on to recount the events, leaving Nangong Yue astonished.

    ¡°What? You assumed the alias of Wang Dongfan to fight for the Moon Bloodline and even helped us take one seat each from the Sun and the Star bloodlines!¡± Nangong Yue''s voice held a hint of disbelief.

    She knew that the Moon Bloodline had been on the decline due to her scandal. Still, she never regretted her actions.

    She just hadn¡¯t expected that her son would pull the Moon Bloodline out of their predicament.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you still need to leave right away. This is a forbidden area. If you are caught...¡±

    Nangong Yue appeared anxious, pushing Chen Fan outside.

    However, a voice suddenly rang out, shocking the two.

    ¡°I knew it. It really is you.¡±

    1. She¡¯s reciting a line from an ancient poem, ×ÓñÆ, that expresses their longing for their loved ones. ?

    2. Fan means ordinary. ?

 Chapter 297 â€“ Uncle

    <h4>Chapter 297 ¨C Uncle</h4>

    A voice suddenly broke the silence, startling Chen Fan and Nangong Yue.

    ¡°I knew it. It really is you.¡±

    A gust of wind swept through, and in the blink of an eye, Nangong Baxiong appeared in the courtyard.

    Nangong Baxiong stood tall and imposing. A fierce light flickered in his eyes as he looked at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Nangong Baxiong!¡± Nangong Yue eximed in shock. A look of desperation crossed her face as she pleaded, ¡°Nangong Baxiong, he¡¯s my child, your nephew. Can you truly bring yourself to harm him? Please, let Xiaofan go.¡±

    Chen Fan, too, stared at Nangong Baxiong, caught off guard by his sudden appearance. It seemed he had been under suspicion for quite some time.

    Chen Fan hurriedly said, ¡°Mother, no need to beg him.¡±

    Chen Fan faced Nangong Baxiong with a steady gaze, remarkably calm under the circumstances. ¡°Bloodline Leader Baxiong, when did you start suspecting me?¡±

    He knew panic would solve nothing. His mind raced, searching for a way out.

    ¡°Can''t you even call me Uncle once?¡± Nangong Baxiong looked at Chen Fan, his voice slightly deep. "My suspicions began the day Wan¡¯er introduced you to me."

    ¡°Yue''er is right. The corners of your eyes and your lips resemble your father too much. They¡¯re practically the same.¡±

    Nangong Baxiong and Chen Zhengqing used to be close friends. They hadn¡¯t met in thest eighteen years, but the second he saw Chen Fan, the face of his brave old friend popped up in his mind.

    That encounter nted a seed of suspicion in him.

    Tonight, everyone from the Moon Bloodline was celebrating, but Chen Fan had excused himself, iming he needed to leave.

    He had been keeping an eye on Chen Fan. His suspicions were confirmed when he saw Chen Fan sneaking out of his living quarters and walking toward a restricted area.

    Piecing things together, Chen Fan understood the sequence of events that led to his discovery. ¡°Then, Bloodline Leader Baxiong, now that you''ve uncovered who I am, what''s your n? Will you detain me and hand me over to those rigid old goats for judgment? Or will you send me to the Qin n to im merits?¡±

    Nangong Baxiong¡¯s gaze immediately turned sharp.

    Chen Fan, undeterred and fearless, matched Nangong Baxiong¡¯s stare.

    Although he was frantically trying to devise a way out of this situation, he couldn¡¯te up with anything practical.

    Nangong Baxiong was at the fourth level of the Core Formation realm. Chen Fan couldn¡¯t escape from him even if he used his true cultivation. The difference in strength was too much.

    ¡°Nangong Baxiong, you can¡¯t do that!¡± eximed Nangong Yue, her face darkening with worry. She quickly stood in front of Chen Fan, protective and defiant.

    Looking at Nangong Yue and Chen Fan, Nangong Baxiong momentarily fell silent. Then, he looked to the sky, sighed, and smiled bitterly. ¡°Forget it. I kept myself out of that matter back then, which made you hate me for eighteen years, and for just as long, I''ve been living with my own guilt."

    Nangong Yue and Chen Zhengqing¡¯s scandal had caused a huge storm in the imperial city. The Sun Bloodline, the Star Bloodline, and the Qin n had forced the Moon Bloodline to abandon Nangong Yue and offer her no help.

    Nangong Baxiong and Chen Zhengqing were close friends back then. He was among the first to learn of his sister''s rtionship with his friend and did not oppose their union.

    However, the events that followed unfolded at a startling speed.

    Under pressure from the Moon Bloodline''s elders, he could only stand by as Chen Zhengqing and the young Chen Fan were forced to flee the imperial city, pursued by their adversaries, eventually disappearing without a trace.

    This matter had been a thorn in his heart for eighteen years.

    He held himself responsible for it all this time, and so did Nangong Yue.

    When Chen Fan asked him if he would send him to the n elders or the Qin n, Nangong Baxiong realized that he had truly failed as an uncle.

    ¡°Xiaoyue, I let you down back then and made you suffer for eighteen years. It¡¯s only right that you resent an older brother like me.¡±

    Nangong Baxiong looked at Nangong Yue with a gentle gaze.

    When their parents had been on their deathbeds, they had asked him to protect his younger sister¡ªa vow he had faithfully kept since their childhood. Whenever someone dared to bully Nangong Yue, he was always there to make the perpetrator pay twice over.

    However, thatmitment wavered eighteen years ago.

    He just watched as his younger sister was separated from her flesh and blood. He just watched as she was ced under house arrest eighteen years ago. As she suffered for eighteen years, silently longing for her husband and her child, he could only silently watch.

    Ultimately, he realized he had failed to keep his promise to their parents.

    Addressing Chen Fan, he softened his tone and said, ¡°And you, kid, I''m not the viin you imagine. I only came to verify my doubts.¡±

    As his voice fell, Nangong Baxiong turned to leave. His back seemed somewhat sad.

    ¡°Brother!¡± Nangong Yue cried out.

    He briefly halted at her call but then resumed his departure without returning.

    Chen Fan looked at Nangong Baxiong¡¯s back. His eyes flickered momentarily, and he called out, ¡°Uncle.¡±

    Nangong Baxiong paused again, a sign of acknowledgment, perhaps, but he didn''t turn around. In the next moment, he vanished from their sight.

    In the quiet that followed Nangong Baxiong''s departure, Nangong Yue and Chen Fan exhaled deeply, relieved.

    ¡°Perhaps I was wrong to me him for eighteen years,¡± Nangong Yuemented.

    Back then, she had pleaded with Nangong Baxiong for help, but he had chosen to stand aside. From that moment on, Nangong Yue med her brother, who doted on her a lot.

    Nangong Baxiong often visited her during these eighteen years, but she never treated him kindly.

    However, she realized that she might have med Nangong Baxiong erroneously.

    Maybe Nangong Baxiong didn¡¯t help her because of circumstances that were beyond his control.

    Chen Fan also used to resent Nangong Baxiong a little in his heart. However, after hearing what Nangong Baxiong said, he began to doubt his initial judgment. They might have misunderstood Nangong Baxiong''s intentions.

    ¡°Mother, perhaps he¡¯s a good uncle.¡±

    Nangong Yue nodded and said, ¡°And a good brother.¡±

    Nangong Baxiong overheard them outside the courtyard and let out a long sigh.

    ......

    ¡°Tell me, Xiaofan, how is your father doing now? He suffered heavy injuries while fleeing with you. I heard that they¡¯d damaged his primeval vessel.¡±

    After Nangong Baxiong left, Nangong Yue and Chen Fan could finally converse peacefully.

    Chen Fan told Nangong Yue all about Chen Zhengqing¡¯s current condition. She smiled and said, ¡°Great, wonderful. Both you and your father are fine. It¡¯s such a relief.¡±

    ¡°Rest assured, Mother. In no more than two years, I will bring you out of the Nangong n openly. By then, no one will be able to stop our family from reuniting, and I will ensure that everyone who has wronged you and my father faces retribution."

    Toward the end of his sentence, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze appeared iparably fierce. His tone was also very sharp.

    Those people did not only include the Qin n and the Zhao n but also some people from the Nangong n!

 Chapter 298 - Leaving in Secret

    <h4>Chapter 298 - Leaving in Secret</h4>

    ¡°Is your father doing well?¡± Nangong Baxiong asked, looking at Chen Fan with aplicated expression.

    "He''s okay," replied Chen Fan, his tonecking warmth.

    "Well, that''s good to hear," Nangong Baxiong said, unfazed by the cool response. ¡°Your dad, Zhengqing, and I were quite close back in the day. I really supported his rtionship with Xiaoyue. But as you might understand, in big families like ours, we rarely get a say in our marriag¡ª"

    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about the past. What''s done is done. Why bring it up?¡± said Chen Fan, interrupting him.

    Nangong Baxiong smiled bitterly and said, ¡°You''re right. Dwelling on the past serves no purpose."

    ¡°Get to the point. Why did you call me here? Did you have a change of heart overnight?¡± Chen Fan said, looking at Nangong Baxiong.

    He shot a nce at Chen Fan. His nephew truly had a sharp tongue.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing much. I just wanted to remind you that you¡¯ve snatched two seats from two main bloodlines of our n. They''re likely targeting you now. I¡¯m afraid you will meet your end as soon as you step outside the Nangong n. In fact, members of those bloodlines are currently watching our manor,¡± Nangong Baxiong said.

    ¡°I expected as much," Chen Fan said coolly, unfazed.

    He recalled his fight with Nangong Fengyun. His bloodline¡¯s leader, Nangong Tong, had sent Chen Fan a secret voice transmission, demanding he lose. Chen Fan had simply responded with a cold smile.

    Then there was Nangong Ling. He had tried to heavily injure Chen Fan even during the meet with a shameless sneak attack.

    And why wouldn¡¯t they?

    He had single-handedly ruined the Sun and the Star bloodlines¡¯ n to bring down the Moon Bloodline. And foiling their ns was one thing, but he had even snatched council seats from them. He had helped the Moon Bloodline survive and greatly increased their say in the n¡¯s matters.

    Moreover, Chen Fan¡¯s senses were very sharp. So, he had sensed their icy killing intent.

    Nangong Ling, Nangong Tong, and the others didn¡¯t dare to move since he was inside the n right now. However, they would kill him as soon as he left the n.

    Even if he used his toes to think, Chen Fan could guess that Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong had sent people to watch the Moon Bloodline and monitor his movements.

    ¡°But I only offended them for your bloodline, didn¡¯t I? Bloodline Leader Baxiong, you probably wouldn¡¯t do something like leaving me in the lurch, right?¡± Chen Fan said calmly. [1]

    Nangong Baxiong felt somewhat helpless and smiled bitterly. ¡°They can¡¯t do anything if you remain inside the manor all the time. But I must admit, my hands are tied in offering you protection once you leave our n''s premises."

    This was the reality: Nangong Baxiong''s cultivation stood at the fourth level of the Core Formation realm. While formidable, he acknowledged his inferioritypared to Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong.

    ¡°No matter. When I agreed to fight for the Moon Bloodline, I anticipated the consequences. Let them keep watch if they want to. In any case, my purpose foring to the imperial city was mainly to meet Mother. I have plenty of time.¡±

    ......

    In the following days, Chen Fan confined himself to the Moon Bloodline''s manor, daily apanying Nangong Yue.

    Time flew, and half a month swiftly passed.

    The Sun Bloodline manor:

    Nangong Tong¡¯s expression was hideous, his voice low and deep.

    ¡°That cursed little bastard. It¡¯s been half a month. It''s been half a month, and he hasn''t set foot outside their manor. Does he already know we¡¯re going to kill him?¡±

    Nangong Ling said, ¡°Nangong Baxiong probably noticed our scouts there keeping watch. He must have told that little bastard about them. That¡¯s likely why he''s been holed up in their manor and has note out. How infuriating!¡±

    ¡°Then what do we do now? We won''t get a chance if that brat continues to stay in their manor,¡± Nangong Tong said maliciously, feeling the urge to barge into the Moon Bloodline¡¯s manor and kill Chen Fan.

    Of course, he could only fantasize about it.

    After briefly contemting, Nangong Ling suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s recall our scouts and station our people outside the n. I''m willing to wait as long as it takes for that brat to show himself.¡±

    ¡°Alright! My seething anger won''t be appeased until we kill that little bastard!¡±

    ......

    In Nangong Yue¡¯s courtyard at night:

    Chen Fan held Nangong Yue¡¯s hand and said resolutely, ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll leave tonight. Rest assured, I¡¯ll bring you home in two years.¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan, all I need is for you and your father to be well,¡± Nangong Yue said.

    Chen Fan smiled reassuringly and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mother. Our whole family will be fine.¡±

    The two chatted for another half an hour; eventually, Chen Fan left the courtyard despite Nangong Yue''s reluctant and repeated pleas.

    In a room, Nangong Baxiong looked at Chen Fan; his gaze flickered.

    ¡°It¡¯s already sote. What brings you to me?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving tonight,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Nangong Baxiong raised his eyebrows and said, ¡°No! The Sun and the Star bloodlines may have withdrawn their ws; from what I know, they''ve stationed experts outside the n. You¡¯ll be discovered as soon as you leave the Nangong n.¡±

    Chen Fan was not surprised.

    ¡°I know, but now, I have to go.¡±

    Nangong Baxiong¡¯s gaze darkened. He said coldly, ¡°Are you crazy? Do you have a death wish? How am I supposed to face Xiaoyue and your father if something happens to you?¡±

    ¡°Uncle.¡± Chen Fan grinned with a bright gaze. ¡°I have my reasons for leaving, and I''m confident I can handle it."

    Chen Fan put on his mask.

    When he addressed Nangong Baxiong as "Uncle," a sense of satisfaction filled the older man. However, when Chen Fan covered his face, Nangong Baxiong couldn''t help but be surprised. In an instant, Chen Fan''s aura had vanished to the point that, with closed eyes, one wouldn''t sense him even if he were right in front of them.

    ¡°This...¡±

    Nangong Baxiong looked surprised.

    Chen Fan removed the mask and said, ¡°This mask can conceal auras. I¡¯m not stupid enough to leave through the front gates. I n to leave in secret. With my aura concealed, who will notice me, especially at night?

    ¡°Rest assured, Uncle. I''m not naive enough to willingly walk into their trap. I still want to openly bring Mother back from the Nangong n in two years. I don¡¯t wish to die so young,¡± Chen Fan said, smiling, his tone rxed.

    Afterward, he took out some remaining Fountain of Life liquid and gave it to Nangong Baxiong. ¡°This is from the Fountain of Life; it should be useful to you. Also, Uncle, please inform Xuan''er that I had urgent matters to attend to and left first."

    Under Nangong Baxiong¡¯s shocked gaze, Chen Fan left the living room while donning the mask again. His figure blurred, turning into ck smoke and blending into the darkness.

    After flitting a few times, Chen Fan arrived at a hidden corner of the Moon Bloodline manor and disappeared inplete silence.

    Aside from Nangong Baxiong, no one knew that Chen Fan had just left.

    1. The original Chinese idiom for leaving him in the lurch literally means destroying the bridge after crossing the river. ?

 Chapter 299 - Visiting the Zhao Clan Again

    <h4>Chapter 299 - Visiting the Zhao n Again</h4>

    When Chen Fan came out, he sensed two wisps of spiritual power sweeping around constantly. He couldn¡¯t help but smile coldly inside. "Constant surveince, just as I anticipated."

    Choosing not to draw attention to himself, Chen Fan concealed himself in the shadows, ensuring that he remained undetected. Soon, he disappeared from the confines of the Nangong n mansion.

    ¡°I¡¯ll let you be smug for a while. Once I am strong enough, I''ll make you pay double,¡± Chen Fan muttered coldly, looking back at the enormous Nangong n mansion.

    "Next stop... the Zhao n mansion!"

    Like a wisp of green smoke, Chen Fan darted swiftly through the darkness, heading toward the Zhao n.

    The Zhao n mansion:

    ¡°Any updates? Have you discovered anything?¡± asked the Zhao n Patriarch, Zhao Hong.

    In the brightly lit Council Hall, he sat on the main seat. Zhao Feng, Zhao Lei, and several other n higher-ups sat to his left and right.

    Since Chen Fan sneaked into the Zhao n and wreaked havoc in the mansion a month ago, the entire Zhao n had been busy searching for his whereabouts in the city.

    Despite a month of relentless effort, they had found no substantial leads.

    ¡°Patriarch, the intruder wore a mask, making it impossible for us to identify him. There¡¯s no way for us to begin investigating. All he needs to do is blend into the crowd, and no one will know who he is,¡± Zhao Lei said.

    Over the past month, they had nearly turned the entire imperial city upside down, yet they failed to obtain any leads.

    The imperial city was massive, but individuals at the eighth level were still rare.

    The Zhao n had meticulously investigated everyone within this category except those they couldn''t afford to provoke. Still, they had returned empty-handed.

    Zhao Hong fell silent, aware that looking for someone without knowing their appearance was the same as looking for a needle in a haystack.

    <i>Tap, tap, tap, tap, tap...</i>

    Tapping his fingers on the armrest, Zhao Hong became the focal point of everyone''s attention, awaiting a decision.

    What should they do about this matter?

    Suddenly, Zhao Hong¡¯s eyes lit up.

    ¡°Oh, right, that person returned Zhao Ru¡¯s corpse to us. The corpse could be holding some clues. Go investigate! I want to know exactly where Zhao Ru went after leaving the n!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Zhao Feng, Zhao Lei, and the others pped and said, ¡°Our focus has been too narrow. Since the mysterious figure killed Zhao Ru, tracing back his movements before his death should lead us to the perpetrator."

    Zhao Feng, Zhao Lei, and the others¡¯ expressions brightened up immediately.

    Meanwhile, just outside the Zhao n mansion, Chen Fan approached silently, slipping past security unnoticed.

    Although the Zhao n had tightened their security after the incident, Chen Fan, with his concealed aura and the dark ying in his favor, remained invisible to the Qi Grandmasters guarding the premises.

    Chen Fan looked at the Zhao n¡¯s Council Hall, sensing the powerful auras gathered there.

    ¡°Hmm? They¡¯re all there. Must be a meeting," he mused. "I should check it out. It''s been a while. I wonder if they''ve uncovered any leads."

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered. He discreetly approached the Council Hall without arousing suspicion from Zhao Hong and the others and eavesdropped on their conversation.

    ¡°Hoho, sure enough, they came to their senses and are about to look into Zhao Ru¡¯s actions before his death.¡± A cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. This was within his expectations.

    ¡°In that case, let¡¯s proceed as nned and eliminate a Zhao n elder tonight, throwing their focus into disarray once more. Gotta dy things for as long as possible. Once I am strong enough to fight someone in the Core Formation realm, I won''t fear any repercussions, even if they trace it back to the Chen n."

    Chen Fan had long devised this strategy, and tonight marked the second step.

    ¡°One... two... three... six auras!¡± Chen Fan carefully sensed the number of people in the hall.

    While the Zhao n boasted more than six Yuanfu realm experts, these six were the absolute elite, each with cultivation surpassing the sixth level of the Yuanfu realm. They held the authority to decide the Zhao n''s fate, akin to the Nangong n''s Council of Elders.

    ¡°Three seventh-level, two eighth-level, and one ninth-level Yuanfu realm experts...¡± Chen Fan counted.

    Now that he was at the seventh level, he was much stronger than he was a month ago. He wouldn¡¯t feel as much pressure if he fought Zhao Hong again.

    As for the others, he did not think much of them.

    ¡°It¡¯s too bad I can¡¯t sense the location of the Zhao n¡¯s Core Formation realm old monster.¡± A hint of gloom shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    His biggest worry was that his fight with Zhao Hong and the other higher-ups could alert the Zhao n¡¯s Core Formation realm powerhouse.

    ¡°I should make it quick, then. Kill one instantly, and then make a swift getaway, luring them out...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze became fierce, having decided in his heart, and he quickly went into action.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The doors to the Council Hall burst open along with a loud noise¡ªnext, the terrifying silhouette of a spear flew toward the person closest to the doors.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan struck out without holding anything back.

    He utilized his cultivation to the limits, and all five illusory primeval vessels erupted with terrifying strength. The Heaven Piercing Spear struck out with a force that seemed capable of shaking the very universe.

    Chen Fan''s speed, coupled with the element of surprise, left Zhao Hong and the others struggling to react to the sudden assault.

    Zhao Feng was closest to the doors, whose cultivation was the weakest.

    This spear from Chen Fan was fast, urate, and ruthless. He did not give Zhao Feng any time to react.

    With a poof, the Heaven Piercing Spear pierced Zhao Feng. The force erupted, and he burst like a watermelon.

    After killing Zhao Feng in the blink of an eye, Chen Fan did not stay for even a moment and instantly flew out of the hall, making his escape.

    Zhao Hong was the first toe to his senses.

    ¡°Ah, damn it! Bastard! Sinful beast! It¡¯s you!¡±

    A fierce, wild wind whistled around him, turning the nearby chairs into splinters.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Zhao Hong¡¯s aura surged wildly, and his face contorted in extreme anger.

    They were just discussing Chen Fan in the Council Hall when he had brazenly intruded, swiftly ending Zhao Feng''s life.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going!¡± Zhao Hong''s furious roar echoed through the night as he stormed out of the hall in pursuit.

    The entire Zhao n immediately became alert, and numerous figures soared into the air, witnessing a streak of unparalleled de light illuminating the dark sky.

    ¡°That is... the Patriarch¡¯s Blizzard de Art!¡±

    The Zhao n members immediately recognized the attack.

    ¡°It¡¯s that masked man. He¡¯s here again!¡±

    ¡°Damn it, we can''t let him escape. Attack! Even if we''re weak, we can stall him momentarily until the Patriarch catches up!"

    ¡°Hurry, let¡¯s make a move together. We must not let him escape this time!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Immediately, the Zhao n members¡¯ eyes flickered fiercely. Their cultivation erupted as they attacked Chen Fan one after another.

    Although these people were weak and were like ants in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, an army of ants could kill an elephant with their bite. He didn¡¯t dare to let these attacksnd on him and stabbed with his spear.

    With a rumble, a terrifying spear silhouette pierced through the air and shed violently against their qi, annihting their attacks in one go.

    Yet, a ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert seized the opportunity in that split-second pause.

    ¡°Bastard, die!¡±

    Though brief, the momentary pause proved sufficient for the patriarch¡ªa ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert erupting with killing intent¡ªto catch up.

 Chapter 300 - Illusory Core Realm

    <h4>Chapter 300 - Illusory Core Realm</h4>

    Zhao Hong had caught up to Chen Fan in mere moments.

    ¡°Bastard, go to hell!¡±

    A de light chopped down violently. The space crackled, and frost quickly formed, turning thendscape into a scene reminiscent of deep winter.

    It was the work of the Blizzard de Art¡ªan upper-profound tier martial skill.

    The technique was as cold as it was brutal, making it seem as if the world around them vanished, leaving nothing but the snow-like de light shing violently through the air.

    This rage-filled de from Zhao Hong left a path of destruction in its wake, capable of fighting an army of thousands.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan felt as if he had been thrown into an icy pit.

    A piercing cold enveloped him, prating his defenses and threatening to freeze him solid despite his protective primeval force.

    Chen Fan quickly mobilized and unleashed his qi.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    In the Heaven Seizing Furnace, the rolling magma from hell boiled unceasingly. The invading chill was like a rat running into a cat; it quickly disappeared.

    Death loomed over Chen Fan as the icy de light bore down on him, aiming to cleave him in two.

    Still, Chen Fan remained utterlyposed, his mind as serene as still water.

    With a swift movement, Chen Fan''s muscles snapped into action like a bowstring being released, propelling the Heaven Piercing Spear forward with unmatched power.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    It met the Blizzard de Art''s icy assault head-on. The collision unleashed a thunderous roar that nearly burst the onlookers¡¯ eardrums.

    The impact generated a devastating storm that wreaked havoc in all directions, making the ground tremble. The nearby houses and pavilions shook violently, producing creaking noises, and copsed with a loud bang.

    The force of the collision sent Chen Fan flying backward. He had to stomp heavily in the air to counteract the momentum.

    ¡°Little bastard, you can forget about escaping tonight!¡±

    As could be expected from someone at the ninth level, Zhao Hong was not affected by the winds. The qi around him rampaged. His icy aura cut through the chaotic wind, aiming another fierce de strike at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan, stoic and unyielding, countered with three stabs from the Heaven Piercing Spear, each aimed at the oing attack.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    With every thrust, the spear''s tip rubbed violently against the air and directly burst into mes. They were like three suns, rushing out and burning the flow of air until it copsed. The air ahead waspressed to the point it was as hard as steel.

    The de light shattered, and the blizzard was annihted.

    Zhao Hong shed out once more. A raging blizzard swept along with the de light. Every snowke within the storm wasden with deadly de qi, ripping through the air and shing violently downward.

    Compared to thest time Chen Fan was here, Zhao Hong seemed truly furious; he wasn¡¯t holding back in the slightest.

    The aura of a ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert was simply stunning. Each of his de shes carried tremendous momentum and strength, unleashing a devastating blizzard with each motion, intending to entomb Chen Fan in ice and kill him.

    ¡°Fight!¡± Chen Fan roared. His aura was chilling and powerful, his robe whipping about in the fierce winds.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As their confrontation raged on, severalrge cracks appeared in the surrounding architecture. With the sweep of the wind, these structures crumbled into ruins.

    Terrifying ripples¡ªpowerful enough to kill Qi Grandmasters¡ªswept out in all directions. They overwhelmed some Zhao n members, making them bleed from their seven orifices. Wailing noises rang out repeatedly.

    Zhao Hong waved his arm repeatedly. A fierce blizzard swept out, and his powers rolled and surged.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    de lights carved up the space, and de qi stormed through the area, attacking Chen Fan relentlessly like a storm. It was too much for the eyes to take in, making it difficult for the onlookers to breathe.

    Wielding the Heaven Piercing Spear, Chen Fan was like a god of the underworld. His muscles were as taut as steel. The Myriad Elephants Divine Art¡¯s qi flowed at his back, manifesting into images of ancient wild elephants trampling the earth, his strength surging.

    ¡°Bastard, how dare you kill my Zhao n¡¯s people. Tonight, no matter where you flee, the only path open is the highway to hell. You will never make it out alive. Die!¡±

    Zhao Hong shed furiously. de light permeated the whole area like flowing water.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly in response. The Heaven Piercing Spear shed with Zhao Hong repeatedly.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Crackling noises rang out endlessly as the qi exploded. The ripples generated from the two exchanging blows transformed into fierce hurricanes sweeping out in all directions.

    The entire front yard of the Zhao n mansion was in ruins now. Screams and wails rang out as people were caught in their fight.

    Zhao Lei and three others had also caught up to them. They revolved their cultivation, and their qi shot to the skies, stirring the winds and clouds. Terrifying strength burst forth from them as they struck out furiously, shaking the sun and the moon.

    ¡°Bastard, you won¡¯t get away tonight! Thunder Burst Fist!¡±

    ¡°Kill! Shred him to bits!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan managed to withstand their attacks, but the force of their strikes made his qi and blood roil, and he was forced to retreat repeatedly.

    Although he was powerful, facing thebined attack of these five people, especially Zhao Hong¡¯s, he was overwhelmed.

    Even though he had fallen into a disadvantageous position, thebined forces of Zhao Hong and the others could not bring him down swiftly, shocking them.

    ¡°Haha, die!¡± Chen Fan was pushed back andnded on the ground. Heughed out loud and quickly forced his way into a room. Immediately, miserable screams rang out.

    ¡°Ah! Bastard! You bastard! I¡¯ll skin you alive!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan using the opportunity to kill more Zhao n members, Zhao Hong and the others were infuriated and hurriedly went after him.

    However, just as the fivended on the ground, the room''s roof suddenly blew up, and Chen Fan shot up into the sky.

    Unfurling the Wings of Rain Dragon, he made his escape. Thest maneuver had been a mere ruse to create an opening for his escape.

    ¡°Crap, we fell for his trick!¡±

    Zhao Hong¡¯s expression sank. He hurriedly rushed into the sky to stop Chen Fan.

    ¡°Farewell, for now. This marks our second encounter, but rest assured, it won''t be ourst. The next time I visit will be the end of the Zhao n!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold and cruel voice rang out, sending chills into Zhao Hong and the others¡¯ hearts.

    ¡°Bastard, you want to leave? Not happening!¡± Zhao Hong shouted angrily and chased after him.

    Suddenly, a terrifying aura spread out from the Zhao n¡¯s rear mountain.

    A piercing whistle cut through the air; the sound waves swept across the distance instantly, crashing into Chen Fan with the force of a tidal wave.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    Chen Fan''s protective barrier, forged from his primeval force, was shredded effortlessly.

    The sound wave mmed onto Chen Fan like a huge mountain, sending him flying backward and making him spew blood. The distinct sound of his ribs cracking was audible in the silent aftermath of the attack.

    As Chen Fan flew back, struggling to regain control, andslide urred at the Zhao n¡¯s rear mountain, and the earth split. Then, a small mountain blew up, and countless rocks flew out in all directions.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Amidst this chaos, a figure emerged in the sky. With just a step forward, he traversed the space as if it had folded upon itself, appearing instantly in the Zhao n''s front yard.

    The neer was someone old, and his hair and beard werepletely white, but his aura was iparably powerful, far surpassing Zhao Hong¡¯s.

    Chen Fan did not bother to wipe away the fresh blood at the corners of his mouth. He stared at this old figure, and his pupils shrank.

    ¡°Core Formation realm powerhouse!¡±

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze lit up immediately.

    ¡°No, he¡¯s not in the Core Formation realm, but the Illusory Core realm!¡±

    He had seen his fair share of Core Formation realm powerhouses. For example, the Calm Sun Marquis, Chu Feng, was a genuine first-level Core Formation realm expert.

    However, the aura of this old man before his eyes was not as powerful as Chu Feng¡¯s, even though it was far greater than that of someone at the ninth level.

 Chapter 301 â€“ Pursuit

    <h4>Chapter 301 ¨C Pursuit</h4>

    The Core Formation realm could be sinctly described as the process of converting primal force into a core within oneself.

    Essentially, it involvedpressing the primal force in one''s primal vessel into a dense, solid golden core, which was why this stage was also called the Golden Core realm.

    Those in the Core Formation realm were absolute peak experts in the Great Chu Empire. No one would dare call them weak, even in the entire Hong Domain.

    When one had condensed their primeval force into a golden core, but it wasn¡¯t solid yet, they were said to be in the Illusory Core realm. It would be a mere illusory image of the core. Hence, the name Illusory Core.

    This stage acted as a bridge; the martial artists would be far stronger than those at the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm, yet they wouldn¡¯t quite match up to the prowess of a true Core Formation realm expert.

    This old man before Chen Fan¡¯s eyes was an Illusory Core realm expert. Fifty percent of all his primeval force essence had been converted into the power of the golden core.

    Sensing the power of Illusory Core inside this elder, Chen Fan let out a slight sigh of relief.

    Luckily, he was not a true Core Formation realm expert. However, Chen Fan still felt a weight of concern.

    They had been a few miles apart when the sound waves from the old man''s powerful whistle had injured him, indicating that he was on the cusp of condensing a real golden core.

    Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, and the others couldn''t hide their joy upon seeing the old man, whom they respectfully greeted.

    ¡°Father.¡±

    ¡°Old Patriarch.¡±

    ¡°Old Patriarch.¡±

    It turned out that this old man was the previous patriarch of the Zhao n, Zhao Tianjue.

    ¡°Bunch of useless fools, you can¡¯t even take down someone at the seventh level!¡± Zhao Tianjue said coldly, his gaze sweeping across Zhao Hong and the others.

    The five, including Zhao Hong, bowed their heads in silence, refraining from any retort.

    Ignoring his n members, Zhao Tianjue turned his attention to Chen Fan and demanded, ¡°Young man, take off your mask. Now that I''ve emerged from seclusion, you have no escape tonight. You probably have no idea how terrifying Core Formation realm experts are.¡±

    Chen Fanughed mockingly and said, ¡°Old man, you certainly have a way with words. A mere Illusory Core realm expert like you dares to pretend to be in the Core Formation realm? Have you no shame?"

    Icy killing intent immediately shot out from Zhao Tianjue¡¯s eyes. He did not expect Chen Fan to see through his true cultivation level and expose his lies upfront, feeling sulky inside.

    However, he maintained aposed exterior. His voice became a little colder as he said, ¡°Young man, even if that''s true, escape is futile. Surrender, and you may suffer less. Otherwise, don''t me me for showing no mercy."

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Chen Fanughed loudly and said, ¡°Old man, you can¡¯t stop me if I want to leave!¡±

    The Wings of Rain Dragon pped fiercely.

    Chen Fan had no intention of exchanging blows with Zhao Tianjue.

    Even if he advanced to the eighth level and could condense seven illusory primeval vessels right now, Chen Fan still likely wouldn¡¯t be a match for him.

    Strictly speaking, someone in the Illusory Core realm was still at the ninth level, but the power they wielded wasn¡¯t something Yuanfu realm experts could ever wield.

    Fierce wind immediately whistled. With a swish, Chen Fan shot out like he wasunched by a catapult and soared into the clouds, blending into the darkness.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Zhao Tianjue uttered in surprise, caught off guard by Chen Fan¡¯s speed. ¡°Impressive. What flying technique is this? I have to take it!¡±

    A glint of greed flickered in Zhao Tianjue''s eyes as he transformed into a streak of light, swiftly chasing after Chen Fan.

    Zhao Hong and the others executed their cultivation technique one after another, and their figures also shot out like arrows.

    ¡°Young man, your weak cultivation will let that advanced flying technique down. It¡¯s like a bright pearl covered in dust. If you hand over the flying technique to me, I can spare your life. I might even bestow upon you the Zhao surname and wee you into our ranks. Past grievances will be forgotten."

    Zhao Tianjue was very fast. He was not much slower than Chen Fan when he used Wings of Rain Dragon with all his might.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°Old man, not even you believe those words. Do you think I''m naive enough to trust you?"

    ¡°Oh? So, you are choosing death?¡± Zhao Tianjue¡¯s expression turned cold, his voice filled with killing intent.

    His words earlier had indeed been a lie. Had Chen Fan surrendered, Zhao Tianjue would have killed him. What else was he supposed to do?

    Spare the one who intruded into the Zhao n?

    Spare the one who killed the members of his Zhao n?

    ¡°Old man, I won''t waste time arguing with you. Escaping would''ve been a challenge if you were a real Core Formation expert. But the reality is, you''re merely in the Illusory Core realm."

    ¡°Hmph, you don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for you. You think you can escape? Let me show you the true power of the Illusory Core realm!¡±

    Zhao Tianjue''s demeanor turned stern as his cultivation surged, propelling him even faster and narrowing the gap between him and Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡± With a cold shout, Zhao Tianjue punched at Chen Fan.

    The punch¡¯s aura was dazzling, nearly illuminating the imperial city¡¯s night sky. Its momentum was unrivaled, catching up to Chen Fan in a sh. It was like a meteorite crashing onto the earth, setting off boundless gusts of winds, aiming to kill Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned serious when he sensed the attack. His figure swayed as he changed directions, dodging the attack.

    <i>So, this is the Illusory Core realm... He is ten times stronger than an ordinary ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert.</i> Chen Fan felt slightly uneasy inside.

    The earlier punch could easily kill someone at the eighth level or severely wound someone at the ninth level.

    Since Zhao Tianjue was in the Illusory Core realm, he had some of the powers of a Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°Hey, look at that!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, that¡¯s the Zhao n¡¯sst patriarch, Zhao Tianjue. He¡¯s still alive!¡±

    ¡°I heard that he was training in seclusion after stepping down as the Zhao n¡¯s patriarch, trying to break through to the Core Formation realm. Looks like he seeded."

    ¡°......¡±

    Despite thete hour, the imperial city glowed with bright lights, and the streets remained busy with pedestrians.

    The terrifying auras shing high up in the sky immediately drew the attention of countless people. They looked up one after another and quickly recognized Zhao Tianjue.

    ¡°My fellow friends ahead, please help me stop this sinful beast who killed our Zhao n¡¯s people. You only have to stop him for one breath¡¯s time, and we will thank you generously.¡± Zhao Tianjue¡¯s voice rang out, tempting some Yuanfu realm experts ahead.

    Chen Fan was too fast. Despite utilizing all his cultivation, Zhao Tianjue could only maintain their current distance. And this only made him more interested in Chen Fan¡¯s flying technique.

    Suddenly, a figure shot up from the ground to block Chen Fan. This person¡¯s cultivation surged, indicating they were at the seventh level.

    ¡°Haha, very well, I¡¯ll give Senior Zhao a hand. Stop, you sinful beast!¡±

    He looked at Chen Fan like he was looking at a mountain of gold or silver.

    Zhao Tianjue had only asked to stop Chen Fan for a breath¡¯s time, not to kill him. He thought that, with his cultivation, that would be easy.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t slow down in the slightest. When he was still a thousand steps away from this person, the Heaven Piercing Spear in his hand spun fiercely and shot out, tearing through the air. A mournful ripping noise resounded through the clouds.

 Chapter 302 - Race of a Lifetime

    <h4>Chapter 302 - Race of a Lifetime</h4>

    Spiraling, the Heaven Piercing Spear ripped through space, covering a thousand steps in the blink of an eye. It threatened to kill the seventh-level Yuanfu realm man on the spot.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh!</i>

    This man¡¯s expression darkened. He felt the aura of death enveloping him. The spear seemed to have sucked his consciousness away, pushing him into the abyss.

    ¡°Ahhh! Get out of my way!¡± roared the man. His cultivation surged, revolving to the limits, bursting out overwhelmingly. He tried to grab the oing Heaven Piercing Spear and shouted, ¡°Moving Mountain!¡±

    It was his strongest martial skill, capable of moving mountains and overturning seas.

    Unfortunately for him, Chen Fan¡¯s Heaven Piercing Spear was sharper, and its powers were terrifying. A mere seventh-level Yuanfu realm martial artist could not stop a spear like that.

    <i>Pishhh!</i>

    The spear ran through the man¡¯s protective qi like a hot knife through butter. Death embraced him, and he died on the spot. His corpse exploded, leading to a crimson downpour.

    Everyone else tempted by the Zhao n¡¯s offer now looked terrified.

    This was the imperial city, yet no one would dare to up and offend a first-ss expert like that seventh-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    Some had been cursing the man for moving too fast and snatching the opportunity from them; as they watched the rain of viscera and crimson, their blood ran cold.

    Just how strong was that masked man? How could he kill someone at the seventh level like he was ughtering a chicken? A single spear attack and his opponent couldn¡¯t even resist?

    Even though Chen Fan¡¯s spear had scared off some people, some were still in the grip of avarice. They joined forces and attacked, trying to stop Chen Fan.

    These people were either rogue cultivators or experts from some small ns in the imperial city.

    Their benefits would be aplenty if they could form a connection with arge n like the Zhao n. Therefore, even after Chen Fan had killed a seventh-level expert with one attack, they didn¡¯t feel all that deterred.

    ¡°Stop!¡± Two eighth-level Yuanfu realm experts joined hands and attacked. Their aura transformed into a vicious and huge python, streaking across the sky and biting down at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan did not confront them head-on. He moved gracefully, quickly dodging away.

    When the two attackers saw him again, he was already right in front of them. His eyes were cold and merciless, like an emissary from hell. He stabbed with the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    <i>Poof, poof!</i>

    The terrifying force struck the two, and they flew as well as birds without wings. Two rumbling noises rang out, and the ground shook. Buildings copsed, and their fates were unknown.

    ¡°So strong! Even two eighth-level Yuanfu realm experts failed to stop him.¡±

    The eyes of the crowd below flickered, overwhelmed with shock.

    ¡°A bunch of useless trash!¡± Zhao Tianjue cursed in a low voice, disappointed by the three strangers¡¯ performance.

    He bit the tip of his tongue and spewed out a mouthful of bloody mist, enveloping himself. His speed skyrocketed, and he became twice as fast as before.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Zhao Tianjue had executed a secret art to double his speed. His protective qiyer rubbed violently against the air, producing a loud rumbling noise as he streaked across the pitch-ck sky like a huge ball of mes.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Chen Fan was already at the edge of the imperial city when he suddenly sensed Zhao Tianjue¡¯s surge in speed; his expression darkened.

    Zhao Tianjue closed the distance between them. A vicious light flickered in his eyes as he threw a punch.

    ¡°Rippling Fist!¡±

    This punch was even more powerful than thest.

    Immediately, terrifying force ripples shot forward at an rming speed, carrying a destructive aura that sent shivers down onlookers'' spines.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Chen Fan eximed, soaring into the sky quickly to gain more altitude.

    The area below Chen Fan was annihted by a wave of ripples, and explosive booms rang in the air. To Chen Fan, the area below now seemed like a spot straight out of hell.

    ¡°Can you dodge them all? Consecutive Rippling Fist!¡± Zhao Tianjue shouted coldly, his fists bing a blur. Space trembled violently as a destructive aura radiated in expanding circles.

    Chen Fan''s expression grew tense. He pushed the Wings of Rain Dragon to their limits, trying to evade the rippling force.

    He employed the Undefeated King''s Fist for those he couldn''t dodge, absorbing the impact. Although he was injured and spewed blood from the shock, he borrowed the rebounding force to gain a speed boost.

    ¡°You damned beast. You¡¯re even more slippery than a loach!¡± Zhao Tianjue cursed when he saw that.

    The two went on a chase just like that, crossing miles in the blink of an eye, with the wind whistling by their ears.

    Chen Fan ignited his primeval force, raising the Wings of Rain Dragon¡¯s speed again. He followed his ns and left the imperial city, flying toward the Wuning Empire.

    ¡°He¡¯s... He¡¯s not from the Great Chu Empire?¡± Zhao Tianjue''s mind conjured a map as he observed the direction of Chen Fan''s escape, his eyes reflecting uncertainty.

    ¡°I definitely can¡¯t let him get away. I have to go faster!¡±

    Zhao Tianjue hardened himself, spewing out another mouthful of blood mist to maintain his eleration, determined not to let Chen Fan escape.

    Soon, the two were more than fifty miles from the imperial city.

    ¡°Sinful beast, there¡¯s no way you can escape. Die, die, die!¡± Zhao Tianjue shouted furiously. The illusory core in his dantian rotated rapidly, releasing boundless powers.

    Terrifying fist lights whistled out, enveloping Chen Fan and sealing off any escape routes.

    After leaving the imperial city, Zhao Tianjue could unleash his full strength without concern for damaging the city''s structures.

    Gritting his teeth, Chen Fan resisted the onught, leveraging the recoil to boost his speed to flee. Despite suffering severe internal injuries with his organs disced, his gaze remained resolute.

    ¡°Damn it, how is his primeval force so robust!¡±

    Zhao Tianjue was astonished.

    Chen Fan¡¯s reserve of primeval force was too deep. It had far exceeded the standards of an ordinary seventh-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    Suddenly, the sound of crashing waves reached Chen Fan¡¯s ears.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    ¡°Good, the River of Rage is just ahead!¡±

    Chen Fan was overjoyed when he heard the waves.

    Arge river could be seen several miles ahead.

    The river sprawled five miles wide, stretching beyond the limits of Chen Fan''s sight. Turbulent waters surged like enraged wild beasts, creating a majestic spectacle.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Zhao Tianjue also saw the River of Rage and immediately realized Chen Fan¡¯s n. His expression darkened, and a sense of urgency rose within him.

    ¡°He¡¯s nning to escape using the River of Rage!¡±

    A trace of ruthlessness shed in Zhao Tianjue''s eyes as he expelled arge mouthful of blood mist, setting it aze. His speed surged three to four times beyond normal, quickly closing the gap to within a thousand steps behind Chen Fan.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Zhao Tianjue became a fiery blur, thunderous rumbling apanying him as he rapidly decreased the distance between them.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression sank.

    He was still five miles away from the River of Rage. Based on Zhao Tianjue¡¯s current speed, he only needed three breaths of time to catch up to Chen Fan.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    In the moment of crisis, Chen Fan turned around and hurled his spear, using all the strength he could muster.

    The terrifying force tore through the air. The Heaven Piercing Spear erupted into a zing me as it shot toward Zhao Tianjue.

    <i>Riiip!</i>

    Zhao Tianjue sted the Heaven Piercing Spear into smithereens with a single punch, but the force also hindered him, causing a brief pause in his pursuit.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan used this gap to ignite his primeval force once more. His speed erupted fiercely, breaking through the sound barrier at once. In three breaths¡¯ time, he was just two hundred meters away from the River of Rage.

    Without hesitation, Chen Fan dove headfirst from the sky, plunging into the turbulent River of Rage.

    <i>Swish!</i>

 Chapter 303 - Falling into River

    <h4>Chapter 303 - Falling into River</h4>

    ¡°Go to hell!¡± Zhao Tianjue roared and unleashed his strongest punch, hoping to kill Chen Fan with that one attack.

    The brief pause he had taken allowed Chen Fan to get close to the River of Rage. He felt so frustrated that he wanted to vomit blood.

    Zhao Tianjue even ignited a bit of his golden core, wasting three years¡¯ worth of bitter cultivation, to increase his speed further; almost instantaneously, he was behind Chen Fan, just a thousand steps away.

    Zhao Tianjue now hated Chen Fan to the bone.

    An Illusory Core realm expert like him had been chasing Chen Fan like a dog. Yet, he hadn¡¯t seeded. Wouldn¡¯t the entire imperial cityugh at him now?

    Even after igniting a bit of his golden core, he had failed to kill Chen Fan. He would truly be aughingstock now.

    So, he had used his strongest attack, capable of killing someone at the ninth level in one blow.

    Zhao Tianjue no longer cared about Chen Fan¡¯s flying technique. Now, only one thought crowded his mind: kill Chen Fan, leave not even his bones intact.

    His punch shot out like a massive, lightning-fast millstone, aiming straight for Chen Fan''s back.

    Zhao Tianjue knew all too well the slim chance of defeating Chen Fan if he managed to jump into the swift currents of the River of Rage.

    The rolling River of Rage churned with turbulent waves. They were so rough that a single wave could sweep someone away. Where would he go to find Chen Fan?

    He could have used his senses to locate Chen Fan had he not been wearing a mask blocking others¡¯ senses. Simply put, if Chen Fan got in, he wouldn¡¯t get Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan was no more than thirty meters away from the turbulent River of Rage. He could leap into its protective flows in the blink of an eye.

    However, Zhao Tianjue¡¯s strongest attack was fast like lightning. If Chen Fan did not block it, it could kill him even if he entered the River of Rage.

    ¡°Heaven Piercing Spear!¡±

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God¡¯s Strength!¡±

    ¡°Primeval force, ignite!¡±

    Chen Fan twisted himself around. All of his aura exploded and boiled like water. Terrifying power surged out of him like ten thousand horses galloping.

    His might shook the space, and rumbles flooded the space.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The force of the sh was monumental, causing the ground within a five-mile radius to shatter and split, forming awork of cracks that spread like a web.

    The waters of River of Rage rolled backward, generating a colossal wave, a hundred meters high, that seemed to consume thend itself.

    The enormous force struck Chen Fan, and he screamed, falling into the River of Rage faster.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    A minor ssh in the water quickly turned into a massive wave that engulfed everything in its path, erasing any trace of its origin.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Zhao Tianjue flew over, standing above the River of Rage. His rolling aura rushed to the sky.

    He did not care and shot out streaks of qi, which fell into the turbulent river and directly exploded.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Zhao Tianjue targeted the area around where Chen Fan had disappeared into the river, sending his primal force cascading into the water. These explosions triggered a series of massive waves, creating something like torrential rain.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Thissted for half an incense stick of time before Zhao Tianjue¡¯s bombardment stopped. His forehead was covered in sweat, and he was panting heavily for air.

    Hisplexion was pale.

    To catch up to Chen Fan, Zhao Tianjue had executed a secret art and ignited a bit of his golden core. Next, he had erupted his cultivation, bombarding at random, exhausting an enormous amount of qi.

    However, his expression was hideous.

    He was not sure if his random bombardment had killed Chen Fan.

    It would be for the best if he did, but if he failed... That would be akin to leaving a huge threat behind for the Zhao n.

    Ultimately, Zhao Tianjue could only console himself and return to the imperial city.

    ¡°He¡¯s probably dead.¡±

    Zhao Hong¡¯s group of five sped along as fast as possible, but Chen Fan and Zhao Tianjue were too fast. As Zhao Tianjue returned, they caught sight of him.

    ¡°How is it, Father? Did you kill that beast?¡±

    Zhao Tianjue shook his head and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know either. He fell into the River of Rage. Under my bombardment, he¡¯s probably... dead.¡±

    The five¡¯s eyes flickered.

    <i>He escaped?</i>

    They failed to bring him down even when Zhao Tianjue, an Illusory Core realm expert, took action?

    ......

    That night, the imperial city was anything but calm.

    The incident in the Zhao n had spread throughout the imperial city by early morning.

    ¡°Did you hear? The same mysterious figure who caused chaos in the Zhao n appeared against night. He killed Zhao Feng right in front of Zhao Hong and the others. He was chased by Zhao Tianjue and ended up jumping into the River of Rage. No one knows what happened to him after that.¡±

    ¡°Heavens! Zhao Tianjue is an Illusory Core realm expert. They still couldn¡¯t kill that mysterious person?¡±

    ¡°My curiosity about this mysterious man is growing by the minute. Who is he, daring to break into the Zhao n not just once but repeatedly, and this time even killing Zhao Feng in front of everyone?"

    ¡°Who did the Zhao n offend? This time, they really lost face big time. Zhao Feng was killed in front of Zhao Hong and the others. Tsk, tsk, how savage.¡±

    "He must have some vendetta against the Zhao n. Why else would someone target them like this, going so far as to kill their members? This smells like revenge to me."

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire imperial city was talking about it.

    ......

    Nangong n, Moon Bloodline manor:

    In the main hall, Nangong Baxiong listened to the news reported by his subordinate. ¡°A mysterious man sneaked into the Zhao nst night, killed Zhao Feng in front of everyone, and jumped into the River of Rage under the pursuit of Zhao Tianjue...¡±

    ¡°Does that mysterious man have any notable characteristics?¡± Nangong Baxiong asked.

    For some unknown reason, Chen Fan surfaced in his mind.

    ¡°I heard this man wears a mask that conceals his aura...¡±

    Before that person could finish their sentence, Nangong Baxiong immediately eximed, ¡°What? A mask that conceals aura?¡±

    ¡°Y-Yes.¡±

    The subordinate raised their head with difficulty and looked at Nangong Baxiong, wondering why he suddenly became so agitated.

    Nangong Baxiong also realized he had acted inappropriately. He waved his hand and said, ¡°Alright, I got it. You may leave.¡±

    After the subordinate left, Nangong Baxiong paced back and forth in the main hall. He muttered, ¡°Is it really Xiaofan? How can it be? Isn¡¯t he at the fourth level? How can he kill Zhao Feng and escape under Zhao Tianjue¡¯s pursuit?¡±

    Nangong Baxiong didn¡¯t want to ept it, but he just couldn¡¯t calm down.

    A voice in his heart told him that Chen Fan had attacked the Zhao nst night.

    ¡°No, it can¡¯t be, it can¡¯t be. I must be wrong.¡±

    A gloomy look flickered in Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes.

    This matter was too much of a coincidence.

    Chen Fan had just quietly leftst night, and such a huge incident happened in the Zhao n. The timing was so precise, not to mention the information he had heard from his subordinate.

    Moreover, Chen Fan had the motive tomit the act.

    Back then, the Zhao n was the main force that went after Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°If it really is Xiaofan, then I¡¯ll make sure the Zhao n pays with their destruction!¡±

 Chapter 304 - The Yi Clan Sisters

    <h4>Chapter 304 - The Yi n Sisters</h4>

    When Chen Fan opened his eyes, a throbbing headache greeted him, and the first sight that met his gaze was a white fabric roof.

    Momentarily taken aback, he soon found himself engulfed in a wave of excruciating pain coursing through him, forcing him to draw sharp breaths. Sweat poured down his forehead, and his contorted face reflected the agony he felt.

    Despite the unbearable pain, he felt an odd sense of relief. It appeared he had escaped drowning and survived Zhao Tianjue''s haphazard bombardment.

    Suddenly, a melodious voice, akin to a silver bell, reached his ears. Then, a tender face appeared in front of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Sister, this mister has woken up.¡±

    Chen Fan blinked a few times. He looked at the tender face above him, a pair of big eyes looking back at him with curiosity as he regained consciousness.

    ¡°Mister, you¡¯re finally awake.¡±

    The speaker was a little girl in her early teens. She was pretty, like a fair porcin doll; her big eyes were bright and intelligent.

    ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡± Another gentle voice rang out.

    Chen Fan looked over to find a young woman of around seventeen or eighteen next to the teen.

    She wore a long, light green dress, possessed waist-length hair, and boasted a lovely figure. Her oval face was pretty, and her facial features were rather simr to the teen''s. They were probably blood-rted sisters.

    The young woman¡¯s gaze fell on Chen Fan, and within her eyes was a hint of cautiousness.

    Laying on the soft carpet, Chen Fan blinked his eyes and asked, ¡°Where am I?¡±

    ¡°I am Yi Qiushui, and this is my little sister, Yi Ling''er. We''re from the Yi n in Thousand Waters City. Ling''er spotted you unconscious by the riverbank, and we brought you into the carriage,¡± exined Yi Qiushui.

    Her gaze wandered, and she addressed Chen Fan, ¡°Right, why were you unconscious by the River of Rage? I examined you; you have severe internal and external injuries. Did you fall into the River of Rage after fighting someone and drifted downstream?¡±

    Yi Qiushui asked a series of questions, giving Chen Fan a slight headache. He said weakly, "May I get up first?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± Yi Qiushui nodded, helping Chen Fan up from his prone position on the carpet.

    ¡°I¡¯m Chen Fan. Indeed, I fell into the River of Rage during a battle," he admitted.

    ¡°Oh? So, you¡¯re not a citizen of the Wuning Empire?¡± Yi Qiushui''s brows rxed slightly, but her eyes remained cautiously vignt.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°I¡¯m from the Great Chu Empire.¡±

    ¡°Great Chu Empire!¡±

    A look of surprise shed across Yi Qiushui¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯re really lucky. Although Thousand Waters City is close to the borders of the Wuning Empire and the Great Chu Empire, there''s still a considerable distance. You managed not to drown, drifting downstream on the River of Rage. I must say, you''re truly lucky."

    Chen Fan smiled helplessly.

    He was indeed very fortunate not to drown after falling unconscious and drifting downstream; he wasn¡¯t even caught by some demon beasts. It was simply a miracle.

    Yi Qiushui went on to ask Chen Fan some more questions. The caution in her eyes slightly lessened, and she said, ¡°Your injuries are severe. Why don¡¯t you recuperate at our Yi n first? It¡¯ll be safer if you leave after your injuries heal. What do you think?¡±

    ¡°Thank you so much.¡±

    Chen Fan did not refuse.

    His injuries were really very serious.

    Not only had his organs shifted, but some were even damaged from the impact of Zhao Tianjue¡¯s attacks. Many of his bones were also broken.

    His strong physique was the only reason he was still alive.

    <i>This time, my injuries are really severe...</i> Chen Fan sighed in his heart.

    His body was recast with dragon blood, giving him a freakish recovery speed. Still, his current injuries would not recover anytime soon. He needed to recuperate properly to prevent leaving any seque behind.

    ......

    Thousand Waters City, nestled near the borders of the Great Chu Empire and the Wuning Empire, thrived as a bustling hub due to the constant trade between the two nations. Merchants frequently made pit stops in this lively city, contributing to its prosperity.

    The Yi n was arge n, ranked within the top ten of the Thousand Waters City, with two Qi Grandmaster experts.

    Originating as a merchant family traversing both empires, the Yi n''s ancestors recognized the strategic advantages of the city and decided to settle down.

    More than a hundred years had passed since then, and the Yi n had developed to their current scale. They had some strength and were considered arge n, having arge mansion that upied a hundred mu ofnd in the city.

    The Wuning Empire and the Great Chu Empire¡¯s national strengths were simr. The Thousand Waters City was equivalent to a Grade-3 City like the Xuanyang City. Their overall strength wasn¡¯t high, so mere Qi Grandmasters were considered the peakbat force here.

    Stepping into Thousand Waters City, visitors were greeted by wide, clean streets resonating with the constant mor of merchants hawking their wares.

    The entrance of the Yi n mansion had two huge stone lion statues, looking mighty and domineering. They were rather prominent.

    The guards saw Yi Qiushui and Yi Ling¡¯er exiting the carriage and bowed slightly, greeting them.

    ¡°First Young Miss, Second Young Miss.¡±

    Just beyond the mansion gatesy a vast martial arts arena, where members of the Yi n engaged in sparring and learned from one another.

    Most participants appeared young, with cultivation levels hovering around the fourth or fifth level of the Qigong realm. Older individuals, reaching the sixth or seventh-level Qigong, assumed instructor roles.

    The Yi n''s strength predominantly resided in the Qigong realm, reminiscent of the early days of the now-powerful Chen n.

    Even so, therge n was filled with vigor.

    ¡°Sister Qiushui is back.¡±

    ¡°Ling¡¯er has returned.¡±

    Many people noticed Yi Qiushui and Qi Ling¡¯er and came over, greeting them with warm smiles.

    Since Chen Fan was walking together with the Yi n¡¯s sisters, it was inevitable that he drew many of their gazes, sizing him up.

    That was especially true for the Yi n juniors around Yi Qiushui¡¯s age. Their gazes contained traces of jealousy.

    In the Yi n, Yi Qiushui was the most beautiful woman. Even in Thousand Waters City, she was the number one young beauty, not to mention she had a modest and gentle nature. On top of that, she was also the daughter of the patriarch. It was inevitable that many of the young and vigorous youths adored her.

    Seeing Yi Qiushui return with an unfamiliar young man, they immediately marked Chen Fan as their imagined romantic rival.

    Chen Fan rubbed his brow. Yi Qiushui was beloved in the Yi n. He could tell from the gazes of these youths toward him.

    Chen Fan did not mind the angry gazes of these young and vigorous youths. It was only natural.

    Yi Qiushui was indeed very pretty. It was normal for people to admire her.

    ¡°Heehee, Mister Chen Fan, you have to be careful. It¡¯s not only in the n; Sister has many suitors in the whole of Thousand Waters City,¡± Yi Ling¡¯er whispered to Chen Fan, blinking her bright and intelligent eyes.

    Chen Fan smiled helplessly, harboring no romantic intentions toward Yi Qiushui.

 Chapter 305 - Yi Qiushuiâ€™s Situation

    <h4>Chapter 305 - Yi Qiushui¡¯s Situation</h4>

    A lean, robust young man walked up to Yi Qiushui, looked at Chen Fan with an unfriendly gaze, and said, ¡°Qiushui, who is this guy?¡±

    ¡°My friend, Chen Fan,¡± Yi Qiushui answered.

    ¡°Oh.¡± That youth nodded, unsure of what to say next.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to see my father,¡± Yi Qiushui said. The youth made way for her while Chen Fan watched, smiling and shaking his head at the youth¡¯s simple and honest appearance.

    After Chen Fan and the Yi n sisters left, many people in the martial arts arena sighed.

    An elder sitting under a Chinese schr tree shook his head and sighed. ¡°Qiushui is bing prettier by the day, and she''s reached a marriageable age. Given her conditions, finding an outstanding youth in Thousand Waters City as a partner will not be difficult at all. It¡¯s a pity...¡± [1]

    ¡°She can only me fate for ying tricks on her. She is born so pretty, with a good nature and kindness, but she happens to attract the attention of that detestable guy. That scoundrel Xu Long has advanced to the Yuanfu realm, so no one can beat him. He sent someone to deliver a letter today, forcing the issue,¡± Another elder said, his tone filled with anger and a sense of helplessness.

    ¡°I wonder who that youth is. Could he be someone Qiushui fancies?¡±

    ¡°Unlikely. The youth seems decent, but his cultivation is ordinary, not to mention that Qiushui wouldn''t burden someone else now.¡± [2]

    ¡°You have a point.¡± The elder who had posed the question nodded, also looking helpless.

    Now that the Xu n was powerful and Xu Long had broken through to the Yuanfu realm, no one in the Thousand Waters City could rival him. The Yi n found themselves powerless against them.

    Guiding Chen Fan, the sisters led him to the Yi n''s main hall. Inside, several figures with formidable auras, all at the seventh-level Qigong or higher, were present.

    Seated on the main throne was a middle-aged man with a dignified demeanor, Yi Jiuyang, the current patriarch of the Yi n. Sitting in the red sandalwood chair, he looked somewhat angry, but a greater sense of helplessness and powerlessness was evident.

    This middle-aged man was the current patriarch of the Yi n, Yi Jiuyang.

    Sitting below Yi Jiuyang to his left was Yi Laoer, the other Qi Grandmaster of the Yi n. [3]

    Standing beside Yi Laoer was a dubious-looking young man with long, narrow eyes and thin lips¡ªYi Yan, Yi Laoer''s son, boasting cultivation at the seventh-level Qigong.

    The Yi n sisters entered the main hall and greeted, ¡°Father, Second Uncle.¡±

    Yi Jiuyang''s frown transformed into a warm smile, and he said, ¡°You¡¯re back, Qiushui, Ling¡¯er.¡±

    A trace of a cold smile appeared on Yi Yan¡¯s face when he saw Yi Qiushui.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± He immediately raised his eyebrow when he saw Chen Fan entering behind them. He asked, ¡°Qiushui, who is this guy?¡±

    Yi Jiuyang and Yi Laoer also shifted their gaze onto Chen Fan, puzzled.

    ¡°Father, he¡¯s Chen Fan. He was wounded, so Ling¡¯er and I saved him.¡±

    She then briefly recounted the events that had happened.

    Yi Yan said coldly, ¡°Yi Qiushui, why would you dare bring someone on a whim when you know nothing about them? What if his enemy is powerful? Are you trying to bring ruin to our Yi n?¡±

    ¡°Also, don¡¯t forget your current identity. The Xu n has already sent an invitation earlier today. The Xu n¡¯s Advancement Feast is in three days. All therge ns of Thousand Waters City will be attending.

    ¡°And you, as the Xu n''s chosen daughter-inw, brought an unknown man back to the n at this crucial time. What would the Xu n think if they found out?

    ¡°Our Yi n is already weaker than the Xu n, and now that the Xu n''s patriarch has reached the Yuanfu realm, we can''t afford to offend them even more. You¡ª¡±

    Before Yi Yan could finish his tirade, Yi Qiushui cut him off and asked, ¡°Father, what Advancement Feast? What Yuanfu realm?¡±

    Yi Jiuyang wore aplicated expression.

    Yi Yan smiled coldly and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, you¡¯ve been away for half a month. You still have no idea what happened in the city recently. Let me fill you in.

    ¡°Xu Long is now a Yuanfu realm expert, bing a god-like existence. All the ns in the city have no choice but to submit to the Xu n.¡±

    ¡°Before, when Xu Long hadn''t reached the Yuanfu realm, the Xu n couldn''t overshadow our Yi n despite their superior strength. But things are different now. If you were to reject the marriage with the Xu n, our Yi n will face extinction," Yi Yan warned.

    Yi Qiushui turned pale and began swaying.

    The Xu n was the undisputed number one n of the Thousand Waters City.

    Their Young Patriarch, Xu Hu, possessed a repulsive appearance but exceptional talent, bing a Qi Grandmaster at a young age. He was the city''s top genius but used the might of his powerful n and cultivation tomit various atrocities.

    Given that Yi Qiushui was the number one beauty of Thousand Waters City, it went without saying that Xu Hu coveted her. He had publicly announced that Yi Qiushui was Xu Hu¡¯s reserved wife. (Note: Used reserved because soon-to-be, prospective doesn¡¯t work. They didn¡¯t ept their proposal in the first ce. They are trying to force the issue and the announcement is also a threat to others.)

    Xu Hu did not dare to act recklessly since the Yi n was arge n ranked within the top ten of the Thousand Waters City. He had only been obsessing over Yi Qiushui¡¯s beauty.

    However, Xu Hu¡¯s father, Xu Long, had advanced into the Yuanfu realm five days ago, gaining the strength to sweep through the entire Thousand Waters City.

    With that, Xu Hu could no longer hold it in any longer.

    Earlier today, he had someone deliver a letter of invitation to Xu Long¡¯s Advancement Feast. That day, he nned to announce his marriage to Yi Qiushui, and the ceremony would take ce immediately, and so would the consummation of the marriage.

    It was a tant act of coercion, and refusing the marriage meant bearing severe consequences for the Yi n.

    ¡°Enough!¡± Yi Jiuyang suddenly shouted, mming his palm on the table. A qi wave shook the entire main hall, and the dust on the beams drifted down.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Qiushui. So what if Xu Long has broken through to the Yuanfu realm? I¡¯m not afraid of him!¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t say that, brother. Do you want our Yi n to be exterminated?¡± Yi Laoer interjected.

    He nced at Yi Jiuyang and continued, ¡°Besides, what¡¯s so bad about Qiushui marrying into their n? Now, the Xu n dominates the city with a Yuanfu realm expert at its helm. If our families are connected through marriage, our n will also progress. You and I might have the opportunity to advance to the Yuanfu realm. In my opinion, letting Qiushui marry into their n benefits us."

    ¡°Hmph, Laoer, I am the patriarch of this family. I have the final say!¡± Yi Jiuyang¡¯s tone was firm.

    Yi Laoer pursed his lips and did not speak any further.

    <i>What is the use of speaking firmly?</i>

    <i>Can you defeat Xu Long with your firm tone? Without sufficient strength, the only thing in front of you is death.</i>

    ¡°Alright, no need to speak about this any further. Men, prepare a guest room for this Young Master Chen. Qiushui, Ling¡¯er,e with me,¡± Yi Jiuyang instructed and led the sisters out of the main hall.

    A servant came up and was about to bring Chen Fan to the guest room. Yi Yan said with a peculiar voice, ¡°Some people should have some self-awareness. A toad can¡¯t eat a swan¡¯s meat.¡±

    Chen Fan treated thement as the passing wind and followed the servant.

    1. Also known as Japanese pagoda tree, or by its scientific name, Styphnolobium japonicum ?

    2. A reminder that it¡¯s not easy for others to see through Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level unless there¡¯s a significant gap. ?

    3. Literally called Yi Second. Probably has nothing to do with the story. ?

 Chapter 306 - Advancement Feast

    <h4>Chapter 306 - Advancement Feast</h4>

    In a quiet room, Yi Jiuyang gazed at Yi Qiushui before looking up and releasing a sigh. ¡°Qiushui, I¡¯ve let you down.

    ¡°Father...¡±

    ¡°Yi Jiuyang said, ¡°Qiushui, that bastard Xu Hu is hell-bent on marrying you. In three days, he''ll undoubtedly broach the subject of marriage at Xu Long''s Advancement Feast, possibly threatening the entire Yi n. Qiushui, take Ling''er with you and leave the city immediately. The farther, the safer.¡±

    Yi Qiushui shook her head and said, ¡°Father, what will happen to the Yi n if I leave? Xu Long now reigns supreme over the city; our Yi n simply can¡¯t bear the Xu n¡¯s wrath if I am gone.¡±

    ¡°But I can¡¯t just sit by and watch as you send yourself into the wolf¡¯s den. Everyone in Thousand Waters City knows how despicable Xu Hu is. If you married him, that¡¯s no different from walking into the tiger¡¯s mouth. You won¡¯t see the light of day.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid this is my fate, Father.¡± Yi Qiushui desperately held back tears and said, ¡°If I leave, the Xu n will eradicate the entire Yi n. Many people will die because of me.

    ¡°Besides, I¡¯m already at the age to be married. It¡¯s the same whoever I marry. That Xu Hu... although he¡¯s ugly and is brutal, he does have extremely high talent in martial arts...¡±

    Yi Jiuyang shook his head and said, ¡°No way, Qiushui. That bastard Xu Hu has devastated countless women over the years. Marrying him would lead to nothing but misery for you."

    ¡°I¡¯ve decided, Father. For the sake of the Yi n, I''m willing to marry Xu Hu. Plus, where could we possibly go even if we left?"

    Yi Qiushui sounded sorrowful.

    ¡°But¡ª¡±

    Yi Jiuyang wanted to say more, but Yi Qiushui cut him off and said, ¡°No need to say anymore, Father. Second Uncle is right. Marrying into the Xu n isn''t a loss for me. Our ancestor worked hard to establish the Yi n in Thousand Waters City, and he wouldn''t approve if he knew the n might face its demise because of me."

    ¡°Father, I¡¯ve made up my mind. You don¡¯t have to persuade me any further. I¡¯ll be taking my leave.¡±

    Without waiting for Yi Jiuyang to respond, Yi Qiushui left the room.

    Yi Jiuyang looked at Yi Qiushui¡¯s departing back. He clenched his fists tightly, his veins bulging out. Eventually, he sighed helplessly, appearing as though he had aged a decade instantly.

    ......

    Yi n, a guest room:

    ¡°Phew... whatever, I¡¯ll repay this favor in three days and leave immediately.¡±

    Chen Fan sat on the bed, his eyes flickering with determination.

    In the Yi n¡¯s main hall, he had sorted out the information he had heard and roughly understood the Yi n¡¯s predicament.

    A Xu n member was now a Yuanfu realm expert, and their young master coveted Yi Qiushui¡¯s beauty. He nned to hold the entire Yi n hostage to make herply.

    ¡°In three days, huh... That¡¯s enough. My injuries are heavy, but killing a newly advanced ant should be easy.¡±

    Chen Fan set aside his thoughts and focused on healing. Time flew, and before he knew it, three days had passed.

    ¡°Phew.¡± Chen Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a turbid breath.

    After consuming plenty of Recovery Elixirs and recuperating for three days, Chen Fan had recovered about fifty to sixty percent from his injuries.

    ¡°Today is the Xu n¡¯s Advancement Feast, huh.¡±

    As he stretched, his movements produced popping sounds like crackling beans.

    He opened the doors to his room and headed toward the Yi n¡¯s martial arts arena. Along the way, the tense atmosphere within the Yi n was palpable.

    Gathered at the training ground, many n members seemed visibly frustrated and angry.

    ¡°Damn it, that scumbag Xu Hu isn¡¯t worthy of Sister Qiushui.¡±

    ¡°How frustrating. Why am I only at the fifth level? Sister Qiushui wouldn¡¯t have to sacrifice herself to protect the n if I were stronger.¡±

    ¡°Shut up, all of you. Why aren¡¯t you cultivating hard when you know Qiushui is sacrificing herself to protect the n? Will you let her sacrifice herself for nothing?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Yi n¡¯s juniors were all agitated and resentful.

    Soon, Yi Jiuyang, Yi Qiushui, and others approached the crowd. The Yi n members immediately greeted them.

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Second Master.¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡± Yi Jiuyang responded indifferently. His expression didn¡¯t seem well.

    Following him, Yi Qiushui appeared distant and detached.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. To the Xu n,¡± Yi Jiuyang said.

    Xu Long¡¯s Advancement Feast was today. It was to celebrate Xu Long¡¯s advancement into the Yuanfu realm. Of course, this was also a strategy of collecting wealth from people in disguise.

    After all, one couldn¡¯t possibly attend the Advancement Feast empty-handed. Naturally, they had to bring some gifts.

    The group walked toward the gates.

    ¡°Hold on a moment.¡± A voice rang out. Chen Fan approached them and said, ¡°May I apany you?¡±

    Before Yi Jiuyang could speak, Yi Yan rebuked coldly, ¡°Why should youe? We¡¯ve already let you stay and eat for free at our ce for three days. What, are you nning to mooch off the Xu n too?¡±

    Chen Fan ignored Yi Yan, his gaze fixed on Yi Jiuyang, awaiting his decision.

    Yi Jiuyang frowned momentarily, then said, ¡°Forget it. Since you want toe with us, then follow along. It doesn¡¯t matter anyway.¡±

    With a nod, Chen Fan fell in step with the group as they proceeded to the Xu n.

    ¡°Mister Chen Fan, can you help my sister? She''s doomed if she marries Xu Hu."

    Yi Ling¡¯er and Chen Fan were walking in the back. Her big pair of bright and intelligent eyes werepletely red right now.

    Despite her youth, the gravity of the situation was not lost on her.

    Chen Fan tousled Yi Ling¡¯er¡¯s head and smiled. ¡°Sure. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll help your sister.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Yi Ling¡¯er was a little unconvinced and said, ¡°Xu Long is very powerful, I heard. Not even my daddy is his match. Can you really help my sister?¡±

    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m strong. I can smack Xu Long to death with a single p.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    A scoff interrupted their exchange,ing from Yi Zhuang, the lean and muscr youth who had inquired about Chen Fan''s identity three days prior.

    ¡°Tch.¡±

    Yi Zhuang looked at Chen Fan disdainfully and said, ¡°What boastful words. You¡¯re only at the fifth level of the Qigong realm, even weaker than me. Yet, you dare talk about killing Xu Long with a p. You probably have no idea how terrifying a Yuanfu realm expert is. They¡¯re like gods with the power to destroy everything. He can kill you a thousand times over by just blowing.¡±

    Chen Fan only smiled in response, not saying a word.

    Yi Zhuang pursed his lips, turned his head away, and continued walking.

    The Xu n was on the eastern side of Thousand Waters City. Their residence was like an enormous castle, twice as big as the Yi n mansion.

    Today was Xu Long¡¯s Advancement Feast. All the respectable figures of Thousand Waters City hade.

    The Xu n was already the number one n of Thousand Waters City, with four Qi Grandmasters in their ranks.

    Now that their patriarch, Xu Long, had advanced into the Yuanfu realm, it was like ascending to the heavens in a single step. Even if all the other ns joined forces, they would not be a match for the Xu n.

    Now, the Xu n was the undisputed overlord of the entire Thousand Waters City. No one dared to provoke them.

 Chapter 307 - I Object!

    <h4>Chapter 307 - I Object!</h4>

    The Xu n mansion was alive with activity.

    Every n member was engrossed in preparations, buzzing with excitement.

    The reason for the excitement was Xu Long''s advancement to the Yuanfu realm, a feat unmatched in Thousand Waters City for nearly a century.

    To celebrate this milestone, the Xu n had sent an invitation to all the major ns in the city for Xu Long''s Advancement Feast that would be held at their mansion today.

    Even Qi Grandmasters had to respect experts in the Yuanfu realm. In this city, they were like gods. A single word from them could decide a person''s or even an entire n''s fate.

    At the mansion''s entrance, Xu n members warmly greeted arriving guests.

    ¡°Haha, congrattions! Congrattions to Patriarch Xu Long on his advancement into the Yuanfu realm. How long has it been since someone achieved that feat? A century, I believe. Truly an asion worthy of celebration,¡± said a middle-aged man to the two Xu n higher-ups receiving guests at the entrance full of smiles.

    This middle-aged man, a Qi Grandmaster, was the patriarch of Thousand Waters City¡¯s Zhou n.

    The two higher-ups at the entrance were at the eighth level. They cupped their fists with hollow smiles and weed him, ¡°Patriarch Zhou, please enter.¡±

    If it were in the past, they would have treated Patriarch Zhou, a Qi Grandmaster, humbly and respectfully.

    However, with Xu Long''s advancement elevating their status, their greetings now carried a hint of arrogance, reflecting the newfound confidence and pride of the Xu n.

    Still, Patriarch Zhou did not get angry, his smile unwavering. He led his n members into the mansion, carryingrge, red chests filled with various treasures as congrattory gifts.

    Following suit, the Wang n patriarch, a plump man, approached. ¡°Congrattions, Brother Xu Yan. Patriarch Xu Long¡¯s advancement is a joyous asion for our entire city. From now on, our Wang n will dly follow the Xu n''s lead.¡±

    ¡°Congrattions, Brother Xu Yan...¡±

    The patriarchs of the numerous martial ns offered their congrattions one after another with smiles, presenting chestsden with precious treasures to the Xu n.

    Xu n¡¯s inner mansion, inside a hall:

    A middle-aged man in a white robe exuded an air of authority so intense that even Qi Grandmasters would feel its pressure. He was the Xu n¡¯s patriarch, Xu Long.

    Alongside him were two elders in ornate robes, their deep and unfathomable auras and piercing gazes marking them as Qi Grandmasters of the Xu n.

    Also present was a young man in golden robes. He had an ugly appearance, but his aura was powerful, rivaling that of the two Qi Grandmasters. From time to time, his eyes flickered with a vicious look. He was the Xu n¡¯s young patriarch, Xu Hu, whom everyone in the city feared.

    ¡°Father, those ns that ignored your feast today shouldn''t exist anymore. Let¡¯s eradicate them all after today. Given our current strength, we can eliminate anyone we want,¡± said Xu Hu coldly, as if eradicating a martial n was nothing more than an exercise to him.

    ¡°Patriarch, the Young Patriarch is right. Now that you¡¯re a Yuanfu realm expert, the city is yours for the taking. By not attending the feast, aren¡¯t they looking down on our n? Looking down on you, Patriarch? You must make them pay for it with their lives. Show the city who owns it,¡± said the two elders coldly.

    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll do as you say. I can use this as an opportunity to disy my authority,¡± Xu Long said indifferently.

    ¡°Father, do you think the Yi n will agree to that matter?¡± Xu Hu licked his lips. A fiery look shed in his eyes.

    He had been coveting Yi Qiushui for a long time. The Xu n couldn¡¯t act recklessly before, although they were stronger than the Yi n even back then. But now, things have changed. The Xu n now had the absolute strength to suppress the Yi n.

    Xu Long said, ¡°As the number one beauty of Thousand Waters City, it wouldn¡¯t be an insult to match Yi Qiushui with you. Should the Yi n decline the marriage proposal, we¡¯ll take matters into our own hands and get her. Should they oppose us, annihting them is within our means.¡±

    With just a few words, Xu Long held the fate of the Yi n in his hands, showcasing the formidable power wielded by someone of the Yuanfu realm.

    ......

    Outside the Xu n, Yi Jiuyang arrived with the Yi n members behind him.

    ¡°Hoho, our inws are here.¡±

    Xu Yan immediately revealed a smile.

    The Yi n was different from the other ns, as their young patriarch, Xu Hu, had his eyes on Yi Qiushui. He had to give face to them.

    Yi Jiuyang cupped his fists and said, ¡°Congrattions. Our Yi n hase to offer our congrattions.¡±

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re too polite, Brother Jiuyang. Come in, please. The patriarch and the young patriarch will be happy to hear you¡¯re here,¡± said Xu Yan with a smile.

    As Chen Fan entered the mansion, he immediately saw gifts from various ns disyed along the sides. Large red wooden chests were everywhere. Rows ofrge red chests filled the space, easily numbering in the hundreds at first nce.

    The Yi n had also sent many gifts: five full,rge red wooden chests. They were neatly arranged alongside others. The entourage then proceeded to the martial arts arena.

    Numerous round tables had been set up in the massive martial arts arena. A lively atmosphere already filled the air, with many attendees taking their seats.

    Many people stood up when they noticed Yi Jiuyang¡¯s group. ¡°Congrattions, Brother Jiuyang. The union of your Yi n with the Xu n promises great heights in the future.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Young Master Xu Hu is already a Qi Grandmaster at such a young age. His future is limitless. He could even be the Xu n¡¯s second Yuanfu realm expert. Your Yi n has really profited this time.¡±

    ¡°Brother Jiuyang, you''ve truly raised an exceptional daughter. It¡¯s too bad Young Master Xu Hu hadn¡¯t taken a fancy to any of the girls of our Huo n. Otherwise, your Yi n wouldn¡¯t have been in this fortunate position."

    ¡°......¡±

    Yi Jiuyang''s expression soured; it was apparent his daughter wasn''t heading into a prestigious n but rather into a precarious situation.

    In the main hall, Xu Hu said, ¡°Father, the Yi n is here. It¡¯s about time we head out. Most of the guests are already here.¡±

    He felt a little impatient when he thought about Yi Qiushui, the number one beauty in the city, moaning in pleasure underneath him tonight as he toyed with her as he wished.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Xu Long nodded and walked outside.

    Xu Long led the three to the martial arts arena. His voice resounded as he said, ¡°Haha, wee everyone, foring to my Xu n as guests tonight. I was in seclusion to stabilize my cultivation. My apologies for not being able to greet you all in person.¡±

    The crowd stood up one after another when they saw the central figure had arrived. They appeared humble, saying, ¡°No, no. Brother Xu¡¯s advancement into the Yuanfu realm is a blessing to our Thousand Waters City. With you overseeing the city, the passing merchants won¡¯t dare to cause any trouble in the future.¡±

    ¡°Haha, congrattions to Brother Xu for your advancement into the Yuanfu realm and ascending to the heavens in a single step.¡±

    ¡°Congrattions...¡±

    The crowd offered their congrattions one after another.

    Xu Long nodded with a smile and said, ¡°Please take a seat, everyone. Today, we celebrate not only my advancement but also the engagement between my son and the Yi n''s Yi Qiushui.¡±

    Turning his attention toward the Yi n, he continued, ¡°Brother Jiuyang, I''m curious to hear your thoughts. My boy, Xu Hu, has long admired Qiushui. Today, I officially propose the union of our families. Surely you won''t decline in front of our esteemed guests?"

    Although he sounded polite, anyone could discern the thinly veiled threat underneath.

    Yi Jiuyang¡¯s expression was ugly. He looked at the vaguely smiling Xu Long, not saying a word.

    The entire area fell silent at once. The atmosphere became slightly heavy.

    ¡°What, does Brother Jiuyang think my son Xu Hu is not worthy of Yi Qiushui?¡± Xu Long¡¯s apathetic voice rang out, filling the crowd with fear and trepidation.

    An invisible pressure loomed over the heads of the Yi n¡¯s group.

    Many Yi n juniors turned pale under this pressure, feeling like a ferocious beast had locked onto them.

    Standing behind Yi Jiuyang, Yi Qiushui bit her lips. Ultimately, she took a deep breath and stepped forward. ¡°I am willing.¡±

    Xu Long and Xu Hu smiled.

    Suddenly, a voice rang out.

    ¡°I object!¡±

 Chapter 308 - Killing with a Breath

    <h4>Chapter 308 - Killing with a Breath</h4>

    ¡°I object!¡±

    Xu Long and Xu Hu¡¯s faces stiffened when Chen Fan objected.

    The rxed atmosphere tensed up once again.

    Everyone shifted their gazes with difficulty to look at the speaker. They spotted a young figure emerging from the rear of the Yi n¡¯s group. He walked to the front and stood beside Yi Qiushui.

    ¡°Who is he?¡±

    "I can''t recall anyone like him in the Yi n."

    ¡°Is this guy¡¯s brain fried or something?¡±

    ¡°The Yi n is done for. This brat just came out of nowhere and is about to push them into an endless abyss.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    A wave of murmurs swept through the entire martial arts arena.

    All eyes were on Chen Fan, eager to unravel the mystery behind his identity and his sudden intervention.

    Chen Fan ignored them. He looked at Xu Long and Xu Hu and said, ¡°With a face like that, how dare you dream of eating a white swan like Yi Qiushui? Why don¡¯t you take a piss and look at your reflection? Do you think you¡¯re worthy?¡±

    ¡°You know why I didn¡¯t call you a toad? Because that would have been an insult to those beautiful beings. I can''t fathom where you summon the audacity to appear in public looking like that. Don¡¯t you know your looks scare people?¡±

    Every word from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth rumbled like thunder in the crowd¡¯s ears, leaving them stunned, their minds buzzing.

    <i>What is this kid saying?</i>

    <i>He¡¯s insulting Xu Hu?</i>

    Although everyone from Thousand Waters City knew Xu Hu was ugly, who dared to say it to his face? Was he looking to die?

    A hint of pity surfaced in the countless gazes looking at Chen Fan simultaneously. He would have to pay with his life for speaking his mind.

    Would Xu Hu let this insult slide without consequences?

    Three years ago, a foreign merchant stopped to rest at Thousand Waters City and encountered Xu Hu. Repulsed by Xu Hu''s looks, the merchant vomited hisst meal.

    Xu Hu was enraged and crippled the foreign merchant¡¯s cultivation. Then, he stripped the merchant naked, hung him up on the city¡¯s gates, and sentenced the merchant to death by a thousand cuts.

    The haunting screams of that foreign merchant still lingered in the memories of many.

    It wasmon knowledge that Xu Hu, shaped by his unattractive appearance, had a dark personality and vented his frustrations on the young women of the city.

    Over the years, Xu Hu had victimized at least eighty women, if not a hundred.

    What he hated the most was others calling him ugly.

    The crowd watched as Xu Hu''s countenance contorted into a fiendish expression. An icy, murderous intent emanated from him, forming a storm that chilled the hearts of those in its reach.

    The Yi n¡¯s people, including Yi Jiuyang and Yi Qiushui, finally came to their senses. Their expressions darkened drastically.

    ¡°Patriarch Xu, this sinful beast is Chen Fan. He¡¯s not from our Yi n. We¡¯ll capture him immediately and let Young Master Xu Hu punish him as he wishes,¡± Yi Laoer said, casting a gaze at Chen Fan that seemed to say that he wanted to tear him apart.

    ¡°Yan¡¯er, take him down. Waste his cultivation, cripple his limbs, then hand him over to Young Master Xu Hu.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Yi Yan stepped forward. His seventh-level Qigong cultivation erupted, forming a fierce wind. His hand adopted the form of a w, wing at Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder as an icy light flickered in his eyes.

    ¡°You little bastard, our Yi n was kind enough to take you in and let you recuperate from your injuries. Instead of showing gratitude, you bring cmity upon us! You deserve to die!¡± Yi Yan¡¯s icy voice rang out. His fingers were like silver spears, brimming with primeval qi, producing hissing sounds.

    Chen Fan had put the Yi n in a dangerous situation. They needed to capture Chen Fan and hand him over to Xu Hu to earn his forgiveness.

    Chen Fan did not move, allowing Yi Yan to w at him.

    ¡°Shatter!¡± Yi Yan shouted, his expression savage. His strength gushed out, trying to break Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder.

    However, once his w grabbed Chen Fan''s shoulder, no matter how much strength Yi Yan exerted, it felt like trying to crush a steel te¡ªutterly immovable.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± Yi Yan was astonished.

    He was at the seventh level of the Qigong realm, while Chen Fan was merely at the fifth level. Moreover, didn¡¯t Chen Fan suffer heavy injuries? Breaking Chen Fan''s shoulder with a w should have been easy, but inexplicably, he couldn''t budge him.

    ¡°Break!¡± Yi Yan roared, revolving his cultivation. A fierce wind swept away from him, whistling.

    However, a miserable scream came from his mouth immediately.

    Chen Fan shook. A terrifying force spread from him, shattering Yi Yan¡¯s fingers.

    ¡°Ah, my hand, my hand...¡±

    ¡°Yan¡¯er!¡± Yi Laoer¡¯s expression sank. He rushed over like the wind, and his gaze became iparably dark. He looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°You damnable little bastard, die!¡±

    The wind and clouds stirred as soon as Yi Laoer struck. A powerful gust surged like waves, causing the martial arts arena to shake violently.

    However, Chen Fan did not even raise his hand. He shouted coldly at Yi Laoer.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Despite Yi Laoer''s aggressive approach, Chen Fan''s shout sent him flying backward, spewing blood as if a mountain had crashed into him. Tables and chairs shattered into chaotic pieces amid themotion.

    Yi Jiuyang was about to move to stop Yi Laoer, but he paused abruptly, looking astonished.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Yi Qiushui was also looking at Chen Fan, her beautiful eyes trembling, stunned beyond words.

    He injured Yi Laoer, a Qi Grandmaster, with a shout. What kind of strength was that?

    ¡°Hoho, rest assured. With me around, no one can do a thing to you.¡± Chen Fan smiled at Yi Qiushui. He put his hands to his back and strode toward Xu Long and Xu Hu.

    Xu Hu also looked astonished. His eyes flickered non-stop. Xu Long stared fixedly at the approaching Chen Fan, narrowing his eyes.

    ¡°Who are you?¡±

    He could not see through Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation.

    Chen Fan was clearly in the fifth level of the Qigong realm, but he had broken Yi Yan¡¯s palm with just a shake. Next, he had sent a Qi Grandmaster, Yi Laoer, flying with a shout¡ªnot even Xu Long could do it.

    Chen Fan stood five meters away from the two. He smiled calmly and said, ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter. All you need to know is that Yi Qiushui saved my life, and you two tried to force my savior. Tell me, how should I deal with you?¡±

    The Xu n members looked as if a great enemy had appeared before them. Xu Long said, ¡°All of this is just a misunderstanding.¡±

    ¡°A misunderstanding?¡± Chen Fan chuckled lightly, shaking his head.

    Xu Long¡¯s gaze darkened and said, ¡°I¡¯m willing to apologize to the Yi n.¡±

    ¡°Apologize?¡± Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Fine. Use both of your lives to apologize.¡±

    Chen Fan opened his mouth and blew. A stream of qi shot out like a sharp sword, piercing through the air and emitting an ear-piercing noise.

    Xu Long¡¯s expression changed drastically. He struck out, and his cultivation erupted, forming a primeval force shield.

    However, his defenses were like a block of tofu before Chen Fan¡¯s weak qi attack.

    ¡°No!¡± Xu Long roared. His cultivation surged fiercely but came to an abrupt end.

    The mouthful of qi Chen Fan had spat out pierced through everything, puncturing Xu Long¡¯s brow, exiting through the back of his head, and continuing forward. With a bang, it struck arge limestone at the side of the martial arts arena, and it immediately became powder.

    Suddenly, the entire martial arts arena fell so silent that one could even hear a needle hitting the ground.

 Chapter 309 - Completely Resolved

    <h4>Chapter 309 - Completely Resolved</h4>

    The whole ce fell silent. Wide-eyed, everyone watched the unfolding events in disbelief.

    Chen Fan had just killed a newbie Yuanfu realm expert by, essentially, breathing. Xu Long couldn¡¯t even withstand a puff of air. Even ants could do that.

    <i>How is that possible?</i>

    <i>That was a Yuanfu realm expert!</i>

    Everyone was dumbfounded.

    Following Xu Long''s breakthrough, every n in the city had been cautious, fearing potential repercussions from the Xu n if they identally provoked them.

    When Chen Fan had stepped forward and insulted Xu Hu to his face, everyone thought he would meet a miserable end, one worse than that of the foreign merchant.

    Yet, Chen Fan had killed Xu Long by spitting out a stream of qi. The shock resonated like thunder on a clear day, echoing in the spectators'' minds.

    A Yuanfu realm expert, a god-like existence in their eyes, was dead because someone blew on him.

    ¡°Killing with a breath of qi... this... how is this possible?¡±

    ¡°Xu Long is dead?¡±

    ¡°Am I dreaming? That¡¯s a Yuanfu realm expert! A god died with a single breath of qi!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    It took the crowd quite a while toe back to their senses. Their eyeballs trembled as if they were about to jump out from their sockets, revealing their disturbed state of mind.

    It was akin to a colossal wave, a surge of emotions overwhelming everyone.

    ¡°Heavens, a Yuanfu realm expert felled by a single breath. Just how strong is he?¡±

    ¡°Many brag about killing others with a single breath... I¡¯ve finally witnessed it for myself.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, the Xu n is done for.¡±

    ¡°What kind of bullshit luck does the Yi n have to save such a terrifying figure? Even a Yuanfu realm expert is like an ant to him.¡±

    ¡°Look at the Xu n¡¯s people. They look like they''d just eaten dog shit.¡±

    ¡°Ptooi! That ugly freak Xu Hu dares to dream of marrying the number one beauty of our city. He should look into the mirror and see that ugly face for himself. A single look at him is enough to make me vomit the food I ate three days ago.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, you¡¯re wrong about that. Why would he dare to look into the mirror when he knows how ugly he is? He¡¯ll scare himself to death!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone took a swing at the man who was down.

    After bing a Yuanfu realm expert, Xu Long had oppressed the variousrge ns of Thousand Waters City.

    Now that Chen Fan had killed Xu Long, that huge mountain had copsed. The onlookers, no longer able to contain themselves, openly mocked the Xu n.

    Everyone knew that the Xu n would meet their end today.

    Xu Hu finally returned to his senses. He looked at Chen Fan in fear and shock, hissing and roaring. ¡°You killed my father!¡±

    Chen Fan said, ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s not only him. You go apany him in hell.¡±

    With that, he flicked his finger. Xu Hu didn¡¯t even have the qualifications to resist and followed in Xu Long¡¯s footsteps.

    Chen Fan did not show the slightest hint of pity.

    He had a rough idea of the atrocities Xu Hu hadmitted. Scum like him only continued doing evil if they lived.

    <i>Bang, bang!</i>

    The two Qi Grandmasters from the Xu n finally caved under the pressure. Their legs went limp, and they knelt on the ground. ¡°Please spare our lives, Young Warrior. Please spare our lives...¡±

    They were terrified.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered sparing them a nce. He turned around, looked at Yi Qiushui, and said, ¡°Today, I helped you resolve your difficulties to repay the favor. Now, I¡¯ll give you some luck!¡±

    He pped, and three drops from the Fountain of Life immediately flew out, casting a kaleidoscope of colors in the air and exuding a potent aura.

    ¡°What is that? Such a rich vitality essence. I feel invigorated just by taking a whiff of it.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, could this be the legendary Fountain of Life?¡±

    "The one said to produce a Yuanfu realm expert with just a drop? That Fountain of Life?"

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone was stunned, but Chen Fan ignored them.

    With a flick of his finger, the three drops flew out and entered Yi Jiuyang, Yi Qiushui, and Yi Ling¡¯er.

    Noticing that they just stood there dumbfounded, Chen Fan shouted, ¡°Quickly drive your cultivation and refine it!¡±

    The trio promptly snapped back to reality. They quickly sat cross-legged on the ground and began circting their cultivation, refining it.

    The crowd looked at Yi Jiuyang and his daughters with envious gazes,menting theirck of such good fortune.

    An hourter, Yi Jiuyang¡¯s aura erupted, and a primeval vessel materialized above his head, emitting a glittering immortal light.

    He had been a Qi Grandmaster long, so the drop was enough to push him to the Yuanfu realm.

    Yi Qiushui and Yi Ling¡¯er¡¯s auras were also rising. Yi Qiushui¡¯s cultivation resembled an unleashed flood, catapulting from the seventh level to the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    As for Yi Ling¡¯er, she was still young and was only at the fourth level, so she couldn¡¯t absorb the drop.

    Chen Fan decided to seal most of the essences inside her, leaving behind a tiny crack that would drip the liquid asionally. Her cultivation would progress rapidly until this drop of Fountain of Life was exhausted.

    Seeing Yi Jiuyang advancing into the Yuanfu realm, Yi Qiushui bing a Qi Grandmaster, and Yi Ling¡¯er¡¯s cultivation skyrocketing to the sixth level, the surrounding crowd went crazy with envy.

    The Yi n had truly struck it rich this time!

    Chen Fan approached Yi Qiushui and said, ¡°Alright, this matter is over, settling the karma between us. I shall take my leave now.¡±

    Yi Qiushui nodded nkly and subconsciously replied, ¡°Alright.¡±

    Chen Fan cupped his fists toward Yi Jiuyang, and then he shot into the sky, flying into the distance.

    Only then did Yi Qiushui regain her senses. She shouted anxiously toward Chen Fan''s departing figure, "Chen Fan, will we meet again?"

    ¡°Hoho, if fate allows, we shall meet again," came a faint response. Yi Qiushui seemed disappointed.

    ¡°Mister Chen Fan...¡± Yi Ling¡¯er couldn¡¯t help but shout, looking into the sky.

    She was still a little dazed, yet to fully take in what had just happened.

    ¡°Flying... Heavens! He¡¯s a Yuanfu realm expert, indeed. It¡¯s no wonder he could kill Xu Long.¡±

    ¡°If I hadn¡¯t seen it with my own eyes, I''d never believe there could be such a young Yuanfu realm expert."

    ¡°The Yi n is really fortunate. Xu Long and Xu Hu are dead, and they obtained great luck. It seems the title of Thousand Waters City''s top n will now rest with the Yi n."

    ¡°Haha, Brother Jiuyang, congrattions...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    After Chen Fan left Thousand Waters City, he captured a flying demon beast and used it as transportation.

    He did this because his injuries had yet to fully recover.

    Riding on the creature, he continued his journey, simultaneously mending his wounds. Time swiftly passed, and ten days psed in the blink of an eye.

    Chen Fan followed the map and continued traveling southwest. Eventually, he reached a in where ferocious storms raged year-round.

 Chapter 310 - Stormy Plains

    <h4>Chapter 310 - Stormy ins</h4>

    Chen Fan rode a flying demon beast; after ten days of travel, he reached a vast in in the southwest of the Wuning Empire.

    The Golden Crowned Eagle did not dare to continue, circling anxiously above and issuing scared squawks.

    <i>Screech, screech.</i>

    Chen Fan looked ahead and took out the map again topare. He realized he had arrived at his destination¡ªthe Wuning Empire¡¯s Stormy ins. He jumped off the eagle,nded on a mountaintop, and looked around.

    He spread out his senses to examine the area.

    He could sense powerful energies fluctuating non-stop in the Stormy ins, which fueled the fearsome whirlwinds tearing across thendscape.

    These whirlwinds were known as Cataclysmic Dragon Gale and could kill even those at the fifth level of the Yuanfu realm. The winds could wreak havoc if unleashed elsewhere.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid of the Cataclysmic Dragon Gale, however.

    Although he had yet to recover from his injuries fully, he was about seventy to eighty percent healed. He was confident that he could kill someone at the seventh level with eighty percent of his power.

    When Chen Fan leaped off the cliff and entered the Stormy ins, some Cataclysmic Dragon Gale swept towards him.

    In the distance, he could see a massive gale, capable of enveloping a mountain, hurtling towards him. Dust clouds rose from the earth, limiting the visibility. It formed terrifying vortexes of heaven and earth primeval qi everywhere it went, tearing through everything. It whipped up dust clouds, obscuring the air and forming daunting vortexes of primeval energy that tore through everything in its path.

    Chen Fan immediately stopped andnded.

    Suddenly, he saw several tall mountains being uprooted by the violent wind and hurled in his direction.

    As he unleashed his aura, a massive mountain collided with it, resulting in a deafening crash that shook the heavens and the earth. A terrifying windstorm swept out, setting off even more gales.

    Therge mountain crumbled into boulders and flew away. Chen Fan was also knocked a hundred meters back, his insides churning. His expression became slightly grave.

    ¡°How exactly were the Stormy ins formed? It''s one thing for the Cataclysmic Dragon Gales to be as sharp as knives, but for them to also hurl massive mountains with such force is astonishing. If I were in the same state as ten days ago, this knock would have worsened my injuries.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, finding it inconceivable. The Stormy ins¡¯ gales couldn''t have formed naturally but must be the result of specific, unusual factors. The entire area''s force field was chaotic.

    A thought suddenly came to Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Is it due to that treasure?¡±

    Shaking his head, Chen Fan continued walking toward the heart of the Stormy ins.

    He consulted his map again, ensuring he was on the right path, and continued towards his goal.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo.</i>

    The terrifying Cataclysmic Dragon Gale raged wildly in the Stormy ins, asionally sweeping mountains across thendscape. Chen Fan would use the Heaven Piercing Spear to make the entire mountain explode, reducing it to dust.

    Two dayster, Chen Fan reached the spot indicated on the map for the hidden treasure deep within the Stormy ins. This area, characterized by its vast, undting hills, seemed to be the correct location.

    ¡°This should be the right ce.¡±

    Chen Fan looked around him. As he nced around, it became apparent that the treasure wasn¡¯t just out there, up for grabs.

    He furrowed his brow. This would turn into a wasted trip if there were no treasures.

    The Cataclysmic Dragon Gale here was particrly fierce here. It could harm even those at the sixth or seventh level, significantly stronger than the winds on the outskirts of the in.

    ¡°That¡¯s not right. The gale seems to spread from here, with this ce as the center. The energy fluctuations here are the most intense. Could the treasure be hidden underground?¡± Chen Fan thought aloud. He narrowed his eyes, looking at the ground underneath his feet.

    From here, Chen Fan could see everything around him at a nce. He suspected that if there was any treasure, it had to be beneath the surface.

    The map only roughly and vaguely indicated the treasure¡¯s location. However, this hilly area was incredibly vast, with a radius of fifty miles, so searching for the treasure alone would be daunting.

    Determined not to leave empty-handed, Chen Fan decided to continue his search.

    After using some drops from the Fountain of Life and giving more than half to his father, grandfather, mother, and uncle, he only had a little more than ten drops left.

    If he couldn¡¯t get this treasure, his cultivation would run into a bottleneck for a while. Chen Fan couldn¡¯t let that happen, as time wasn¡¯t on his side.

    More than a year had passed since Chen Fan made the three-year promise. Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation was improving every day. Once he advanced into the Divine Nascent realm, it would mean that the day of Chen Fan¡¯s doom had arrived.

    ¡°I must find it even if it means I have to dig myself to get to it!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was determined. For the current him, drilling into the ground wasn¡¯t a difficult task at all.

    With a stomp of his feet, a terrifying force erupted from his soles. The earth immediately cracked, cracks spreading outward in all directions like a winding snake.

    ¡°Open!¡±

    Chen Fan rubbed his hands together. The Heaven Piercing Spear quickly appeared.

    Gathering his strength, Chen Fan stabbed the spear into the cracks. The cracks underneath his feet widened with a rumble like a demon beast opening its mouth.

    Chen Fan fell, plummeting into the cracks.

    His cultivation erupted. The primeval force around him spun fiercely, transforming into a sharp awl, rotating at high speed and producing whirring noises like a drill.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The ground quaked as though on the verge of an earthquake, splitting apart under the might of Chen Fan¡¯s primeval force, propelling him further down.

    He continued his descent, stopping only when he was several miles below the surface.

    Here, the rocks became exceedingly dense and hard, pushing Chen Fan to his limits as he struggled to break through.

    Reaching this depth signaled he could go no further down, so he began his horizontal search.

    He kept moving around underground. asionally, he would emerge from the ground and go to another spot to dig again in search of the treasure.

    Chen Fan searched for three days and three nights. In a manner of speaking, he hadpletely overturned the area, yet he still found nothing.

    Chen Fan came out from the ground and stood on a hill with an ugly expression.

    ¡°Damn it, is this treasure map a fake? Is there no treasure hidden here at all?" Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help butin.

    Anyone would be in a foul mood if they came up with nothing after spending so much time and energy.

    Chen Fan took out the three remnant map pieces and checked them again. He sent out a burst of qi from his palm, directly turning them into powder.

    Since it was fake, what use did he have for them?

    Suddenly, a change urred!

 Chapter 311 - Nebulous Mysterious Realm

    <h4>Chapter 311 - Nebulous Mysterious Realm</h4>

    Suddenly, three glowing orbs emerged from the dust of the destroyed map fragments.

    The three bright spots fused and formed the ghostly image of a pce. It flickered and entered the earth, vanishing from sight.

    ¡°This is?¡± Chen Fan was shocked. He hadn''t expected such an extraordinary event to follow the destruction of the map fragments.

    But the surprises weren''t over yet.

    The ground suddenly shook violently, as if caught in an earthquake.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>

    Loud rumbles echoed as dark, gully-like fissures spread across the earth, snaking through the ground like giant serpents.

    Momentster, a golden light beam burst forth from the fissures, shooting up into the sky.

    This beam was incredibly bright and wide, tearing through the clouds and stretching into the horizon. It was a terrifying yet dazzling sight.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The air was filled with the sound of howling winds as the energy in the Stormy ins spiraled out of control. Powerful gusts and the Cataclysmic Dragon Gale wreaked havoc.

    The golden pir could be seen even from a hundred thousand miles away. All the experts in the Wuning Empire became alert, catching sight of the pir tearing through the sky.

    ¡°Did I activate some mechanism for the hidden treasures?¡± Chen Fan was stunned.

    He never expected the secret to be hidden within the map.

    The pieces of the map he''d found were the key to unveiling the treasure, which he had unlocked by sheer luck.

    Immediately, Chen Fan flew toward the light beam; before long, he stood close to it.

    A mysterious, unfathomable energy fluctuation that could kill all existence emanated from above the beam. Cautiously, Chen Fan kept his distance, observing from about thirty steps away.

    ¡°Where¡¯s the entrance to the treasurend?¡±

    Chen Fan found no entry point despite his efforts, which puzzled him.

    He then got closer to the beam, circling it several times in search of an entrance, but found nothing. He felt a bit dejected now.

    Chen Fan looked at the pir and narrowed his eyes slightly. ¡°Could this light pir be the entrance?¡±

    He didn''t act rashly. Picking up a stone, he tossed it toward the beam.

    <i>Bzzzch!</i>

    However, an invisible force turned the rock into dust as soon as it was a meter from the pir. Chen Fan¡¯s hair stood on end.

    Next, he took out a precious knife from his storage ring. This Grade-1 treasure was harder than a rock. He threw it toward the pir of light.

    <i>Chi!</i>

    Yet, like the stone before it, the de turned to dust upon contact with the light.

    ¡°This... this pir of light is so terrifying. Certain death! Is it not the entrance?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned grim, anxious.

    Despite the treasure being within arm''s reach, finding a way to it seemed impossible.

    It felt like standing before a vast treasure trove, separated by an insurmountable barrier. The riches were visible yet unreachable.

    However, this golden pir of light was much more terrifying than a simple barrier. It could turn even a Grade-1 knife into powder. Although Chen Fan was confident in his physique¡¯s toughness, he didn¡¯t dare to risk himself recklessly.

    ¡°What should I do? Themotion earlier likely caught the attention of half the Wuning Empire''s experts. Once theye, I won¡¯t even enjoy a sip of the soup after having done all the work.¡±

    Chen Fan anxiously scratched his head and ears, wrestling with his problem.

    Unable to find an entrance and unwilling to endanger himself, he sat in the lotus position a short distance from the light pir.

    Even if he couldn''t savor the feast, exploring the source would at least be good enough. Otherwise, his efforts would all be in vain.

    Soon, a speck of red light emerged on the eastern horizon.

    The red light grewrger, tinting the surrounding air in its color. If one looked long and hard into the red light, they would see a human silhouette within, hurtling toward Chen Fan faster than the speed of sound.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The red light arrived at the Stormy ins in the blink of an eye. It didn¡¯t slow down for the Cataclysmic Dragon Gales and charged across, directly annihting the gales.

    As the red light streaked over, the human silhouette within was revealed. It was an elder in gray robes.

    ¡°Could it be the Nebulous Divine Pce?¡± the elder wondered aloud. Standing in mid-air, he seemed lost in thought as he looked at the golden pir.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s not that. It¡¯s actually the Nebulous Mysterious Realm!¡± the elder corrected himself, muttering. He cast a nce at Chen Fan and inquired, ¡°Young fellow, did you open this Nebulous Mysterious Realm?¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Reporting to Senior, I happened to be training near the Stormy ins and saw a strange phenomenon in this direction. So, I came here to investigate. I didn¡¯t open it.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Is that right?¡± the elder responded nonchntly, withholding furtherments.

    ¡°Senior, you mentioned something about the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. What does that mean?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    The gray-robed elder said, ¡°Nothing. It¡¯s a good ce.¡±

    Seeing the elder reluctance to borate, Chen Fan didn¡¯t ask any further.

    The gray-robed elder was about to make a move to investigate the pir of light when he suddenly raised his head and looked to the northeast.

    The white clouds split apart on the horizon, revealing a hurtling figure toward them. An invisible de qi sliced through anything in its path, including the intangible air.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    A middle-aged man with a fairplexion and no facial hair, dressed in clothes whiter than snow, flew over. High up in the sky, de qi, with a very domineering and fierce aura, swept around him.

    The gray-robed elder¡¯s gaze became slightly grim when he saw this white-clothed middle-aged man and said, ¡°Xue Wuren, you¡¯re here fast. ¡°

    The white-clothed middle-aged man, Xue Wuren, smiled indifferently and said, ¡°Youpliment my speed, but I¡¯m not faster than your Blood Echeveria Sect. Reverend Zuoqiu, have you found out anything yet?¡±

    Reverend Zuoqiu nodded and said, ¡°Based on my initial assessment, this appears to be the Nebulous Mysterious Realm¡ªthe ancient trial ground created by the Nebulous Divine Pce for its disciples."

    ¡°Oh!¡± Xue Wuren raised his eyebrows.

    During ancient times, the Nebulous Divine Pce was a top-tier sect of the Tianwu Continent, having countless experts in its ranks. However, the blood cmity that affected the entire continent annihted them, making them just another chapter in history.

    ¡°So, it¡¯s the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. It¡¯s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the disciples.¡±

    Suddenly, the temperature plummeted, and snowkes cascaded down without warning, some falling on Chen Fan. Immediately, a chill capable of freezing everything enveloped him.

    A graceful figure emerged from the distant snowfall¡ªan elegant, mature woman exuding a bone-chilling aura.

    ¡°You¡¯re here, Fairy Ice Snow. It seems your Nine Heavens of Ice and Snow Cultivation Technique has reached major mastery.¡±

    de intent spread around Xue Wuren, unaffected by allws. His de qi annihted the drifting snowkes before they could get within thirty feet of him.

    ¡°Hoho, my Nine Heavens of Ice and Snow Cultivation Technique can¡¯tpare to your God ying de Art, Xue Wuren.¡± Fairy Ice Snowughed lightly.

 Chapter 312 - Converging from All Directions

    <h4>Chapter 312 - Converging from All Directions</h4>

    Three high-level Core Formation realm powerhouses had arrived in just a few moments. Their auras left Chen Fan struggling for breath.

    Any of these three could easily kill him.

    However, it was obvious that they were not the only ones attracted to this ce.

    Sure enough, a golden ring of light pierced through the clouds in the southeast, disrupting the airflow. It resembled a massive ball of mes hurtling in this direction, apanied by the ominous sounds of thunder crackling.

    To the south, rain fell destely. Amidst the rain curtain, a gorgeous woman moved gracefully on the water, holding an umbre. She moved quickly, but it created the illusion of a stroll.

    To the west, an elder arrogantly traversed on a channel of light, moving slightly slower than the previous two.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The first to arrive was the absolute beauty with an umbre. Her hair was long and smooth, like a waterfall, and her figure was alluring. She wore a captivating long blue dress that resembled flowing waves, untainted by the dirt.

    The absolute beauty put away her umbre and smiled lightly. ¡°You three arrived so quickly.¡±

    Xue Wuren said, ¡°Clear Water Pce, huh? Your Divine Water Scripture is truly worthy of its reputation. Witnessing it today was extraordinary."

    Long Yunyu said jokingly, ¡°No matter how powerful the Divine Water Scripture is, it can¡¯t rival Brother Xue, splitting the ocean in one de, ughtering a hundred heavy mountains?¡± (ughtering makes no sense here but will be relevant further down.)

    ¡°Haha, I, Tu Zhongshan, am here!¡±

    The golden ring of light tore through the air, showing no signs of slowing down, rushing toward Xue Wuren.

    Suddenly, a scorching, domineering aura permeated the entire Stormy ins. It was like a huge star had perished and descended into the mortal world.

    ¡°You brute, how dare you!¡± Xue Wuren¡¯s brows twitched, and de light burst out from his eyes, breaking through space. He swung his arm, and a terrifying de qi shot out, tearing everything apart.

    ¡°Haha, break!¡± Tu Zhongshanughed loudly. His terrifying cultivation fluctuated as he rubbed his hands together. His arms burst into zing mes, like a god of fire, and he punched.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Stormy ins seemed to tremble as shockwaves from their exchange plowed through the ground, forming deep gullies. Numerous streaks of qi rampaged through the air.

    <i>Poof tch!</i>

    The shockwaves hit Chen Fan, sending him flying like a bup sack. He spewed a big mouthful of blood in the air.

    ¡°Shit!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze darkened.

    He had yet to recover from his injuries fully, but the shockwaves had worsened them further. What a bad omen.

    Reverend Zuoqiu intervened and said, ¡°Enough, you two. It¡¯d be a huge loss if your fight caused any changes to the Nebulous Mysterious Realm.¡±

    ¡°Hmph, Tu Zhongshan, have you gone crazy? If you really want to fight, then set a date,¡± Xue Wuren said in a deep voice.

    ¡°Hehe, we haven¡¯t met in years. I just wanted to see how strong your God ying de Art is. Splitting the ocean in one de and ughtering a hundred heavy mountains, huh? You want to ughter me, Tu Zhongshan, or something?¡± Tu Zhongshan patted his sleeves and snorted coldly. [1]

    ¡°Why are you two doing this? Today isn¡¯t the day to fight it out," Long Yunyu intervened, mediating between the two.

    The elder from the west, shrouded in strong nefarious qi, finally arrived. ¡°Hoho, looks like I came a little toote and missed a good show.¡±

    ¡°Luo Xinglie, your Earth Fiend Sect is the furthest from Stormy ins, yet you arrived so quickly. It seems you¡¯ve improved remarkably in thest couple of years.¡± Reverend Zuoqiuughed.

    ¡°Hoho.¡± Luo Xinglieughed in response, not denying it.

    ¡°Alright, we are the closest to the Stormy ins, so we arrived the earliest. This allows our six sects to investigate the situation before anyone else," remarked Fairy Ice Snow from the Northern Snow Mountain Manor, causing the tense atmosphere to ease.

    Xue Wuren and Tu Zhongshan exchanged nces, snorted simultaneously, and retracted their cultivation.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s investigate together. If I¡¯m not wrong, this should be the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, a trial ground left behind by the Nebulous Divine Pce,¡± Reverend Zuoqiu said.

    The six of them joined hands and made a round of investigations.

    ¡°Everyone should be clear now. The Nebulous Mysterious Realm has undeniably manifested. The entrance should open in ten days. Let¡¯s quickly return to our respective factions and notify the disciples to prepare."

    After some discussion, the six of them departed promptly. Chen Fan crawled out from the dirt with an ugly expression.

    <i>Whew!</i>

    ¡°Nebulous Mysterious Realm? A trial ground for the disciples of the ancient sect Nebulous Divine Pce...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered.

    The entrance would open in ten days. He decided to wait here and use the time to heal his injuries fully. That would increase his chances of getting the treasures and the opportunities within.

    A constant stream of people came and went during that time.

    The news of the Nebulous Mysterious Realm manifesting quickly spread. After all, the phenomenon it caused previously was too noticeable. There was simply no way to hide it.

    A huge number of young martial artists came rushing to the Stormy ins.

    In the beginning, only Chen Fan was present at the location of the pir of light. Within three days, over a hundred individuals had gathered.

    Simultaneously, martial artists from various directions were flocking here. There were experts in the Qigong realm and Yuanfu realm. Chen Fan could even see some Core Formation experts.

    The appearance of the Nebulous Mysterious Realm brought about changes in the force field, gradually restoring a sense of calmness and stopping the Cataclysmic Dragon Gale from wreaking havoc.

    Two to three thousand people gathered near the light pir in just five days, and more arrived intermittently. The moring shook the sky.

    There were young martial artists and also many older martial artists. Everyone looked in the direction of the pir of light with burning gazes.

    Some had sumbed to their greed and approached the pir of light, only to be instantly annihted by an unseen force. The force didn¡¯t spare even Core Formation realm experts. This sobered everyone, forcing them to await the day the mysterious realm would open patiently.

    ¡°With so many people here, if everyone gains entry, then...¡± A trace of worry shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Too many people hade, and these people¡¯s cultivation levels varied greatly.

    If everyone could enter, he would likely get nothing. There were quite a few Core Formation realm experts gathered here. How could someone in the Yuanfu realmpete with them?

    Chen Fan felt helpless.

    After getting the treasure map, he had thought he could get some treasure discreetly. Yet, he had ended up causing such a hugemotion.

    Chen Fan sighed and shut his eyes. He calmed his mind and focused on raising his strength.

    During this recent period, his cultivation had improved rapidly. He was now at the seventh level but could fight against those at the ninth level and easily escape from them if necessary. Unfortunately, his Myriad Elephants Divine Art and the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art had fallen behind.

    Inside him, his original primeval vessel projected an illusory shadow. Chen Fan was currently trying his best to pull out this shadow.

    His physique could withstand the powers of seven illusory primeval vessels. He nned to cultivate seven illusory primeval vessels before the mysterious realm opened.

    That would give him the confidence to go toe to toe with someone at the ninth level.

    As time passed, more people gathered, creating a noisy scene with various cultivation techniques on disy. asional sounds of intense battles added to the chaos.

    Four more days went by in a sh.

    ¡°Phew.¡± Chen Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a mouthful of turbid breath. His aura surged within him, and a satisfied smile appeared on his face.

    Over these days, he sessfully cultivated two more illusory primeval vessels. Now, with seven cultivated, his strength had soared.

    ¡°The mysterious realm will open tomorrow...¡±

    A sharp light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    1. Tu Zhongshan¡¯s name literally means to ughter mountains. ¡°Tu¡± means ¡°to ughter,¡± and ¡°Zhongshan¡± means ¡°heavy mountain.¡± ?

 Chapter 313 â€“ Enter

    <h4>Chapter 313 ¨C Enter</h4>

    Several miles away from the golden pir of light, a few figures with terrifyingly powerful auras stood above the clouds, looking at the golden pir. Among them, Reverend Zuoqiu spoke up.

    ¡°Everyone, the Nebulous Mysterious Realm is a significant matter. This ancient trial ground is filled with countless treasures. We are the major sects in the area. I suggest we monopolize the realm by getting rid of all these people!¡±

    The others pondered. Long Yunyu shook her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t. The news of the realm has already spread across over half of the Wuning Empire. Disciples from neighboring empires'' sects, as well as from other Wuning Empire sects, have already gathered. Stopping them is beyond us.¡±

    The others nodded one after another.

    They came from six different sects; although their sects were powerful and influential, they weren¡¯t the only sects in the Wuning Empire.

    If they tried to force these individuals out, they would report back to their sects. The collective might of these sects would demand answers from the six major sects then¡ªa situation they were ill-equipped to handle.

    One way to ovee that situation was to kill everyone not from the six major sects. However, this was obviously impossible.

    Such an action, if discovered, could lead to the downfall of their six sects, a loss far outweighing any potential gain.

    ¡°Rest assured. Our six major sects, being nearest to the Stormy ins, were the first to arrive after hearing the news. We have also brought our most skilled disciples. The other sects don''t have this edge.¡±

    ¡°Many people here were out training and rushed here after receiving the news. They are weak, and once inside the mysterious realm, they won''t stand a chance against our members," said Luo Xinglie with a confident smile.

    Fairy Ice Snow said, ¡°He¡¯s right. This time, the appearance of the Nebulous Mysterious Realm is a huge opportunity for our sects. If we join hands, we can pocket most of the opportunities in the mysterious realm.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. Since you put it that way, our sects will join hands this time. What do you think?¡± Xue Wuren said.

    Reverend Zuoqiu, Long Yunyu, and the others nodded one after another.

    Too many people havee, but the six major sects held the geographical advantage. If they joined hands, they would reap the greatest harvest.

    Then, the awaited day arrived.

    At midday, with many eyes watching, the golden pir of light began to transform.

    A green light, over a hundred meters wide, emerged. It slowly solidified into a massive portal of green light.

    ¡°The entrance has appeared! Charge!¡±

    ¡°Quick, to the entrance! I''ll seize this chance to gather treasures and break through to the Core Formation stage, haha!"

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    Unable to contain their excitement, some people immediately rushed toward the entrance. They stirred fierce winds, and some even attacked others on the way.

    But then, cries of agony filled the air.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Of the twenty or so who charged at the entrance right away, fewer than half made it through the light door. The majority exploded and died at first contact with the door of light, turning into blood mist.

    This sight quickly cooled the fervor of the crowd, which had been rushing forward like a swarm. They halted abruptly, a wave of cold fear washing over them, freezing them in ce. Faces painted with horror and eyes wide with shock, they just stared.

    ¡°What is happening?¡±

    ¡°People died! People died!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was gripped by confusion and fear.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish</i>.

    Several experts with terrifying auras flew over from the distant clouds.

    Reverend Zuoqiu went up to check. Then, he said, ¡°The Nebulous Divine Pce set up this training ground for their disciples. It¡¯s not a ce ordinary people can enter.

    ¡°The entrance is guarded by ancient safeguards. Despite the passage of time, these protections are still active.

    ¡°The restrictions can urately determine the skeletal age of martial artists. Anyone over the age of twenty-five is met with lethal force, ensuring their immediate death."

    Understanding dawned on the crowd.

    The crowd remembered the individuals who had perished were all over twenty-five. No wonder they met such a violent end upon touching the light door.

    Reverend Zuoqiu added, ¡°Also, based on my observation, this trial is likely intended for disciples below the Core Formation stage. So, anyone in the Core Formation realm might want to sit this one out. But, of course, you''re wee to test the waters if you doubt my words.¡±

    The crowd stirred restlessly as his voice fell, as there were quite a few Core Formation realm experts in the crowd.

    A young man with a yellowish face at the first level of the Core Formation realm decided to challenge Reverend Zuoqiu''s advice. His attempt ended in agony as soon as he touched the light door.

    Before the shocked eyes of onlookers, he swelled and exploded violently, leaving nothing behind.

    Immediately, countless people sucked in a breath of cold air.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    That yellow-faced youth was talented enough to be a Core Formation realm expert by twenty-five. He had a bright future ahead of him, but it was a pity that greed got the better of him. In the end, he wasn¡¯t even qualified to regret it.

    ¡°Hoho, ignore the words of your elders at your own peril.¡± Reverend Zuoqiuughed lightly.

    ¡°Haaa... seems like this chance wasn''t meant for me."

    ¡°How frustrating. I¡¯m twenty-six this year. I could have entered if this realm had appeared a year earlier. Just my luck."

    ¡°.....¡±

    Immediately, more than half of the over ten thousand people gathered looked helpless.

    They were either over twenty-five or had already advanced to the Core Formation realm, disqualifying them from entering.

    Reverend Zuoqiu didn¡¯tment any further and turned towards the disciples of the Blood Echeveria Sect. ¡°Alright, eligible disciples of Blood Echeveria Sect, go on in.¡±

    ¡°Clear Water Pce disciples, you head on in as well.¡±

    ¡°Earth Fiend Sect disciples, quickly enter.¡±

    ¡°Northern Snow Mountain Manor...¡±

    ¡°Raging Inferno Pce...¡±

    ¡°de Saint Mountain...¡±

    Long Yunyu and the others also had their respective sects¡¯ eligible disciples enter the mysterious realm.

    Eligible people flew up at once, rushing toward the entrance of the Nebulous Mysterious realm like a swarm of locusts, each fearing they would best.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Human silhouettes covered the sky and the ground.

    Even though more than half of the people were not qualified to enter, three to four thousand remained. Densely packed in a swarm, they squeezed their way over, forming an endless stream of people, moving forward with great momentum.

    Some couldn''t contain theirpetitiveness, fighting along the way. A few didn''t even make it inside before meeting their end in these conflicts.

    Chen Fan was mixed in the crowd and did not draw anyone¡¯s attention. With a pop, he made his way into the door of light.

    As soon as he entered the door of light, Chen Fan felt a distortion in space pulling at him wantonly. He felt dizzy and couldn¡¯t sense anything.

    As quickly as it began, the chaos subsided, and he found himself on an elevated terrain.

 Chapter 314 - Primeval Devouring Worm

    <h4>Chapter 314 - Primeval Devouring Worm</h4>

    Looking around him, Chen Fan found himself in a stream of people, densely packed together.

    Upon entering the mysterious realm, everyone appeared at the same ce.

    Looking up, Chen Fan caught sight of the light door, hovering a hundred meters in the air. It was very eye-catching.

    ¡°It seems like this door is both the entrance and the exit," Chen Fan murmured to himself before quickly flying into the distance.

    Others followed suit, dispersing in various directions promptly.

    After traversing about a mile, Chen Fan stumbled upon a nt with golden branches and jade-like leaves sprouting from the crevices between colossal rocks.

    ¡°Jade-Leafed Golden Stalk!¡±

    ¡°Such a valuable treasure, that too right after entering the mysterious realm... This really is a treasurend of some ancient, powerful sect. If I hand it over to the sect, I can earn at least five hundred contribution points.¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly. He bent down, preparing to harvest the Jade-Leafed Golden Stalk.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, a huge python lunged forward from behind the rocks.

    The huge python opened its mouth wide. A foul stench assaulted Chen Fan¡¯s nose as it bit at him.

    This Ironrock Python was as strong as a Yuanfu realm expert at the fifth level.

    Chen Fan did not panic and thrust his palm out. His strength erupted, and qi currents churned, sending the Ironrock Python flying back dozens of meters.

    Chen Fan was surprised.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    The Ironrock Python didn¡¯t look at all injured and even lunged at him again.

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike had been a mild attack, but that should have been enough to severely injure someone at the fifth level, maybe even kill them.

    ¡°Well... it is an ancient demon beast. God knows how many natural treasures it must have consumed. That must have made its defenses stronger than that of ordinary fifth-level experts.¡± Chen Fan quickly came to a realization.

    The Nebulous Mysterious Realm, annihted by the blood cmity, used to test and train its disciples here. The Ironrock Python had existed since ancient times, making it undoubtedly much more formidable than other demon beasts of its level.

    ¡°Die.¡±

    Chen Fan punched, using fifty percent of his strength this time.

    A furious roar echoed through space as his attack shot out like aet, directly obliterating the Ironrock Python.

    Three youths happened to be passing by and immediately noticed the Jade-Leafed Golden Stalk in Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Jade-Leafed Golden Stalk! Well, what a stroke of luck! Kid, kneel and hand it over to us, along with your storage ring. We brothers will spare your worthless life then. Otherwise, this will be your final resting ce. You understand?¡± they threatened with sinister expressions and menacing auras.

    Chen Fan nced at the trio, noting their simr appearances, indicating that they were blood-rted.

    Their clothing said that they didn¡¯t belong to a sect in the Wuning Empire, probably rogue cultivators. They were at the seventh level and could be called decently strong.

    ¡°What are you spacing out for? Kneel and offer the treasure to us with both hands. Do you want us to break your legs or what!¡± said one of the brothers with a sinister expression; he was at the early stage of the seventh level.

    The three brothers were well-acquainted with such acts of robbery, havingmitted them frequently in the outside world.

    ¡°Break my legs? With just you three losers?¡± Chen Fanughed disdainfully, tucking away the Jade-Leafed Golden Stalk.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Bastard, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    The second and third brothers immediately grew enraged. Their auras boiled like water, surging with nefarious qi. It became suffocating.

    ¡°Kill him!¡± said the oldest brother viciously, an icy light flickering in his eyes.

    ¡°Die, bastard!¡± The third brother attacked immediately, moving like a fierce tiger, and his every punch roared thunderously. His primeval force transformed into vortexes, his fists capable of piercing iron walls.

    Rolling Stone Breaker!

    All of a sudden, the qi currents in the air surged. A gale blew, and he felt like massive boulders were smashing into him.

    Chen Fan struck out with a palm without looking.

    Seeminglycking force, his palm appeared soft and boneless. His opponent grinned evilly and taunted, ¡°Kid, you dare to resist us with just this bit of strength? It seems the saying ''not knowing what''s good for you'' was made for you..."

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    To his astonishment, as his words trailed off, Chen Fan''s palm seal suddenly changed.

    Dragon-elephants hissed like a powerful army with great momentum. It seemed as though ancient wild elephants had materialized in space, fiercely trampling the air.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    The third brother instantly sensed the looming aura of death. His expression darkened as he contemted retracting his arms and retreating, but it was already toote.

    He failed to withstand this ferocious blow; his entire arm crumbled. The terrifying strength made him explode, his blood and flesh flying everywhere.

    ¡°Third Brother!¡±

    ¡°Third Brother!¡±

    The eldest and the second brother yelled when they saw their third brother dying in the blink of an eye; their eyes went wide with rage.

    ¡°You damnable bastard, you killed my third brother. I want you dead!¡± roared the eldest, bursting with murderous intent. However, he refrained from striking recklessly. He had realized that while his opponent was also at the seventh level, he was not to be underestimated.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. Your fate was sealed the moment you attacked me," Chen Fan remarked indifferently, shaking his head as he approached the remaining two.

    ¡°Get him!¡± shouted the eldest brother, his eyes flickering.

    He suddenly swung his arm. Immediately, three ck dots of light shot out from under his sleeves like ck lightning.

    ¡°Using such underhanded tactics in front of me. Do you think it will work?¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. He reached out, primeval force surging in his palm, and effortlessly caught the three lights, neutralizing them.

    ¡°Haha, you fell for it, bastard! Did you think those were hidden weapons? Hahaha, let me tell you, those are Primeval Devouring Worms. They devour martial artists¡¯ primeval force! You¡¯re finished! You¡¯re dead!¡± The eldest brother immediately burst out in a maniacalughter.

    Chen Fan also sensed something amiss.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    He immediately felt a stinging pain in his palm.

    Chen Fan opened his palm and realized that something had torn open his protective primeval force. There were three bloody holes in his palm, and he could vaguely see that the three ck dots had entered his flesh.

    A sense of dread washed over Chen Fan as he felt his primeval force rapidly draining away as if being consumed by some unseen force.

    Seeing the changes on Chen Fan¡¯s face, the eldest brother howled withughter, ¡°Haha, how is it? You can feel your primeval force being devoured, right?¡±

    The second brother wore a malevolent grin, his expression twisted with malice. ¡°Bastard, you''ll beg for death once the Primeval Devouring Wormpletely drains your primeval force. How dare you kill my brother! There''s nowhere for you to run!"

    Chen Fan''s face contorted in agony as he sensed the Primeval Devouring Worm infiltrating his meridians, swiftly devouring his primeval force along his meridians.

    ¡°Primeval Devouring Worm...¡± Chen Fan mumbled to himself. With a thought, the Heaven Seizing Furnace started revolving. The heaven-refining mes surged within him as he directed them. Soon, the mes engulfed the three worms.

    <i>Tss, tss, tssssss...</i>

    <i>Jiji, jijiji...</i>

    The heaven-refining mes could refine all matter. The mes quickly enveloped the worms, dragged them into the Heaven Seizing Furnace, and refined them. The worms could squeak as they died.

    Suddenly, the eldest brother, whose consciousness was linked to the Primeval Devouring Worms, coughed up arge quantity of blood. He stared at Chen Fan in astonishment and eximed, ¡°You...¡±

 Chapter 315 - Qiu Beihai

    <h4>Chapter 315 - Qiu Beihai</h4>

    The Primeval Devouring Worms had a mental connection with the eldest brother. They were on the brink of death due to the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s refinement.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Soon, the mind imprint connecting the eldest brother and the Primeval Devouring Worms vanished, and he immediately spewed out arge mouthful of fresh blood.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± The eldest brother looked at Chen Fan in disbelief.

    ¡°What happened, Big Brother?¡± The second brother hurriedly asked, noticing that something was amiss.

    The eldest brother said, ¡°The connection has been severed. Right before that, I sensed the Primeval Devouring Worms sensing their imminent deaths.¡±

    ¡°What! How is that possible?!¡± eximed the second brother in shock, unable to believe it.

    They had stumbled upon the eggs of Primeval Devouring Worms, ancient insects, in an ancient ruin.

    Upon hatching, the worms formed a bond with the eldest brother''s mind.

    Over the years, the three brothers had relied on this killer move and plotted against many people, including those much stronger than them. None of them escaped from their methods.

    The Primeval Devouring Worms specialized in devouring primeval force. The worms left their victims powerless, rendering years of hard-earned strength null and leaving them to the three brothers¡¯ mercy.

    They hadn¡¯t expected that they would have to resort to using the Primeval Devouring Worms for Chen Fan, a brat at the seventh level. However, they were aghast when he killed their third brother with a single punch.

    And just when they thought that Chen Fan was as good as a cooked meal, thanks to the worms, he had flipped the tables again.

    The worms that had brought them countless victories had unexpectedly died at Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible. You can deal with others using the worms, but not with me.¡± Chen Fan stared at the horrified brothers with a faint smile. ¡°My methods aren¡¯t something you can imagine.¡±

    ¡°Run!¡± shouted the eldest and chopped at Chen Fan.

    The de light was like silk, breaking through the air. The wind whimpered desperately, captivating one¡¯s mind, and he quickly turned to escape.

    ¡°Did you think you could escape?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly and struck out with a palm. The blood-colored de light directly shattered.

    ¡°Die!¡± With a cold shout, Chen Fan¡¯s primeval force rose, and he punched out with his iron-like fist.

    Like a cannonball, his punch rushed out, crushing all obstacles. The space shook violently from the force. A deathly aura shrouded the fleeing brothers.

    ¡°Second brother, I¡¯ll avenge you in the future!¡± A fierce light flickered in the eldest brother¡¯s eyes. Suddenly, he struck his brother¡¯s chest with a palm strike. The second brother flew back, spewing blood, and absorbed the force from Chen Fan¡¯s punch.

    ¡°No!¡± The second brother hadn¡¯t expected his eldest brother to do that. However, his consciousness soon dissipated as he exploded like a watermelon.

    Seeing that the eldest brother had already sped off far away, Chen Fan smiled coldly and didn¡¯t make another move. He turned around and left.

    Afterward, Chen Fan slew numerous demon beasts as he went around in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, obtaining plenty of natural treasures.

    Thousands of people had entered the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, so there were killings everywhere.

    An ancient, old stone pavilion stood by a tranquilke.

    Within the pavilion, a young man dressed in white held an ancient martial arts manual with pride. With a confident grin, he addressed the dozens before him and said, ¡°You¡¯re not running even after seeing I, Qiu Beihai? Then remain here forever!¡±

    The crowd¡¯splexions instantly paled.

    Their pursuit of an earth-tier ancient martial arts manual had unwittingly drawn the attention of Qiu Beihai, the killing star.

    He was ranked tenth in the empire''s Yuanfu Realm Influential Figures Leaderboard, and his cultivation was in the Illusory Core realm. He had effortlessly seized the coveted manual; now, he was after their lives.

    ¡°Run!¡± The crowd immediately scattered off in all directions.

    The ancient martial arts manual was important, but the answer was obvious if they had to choose between that and their lives.

    ¡°Hoho.¡± Qiu Beihai leisurely drew his de, seeing the crowd trying to flee. ¡°Running won''t save you. Die, all of you!¡±

    A crimson arc of de light sliced through the air, cutting down everyone in its path.

    Despite their efforts to defend themselves, their efforts proved futile. It sliced through them, blood sttering everywhere.

    ¡°How is it so terrifying? How is Qiu Beihai so terrifying?!¡±

    ¡°Ah, quickly run! Use blood shields!¡±

    Panicked voices rang out constantly.

    ¡°Hahahaha, once my blood de is out, it won¡¯t return to its sheath until I cut down all my enemies! ughter everyone, die!¡± Qiu Beihaiughed cruelly. The murderous qi in hisughter rushed up into the clouds.

    A chilling crimson de light shed, apanied by agonizing screams. Countless died under the cruel onught of that de. Each strike etched deep, jagged marks into the earth while a river of blood gushed, staining the once sereneke a sinister red hue.

    ¡°Can¡¯t even withstand a single blow. So boring.¡± Qiu Beihai shook his head. He sheathed his de and turned to leave. Not a hint of blood was there on his moon-white long robes.

    ......

    In a basin:

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Harrowing cries echoed incessantly as several figures with sharp fangs seized their prey, draining their victims of life in mere moments.

    In three breaths, all the blood in a sixth-level Yuanfu realm expert was drained, leaving him a shriveled-up husk.

    ¡°Blood demons... You¡¯re blood demons!!!¡±

    The survivors were horrified, their faces contorted with a mix of terror and fury.

    They had stumbled upon the treasures in this basin. The blood demons appeared abruptly when they were about to retrieve the treasures. These people were willing to give up on the treasures because their opponents had powerful cultivations.

    Unexpectedly, their opponents had no interest in the treasures but instead thirsted for blood. In a swift and merciless onught, more than ten individuals met their demise, sucked dry of their blood.

    ¡°Keke, that¡¯s right, you guessed it. So, you shall be rewarded with death!¡± The blood demons smiled sinisterly and pounced at them, carrying overwhelming bloody auras.

    ¡°Ahhh, no! Please, spare us!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a core disciple of the Chill Wind Sect. The sect elders will surely avenge me if you kill me.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯te to me, don¡¯te to me...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The echoes of the screams soon faded, leaving a somber silence that enveloped the basin.

    ¡°Oh, what a pity. They weren¡¯t strong enough. The strongest in their group was merely at the sixth level. Their blood simply didn¡¯t have that vor,¡± said a blood demon with a pout, wiping the blood at the corners of his lips away.

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s easy. This realm is teeming with formidable experts. We''ll find plenty to sate our thirst," said another blood demon with a chuckle.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get careless. Even experts on the Wuning Empire¡¯s influential figures leaderboard have entered. These people aren¡¯t weak at all. We should avoid them if we run into them," cautioned an eighth-level Yuanfu realm blood demon.

    ¡°True, the top ten individuals on that leaderboard are formidable opponents. Xue Tianhe will deal with them. We¡¯d better suck more blood and raise our strengths. We can¡¯t let Xue Tianhe leave us in the dust.¡±

 Chapter 316 - Seizing Food from the Tigerâ€™s Mouth

    <h4>Chapter 316 - Seizing Food from the Tiger¡¯s Mouth</h4>

    Chen Fan explored the Nebulous Mysterious Realm for two days and obtained a decent harvest of natural treasures.

    Throughout this adventure, he killed many people and found himself being hunted by some others.

    Many people had entered the mysterious realm, some of whom were true experts. The person trying to catch him yesterday was at the peak of the ninth level, much stronger than the Zhao n¡¯s patriarch, Zhao Hong.

    ¡°This must be the heart of this realm.¡±

    An impressive ancient city loomed before Chen Fan. Its towering walls, constructed of ck iron, hinted at its grandeur. Scores of young martial artists converged on the city from every direction.

    ¡°This ancient city is undoubtedly the heart of the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. It''s bound to hold countless treasures!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up.

    Above all, he sought a powerful martial art, not primeval stones or elixirs. The techniques he practiced were bing increasingly insufficient for his needs.

    Chen Fan dashed into the ancient city, eager to explore.

    The buildings inside the ancient city were different from the outside world. Aside from the straight streets, there were pces and towers everywhere.

    ¡°Run! Xin Wuming is inside!¡±

    ¡°What, the Murderous Demon Xin Wuming!¡±

    ¡°Shit, quickly run!¡±

    In a pce in the distance, about a dozen people were flying away, wailing like ghosts and howling like wolves. They used everything they had to increase their eleration, wishing for an extra pair of legs to run away even faster.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A streak of sword light sliced through the air, and the dozen or so individuals met a gruesome end, their limbs scattered all over the ground.

    ¡°Hahahaha! What useless insects!¡± A maniacalughter echoed from the pce''s depths.

    ¡°Xin Wuming...¡± Chen Fan furrowed his brow.

    That streak of sword light earlier was extremely sharp.

    Xin Wuming¡¯s attainments in the way of the sword were simply incredible. It carried a hint of sword intent, mighty enough to y all gods and mortals that crossed its path.

    Moreover, Chen Fan sensed that Xin Wuming¡¯s cultivation had reached the Illusory Core realm. He was much stronger than Zhao Tianjue.

    Despite having cultivated seven illusory primeval vessels, Chen Fan felt uncertain about challenging an Illusory Core realm expert.

    Chen Fan quickly moved away and entered a nearby pce. He understood that he was no match for Xin Wuming right now.

    Upon entering the pce, Chen Fan noticed a main hall ahead, from which soft voices could be heard.

    <i>Seems like I¡¯m not the only one here.</i>

    He withdrew his aurapletely and approached the main hall.

    Chen Fan''s cautious approach was understandable. The realm had attracted numerous formidable experts, and he was only in the middle of the pack here.

    Deep within the main hall, three doors stood to the sides, each adorned with unique carvings.

    He saw that about a dozen disciples from various sects were in a standoff, each vying to be the first toy im to the treasures beyond those doors.

    ¡°Everyone, we¡¯re from the Extreme Profundity Sect. Crossing us means inviting death!"

    ¡°Hmph, what dogshit Extreme Profundity Sect, it¡¯s nothing but a garbage sect! We¡¯re disciples of the Cloud Heaven Pce. Qiu Beihai, ranked tenth on the Influential Figures Leaderboard, is our senior brother. Get lost, or face certain death when Senior Brother Qiu Beihai arrives!"

    ¡°Qiu Beihai is powerful, but he¡¯s not here right now. Who would know if we killed you all on the spot? And since you¡¯re looking to die, we''ll dly oblige!"

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chaos erupted as the two parties shed violently.

    The entire pce shook fiercely. The floor cracked, and the fissures spread. The sound the resulting qi explosions rose and fell.

    Chen Fan hid in a dark corner, observing the battle between the two parties.

    Extreme Profundity Sect had seven disciples, two of whom were at the eighth level, while the remaining five were at the seventh level.

    On the Cloud Heaven Pce¡¯s side, there were only four people. However, they had three people at the eighth level and one at the seventh level.

    Despite being outnumbered, the Cloud Heaven Pce disciples disyed superiorbat prowess. Their additional expert at the eighth level put the Extreme Profundity Sect at a disadvantage.

    Chen Fan remained hidden.

    Although he wasn¡¯t afraid of them, he didn¡¯t want to take on the wrath of both sides by showing himself. He nned to suppress the victor with overwhelming strength and seize the treasures.

    The battle soon reached a climax as casualties gradually appeared.

    A seventh-level Yuanfu realm disciple from the Extreme Profundity Sect died, and someone at the seventh level on the other side was severely injured.

    The two parties had seemingly decided to fight until theirst breath. Their attacks became increasingly vicious.

    After a grueling quarter-hour, three disciples from the Extreme Profundity Sect died, while one eighth-level Yuanfu realm disciple from the Cloud Heaven Pce met their end.

    <i>Tap, tap, tap, tap, tap...</i>

    Amidst the chaos, the rhythmic tapping of footsteps cut through the tension, leading to a momentary ceasefire as all eyes looked in the footsteps¡¯ direction.

    ¡°Who is it?¡± someone called out warily.

    Stepping into view, Chen Fan addressed both parties. ¡°You guys continue. Don¡¯t mind me.¡±

    ¡°Brat, get lost! Or you''ll be the next to fall!¡± shouted a youth from the Cloud Heaven Pce; he was at the eighth level.

    Both sides understood the implications of Chen Fan''s timely appearance.

    This person wanted to snatch the food from the tiger¡¯s mouth, but with just his seventh-level Yuanfu realm cultivation?

    ¡°Let''s put this on hold for a moment. I''ll get rid of this idiot trying to y the oriole,¡± said a youth with heavy injuries, stepping out and flying over to Chen Fan. He was at the eighth level and from the Extreme Profundity Sect.

    Chen Fan was only at the seventh level, so he thought he could kill Chen Fan despite his injuries.

    In a battle where life hung in the bnce, there was no room for others to watch from the side and covet their treasures.

    ¡°Brat, go die!¡± This youth with thick eyebrows put two fingers together like a sword and pointed at Chen Fan¡¯s brow.

    ¡°Star Pointing Finger, Big Dipper!¡±

    A faint dark blue shimmer appeared at the tip of the youth¡¯s fingers. He pointed seven times in the air at great speed and carved out the pattern of the seven stars of the Big Dipper.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    Several lights shed from his fingers, piercing through the air with a force as sharp as a de, shooting toward Chen Fan mercilessly.

    ¡°Extinguish!¡± Chen Fan spat out indifferently. He drew his sword and swung it.

    Immediately, an iparably cold sword light appeared in space, tearing the air apart. With a sweep, the light of the seven stars of the Big Dipper from his fingers was gone.

    With another swish, the youth didn¡¯t even get the time to cry before he was split in half.

    ¡°What?¡± The Extreme Profundity Sect and the Cloud Heaven Pce¡¯s disciples were dumbstruck.

    Even though that youth with thick eyebrows had suffered injuries and only had about sixty to seventy percent of hisbat strength, he should have had no problem dealing with someone at the seventh level.

    However, Chen Fan had easily cleaved the youth with a single sh. Something was seriously amiss.

    ¡°Bastard, how dare you kill our Extreme Profundity Sect¡¯s disciple!¡±

    The Extreme Profundity Sect¡¯s disciples were immediately enraged.

 Chapter 317 - Northern Star Reaper Hand

    <h4>Chapter 317 - Northern Star Reaper Hand</h4>

    ¡°What, I¡¯m not allowed to kill him?¡± Chen Fan looked at that Extreme Profundity Sect disciple with a vague smile.

    The eighth-level disciple¡¯s expression stiffened. Next, a fiercer light flickered in his eyes, and he looked at the Cloud Heaven Pce disciples and said, ¡°He Changzai, what do you think?¡±

    He had realized that Chen Fan was no simple opponent. Someone who could easily kill an injured eighth-level Yuanfu realm expert had to be, at least, as strong as eighth-level experts.

    Thus, he wanted to drag the Cloud Heaven Pce¡¯s disciples into the fight. He didn¡¯t want their side to die fighting Chen Fan and end up benefiting the Cloud Heaven Pce.

    The leading eighth-level Yuanfu realm disciple from Cloud Heaven Pce, He Changzai, raised his eyebrow. Naturally, he understood what the other person meant. He answered, ¡°Fine, let''s coborate to deal with this brat. Let¡¯s see how strong he is!¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. We shouldn''t prolong this. More interference couldplicate matters,¡± said the Extreme Profundity Sect¡¯s youth with a unibrow.

    ¡°Alright!¡± He Changzai nodded.

    ¡°ming Deste Fist!¡± He Changzai shouted. He leaped off the ground, delivering a powerful punch toward Chen Fan with the force of a soaring roc.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A cacophony of fiery sparks erupted, engulfing the vicinity as the mes from his punch scorched the air, emitting a deep rumble.

    ¡°Dire mes!¡± The unibrow youth pointed with his finger, his finger emitting a dazzling light that tore through the air, apanied by a resonating chi noise.

    Piercing noises rang out in space.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Countless attacks shot toward Chen Fan, sealing all ways of retreat. The finger strikes were like a volley of arrows aiming to riddle Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan relied on his sharp eyes to move around and dodge them. His cultivation gathered in his hand as he rubbed his hands together; with a resounding creak, the Heaven Piercing Spear materialized in his grasp. His tendons and bones hissed as the silhouettes of ancient wild elephants manifested behind him.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan shouted, his voice rumbling like thunder. The air directly exploded.

    His muscles tensed like taut bowstrings, channeling immense power to the spear''s tip.

    A rumbling sound rang out, and it seemed like a mountain river had reversed its flow, and the stars were shaking violently. The pce itself groaned under the strain of such formidable strength, its structure beginning to crack.

    In a single thrust, the spear obliterated everything in his path. The ming Deste Fist technique disintegrated instantly, while the barrage of finger lights was torn to shreds by the spear¡¯s invisible force.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    The qi in the area stormed, and explosions rang out, apanied by fierce gusts of wind,

    <i>Wha, ahhh.</i>

    He Changzai, the unibrow youth, and the others flew back from the impact, blood spraying from their mouths as they struggled to regain their bnce.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    He Changzai and the others¡¯ faces turned pale in disbelief.

    Though not in perfect condition, two groups had joined forces to attack Chen Fan. Collective strength like that could even threaten someone at the ninth level. Yet, he had destroyed their attacks with one strike.

    The overwhelming force crashed into them like the weight of a mountain, leaving them reeling in its wake.

    ¡°Could he be a genius on the Influential Figures Leaderboard?¡±

    ¡°Impossible. I know everyone on that list, and he''s not among them!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    He Changzai and the unibrow youth¡¯s groups were rattled, struggling to maintain theirposure before Chen Fan''s incredible strength.

    Realizing the futility of their situation, He Changzai and the unibrow youth swiftly issued the order to retreat.

    ¡°Withdraw!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t go after them. Instead, he entered one of the doors.

    Beyond the door was a small area, less than ten square meters wide, with a stone tform upon which rested a purple wooden box. Inside, he discovered an ancient martial arts manual.

    Chen Fan walked over and picked up the secret martial arts manual.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    On the cover of the secret manual were a few ancient-looking words. Chen Fan opened the secret manual, and his eyes immediately lit up.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand was a lower-earth tier martial skill.

    ¡°Great. Ick a powerful martial skill. Practicing this Northern Star Reaper Hand willpensate for that shoring.¡±

    Chen Fan put the martial arts manual away with a smile.

    He walked out and entered the other two doors, each revealing exceptional Grade-3 treasures of considerable value.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t leave immediately. Instead, he started practicing the Northern Star Reaper Hand in the pce.

    ......

    Inside the pce, Chen Fan¡¯s primeval force surged. A creamy-white palm silhouette appeared.

    This palm silhouette was very strange. It only had three fingers, like a bird¡¯s w.

    Twisted runes, crafted from star qi, adorned these fingers, spelling out the characters for ¡°Absolute,¡± ¡°Destroy,¡± and ¡°Cripple.¡±

    Chen Fan waved his palm, and this star qi w struck out.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    With a rumble, it collided with arge, iron-coated pir within the pce. Despite leaving a discernible inch-deep imprint, Chen Fan was disappointed with the oue.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand, a legacy lower-earth tier martial skill, should have wielded far greater power. Yet, his earlier palm strike failed to even match the power of a lower-profound tier martial skill.

    ¡°What did I do wrong?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, puzzled.

    The difference in strength between martial arts tiers was significant, with each tier exponentially stronger than thest.

    Lower-earth tier martial skills were rare treasures even in the Spring Autumn Sect, with disciples considering themselves fortunate to acquire an upper-profound tier technique.

    However, his attacks using the Northern Star Reaper Hand were unexpectedly weaker than even a lower-profound tier martial skill¡¯s attacks. If word of this were to spread, many would dieughing.

    ¡°Maybe I made a mistake. Is my primeval force not following the specified route?¡±

    Chen Fan picked up the Northern Star Reaper Hand¡¯s manual and reread it carefully. He executed the move again, ensuring the qi flow was correct. Still, its output didn¡¯t increase by much.

    "It''s not a matter of cirction. Then what could it be?" Chen Fan was distressed.

    He had finally obtained a powerful martial skill, but its performance had beenckluster. It left him disappointed and puzzled.

    Chen Fan also did not suspect this secret martial arts manual was fake.

    Although he had limited knowledge of Nebulous Divine Pce¡¯s history, he knew they wouldn¡¯t use fake martial arts to fool their sect¡¯s disciples. That was simply impossible.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand...¡± Chen Fan''s mind raced, tirelessly working to discover the cause behind his inability to master the technique.

    He did not give up just like that. Instead, he kept draining his primeval force to practice the martial skill, trying to discover the problem.

    However, there was no hint of improvement even after a night passed.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper... Northern Star Reaper...¡± Chen Fan repeated the name to himself, his mind tirelessly searching for answers. asionally, sparks of insight flickered in his eyes, hinting at a revtion.

    Suddenly, a brilliant light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He muttered, ¡°Reaper... reaper... Could it be that I need to have the intent to kill when I strike? This is a great killing technique. A reaper has to annihte everything with a single palm.

    ¡°That must be it. So, to cultivate this technique, I first have to understand the concept of reaping lives. When I strike, I must infuse the idea of reaping lives into my palm. That is the only way it can be called the Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    Chen Fan pped andughed as he finally figured out the key point.

 Chapter 318 - Qi Yun, Meng Chong

    <h4>Chapter 318 - Qi Yun, Meng Chong</h4>

    Having grasped the key point of the martial arts technique, Chen Fanughed and pped, beaming with joy.

    Earth tier martial skills stood as the pinnacle within the Great Chu Empire; they were ten times as powerful as profound tier martial skills.

    Their power was unmatched, requiring not just rigorous training but also the infusion of unique conceptual powers. Mastery of these skills demanded the embodiment of such concepts to unleash their full might.

    For instance, Duan Jingtian''s Heavenly Cold Winter God Force embodied an overwhelmingly chilling intent. This kind of chilling intent could cover the world in snow, freezing the surrounding area.

    Chen Fan hadn¡¯t encountered an earth tier martial skill yet. So, he initially approached his practice of the Northern Star Reaper Hand with methods suited for martial arts of lower tiers, which yielded no sess.

    Although the Heaven Piercing Spear was also at least earth tier, being part of the Heaven Seizing Art, it didn''t rely on conceptual powers. Instead, it grew stronger with Chen Fan''s cultivation level.

    Aware of the key point now, Chen Fan''s demeanor shifted to seriousness as he focused on manifesting the intent of reaping lives¡ªleaving no survivors with each strike.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    Chen Fan kept practicing as he mulled over the intent of reaping lives in his heart.

    Although his conceptualization wasn¡¯t considered very strong, upon infusing it into his palm strike, the power of his Northern Star Reaper Hand immediately became more devastating.

    ¡°I knew it!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up, confirming he was on the right track.

    Chen Fan took a moment to collect himself, reminiscing about his journey on the path of martial arts over the past year and the lessons he had learned.

    Understanding conceptualization wasn''t a simple feat; it often required immense effort, energy, or even luck.

    Memories of his experiences from the past year flooded Chen Fan''s mind, especially events that involved killing. He could use them toprehend the intent of reaping lives.

    Immersed in this contemtion, he became oblivious to everything else.

    ......

    Outside the pce, several figures lurked in the shadows.

    These figures were the two groups from the Extreme Profundity Sect and the Cloud Heaven Pce from before.

    Two days ago, they fought each other for the treasures inside; unexpectedly, they had to join hands to fend off an intruder. The intruder, Chen Fan, was so powerful that he repelled them both with a single spear strike.

    However, the two groups felt indignant about handing their opportunities to someone else.

    Thus, after exiting the pce, they did not leave. They hid nearby to monitor the pce and contacted their sects for reinforcements.

    At this time, the unibrow youth walked over, following a strong-looking youth.

    ¡°What¡¯s the current situation like?¡±

    The disciples of the Extreme Profundity Sect immediately greeted the strong-looking youth respectfully. ¡°Greetings, Senior Brother Qi Yun.¡±

    Qi Yun was one of the top fifty candidates on the leaderboard, being a mighty expert at the ninth level.

    Qi Yun nced at the two disciples from the Cloud Heaven Pce at the side and said coldly, ¡°You two can get lost now.¡±

    The expressions of the Cloud Heaven Pce disciples sank.

    Yesterday, He Changzai and the unibrow youth discussed for a bit and decided to do two things: send some to seek out experts from their n and leave some to monitor the pce.

    An expert from the Extreme Profundity Sect has arrived, but no one from the Cloud Heaven Pce hade yet. Using this as an opportunity, Qi Yun had ordered them to get lost, his voice cold and unusually domineering.

    Suddenly, an indifferent voice rang out. He Changzai and a towering figure, standing at an imposing height of two meters, approached from a short distance away.

    ¡°Hoho, who do you think you are, Qi Yun? How dare you tell our Cloud Heaven Pce¡¯s disciples to leave!¡±

    The burly neer strode confidently, exuding immense power with each step. His presence seemed to shake the very foundation of the ancient city.

    ¡°It¡¯s Senior Brother Meng Chong!¡±

    The two Cloud Heaven Pce disciples¡¯ faces lit up with relief as they rushed to join him.

    Qi Yun, on the other hand, frowned when he saw Meng Chong.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Meng Chong walked over and stood three meters away from Qi Yun. A fierce wind blew at them, making Qi Yun and his fellow disciples¡¯ clothing flutter loudly.

    The unibrow youth and his fellow disciples¡¯plexion darkened slightly under the mountain-like pressure Meng Chong was emitting.

    ¡°Qi Yun, how dare you tell our Cloud Heaven Pce¡¯s disciples to get lost. Did you take our Cloud Heaven Pce as pushovers?¡±

    A fierce light shone in Meng Chong¡¯s big eyes. Immediately, the air in the surrounding area became heavy. It seemed like a fight was about to break out.

    Qi Yun didn¡¯t show any signs of weakness, either. His aura flowed, resisting the pressure from Meng Chong. He said coldly, ¡°So what if I am? You want to trade blows with me?¡±

    "I''m more than willing to oblige. Let''s see what you''re made of." Meng Chong grinned, his expression savage.

    He Changzai and the unibrow youth stood up against the two¡¯s pressure and urged, ¡°Senior Brothers, please calm down. The most important thing right now is to bring down that little bastard!¡±

    They wanted their respective senior brothers to fight Chen Fan. Yet, they were about to fight each other instead, that too before they had gotten their hands on the treasure. It would benefit Chen Fan if that happened.

    Qi Yun¡¯s eyes flickered, and he withdrew his aura, taking the way out the juniors had prepared for him.

    ¡°Whatever. Meng Chong, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re already aware of this, but someone snatched the food from our mouths. That¡¯s clearly showing disregard to our two great sects. Since you¡¯re here, what do you think we should do?¡±

    It was indeed not the time to sh with Meng Chong.

    Meng Chong also withdrew his aura and said, ¡°What else can we do? Bring down that little bastard first.¡±

    ¡°Alright, since you had also agreed to it, we¡¯ll join forces temporarily and kill that little bastard first. As for who gets the treasure, we''ll settle it between ourselves when the timees. Are we in agreement?"

    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll do as you say.¡± Meng Chong nodded.

    Qi Yun said, ¡°Alright, then. We¡¯ll go in and take down that brat. Based on my judgment, that person should also be at the ninth level. He has to be at least that strong to fight off thebined attacks from our two groups.¡±

    Thus, the two groups made their way toward the pce.

    When the two groups entered the pce, they immediately spotted Chen Fan sitting in the middle. Qi Yunughed coldly and said, ¡°Hoho, brat, it seems you¡¯ve really obtained some treasures. You even dare to practice it out in the open?¡±

    ¡°Well, since Meng Chong and I are here, your life will end today. You''ll pay dearly for daring to steal from us.¡± His voice resonated with primeval force, shaking the pce and stirring up dust.

    Qi Yun also held ill intentions. He was thinking of using this petty trick to interrupt Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation and make him suffer from qi bacsh or even fatal qi deviation, sparing them the need for confrontation.

    However, Qi Yun¡¯s ns failed.

    While the two groups had been arguing outside the pce, Chen Fan woke up from his meditative state.

    He slowly opened his eyes. His indifferent gaze fell onto the two groups and icily said, ¡°I had left you a way out, but not only do you not cherish it, but you even brought others here to find trouble with me. Whatever, since you¡¯re here, forget about making it out alive.¡±

 Chapter 319 - Smashed to Death with One Palm

    <h4>Chapter 319 - Smashed to Death with One Palm</h4>

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Qi Yun burst out inughter when Chen Fan finished his sentence.

    He looked at Chen Fan like he was looking at a corpse. He said morosely, ¡°Brat, you seem blissfully unaware of the danger you are in.¡±

    ¡°I''m onto you. You''re hiding your real power level, aren''t you? You are at the ninth level, right?

    ¡°I''ll give you that; it''s impressive. That strength was enough to deal with the two groups, but open your eyes wide and take a good look. Meng Chong and I are also at the ninth level, and we¡¯re even a cut above the rest. How do you expect to stand a chance against us teaming up? Hiding your power level won''t help you!"

    ¡°That¡¯s right, kid. You should have realized the situation you¡¯re in by now.¡± Meng Chong nodded.

    Qi Yun continued, ¡°The disciples of our sects were the first to enter this pce, yet you dare dream of stealing from us. This is no different from an act of suicide. The word ''death'' seems like it was made just for people like you!

    "Here''s the deal: I can offer you a quick and painless death. Hand over the treasures and your storage ring, then take your own life. That way, you can avoid any unnecessary pain and torture. If not, you won''t even have the chance to regret it once we start."

    Qi Yun crossed his arms and looked at Chen Fan with a cold smile.

    Chen Fan, however, didn''t show any signs of fear or concern. He calmly stood up, his joints cracking like popping beans.

    ¡°You probably thought you could bring me down if you joined hands. Honestly, you''re way off base with that thought.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent gaze fell on Qi Yun and Meng Chong.

    These two were indeed at the ninth level, their auras refined from considerable experience, not neers to this power level by any stretch.

    ¡°I¡¯ll also tell you the truth. Them calling you two here is nothing more than sending you to your deaths.¡± This statement visibly shook Qi Yun and Meng Chong, their faces clouding over with shock and anger.

    Their expressions became very ugly.

    ¡°Hoho, Meng Chong, this kid still doesn''t understand the gravity of his situation. He actually dares to look down on us. How do you think we should deal with him?¡± Qi Yunughed coldly.

    Chen Fan''s blunt arrogance and his outright dismissal of them were infuriating. Did he think he was like those monsters in the top ten of the Influential Figures Leaderboard?

    Meng Chong, a martial artist who favored brute strength, stretched his neck, the sound of cracking joints filling the air. With a menacing grin, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll crush all his bones one by one and let him have a taste of unbearable pain!¡±

    ¡°Haha, alright, then I¡¯ll take my time slicing his flesh. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll not let him die. You can then crush his bones. How about it?¡±

    Qi Yun''s expression and words were chilling, sending a shiver down the spine of anyone who heard them.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll trust you!¡± Meng Chong nodded.

    With a hint of impatience on his face, Chen Fan said, ¡°You talk too much. Let me send you on your way!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation immediately erupted, his primeval force spewing out from his skull.

    ¡°I shall use you people to check out how powerful this martial skill is.¡±

    Chen Fan raised his palm, primeval force surging out.

    Immediately, a creamy-white palm seal materialized. Star qi runes flickered on it, and a reaper¡¯s intent erupted.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    Chen Fan unleashed the palm strike on Qi Yun, Meng Chong, and the others.

    The space shook violently. Palm silhouettes appeared around them, ruthlessly rushing toward their target. The air exploded, and booming noises rang out endlessly.

    Qi Yun and Meng Chong¡¯s expressions immediately darkened.

    ¡°This is... an earth tier martial skill!¡±

    The two recognized the reaping intent of the Northern Star Reaper Hand. This skill was infused with a deep conceptualization, a hallmark of earth tier martial arts techniques.

    The palm shadows descended like the merciless hand of a god intent on iming their lives.

    ¡°Damn it, full force, now! Hold nothing back!¡± they yelled in unison, aware that any hesitation could lead to their death right there and then. They couldn¡¯t count on luck in this situation.

    ¡°Omnipresent Demons!¡± Qi Yun bellowed, pushing his cultivation to its peak. As he struck forward, his palm morphed into a ghastly greenish-purple hue, mimicking a demon''s.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The air was torn apart, filled with eerie wails akin to that of tormented spirits.

    His palm wind, dark and ominous as storm clouds, shed fiercely against Chen Fan''s Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    ¡°Ravaging Mountain Overthrowing Sea!¡± Meng Chong didn¡¯t hold back either.

    His tendons trembled fiercely, producing sounds like a taut bowstring being released. He suddenly grew three inches taller, looking like an iron tower.

    He punched, and a terrifying force rushed out from his fist like a dragon, radiating a rich golden light, along with the sounds of mountains crumbling and seas roaring. The power it contained was indescribable.

    Aside from the two of them, the unibrow youth, He Changzai, and the others also gritted their teeth and executed their strongest moves one after another. shes of light shone, and their cultivations erupted. Their momentum was unparalleled.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air itself seemed to rupture under the onught of theirbined powers.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    Chen Fan remained indifferent. The Northern Star Reaper Hand pressed down at once.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The different sources of primeval force collided and exploded in the air simultaneously, akin to thousands of fireworks igniting.

    The pce trembled under the relentless barrage, its structure groaning and cracking.

    <i>Whoosh.</i>

    A fearsome storm of qi erupted, its rampage reducing everything in its path to rubble. Even parts of the rooms copsed. The debris flew everywhere, producing whooshing noises.

    <i>Boom ka!</i>

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t hold back at all with this attack. He wanted to use Qi Yun and Meng Chong¡¯s groups to gauge the full extent of the Northern Star Reaper Hand''s capabilities.

    However, Qi Yun, Meng Chong, and the others¡¯bined attacks shattered under the Northern Star Reaper Hand¡¯s crushing might.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan roared. He rose into the air at once, his primeval force surged, rolling and circting, as he sent out another palm strike pressing down at them.

    With a rumble, the Northern Star Reaper Hand smashed everything ahead.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The entire pce shook violently with a rumble. Half of it copsed from the shock and turned into ruins.

    Chen Fannded on the floor, panting heavily for air. It truly deserved to be an earth tier martial skill. Despite his robust primeval force, executing the martial skill took a lot out of him.

    He looked at the dusty area. With a wave of his hand, a strong wind rolled out, sweeping the dust away and revealing the scene underneath.

    A huge, three-fingered w mark was on the ground.

    In the middle of it was a pool of blood. Qi Yun, Meng Chong, and the others were all smashed to bits from that one palm strike. They were beyond dead.

 Chapter 320 - Foggy Swamp, Part One

    <h4>Chapter 320 - Foggy Swamp, Part One</h4>

    ¡°Good! Very good!¡± Chen Fanughed and pped in satisfaction as he looked at the pool of blood and bits of flesh.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand¡¯s power was simply terrifying.

    Qi Yun and Meng Chong were both on the leaderboard. Although they weren¡¯t ranked too high up, hovering around the forties and fifties, their power was undeniable.

    Alongside them, He Changzai, the unibrow youth, and the other genius disciples from the two sects hadunched a joint attack on Chen Fan. In the face of an offense like that, even monsters within the top twenty of the leaderboard could do nothing but dodge.

    Nevertheless, they all fell victim to Chen Fan''s devastating palm strike, a testament to the sheer power of the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    ¡°As expected of an earth tier martial skill.¡± Chen Fan sighed.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand¡¯s power was extraordinary but also a burdensome skill.

    Not even Chen Fan, with his robust reserve of primeval force, could execute it more than a few times. Currently, he could only keep it as a method to save his life; he couldn¡¯t use it carelessly.

    It would be troublesome if he exhausted his primeval force and failed to kill his enemy.

    After dusting off his clothes, Chen Fan strode out of the pce, his steps purposeful.

    Roaming through the ancient city, he asionally explored other ancient pces, hoping to get lucky and pick up some scraps.

    Yet, to his disappointment, he found them already plundered by others. So, he left the ancient city, flying west.

    The vast Nebulous Mysterious Realm offered plenty of opportunities for treasure seekers. Aside from great strength, whether one could obtain the treasures depended on luck.

    If one were lucky, they would find a treasure without going far, while others, less fortunate, might leave empty-handed even after weeks within the mysterious realm.

    Two hourster, Chen Fan found himself in a huge swamp, surrounded by bubbling gray pools and towering, unfamiliar trees. asionally, he could even hear eerie hisses.

    Chen Fan looked around and caught sight of a gray lump of earth about fifty steps away.

    In the middle of the lump was a small stalk of grass covered in silver scales, with a hint of golden light at its top. The surface of its leaves was covered in silver rings, emitting delicate lights.

    ¡°Golden-Capped Silver Ring Grass!¡±

    ¡°Good stuff.¡± Chen Fan revealed a look of joy.

    These grasses were scarce, as they only grew on the corpses of Golden-Capped Silver Ring Snakes. This type of snake was considered an ancient species with a hint of dragon bloodline.

    The Golden-Capped Silver Ring Grass absorbed the essence of a Golden-Capped Silver Ring Snake, especially that hint of dragon bloodline to grow. It could stimte the bloodline of martial artists and strengthen their physique.

    Chen Fan had recast his body with dragon blood, so he already had the bloodline of a Rain Dragon.

    Consuming the stalk would further amplify the power of Chen Fan''s bloodline. That would enhance his physique and propel his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the peak of the ninthyer.

    Without hesitation, Chen Fan gestured with his hand, summoning a strand of primeval force that gently lifted the Golden-Capped Silver Ring Grass from its earthy bed and into his grasp.

    However, before he could take a closer look at the herb, the lump of earth unexpectedly shifted. Its surface split open, and a ghastly light gathered and locked onto him.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Perplexed, Chen Fan watched as the lump disintegrated, revealing a savage beast resembling an alligator.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The alligator-like demon beast broke out of the water. It was huge, over ten meters long, and carried a strong, corrosive demonic qi. It pounced at Chen Fan; its jaws, bristling with razor-sharp teeth, seemed ready to tear apart Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan calmly countered with a powerful punch.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The impact reverberated; unexpectedly, it only sent the alligator demon beast flying several meters back. The beast still looked uninjured.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Undeterred, Chen Fan unleashed another punch, this time channeling his cultivation. His clothes billowed as his aura surged, and he delivered another punch akin to a cannonball.

    <i>Poof chi!</i>

    This punch killed the alligator demon beast, and its fresh blood dyed the swamp red.

    Chen Fan retrieved its demon core and threw it into his mouth along with the Golden-Capped Silver Ring Grass, circting his qi and refining them.

    A brilliant light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes about a quarter-hourter. His aura grew a little stronger, and his strength progressed a step further.

    His figure shed, and he advanced deeper into the swamp.

    Before he could get far, danger reared its head once more.

    A flock of eerie avian creatures¡ªresembling snakes with wings¡ªemerged from the colossal trees rooted in the swamp. They let out shrill cries, which was also a mental attack, as they rushed toward Chen Fan from all directions.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Six arms appeared at Chen Fan¡¯s back, gathering tremendous force to deliver powerful blows. Waves of qi swept out like monstrous tides, blowing up those strange birds and leaving only their demon cores behind.

    ¡°As expected of an ancient sect¡¯s trial ground. The environment is preserved in its ancient state, and the demon beasts are also from ancient times. They are so ferocious that they would be kings outside.¡±

    Chen Fan had already walked around for an hour, but he still couldn¡¯t see the end of the swamp area.

    As he moved about, countless ancient demon beasts tried to ambush him.

    Earlier, a calf-sized snail demon beast spewed sticky fluid at Chen Fan. Not only was this fluid like super glue, but it also had a strong corrosive attribute.

    If Chen Fan hadn¡¯t reacted quickly and dodged, his flesh would have corroded. Despite his tough physique, he would have been riddled with bloody holes.

    This swamp was full of dangers.

    Chen Fan climbed a tree for a vantage point. He saw a tnd about a thousand steps to the front and side.

    He flew over to the tnd and found a broken stone monument. The characters engraved on it had already turned blurry. Before the monument was an iron rod; someone had stabbed it into the ground. A little over a meter of the rod stuck out of the ground.

    ¡°Hmm.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up. He reached out and grabbed the iron rod, pulling on it forcefully.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, crimson mes rose into the air and burned the big tree at the side. Soon, nothing was left of them.

    Chen Fan realized that the rod was actually a ck iron spear.

    It was two hundred and thirty centimeters long, adorned with intricate spiral patterns along its body.

    The spear de had four edges, with a groove between each edge. At a nce, one could even mistake it as a spiral me burning at the tip of an iron rod.

    ¡°Good stuff. This should be a Grade-4 item, right?¡±

    Chen Fan could sense the searing heat emanating from the spear. Even a slight activation of its aura would unleash mes so fierce that they could engulf the surroundingnds for hundreds of miles. Its power far surpassed that of his Nightless sword.

    ¡°Good. My Heaven Piercing Spear is condensed from my primeval force. Its hardness is only equivalent to an exceptional quality Grade-2 treasure, so someone at the ninth level can break it. I can use this iron spear from now on!

    Chen Fan grinned. Afterward, he shook his arm and stabbed out fiercely with the iron spear.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air ruptured as the spear sliced through it and carved a deep gash into the t terrain ahead.

    ¡°Good, very good. It¡¯s easy to use.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded in satisfaction, ready to stow away the spear. However, a faint rustle in the surroundings caught his attention. Momentster, several figures approached, their eyes gleaming with greed.

 Chapter 321 - Foggy Swamp, Part Two

    <h4>Chapter 321 - Foggy Swamp, Part Two</h4>

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    A few figures flew over, their faces contorted with greed.

    These were disciples from the Raging Inferno Pce, who had teamed up to explore the misty swamp. When they caught sight of a sudden burst of me in Chen Fan''s direction, they knew a valuable treasure had appeared. So, they hurried over, eager to im it for themselves.

    ¡°Kid, put down the spear.¡±

    "Break one of your arms, and we might let you live!"

    "You''re not worthy of wielding such a treasure."

    The group of five people surrounded Chen Fan, slowly inching closer to him. Their gazes were cold, flickering with ferociousness, as they eyed him like a tiger watching its prey.

    ¡°Hoho, I¡¯ll also offer you a way out. Break one arm each and scram, or face the music!¡±

    Chen Fan mmed the butt of the iron spear into the ground. A glint of steel shed, and a chilling breeze swept out, causing ripples across the swamp.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°Oh boy, you don''t know who you''re messing with!¡±

    ¡°No need to waste your breath on him. He''s signed his own death warrant!¡±

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    The youth closest to Chen Fan suddenly unleashed a powerful palm strike, the force akin to an ax cleaving a mountain.

    Mountain Cleaving Palm!

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t make any special moves in retaliation. The iron spear shot out, breaking through everything in its path, and skewered the youth with a poof, leaving him hanging on the iron spear and frozen in his attacking stance.

    The remaining four jumped in fright. However, their shock quickly turned to fury as they unleashed their full power.

    ¡°Damn it, how dare you kill our Raging Inferno Pce¡¯s disciple!¡±

    ¡°Get him, it¡¯s a Grade-4 treasure!¡±

    ¡°Strike together, kill him!¡±

    Chen Fan countered with a swift back thrust, impaling another attacker before they could get close.

    ¡°Reckless idiots!¡±

    Killing a person with every thrust, Chen Fan was overwhelming them with his spear.

    The air crackled with the sound of thunder as Chen Fan swung the spear horizontally, shredding another assant.

    ¡°Run! Quick!!! We¡¯re no match for him!¡±

    ¡°Withdraw, we¡¯ll go get Senior Brother Leng Yunfeng to kill him!¡±

    The two remaining youths cowered.

    In the blink of an eye, Chen Fan had killed three from their group. They werepletely outssed.

    However, it was already toote for them to think about running.

    Chen Fan infused his primeval force into the iron spear and stabbed out at the two.

    With a boom, a rolling scarlet me shot out, devouring the two instantly. They became ash before they could even scream.

    The intense fire consumed the towering trees, turning the ground to ckened char and threatening to transform the swamp into a fieryndscape.

    After finishing off thest two, Chen Fan suddenly turned around and said, ¡°Friend, you''ve been watching from the shadows for long enough. It''s time to reveal yourself."

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A figure leaped from the dense forest andnded gracefully on a nearby stone in the swamp.

    ¡°Not bad, not bad at all. I happen to practice a fire-attributed cultivation technique. This iron spear suits me very well. Kid, you¡¯re only at the seventh level. You might have taken down those five losers with the help of that treasure, but facing me? You don''t stand a chance. If I were you, I''d offer up the treasure at once to save my own life.¡±

    This youth seemed to be in his early twenties; his eyebrows were thick, and his eyes were big. He exuded a scorching aura that warped the surrounding space with its heat, making him seem like he was in a different dimension.

    This person was at the peak of the eighth level. He had his hands at his back, looking at Chen Fan loftily.

    ¡°Hoho, you¡¯re overestimating yourself. If you want the treasure,e and get it.¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, showing a disdainful look.

    ¡°I expected that much. That treasure is undoubtedly good, but do you have the strength to keep it? Possessing it without strength renders you unworthy and vulnerable. Having it in your hands is akin to holding onto a disaster waiting to strike. I¡¯ll give you another chance. Don¡¯t make a mistake,¡± said the thick-eyebrowed youth.

    Chen Fan pointed at him with the iron spear and said icily, ¡°You speak too much nonsense. A jab should be enough to kill you.¡±

    The thick-eyebrowed youth didn¡¯t show any anger. Instead, he shook his head and sighed. ¡°Haaa, why do so many people seek death? I offered you two chances, yet you seem adamant about choosing the third¡ªdeath. Fine, then I¡¯ll be kind and grant your wish. Remember, the person who killed you is Gu Fenxian!¡±

    The fiery primeval force at Gu Fenxian¡¯s back rose again, transforming into a drawing.

    In this drawing, the mes and smoke had turned into immortals.

    The fire burned the immortals. None disyed any hint of their supposed immortality; instead, their contorted faces bore the anguish of torment.

    ¡°Brat, you should feel proud to be able to die from my Burning Immortal Drawing.¡±

    Gu Fenxian executed the Burning Immortal Drawing. The drawing surged toward Chen Fan with a whoosh, threatening to engulf him in the same fiery torment depicted within.

    Immediately, an intense heat wave swept over.

    Chen Fan felt as if he was inside a furnace, surrounded by zing fire trying to burn him to death. He felt a burning pain on his skin.

    Despite that, he didn¡¯t even twitch an eyebrow. His gaze was like a torch. He shouted, ¡°I told you, all I need is one spear to kill you!¡±

    Chen Fan seemed unimpressive when he remained still, but when he moved, he shocked the heavens.

    His cultivation surged, and his arm stabbed out,unching a heaven-piercing strike.

    Immediately, the air flowed backward. Cracks appeared on the faces of those burning immortals on the Burning Immortal Drawing, and the single spear tore apart the entire drawing.

    That was not the end, however. The terrifying spear thrust tore through the Burning Immortal Drawing like paper and shockingly continued toward Gu Fenxian. The sounds of spirits wailing rang in the area.

    Gu Fenxian¡¯s cold smile froze.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    He had never imagined that his prized technique would fail so utterly against Chen Fan''s single strike. That technique couldn¡¯t even stop Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    He wanted to dodge, but the terrifying aura locked him in ce. He could only watch as the iron spear took his life from him.

    Chen Fan retracted his spear. He retrieved Gu Fenxian¡¯s storage ring and took out the items inside.

    There were quite a few valuable items. A scroll for a cultivation technique appeared in his hand. It was the Burning Immortal Drawing Cultivation Technique Gu Fenxian practiced.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s a pretty decent cultivation technique. It¡¯s actually an upper-profound tier martial art. Hmm, a fire-attributed cultivation technique. It suits Father very well. Although our Chen n confiscated a fewrge ns, the cultivation techniques we obtained from them were only mediocre.¡±

    Chen Fan put the Burning Immortal Drawing Cultivation Technique away, nning to give it to Chen Zhengqing in the future. With this upper-profound tier cultivation technique, the Chen n¡¯s foundation would improve further.

    A n''s foundation depended not only on the n¡¯s history but also on its treasures, their experts, and the cultivation techniques that served as a pir to the n.

    An upper-profound tier cultivation technique could allow a n to produce Yuanfu realm experts endlessly, perhaps even Core Formation realm experts. That was the foundation.

 Chapter 322 - Running into Xue Tianhe

    <h4>Chapter 322 - Running into Xue Tianhe</h4>

    Chen Fan darted through the treetops like a wisp of green smoke. With another sh, he disappeared without a trace.

    <i>Jiji, jiji...</i>

    As soon as Chen Fan left, a horde of writhing worms slithered from the murky swamp. They attacked the corpses of Gu Fenxian and the others, devouring them whole, leaving nothing but bare bones behind.

    ......

    At another location in the Foggy Swamp, a blood-colored figure was clutching the neck of an eighth-level expert. With a sinister grin, the figure sank his sharp, bloody fangs into the victim''s neck, indifferent to their pleas for mercy.

    The sound of fresh blood gushing out rang.

    <i>Gulp.</i>

    The painful cries of the eighth-level expert resounded sorrowfully in the Foggy Swamp.

    <i>Bang.</i>

    The figure, wearing a blood-shirt, casually threw the desated corpse to the ground soon. "Ah, that hits the spot. Feeding on these experts will surely bring me to the Core Formation realm even quicker. Just a few more, and my blood core will be fully condensed."

    The man had already turned into a bloody blur and scurried into the forest, but his voice still rang in that area.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Swift as a phantom, he darted through the swamp, seeking out his next unsuspecting prey.

    Suddenly, the blood-clothed man stopped. Perched atop a tree, he carefully sniffed, and his eyes brightened. He mumbled to himself, ¡°I wasn¡¯t imagining it. What an intense scent of qi and blood. My blood demon power is tingling; it practically wants to rush out right now. So unusual... There''s something truly remarkable about this prey''s bloodline.¡±

    ¡°Excellent! This changes everything.¡± Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes flickered with excitement as he said, ¡°I don¡¯t have to feed on another twenty to thirty experts at the eighth or ninth level. Perhaps I can directly advance into the Core Formation realm with that blood. Then, the entire Nebulous Mysterious Realm will be mine for the taking...¡±

    ¡°Over there...¡± Xue Tianhe''s focus sharpened as he honed in on his target. He transformed into a streak of crimson light and silently darted toward it.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan pressed on through the Foggy Swamp, searching for the ends of the swamp.

    He didn¡¯t encounter other martial artists, though he did encounter many demon beasts lying in wait. Once, he narrowly avoided falling victim to the sneak attack of a demon beast as strong as a ninth-level expert; thankfully, he only sustained minor injuries.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Chen Fan suddenly stopped, furrowing in suspicion as he scanned his surroundings.

    A moment ago, an inexplicable sense of danger had gripped him as if he were being hunted.

    Looking around with his sharp gaze, he spread his powerful senses.

    Suddenly, a fierce light shone in his eyes, and he unleashed a punch to his rear and to his side. He shouted, ¡°Show yourself!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A swathe of tall trees behind him became splinters. The swamp exploded, sttering muddy waters everywhere.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    A blood-colored figure flickered, revealing itself. Hended lightly on a withered tree in the swamp and looked at Chen Fan with a vague smile.

    ¡°Kid, you¡¯re pretty sharp,¡± said Xue Tianhe.

    Chen Fan¡¯s nose twitched. He found Xue Tianhe¡¯s aura familiar yet disgusting. A cold light burst from his eyes, and he said icily, ¡°Demonic cultivation technique... You¡¯re a blood demon, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Be it Sir Blood Shirt from the Qingyang Mountain Range or the blood-sucking bandits in the northwesternnds, one of the traits they shared was that Chen Fan felt ufortable the instant heid eyes on them.

    Xue Tianhe didn¡¯t deny it. ¡°Ah, it seems you''ve had run-ins with blood demons before, kid. Indeed, I am one. Tell me, do you possess a unique bloodline? Your qi and blood are making my demon powers dance in excitement. It makes me want to gobble you up.¡±

    In his eyes, Chen Fan was little more than prey. Revealing his identity before the kill seemed almost like a perverse pleasure.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow.

    <i>It¡¯s making the powers inside Xue Tianhe stir restlessly?</i>

    <i>Looks like the Rain Dragon bloodline is extremely attractive to the blood demons.</i>

    <i>Makes sense. Rain Dragons are divine dragons. They were godly existences in ancient times.</i>

    A single drop of the blood from those god-like beings could suppress the ages. They contained unimaginable powers. For practitioners like blood demons, whose strength stemmed from blood, Chen Fan¡¯s blood was an exquisite feast. A single mouthful of his blood could instantly grant them a decade''s worth of cultivation.

    ¡°Actually, your answer doesn¡¯t matter, kid. The scent of your qi and blood intoxicated me even when I was five miles away. Trust me, your blood will be the most delectable thing I''ve ever tasted.

    ¡°And while we are trusting each other, I will let you in on a little secret. I am in the Illusory Core realm. I had expected that I would need the blood of a lot more eighth or ninth-level experts to advance to the Core Formation realm, but you... You will save me a lot of trouble.

    ¡°Your fresh blood is worth more than tens of thembined. I am ny percent sure I can advance to the Core Formation realm after draining you. To serve as a stepping stone for my breakthrough, kid, this is a blessing you must have cultivated in eight lifetimes.¡±

    His eyes shining, Xue Tianhe looked at Chen Fan as if he were a beautiful, naked woman.

    ¡°All you heretics deserve to die!¡± Chen Fan said coldly, bursting with killing intent.

    Memories of the horrifying scenes in the northwesternnds flooded Chen Fan''s mind¡ªthe sight of dry corpses strewn about, victims of blood-sucking bandits who showed no mercy, not even to infants. They could no longer be called humans; they were abominations.

    ¡°Hahahaha. Even in ancient times, the Nebulous Divine Pce failed to eradicate our holy cult despite uniting with various factions. Yet, a mere seventh-level guy like you dares to speak such insulting words. Very well, I won¡¯t drain you in one go. No, I''ll capture you and savor every drop of your blood slowly and surely.¡±

    A savage smile appeared on Xue Tianhe¡¯s face.

    Chen Fan had a unique bloodline. If he could be kept in captivity like a domestic animal and supply blood to Xue Tianhe endlessly, then his cultivation would progress rapidly.

    Chen Fan was startled. When he was in the northwesternnds, Lu Yun told him about the blood cmity that engulfed the Tianwu Continent during ancient times. The Blood Heavenly Demon Sect was so powerful that it had threatened the lives of everyone in the entire Tianwu Continent.

    Thus, the righteous martial artists of the Tianwu Continent banded together and waged war against the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect to destroy them.

    Unexpectedly, the Nebulous Divine Pce had led the way, leading the numerous righteous sects to eradicate the abominations.

    ¡°Alright, kid. Give yourself up, or let me cripple your cultivation. Make your choice.¡± Xue Tianhe smiled coldly, looking at Chen Fan with his arms crossed.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned fierce. He held the iron spear vertically in front of him and said coldly, ¡°Let¡¯s see how you¡¯re going to cripple my cultivation!¡±

    ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re not going to give yourself up.¡±

    Xue Tianhe didn¡¯t be angry. He said with a smile, ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to shatter your delusions and show you the difference between us. It¡¯s not something blind courage can make up for.¡±

    As soon as his voice fell, Xue Tianhe struck.

 Chapter 323 - Battling Xue Tianhe

    <h4>Chapter 323 - Battling Xue Tianhe</h4>

    Xue Tianhe rose, soaring into the sky like a roc spreading its wings. Then, he swooped fiercely, like an eagle preying on a rabbit.

    He extended his palm, stirring up his blood-red primal force. Streams of it shot out from his fingertips like crimson steel spears.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    Xue Tianhe''s relentless assault generated a powerful wind that caused the swamp''s surface to ripple and cave.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi.</i>

    The blood-colored primeval force attack pierced the air and tore through the space.

    The attack could prate hard rocks and break steel; there was nothing it could not destroy. Any unfortunate target would be the owner of five new, bloody holes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s clothes fluttered wildly from the wind. He raised his head slightly, a sharp light burst from his eyes like des, and he punched.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    His fist produced a sound akin to a roar. A terrifying force shot out from his fist, stirring the space, crushing everything in its path. It shed violently with the five blood-colored steel spears.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    A chain of explosions ravaged the area instantly, setting off waves of fierce wind that swept out in all directions. The surrounding huge trees creaked loudly, and their leaves fluttered and fell.

    ¡°Not bad.¡±

    Xue Tianhe wasn¡¯t affected by the rolling qi waves. He swooped fiercely, and his oppressive aura calmed down the qi flow within the surrounding ten meters.

    A towering blood light spewed out from Xue Tianhe. The dark and gloomy Foggy Swamp brightened, and the air was dyed blood-red.

    A thick, bloody qi mass of seemingly countless red skeletons rippled in the area. It fiercely pressed toward Chen Fan like a crimson mountain.

    ¡°Take this! Blood Sea Flips the Heaven!¡±

    Xue Tianhe thrust his palm forward. The blood-colored primeval force suddenly changed, and immediately, a ttering sound resounded in space.

    A vast sea of blood crashed down at great speed. Heavy as a mountain, itpressed the air so much that creaking noises filled the area. And such formidable might was targeting Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly. An invisible force forcefully enveloped him. It held him in ce as the blood sea rushed down to drown and swallow him.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Fan let out a cold snort and shook. The sound of dragon-elephants hissing rang out, and the invisible force gave way. As he gathered his cultivation, three heads and six arms appeared around Chen Fan; instantly, he unleashed the nine moves of the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist.

    The entire space stirred fiercely. The qi waves swept like the tide. Rumbling noises resounded in the area, and the air exploded from Chen Fan¡¯s punches.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The devastating punches set off fierce winds, rushing into that crashing sea of blood. The punches blew numerous holes through the massive waves in the blood sea. Soon, Chen Fan¡¯s flurry of attacks quickly died down.

    ¡°Annihte!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly and struck again with the same momentum.

    The Undefeated King¡¯s Fist¡¯s momentum was shocking. Like attacks from an undefeated god of war, they shook heaven and earth, containing powers that could blow up the sun, moon, and stars. They could turn everything and anything into dust.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    His attacks soon neutralized the monstrous wave of the blood sea, turning it into a blood-colored mist.

    Chen Fan¡¯s power still didn¡¯t stop. It rushed toward Xue Tianhe, making him stop and fly backward.

    ¡°Good! Very good! You¡¯re pretty strong to destroy my Blood Sea Flips the Heaven, on par with an eighth-level expert. To have such strength... the bloodline must be quite special. Fascinating. I''m growing more intrigued by the second.¡±

    <i>Pa, pa, pa...</i> Xue Tianheughed and pped, standing in the air. Despite his attack being thwarted, he disyed neither dejection nor anger.

    ¡°You destroyed my Blood Sea Flips the Heaven, but can you handle my Boundless Blood Sea?¡± Xue Tianhe revealed a bloodthirsty smile.

    His palms turned into blurs. Primeval force immediately rushed out, again transforming into an endless blood sea, rolling toward Chen Fan and corroding the space. This attack was twice as strong as hisst one.

    Yet Chen Fan didn¡¯t waver and relentlessly unleashed punches with the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. The force from his punches was like ten thousand horses galloping across and crushing the space, shing violently with Xue Tianhe¡¯s towering blood sea.

    ¡°Good, good, good. Even Boundless Blood Sea can¡¯t do a thing to you. Not bad, not bad at all. Eat my Corpse Mountain Blood Sea!¡±

    Xue Tianhe was like a hunter, toying with his prey. With a wave of his arm, another blood sea rushed out; this sea also had white bone jiangshis.

    These jiangshis stood on the surface of the blood sea, treading on it. They wielded all sorts of weapons, with a stench of blood and nefarious qi radiating from them.

    Chen Fan¡¯s feet seemed rooted in the ground. His primeval force surged and roared inside him. Every punch from him carried tremendous power that could st a mountain to bits and shatter the stars.

    <i>Boom, boom, rumble!</i>

    Deafening explosions echoed, sending shockwaves of terrifying force rippling in all directions, destroying everything in their path. Towering trees nearby toppled. Some ripped from their roots, others shattered into splinters, and a few became powder upon impact.

    The ripples invaded the swamp, triggering explosions that sent water spraying dozens of meters into the air, cascading down like torrential rain.

    The demon beasts hidden inside the swamp were affected as well. Their fresh blood dyed the swamp red.

    ¡°Impressive! Impressive! As expected of someone with a special bloodline. You¡¯re indeed strong. You didn¡¯t disappoint me. You can fight someone at the ninth level while being at the seventh level. You¡¯re truly worthy to be called a genius.

    ¡°Very good. Your blood, the blood of a true genius, will bring immense satisfaction and joy. You are fated to be my sustenance, my blood offering.¡±

    ¡°Blood God Hammer!¡± Xue Tianheughed loudly, his gaze shining brightly. Suddenly, he wrapped his hands together, forming a circle as if he were holding heaven and earth.

    Immediately, a huge, blood-colored hammer appeared.

    Engraved with scenes reminiscent of the eighteenyers of hell and having a handle fashioned from countless white bones, the hammer''s appearance seemed to weigh heavily on heaven and earth.

    ¡°Kid, it¡¯s time to end this!¡± Xue Tianhe roared. Blood demon aura rolled and churned, and he brought down the hammer.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The blood hammer shook fiercely. The surrounding space rippled, and the hammer smashed toward Chen Fan like a meteor.

    This blood hammer was only ten feet long, but Chen Fan felt it could even reduce ten enormous mountains to dust.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air stormed wildly as the blood hammer smashed downward. The space in between had beenpressed to the point that it was now as hard as a steel te.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Under Chen Fan¡¯s feet, the ground cracked open from the invisible pressure. The cracks spread out like a spiderweb, winding and zigzagging. It was a shocking scene.

    Chen Fan felt an overwhelming pressure.

    The invisible force had already arrived before that blood hammer fell on him. His feet sank a little more than an inch into the mud.

    Chen Fan took a deep breath and roared fiercely.

    ¡°Haaa!¡±

    His voice rushed out like a wave.

    Immediately, that space, solid like a steel te, exploded. The blood hammer¡¯s descent slowed down momentarily.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan stomped the ground fiercely and shot into the air.

    His qi and blood ttered loudly, and his tendons bulged and hummed.

    Chen Fan activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the limit. Behind him, the silhouettes of ancient wild elephants galloping appeared, trampling the space.

    Terrifying godly strength was summoned from his blood and flesh, like streams of water converging into the sea, flowing into his right arm. It erupted at once with a punch, crushing the space.

    <i>Dong!</i>

    The terrifying punch smashed against the blood hammer.

 Chapter 324 - Retreat in Defeat

    <h4>Chapter 324 - Retreat in Defeat</h4>

    <i>Dong!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s fist struck the blood hammer, and a dull noise rang. It seemed like time and space hade to a halt.

    <i>Buzz...</i>

    A buzzing sound filled the air as powerful shock waves radiated outward like ripples on a carpet, obliterating the ancient trees in their path with explosive force.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Countless explosions rang in the swamp.

    The chain of explosions altered the very topography of the swamp. The mud and sludge were mixed with unrecognizable things and spattered everywhere.

    The demon beasts lurking deep within the swamp could not avoid this disaster. They didn¡¯t even get to cry out before they became a mist of blood. With poof sounds resembling a bursting water balloon, they were just gone.

    Suddenly, a long roar came out from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth like a thunderp.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Tremendous power surged out from him, shattering everything.

    The blood hammer could no longer withstand it and went flying back. Simultaneously, cracking noises rang out from it.

    It ultimately exploded with a boom. The blood hammer that could crush heavy mountains crumbled and fell apart.

    <i>Tap!</i>

    Chen Fannded gracefully on the ground, looking at Xue Tianhe as he staggered from the aftershocks.

    <i>Tap, tap, tap!</i>

    Xue Tianhe regained his bnce and apuded, his gaze serious as he said to Chen Fan, ¡°Impressive. That punch proves that even ordinary experts at the ninth level are no match for you.¡±

    ¡°You talk too much,¡± Chen Fan said icily.

    An icy light shone in Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes. He said coldly, ¡°Kid, you¡¯re my blood sustenance; I¡¯m like your master. Just listen when your master speaks. You have no authority here. Got it?"

    Chen Fan responded with a terrifying punch. The force swept through space, rushing toward Xue Tianhe¡¯s face.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    ¡°Hmph, an ant trying to shake a tree!¡±

    A stern look appeared on Xue Tianhe¡¯s face. He raised his hand and unleashed a palm strike that destroyed Chen Fan¡¯s punch.

    ¡°Well, you probably think you have aughable chance against me since I haven''t taken you down yet. Allow me to enlighten you on just how ignorant you truly are!"

    Xue Tianhe swayed. He moved with lightning speed and appeared before Chen Fan in a sh.

    ¡°Blood God Arm!¡±

    Blood-colored runes flickered on his arm. They were extremely profound and ancient, exuding a terrifyingly oppressive aura that bore down on Chen Fan like a crashing wave.

    <i>Boom thump!</i>

    A terrifying arm shed through space like a blood-colored steel spear,pressing the air into tiny, translucent beads as it hurtled toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°So fast!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s pupils contracted fiercely. It felt as though Xue Tianhe had teleported right in front of him.

    As the punch came at him, he could feel his soul waver.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Art, Unparalleled God''s Strength!¡±

    Chen Fan activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art at the crucial moment, unleashing immense godly power as he countered with his own lightning-fast punch.

    Their punches collided!

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Following a dull noise, Chen Fan flew back, skidding along the ground and knocking down a swath of trees.

    Chen Fan half knelt on the ground, with his waist bent, and spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood uncontrobly.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    He slowly stood back up and looked at Xue Tianhe gravely, his heart trembling slightly.

    That punch had been terrifying. If not for his sturdy physique, it would have torn him apart.

    ¡°How is it?¡± Xue Tianhe asked with a faint smile, standing proudly.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t respond to him: words were meaningless at this point.

    ¡°Looks like you¡¯re not willing to submit. Fine, I''ll beat you until you beg for mercy!" Xue Tianhe''s smile turned sinister, resembling that of a devil.

    He wouldn¡¯t be here wasting his time if it weren''t for Chen Fan''s unique bloodline. He would have captured Chen Fan and sucked all his blood dry as he had done to everyone else.

    A howling wind filled the air, its force mming against Chen Fan.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Xue Tianhe appeared in front of Chen Fan again, unleashing another punch that could destroy mountains, unstoppable in its might. Chen Fan was sent hurtling through the air, blood spraying from his wounds.

    However, cold killing intent spread from Chen Fan. An iron spear appeared in his hand, and his figure blurred. He rushed at Xue Tianhe with a fierce gaze, executing his devastating thrust.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Terrifying strength coalesced at the spear''s tip, erupting with unmatched power.

    ¡°Hmm, a little interesting. This attack carries some threat. Not bad, but ultimately futile. The gap in strength cannot be bridged by mere technique.¡±

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes lit up. He attacked with his blood hammer, but Chen Fan¡¯s devastating thrust broke it and continued forward.

    However, there wasn¡¯t much power left in his thrust. Xue Tianhe countered with a light palm strike, effortlessly making Chen Fan stagger.

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s illusory core had already transformed seventy to eighty percent; he was twice as strong as Zhao Tianjue. Despite Chen Fan''s recent progress, he found it hard to resist Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°You see this? This is the difference in strength between you and me! Overpowering you is as effortless as an adult disciplining a child!" Xue Tianhe taunted, effortlessly deflecting Chen Fan''s attacks as if taking a stroll.

    ¡°Alright, kid, game time¡¯s over. Whether you''re willing or not, I''ll have to capture you and drain your blood to advance to the Core Formation realm. Then, we''ll see what''s next."

    Xue Tianhe threw out a punch, hitting the tip of the spear. The webbing between Chen Fan¡¯s fingers immediately tore open, and his iron spear flew out of his hand.

    Xue Tianhe grabbed at the air, and the space trembled.

    ¡°Come here, kid. You should feel honored to be my blood sustenance.¡±

    A huge blood-colored hand appeared, grabbing Chen Fan like an eagle catching a chick.

    Chen Fan had figured out the extent of Xue Tianhe''s terrifying strength. Evenpared to a genuine Core Formation realm expert, he wouldn''tg far behind. Chen Fan was clearly outmatched.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    A palm with three fingers appeared and wed forward lightly. It crushed Xue Tianhe¡¯s huge bloody hand and continued wing toward Xue Tianhe, with the air exploding from its power.

    ¡°An earth tier martial skill!¡±

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s expression finally darkened.

    He sensed an overwhelming threat from the attack. While it might not kill him, it could injure him severely.

    ¡°To think you had such an ace up your sleeve... I¡¯ve underestimated you," Xue Tianhe admitted, his tone tinged with surprise. "But it''s still not enough to deal with me. This attack should have depleted all your primeval force. Just wait until I neutralize this move, and you''ll be at my mer¡ª"

    Xue Tianhe''s words were cut off abruptly as he saw another Northern Star Reaper Hand lunging at him.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Xue Tianhe was truly stunned.

    Earth tier martial skills were powerful, but Yuanfu realm martial artists would be drained of all their primeval force after executing it once. Ordinary people were simply incapable of executing a second attack.

    Yet, Chen Fan defied all logic and delivered another blow, pping Xue Tianhe''s arrogance in the face.

    With no time to dwell on his shock, he focused on the two Northern Star Reaper Hands threatening his life.

    He immediately shouted fiercely. A bloody light blossomed from him as he revolved his cultivation. A Corpse Mountain Blood Sea appeared at his back, crashing with huge waves.

    When Chen Fan executed the Northern Star Reaper Hand for the second time, hisplexion had turned pale.

    He didn¡¯t stay around to look at the results. He quickly spread the Wings of Rain Dragon, holding the iron spear, and fled with a swish.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying, bloody light burst out, shooting in all directions likesers.

    The horrifying qi wave was like a category twenty hurricane, leaving destruction as it swept through the area, reducing everything to ruins.

    Xue Tianhe emerged from that storm with a dark expression.

    His cooked duck had flown off!

    ¡°Damn it, don¡¯t let me run into you again, or you won¡¯t get so lucky for sure!¡± Xue Tianhe cursed, feeling extremely indignant. Then, he turned into a streak of bloody light and chased Chen Fan.

 Chapter 325 - Bizarre Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 325 - Bizarre Mountain</h4>

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A silhouette flew out from the Foggy Swamp.

    ¡°I¡¯m out.¡±

    The sun''s rays pierced through the fog and hit Chen Fan, making him squint.

    He stood on a dark cliff. Behind him was the murky swampnd, while before him stretched endless nothingness. He couldn¡¯t see anything; it seemed like an invisible barrier was blocking his vision.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t think much about it and jumped off the cliff. He knew that those two Northern Star Reaper Hand strikes weren¡¯t enough to kill Xue Tianhe. They likely hadn¡¯t even injured him.

    After all, if he had an ultimate move to defend himself, Xue Tianhe also had other defensive maneuvers up his sleeve.

    The two attacks had only granted Chen Fan a fleeting moment to escape. He had to focus on staying ahead of Xue Tianhe''s pursuit. There was no time to think; he had to keep moving forward.

    ¡°It¡¯s fortunate that I left the Foggy Swamp. The mud and the fog really made it hard not to leave any traces behind. Now, I need to find a ce to hide first.

    ¡°But Xue Tianhe can pick up my powerful vitality from five miles away. I have to mask it somehow.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind raced. If Xue Tianhe caught up to him, it would be very troublesome.

    The clouds and fog rolled, and Chen Fan kept falling.

    Suddenly, the space below fluctuated violently, forming a ten-meter-wide vortex. Before Chen Fan could react to the situation, he was sucked into it. He instantly vanished; it was as if he had never been here in the first ce.

    ¡°This...¡± Chen Fan looked shocked. He instinctively enveloped himself in ayer of primeval force.

    Momentster, a bloody silhouette burst forth from the Foggy Swamp, their qi surging ferociously. It crackled like thunder, and the countless tall ancient trees were crushed.

    Hovering mid-air, Xue Tianhe scanned his surroundings.

    His nose twitched animatedly, sniffing for Chen Fan¡¯s vitality in the air, wanting to lock onto Chen Fan.

    Blood demons, especially those who had reached his level, were very sensitive to vitality.

    Moreover, Chen Fan¡¯s vitality was powerful and special, so he couldn''t escape Xue Tianhe¡¯s keen sense of smell.

    Xue Tianhe suddenly frowned.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    Xue Tianhe looked around sternly, puzzled because he hadn¡¯t found any traces of Chen Fan yet. It was as if he never exited the Foggy Swamp.

    This was obviously impossible, however.

    Xue Tianhe had been in hot pursuit, tracking Chen Fan''s every move through the Foggy Swamp. Losing him now seemed inconceivable.

    ¡°Did the wind blow away the traces of his vitality? That doesn¡¯t sound right. Even if the wind did that, I could lock onto his position from five miles away...¡±

    Xue Tianhe couldn¡¯t figure out what happened.

    No matter how fast Chen Fan was, he couldn''t fly five miles away in such a short time.

    <i>Thump!</i> Xue Tianhe¡¯s expression became iparably ugly, and he stomped. A terrifying force erupted, producing cracking noises as cracks appeared on the mountain.

    ......

    <i>Pa tap!</i>

    Chen Fan finally touched solid ground and sighed in relief. Taking a moment to catch his breath, he surveyed his surroundings.

    He hadn¡¯t anticipated such a sudden turn of events¡ªbeing whisked away by some unseen force and appearing in apletely different location in the blink of an eye.

    Thankfully, he found himself in a different spot. Had it been some sort of spatial rift, he would¡¯ve died without even knowing it.

    Chen Fan spread his senses and figured out where he was. ¡°From the looks of it, I am still in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. I shouldn¡¯t stay here for long. It would be troublesome if Xue Tianhe followed me here.¡±

    Then, he leaped into the air and disappeared with a swish.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Shortly after Chen Fan left, several figures flew over. One of them, a burly youth, said, ¡°Such fast speed. He disappeared all of a sudden.¡±

    Another person said, ¡°Forget it. That person probably discovered us and fled right away. Let''s move on and see if we can find anyone else."

    "Agreed. Let''s keep searching," came the reply as they flew off into the distance.

    <i>Chi, chi.</i>

    Chen Fan was swift, tearing through the air like a roc, flitting a thousand meters away instantly.

    ¡°This ce is not bad. It¡¯s off the beaten path and very inconspicuous. It¡¯s suitable for recuperating.¡±

    Chen Fannded in the valley. He sted a hole in a mountain, creating an entrance into the rocky terrain, and flew inside.

    His encounter with Xue Tianhe had left him battered and bruised, and he knew he needed time to recuperate.

    In the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, time was money, as each second he wasn¡¯t grabbing a treasure, someone else was. However, if he wasn¡¯t in his peak condition, he might not necessarily have the ability to obtain said treasures. He might even lose his life.

    ¡°Damn it. Seems like I''m always nursing injuriestely,¡± said Chen Fan as he sat cross-legged in the cave. He took out some Recovery Pills and consumed them.

    His second visit to the Zhao n had resulted in Zhao Tianjue chasing him and injuring him heavily. His injuries worsened due to the aftershock from the exchange between Xue Wuren and Tu Zhongshan. And today, he was wounded by Xue Tianhe.

    Chen Fan couldn''t help but feel trapped in a cycle of injury and recovery. It was a frustrating reality that reminded him of his weakness.

    He wouldn¡¯t be in such a situation if he were sufficiently powerful.

    Chen Fan decided to push aside his frustration. The Nebulous Mysterious Realm was an opportunity to increase his cultivation, and he was dead set on seizing this opportunity.

    Fortunately, he wasn¡¯t that heavily injured from fighting Xue Tianhe. His condition wasn¡¯t as serious as when Zhao Tianjue beat him; with his monstrous recovery speed, he only needed a day to recover fully.

    Moreover, the fight had pushed his cultivation a step ahead. He was now at thete stage of the seventh level. The eighth level was close now.

    ......

    An iparably grand huge mountain shaped like a pyramid appeared before Chen Fan. The nearby mountain peaks seemed especially smallpared to this mountain.

    The mountain''s terrain was a mix of ominous crimson glows, deep shadows, and vibrant patches illuminated by sunlight.

    Intrigued by the sight, Chen Fan decided to fly over. Such a majestic mountain would undoubtedly hold untold treasures and opportunities within its depths.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t charge over recklessly. He saw four roads below, each leading to the mountain.

    After pondering for a bit, Chen Fan picked up a big rock and threw it ahead.

    With a deafening bang, the rock disintegrated under an unseen force, making Chen Fan¡¯s scalp tingle.

    ¡°What a bizarre mountain. One cannot fly directly into it and has to walk from the foot of the mountain instead. Otherwise, they would be obliterated.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered. Fortunately, he was cautious. Otherwise, that rock¡¯s fate would have been his.

 Chapter 326 - Heartmoon Sacred Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 326 - Heartmoon Sacred Fruit</h4>

    Chen Fan surveyed the four mountain paths before him. He picked one of them at random and walked forward quickly.

    Moving through the clouds and mist, he found himself enveloped in a sea of white, with only the stone bridge beneath his feet visible.

    The mist gradually dissipated, and the sight of several ancient trees greeted him.

    They had ck trunks and green leaves. Each trunk was so thick that it would take ten adults wrapping their arms around it to circle it while their lush green leaves emitted a radiant, almost sacred glow.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up, and he mumbled, ¡°These millennia-old trees are prime materials for forging treasures. And these leaves¡¯ vitality aura... If I dilute the Fountain of Life a hundredfold, their vitality would beparable. The leaves are also quality materials for refining elixirs.¡±

    Chen Fan felt somewhat emotional, thinking this was indeed the trial ground of an enormous, ancient sect.

    A mere trial ground had such ancient trees. They might even be spirits if they grew for another ten thousand years.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t do a thing to these ancient trees, as they weren¡¯t all that useful to the current him.

    These ancient trees weren¡¯t beneficial to him. He wasn¡¯tcking weapon treasures. As for the tree leaves, although they had rich vitality auras, they were far fromparable to the Fountain of Life.

    Chen Fan walked a few more steps, and his field of vision opened up and became clearer. He discovered that these tall ancient trees were growing everywhere. The first few trees he saw earlier seemed unimpressive now.

    All of a sudden, Chen Fan heard noises ahead.

    The sounds weren''t those of demon beasts but rather of human activity.

    ¡°Someone is here!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed, a light flickering within. He quickly walked over.

    Someone being on this bizarre mountain with him wasn¡¯t surprising.

    After all, thousands had entered the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, each discovering their own opportunities. Anyone who came across this peculiar mountain would inevitably feel an urge to explore it.

    Gradually, a swathe of grand yet dpidated buildings appeared before his eyes.

    Beneath an ancient tree loomed a colossal green stone door towering a thousand feet tall. Beyond ity a stretch of ruined walls extending indefinitely.

    Broken walls, shattered tiles, rusty ancient pce halls, copsed halls...

    This bizarre mountain seemed to be a core area where many Nebulous Divine Pce¡¯s disciples likely came to train.

    Chen Fan pressed forward. Soon, he spotted around twenty figures gathered around a smallke, their cultivation levels all at the upper ends of the Yuanfu realm.

    Theke, merely two hundred meters wide, had a white ancient tree at its center. Its trunk, branches, and leaves all gleamed with a moon-white hue. It looked like it had been carved out of jade.

    The tree had a single fruit growing on it. It was like a round, bright moon and emitted bright moonlight.

    The fruit¡¯s fragrance had spread to the surrounding thousands of feet. A single whiff of its fragrance could refresh people¡¯s minds.

    Chen Fan looked surprised to see the fruit. ¡°Heartmoon Sacred Fruit!¡±

    Heartmoon Sacred Fruits were incredibly precious objects. A Heartmoon Sacred Fruit could raise a Yuanfu realm martial artist¡¯s cultivation level by a small realm, and even Core Formation realm experts could use it. Its rarity would undoubtedly incite frenzied battles if brought to the outside world.

    Everyone around the smallke turned and looked at Chen Fan when they heard his surprised gasp.

    ¡°Another one is here.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, he is merely at the seventh level. What difference can he make? All he can do is watch.¡±

    After looking at Chen Fan once, they faintly smiled and turned away, ignoring him.

    A lean, blue-clothed youth walked over and smiled. ¡°Impressive observation, brother. You recognized the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit at a nce, that too from so far away.¡±

    Chen Fan nced at him. Among the group, his cultivation wasn''t particrly remarkable. Like Chen Fan, he was also at the seventh level.

    ¡°You tter me.¡± Chen Fan smiled. He asked, ¡°Why haven''t any of you taken the fruit yet?¡±

    Chen Fan felt puzzled. A treasure as precious as the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit would typically lead to fiercepetition among the people.

    That Heartmoon Sacred Tree had only one fruit left, yet none of them made a move. They all gazed at it as if in a trance, leaving Chen Fan bewildered.

    ¡°Does theke have some sort of guardian demon beast? Is that why you are hesitating, brother?¡±

    The blue-clothed youth smiled bitterly and said, ¡°That¡¯s not it. It''s not that we don''t want to take the sacred fruit, but rather, weck the strength to do so.

    ¡°That Heartmoon Sacred Tree had borne three sacred fruits. Two of them were picked away by two monstrously powerful figures, leaving thisst one behind.¡±

    ¡°It bore three Heartmoon Sacred Fruits?¡±

    Chen Fan was shocked because ancient texts state that a Heartmoon Sacred Tree could only produce a single fruit.

    The blue-clothed youth said, ¡°The Nebulous Mysterious Realm is no ordinary ce. Let alone the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, but even the rarer Ghost King Fruit Tree can bear multiple fruits here."

    ¡°There''s a Ghost King Fruit Tree here?!¡± Chen Fan was astonished.

    A short distance away, a young woman with snow-white skin nced at Chen Fan andughed coldly. ¡°Even if there are Heartmoon Sacred Fruits and Ghost King Fruits, only capable and strong martial artists can pick them. Those without strength can only watch.¡±

    ¡°Is it challenging to pick it?¡±

    Chen Fan walked toward the smallke, staring at the moon-white sacred tree in theke''s center, and inhaled the faint fragrance of the fruit. He felt a soothing sensation throughout his body, with some of his hidden injuries even improving slightly.

    The young woman looked contemptuously at Chen Fan and said, ¡°So many of us here have already tried and failed to pick it. So, you tell me, is it difficult or not? I advise you not to try, or you might fall into the sacredke. The darkher cold water of theke will turn you into an ice sculpture.¡±

    The blue-clothed youth also smiled and said, ¡°Brother, this fairy has a point. The Heartmoon Sacred Fruit isn¡¯t something you can pick just because you want to. It¡¯s impossible to resist the invasive cold energy of the darkher cold waters without strengthparable to the top ten rankers of the Influential Figures Leaderboard. Even Core Formation realm experts would be in serious trouble if they fell into theke.¡±

    Chen Fan walked over to the sacredke¡¯s side. Indeed, he sensed a frigid qi rolling toward him.

    ¡°I want to give it a try.¡± Chen Fan smiled lightly.

    The young woman, with skin as fair as a snow lotus, watched Chen Fan''s actions and shed a mocking expression. ¡°Overestimating yourself.¡±

    That blue-clothed youth quickly walked over and tried to dissuade Chen Fan, warning him of the dangers. ¡°Brother, the surface of the sacredke is peculiar. No matter how high your cultivation, you can''t fly, and the darkher cold waters are deadly. Contact with it freezes the primeval force and vessel within a martial artist. If you doubt me, just look at theke''s bottom."

    Chen Fan shifted his gaze to the bottom of theke.

    Four martial artistsy frozen at the bottom, transformed into clusters of ice crystals resembling sculptures devoid of life.

    ¡°The four of them were all at the ninth level. You will die here if you fall into the water while trying to pluck the fruit.¡± The youth let out a long sigh.

 Chapter 327 - Attempt at Picking

    <h4>Chapter 327 - Attempt at Picking</h4>

    Chen Fan became cautious.

    Although hisbat strength was the highest among those present, theke could even kill those at the ninth level, so it was definitely extraordinary.

    Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he didn¡¯t dare to be careless. His expression became grave.

    ¡°Brother, you said this Heartmoon Sacred Tree bore three fruits, and two have already been picked. How did they manage to pluck them?" Chen Fan asked.

    If others had seeded in plucking two fruits, there had to be a way to pick thest one, too.

    The blue-clothed youthughed and said, ¡°Those two are monsters on the Influential Figures Leaderboard, and they came well-prepared. They also practiced cold-attributed cultivation techniques, granting them considerable resistance to the darkher cold waters. They both stood on this side and picked it with their primeval force.

    ¡°We tried to do the same. However, we don¡¯t practice cold-attributed cultivation techniques, so our primeval force barely extended thirty to forty meters before solidifying into ice.

    ¡°There, you see that ck-clothed youth? He¡¯s at the ninth level and has the highest cultivation among us. He practices a fire-attributed cultivation technique and has strong resistance against the cold. Even so, his primeval force only reached seventy meters at the most before it got frozen, still far from reaching the sacred tree at thirty-some meters away.

    ¡°As for these four at the bottom of theke, they were blinded by greed and tried to tread on the water. Unfortunately, theke could freeze even Core Formation realm experts, not to mention Yuanfu realm martial artists.

    ¡°Now, everyone knows how dangerous this ce is, so the weaker martial artists don¡¯t want to try. Even if they did, they''d undoubtedly make extensive preparations and have apanion for safety. Consequently, we don¡¯t see as many idents as before now.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded. Plucking the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit wasn''t simple; therefore, many observers refrained from taking action.

    That young woman wanted to see Chen Fan make a fool of himself. She urged from the side, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you want to give it a try? Why aren¡¯t you making a move?¡±

    Chen Fan nced at the woman, a hint of frostiness in his eyes.

    Based on her clothing, he could tell that she came from the same sect as Meng Chong and He Changzai¡ªthe Cloud Heaven Pce.

    After a moment of contemtion, Chen Fan resolved to try to pluck the fruit.

    If he could consume this Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, he would advance to the eighth level, and his strength would skyrocket. At that time, he wouldn¡¯t be as powerless as before to retaliate against an Illusory Core realm expert like Xue Tianhe.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll give it a try, then.¡±

    Chen Fan stepped forward and stood at the edge of theke.

    At the side, the young woman let out a low sneer, the contempt in her eyes bing increasingly clearer and thicker.

    So many people here, including several at the eighth level, had tried and failed. What could someone at merely the seventh level do?

    The blue-clothed youth¡¯s mouth twitched, no longer trying to dissuade him.

    After all, not everyone could resist the temptation of the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit. Unsurprisingly, Chen Fan held a hint of fantasy in his heart.

    The blue-clothed youth also used to be like that.

    Chen Fan ignored that young woman and reached out with his right hand, channeling a wisp of pure primeval force toward the tree at theke''s center.

    His primeval force was like a strand of thin silk flying over theke''s surface.

    Ten meters.

    Twenty meters.

    Thirty-five meters.

    ......

    Everyone nearby watched in astonishment as Chen Fan maneuvered his primeval force over theke.

    Some seventh-level martial artists had previously tried to do the same, but their primeval force had frozen after traveling around thirty meters. Chen Fan had maneuvered his primeval force for thirty-five meters, and he was still going.

    ¡°This guy is not simple. Thirty meters is the limit for ordinary experts at the seventh level, but he has already surpassed forty meters.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, it¡¯s already fifty meters.¡±

    ¡°F-fifty meters! Only those at the eighth level can reach that far. That means he¡¯s as strong as them.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The sacredke served as a gauge of one''s strength. The distance one''s primeval force could reach revealed their prowess.

    Chen Fan, with his seventh-level cultivation, had managed to maneuver his primeval force for fifty meters. That left many surprised.

    That young woman from the Cloud Heaven Pce was also shocked. She was at the early stage of the eighth level. Her primeval force had only traveled fifty meters before freezing. Didn¡¯t that mean Chen Fan was as strong as her?

    She was surprised, but her contempt still hadn¡¯t died down.

    Let alone fifty meters, even if he could maneuver it for ny meters, it would be all for naught if he failed to pluck the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit from the tree.

    Chen Fan had already sensed that his wisp of primeval force had started freezing under the darkher cold waters¡¯ cold energy. He could hear cracking noises.

    At seventy meters, he couldn¡¯t maneuver it as quickly; eventually, he couldn¡¯t move it at all. It solidified into a rod and fell into the water with a ssh.

    ¡°It can freeze primeval force, indeed.¡± Chen Fan furrowed his brow.

    Although he failed to pick the fruit, no one aroundughed at him.

    Instead, a strange light shone in many people¡¯s eyes. When they looked at Chen Fan, there was now a hint of respect in their gazes.

    Only those at the ninth level could maneuver their primeval force for seventy meters, but someone at the seventh level had done the same. This was enough to show that the purity of his primeval force far surpassed everyone present.

    ¡°Amazing, it actually flew seventy meters out. That¡¯sparable to a ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert!¡±

    ¡°His primeval force is very pure, and it also carries a hint of the powers of lightning. It¡¯s very unusual.¡±

    ¡°It seems he¡¯s a genius who can fight against those above his cultivation level. He¡¯s not simple. I wonder which sect¡¯s disciple is he.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Brother, I must admit, I didn''t expect you to maneuver your primeval force for seventy meters. Impressive.¡± The blue-clothed youthughed.

    The young woman¡¯s mocking voice rang out as she said, ¡°Hoho, what use is that? If he can''t reach the fruit, it''s all for naught, even if he can extend it to ny-nine meters."

    Chen Fan frowned and shot a nce at that young woman.

    ¡°What, did I say something wrong?¡± she retorted, raising an eyebrow with a cold smile.

    "Ignorant," Chen Fan said icily.

    ¡°You...¡±

    The woman became angry, but the angry look immediately disappeared, and she crossed her arms. ¡°Hmph, I can¡¯t be bothered arguing with you. This Heartmoon Sacred Fruit doesn¡¯t belong to you. I already notified Senior Brother Qiu Beihai; only he can pick this Heartmoon Sacred Fruit.¡±

    The nearby crowd¡¯s expressions immediately changed.

 Chapter 328 - Obtaining the Sacred Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 328 - Obtaining the Sacred Fruit</h4>

    When the woman mentioned that name, the nearby crowd¡¯s expressions changed, and they broke into discussion.

    ¡°Qiu Beihai... Heavens! He is ranked tenth on the leaderboard and has already cultivated his illusory core. He could likely advance to the Core Formation realm with this Heartmoon Sacred Fruit and overtake those ranked above him.¡±

    ¡°It seems like the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit is destined for Qiu Beihai. He can surely pluck that fruit.¡±

    ¡°I heard he is quite temperamental and kills like it''s nothing. Maybe we should leave, just in case he turns violent and kills us all?¡±

    ¡°That... is possible.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Listening to their murmurs, the young woman looked smug. She nced at Chen Fan inconspicuously; a hint of icy killing intent shed in her eyes. <i>You dare call me ignorant. When Senior Brother Qiu Beihai is here, I¡¯ll ask him to cripple you. I¡¯ll have fun torturing you, and then I will throw you into theke!</i>

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrows slightly. The crowd¡¯s reactions told him that Qiu Beihai was a powerful figure.

    ¡°Influential Figures Leaderboard...¡±

    A thoughtful gleam flickered in Chen Fan''s eyes. He had never heard of such a leaderboard in the Great Chu Empire; only the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard existed.

    However, those people on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard were all exceptionally talented young experts in the Core Formation realm, like Duan Jingtian.

    A voice rang in Chen Fan¡¯s ear.

    ¡°Brother, you¡¯re in trouble.¡±

    The blue-clothed youth had sent him a voice transmission using his primeval force.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    The blue-clothed youth said, ¡°Qiu Beihai is monstrously strong. He is just a step away from the Core Formation realm. If that woman asks him to kill you for calling her ignorant, he will do it. I advise you to leave before Qiu Beihai arrives, or you will lose your life for nothing.¡±

    He was concerned about Chen Fan''s safety. After all, Qiu Beihai was infamous in the Wuning Empire, notorious for his countless killings. Anyone who provoked him was virtually signing their death warrant, regardless of their status or background.

    The blue-clothed youth didn¡¯t think Chen Fan could defeat Qiu Beihai.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Thank you for your concern, brother, but I want to witness Qiu Beihai¡¯s strength.¡±

    ¡°You... haaa, why do this? A moment of false bravado could cost you your life. It¡¯s really not worth it.¡± The blue-clothed youth sighed.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°You¡¯re exaggerating. Besides, even if I were to leave, I''d prefer to get the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit first."

    The blue-clothed youth paused for a moment, then uttered, ¡°You... Haaa, whatever.¡±

    Having exhausted his attempts to persuade Chen Fan, he shrugged mentally.

    After all, he was not rted to Chen Fan. His efforts so far had already been beyond what could be expected.

    Chen Fan offered him a smile before turning his gaze to the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, his expression turning serious.

    His probing earlier had helped him gain a rough understanding of the darkher cold waters. It was indeed very terrifying.

    However, Chen Fan possessed the heaven-refining mes.

    If he encased his primeval force in heaven-refining mes, the darkher cold waters would fail to freeze his primeval force.

    ¡°Go!¡±

    Two bolts of thunderous light shot from Chen Fan''s eyes as he channeled another thread of primeval force, directing it toward the Heartmoon Sacred Tree.

    "He''s not giving up, huh?"

    ¡°It¡¯s futile. He can maneuver his primeval force for seventy meters, but the final thirty meters is like crossing an insurmountable chasm. No matter how many times he tries, it¡¯s futile.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Even thatst meter will be a challenge.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd shook their heads one after another.

    The young woman at the side couldn''t help but sneer mockingly. She said bluntly, ¡°You¡¯re still not giving up? It¡¯s useless. You won¡¯t make it even if you tried a thousand or ten thousand times.¡±

    Chen Fan paid her no mind, brushing off her remarks. Meanwhile, the crowd began to notice that something was amiss.

    ¡°Hmm? Something¡¯s not right. Look at his primeval force. There''s a me flickering atop it."

    ¡°It¡¯s true! Heavens, could it be that he practices a fire-attributed cultivation technique?¡±

    "What kind of me is that? It''s unsettling..."

    ¡°......¡±

    Thin tendrils of white mes could be seen wrapped around Chen Fan''s primeval force, almost invisible unless one looked closely.

    Everyone¡¯s expressions changed at the discovery.

    Chen Fan''s previous strand of primeval forcecked any mes yet managed to travel seventy meters.

    The primeval force could resist the darkher cold waters¡¯ cold energy with this me. Perhaps it could really reach a hundred meters and pick the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit.

    Many people¡¯s eyes flickered.

    That young woman¡¯s expression also changed. A cold look shed in her eyes, praying for Qiu Beihai to quickly get here. It would be troublesome if Chen Fan obtained the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit.

    Soon, Chen Fan¡¯s wisp of primeval force flew seventy meters out. It had frozen at this point previously.

    However, with the heavenly refining mes coating the surface of the primeval force, it resisted the cold energy of the darkher waters. There was no indication of freezing.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s already eighty meters out!¡±

    ¡°Heavens. He might actually seed in grabbing the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit.¡±

    ¡°His cultivation technique must be extraordinary. The other martial artists who practice fire-attributed cultivation techniques, even those at the ninth level, could only reach eighty meters at the most before they could no longer ward off the cold energy. Look at his primeval force. There are no signs of freezing at all.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s at ny meters now. Just the final ten meters left.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone in the crowd grew excited as if they were about to get their hand on the fruit.

    Ny-five meters.

    Ny-eight meters.

    Ny-nine meters.

    Soon, Chen Fan¡¯s wisp of primeval force was just a meter away from the Heartmoon Sacred Tree in the middle of theke.

    Everyone watched with bated breath.

    There was only the final meter left.

    Many people¡¯s eyes were flickering with a cold light, revolving their cultivation. The moment Chen Fan seeded in plucking the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, they wouldunch a lethal strike at him.

    If it were Qiu Beihai in Chen Fan''s position, the idea of killing others and stealing their treasures would never cross their minds, even with their numerical advantage.

    But Chen Fan was different.

    He was only a kid at the seventh level. Even though he practiced a powerful cultivation technique, his cultivation level was there for all to see. Even if he could fight those at a higher cultivation level than him, fighting an eighth-level expert was likely his limit.

    <i>Chh!</i>

    A subtle sound rang out. This wisp of primeval force from Chen Fan broke through and touched the Heartmoon Sacred Tree.

    Chen Fan manipted his primeval force with difficulty and wrapped it around the sacred fruit on the tree, picking it off.

    ¡°Return!¡± Chen Fan shouted fiercely. The wisp of primeval force flew back with the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit.

    The onlookers remained motionless, holding back their strikes for now. If they struck now, Chen Fan¡¯s control over his primeval force would falter, and the fruit could fall into theke.

    They all waited for the precise moment Chen Fan had the fruit in his hand.

    <i>Eighty meters.</i>

    <i>Sixty meters.</i>

    <i>Thirty meters.</i>

    <i>Ten meters.</i>

    <i>Five meters.</i>

    <i>Three meters.</i>

    <i>......</i>

    Many people were counting down in their hearts, the light in their eyes increasingly brighter.

    The moment Chen Fan grabbed the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit in his hand, a cold voice suddenly rang out. ¡°Do it!¡±

 Chapter 329 - Tiger at the Front, Wolves at the Back

    <h4>Chapter 329 - Tiger at the Front, Wolves at the Back</h4>

    ¡°Do it!¡±

    With that order, those poised to strikeunched fierce assaults against Chen Fan one by one.

    They surged forward like raging waves or ancient beasts, ready to engulf Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan did not panic, as this was within his expectations. So, taking precautions was inevitable.

    When the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit had been just a meter away from his hands, he had unleashed his Wings of Rain Dragon. With a single powerful p, a gust as sharp as knives erupted, pushing Chen Fan away from danger.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Those people¡¯s attacks struck the spot Chen Fan had been on, creating arge pit in the ground.

    Since Chen Fan had been standing close to theke, the attack also sent the darkher cold waters flying; soon, it cascaded down like rain.

    The water dropletsnded on some of these people. Immediately, miserable screams rang out as they quickly revolved their cultivation to ward off the cold energy.

    Chen Fan did not care about them. He put the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit away and flew into the distance.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    ¡°Give chase! We can¡¯t let this brat get away!¡±

    ¡°That damned brat, he¡¯s actually so crafty.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    After their simultaneous attacks failed against Chen Fan, they grew immediately furious. They cursed loudly before giving chase, resembling devils and monsters.

    Chen Fan soon retracted the Wings of Rain Dragon.

    This mountain was very bizarre; flying into the sky here was tantamount to inviting death.

    Chen Fan rushed down the mountain with his legs moving as swiftly as the wind.

    Once he escaped this mountain, the skies would be free for the birds to fly and the seas wide enough for the fish to leap. Those in pursuit could never catch up.

    The crowd at the back shouted scornfully.

    ¡°Brat, don¡¯t even think of fleeing!¡±

    ¡°Leave the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit behind, and maybe you''ll live to see tomorrow!¡±

    ¡°You can''t outrun us. Surrender the fruit, and perhaps we''ll spare your life. Otherwise, the only road ahead of you is death.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan ignored them. He would have killed them all if he hadn¡¯t been worried about attracting some expert.

    Meanwhile, a white-clothed silhouette arrived at the mountain foot. Seemingly aware that flying in the skies above this mountain was forbidden, they raced up the mountain,nding swiftly.

    ¡°It looks like this is the ce Junior Sister Sihan mentioned. Heartmoon Sacred Fruit... Perfect. After consuming it, I can try advancing to the Core Formation realm, solidifying my illusory core. Then, I can dominate the entire Nebulous Mysterious Realm and seize more treasures and opportunities."

    After receiving information from Lin Sihan, Qiu Beihai had rushed over.

    ¡°Hopefully, the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit hasn''t been taken yet. Of course, it¡¯s fine, even if someone has already picked it. Others will have to offer it up with both hands if it¡¯s something that I, Qiu Beihai,y im to. Otherwise, my blood saber won''t hesitate to im another soul.¡±

    Entering the mountain, Qiu Beihai moved swiftly, sweeping across like a wisp of white smoke and soon arriving at the ancient trees.

    Before he got far, he came across Chen Fan rushing out and was slightly taken aback.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Chen Fan also noticed Qiu Beihai and sensed his formidable qi, which wasparable to Zhao Tianjue but weaker than Xue Tianhe. His illusory core seemed halfwayplete.

    ¡°Kid, why the rush? Tell me, where''s the sacredke? I heard there¡¯s a Heartmoon Sacred Fruit there. Lead me, and I''ll consider it a favor when I obtain it. There will be no shortage of benefits for you. I can even allow you to follow me,¡± Qiu Beihai said proudly.

    Chen Fan ignored him, held his iron spear tightly, and prepared to execute his devastating thrust at any moment.

    Among the pursuers, Lin Sihan noticed Qiu Beihai and immediately shouted, ¡°Senior Brother Qiu, quick, stop him! That brat picked the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit and is trying to flee!¡±

    However, Chen Fan had alreadyunched an attack on Qiu Beihai.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    As his spear moved, it seemed to carry a terrifying might that could pierce through the sky.

    An aura of death instantly enveloped Qiu Beihai. However, being among the top ten on the Influential Figures Leaderboard and a cultivator in the Illusory Core realm, he swiftly regained hisposure. His cultivation surged, and he countered with a palm strike.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    Chen Fan''s spear pierced through Qiu Beihai''s palm seal as smooth as a hot knife through butter.

    Yet, in that split second, Qiu Beihai drew his blood saber andunched a counterattack.

    ¡°Running away, eh? So, you''re the one who dared to snatch my sacred fruit. That¡¯s an act no different from courting death. I¡¯m giving you a chance to live right now. Kneel, hand over the sacred fruit with both hands, break your arm, and I will spare your life. Otherwise, face the edge of my blood saber. I have killed at least eight hundred, if not a thousand, weaklings at the seventh level like you,¡± said Qiu Beihai, but his attacks did not stop. He chopped down with his saber, bursting with a bloody light, and shed violently with Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The saber and spear collided. The tremendous force sent ripples flying out, turning the surrounding ancient trees into splinters that flew in all directions.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    The aftershock created a terrifying whirlwind, sweeping in all directions. Large chunks of the soil on the ground flew up. It was a mess.

    This saber pushed Chen Fan back, but Qiu Beihai was also knocked back repeatedly, leaving numerous inch-deep footprints on the ground.

    The pursuing crowd stopped when they saw this scene; their expressions darkened.

    Since Qiu Beihai had arrived, they could no longer have designs on the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit.

    They were also stunned. Everyone here was familiar with Qiu Beihai¡¯s great name. They didn¡¯t expect a lowly seventh-level expert like Chen Fan to exchange moves with Qiu Beihai ande out unscathed.

    ¡°Damn it, Qiu Beihai arrived so soon. That Heartmoon Sacred Fruit no longer has anything to do with us.¡±

    ¡°That might not necessarily be true. That kid may only be at the seventh level, but he came outpletely fine after shing with Qiu Beihai. He¡¯s definitely not weak. Let him exhaust Qiu Beihai, and then we¡¯ll strike together. Perhaps we can even take down Qiu Beihai together.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Let¡¯s wait and see first. Let them fight it out while we wait for our chance.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Naturally, these people didn¡¯t want to give up on the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit easily. They all waited a distance away, their gazes flickering, wishing Chen Fan would be a little stronger. It would be best if both became gravely injured. That way, they would be the fishermen that benefited from the side.

    ¡°Hoho, you¡¯re not bad, kid. To be able to block my counterattack, you should be as strong as someone at the ninth level.¡±

    Qiu Beihai blocked Chen Fan¡¯s way down the mountain, holding his blood saber horizontally and stretching his neck, looking ferocious.

    ¡°But even if it¡¯s the ninth-level Yuanfu realm experts, I have killed countless of them. I advise you to kneel and drop the idea of resisting. Hand over the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit and I can give you a way out. Otherwise, there¡¯s no way you can escape from me.¡±

 Chapter 330 - Intense Fight

    <h4>Chapter 330 - Intense Fight</h4>

    Qiu Beihai looked at Chen Fan with a savage smile. A surge of saber qi emanated from him, piercing the sky. It was like he was a cat toying with a mouse, waiting for Chen Fan¡¯s choice. Would he choose life or death?

    Chen Fan maintained a stern expression as his icy voice resounded. ¡°Cut the nonsense. It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t fought an Illusory Core realm before. Compared to them, you''re the weakest. Thinking you can kill me? You''re delusional!"

    Qiu Beihai was an Illusory Core realm expert but slightly inferior to Zhao Tianjue.

    If Zhao Tianjue couldn''t defeat Chen Fan, how could Qiu Beihai, especially now that Chen Fan had grown stronger?

    Chen Fan¡¯s words ignited a fierce gleam in Qiu Beihai''s eyes. A brat at the seventh level had dared to look down on him.

    ¡°Well, well, well. Your cultivation is so low, yet you speak so wildly. Fine. Since you crave death, I shall oblige.¡±

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s voice was icy, and he looked at Chen Fan like he was already dead.

    Chen Fan''s disdainful attitude sealed his fate in Qiu Beihai''s eyes. Such insolence warranted a certain death.

    Qiu Beihai suddenly lunged out, setting off a violent wind that ripped through the ground. The wind carried a scorching heat.

    Qiu Beihai raised his blood saber high, his aura surging. It was iparably ferocious. As he shed down, mes erupted, engulfing the area in searing heat.

    ¡°Five mes Saber Light!¡±

    mes danced on the blood saber, making the surrounding air copse with a charred scent lingering in the atmosphere. Interweaving saber light formed a fiery web that enveloped Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan roared and pushed his cultivation to its limits. Power surged from his flesh and blood while streaks of lightning primal force spun at high speeds. With a single jolt, he dispersed the oing mes.

    ¡°Break!¡± A demonic aura emanated from Chen Fan''s iron spear.

    That hellish aura also shrouded Chen Fan. He seemed like a demon king emerging from the Avici hell, wielding a demonic spear and annihting heaven and earth.

    The iron spear shook, pierced, pushed, picked, pressed, swept...

    With thousands of variations to a single move, Chen Fan¡¯s proficiency in the spear art had the air of a great expert.

    Air would part with each thrust, and his strikes were so devastating that even a qi wall as hard as steel couldn¡¯t stop them.

    ¡°Skyreaching Absolute Saber Light!¡±

    Qiu Beihai felt immense pressure as Chen Fan''s spear bore down on him, making him feel iparably small. He realized that this pressure was the oppression from the attack.

    He roared furiously, and his force increased by thirty percent. Saber lights shed endlessly as he unleashed a barrage of attacks, shing out dozens of strikes in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Even if you have thousands of methods, I will break them all with a single spear!¡±

    Chen Fan exuded an unwavering fighting spirit, his gaze devoid of fear. He was no match when facing Xue Tianhe, but Qiu Beihai was a level or two below him.

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s illusory core was only forty percent solid, while Xue Tianhe¡¯s had reached an impressive eighty percent. He was only a step away from bing a true Core Formation realm expert.

    In the Illusory Core realm, a mere ten percent gap equated to the gulf between those at the eighth and those at the ninth level.

    Had Chen Fan fought Qiu Beihai before they entered the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, Chen Fan would have been powerless.

    However, after consuming the Golden-Capped Silver Ring Grass, Chen Fan had improved the toughness of his flesh to a much higher degree. Moreover, he was now at thete stage of the seventh level and had learned the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    In a manner of speaking, hisbat strength had doubled since he entered the mysterious realm. So, he wasn¡¯t afraid of Qiu Beihai.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s spear attack varied in thousands of ways, filling the space with their silhouettes. They shed fiercely against Qiu Beihai''s saber light, resulting in deafening explosions and a storm that ravaged the surroundings.

    "What an astonishing fight!"

    ¡°Heavens, it¡¯s no wonder that guy could get the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit. He definitely has thebat strength of an Illusory Core realm expert.¡±

    ¡°This is the stuff of legends, a genuine monster! A seventh-level Yuanfu realm expert is fighting with an Illusory Core realm expert without being at a disadvantage. Heavens, if news of this spreads, the entire Wuning Empire will be left shaken."

    ¡°It¡¯s not just the Wuning Empire. I think the entire Hong Domain will experience an earthquake.¡±

    ¡°Keep watching. The stronger this guy is, the better it is for us. If both of them are severely injured, we might have an opportunity to benefit."

    ¡°Right, let¡¯s watch.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Looking shocked, the surrounding spectators gradually retreated.

    The shock waves generated by the two¡¯s intense collisions were too terrifying. Even a mere brush of it could make someone at the seventh level cough blood.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength had been so shocking that their eyeballs had nearly jumped out of their sockets.

    The young woman, Lin Sihan¡¯s, expression didn¡¯t look too good.

    Previously, she had insulted and mocked Chen Fan because of his low cultivation level. Yet, he was now fighting on par with her respected Senior Brother Qiu Beihai.

    She wondered if Chen Fan saw her as a monkey doing tricks all this time. This was simply a p to her face.

    ¡°He¡¯s actually so powerful...¡± The blue-clothed youth was also dumbfounded.

    When the crowd hadunched a sneak attack on Chen Fan to get the fruit, he didn¡¯t make a move. He had expected Chen Fan to perish in this crisis; unexpectedly, Chen Fan was so strong that even Qiu Beihai could not bring him down.

    ¡°Go and die! Die! Die!¡± Qiu Beihai¡¯s expression had turned evil.

    Even he hadn''t anticipated Chen Fan''s strength, matching him blow for blow without faltering. The recoiling from his blood saber had even shocked him.

    He had thought Chen Fan was only bluffing. However, given the current situation, perhaps Chen Fan had fought other Illusory Core realm experts before, experts no weaker than him.

    Qiu Beihai had a crazed expression on his face. The blood saber was like a mad horse without reins as he chopped and shed with reckless abandon. Crimson saber lights swept about, carrying terrifying mes that spread everywhere.

    Undaunted, Chen Fan met each of the attacks head-on with his spear.

    With every thrust, Chen Fan''s spear unleashed a might akin to a volcanic eruption, lightning strike, or flood crashing. A violent storm of qi shook heaven and earth.

    <i>ng, ng, ng, ng, ng...</i>

    The two engaged in a fierce sh; spear silhouettes and saber lights covered the surrounding thousand feet. A disaster befell the tall ancient trees. Saber marks and spear marks littered the area, creating a chaotic scene.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The two figures separated and fell back.

    A terrifying storm of wind raged unceasingly in the middle of the two, emitting destructive ripples that made others¡¯ hearts skip a beat.

    The wave of qi rose to a hundred meters high and rippled majestically.

    ¡°Now, what do you say? Still want to kill me? You are the weakest among the Illusory Core realms I¡¯ve fought against. Yet, your tone doesn¡¯t match your strength¡ªa ssic case of biting off more than you can chew."

    Chen Fan stood tall, wielding his spear. An imposing aura surrounded him as if he could pierce through the heavens with a single thrust, his gaze indifferent as he locked eyes with Qiu Beihai.

 Chapter 331 - End in a Draw

    <h4>Chapter 331 - End in a Draw</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s contemptuous words had ignited Qiu Beihai''s fury, making him seethe with anger.

    As a revered expert of the Illusory Core realm, holding the prestigious tenth position on the Wuning Empire''s Influential Figures Leaderboard, how could he let some brat at the seventh level mock him?

    To add insult to injury, he had done so in front of so many people. It felt even worse than killing him.

    His eyes turned bloodshot. The killing intenting from him was shocking. His saber qi also grew increasingly boundless and fierce.

    ¡°You damned little bastard. You¡¯re too arrogant. Did you think that was my true strength? Let me tell you. I haven¡¯t even used eighty percent of my strength yet.

    ¡°Unfortunately, you¡¯vepletely angered me, you know? There''s no turning back now. You¡¯ll regret this. No, you¡¯re already no longer qualified to regret. Once you provoked my wrath, your fate was sealed."

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s aura grew increasingly vigorous, like mes, burning even brighter and brighter.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The saber qi billowed outward, its eerie howl echoing through the surroundings. It seemed like a terrifying god of death was about to descend into the mortal world.

    ¡°Little bastard, you have made the biggest mistake of your life by angering me. Prepare yourself because you are about to meet the god of death. I hold your life now within the palms of my hand!¡±

    The bone-chilling deration reverberated, sending shivers down the spines of the onlookers.

    ¡°Hiss, such terrifying aura. My legs are trembling. Am I standing before the god of death? I can¡¯t even think of resisting it.¡±

    ¡°So, this is the terrifying strength of someone within the top ten of the Influential Figures Leaderboard. That kid is in for a bad time.¡±

    "Surviving the wrath of an Illusory Core realm expert is no small feat."

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby onlookers were gripped by fear and trepidation, their eyes widening in rm.

    Under the oppression of this terrifying aura, they could not even think of putting up any resistance. It seemed like their lives were no longer in their hands but in Qiu Beihai¡¯s grasp.

    If Qiu Beihai wanted them dead, then there was no way they could live!

    ¡°Mountain River Disintegrating sh!¡±

    Qiu Beihai stepped forward, appearing in front of Chen Fan as if he had teleported.

    He infused his qi into his blood saber. His saber qi extended three meters, its sharp aura cutting heaven and earth. His aura was suffocating.

    Blood-colored saber light surged and erupted. An image of mountains and rivers disintegrating appeared at Qiu Beihai¡¯s back as if this attack had caused all of it. And as he shed down with the saber, it felt like it would indeed destroy mountains and rivers.

    ¡°Devastating thrust!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, sensing this saber''s terrifying strength and the intense danger. The wrath of an Illusory Core realm expert was indeed very terrifying.

    Or perhaps it would be more urate to say any martial artists¡¯ attacking power would increase when they were enraged.

    Within Chen Fan¡¯s dantian, all seven of his illusory primeval vessels revolved simultaneously.

    A terrifying gale swept out from him, forming ripples in space. He shook his arm, and a spear materialized in his hands, capable of destroying anything.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Deafening noises rang out like thunder, rumbling non-stop.

    Those nearby waiting to y the oriole felt their qi and blood churning from the shock. Some with lower cultivation levels even spewed blood and had to fall back further.

    ¡°Brat, this saber will kill you! Die for me! Heavy Mountains Uprooted, A Single Saber Shocks the World and Cuts Down Ten Thousand!¡± Qiu Beihai roared furiously, his aura rising once more.

    The saber qi grew even more berserk. It seemed as though mountains had materialized out of thin air, only to be cleaved into oblivion by the sheer force of his sh, ttening thendscape in its wake.

    The saber light whistled and stormed, flying toward Chen Fan, carrying a scorching heat in its sharpness and destroying everything with a sh.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan remained unfazed. With a shake of his hand, the iron spear struck the saber light urately, deflecting it upwards.

    ¡°Now, it¡¯s your turn to receive a palm from me! Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure shifted repeatedly, appearing above Qiu Beihai. His intent to reap lives blossomed as a three-wed palm smashed down through the air, and the air exploded.

    ¡°This is...¡±

    Qiu Beihai immediately felt an iparable sense of danger; his expression changed. His madness turned into horror.

    ¡°Earth tier martial skill...! To think you had such an ace up your sleeves!¡± Qiu Beihai roared as he pushed his cultivation to the limit. Primeval force surged and burst forth from him while his saber intent, capable of rending heaven and earth, enveloped him.

    ¡°Cleaving Through Heaven!¡±

    This, too, was an earth tier martial skill. The saber light flowed like silk, its momentum carrying it smoothly forward to sh against Chen Fan''s Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    ¡°I¡¯ll let you off this time. After I consume the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit and raise my cultivation, I¡¯ll kill you if I run into you again!¡±

    After executing the Northern Star Reaper Hand, Chen Fan swiftly darted down the mountainside.

    ¡°Damned little bastard, don¡¯t even think about escaping! Leave the sacred fruit behind!¡± Qiu Beihai roared angrily. His expression was fierce, and he gave chase like a madman.

    The nearby crowd¡¯s expressions had also changed drastically.

    None of them had imagined that the battle between Chen Fan and Qiu Beihai would turn out like this.

    The difference in cultivation levels between the two was massive, but their fight ended with a draw.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Chen Fan raced frantically along the mountain trail, swiftly reaching the mountain''s base. Qiu Beihai chased him furiously, determined not to let Chen Fan get away with the sacred fruit.

    ¡°Hmph, you¡¯d better pray not to run into me again, or it¡¯d be your death anniversary next year. I don¡¯t mind killing a genius in the top ten of the Influential Figures Leaderboard.¡±

    As soon as he was out of the mountain, Chen Fan executed the Wings of Rain Dragon and soared into the sky with a swish, flying carefreely and reaching a thousand meters away in the blink of an eye.

    Arriving at the mountain''s base, Qiu Beihai saw that Chen Fan had already fled far away. He knew that it would be impossible to catch up to him even if he pushed his movement techniques to the limit. Outraged, he roared angrily and shed wildly with his saber qi.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Damn it! Little bastard, don¡¯t let me see you again!¡±

    Qiu Beihai was so angry that he was losing his rationale. His sacred fruit, the one that could take him to the Core Formation realm, was just one.

    ¡°Heavens, he escaped.¡±

    The onlookers who arrivedter were taken aback by Qiu Beihai''s enraged outburst.

    They had hoped that Chen Fan and Qiu Beihai would fight to the death or end up severely injured, making it easy for them to pick up scraps. However, the result was unexpected.

    Suddenly, the crowd sensed an iparably cold killing intent enveloping them. They saw Qiu Beihai staring at them with bloodshot eyes.

    In a panic, the bystanders cursed inwardly, scrambling to flee.

    <i>Not good!</i>

    ¡°You people deserve to die as well!¡±

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s killing intent surged to the skies. With a swift sh of his saber, several unfortunate souls were cleaved in half before they could even utter a scream.

    ¡°Quickly run! This lunatic wants to take his anger out on us when he''s the one who failed!"

    "Hurry, head back up the mountain. He''s blocked the exit. Going outside means certain death."

    ¡°Don¡¯t run, let¡¯s strike together. He¡¯s already exhausted a huge amount of his energy. We can surely kill him if we join hands.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Panic gripped the crowd instantly, and they scattered like frightened animals, fleeing in all directions.

    ¡°Die! Die! Die!¡±

    A crimson light shed as agonized cries filled the air.

    Qiu Beihai mercilessly ughtered them, each victim falling with a single stroke of his de. No one could stop him.

 Chapter 332 - Eighth Level Yuanfu

    <h4>Chapter 332 - Eighth Level Yuanfu</h4>

    Up on the mountainside, the few fortunate souls were still reeling from the ordeal, venting their anger loudly.

    ¡°Damn it, Qiu Beihai, that fiend. He couldn¡¯t get the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, so he is venting his anger on us. What nonsense is this.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, he¡¯s too much!¡±

    ¡°Damn, luckily, I ran fast when I saw that things were looking bad, or I would have be another victim of his sword.¡±

    ¡°Serves him right! I would¡¯vepletely lost trust in this world if he had gotten the fruit.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Down at the mountain foot, Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes returned to normal after the massacre. His cold killing intent diminished, and his anger hadrgely subsided. He regained hisposure.

    The young woman, Lin Sihan, carefully approached him and asked timidly, ¡°Are you alright, Senior Brother Qiu?¡±

    ¡°Mmm, I¡¯m fine,¡± Qiu Beihai answered.

    Lin Sihan let out a sigh of relief.

    Even though they were fellow disciples, witnessing Qiu Beihai''s terrifying bloodbath moments ago had rattled her nerves. She could have been among the casualties if she hadn''t been from the Cloud Heaven Pce.

    ¡°What do we do now, Senior Brother Qiu?¡± Lin Sihan asked.

    An icy light shed across Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes. He said ruthlessly, ¡°That little bastard better not run into me again. Otherwise, I will cut him down even if I have to ignite my illusory core¡¯s powers! Damn it!¡±

    ¡°That little bastard deserves every bit of it!¡± Lin Sihan''s expression turned cold as she said, ¡°How dare he steal your sacred fruit? He deserves to die a thousand deaths!¡±

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s not talk about him. Tell me, are there any other treasures on this bizarre mountain?¡± Qiu Beihai asked.

    Though the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit was lost, obtaining a treasure of a simr nature could still push him into the Core Formation realm.

    ......

    ¡°Very good. With my current strength, I canpete with Illusory Core realm experts like Zhao Tianjue and Qiu Beihai. Although I can¡¯t gain the upper hand, they can¡¯t hurt me,¡± Chen Fan said as hended on a mountaintop, his gaze scanning the distance.

    ¡°The Heartmoon Sacred Fruit should push my cultivation to the eighth level. That will give me enough strength to suppress experts at Zhao Tianjue and Qiu Beihai¡¯s level. However, it would be troublesome if they ignored everything and ignited their illusory core...¡± Chen Fan muttered to himself, narrowing his eyes slightly.

    Although the Illusory Core realm was still part of the ninth level, martial artists at that level were stronger than ordinary Yuanfu realm cultivators and possessed techniques akin to those of Core Formation realm masters.

    If pushed into a corner and driven to ignore the consequences and ignite the power of their illusory core, their strength would skyrocket. They would be as strong as true Core Formation realm experts for a short while.

    ¡°What¡¯s most important is that I raise my cultivation level first. At my current level, I can¡¯t get better treasures and opportunities.¡±

    A sharp light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. His figure shed and swooped down, disappearing.

    Chen Fannded by a waterfall.

    Sitting cross-legged on a limestone, Chen Fan swallowed the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, shut his eyes, and began attempting a breakthrough.

    The Heartmoon Sacred Fruit dissolved into a cool fluid when it entered Chen Fan¡¯s mouth. It cascaded down his throat, then erupted violently within his stomach, akin to raging mes¡ªan eerie phenomenon.

    Maintaining hisposure, Chen Fan focused his thoughts, utilizing the Heaven Seizing Art to refine the medicinal essence of the fruit.

    In his dantian, his main primeval vessel shed with an immortal light, encircled by lightning, resembling a pce inhabited by the god of thunder, invible by all evil.

    Closer inspections would reveal that Chen Fan¡¯s main vessel had seven eaves, and the shadow of the eighth one had already appeared.

    As the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit¡¯s medicinal powers erupted, streaks of primeval force shing with glittering light started weaving the eighth floor of the primeval vessel like silk threads and bricks, gradually solidifying the illusory eighth level.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A thousand-foot-tall silver water dragon plummeted from the heavens, crashing and sending myriad water droplets flying. Under the sunlight''s refraction, a rainbow emerged; it was a splendid and beautiful sight.

    However, amidst the deafening roar and stunning scenery, Chen Fan remained unaffected, his mind wholly absorbed in cultivation.

    He constantly refined the Heartmoon Sacred Fruit, solidifying the pagoda¡¯s eighth floor further. It shed withyers of immortal light.

    Building one''s primeval vessel was a gradual process, requiring patience until each floor was fully formed. Chen Fan''s primeval force flowed like a steady stream, his aura growing stronger with each passing moment. Whirlwinds stirred around him, tossing nearby rocks in all directions.

    Soon, a day and night passed. Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s aura boiled fiercely, whipping the surrounding air into a frenzy akin to a category twelve hurricane. The wind sent hundred-jin rocks tumbling.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    A beam of light erupted from Chen Fan''s head, unveiling a primeval vessel resembling a thunderous immortal pce¡ªmajestic, boundless, and impervious to thews of nature.

    The primeval vessel resembled a pagoda with eight floors. Every floor was connected and glowed with immortal light,pletely in harmony with heaven and earth.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes, parted his lips, and exhaled a long breath.

    ¡°Phew.¡±

    He concentrated a bit of his qi into the shape of a pir as thin as a hair strand and threw it at a limestone column towering a hundred feet away with a roar. The entire structure erupted with a deafening bang, shattering into countless small rocks that scattered in all directions.

    ¡°Good! I¡¯ve finally reached the eighth level. If I were to face Qiu Beihai now, he wouldn''t stand a chance against me, even if he unleashed the powers of his illusory core!¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes narrowed slightly, gleaming with determination. He was in a good mood now and felt confident as his strength had skyrocketed.

    While he was at the seventh level, he could be considered first-rate among all those who had entered Nebulous Mysterious Realm. However, he fell short of being elite, as he couldn''t match individuals like Xue Tianhe.

    But now, even if he were to face Xue Tianhe, he wouldn''t be as helpless as he was in the Foggy Swamp.

    At the very least, Xue Tianhe could forget about taking him down if he did not ignite the powers of his illusory core.

    Illusory Core realm experts didn¡¯t ignite their illusory core unless faced with a life-threatening situation. Doing so equated to squandering years, if not decades, of bitter cultivation.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand, go!¡± Suddenly, Chen Fan raised his hand and thrust his palm. The waterfall at the side bore the brunt of the strike, its waters recoiling and gushing skyward.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    Cracks formed on the hard mountain body behind the waterfall. Fissures branched out like a spider''s web, threatening to destroy the entire mountainside.

    ¡°Good. Since my cultivation has improved greatly, executing the Northern Star Reaper Hand is easier. Its powers have increased considerably.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled faintly.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to go look for more opportunities and treasures!¡±

    A sharp light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He rose to the skies like a roc spreading its wings, gliding across the air; soon, he disappeared from sight.

 Chapter 333 - Nebulous Battle Palace

    <h4>Chapter 333 - Nebulous Battle Pce</h4>

    Ten days went by in a sh.

    In a small, dense forest:

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Chen Fan killed another blood demon with his spear and muttered, ¡°I wonder how many more blood demons there are in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm.¡±

    Several blood demons had attacked him when he came to this small forest.

    These blood demons were far weaker than Xue Tianhe. The strongest of them had recently reached the eighth level. Chen Fan slew them easily.

    ¡°It¡¯s been almost a month since I entered the mysterious realm. I''ll consider this training session over if I don''t find any valuable treasures in the next few days.¡±

    Chen Fan calcted in his mind. Over the past ten days, he had encountered some minor opportunities, but they had little impact on his cultivation.

    Just as he was about to leave the small forest, the space suddenly shook violently.

    Tens of thousands of miles away in the east, a rainbow light rushed into the sky, piercing the heavens.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze narrowed fiercely.

    This phenomenon was too grand. Everyone in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm could see it. The primeval qi of heaven and earth in the mysterious realm had also be much more active; it seemed it was about to go berserk.

    ¡°Is some huge opportunity appearing in this world?¡±

    Chen Fan quickly spread his Wings of Rain Dragon, confirmed the direction, and flew east.

    Meanwhile, the entire Nebulous Mysterious Realm was shaken.

    Everyone witnessed the astonishing phenomenon in the eastern sky regardless of their location or what they had been doing.

    They quickly stopped whatever they were doing. Their eyes flickered in excitement, and they immediately flew over in haste.

    ¡°Haha, this is unmistakably the sign of a rare treasure emerging. I must obtain it! Perhaps I can break through to the Core Formation realm with this.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, such a grand phenomenon. The treasure must be truly extraordinary," one remarked in awe.

    ¡°Heh heh, always opposing me, aren¡¯t you? Just you wait. The day I get my hands on that treasure is the day you die.¡±

    ¡°What shameless boasting. You have to get past us if you want to take the treasure.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Regardless of their previous pursuits, be it exploring alone or fighting to the death, most people put down whatever they were doing and hurried toward the rainbow pir.

    ......

    In a canyon, a youth with a sword to his back condensed his qi into a sword and slew two eighth-level Yuanfu realm demon beasts. He smiled faintly after picking the natural treasure these two demon beasts were guarding.

    Suddenly, he saw the phenomenon. This youth looked to the distance, and a shocking sword light burst from his eyes.

    ¡°This is... the Nebulous Battle Pce¡¯s opening. Good, very good! With my current strength, I can conquer the seventh stage at the very least. After obtaining the prize from the battle hall, I will be seventy percent confident in breaking through to the Core Formation realm.¡±

    This young swordsman unleashed his sword intent. His sword shot out of its sheath and floated in front of him. He jumped up on this sword and sped off as fast as lightning.

    ......

    Near a river bank, a purple-clothed woman was treading on water. A light flickered in her beautiful eyes when she saw the phenomenon.

    ¡°Legend has it that the Nebulous Mysterious Realm had a battle pce in ancient times. This battle pce is usually invisible, only revealing itself at specific opportune moments. Some specte it requires sufficient vitality energy to unlock, a theory not entirely unfounded.

    ¡°After all, this realm is a trial ground where death is inevitable. Their deaths would result in an abundance of vitality energy. Looks like many who entered the mysterious realm have died, thus unlocking the Nebulous Battle Pce.

    ¡°The Nebulous Battle Pce is supposed to be a treasure trove. It also has the Nebulous Divine Token that allows one to be a core disciple of the Nebulous Divine Pce.

    ¡°The Nebulous Divine Pce is now gone, but it will appear again one day. If I have that token, I can join it and have a certain advantage.¡±

    She rose into the air and sped off at great speed.

    ......

    Qiu Beihai and Lin Sihan were on a mountaintop.

    Pointing to the east, Lin Sihan directed Qiu Beihai''s attention to the colossal rainbow pir illuminating half the sky.

    ¡°Senior Brother, look over there.¡±

    Qiu Beihai, equally stunned, turned his gaze in that direction, his eyes darting with excitement.

    Lin Sihan asked, ¡°Senior Brother, could it be that an exceptional treasure has appeared in the world?¡±

    Qiu Beihai answered, ¡°No, the Nebulous Battle Pce has opened. It¡¯s the core area the Nebulous Divine Pce used in ancient times to test their disciples. It only opens when certain conditions are met.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see it. We''ve truly struck luck. It¡¯s filled with treasures, some of which can easily help me advance into the Core Formation realm. It would save me years of cultivation!

    ¡°Let¡¯s not waste any time. It caused too big of amotion, so everyone must have seen it. Countless others are likely rushing there as we speak. We should depart immediately to avoid falling behind.

    ¡°I can break through to the Core Formation realm as long as I enter the battle pce and obtain its treasures.¡±

    Qiu Beihai swiftlyunched himself into the air, streaking through the sky like an arrow.

    His protective primeval force rubbed violently against the air, giving birth to a zing me. His whole person was like a big ball of fire. Everywhere he passed, rumbling noises rang out.

    ¡°Wait for me, Senior Brother!¡±

    ......

    On a mountainside, Xue Tianhe nonchntly discarded the drained corpse he held. His evil gaze was set on the rainbow light pir, and his eyes narrowed slightly.

    ¡°The Nebulous Battle Pce has opened, huh.¡±

    ¡°Damn it! The righteous factions and the Nebulous Divine Pce were the reason behind our downfall. Yet, blood demons can not enter the battle pce, or else the energy within would obliterate us. Damn it! Damn it!¡± Xue Tianhe cursed.

    The treasures inside the Nebulous Battle Pce were also tempting to him. However, Xue Tianhe wouldn''t dare to venture into it.

    ¡°Never mind. I''ll wait outside. I will move when those who have cleared the stagese out. I will snatch their treasures. I will use this opportunity to break through to the Core Formation realm and kill everyone in the mysterious realm!¡±

    A very sinister light shed across Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes. His form blurred into a streak of crimson light, shooting off.

    ......

    The air blowing against his face was as sharp as a de.

    Chen Fan was like a big bird, flying across the skies extremely fast. Countless people were rushing to the battle pce with all their strength.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Sounds of wind breaking rose and fell in his ear as the air churned.

    These people executed all kinds of martial arts, all speeding across the sky. Their protective primeval force rubbed fiercely against the air, producing thunderous roars.

    While tens of thousands of miles may seem daunting to ordinary folk, requiring ten days to half a month to cross, or Yuanfu realm experts like Chen Fan, it was merely a matter of an hour or so.

 Chapter 334 - Pride of Heaven Gathered

    <h4>Chapter 334 - Pride of Heaven Gathered</h4>

    From a vastke with a radius of tens of miles, bursts of rainbow light surged out to form a rainbow light pir that pierced through the sky.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan descended, looked at theke, and eximed in surprise, ¡°This rainbow pir of light nkets this entire vastke. It''s no wonder it''s visible throughout the entire realm. Truly spectacr."

    ¡°I wonder what treasure lies beneath, resulting in such a remarkable disy.¡±

    The rainbow light pir was several miles wide, its height immeasurable. It pierced through the sky of the mysterious realm, going deep into the void.

    It was unknown how far the light from the rainbow pir shone. It seemed the entire Nebulous Mysterious realm was under the shroud of this light.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish, swish, swish...</i>

    In an instant, endless wind-breaking noises rang out.

    Countless figures rushed from all directions, rapidly approaching and growingrger against the backdrop of the sky. The air crackled as they descended fiercely, stirring up gusts of wind.

    ¡°Haha, a supreme treasure. It¡¯s a supreme treasure. Such a majestic phenomenon. The treasure under thiske must be incredibly precious.¡±

    ¡°Great, we¡¯re the first to arrive. Let¡¯s go down. We must get the treasure before the others get here.¡±

    d in sect uniforms, several people dove fearlessly from the skies, plunging straight into the rainbow pir of light.

    However, what happened next was frightening.

    The pir instantly consumed those disciples, merging seamlessly with it, unable to utter a sound. Those trailing behind halted abruptly, feeling a cold sweat trickle down their spines, then hastily retreated, their faces contorted in horror.

    ¡°What energy is this? It can disintegrate people!¡±

    ¡°This is a light of destruction. It can destroy everything," proimed someone loudly, his voice quivering.

    Chen Fan also jumped in fright, relieved that he hadn''t sumbed to greed and acted rashly despite arriving early. Otherwise, he would have ended up like those people.

    <i>Light of destruction?</i> Chen Fan frowned, fear still lingering in his heart.

    <i>What exactly is that supreme treasure underneath? It gives off such a terrifying energy.</i>

    At this moment, no one dared to act thoughtlessly. They stared at thiske, their eyes flickering rapidly.

    Before long, the gathering at thekeside swelled to hundreds, and the crowd continued to grow rapidly.

    Suddenly, a boomingughter resonated.

    ¡°Hahahaha, it¡¯s actually the light of destruction. Good, the Nebulous Battle Pce is opening indeed," dered a burly man, standing at a towering height of two meters and thirty centimeters. His aura exuded immense power.

    ¡°It¡¯s Hong Qianjun, ranked eleventh on the Yuanfu Influential Figures Leaderboard. Although he is at the peak of the ninth level, he¡¯s strong enough to fight Illusory Core realm experts. Rumor has it he''s even capable of breaking into the top ten," murmured someone in the crowd.

    Another voice rang out.

    ¡°You came quickly, Hong Qianjun," remarked a white-clothed youth as he descended, clutching an iron fan. Hisplexion was fair as white jade, his appearance handsome. He seemed like a schr.

    Hong Qianjun''s eyes widened as he red at the neer, his voice rough and low as he said, ¡°Luo Hanshan, you¡¯re not tardy, either.¡±

    The schrly-looking youth, Luo Hanshan, smiled. ¡°If I had arrived anyter, I might have missed out on the action entirely."

    Hong Qianjun said, ¡°Then why not charge in now?¡±

    Luo Hanshan, well aware of the destructive power of the light, chuckled. ¡°Hoho, no rush. Right now, I''m more interested in challenging you and perhaps taking your position."

    ¡°Thene give it a try.¡± Hong Qianjun stared fiercely. An even more formidable aura rushed out from him.

    ¡°Heavens, Luo Hanshan, ranked twelfth on the Influential Figures Leaderboard. He is simrly at the peak of the ninth level. Will they fight?¡±

    ¡°A good show ising right up then.¡±

    Hong Qianjun and Luo Hanshan were famous figures in the Wuning Empire.

    ¡°Haha, looks like I¡¯m notte to the party. Nebulous Battle Pce... My trip here won¡¯t be a waste after all.¡±

    Naturally, Hong Qianjun and Luo Hanshan didn¡¯t make a move. They were both well aware that now wasn¡¯t the time to fight since more and more experts were gathering here.

    ¡°It¡¯s Jiu Wuxue, ranked eighth on the Influential Figures Leaderboard. He is in the Illusory Core realm. Known as the Bloodless de, his de technique is the same as his title. He kills without spilling blood, decisive and ruthless.¡±

    ¡°Finally, a monster in the top ten of the Influential Figures Leaderboard is here.¡±

    Chen Fan looked over and saw a youth with a paleplexion flying over. He wore blood-colored clothing with golden trim and had a slender figure. He carried a hint of evil and murderous qi within his air of nobility; his aura felt unusually dangerous. Despite what his demeanor might indicate, Chen Fan was sure he wasn¡¯t a blood demon.

    ¡°This person is scary. He¡¯s much stronger than Qiu Beihai.¡±

    Chen Fan''s keen perception helped him see that Jiu Wuxue¡¯s cultivation was unfathomably deep. This observation was corroborated by their respective rankings on the Influential Figures Leaderboard; one held the tenth position, while the other imed the eighth.

    Suddenly, the sound of rolling waves reverberated through space.

    <i>Whoosh.</i>

    The crowd''s attention shifted to a spot not far off, where the air churned like turbulent waters. A youth stood on the churning air currents, swiftly advancing along with them.

    ¡°Look, that¡¯s Jin Tao! He is ninth on the leaderboard!¡±

    "And there''s Yuan Jun, fifteenth on the leaderboard."

    ¡°The Raging Inferno Pce¡¯s disciples are here, led by Lie Changming, ranked thirteenth.¡±

    ¡°The Blood Echeveria Sect¡¯s disciples are over there. The person at the front is Feng Tianxiao, ranked fourteenth on the leaderboard.¡±

    ¡°The Northern Snow Mountain Manor...¡±

    In the blink of an eye, numerous figures appeared from all directions, flying toward theke like locusts. Their cultivations surged, each exuding a fierce and powerful aura.

    Over the past month or so, everyone had encountered various opportunities, resulting in a significant increase in their strengths.

    Some of these individuals roamed solo, boasting formidablebat prowess, earning high rankings on the Influential Figures Leaderboard. Others traveled alongside their fellow sect disciples; theirbined aura was quite intimidating.

    The crowd erupted into another flurry of excitement as violet qi surged in from the east, carrying with it a faint, purple figure.

    ¡°Violet qi from the east, it is violet qi from the east. That¡¯s Zi Ling, ranked fifth on the Influential Figures Leaderboard.¡± [1]

    Amidst the crowd, Chen Fan''s cultivation level remained inconspicuous.

    Among those present, those at the seventh level were the lowest, with the majority at the eighth level. Only those at the ninth level were qualified to be taken seriously.

    Meanwhile, those within the top ten of the Influential Figures Leaderboard were all in the Illusory Core realm, which stirred a buzz of anticipation among the onlookers.

    Shortly after Zi Ling arrived, the swords of some swordsmen in the crowd began to tremble as if eager to be unsheathed.

    <i>ng, ng!</i>

    The atmosphere suddenly became somber and fierce. An extremely sharp streak of sword qi tore through space from afar, shrouding the area.

    The crowd saw a figure standing atop a sword, slicing through the air with fierce intent. He radiated a fierce sword intent, rising into the sky, stirring all directions.

    ¡°Traversing on a sword... Heavens, Xin Wuming is also here. He¡¯s ranked third on the Influential Figures Leaderboard. A true monster! Rumor has it his illusory core is already seventy to eighty percentplete."

    Everyone felt like the air had turned into sword qi, pricking at their skin.

    1. In 220, when Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya set up a fight, one of the characters mentioned, Reverend Zishan, from Violet Daoist Temple, had simr traits. Might be rted. ?

 Chapter 335 - Repelled with a Single Spear

    <h4>Chapter 335 - Repelled with a Single Spear</h4>

    Xin Wuming came riding his sword, drawing the attention of everyone, including Chen Fan.

    He had a slender figure, bordering on thinness, dressed in grayish-white attire. While not conventionally handsome, his sharp eyebrows and piercing gaze added a distinct aura to his otherwise ordinary appearance.

    Back when Chen Fan had just entered the ruined ancient city, he heard people yelling Xin Wuming¡¯s name and also saw him killing those people. However, he didn¡¯t see the man himself.

    Chen Fan was seeing Xin Wuming for the first time.

    Xin Wuming was ranked third on the Influential Figures Leaderboard, was known as the Sword Demon, and had killed countless people. [1]

    His moniker not only highlighted his exceptional swordsmanship but also hinted at his ruthless nature.

    Under the crowd¡¯s watchful gaze, he descended, looked at Zi Ling, and greeted, ¡°Long time no see, Zi Ling.¡±

    Among the individuals here, only Zi Ling warranted his acknowledgment. Others, including Jiu Wuxue and Jin Tao, both within the top ten of the Influential Figures Leaderboard, weren¡¯t qualified to get his attention. Their rankings, eighth and ninth, paled inparison to the top five.

    Since Xin Wuming ignored them, the others in the crowd never even had a chance.

    ¡°Long time no see,¡± Zi Ling greeted calmly, nodding slightly.

    Xin Wuming didn¡¯t say much. He directed his stern gaze toward theke and that light of destruction.

    After a brief scrutiny, he remarked, ¡°Looking at this situation, it should take another half an hour before the light of destruction dissipates. That''s when we can enter the Nebulous Battle Pce."

    He promptly settled into a cross-legged position and closed his eyes in meditation.

    His actions dumbfounded the crowd, but no one dared to speak. After all, no one wanted to disturb the Sword Demon.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan had already shifted his focus away from Xin Wuming. He had formed his estimate of Xin Wuming''s strength.

    Xin Wuming was on par with Xue Tianhe. Seventy to eighty percent of his illusory core had solidified, so he was just a step away from reaching the Core Formation realm.

    However, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t tell who would win between Xin Wuming and Xue Tianhe.

    Chen Fan also sat down cross-legged on the ground and pondered.

    <i>Will Xue Tianhee? The phenomenon is conspicuous and visible throughout the entire mysterious realm. </i>

    A sharp light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    <i>No, Xue Tianhe probably wouldn¡¯t dare to show himself. He¡¯s a blood demon, after all. Exposing himself would mark him as a public enemy. Even if he had three heads and six arms, he would die if everyone here attacked him together. </i>

    Meanwhile, a dozen blood-red figures stood on a mountaintop roughly five miles away, their gaze fixed on the rainbowke.

    Being their leader, Xue Tianhe was among the group, standing at the front.

    A blood demon at the peak of the ninth level looked at the rainbow pir and licked his lips as a fiery look shed across his eyes. He looked at Xue Tianhe and asked, ¡°Xue Tianhe, are we really not going to get involved?¡±

    Xue Tianhe said inly, ¡°I won¡¯t stop you guys if you want to head to your deaths; do as you please. The Nebulous Divine Pce is our holy cult¡¯s nemesis. The Nebulous Battle Pce is the core of the mysterious realm. The battle pce¡¯s power will kill us before we can even obtain any treasures. You can go if you think you can withstand the battle pce¡¯s power.¡±

    A sh of indignation crossed the face of the ninth-level blood demon. He didn¡¯t argue, as he knew that Xue Tianhe was just stating a fact.

    Ignoring them, Xue Tianhe''s gaze remained fixed ahead. His nose twitched slightly, and a stern look shed across his eyes. He mumbled, ¡°That guy managed to escape, as I thought. I can already smell his vitality...¡±

    He had already picked up the scent of Chen Fan¡¯s vitality. Xue Tianhe narrowed his eyes, aware that he couldn¡¯t do anything to Chen Fan for now.

    Too many onlookers surrounded theke. Even a tiger would struggle against such a pack of wolves.

    The dozen or so people behind Xue Tianhe were still whispering among themselves.

    Xue Tianhe said, ¡°No need to feel dejected. We¡¯ll head over after they enter the battle pce. The Nebulous Battle Pce serves as a trial ground; most won''t ovee its challenges. Once these weaker people are out, it will be our turn to feast.

    ¡°This time, I will feed to my heart''s content, fully condensing my blood core and advancing into the Core Formation realm. By then, even if Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, and their ilk unite, they will serve as nothing more than my blood sustenance.¡±

    A dangerous light shot out from Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll do as you say. We¡¯ll bury all these people in the mysterious realm and end the younger generation of the Wuning Empire.¡±

    The dozen or so individuals'' eyes sparkled with anticipation, and they erupted into apuse and cheers.

    ......

    People were still rushing over from all directions, kicking off dust clouds.

    Soon, theke''s surroundings were covered with heads, numbering close to a thousand people.

    Surveying his surroundings, Chen Fan couldn''t help butment inwardly. Only about a thousand of the four to five thousand who had entered the Nebulous Mysterious Realm survived. This kind of mortality rate was too horrifying.

    Yet, it was an inevitable oue. This was a trial ground, where death was an anticipated oue¡ªeither at the hands of others snatching their treasures or at the ws of ancient demon beasts lurking within.

    Suddenly, a sound resembling a thunderp rang out.

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    The crowd looked over and recognized the neer.

    ¡°Oh, Qiu Beihai is here.¡±

    Qiu Beihai waste because he had been very far from here.

    As soon as he arrived, he sighed in relief when he saw that the crowd was still there. He scanned the area and spotted Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, and the others; his gaze became slightly more serious.

    He was also a monstrous genius in the top ten of the leaderboard, but there was still a notable gap in strength between him and the top five. This discrepancy was especially pronounced between the top and bottom halves of the top ten.

    Among the top ten rankers of the leaderboard, the mysterious realm had Xin Wuming and Zi Ling from the top five. As for the bottom five, the sixth and seventh rankers weren¡¯t here, while the other three were present.

    Suddenly, Qiu Beihai¡¯s gaze settled on Chen Fan.

    Immediately, his aura surged to the sky, rolling with killing intent. He roared angrily, ¡°Bastard, let¡¯s see where you¡¯ll run to this time!¡±

    Chen Fan had also seen Qiu Beihai. However, his expression remained unchanged, and he said indifferently, ¡°Run? I fought you to a draw when I was at the seventh level. Do you think you¡¯re still a match for me now that I am at the eighth level? Oh, right, you¡¯re in the Illusory Core realm, after all. You can ignite your illusory core, but the question is, do you dare to?¡±

    Chen Fan''s face twisted with derision.

    ¡°Hmph, cut the crap. So what if you¡¯ve broken through to the eighth level? Die! Cleaving Through Heaven!¡±

    With a forceful kick, he lunged at Chen Fan, his aura pulsating, sending shockwaves through the surroundings. A blood-colored saber light pierced through the heavens and chopped down violently at Chen Fan.

    A glint of resolve shed in Chen Fan''s eyes as an iron spear materialized in his hand. He thrust it toward the formidable blood-colored saber light.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An intense explosion rang out. The blood-colored light shot out crazily, dying the surrounding space crimson.

    After that singr exchange, Qiu Beihai fell back repeatedly, leaving behind a trail of deep footprints.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    On the contrary, Chen Fan stood straight on the spot with his spear, exuding an aura reaching for the heavens.

    ¡°How is it?¡± Chen Fan asked proudly, looking at Qiu Beihai.

    1. Mentioned in 316, but he was called murderous demon there. Let¡¯s just go with Sword Demon. ?

 Chapter 336 - Ancient Piranha

    <h4>Chapter 336 - Ancient Piranha</h4>

    ¡°How is it?¡±

    Chen Fan stood straight and proud, his aura reaching the skies.

    Qiu Beihai''s expression soured visibly, his inner shock palpable.

    How long has it been?

    It had only been ten days or so, but Chen Fan¡¯s strength nearly doubled.

    Chen Fan had been strong during their battle at the bizarre mountain, fighting him to a draw. However, Qiu Beihai was confident about his eventual victory.

    However, Chen Fan used a single spear strike to neutralize the attack he had unleashed using an earth tier martial skill. The sheer force behind it felt like a volcanic eruption, forcing Qiu Beihai to retreat.

    Not only had he failed to gain an advantage, but he also found himself at a disadvantage.

    ¡°In your current state, you''re no match for me unless you ignite your illusory core.¡± Chen Fan looked at Qiu Beihai indifferently and said, ¡°But the question is, do you dare to? With the Nebulous Battle Pce opening soon, I prefer to avoid unnecessary conflicts. It would be wise for you to do the same. Otherwise, I¡¯ll kill you even if I must forgo entering the Nebulous Battle Pce!¡±

    His words echoed with icy rity, stunning the onlookers.

    Qiu Beihai was a famous genius of the Wuning Empire, ranked tenth on the leaderboard. Above all, he was an Illusory Core realm expert.

    However, a mere eighth-level Yuanfu realm martial artist had openly threatened him. It was a mind-boggling and incredulous situation.

    Not just the crowd but even Hong Qianjun, Jiu Wuxue, Jin Tao, Zi Ling, and others couldn''t help but fix their gazes on Chen Fan, their eyes flickering with confusion.

    Xin Wuming had also opened his eyes at some point, a sharp glint of surprise shing in them. He wondered when a monster like Chen Fan appeared in the Wuning Empire.

    He could sense the dangering from Chen Fan, but he didn¡¯t feel threatened. What truly intrigued him was Chen Fan''s cultivation level. Despite being only at the eighth level, Chen Fan was much stronger.

    Meanwhile, the crowd had erupted into fervent discussion, mouths agape in astonishment.

    ¡°There isn¡¯t anyone like him in our Wuning Empire. He isn¡¯t a native of the empire.¡± Xin Wuming almost immediately deduced that Chen Fan didn¡¯t belong to the Wuning Empire.

    ¡°Heavens, did I see wrongly? Qiu Beihai was at a disadvantage and pushed back by a single spear strike.¡±

    "It must be an illusion. I must be hallucinating! How could this be possible? One is at the eighth level, while the other is an Illusory Core realm expert. Logically, Qiu Beihai''s saber should have cut him down.¡±

    ¡°An eighth-level Yuanfu realm martial artist with thebat strength of an Illusory Core realm expert?! No, wait. He is actually stronger than Qiu Beihai. What a monster.¡±

    ¡°A good show ising up. I wonder if Qiu Beihai will ignite his illusory core for more power.¡±

    ¡°Are you stupid! He wouldn''t dare do that. Why would he waste years of his cultivation?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    They looked at Chen Fan as if they were looking at a monster.

    Chen Fan¡¯s words have also caused Qiu Beihai¡¯splexion to turn green and white.

    This was a tant p in the face in front of countless people. It burned and stung.

    Since when did he, Qiu Beihai, ever suffer such humiliation?

    Shame!

    Iparable shame!

    Burning with fury, Qiu Beihai felt the urge to go all out. His illusory core spun rapidly as if he was ready to ignite it to fight Chen Fan to the death.

    Suddenly, a change urred with the rainbow pir of light.

    Shrinking rapidly, it condensed from several miles wide to merely a hundred meters, standing tall in theke''s center.

    ¡°The light of destruction has disappeared! Go, quickly enter!¡±

    Some people had run out of patience long ago and immediately rushed forth at the sight. They leaped into the air and plunged into theke like a rock with a ssh.

    Seeing as there wasn¡¯t any danger this time, hot blood rushed up the brains of the others, so they followed suit, diving into the water with excitement.

    In the midst of themotion, a chillingmand sliced through the air.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Xin Wuming waved his sword. A streak of sword light shot forward, immediately cutting down the crowd in front of him. Fresh blood sprayed everywhere on theke. Then, he entered theke.

    <i>Plop.</i>

    Qiu Beihai''s expression shifted several times as he weighed his options. Should he ignite his power and face Chen Fan or plunge into the water to vie for opportunities?

    A brief momentter, Qiu Beihai withdrew his killing intent. He shot a cold nce at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Brat, I¡¯ll let you live a little longer. But mark my words, you won''t survive the Nebulous Mysterious Realm."

    If he could advance into the Core Formation realm, he could do whatever he wanted to with Chen Fanter.

    Though Chen Fan could hold his own against an expert of the Illusory Core realm, he was nothing before Core Formation realm experts.

    Chen Fan smiled mockingly, not taking Qiu Beihai¡¯s threats to heart. He quickly jumped into theke with a plop, disappearing from sight.

    ......

    As soon as he entered the water, Chen Fan immediately felt the intense pressure constricting his protective primeval force.

    "This pressure is extraordinary. It''s at least a hundred times greater than ordinarykes.¡± The pressure was so much that his defenses groaned under the weight.

    However, Chen Fan quickly noticed something else: the water wasn¡¯t transparent; it had a hint of rainbow color. It was like a rainbow crystal fluid. Its density was far higher than water. It was no wonder that the pressure underwater was so enormous.

    As Chen Fan dove deeper and deeper into the water, the pressure acting on him grew exponentially.

    The enormous pressure came with an enormous opposing force. The deeper he went, the slower he progressed.

    Suddenly, bloody water gushed out from beneath him, signaling the onset of violence.

    ¡°Has the killing already begun below? We¡¯ve yet to enter the Nebulous Battle Pce, and they¡¯re already out of patience?¡±

    Chen Fan moved aside, avoiding the rising bloody water. He furrowed his brow, sensing something was amiss.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Suddenly, a miserable scream came from not far below. Then, he saw a silhouette struggling violently, followed by bright red blood bubbling up.

    ¡°That is...¡±

    Chen Fan had channeled his primeval force to his eyes since long ago. Although he could only see about thirty to forty meters ahead, that person was within range.

    He saw a strange fish biting through that person¡¯s protective primeval force.

    The strange fish was about ten feet long. Its mouth was bristled with saw-like teeth that gleamed with an icy sheen, striking fear into the hearts of those who saw them.

    This strange fish devoured that seventh-level Yuanfu realm martial artist in the blink of an eye, leaving only its skeleton behind. Then, its blood-red eyes flickered, and it swam fiercely toward Chen Fan.

    The strange fish was too fast, like a bolt of lightning. It instantly bit down on Chen Fan¡¯s protective primeval force.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s strength was much stronger than itsst target.

    This strange fish bit onto his protectiveyer of primeval force; the sh produced sparks with a banging noise. It was a testament to its formidable biting force.

    It also exined how it could devour someone at the seventh level so quickly. Its teeth were simply harder than steel.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. Channeling his cultivation, he punched the strange fish¡¯s belly. He punched through the fish, killing it instantly.

    Yet, the fish''s head remained firmly locked onto Chen Fan''s protective barrier, refusing to let go.

    Chen Fan plucked the strange fish off of him and looked closer. His eyes flickered. ¡°An ancient piranha. It has a ferocious temperament and isn¡¯t afraid of death. Its teeth could bite through steel tes and reduce a hill-sized cow into bones in the blink of an eye.¡±

 Chapter 337 - Lake Dyed Blood Red

    <h4>Chapter 337 - Lake Dyed Blood Red</h4>

    Chen Fan squinted slightly. He hadn¡¯t expected theke to be so dangerous, teeming with terrifying demon beasts like ancient piranhas.

    It was no surprise that the waters below churned with blood; those who had ventured down earlier must have fallen prey to the ancient piranhas, meeting a gruesome fate.

    ¡°The Nebulous Mysterious Realm hadn¡¯t appeared in the world for countless years. Who knows how many ancient piranhas are in thiske? If a Core Formation realm piranha king emerged, it would spell disaster. No one would stand a chance against it," Chen Fan muttered grimly, but he pressed on without faltering, descending deeper into the depths.

    He carefully continued, slowing his descent. Two factors made caution necessary: the uncertainty of the ancient piranhas'' numbers and the possibility of encountering a Core Formation realm piranha king.

    He spread his senses, and he would strike the moment his senses caught something nearby, whether it be an ancient piranha or another threat.

    Chen Fan focused his qi to his eyes to the best of his abilities, extending his sight to see further.

    These ancient piranhas had adapted to their environment, resembling swift shuttles effortlessly slicing through the water with minimal resistance, their speed akin to lightning.

    With a single flick of their tails, the ancient piranhas could cover thirty to forty meters. They were as fast as light or electricity.

    So, Chen Fan had to focus on extending his vision. He could now see sixty to seventy meters away.

    He looked down, and the area below was in chaos.

    Countless ancient piranhas were crazily attacking the groups below. The crushing noises from their bites sent shivers down the people¡¯s spines.

    When the piranhas attacked the weaker martial artists, their protective primeval force provided as much resistance as wet paper; despite being muffled by the water, their miserable screams still went far. The frenzied piranhas, fueled by the scent of fresh blood, relentlessly tore into flesh and sinew, creating a harrowing spectacle.

    The once-clear rainbowke water gradually turned red as many people met their miserable ends. It was ake of crimson now with the unmistakable stench of blood everywhere.

    As if he had eyes at the back of his head, Chen Fan suddenly stabbed out behind him, impaling an ancient piranha precisely.

    <i>Chi!</i>

    Theke was too big. The crowd had dived from different locations, but ancient piranhas were everywhere, attacking from all directions.

    Chen Fan stabbed with his iron spear repeatedly, parting the water currents. With every thrust, he would im the life of an ancient piranha.

    The lower he descended, the more ancient piranhas he came across. Their strengths also grew increasingly stronger.

    Some people tried to lure the cmity toward Chen Fan by swimming toward him, bringing a big group of savage and terrifying ancient piranhas behind them.

    Chen Fan stabbed out without hesitation, killing them all.

    Here, he did not needpassion, especially when the other party wanted to harm him.

    He couldn¡¯t afford to be soft.

    ¡°Thiske is really deep.¡±

    Chen Fan continued downwards.

    Relying on his overwhelming strength, Chen Fan killed each ancient piranha with a single, decisive blow, quickly beating the others locked in fiercebat with the relentless predators.

    Chen Fan noticed that to his left, the currents were quite fierce and carried intense cultivation fluctuations.

    ¡°Hong Qianjun and the others are ahead. Hmm, there are so many ancient piranhas surrounding and attacking them. Some of those piranhas are even in the Illusory Core realm.¡±

    Hong Qianjun and the others were in an intense battle with arge group of ancient piranhas.

    A massive hundred-foot-long ancient piranha stood out among the others. It was incredibly ferocious, like a huge beast; its teeth were three feet long. When it opened its mouth wide, it sent chills down people¡¯s spines.

    This hundred-foot-long ancient piranha was in the Illusory Core realm.

    Chen Fan looked to his right. Xin Wuming was moving very fast.

    ¡°That¡¯s Xin Wuming over here, heh, how strong of him. Everywhere his sword light passes through, no ancient piranha is left. Even Illusory Core realm ancient piranhas died in a single sword.¡±

    Streaks of sword light swept across theke, killing all the piranhas near Xin Wuming.

    Suddenly, theke waters fluctuated violently, like a huge undercurrent was sweeping toward Chen Fan.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan saw that within the undercurrent was another hundred-foot-long ancient piranha. It was grinding its steel-like teeth, shing with a cold glint, and rushing towards him.

    That wide-open mouth could swallow him whole.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes; an Illusory Core realm piranha was targeting him.

    ¡°Heh, an Illusory Core realm ancient piranha!¡±

    Even so, he wasn¡¯t afraid at all.

    He rubbed his palms together, and his primeval force stirred. With a spiraling force, the iron spear parted the water current at once and flew toward that terrifying ancient piranha.

    <i>ng!</i>

    That piranha¡¯s bite was extraordinary. It directly caught the iron spear, producing sparks in the water.

    ¡°It could block my devastating thrust? Such hard and sharp teeth. Amazing!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, and he pulled back his arm, withdrawing the still iron spear between the piranha¡¯s teeth.

    He knew his attacks only had eighty percent of his strength here because of the water resistance. Had he been onnd, that fish would have died.

    The water resistance weakened the force of his devastating thrust.

    ¡°Hmph.¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. He approached the ancient piranha and raised his arm, adding variations to his attacks. A poof rang out as he stabbed through the eye of the ancient piranha.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The ancient piranha was enraged.

    It whipped its tail at Chen Fan violently, setting off a monstrous wave that made Chen Fan lose his bnce, swept away by the water current.

    ¡°Steady for me!¡±

    Chen Fan unleashed his cultivation and stomped down. The churning water current calmed down. With another thrust of his spear, an immense force erupted and stabbed the ancient piranha.

    The ancient piranha let out a cry.

    ¡°Kiki!¡±

    Soon, another Illusory Core realm ancient piranha and a group of Yuanfu realm ancient piranhas swam over and surrounded Chen Fan.

    A short distance away, Qiu Beihai was also locked in battle with a group of ancient piranhas.

    ¡°Little bastard, it¡¯s best if you end up in the fish bellies.¡±

    However, he did not encounter any ancient piranhas in the Illusory Core realm, so it was very easy for him. Seeing Chen Fan surrounded by two Illusory Core realms and a group of ordinary ancient piranhas, he revealed a savage smile.

    ¡°Damn it, calling for helpers now, huh? You think it¡¯ll work? Die!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly exerted his strength, rolling up a whirlpool and stabbing into an Illusory Core realm ancient piranha¡¯s head, killing it.

    <i>Crunch! Crunch! Crunch!</i>

    However, this did not scare away the other ancient piranhas. They continued biting at Chen Fan ferociously, wanting to gnaw at his flesh and reducing him into a skeleton.

 Chapter 338 - Sieging the Piranha King

    <h4>Chapter 338 - Sieging the Piranha King</h4>

    ¡°Die! Die! Die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s movements in the water disyed remarkable variation, with his arm continuously thrusting and maneuvering the spear.

    Each thrust could kill someone at the ninth level, and each thrust disrupted the flow of water, producing thunderous rumbles.

    The blood of theirrades only made the other ancient piranhas more ferocious. They kept rushing at Chen Fan like arrows.

    However, Chen Fan wielded the iron spear skillfully, creating an airtight defense around him. He killed a piranha with each stab.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    As the fight continued, all the ancient piranhas that joinedter, including that one in the Illusory Core realm, fell under Chen Fan¡¯s spear.

    After putting away their demon cores, he dove deeper into the water like a fish.

    A short distance away, Qiu Beihai had witnessed Chen Fan¡¯s fight; he was speechless.

    ¡°Damn it, this little bastard is so strong. Even Illusory Core realm ancient piranhas are no match for him...¡± Even he would have trouble dealing with those piranhas in the Illusory Core realm.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Like a fish, Chen Fan darted through the water currents, diving even deeper and killing all the ancient piranhas he encountered.

    Along the way, Chen Fan was like a killing god, ying all demons and evil. Everywhere he went, none of the ancient piranhas could escape from his iron spear.

    ¡°Good, the energy within these ancient piranhas'' demon cores is much stronger than that from the demon beasts outside," Chen Fan remarked, pleased as tens of demon cores found their way into his storage ring.

    Three thousand meters into the water, Chen Fan found himself near theke''s bottom.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, violent tremors shook the surroundings, causing whirlpools to form in the undercurrents.

    Ahead, faint, colorful lights flickered. Some lights were iparably sharp, some were thick and heavy as mountains, and some froze the water currents. It was hair-raising.

    Chen Fan could already see the situation at the bottom of theke.

    ¡°That is...¡±

    At the bottom of theke was a majestic pce. Its construction material resembled a blend of gold and jade. The pce exuded a grand and enigmatic aura, radiating a rainbow-like immortal glow. It was as if Chen Fan hade to the dragon pce at the bottom of the sea.

    Surrounding the pcey a vast white marble za where Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, and the other geniuses of the leaderboard were present. Everyone¡¯s cultivation erupted, shaking heaven and earth.

    However, what caught Chen Fan''s attention was the nearly two-hundred-foot-long ancient piranha on the za, exuding a terrifying aura. His pupils constricted at the sight, a chill creeping down his spine.

    ¡°That is... a Core Formation realm piranha king?¡±

    A demon beast at the Core Formation realm was guarding the battle pce.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s still in the Illusory Core realm, but it¡¯s very close to the Core Formation realm. It is like a martial artist with a ny percent solid core.¡±

    Chen Fan somewhat understood the situation.

    This piranha king wasn¡¯t truly in the Core Formation realm but was still extraordinarily strong. It was so powerful that it was terrifying.

    Aquatic demon beasts held a significant advantage at theke''s bottom, while human martial artists were considerably weakened. Xin Wuming and the other geniuses fought together but couldn¡¯t gain the slightest advantage over it.

    The piranha king struck Jiu Wuxue, sending him flying with blood spewing out of his mouth. When he saw Chen Fan, he shouted, "Why are you just standing there?! Join the fight!"

    Now that they were at the entrance of the Nebulous Battle Pce, they couldn¡¯t get in unless they killed the piranha king guarding it.

    This piranha king was the final test the crowd had to ovee before they could take on the trial of the Nebulous Battle Pce.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Hong Qianjun, Yuan Jun, Luo Hanshan, and the others also arrived. They also looked shocked when they saw the piranha king.

    ¡°Hong Qianjun, you guys are here at the perfect time. Join us in defeating this piranha king. And you, don''t just stand there. Fight with us, or forget about entering the Nebulous Battle Pce!"

    Sword light containing terrifying force shot out from Xin Wuming¡¯s sword in all directions, splitting the water currents and falling on the ancient piranha. Sounds of metal colliding rang out, and sparks flew everywhere.

    ¡°Attack!¡±

    Hong Qianjun and the others didn¡¯t hold back. They knew they needed to get rid of the piranha king first to enter the Nebulous Battle Pce.

    Now, everyone had to work together. The piranha king was simply too strong. Facing the piranha king alone was no different from throwing an egg at a stone.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan went into motion without a word, his iron spear gleaming with a cold light as he aimed for the piranha king''s eye.

    <i>ng!</i>

    However, his strike proved futile as the piranha king just shut its eyes. Its eyelids were steel walls, deflecting Chen Fan''s attack with a terrifying force that left his arms numb.

    Meanwhile, a mass of violet qi swirled around Zi Ling, morphing into various weapons that she unleashed with formidable power.

    ¡°Attack the piranha king¡¯s belly. There are fewer scales here. It¡¯s the weak spot!¡±

    ¡°Myriad Mountain Destroying Punch!¡±

    ¡°Infinite Thunderp!¡±

    ¡°Violet Qi Brilliant Sky!¡±

    ¡°Bloody Three Thousand sh!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, and the others executed big moves one after another. Their cultivation revolved fiercely as shes of light swept across the white marble za.

    The overflowing de qi and sword qi left cuts of various depths on the white marble za.

    However, the piranha king was powerful.

    Yet, despite their relentless assault, the piranha king remained unscathed, its scales deflecting their blows with resounding ngs and sparking off showers of sparks.

    ¡°Damn it. The piranha king''s strength is overwhelming, especially underwater, where our attacks are weakened. We can¡¯t hurt the piranha king at all.¡±

    ¡°We have too few people. Let¡¯s drag this out and wait for more people toe. If everyone works together, it shouldn¡¯t be a problem for us to kill the piranha king. After all, the piranha king is not truly in the Core Formation realm.¡±

    Xin Wuming, Jiu Wuxue, and the others spoke up one after another.

    If they had been onnd with these many leaderboard experts, killing the piranha king would not have been a problem.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Determined to buy time, Chen Fan and the group continued their skirmish with the piranha king, awaiting additional support.

    Soon, some stronger eighth and ninth-level Yuanfu realm martial artists broke through the attacks of the piranhas above and arrived at the bottom of theke.

    When Jiu Wuxue saw that many people had sessfully made it down here, he shouted, ¡°Good,e here, all of you. Let¡¯s attack the piranha king together. No one can enter the Nebulous Battle Pce if we don¡¯t kill it!¡±

    These people exchanged nces and nodded. Theynded on the white marble za. Ignoring their injuries, they revolved their cultivation and joined forces to attack the piranha king.

 Chapter 339 - Entering the Battle Palace

    <h4>Chapter 339 - Entering the Battle Pce</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The crowd channeled their cultivation, shocking heaven and earth and violently stirring the water currents.

    <i>Creak, creak, creak.</i>

    Confronted with the onught, the piranha king only grew more vicious. It sped left and right, generating huge waves that crashed into the crowd and threw the weaker ones off-bnce.

    The piranha king seized the moment; like lightning, it opened its mouth wide to bite them. Miserable screams rang out as some people fell victim to the piranha king, torn asunder.

    It was a tragic sight.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± The piranha king¡¯ssh threw back Chen Fan.

    ¡°Good chance!¡± Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes flickered. His expression turned savage, and he parted the water with a swoosh, fiercely shing down at Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    He had wanted to kill Chen Fan for a long time, so he was just making the best use of this opportunity, his aura ferocious and his primeval force surging.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    The saber light pierced through the currents, igniting mes that burned fiercely even beneath the water''s surface.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± said Chen Fan. He was prepared for this. Like apressed spring being released, he quickly turned around, and his terrifying strength erupted.

    <i>Dong chi!</i>

    He thrust his iron spear through the water currents to deal with the saber.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The saber and the spear collided. Qiu Beihai¡¯s saber light broke, and he flew back from the impact.

    ¡°Qiu Beihai, if you wish to court death, I¡¯ll grant your wish!" Chen Fan said, his gaze piercing and cold as he swiftly pursued.

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s pupils shrank when he sensed that Chen Fan¡¯s aura was filled with killing intent; he felt like the grim reaper was looking at him.

    ¡°You damned little bastard! I¡¯ll kill you today, even if I have to ignite my illusory core!¡±

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes were bloodshot, a dangerous aura radiating from him that stirred the already restless water around him.

    Suddenly, Xin Wuming¡¯smanding voice cut through the tension. ¡°Enough! Our priority is dealing with the piranha king. You can settle your vendettas after.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The most important thing right now is to eliminate the piranha king and open the entrance to the Nebulous Battle Pce. Put the other matters aside for now.¡± Zi Ling chimed in.

    Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°I didn¡¯t start this fight. Someone else just seems far too keen on inviting death."

    ¡°You...¡± Qiu Beihai nearly vomited blood in anger.

    Xin Wuming said coldly, ¡°Enough from you, Qiu Beihai! I¡¯ll say this onest time. Get rid of the piranha king first. Do whatever you want afterward. If you cause any more trouble, I¡¯ll kill you first, even if he doesn¡¯t make a move!¡±

    Everyone had seen Qiu Beihai trying to murder Chen Fan while thetter was reeling from the piranha¡¯s attack.

    Chen Fan¡¯s life was of little concern to them. However, they had to get rid of the piranha king first, and he was strong as an Illusory Core realm expert. He was one of the main forces in sieging the piranha king.

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s underhanded method tested the crowd''s tolerance to the limit.

    ¡°I hope this is thest time as well. Otherwise, you¡¯ll die even if you ignite your illusory core!¡± Chen Fan said icily, his eyes flickering with a cold glint.

    Qiu Beihai¡¯s expression was ugly, but he didn¡¯t do anything. After all, Xin Wuming and the others wouldn¡¯t spare him if he continued to y tricks.

    ......

    <i>Kikiki...</i>

    The piranha king truly lived up to being an ancient demon beast. It held its ground against the relentless assault of the gathered martial artists.

    From time to time, a couple of the weaker martial artists would either be swallowed whole or be struck by its tail. The tail would split them apart, bloodying the waters.

    However, more people had arrived at the bottom of theke. Over a hundred people were besieging it now; it was already a cornered beast.

    As time wore on, the piranha king''s once imprable scales cracked, revealing vulnerable flesh beneath.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Terrifying attacks fell on the piranha king one after another. Each blow drew fresh blood, and the piranha king''s mournful cries echoed, calling for its descendants.

    Unfortunately, those descendants were all dead. Its cries were for naught.

    About a quarter or an hourter, the piranha king cried mournfully. Its enormous body crashed heavily onto the za, breathing itsst breath. It didn¡¯t even have a chance to escape.

    ¡°Haha, the piranha king is finally in!¡±

    ¡°The Nebulous Battle Pce is open. Quickly enter!¡±

    ¡°Charge! The treasures are all mine! No one can steal from me!¡±

    ¡°Mmm, such rich primeval qi of heaven and earth. I feel like my bottleneck is loosening up.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Nebulous Battle Pce opened after the piranha king¡¯s death. The crowd¡¯s eyes turned red hot, their expressions bordering on madness.

    Why did they risk their deaths?

    To advance in their cultivation, to attain greater strength!

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Xin Wuming and the other rankers of the Influential Figures Leaderboard were the fastest, darting into the pce with lightning speed.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan also entered the pce and appeared in a pure white space.

    <i>Hooo!</i>

    Taking a deep breath, he eximed in surprise, ¡°Such rich and pure primeval qi of heaven and earth. It¡¯s countless times better than primeval stones, and I can refine them almost effortlessly. This is definitely a preciousnd for cultivating.¡±

    The white light in the pce was a little too intense. Once they entered, the crowd was immediately blinded, unable to see nor sense the area. Even Chen Fan¡¯s sharp senses were useless here. Only the sense of touch and hearing remained.

    About half an incense¡¯s timeter, the floor suddenly started trembling as if shaken by an earthquake.

    Noises resembling mechanisms operating rang out endlessly, rising and falling.

    <i>Kaka, kakaka...</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan felt the floor beneath his feet sinking in and vaguely sensed something had sealed this space.

    When the trembling stopped, Chen Fan could finally see his surroundings.

    He found himself in a huge white light dome. He looked around but saw no one; he also couldn¡¯t see the situation outside the light dome.

    ¡°This...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, feeling bewildered and unsettled.

    He did not know much about the Nebulous Battle Pce, leaving him disoriented by the unfolding events.

    ¡°I wonder what kind of test it will be?¡±

    Although he didn¡¯t know much about the Nebulous Battle Pce, he managed to glean some useful insights from overhearing Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, and others earlier.

    The Nebulous Battle Pce was the core area of the mysterious realm. The trial participants had to clear nine stages in total.

    With a low groan, Chen Fan punched the white light dome to test the waters. The force fell on the white light dome and immediately dispersed, failing to shake the dome in the slightest.

    ¡°Hiss, it¡¯s so sturdy!¡± Chen Fan was a little surprised.

    Although he did not punch with all his strength, it was enough to heavily injure someone at the eighth level. However, his probing punch didn¡¯t even set off a ripple.

    A white light suddenly burst in front of him. It was incredibly dazzling, forcing Chen Fan to use his hands to shield himself.

    The light twisted and mixed; soon, it condensed and formed a white light silhouette.

 Chapter 340 - Clear Stage, Reward

    <h4>Chapter 340 - Clear Stage, Reward</h4>

    On top of a mountain, Xue Tianhe gazed toward the distantke.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. It¡¯s time for us to go over and wait for our prey to fall into ourps.¡±

    Everyone had jumped into theke, so hardly anyone was on the shore.

    ¡°Haha, good, I can¡¯t wait any longer.¡±

    The dozen or so blood demonsughed malevolently.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The dozen or so blood demons soared through the air like birds, covering the five-mile distance in no time.

    They saw bubbling on theke¡¯s surface as soon as they descended.

    A figure shot out from the waters with a ssh, their face filled with horror.

    ¡°Hmm? Someone came out so quickly?¡±

    Xue Tianhe and the others narrowed their eyes, puzzled by the sight. Extending his hand, Xue Tianhe swiftly grabbed at the air.

    ¡°Come here!¡±

    Arge, blood-colored hand swept out, snatching the person by the neck as if they were a helpless chick.

    That person was only at the seventh level. When they saw the ancient piranhas biting through so many martial artists¡ªleaving behind only bones¡ªthey had been scared out of their wits. So, they turned around and fled for their life.

    They had never expected that they would be caught as soon as they left theke. They didn¡¯t even get the time to get their bearings or sigh in relief.

    ¡°Who... who are you people?¡±

    He couldn¡¯t breathe properly as Xue Tianhe was strangling him; his face was flushed red. He revolved his cultivation to break free from his grasp, but it was useless.

    ¡°Who am I? What do you think?¡± Xue Tianheughed evilly and opened his mouth, revealing two sharp, bloody fangs.

    The seventh-level martial artists instantly screamed, ¡°Blood demons! You¡¯re blood demons!¡±

    Xue Tianhe smiled and said, ¡°Congrattions! You are right, and you get death!¡±

    Desperate, the captive begged for mercy, offering anything and everything to them. ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me! I¡¯m willing to be your ve. I¡¯m willing to join you and be a noble blood demon like you...¡±

    ¡°Haha, you? Are you worthy?¡± Xue Tianhe smiled coldly and said, ¡°You¡¯re only worthy of being our next meal, understand? Stop struggling. Any attempt at resisting when you¡¯re in my hands is useless.¡±

    Xue Tianhe bit into that person¡¯s neck.

    ¡°Ah...¡± A miserable scream resounded.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    Theke waters suddenly blew up. Several figures emerged from the waters, apanied by an ancient piranha leaping from the depths, its jaws snapping wildly.

    ¡°Haha, perfect timing. I¡¯m hungry as well!¡±

    The other dozen or so blood demons immediately revealed sinister smiles when they saw the neers. They pounced at them, sweeping up the martial artists before they could react to the situation. They bit down on their necks and sucked their blood madly.

    ......

    <i>Hum!</i>

    The air quivered slightly as a silhouette coalesced from the white light, gradually taking form.

    This white light silhouette was simr to Chen Fan. It wielded an iron spear and stood straight.

    Closer inspection revealed that while its facial features weren¡¯t clear, they were identical to his. It was simply a copy of Chen Fan.

    Yet, it was unmistakably a manifestation of energy, not flesh and blood.

    With swift precision, the white light silhouette lunged toward Chen Fan, the spear aimed at him.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°It¡¯s at the early stage of the eighth level!¡±

    Chen Fan sensed the white light silhouette¡¯s qi fluctuations. Its cultivation was almost equal to his. Its attacks were fierce and swift, and its concentrated force usage was shocking. Although it was a copy, its technique at attacking was above his.

    ¡°Impressive. If someone were to face a copy like this, they probably wouldn¡¯t win.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered as he stabbed the copy with his iron spear.

    The air exploded. It rolled backward and pressed toward the white light silhouette like a monstrous wave, halting its advance.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Although they had the same cultivation, Chen Fan¡¯sbat strength was par with that of Illusory Core realm martial artists. This copy only possessedbat strength equivalent to its cultivation. It was simply no match for him.

    The Nebulous Battle Pce''s replication was remarkable, but it failed to replicate Chen Fan''s formidable fighting prowess.

    One spear thrustter, the light silhouette shattered and transformed into a mass of iparably pure primeval qi that entered Chen Fan.

    ¡°Mmm, feels good!¡±

    The mass of primeval qi didn¡¯t even have a hint of impurity; Chen Fan did not even need to refine it. It directly spread through his skeleton and limbs.

    Immediately, Chen Fan sensed his cultivation had progressed remarkably, reaching the peak of the early stage, saving him ten days of bitter cultivation.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone as he muttered, ¡°Good, very good. This is just like martial infusion; the energy is extremely pure, allowing direct absorption..¡±

    Simultaneously, simr scenes unfolded in other white light chambers.

    ¡°Damn it, it¡¯s as strong as me, even replicating my martial skills, but itsbat technique surpasses mine. Heavens, how am I supposed to fight a superior version of myself?¡±

    ¡°Haha, good, great, marvelous! Only by facing myself can I uncover my weaknesses. The ancient Nebulous Divine Pce''s trial ground is truly extraordinary."

    ¡°Hehe, it¡¯s only slightly above me in cultivation level. This won¡¯t be a problem for me. I¡¯ll finish you off in a single move! sh! Wha... what pure energy. If I keep clearing stages, won¡¯t I be an Illusory Core realm expert in just three or four stages? Get one of the top ten positions on the leaderboard?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Some people¡¯s fights against their silhouette were fierce, with no clear victor emerging. Others managed to subdue the silhouette but struggled to secure a swift victory.

    Some people were surprised and caught off guard. They were defeated by the white light silhouette in a single move before they could react and were kicked out of the Nebulous Battle Pce, drowning in regret.

    Some people, like Xin Wuming or Zi Ling, defeated the white light silhouette in a single move. They received the infusion of qi, greatly increasing their cultivation, and entered the second stage.

    All those who entered the Nebulous Battle Pce were being tested now. Whether they seeded or failed depended on their strengths.

    ......

    After Chen Fan defeated the stage guardian and absorbed that mass of pure energy, Chen Fan found himself bathed in a beam of light. After a brief moment of dizziness, he appeared on the second stage.

    Once again enclosed within a white dome, Chen Fan looked at the white light ahead. Space contorted, conjuring two white light silhouettes.

    ¡°Middle-stage, eighth-level Yuanfu realm, and two of them!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s lips drew back into a faint smile.

    The stage guardians this time were two white light silhouettes, and their cultivation levels had also increased.

    The silhouettes nked Chen Fan as soon as they were fully formed. Their attacks were incredibly fierce, even matching each other¡¯s movements, seamlessly weaving their attacks together.

 Chapter 341 - Ninth Level Yuanfu

    <h4>Chapter 341 - Ninth Level Yuanfu</h4>

    Approximately three to four hundred people had entered the battle pce.

    However, the core area of the Nebulous Divine Pce had eliminated close to thirty percent of them with its first stage alone.

    These people converged at the white marble za, unwilling to leave just like that.

    Some people had reddened eyes, harboring a strong desire to enter the battle pce again. However, a destructive light descended when they tried to step inside again. They couldn¡¯t even scream before they disintegrated.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Witnessing this grim spectacle, those with simr intentions felt a shiver run down their spines. Legs trembling, they nearly copsed to the floor.

    ¡°How scary! Failing to pass the stage gets you kicked out of the battle pce, with no chance of re-entry.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t ept this. I was defeated in an instant upon entering the white light dome. I barely had time to react. I could have cleared the first stage.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the point of saying all this now? You failed, and that¡¯s that.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. Failing means we¡¯ve already lost our chance. You saw what happened to that person earlier. There¡¯s no point in staying here. It¡¯s better to leave and go find opportunities elsewhere.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Come on, let¡¯s leave together. There are still ancient piranhas above. If we don¡¯t go together, only death awaits us when they surround us.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go with you guys.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Soon, half of the nearly seventy to eighty ousted people gathered and left together.

    The remaining people still had indignant faces, unwilling to leave and praying for a miracle.

    ¡°Haha, I can kill and feast on others without worrying. This feels too good! My cultivation is also rising rapidly.¡±

    ¡°Many are returning now. These people didn¡¯t even manage to enter the Nebulous Battle Pce because of the ancient piranhas in theke.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer. The others should have entered the battle pce by now. I¡¯m sure some of them will fail ande out.¡±

    On the shore, the mouths of Xue Tianhe and the dozen or so blood demons were stained with blood. And around them were forty to fifty desated corpses.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The water surface suddenly broke, and arge group of people emerged from theke.

    ¡°More people havee out. Get them!¡±

    Xue Tianhe stepped forward, gathering the powers of his terrifying Illusory Core realm cultivation.

    Executing the Blood Sea Flips the Heaven, a sea of blood appeared in the air. It swept those people into the sea of blood and dragged them over.

    ¡°Ah, who are you people?¡±

    Someone in the crowd quickly came to their senses and said, ¡°Blood demons! They¡¯re blood demons!¡±

    ¡°Not good. They are all blood demons. Hurry, unleash your cultivation and attack them, or we all will die!¡±

    Realizing they had fallen into a life-or-death situation, every one of them unleashed their cultivation and tried to break the sea of blood apart and rush out.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you ants are thinking of resisting? With just you?¡± Xue Tianheughed out loud, unleashing a mighty surge of blood that dispersed the energy of those trapped within the crimson tide, leaving them dazed.

    ¡°Come here. Your fate was sealed the second you entered the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. You will die here and serve as stepping stones for my cultivation.¡±

    Xue Tianhe extended his arm out, reaching into the sea of blood, and grabbed onto an eighth-level Yuanfu realm martial artist. He bit into their neck, sucked their blood, and crushed their neck.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You are but one among many to meet this fate. It is an honor to nourish noble blood demons like us.¡±

    The other blood demons alsoughed savagely. Their vile cultivation techniques erupted, shrouding heaven and earth.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Bursts of qi fluctuation swept out; miserable screams rose and fell. Some tried to break free and escape, but it waspletely useless. They all became Xue Tianhe and the other blood demons¡¯ sustenance.

    ¡°What do we do? Blood demons are out there, with an Illusory Core realm blood demon among them. That blood demon¡¯s aura is even slightly stronger than Xin Wuming¡¯s. We¡¯re no match for them," someone muttered, their expression grave as they observed the unfolding chaos from theke.

    ¡°There are wolves ahead and tigers at our backs. Blood demons outside, ancient piranhas behind us...¡±

    ¡°Charge ahead! Don¡¯t hold back anything. Bring out all your strongest methods, or we all will end up dead.¡±

    ¡°Alright, move!¡±

    ......

    <i>Chi, chi!</i>

    Two silhouettes nked Chen Fan as fast as lightning and attacked with great coordination and ferocity.

    Such assault would pose a significant challenge even to someone at thete stage of the eighth level. Yet, before Chen Fan, it was merely child''s y.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Swinging his arm, Chen Fan swept out horizontally with his iron spear.

    Each sweep of the spear made the air explode, creating a cacophony of booming sounds and whipping up a fierce wind.

    <i>Bang, bang!</i>

    The two white light silhouettes could not resist his attack and blew up, transforming into two masses of pure energy and entering Chen Fan.

    <i>Hum!</i>

    A gust of wind surged from Chen Fan, stirring the air like water as his aura swelled, propelling him to the middle stage of the eighth level.

    Before he could savor the moment, the space shifted once more; now, more silhouettes were before him.

    The cultivation of the four silhouettes was even higher than that of Chen Fan. They were all in thete-stage, eighth-level Yuanfu realm, a small realm above Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation.

    The four white light silhouettes seemed to have practiced together countless times, charging at him instantly.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish, swish.</i>

    The duplicates thrust their spears, slicing through the air akin to dragons, igniting mes with each forceful stroke. It was like four dragons were rushing out, a heat wave spreading.

    ¡°Perfect timing!¡± Chen Fan shouted, not scared in the slightest.

    With a shake of his arm, Chen Fan¡¯s spear silhouette split, each executing a different attack.

    His single thrust split into four and shed against the four white light silhouettes.

    The terrifying force rushed into the four copies and exploded, blowing them up. Four explosions rang out in a row, their sequence indistinguishable.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang!</i>

    The fourth stage consisted of eight white light silhouettes, each in the early stage of the ninth level. Chen Fan wiped them out in three moves.

    After absorbing so much pure energy, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level experienced another breakthrough, reaching thete stage of the eighth level.

    The fifth stage had sixteen white light silhouettes, each at the middle stage of the ninth level. Chen Fan stabbed out sixteen times in a row, each thrust shaking the heavens and making even the sturdy white light dome tremble.

    In the sixth stage, there were only eight white light silhouettes. However, they weren¡¯t at thete stage of the ninth level, as one would expect, but they were at the peak of the ninth level. Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation had progressed significantly, he spent a lot of effort killing these eight silhouettes due to their seamless teamwork.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Sitting cross-legged in the white light dome, Chen Fan absorbedrge amounts of pure energy. The primeval force inside him was churning like a flood.

    His cultivation had already peaked, at the cusp of breaking through.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    With a roar, his aura surged like a flood breaking through the dike, sweeping the sun and the moon. It shook the white light dome so fiercely that banging noises rang out as if it would crack.

    Shortly afterward, Chen Fan stood up. He sensed the surging power inside him and smiled.

    ¡°Great, I¡¯ve broken through to the ninth level!¡±

 Chapter 342 - Guardian of the Seventh Stage

    <h4>Chapter 342 - Guardian of the Seventh Stage</h4>

    ¡°After clearing six stages and refining so much pure energy, I am finally at the ninth level. I saved myself nearly a year¡¯s worth of cultivation.¡±

    Chen Fan felt happy with his progress.

    ¡°The copies at the sixth level were at the peak of the ninth level. Are Illusory Core realm copies next?¡±

    A brilliant light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Now that his cultivation and strength had increased, he wouldn¡¯t feel scared even if he had to face Xue Tianhe. He could defeat Qiu Beihai even if he ignited his illusory core.

    ¡°Hopefully, the reward for the seventh stage will be something else. These energy masses can increase my cultivation rapidly but also make my foundation unstable. That¡¯s not good for my future cultivation.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered momentarily; a white light shrouded him next.

    ......

    People flew out of the battle pce from time to time, each looking discouraged and depressed.

    ¡°Damn it, this Nebulous Battle Pce¡¯s test is too difficult. I could manage the first stage as the copy only had a slightly betterbat technique. But how the heck am I supposed to clear the second stage? How am I supposed to fight two copies that are a small realm above me in cultivation?¡±

    ¡°Be content. Many couldn¡¯t even clear the first stage before they got kicked out.¡±

    ¡°You cleared the first stage, so what reward did you get?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, it¡¯s a mass of pure energy. It was so pure that I could absorb it without refining it. My cultivation had progressed significantly, but it¡¯s a pity I didn¡¯t clear the second stage.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how many stages Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, and the others have cleared? They are all in the Illusory Core realm, and their first opponents will be copies of themselves. Here, the difficulty will be harder the higher your initial cultivation level is.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. In the Illusory Core realm, even a five percent difference in the conversion rate can result in a significant gap in strength. In the Yuanfu realm, geniuses like Xin Wuming can challenge those with higher cultivation, but that¡¯s not easy in the Illusory Core realm.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd discussed among themselves at the white marble za.

    Xin Wuming had challenged the fifth stage and was fighting against eight copies of himself.

    Although these white light silhouettes¡¯ cultivation levels were the same as his, there were eight of them. Moreover, they fought with incredible teamwork, so he was beaten back repeatedly.

    ¡°Damn it, the Nebulous Battle Pce¡¯s test is too difficult.¡±

    Xin Wuming¡¯s expression was horrid, traces of blood hanging at the corners of his mouth.

    He was ranked third on the leaderboard and could fight many alone. He was so strong that other Illusory Core realm experts on the same level as him weren¡¯t his match, yet he felt flustered as he faced the bombardment from the eight copies.

    He had barely defeated the copies on the fourth floor; now, his opponents had doubled, and the difficulty had risen exponentially.

    ¡°Damn it, is this not my opportunity to advance into the Core Formation realm?¡±

    Xin Wuming was sent flying backward from a sword sh, covered in fresh blood. He panted heavily, but his gaze was still as ferocious as a wolf.

    ......

    In the fourth stage, Zi Ling also faced four copies of herself. Her violet qi surged and underwent a multitude of transformations.

    However, the copies had all her tricks and methods. They had suppressed her to the extent that she had difficulty defending herself.

    In the third stage, Jiu Wuxue, Qiu Beihai, Hong Qianjun, and the other geniuses on the Influential Figures Leaderboard fought fiercely. Deafening noises rang out endlessly, shaking the white light domes.

    In the Nebulous Battle Pce, the higher one''s cultivation level, the more challenging the stages became.

    Conversely, those at the eighth or ninth level all seemed extraordinarily strongpared to their peers and cleared four or five stages, obtaining plenty of benefits.

    ......

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Chen Fan appeared in the seventh stage.

    The environment remained the same, save for a white jade altar ahead with a mysterious wooden box atop it.

    Chen Fan looked over and thought. <i>From the looks of it, the reward for clearing the seventh stage isn¡¯t a mass of energy. It should be what¡¯s inside the wooden box. It seems to be either an elixir or a secret martial arts manual.</i>

    White light shone and transformed into a singr silhouette.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Chen Fan gasped lightly. His curiosity piqued as he realized it was no longer a copy of himself but an elder figure.

    ¡°Illusory Core realm...¡±

    The cultivation level of the seventh stage¡¯s guardian was as he had expected. He was in the Illusory Core realm.

    Suddenly, a voice rang out.

    ¡°Clearing six stages in a row, not bad, kid. Even in the ancient Nebulous Divine Pce, you''d be considered a top genius. Those oldies would fight to ept you as their disciple.¡±

    Chen Fan stared wide-eyed and said, ¡°You¡¯re alive?¡±

    ¡°Alive?¡± The white light silhouette chuckled and said, ¡°No, there¡¯s only a wisp of my will in here.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°Alright, kid, are you ready?¡±

    ¡°Come on!¡±

    Chen Fan pointed his iron spear, his aura surging.

    This white light silhouette¡¯s aura wasn¡¯t as strong as Qiu Beihai¡¯s aura. However, he could tell the owner of this will must have been a great figure of the Nebulous Divine Pce during ancient times.

    Someone like that would have cultivated to a terrifyingly high level. Theirbat techniques were something he could not match up to.

    The elder could most likely beat down an Illusory Core realm expert like Qiu Beihai, and hisbat strength was definitelyparable to experts like Xin Wuming or Zi Ling.

    Even though Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation increased significantly, he did not dare to be careless. He needed to take this fight seriously.

    The silhouette moved the instant Chen Fan finished speaking.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    They were fast as lightning. Chen Fan only saw a blur; next, he heard wind near his ear.

    <i>Retreat!</i>

    Chen Fan instantly sensed an intense danger and subconsciously backed off.

    As soon as he retreated, that white light silhouette appeared.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The silhouette unleashed a palm strike, making the air explode. The ground trembled, and the attack set off a terrifying wave of qi that struck Chen Fan, making him groan.

    ¡°What immense attack power!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank slightly.

    Even though his strength had skyrocketed, he could feel a strong sense of danger.

    ¡°Not bad, your reaction speed is pretty good.¡± The white light silhouette smiled and turned into a blur once more.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Chen Fan shouted, channeling his cultivation into his spear as he thrust it forward.

    Instantly, mes burst forth, spreading out in a fan shape and distorting the space with intense heat.

    However, a wind breaking sound came from Chen Fan¡¯s side, followed by an overwhelming force rushing over.

    <i>Swoosh.</i>

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    Chen Fan did not panic. He punched fiercely with his left hand, carrying an aura that wouldn¡¯t lose even if he fought against the heavens, and shed with the silhouette¡¯s palm.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A loud sound of qi exploding rang out. Chen Fan was pushed back repeatedly, but the silhouette was knocked several steps back.

    ¡°Hmm? Kid, you¡¯ve learned the Myriad Elephants Divine Art and even reached the ninthyer. That¡¯s very rare, even in the divine pce. Very good, very good.¡±

    ¡°Let me tell you something. If you can defeat me and also clear the next stage, you¡¯ll get the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. It¡¯ll push your Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the tenthyer, entering the Divine Strength realm.¡±

 Chapter 343 - Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes

    <h4>Chapter 343 - Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes</h4>

    ¡°You know my body cultivation technique?¡± Chen Fan was shocked.

    The white light elder wasn¡¯t in a hurry to attack and exined with a smile, ¡°Of course. The Myriad Elephants Divine Art originally belonged to our divine pce. I didn¡¯t expect you to obtain it or cultivate it to such a level. Not bad at all.¡±

    ¡°During ancient times, many of our disciples practiced it, but only a handful made significant progress. Finding someone at the level you''ve attained was even rarer, akin to finding a phoenix feather or a qilin''s horn.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°Senior, you said that there¡¯s a treasure in the eighth stage that can help me break through...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered in anticipation.

    He had cultivated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the peak of the ninthyer, but he had no idea how to advance to the next level¡ªthe Divine Strength realm.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The reward for the eighth stage is a Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. It possesses powerful properties for body tempering and can help you advance,¡± said the white light elder.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Many thanks for letting me know, Senior. Since that is the case, I must challenge the eighth stage.¡±

    ¡°Haha, kid, you need to get through this old man first to challenge the eighth stage.¡± The elder chuckled lightly. He pounced fiercely at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Fight!¡± Chen Fan shouted. His aura surged, ferociously stabbing out with his iron spear, piercing through heaven.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan and the white light elder engaged in a fierce battle.

    As could be expected of an ancient great figure, the silhouette¡¯s usage of martial skills and qi were top-notch despite it only being a trace of the elder¡¯s will.

    He managed to block all of Chen Fan¡¯s fierce attacks while utilizing minimal qi. Moreover, his counterattacks came from incredibly deceptive angles, flustering Chen Fan.

    ¡°Impressive! Truly impressive!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s shock grew the longer he fought.

    Logically speaking, this silhouette wasn¡¯t as strong as Qiu Beihai. If Chen Fan had to face Qiu Beihai, he was seventy percent confident that he could kill him.

    However, the elder possessed astonishingbat strength despite his cultivation being inferior to Qiu Beihai. Chen Fan could not ovee him anytime soon, constantly thrown off bnce by his counterattacks.

    ¡°Alright, I don¡¯t have to defeat him immediately. I can use him as a grinding stone, identify my weaknesses, and improve mybat techniques and experience.¡± A brilliant light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He couldn''t afford to miss such a valuable chance to gain practicalbat experience.

    Fifty moves.

    A hundred moves.

    Five hundred moves.

    A thousand moves.

    ......

    The entire light dome crackled with intense qi fluctuations as Chen Fan and the elder continued their exchange. Fierce winds whipped around relentlessly, emitting mournful whistles.

    Qi stormed constantly, causing explosions that resembled bursts of fireworks.

    Throughout his fight with the elder, Chen Fan gradually identified his shorings and diligently worked to improve in those areas.

    ¡°Haha, you''re quite something, using me as a grinding stone.¡±

    As their battle progressed, the white light elder keenly observed the changes in Chen Fan, and a glint of approval shone in his eyes.

    ¡°Thank you, Senior.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    They exchanged another thousand moves, and the elder finally noticed something was amiss.

    ¡°Kid, your primeval force is so robust. You¡¯re really not simple.¡±

    Chen Fan was using the elder¡¯s strength to hone his martial arts, and they had exchanged two thousand moves by now. If it were any other ninth-level Yuanfu realm martial artist, they would have exhausted their reserve of primeval force long ago. Yet, Chen Fan remained at peak condition, defying allmon sense.

    ¡°Please excuse me, Senior!¡±

    He had significantly improved, so he concluded that continuing the fight any longer would not serve any purpose.

    He suddenly unleashed his cultivation, setting off a wave of fierce wind.

    In the next move, the silhouette of his iron spear transformed into a ck hole, revealing the nightmarish scene within.

    A group of shadowy figures d in oversized ck garments, resembling underworld gods, emerged, ready to reap souls.

    ¡°Oh boy!¡± Chen Fan''s sudden shift in tactics caught the white light elder off guard. Reacting swiftly, the elder mobilized his cultivation and unleashed a powerful palm strike.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    A golden palm seal materialized, adorned with the Buddhist swastika symbol. It seemed like the palm of the primogenitor of Buddhism, with boundless golden light and the ability to suppress all evil.

    The qi could swallow mountains and rivers, sending crumbling rocks flying around.

    This palm strike was an absolute killer move. The technique was grand, and its strength was great.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The collision between the iron spear and the palm seal was thunderous. The impact caused the iron spear to bend, and a formidable force threw Chen Fan backward.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan roared and summoned his strength once more.

    Power surged within him like a torrential flood or a volcanic eruption, seemingly endless. Behind him, the majestic sight of ancient wild elephants trampling through space manifested.

    With a final burst of effort, the Great Brahma Sacred Palm began to falter. Numerous cracks appeared on it.

    <i>Crack, crack. Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Ultimately, the palm seal shattered to pieces and dispersed into nothingness.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    ¡°Congrattions, kid. You¡¯ve passed.¡±

    A fierce windstorm raged between Chen Fan and the elder. The terrifying fluctuations of that storm could even make experts at the ninth level despair.

    Meanwhile, cracks began to appear on the elder''s face.

    Light rays shot out from those cracks. And as his voice fell, the cracks covered him, and he shattered.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The wooden box on the white jade altar flew over automatically and floated in front of Chen Fan.

    It then opened on its own, revealing its contents with a soft sound.

    <i>Click.</i>

    It was a martial arts manual.

    ¡°Upper-profound tier martial skill, Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    Chen Fan picked up the manual and flipped it open. It was a martial skill for spears.

    Although its tier was not as high as Northern Star Reaper Hand, Chen Fan noticed that its attack power would not be much weaker than Northern Star Reaper Hand¡¯s if he could attainplete mastery.

    ¡°Good! Very good!¡±

    Chen Fan revealed a smile full of satisfaction.

    Northern Star Reaper Hand was a life-saving ace in the hole. Although powerful, its consumption of primeval force was enormous.

    However, when practiced toplete mastery, Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes¡¯ power wouldn¡¯t be much weaker than Northern Star Reaper Hand. Still, its consumption of primeval force was only a third inparison. It was very suitable for his current cultivation level.

    Chen Fan put away the Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes. Immediately, the space before him changed. He arrived at the eighth stage.

    A faintughter rang out. ¡°Kid, we meet again.¡±

 Chapter 344 â€“ Unstoppable

    <h4>Chapter 344 ¨C Unstoppable</h4>

    A faintughter rang out. ¡°Kid, we meet again.¡±

    Chen Fan looked over and realized that the guardian of this stage was also the elder from the seventh stage. However, now there were two of them, and their cultivation seemed slightly higher.

    ¡°Senior,¡± Chen Fan greeted, then looked behind the white-light elders.

    Behind them was a jade lotus altar. [1]

    On the lotus altar was the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. Its translucent stem and leaves were swaying gently. The leaves were like nine balls of scorching hot fire, slowly swaying and emitting extremely shocking energy fluctuations.

    ¡°Is that the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi?¡± Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly.

    The elder had told him that the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi was incredibly effective in body tempering. It could push his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the tenthyer¡ªthe Divine Strength realm.

    Seeing it firsthand, Chen Fan felt an immediate desire for it stirring within his flesh and blood.

    ¡°Kid, you need to defeat me first to obtain the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi,¡± said the two elders with a smile.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze became stern. His aura turned intense as he aimed his spear at the elder and said domineeringly, ¡°Since that is the case... let¡¯s fight!¡±

    He was determined to obtain the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. It could help his Myriad Elephants Divine Art reach a whole new level; he would undergo metamorphosis.

    It would allow him to fight Core Formation realm experts with his physical strength alone, without any need for his cultivation.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    The elders did not waste any time talking and made their moves.

    The two silhouettes struck almost simultaneously, attacking him from the sides. When they were about a hundred steps away from Chen Fan, they thrust their palms simultaneously, generating incredibly fierce winds.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Two terrifying palm seals loomed overhead, seemingly epassing the sky, threatening to shatter heaven and earth. A whistling sound reminiscent of mournful cries reverberated. The space within the entire white light dome started trembling violently.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    A determined glint shed in Chen Fan''s eyes. He stomped his foot and jumped into the air. His arm bulged fiercely, seemingly made of steel tendons and iron bones, as tremendous strength surged like a volcano erupting.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    Chen Fan thrust his spear forward, shaking the space. The iron spear emanated terrifying strength, capable of rending apart the sun, moon, and stars. It had only one goal¡ªto shatter the two colossal hands that dominated the sky.

    ¡°Heaven Piercing Spear, Heaven Breaking Stab!¡± Chen Fan roared, his voice echoing with intensity as his power surged, unveiling a majestic sight.

    The illusory silhouette of a heavenly god appeared at his back, wielding a spear. It looked up at the sky and raised its hand, stabbing at the heavens fiercely. With a loud rumble, an enormous hole appeared in the sky.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan was like the heavenly god that pierced through the heavens. With his attack, the heavens seemed to weep blood, and the spirits wailed as destruction ensued.

    <i>Boom ka!</i>

    The tworge hands came down like two heavenly curtains. Chen Fan¡¯s spear broke through the heavens, and following two loud booms, the two heavenly curtains shattered, revealing the clear blue sky.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The sh generated a terrifying wind that churned like the tide, mming into the white light dome and making it tremble violently. Its lights flickered.

    ¡°Oh boy, truly impressive!¡±

    The terrifying ripples pushed the two elders back, their glowing forms flickering.

    ¡°Again!¡± Chen Fan shouted,unching himself off the ground like an eagle taking flight. With a swish, he suddenly swooped down as if hunting prey, thrusting his spear forward.

    Executing a series of swift movements with his spear, Chen Fan sealed off heaven and earth, creating a force that momentarily restrained the elders'' movements as if they were bound.

    The two white light elders struck out simultaneously, executing their strongest move.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    Two terrifying palm seals flew toward Chen Fan; surprisingly, they were upside-down. Still, they were strong enough to destroy everything.

    ¡°Break, break, break!¡±

    Chen Fan thrust his spear repeatedly. His iron spear rubbed against the air violently, producing zing mes. The atmosphere reverberated with crackling noises akin to fireworks.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two Great Brahma Sacred Palms failed to stop Chen Fan.

    Except for his final ace in the hole¡ªNorthern Star Reaper Hand¡ªChen Fan had pushed all his martial arts to the limit.

    Countless spear silhouettes materialized from the void, each carrying the force of a hundred ancient wild elephants and capable of toppling mountains.

    ¡°Tempest Storm!¡±

    His stabbing technique was truly like a storm, embodying the wrath of the lord of heaven.

    With a surge of tremendous strength, Chen Fan felt increasingly exhrated and at ease with each strike. His mastery over his power felt instinctual now.

    ¡°Oh! Kid, you didn¡¯t go all out in the seventh stage.¡± The surprise didn¡¯t slow down the elder¡¯s hands in the slightest.

    Being an entity of pure energy, he had no restriction regarding the consumption of primeval force. His palms blurred, and numerous Great Brahma palm seals flew out like butterflies, shrouding the heaven and shaking the void.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The air exploded from the force, causing the currents to surge and churn like a monstrous wave crashing toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan felt like he was fighting monstrous waves on the sea. If he got careless, the waves would swallow him.

    ¡°Break, break, break...¡±

    Unfazed, he attacked to his heart¡¯s content, each strike containing the peak of his strength, breaking mountains and overturning seas. Nothing could stop him.

    With ease, Chen Fan destroyed the towering gale rushing toward him. The spear reduced the Great Brahma palm seals to nothing.

    The two white light elders retreated continuously. With a swish, they flew far away, taking a temporary respite.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere!¡± Chen Fan roared. The instant the two white light elders withdrew, he vanished and reappeared right next to one of the elders.

    ¡°Well done, kid. You won again. This Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi is yours," said the elder with a chuckle as Chen Fanunched his attack. In a puff of smoke, their figures dissipated.

    <i>Poof, poof.</i>

    Chen Fan''s strike met empty air, his expression tinged with helplessness.

    The white light elder knew he could defend himself against Chen Fan¡¯s attack, so instead of letting Chen Fan kill him again, he chose self-destruction to make himself feel better.

    Although it was only a wisp of his will, he was once a great figure of the divine pce. He would be too embarrassed if a brat at the ninth level killed him twice.

    ¡°What a cute senior,¡± Chen Fan muttered, shaking his head. Then, he looked at the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi ahead.

    ¡°It¡¯s mine now.¡±

    A fiery light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He could see himself advancing to the Divine Strength realm.

    Momentster, the spatial surroundings shifted, and Chen Fan found himself at the ninth stage.

    1. Instead of a regrly shaped tform, the sides are decorated with lotus patterns. ?

 Chapter 345 - Nebulous Divine Token

    <h4>Chapter 345 - Nebulous Divine Token</h4>

    Thekeside had already be a battlefield from Asura Hell.

    The dozen or so blood demons, led by Xue Tianhe, now guarded theke, hunting down any martial artists emerging from theke.

    Their surroundings were littered with desated corpses, drained of their lifeblood, numbering no less than two hundred in total.

    The people leaving theke simply couldn¡¯t escape from the blood demons. They all became their blood sustenance, helping Xue Tianhe and his group be stronger.

    ¡°Haha, good. This feels too good. Just twenty people and I have already advanced into the Illusory Core realm.¡± A blood demonughed out loud, the corners of their mouth full of blood.

    These demonic beings cultivated the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique, which drew power from fresh blood. Their cultivation would skyrocket as long as they continued to feed.

    That fast cultivation speed lured many toward the demonic path, turning them into demonic beings that feasted on blood, resembling neither human nor ghost.

    ¡°Although I¡¯m a bit short, I¡¯ll also reach it soon.¡± Another blood demonughed.

    ¡°Quick, look at Xue Tianhe. What a powerful aura! It seems like he¡¯s about to break through!¡±

    The dozen or so blood demons looked at Xue Tianhe, seated nearby. Their eyes widened as a brilliant crimson light erupted from him, his body engulfed in red hair.

    Xue Tianhe had been a step away from entering the Core Formation realm. So, the fresh blood from forty to fifty people helped his umted energy reach the limit.

    ¡°That guy cultivates so quickly. From the looks of it, he should be breaking through to the Core Formation realm any time now.¡±

    "Hehe, with him keeping watch, none in theke stand a chance of escape."

    ¡°This time, we can kill and feast to our hearts¡¯ content. Who knows, we might also advance to the Core Formation realm."

    ¡°Mmm, don¡¯t think about Xue Tianhe for now. Keep an eye on theke. Kill anyone whoes out.¡±

    ......

    Bottom of theke, the white marble za:

    The trials of the battle pce had kicked out many people already. Covered in dirt, they all looked full of indignation.

    Among these people were those at the eighth and ninth levels, as well as geniuses from the Influential Figures Leaderboard.

    ¡°Damn it, so close! Just a bit more, and I could have defeated the third-stage guardian!¡± Hong Qianjun roared with unwillingness.

    He used to be at the peak of the ninth level; after absorbing pure qi from two stages, he entered the Illusory Core realm. However, he was kicked out in the third stage.

    Luo Hanshan walked over, sensing Hong Qianjun¡¯s Illusory Core realm aura, and cursed with a low voice, ¡°What are you crying about? At least you profited more from it!¡±

    He also used to be at the peak of the ninth. He also cleared two stages, yet the pure reward qi wasn¡¯t enough for him to enter the Illusory Core realm, so he was now a tad weaker than Hong Qianjun. Next, he was also kicked out in the third stage.

    Qiu Beihai sat in a corner, his gaze eerie.

    ¡°Given that little bastard¡¯s strength, he can clear five stages and obtain plenty of benefits. He might even break through to the ninth level. Damn it!¡±

    Looking at the Nebulous Battle Pce, a cold light flickered in Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes like a poisonous snake.

    Suddenly, another figure was kicked out of the battle pce.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    When the crowd saw the neer, someone immediately eximed, ¡°It¡¯s Zi Ling!¡±

    Zi Ling appeared quite battered, with traces of blood staining the corners of her lips.

    ¡°Zi Ling, how many stages did you clear?¡± Hong Qianjun immediately asked.

    Zi Ling nced at him and answered coldly, ¡°Four.¡±

    <i>Hiss!</i> The crowd immediately sucked in a breath of cold air.

    Four stages!

    Truly befitting the genius ranked fifth on the Influential Figures Leaderboard.

    Zi Ling¡¯s gaze swept the white marble za. Not spotting Xin Wuming, she inquired, ¡°What about Xin Wuming? Is he out yet?¡±

    Someone answered, ¡°I was among the first to get kicked out. Xin Wuming is not out yet. I wonder which stage he¡¯s in now.¡±

    While they were talking, Xin Wuming was also kicked out.

    ¡°You¡¯re finally out, Xin Wuming!¡±

    Zi Ling¡¯s eyes lit up and became a little sharper. She asked, ¡°How many stages did you clear?¡±

    Xin Wuming¡¯s expression didn¡¯t look good. He answered coldly, ¡°I failed at the fifth stage.¡±

    Upon hearing this, Zi Ling secretly let out a sigh of relief and said, ¡°Same.¡±

    Someone asked, ¡°What¡¯s the test in the fifth stage?¡±

    Zi Ling answered, ¡°Eight opponents with the same cultivation as me.¡±

    As soon as she said that, the white marble za fell silent.

    To put it into perspective, Zi Ling and Xin Wuming were both geniuses with fifty percent solid illusory cores. Ordinary Illusory Core realm experts were simply no match for them.

    So, clearing a stage with eight Illusory Core realm experts at their level was an unimaginably daunting task. Some might even consider it impossible.

    A youth who had cleared the fourth stage but also failed to clear the fifth asked, ¡°That¡¯s not right. In the fifth stage, I fought against sixteen copies with slightly higher cultivation than me.¡±

    Some people immediately spoke up.

    ¡°Idiot, can your cultivation level rival Zi Ling and Xin Wuming? They are Illusory Core realm experts and are top tier even among those at the same cultivation level. If their challenge went by the same rules as yours, you think it would be fair for them to fight sixteen copies with a cultivation even higher than them? Such a trial would be unreasonable.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Nebulous Battle Pce''s stages are tailored to the challenger''s cultivation level. The stronger you are, the more difficult it is. On the contrary, the lower your cultivation level is, the easier it is to clear more stages.¡±

    Meanwhile, at the ninth stage:

    Seeing the white light elder in front of him, Chen Fan smiled. ¡°Senior, we meet again.¡±

    This time, the guardian of the ninth stage stood alone, unlike before. Still, he was now as strong as the ancient piranha king, an Illusory Core realm expert with approximately ny percent solid core.

    Just his mere aura was enough to make Chen Fan feel a little suffocated.

    His strength had skyrocketed, yet Chen Fan felt a hefty pressure facing the elder. He wasn¡¯t confident in defeating his opponent.

    A ny percent solid core meant that a mere thin line separated one from the Core Formation realm. The elder was almost as strong as a Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°How rare. Only a handful have made it this far since I became the guardian of the Nebulous Battle Pce. Even when the divine pce was at its peak, there weren¡¯t many. Every one of them became a powerful figure with great fameter in life.¡±

    The white light elder sounded a little sad.

    ¡°The reward for the final stage is not a martial art manual, artifacts, or spiritual items, but the Nebulous Divine Token.¡±

    The white light elder waved his hand. A palm-sized bronze token floated above his palm.

    The Nebulous Divine Token looked very ordinary, crafted from a piece of bronze with some patterns carved on it.

    The word ¡®Nebulous¡¯ was engraved on the front side, while the back was engraved with a building that resembled an immortal watchtower.

    ¡°During ancient times, those who made their way to the ninth stage were rare, like a phoenix¡¯s feather or a qilin¡¯s horn, and those who managed to obtain the Nebulous Divine Token can be counted with one hand. The Nebulous Divine Token symbolizes supreme status in the Nebulous Divine Pce.

    ¡°s, the divine pce fell apart and became history in that huge battle. Now, the Nebulous Divine Token seems a little worthless.¡±

 Chapter 346 - End of Challenge

    <h4>Chapter 346 - End of Challenge</h4>

    In the Tianwu Continent, the Nebulous Divine Pce used to be a colossal sect and the leader of the righteous sects.

    The Nebulous Divine Token symbolized the Nebulous Divine Pce, a possession beyond the reach of ordinary individuals.

    However, the token had lost its significance with the Nebulous Divine Pce consigned to history. Obtaining a lower-profound tier martial arts manual would serve more practical purposes.

    The white light elder suddenly switched topics and said, ¡°The Nebulous Divine Pce is gone, but if you get the opportunity to enter the Nebulous Divine Realm in the future, perhaps you can use this token to enter the core area of the divine pce and obtain the many legacies within.¡±

    Although the Nebulous Divine Pce had faded into history, its legacies endured, their whereabouts shrouded in mystery. They might resurface one day or remain forever hidden.

    The elder put the Nebulous Divine Token away and looked at Chen Fan. ¡°Alright, kid, decide whether to proceed with the test.¡±

    Chen Fan did not say a word; instead, he expressed his choice through his actions.

    Although the prospects of obtaining the legacies of the Nebulous Divine Pce seemed unreal, even if there was no reward for the ninth stage, Chen Fan would still fight the elder to test his strength.

    ¡°Haha, good,e on then!¡± The white light elderughed out loud. He suddenly pounced, generating a powerful gust of wind that enveloped Chen Fan with formidable pressure.

    Chen Fan had expected him to be strong, but his heart still jumped in fright from that move.

    The crowd had to join forces at the white marble za to y the piranha king. It was not a feat aplished by relying on an individual¡¯s strength.

    So, Chen Fan was facing someone as strong, if not stronger, as the piranha king alone. Although he had grown stronger since then, the pressure remained as heavy as a mountain.

    ¡°Let¡¯s fight!¡± Chen Fan''s eyes betrayed no hint of fear, even in the face of immense pressure.

    A fierce fighting spirit rose within him. Three heads and six arms appeared at his back, ferociously attacking the oing elder.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Terrifying booms rang out repeatedly like ps of thunder. The entire white light dome shook violently, their qi storming out, and the air exploded everywhere.

    In the epicenter of their collision, the airflow copsed, sending out ripples of terrifying force like rushing river currents.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The elder suddenly disappeared from the spot; when he reappeared, he was already in the air, above Chen Fan.

    Pressing down with a palm, the space produced a loud noise as the terrifying strength rushed over like a crashing wave.

    The boundless pressure descended like a mountain, savagely tearing through the void and homing in on Chen Fan below. The elder showed no restraint in his attack.

    Chen Fan raised his spear horizontally, defending himself.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    The overwhelming force bore down upon him, causing his back to bend and the ground beneath his feet to crack, fractures spreading like a spider''s web.

    Chen Fan¡¯s six arms struck out ferociously. Every punch carried the strength to shake the starry sky, his strength rushing out like a flood.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    The elderughed out loud as his palm strike pressed down, suppressing Chen Fan. His might was unmatched.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡± Chen Fan shouted, directly executing his ace in the hole.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand crushed everything.

    The terrifying palm force exploded, throwing the elder back in the air and making his glowing form flicker.

    ¡°Hoho, impressive indeed. You still have such a powerful trick up your sleeve. Truly shocking.¡±

    He had been fighting Chen Fan since the seventh stage. Chen Fan seemingly went all out in every stage, making the elder think he had used his final ace. However, he would prove that the elder had assumed wrong in the next stage.

    Chen Fan seemed like a bottomless abyss, his strength seemingly limitless and unfathomable.

    ¡°But, kid, the difference in our cultivations is too great. Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    When the white light elder struck out with his palm, boundless golden light shone, and a huge golden palm seal came flying.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan channeled his cultivation, his primordial energy surging through his meridians like a mighty river. His seven illusory primeval vessels rotated wildly, abruptly raising hisbat strength by seven times.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    The white light elder sensed Chen Fan¡¯s aura surging again and was astonished.

    ¡°Hmm, you really are a bottomless pit, kid.¡±

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    The collision of their attacks sent shockwaves rippling through space.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack!</i>

    The sturdy white light dome cracked open under the immense pressure, revealing numerous fissures¡ªa truly astonishing sight.

    <i>Poof, tch!</i>

    Chen Fan flew back like a ragdoll, crashing on the ground and spewingrge mouthfuls of blood.

    The elder also flew back but was faring much better than Chen Fan. In the sh of their techniques, it became clear who was stronger.

    Chen Fan stood back up. He bowed to the elder and said, ¡°I have lost, Senior.¡±

    He was no match for the white-light elder. There was no doubt about it.

    An expert of the Illusory Core realm with a ny percent solid core was too strong for Chen Fan, even though he was already at the ninth level.

    However, if he could master the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art and use nine illusory primeval vessels, thereby unleashing nine times hisbat strength, he could fight the elder to a draw.

    The white light elder nodded and said, ¡°You''ve shown remarkable skill. Evenpared to the ancient geniuses who reached the ninth stage, you''d rank among the elite. However..."

    After a momentary pause, the white light elder continued, ¡°Although you lost, I¡¯ll give you this Nebulous Divine Token regardless. Hopefully, you¡¯ll find the Nebulous Divine Realm in the future and enter the core of the divine pce.¡±

    The Nebulous Divine Token flew toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Senior, this...¡±

    The elder smiled and said, ¡°Take it. If you can inherit the legacies of the Nebulous Divine Pce, you will also bring the Nebulous Divine Pce back to the Tianwu Continent. Aside from this, I would like to give you a personal gift.¡±

    As soon as his voice fell, a streak of light rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s brow and transformed into a martial skill¡ªthe Great Brahma Sacred Palm.

    ¡°Alright, kid, go on.¡±

    The white light elder flung his sleeves. A light descended and enveloped Chen Fan; simultaneously, a mass of pure energy entered him, healing his injuries instantly.

    Before Chen Fan could speak a word, the world seemed to spin around him, and in the blink of an eye, he found himself back on the white marble za.

    The gates of the Nebulous Battle Pce closed with a resounding thud.

    Everyone''s gaze fell on Chen Fan. No one had expected him to be thest to exit. They wondered how many stages he cleared.

    ¡°It¡¯s over.¡±

    ¡°The battle pce¡¯s gate shut. It means everyone¡¯s challenges have ended. Who can say how many stages hepleted? ¡±

    ¡°Five or six at the most. Just because he exitedst doesn''t necessarily mean he''s cleared the most stages. He might have simply taken longer to clear each.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd''s murmurs filled the air as they nced at Chen Fan, curious about his results.

    Among them, Qiu Beihai''s gaze bore a sinister edge as it fell on Chen Fan.

    ¡°This little bastard broke through to the ninth level!¡±

    Qiu Beihai looked bitter, as he couldn¡¯t kill Chen Fan now.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As the crowd talked, a terrifying qi fluctuation suddenly reached them, making the bottom of theke tremble, and theke waters churn intensely.

 Chapter 347 - Xue Tianhe Breaks Through

    <h4>Chapter 347 - Xue Tianhe Breaks Through</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, everyone felt a terrifying qi fluctuation. The bottom of theke shook as if there was an earthquake. Theke water churned, generating ferocious undercurrents.

    ¡°What is going on?¡±

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°This qi fluctuation... so powerful! So terrifying!¡±

    ¡°This qi fluctuation belongs to a Core Formation realm expert. Has someone reached that level?"

    ¡°......¡±

    At the white marble za, the crowd¡¯s expressions changed.

    The cultivation levels of everyone present weren¡¯t weak. They could be said to be at the top of the Yuanfu realm. Only a genuine Core Formation realm expert could make them feel such an intense sense of oppression.

    The expressions of Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, and the other geniuses on the Influential Figures Leaderboard also changed.

    A steely glint shed in Xin Wuming''s eyes.

    ¡°This pressure belongs to a Core Formation realm expert, no doubt about it!¡±

    Zi Ling nodded in agreement and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. I wonder who that is?¡±

    Hong Qianjun red fiercely like a tiger and said in a low voice, ¡°Cut the crap. We¡¯ll know once we go up and take a look. Judging from the qi fluctuations, the person should be near theke.¡±

    Chen Fan thought of a person, and his expression sank. To be precise, it wasn¡¯t a person but rather a demonic being.

    <i>Xue Tianhe!</i>

    Xue Tianhe had been on the verge of reaching the Core Formation realm. What if he had guarded theke, waiting for his prey to show up? Feasting on those thrown out of theke? That would allow Xue Tianhe to devour many people¡¯s fresh blood and advance to the Core Formation realm.

    Blood demons practiced a unique cultivation technique. As long as there was a sufficient supply of fresh blood, they could increase their cultivation rapidly, perhaps even faster than Chen Fan refining demon or corpse cores using the Heaven Seizing Art.

    ¡°Xue Tianhe...¡± said Chen Fan as his expression became ugly. He was almost certain this Core Formation realm qi fluctuation came from him.

    Xue Tianhe''s advancement to the Core Formation realm spelled disaster for them.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go up and see who broke through to the Core Formation realm.¡±

    Xin Wuming took the lead and moved ahead. Sword qi flowed around him, parting the water as he shot toward the surface.

    ¡°How truly unexpected. Someone broke through to the Core Formation realm. I wonder who¡¯s the lucky one?¡±

    ¡°Some lucky guy probably obtained some heavenly treasure outside. After all, the Nebulous Mysterious Realm is huge. The Nebulous Battle Pce is not the only ce with opportunities.¡±

    ¡°Go, go, go. We¡¯ll know after we go take a look.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd revolved their cultivation one after another and flew up.

    At thekeside:

    The bloody light around Xue Tianhe was extremely dazzling. It transformed into a blood-colored pir of light and rose to the sky, linking the sky and the ground.

    His extraordinary aura was like a flood, rolling and surging. Each wave was stronger than thest. With him at the center, a terrifying storm swirled. Sand and gravel flew everywhere, crushed into powder.

    ¡°He broke through! Xue Tianhe broke through!¡±

    ¡°This guy¡¯s umtion is so deep. He just broke through, but his aura shows no sign of unsteadiness. His foundation is incredibly stable, unlike those whose strength wavers after a breakthrough."

    ¡°Such powerful qi fluctuations. I suppose those people at the bottom of theke felt it, too. I wonder what their faces look like right now?¡±

    ¡°Who cares what they look like? Do you need to care about dead people?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The dozen or so blood demons¡¯ eyes flickered.

    One of the Illusory Core realm blood demons said, ¡°Pay attention. Those people below should being up now. Don¡¯t let them disturb Xue Tianhe. He¡¯s at thest step.¡±

    The other blood demons nodded one after another. Blood-colored primeval force swirled around them; it looked like blood was flowing on their skin. An evil aura spread out.

    A lot of bubbling happened on the surface of theke.

    <i>Blup! Blup!</i>

    The blood demons narrowed their eyes. ¡°On guard, they areing out.¡±

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    An extremely fierce streak of sword qi broke through the water''s surface and rushed out. The sword qi swept out in all directions, and the air was filled with a sense of emptiness.

    ¡°Move!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Xin Wuming broke out of the water, and the blood demons immediately channeled their cultivation. The towering blood waves attacked ferociously, crashing over like a storm.

    ¡°Blood demons!¡± Xin Wuming recognized them from their auras. He immediately reacted, and the sword qi around him stirred. He swung his sword, and a streak of sword light swept out horizontally.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sword qinded on the blood demons¡¯ attack and immediately blew up. A sshing noise came from the towering blood wave, falling onto theke''s surface like torrential rain, dyeing the waters bloody red.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Xin Wuming and the blood demons were all pushed back from the impact.

    Simultaneously, Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, Chen Fan, and others emerged.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    ¡°Blood demons! It¡¯s actually blood demons!¡±

    Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, and the others¡¯ faces immediately darkened. They hadn¡¯t expected the owner of that Core Formation realm aura to be a blood demon.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk when he saw Xue Tianhe sitting cross-legged by theke. His aura kept surging like the tide.

    ¡°Like I thought, it¡¯s Xue Tianhe!¡±

    ¡°What do we do? It¡¯s actually blood demons!¡±

    The expressions of the others underwent a drastic shift, some even recoiling in horror as they saw the two to three hundred desated corpses littering thekeside.

    Xin Wuming shouted, calming the panicking crowd, ¡°Don¡¯t panic! That demonic being hasn¡¯tpleted his breakthrough. With our numbers, we can seize this opportunity to strike together and kill that demon!"

    ¡°Right, we¡¯ll strike together like when we killed the piranha king and kill these demonic beings.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s strike immediately. It¡¯ll be the end of us once that demonic being stabilizes his cultivation!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd instantly responded one after another.

    ¡°Attack, don¡¯t hold back!¡± Xin Wumingmanded, his primeval energy surging. His sword qi gushed out, shing down at Xue Tianhe.

    Xin Wuming raised his sword with his right hand, infusing primeval force into his sword. The sheer momentum caused nearby qi currents to swirl like a relentless river of des.

    ¡°Infinite Thunderp!¡±

    Xin Wuming shed out. An iparably thick sword qi ripped the air open, shing toward Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Meanwhile, Zi Ling''s violet aura churned violently. Streaks of purple light shot forth like the light of destruction, piercing the space. The air melted under this violet qi.

    ¡°Violet Qi Brilliant Sky!¡±

    ¡°Bloody Three Thousand sh!¡±

    Red light waves surged from Jiu Wuxue. His de shed with a bloody light, and the light seemed to be dripping as if the de was bleeding. He chopped down with a wider stance, as if to cleave a mountain in half.

    Everyone unleashed their cultivation and attacked quickly.

    Numerous streaks of qi shot toward Xue Tianhe like ten thousand horses galloping, trampling the space, wanting to st him to bits.

    The dozen or so blood demons¡¯ expressions changed several times at the sight, sensing a grim reaper approaching them.

    The strongest among them was in the Illusory Core realm. When faced with over a hundred genius¡¯bined attacks, it felt like they were a twig before a flood. They couldn¡¯t block it. Anything in its path would be thoroughly smashed into smithereens.

    Just as the blood demons thought of hardening themselves and blocking the attacks, a cold voice rang out from behind them.

    ¡°Get out of the way!¡± Xue Tianhe roared. His voice spread like a wave, instantly colliding with Xin Wuming, Chen Fan, and the others¡¯ attacks.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying explosions rang out endlessly like firecrackers. Theke''s surface was blown apart by countless forces, as if a meteor shower had fallen into theke, exploding intensely.

    Tons ofke water erupted skyward, cascading down like a deluge of rain.

    ¡°Blood Sea Flips the Heaven!¡±

    Xue Tianhe stepped forward, leaping over the blood demons and channeling his cultivation. A blood wave surged from him, crushing and wiping out all the attacks.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Xin Wuming and the others flew back from the impact. Some weaker ones turned pale from the shock, with blood flowing out of the corners of their lips.

    Seeing Xue Tianhe had fully advanced into the Core Formation realm, despair surfaced on many people¡¯s faces.

    ¡°We¡¯re done for!¡±

 Chapter 348 â€“ Unity

    <h4>Chapter 348 ¨C Unity</h4>

    Despair washed over most of the crowd as they watched Xue Tianhe take that final step, advancing to the Core Formation realm. With a single roar, he had neutralized thebined attack of over a hundred geniuses and sent them flying back with a follow-up attack.

    ¡°We¡¯re done for!¡±

    Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, and the other leaderboard geniuses suppressed their churning qi and blood. Their gazes turned extremely grim.

    Xue Tianhe had just advanced, but his aura betrayed no hint of unstableness. His aura was so stable that it seemed like he had advanced half a year ago. He had devoured the blood of numerous experts, bolstering his strength to an extraordinary degree upon his breakthrough.

    ¡°What do we do?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re in trouble. This demonic being has just broken through, but his cultivation is already so stable. He¡¯ll be tough to deal with.¡±

    Hong Qianjun, Yuan Jun, and the others¡¯ eyes narrowed in concern as they gravitated toward Xin Wuming, Zi Ling, and Jiu Wuxue, the strongest among the crowd.

    The people subconsciously treated the three as their leaders when facing Xue Tianhe and the other blood demons.

    His expression grim, Xin Wuming said solemnly, ¡°We have no choice. We must fight to the death.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Xue Tianheughed out loud, his eyes carrying traces of contempt. ¡°Fight to the death? Can you do that? My advice: surrender now. It''ll spare you needless suffering. Today, there''s no escape for you¡ªonly death awaits!"

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Only death awaits you!¡±

    ¡°Hehe, perhaps we¡¯ll end the younger generation of the Wuning Empire with this.¡±

    The blood demonsughed carefreely. They licked their lips, casting savage nces at Xin Wuming and the others.

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want to die!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to die either! Run, quickly, run!¡±

    Panicked voices erupted from the crowd as some sumbed to the overwhelming pressure, darting off in a desperate bid to flee.

    ¡°I warned you. None of you will escape. Did you think I, Xue Tianhe, was bluffing?" said Xue Tianhe, his expression dripping with disdain.

    He had already advanced into the Core Formation realm, yet they thought they could flee?

    What a joke!

    The bloody lighting from Xue Tianhe fluctuated. Then, he crossed his arms before his chest and pushed them out.

    The bloody light transformed into blood-colored eagles. With Xue Tianhe as the starting point, they flew towards the fleeing individuals with lightning speed, almost imperceptible to the naked eye.

    <i>Chirp. Chirp, chirp...</i>

    <i>Ah! </i>A miserable cry rang out. A crimson w pierced into the head of the slowest youth. That person¡¯splexion instantly turned red as all his blood flowed in reverse to his brain, absorbed and devoured by the blood eagle.

    Soon, that youth¡¯s miserable cry faded. The blood eagle had sucked away all his blood.

    The same thing happened to the other fleeing martial artists. None of them managed to escape. Every one of them died tragically.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    The blood eagles returned after absorbing fresh blood and fused into Xue Tianhe.

    Meanwhile, on Xin Wuming and Chen Fan''s side, the unfolding spectacle sent shivers down the crowd¡¯s spines, causing them to instinctively recoil.

    It was too scary.

    Even martial artists at the ninth level had tried to flee earlier, but they also failed to put up any resistance before they were killed and devoured, shocking the crowd.

    This was the power of a Core Formation realm expert!

    ¡°How is it? You saw it for yourselves. Although you have the numbers on your side, with several Illusory Core realm experts to boot, you''re still nothing more than a group of ants to me.

    ¡°In front of absolute strength, you ants are useless. I can easily kill you with a mere gesture. Now, choose your death: swift or agonizing?¡±

    Xue Tianhe crossed his arms, looking at Xin Wuming and the others with detachment reminiscent of a butcher looking at their cattle.

    Shifting his gaze onto Chen Fan, he said coldly, ¡°Hoho, kid, you won¡¯t be so lucky this time. Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯re different from him. I won¡¯t kill you right away. You''ll be my captive, a steady source of fresh blood.¡±

    Xin Wuming and the others¡¯ pupils trembled upon hearing this.

    Chen Fan had crossed paths with Xue Tianhe before!

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were iparably cold. He said, ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s strike together. We will all die here today if we don¡¯t force this demonic being back or kill him.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Xin Wuming nodded. His gaze turned vicious, and he said, ¡°Don¡¯t listen to this demonic being. We have the absolute advantage in numbers. If we join forces, there¡¯s still a slim chance of making it out alive. But if we give up, then we have no hope left.¡±

    ¡°He''s giving us a choice because he''s worried about us banding together and fighting him to the death. Now more than ever, we must unite as one and push back against these demonic beings.¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes flickered.

    ¡°Yes, join forces!¡±

    ¡°Join forces! Join forces!¡±

    The crowd wasn''t foolish. Surrendering to Xue Tianhe''s wishes would only spell doom for them.

    ¡°Hoho, you¡¯re still holding onto a sliver of delusion. Since that is the case, you can¡¯t me me. Blood Sea Flips the Heaven!¡±

    The corners of Xue Tianhe¡¯s lips curled up into a vicious smile. The bloody light around him rushed into the sky, and the aura and the pressure of a Core Formation realm expert erupted, shrouding heaven and earth.

    Immediately, everyone felt as if an ancient divine mountain was pressing down on them.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A terrifying sea of blood surged and rushed over. The force was capable of pulverizing even the mightiest of mountains.

    ¡°Attack! Attack him together!¡± Xin Wuming roared. His sword let out a metallic cry. He held nothing back, channeling his cultivation to the limit and shing out.

    Zi Ling, Jiu Wuxue, and the others did the same.

    Everyone understood that they were at a crossroads between survival and death. Holding back meant certain death¡ªthere was no room for doubt in this fight for survival.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Several powerful masses of qi st out, converging into a colorful pir of light. It carried an aura capable of destroying mountains and severing the sea, sting toward the sea of blood rushing in their direction.

    Chen Fan had also gone all out. The seven illusory primeval vessels rotated as he thrust out his spear, causing heaven and earth to change colors.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Earth-shaking explosions boomed, threatening to burst the people¡¯s eardrums. Terrifying sound waves spread out. Some mountains and trees in theke¡¯s surroundings broke apart from the vibrations.

    The entire ground shook, with winding cracks appearing all over. Theke water was raised into towering waves, rolling and crashing.

 Chapter 349 - Despair Again

    <h4>Chapter 349 - Despair Again</h4>

    Mountains copsed, and the earth cracked. Even the tectonic tes shifted. Chen Fan sensed the ground giving way as if it might copse.

    The entirekeside was sinking and copsing. It felt like a storm capable of wiping out all life was sweeping through the area, its immense force wreaking havoc and chaos.

    The terrifying qi would drown the heaven, ocean, and even the starry sky.

    Amid the collision, the sky above theke trembled violently, generating countless ripples. Numerous ck lines appeared, causing the people¡¯s hair to stand on end.

    Those were spatial rifts.

    The Nebulous Mysterious Realm was only a secret realm, so the space was unstable. When the forces at y exceeded its limits, it would rupture.

    Thebined attack of Chen Fan and a hundred others had shed with Xue Tianhe¡¯s attack, so while it didn¡¯t shatter the space, it did lead to numerous spatial rifts. The power unleashed had pushed the Nebulous Mysterious Realm to its breaking point.

    This was to be expected, as this space served as a training ground for disciples under the Core Formation realm. Even an Illusory Core realm martial artist with a ny percent solid core couldn¡¯t shatter the space.

    However, Xue Tianhe was now a genuine Core Formation realm expert, while Chen Fan¡¯s side had more than a hundred martial artists, both delivering an all-out strike. It was like a sh of two Core Formation realm martial artists.

    Chen Fan¡¯s side had gained the upper hand in the sh. They broke the sea of blood apart, forcing Xue Tianhe to step back repeatedly, leaving several footprints in the air.

    The crowd erupted in excitement and regained their confidence.

    ¡°We pushed him back! Indeed, with so many of us joining forces, even a Core Formation realm blood demon is no match for us!¡±

    ¡°Great, there¡¯s hope for us.¡±

    The adage, ¡°Even an army of ants could kill an elephant with their bites,¡± proved true here.

    The group had a hundred individuals, all at high Yuanfu realm cultivation levels and some even at the Illusory Core realm. Such might could destroy heaven and earth.

    ¡°Attack again! Suppress these blood demons in one go!¡± roared the crowd, their auras bing even fiercer.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    As the crowd pushed their cultivation to the limit, their auras surged, generating a powerful gale.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡±

    A resounding chorus of battle cries echoed as the crowd unleashed theirbined fury again.

    Their assaults merged into a torrent, sweeping over the space and tearing it asunder. The space shook and cracked from the attacks as they charged toward Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°Very well, you ants are still trying to overturn the heavens. What a joke! Get annihted, Corpse Mountain Blood Sea!¡±

    A dangerous light shed in Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes. He condensed another blood sea; this sea also had skeleton soldiers wielding all kinds of weapons. They marched forth, treading on the blood sea, qi erupting from their bony forms. It was a bizarre sight.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    The ground quaked once more as the two forces collided with earth-shattering force, explosions reverberating continuously.

    <i>Bang, bang. Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Terrifying hurricanes swept the area, ravaging heaven and earth.

    In the chaos, bursts of light erupted incessantly, churning theke waters violently, resulting in the deaths of many ancient piranhas that floated lifelessly to the surface.

    Xue Tianhe''s hands formed a circr seal, gathering the bloody light into a colossal blood hammer that hovered menacingly in the sky. It brought about a terrifying sense of oppression and smashed down violently, rupturing the air.

    ¡°Blood God Hammer!¡±

    Xin Wuming, Chen Fan, and the others pushed their cultivation to the limit, forcibly resisting the descending Blood God Hammer.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    A thunderous rumbling rang out; it seemed like the furious roar of the lord of heaven.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A powerful hurricane surged outward, and an invisible force swept through the space and threw both factions back.

    Joy spread across the faces of Chen Fan and Xin Wuming''s allies, while Xue Tianhe''s expression darkened with frustration.

    Xue Tianhe had anticipated an easy victory over them, but it was bing apparent that the battle would be far from straightforward.

    Every one of those hundred people had managed to survive in this mysterious realm until now. They had obtained plenty of benefits and greatly increased their strength. Even Xue Tianhe was powerless before a mighty group like that.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The other blood demons approached him and said, ¡°Xue Tianhe, it seems these people are determined to resist until the end. Let us unite our forces, too. Even though you¡¯ve advanced into the Core Formation realm, you can¡¯t take them all down.¡±

    Xue Tianhe did not object. He nodded and said, ¡°Fine, then. Attack with me. Kill them all!¡±

    The crowd, emboldened by their recent sesses, felt a surge of apprehension when they saw the dozen or so blood demons preparing to join the fray.

    Their confidence wavered as they realized that facing Xue Tianhe alone had already stretched their limits, and with the added strength of the blood demons, their task seemed daunting once more.

    ¡°Stay strong, everyone. These blood demons are not in the Core Formation realm, and only a few are in the Illusory Core realm. We don¡¯t have to fear them!¡± Xin Wuming roared.

    They could not afford to lose their momentum at this time. At this critical juncture, it could plunge them into despair.

    ¡°Hmph. We''ll shatter your hopespletely with this!¡±

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s side did not bother to say much. They channeled their cultivations as one, causing cracking noises to resound through space.

    ¡°Blood God Arm!¡±

    A blood-colored arm reached out from within the sea of blood. As if it had descended from the ancient deste era, ancient blood runes flickered on it. It seemingly held the sky with one arm and could wipe out everything.

    Chen Fan, Xin Wuming, and the others felt a shiver run down their spines. The attack seemed so strong that it could crush time and space.

    s, they couldn¡¯t retreat, as that would be no different from epting death.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Numerous explosions rang out like a barrage of cannons sting non-stop.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    A terrifying storm whistled and ravaged through the heavens and earth. It could seemingly even tear apart someone at the seventh level.

    <i>Boom ka!</i>

    Thebined attack of Chen Fan and more than a hundred people shed against the Blood God Arm, holding out for more than ten breaths before finally sumbing and exploding.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    The recoil caused some seventh and eighth-level Yuanfu realm martial artists to turn pale. They seemed heavily injured, spewing fresh blood from their mouths. They were pushed back and thrown into disarray.

    Even those who were exceptionally strong, like Chen Fan and Xin Wuming, struggled to contain their violently churning qi and blood.

    A sense of despair loomed over the crowd.

    ¡°Do you understand now? You are nothing more than ants trying to topple a towering tree. Your aspirations areughable," Xue Tianhe dered with haughty arrogance, his aura radiating dominance.

    Chen Fan suppressed his churning qi and blood and nced at the crowd; their auras were also in disorder. He took a deep breath, a stern light shooting out from his eyes, and said, ¡°Everyone, I need you to help buy me some time. I am on the verge of a breakthrough. I will have the strength to fight Xue Tianhe if I seed.¡±

 Chapter 350 - A Race Against Time

    <h4>Chapter 350 - A Race Against Time</h4>

    Chen Fan''s words made Xin Wuming and the others visibly tense.

    A sharp voice cut through the air, belonging to Qiu Beihai, who red at Chen Fan icily. ¡°Hmph, who knows what schemes you¡¯re cooking up.¡±

    Chen Fan said coldly, ¡°We don¡¯t have any other choice. You have to trust me. I cleared the seventh stage of the Nebulous Battle Pce and obtained a treasure to help me achieve a breakthrough.¡±

    ¡°What, you cleared the seventh stage! Heavens!¡±

    Many people were slightly shocked upon hearing Chen Fan¡¯s disclosure.

    Qiu Beihai spoke up once more. ¡°Alright, since you''ve got a treasure, and Xin Wuming here has the highest cultivation among us, why not give him the treasure to aid his breakthrough? Wouldn¡¯t that give us a better chance?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Qiu Beihai has a point. Why don¡¯t you give your treasure to Xin Wuming and help him advance?¡± Many people immediately concurred with his suggestion.

    Xin Wuming also nced over, looking expectant.

    Chen Fan flipped his palm over. A jade altar appeared on it, and he said, ¡°I''d dly offer it if it could help him advance to the Core Formation realm. However, this Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi can¡¯t help him. It¡¯s of no use to him.¡±

    Chen Fan disregarded the consequences and unveiled the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi to everyone.

    The Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi was a miraculous treasure for tempering the flesh. It could not increase a martial artist¡¯s qi cultivation.

    Chen Fan continued, ¡°I practice a body cultivation technique and am just a step away from undergoing a metamorphosis. I¡¯m confident in breaking through after consuming the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. My physique would be strong enough to take on Core Formation realm experts then. Now, I need every one of you to buy me some time. Otherwise, we¡¯ll all die here. It¡¯s up to you to decide!¡±

    ¡°It is a Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi.¡±

    ¡°Too bad it¡¯s not a treasure that can increase qi cultivation.¡±

    No greedy eyes met the sight of the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi in Chen Fan''s hand. After all, they were in a life-and-death crisis. It would be useless even if they snatched it, and death would still be the only oue.

    Disappointment flickered across Xin Wuming''s face.

    Qiu Beihai''s chilly voice pierced the air once again. ¡°Hmph, who''s to say you don''t have more treasures hidden away."

    Chen Fan looked over. A trace of icy killing intent shed in his eyes as he said, ¡°I already told you. If I had a treasure that could boost cultivation, I would¡¯ve brought it out. We all know what situation we¡¯re in. Hiding them serves no purpose. After all, we all will be facing death if we don''t fend off the blood demons. Whatever treasures we hold will be useless.¡±

    Xin Wuming said firmly, ¡°Alright! Since you¡¯re confident, we''ll buy you the time you need to break through!"

    They were in a crisis right now. There was no point in dragging things out. It was better to trust Chen Fan.

    ¡°Alright, then. Since our fate seems sealed, we might as well fight to the end and ce our trust in him."

    ¡°Fine. We have no path of retreat anyway. We might as well try everything we can and believe in him this one time.¡±

    Many people immediately responded positively.

    ¡°Many thanks. Since that is the case, I shan¡¯t waste more time.¡± A stern look shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He directly consumed the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. He sat cross-legged behind the crowd and began refining the medicinal power of the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi.

    Despite the lengthy narrative, in reality, all these events unfolded within a brief span.

    On the other side, Xue Tianheughed coldly when he saw this scene. ¡°Hoho, still thinking of fighting to the death? It¡¯s futile. Today, you¡¯re all destined to die. Next year, this time, your loved ones will be celebrating your death anniversary. Moreover, being buried within the Nebulous Mysterious Realm might not be such a bad fate for you."

    ¡°Make your moves, everyone. Ignite your primeval force or illusory core, whichever you can. Buy him as much time as possible to achieve his breakthrough. We''re cornered, facing certain death if we don''t give it our all. Fighting offers a slim chance of survival. Our cultivation might regress at worst, but we''ll still draw breath. We can always rebuild our cultivation levels. Death, however, leaves no room for such possibilities."

    A terrifying qi wave erupted from Xin Wuming as he ignited his illusory core.

    ¡°Hahahaha, alright, since even Xin Wuming has ignited his illusory core, what do we have to fear? Everyone, ignite your primeval force!¡± A tall and ferocious manughed, then ignited his primeval force. His aura immediately surged, generating a fierce wind.

    ¡°Whatever, a man should die with honor. If we survive, then at least there¡¯s still hope.¡±

    ¡°Primeval force, ignite!¡±

    ¡°Power of illusory core, ignite!¡±

    ording to their cultivation levels, the crowd immediately ignited their primeval force or illusory core. Their auras surged to the sky, stirring the winds and the clouds.

    ¡°A small team will deal with the blood demons. Everyone else, with me. We¡¯ll deal with Xue Tianhe!¡± Xin Wuming shouted. Immediately, the crowd split into two groups.

    ¡°Hoho, that¡¯s interesting, but it¡¯s useless. In front of absolute strength, even sacrificing your lives will be useless,¡± Xue Tianhe said coldly when he saw Xin Wuming and everyone else fighting with their lives on the line.

    Xin Wuming said, ¡°Your words alone don¡¯t decide the future. Get him!¡±

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Another fierce battle began. The wind and clouds rolled, and the stars fell.

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged behind the crowd, fiercely revolving the Myriad Elephants Divine Art as he refined the medicinal efficacy of the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A beam of blinding light fell in the skies above Chen Fan¡¯s dantian.

    A lingzhi swayed gently within it, surrounded by the illusory sight of nine zing suns rising above it.

    ¡°Power of nine suns, refine!¡± Chen Fan shouted fiercely inside. The Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi blew up, transforming into nine masses of zing suns that rushed into Chen Fan.

    Immediately, mes spewed from Chen Fan''s pores, apanied by faint traces of blood mist.

    <i>Chi, chi!</i>

    Chen Fan felt as though he was engulfed in mes, undergoing intense tempering under the influence of the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. Excruciating pain coursed through every nerve.

    Amidst the searing sensation, a refreshing coolness permeated from the essence of the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi.

    In the midst of this refining and nourishing, Chen Fan''s flesh underwent a rapid metamorphosis, emanating a palpable sense of power.

    As minutes and seconds ticked by, Chen Fan''s physique strengthened at an astonishing rate.

    Meanwhile, Xin Wuming and the others¡¯ battle against Xue Tianhe reached a climax.

    Even though Xue Tianhe was invincible, facing Xin Wuming and the others¡ªfueled by their ignited primeval force and illusory core¡ªproved formidable. Though Xue Tianhe managed to suppress them, he couldn''t swiftly defeat them.

    Of course, some people were also killed by his onught.

    Xue Tianhe punched, and Qiu Beihai was sent flying back, spewing blood. Unknowingly, Qiu Beihai''s trajectory aimed directly toward Chen Fan''s location.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A sinister light shed across Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes as he flew backward.

    Just as he was three meters away from Chen Fan, Qiu Beihai suddenly made a move.

    ¡°Go to hell, little bastard!¡±

 Chapter 351 - Divine Strength Realm

    <h4>Chapter 351 - Divine Strength Realm</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying storm ravaged through heaven and earth. Mountains within a five-mile radius of theke crumbled, and trees were obliterated; thendscape now seemed reminiscent of an apocalypse.

    High-level Yuanfu realm martial artists could easily unearth and destroy mountains and even part a sea.

    Xin Wuming and the others had ignited the very core of their power, so the strength they could utilize now was even greater. Every attack from the group carried enormous destructive power.

    And their opponent was none other than Xue Tianhe¡ªa Core Formation realm expert.

    The hurricanes whistled; the qi rampaged. The air exploded everywhere as if someone had set off firecrackers.

    Someone would die from time to time, crying out miserably. They would either be a blood demon killed by the martial artists or one of the martial artists blown into meat paste by Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Xue Tianhe punched, and the space shook. His terrifying strength sent Qiu Beihai flying back.

    A sinister light shed across Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes as he flew backward. Just as he was three meters away from Chen Fan, Qiu Beihai suddenly made a move.

    ¡°Go to hell, little bastard!¡±

    Qiu Beihai unleashed a palm strike aimed at Chen Fan¡¯s skull with great momentum and strength. The palm strike was strong enough to destroy a mountain.

    This sudden turn of events caught Xin Wuming and the others off guard.

    ¡°Qiu Beihai, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Qiu Beihai, you deserve to die!¡±

    In the face of Qiu Beihai¡¯s betrayal, Xin Wuming and the others couldn¡¯t help but feel enraged. They wanted to pull back from the fight and stop Qiu Beihai.

    Chen Fan was emanating a powerful oppressive force. This sense of oppression was about as suffocating as the pressure from Xue Tianhe; the crowd now had a sliver of hope.

    Chen Fan¡¯s words suddenly gained more credibility. They believed that he could really fight Xue Tianhe if he could break through.

    He was at the most crucial moment, but Qiu Beihai had suddenly attacked him. That was no different from dashing their hopes of survival.

    ¡°Xue Tianhe, don¡¯t forget our deal. I¡¯ll cripple him, and you¡¯ll let me go in return!¡± Qiu Beihai roared, his attack bing even more ruthless.

    Unbeknownst to the crowd battling Xue Tianhe, Qiu Beihai had secretlymunicated with him via primeval force transmission. He was willing to cripple Chen Fan in exchange for his own freedom.

    As for Xin Wuming and the others¡¯ life or death, it had nothing to do with him!

    ¡°Haha, rest assured. I am a man of my word. Since I promised you, naturally, I¡¯ll uphold my end.¡± Xue Tianheughed out loud. His aura grew even fiercer, holding back Xin Wuming and the others.

    His perception was even sharper than that of Xin Wuming and the others, so he could see the immense power within Chen Fan better than anyone else.

    This power made even him feel apprehensive.

    It was no wonder Chen Fan¡¯s vitality was so robust. It turned out that he practiced a very extraordinary body cultivation technique. Xue Tianhe would probably lose if he allowed Chen Fan to make this breakthrough.

    Xue Tianhe did not want to see that happen.

    Since Xin Wuming and the others were doing all they could to keep Xue Tianhe back and buy Chen Fan time, he couldn¡¯t make a move against Chen Fan. Thus, when Qiu Beihai sent him a voice transmission, he immediately agreed.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Qiu Beihai, you bastard, you deserve to die a thousand deaths for your sins!¡± Xin Wuming cursed out loud, his face twisted in anger. Xue Tianhe was holding them back, so they also couldn¡¯t help Chen Fan.

    Even on the other side, the dozen or so blood demons were doing all they could to restrain the smaller group of martial artists. They could only watch as Qiu Beihai¡¯s palm strike flew toward Chen Fan¡¯s skull.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Xin Wuming, curse as much as you guys want. You¡¯re all going to die anyway. None of you are making it out.¡± Qiu Beihaiughed wildly. When his palm was about tond on Chen Fan¡¯s head, hisughter abruptly stopped.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Qiu Beihai¡¯s eyes narrowed.

    Chen Fan had kept his eyes closed until now, refining the Nine Sun Divine Lingzhi. Suddenly, he opened his eyes, shooting out two streaks of light as sharp as swords. He raised his arm and grabbed Qiu Beihai¡¯s palm.

    ¡°Die!¡± Qiu Beihai''s expression was hideous. His cultivation shook, trying to shatter Chen Fan¡¯s hand.

    However, Chen Fan did not move in the slightest.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Qiu Beihai was a little overwhelmed with shock.

    Chen Fan spat out icily, ¡°You deserve to die!¡±

    A terrifying wind swept out from Chen Fan, shing against Qiu Beihai''s face like a de, inflicting stinging pain.

    Confronted by Chen Fan''s emotionless stare, terror flickered in Qiu Beihai''s eyes.

    ¡°You go to hell!¡± Qiu Beihai ignited his illusory core without any hesitation. He clenched his other hand into a fist and punched Chen Fan¡¯s chest as fast as thunder.

    ¡°Open!¡± Chen Fan roared. As if a gate had opened inside him, his aura erupted wildly, and he also countered with a punch.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air directly exploded, producing a furious roar. A white qi current appeared, colliding with Qiu Beihai¡¯s fist.

    <i>Crack! Crack! Crack!</i>

    As soon as the two fists made contact, the bones in Qiu Beihai¡¯s arm shattered like tofu.

    ¡°Your death will warrant no pity!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice rang out again. The momentum of Chen Fan¡¯s punch did not weaken, and it mmed into his stomach under Qiu Beihai¡¯s horrified gaze.

    Qiu Beihai froze in an instant.

    He felt like a small boat sailing on a choppy sea. Suddenly, a towering wave appeared¡ªthe kind that shadowed the sky¡ªto swallow him.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    A might akin to that of a mountain flood wreaked havoc inside Qiu Beihai, causing his organs to bleed and all his bones to shatter.

    Ultimately, he failed to withstand this terrifying strength and directly blew up, turning into a mist of blood, leaving nothing behind.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan roared to the sky, his voice like thunder. ¡°Roar!¡±

    The space trembled as the sound wave spread, and more cracks appeared in the mysterious realm.

    A terrifying power surged within Chen Fan, coursing through his skeleton and limbs, inducing an overwhelming sense offort and urging him to unleash another roar.

    The resonance of Chen Fan''s roar caused the qi and blood of those with lower cultivation levels, be they blood demons or orthodox martial artists, to stir violently, resulting in them spewing fresh blood.

    <i>Pfft, pfft, pfft!</i>

    ¡°Haha, good, good, good!¡±

    Xin Wuming and the others beamed with delight. Qiu Beihai¡¯s sneak attack had failed, and Chen Fan had also made a breakthrough in his physique.

    They all could feel the enormous sense of oppressioning from Chen Fan¡¯s physique. It was like a furnace ready to unleash devastating strength with the slightest tremor, capable of shattering heaven and earth.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Chen Fan stomped on the ground, cracking it open as he rose into the sky. He threw out a punch at Xue Tianhe from the air.

    The terrifying force from his fist was like a dragon, crushing the air, charging across the sky, aiming to shred Xue Tianhe into pieces.

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s expression stiffened. Bloody light erupted from him as he waved his arm, condensing into a blood-colored shield.

    The force mmed into the blood-colored shield, producing a loud boom and a storm that swept through heaven and earth.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fannded before Xin Wuming and the others. ¡°You guys go kill the other blood demons. Leave Xue Tianhe to me!¡±

 Chapter 352 - Fierce Battle Against Xue Tianhe

    <h4>Chapter 352 - Fierce Battle Against Xue Tianhe</h4>

    Chen Fan pushed Xue Tianhe back with one punch and appeared before Xin Wuming and the others. His aura boiled like a mountain or a sea, making their hearts tremble.

    ¡°You want to take him on alone? Are you sure?¡± Xin Wuming asked, his eyes flickering.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If things get dicey, you guys can lend a hand. You go deal with those blood demons first.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Xin Wuming nodded, seeing Chen Fan¡¯s resolute attitude. He led the others and charged toward the dozen or so blood demons.

    Xue Tianhe did not stop them. Even if he wanted to, Chen Fan presented too formidable a challenge to act recklessly against.

    Chen Fan¡¯s current strength was evident, judging from how he managed to push Xue Tianhe back with a punch through the air.

    ¡°Hoho, how truly unexpected. You really broke through.¡± Xue Tianhe stepped forward in the air. A dangerous light shed in his eyes as he stared at Chen Fan like a venomous snake.

    ¡°Your body cultivation technique must be really extraordinary. No wonder your vitality is so strong. But that works for me, too. The stronger your vitality is, the faster my cultivation will rise with your fresh blood,¡± Xue Tianhe dered with self-serving intent, his aura rising to form an imposing pressure aimed at Chen Fan.

    Facing Xue Tianhe¡¯s pressure, Chen Fan remained as steadfast as a reef on the ocean floor, unperturbed by the howling currents and crashing waves. Not even his eyelids twitched; hepletely ignored it.

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s pupils shrunk slightly at the sight. It might seem like a petty trick, but he had intensified his aura and strengthened his pressure to probe Chen Fan¡¯s strength.

    Although his cultivation was strong and his talent was extraordinary, Xue Tianhe was well aware of his limits. He was a prudent and cautious person.

    He wouldn¡¯t have acted this way had Chen Fan not made his breakthrough; now, Xue Tianhe felt a sense of danger. Thus, he became cautious.

    In this world, countless experts had died an unexpected death. All those people share one trait¡ªblind arrogance. They looked down on everything until they could only look up at the sky.

    ¡°Do you believe a breakthrough in body cultivation can change your fate? It¡¯s useless. Your breakthrough may have offered them a glimmer of hope, but the higher their expectations, the deeper their despair when I capture you. I love it when people plummet from the clouds to the abyss."

    A noise that resembled ghosts wailing came from inside Xue Tianhe.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Whirlwinds erupted around Xue Tianhe, tearing through space as he exuded immense pressure.

    ¡°Blood Sea Flips the Heaven!¡±

    A formidable sea of blood surged toward Chen Fan with rming speed, resembling a bloodthirsty devil eager to feast on him.

    Chen Fan remained indifferent, steady as a mountain, and unleashed a punch.

    <i>Boom chi!</i>

    The punch annihted the rushing sea of blood. The sea vanished like smoke in thin air.

    <i>Thump!</i> Chen Fan stomped on the air and shot forth like an arrow, leaving a trail of white qi in his wake as he charged toward Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°Xue Tianhe, today will be yourst day!¡±

    ¡°Bold words.¡± Xue Tianhe was slightly angered. He also flew toward Chen Fan and collided with him.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump...</i>

    Chen Fan and Xue Tianhe intertwined in the air, unleashing terrifying qi fluctuations that rippled through the surroundings, causing the air to tremble violently.

    A crushing force radiated outward, leaving devastation as it swept across thend, shaking the earth and toppling mountains.

    The two fought from the air to the ground, then fought from the ground to the mountains.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A mountain crumbled from their fight. Many boulders the size of houses flew into the air and transformed into dust clouds.

    Meanwhile, with Xin Wuming and the others joining the other fight, the dozen or so ordinary blood demons died one after another under the crowd¡¯s siege. It was useless even when the blood demons ignited their primeval force and illusory core¡ªthey were blown to bits all the same.

    After all, these blood demons weren¡¯t like Xue Tianhe. Surrounded and attacked by Xin Wuming and over a hundred other martial artists, they werepletely powerless to resist.

    After getting rid of the other blood demons, Xin Wuming and the others directed their gazes toward the two fighting in the air, looking horrified.

    ¡°What a terrifying sh.¡±

    Bloody light surged around Xue Tianhe. His aura was unfathomably deep, like an abyss.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan moved with the force of ten thousand charging horses, his every movement unleashing a terrifying power that rent the air and shattered the stars. shing against Xue Tianhe, he didn¡¯t fall into a disadvantaged position at all.

    ¡°How scary. What kind of body cultivation technique does he practice? His strength is like an ancient ferocious beast, shattering the stars.¡±

    ¡°Regardless of his body cultivation technique, our effort wasn¡¯t in vain. He really did it. He can resist Xue Tianhe with his physical strength. We survived.¡±

    ¡°Right, we made it out alive.¡±

    ¡°Hopefully, he will kill Xue Tianhe. Otherwise, given the cultivation speed of blood demons, Xue Tianhe will be a huge threat in the future.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Xin Wuming and the othersmented, feeling as if they had returned from a trip to the gates of hell.

    The air reverberated with waves of noises as if the very fabric of heaven and earth was being torn asunder. The endless space was like ss, showing cracks everywhere.

    Xin Wuming and the others saw the two tall figures in that thin air trying to kill each other, going back and forth. Every move of theirs contained earth-shaking, unfathomable profundity. Their auras could sweep away the entire earth.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The two figures burst forth from the maelstrom of destruction high above. Their overwhelming auras caused the heavens and earth to quiver, the stars to tremble, and the sun and moon to pale inparison.

    Xue Tianhe was wielding a blood-colored halberd, its form entwined with vengeful spirits whose mournful cries echoed from the depths of the underworld. Adorning his back was a blood-red cloak adorned with sinister patterns, each representing a blood demon baring its fangs, like the g of the nation of darkness.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan wielded an iron spear with fluid grace, each thrust seeming to pierce through the fabric of time and space. The surrounding qi transformed into thousands of raging dragons, consuming vast swathes of air and reducing them to nothingness.

    Their auras, deep as the abyss and boundless as the sea, shed with the force of two titans. Their exchange of moves caused heaven to fall and the earth to rend, bursting with radiant light.

    ¡°To be able to fight a Core Formation realm expert.... Incredible! I never imagined your physical prowess would soar to such heights after your breakthrough. I¡¯ve underestimated you.¡±

    Sweeping out with his blood-colored halberd, he summoned forth a dense cloud of blood qi, shrouding himself in a thick mist of crimson. Simultaneously, he shook, and it seemed like countless space-time fractures had materialized behind him.

    Each crack resembled a colossal demonic eye, from which crimson light beams erupted, hurtling toward Chen Fan.

 Chapter 353 - Unparalleled Godâ€™s Strength

    <h4>Chapter 353 - Unparalleled God¡¯s Strength</h4>

    As if he had already formted a n, Chen Fan fearlessly stood as the crimson lights darted from all directions.

    He resembled an emperor surveying his conquered domain, his gaze fixed on Xue Tianhe. He felt a tingle of excitement as he watched the blood dragons, an amalgamation of the crimson lights, speed toward him. Finally, he countered with the Undefeated King''s Fist.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Six arms struck out fiercely, breaking through the air. Each punch could shift mountains and rivers and leave the space shaking. They smashed into the oing dragons and reduced them to smithereens.

    The guardian elder in the battle pce had told him that in the Divine Strength realm, his physique would be strong enough for him to fight Core Formation realm experts.

    The short exchange of moves with Xue Tianhe had proved that those words were a fact.

    His qi cultivation wasn¡¯t as boundless as Xue Tianhe, but his physical strength was unparalleled. Faced with Xue Tianhe¡¯s power of golden core and ferocious attacks, he could keep himself from falling into a disadvantage.

    ¡°Impressive, truly impressive!¡±

    ¡°We made the right call this time. To shake up a Core Formation realm expert with pure physical strength... Unbelievable! This guy really became a monster after his breakthrough.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I thought he was exaggerating, but looking back at it now, he was just confident.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Xin Wuming and the others have already killed the dozen or so ordinary blood demons. So, they were all watching the battle, regretting ever doubting him.

    They did not go forth to help Chen Fan because the resultant ripples from their exchange could severely injure even someone at the ninth level. They simply were not capable of giving him a helping hand.

    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s tend to our injuries first,¡± Xin Wuming said, sitting cross-legged. He took out a Recovery Elixir and swallowed it.

    In this battle, they had almost died.

    To buy time for Chen Fan, they had all ignited their primeval force or their illusory core, undoing years of bitter cultivation. Still, they didn¡¯t regret it.

    After all, the power they achieved from years of cultivation was not worth mentioningpared to their lives.

    They could always rebuild their strength through diligent cultivation as long as they survived. But if they died, all was truly lost.

    ¡°I¡¯ve truly underestimated you, damn it. I should have killed you at the Foggy Swamp. My foolish hesitation allowed you to grow to this extent. Damn it!¡±

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s expression was horrid. Back when they were in the Foggy Swamp, although Chen Fan still hadn¡¯t been that weak, he was only prey in Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes.

    Yet, due to this fatal miscalction, Chen Fan seized the opportunity to escape. In such a short period, Chen Fan had grown to a level where he was as strong as Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°No amount of words will change the fact that you''ll die here today,"

    Chen Fan neutralized Xue Tianhe¡¯s attack with his spear and stabbed it out simultaneously. It rushed through space as fast as lightning.

    ¡°What boastful words.¡± Xue Tianhe was furious. He retorted, ¡°That should be my line to you. So what if your physique is stronger now? Your fate won¡¯t change! This time, I won''t repeat the same mistake. I will ensure your death!"

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Their movements seemed to defy time itself, shattering thews of nature.

    One wielded a blood-colored halberd, while the other held an ancient, simple-looking iron spear.

    Their sheer force from their exchanges tore through space, painting an apocalyptic scene of crumbling skies and splitting earth, sending terror coursing through the onlookers.

    The sky turned gray, and chaos engulfed the entire five-mile radius. The primeval qi in heaven and earth was chaotic beyond recognition. It stormed everywhere, causing explosions in the area.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was not in the Core Formation or Illusory Core realm, his flesh contained godly strength. His punch could shake heaven and earth, and a kick could shatter mountains.

    The power they wielded had turned the natural order on its head. The sun and moon paled, and the stars seemed to dim.

    ¡°Kid, go to hell!¡± Xue Tianhe was enraged. His primeval force surged, and he infused it into the blood-colored halberd in his hands.

    Immediately, bloody light rushed out from his halberd like sharp des, ripping through space.

    He swung his arm, and his halberd shed. The blood-colored, sharp light immediately spread in all directions. It seemed like the god of war had emerged from the Corpse Mountain Blood Sea wielding a giant halberd and was killing its way toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Blood Ocean Halberd!¡±

    Heaven and earth changed colors at once. The space turned crimson, like an ocean of blood.

    Xin Wuming and the others were tending to their injuries about ten miles out. Yet, even they felt how terrifying this halberd of Xue Tianhe was. Their eyes narrowed, and they paused their movements, their minds shaken. They sensed a disastrous power about to descend upon them.

    ¡°What a terrifying attack!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank slightly, feeling a sense of danger in his heart.

    Yet, fear did not appear in his eyes; instead, they hardened with resolve. Behind him, an illusory space-time materialized, revealing ancient wild elephants thundering forth.

    ¡°Devastating Thrust!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was incredibly sharp. He focused solely on utilizing the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. His qi and blood surged like an unrelenting waterfall, showcasing an extraordinary spectacle.

    Inside him, his flesh and blood gave birth to endless strength and converged together like giant elephants galloping, causing his tendons and bones to cry out in unison.

    Following a loud shout, Chen Fan thrust his spear.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    In the blink of an eye, their attack collided.

    Brilliant light flooded the surroundings as ferocious whirlwinds tore through the air, engulfing the five-mile radius in a maelstrom of chaos and explosive sts.

    Terrifying forces dispersed in all directions, rending the fabric of space. A fierce wind blew out from the pitch-ck space,shing against Chen Fan and Xue Tianhe and generating sparks and metallic ngs. Xin Wuming and the others shuddered in shock at the sight.

    The fierce wind in that pitch-ck space carried terrifying cutting strength. Even Illusory Core realm experts would be ripped to shreds if they encountered it.

    However, Chen Fan and Xue Tianhe ignored the wind.

    Chen Fan forcibly resisted it with his tough physique, while the protective primeval force around Xue Tianhe was powerful enough that the fierce wind couldn¡¯t break through it.

    Waves of bloody light flickered in Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes.

    In his heart, he felt increasingly gloomy.

    The toughness of Chen Fan¡¯s physique far exceeded his imagination.

    Chen Fan looked at Xue Tianhe coldly and said indifferently, ¡°Xue Tianhe, today, only death awaits you. Although we¡¯re equally matched right now, how long can your golden core support you? As long as you cannot pierce my flesh, my strength will be endless. I can easily exhaust you to your death.¡±

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s eyes flickered. He took a deep breath and said, ¡°Fine. Since that is the case, I¡¯ll just cut into you!¡±

    ¡°Blood God Halberd, Conquers the Land!¡±

    Xue Tianhe grew taller. He swung his arm. A blood-colored light shed in space, and in the next moment, he appeared in front of Chen Fan.

    A terrifying force descended, suppressing Chen Fan as he tried to kill him in one strike.

    Chen Fan¡¯s body shook. Ten thousand elephants cried out in unison.

    ¡°Unparalleled God¡¯s Strength!¡±

    He simply stabbed out with his spear.

 Chapter 354 - Xue Tianheâ€™s Death

    <h4>Chapter 354 - Xue Tianhe¡¯s Death</h4>

    ¡°Unparalleled God¡¯s Strength!¡±

    Chen Fan attacked with his spear, and the iron spear emitted dense spatial ripples. The sight could make one¡¯s scalp tingle.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Huge, earth-shaking explosions rang out, and a terrifying storm scraped away three feet of earth, creating meandering cracks that spread outward.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The spear neutralized Xue Tianhe¡¯s attack. The overwhelming power surged through space, crashing into Xue Tianhe and triggering explosions as it struck his protective primeval force. He staggered backward, blood trickling from the corners of his mouth.

    Xue Tianhe regained hisposure, his eyes reflecting astonishment. "How is this possible?"

    Xin Wuming and the others were equally stunned. Their mouths gaped wide, and their eyes trembled with disbelief.

    Xue Tianhe had felt like the god of the underworld had emerged from hell to reap the crowd¡¯s life, causing even their souls to tremble.

    They fretted over whether Chen Fan could withstand it. To their surprise, he effortlessly neutralized the attack with a simple thrust, the ensuing ripples even injuring Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible!¡± Chen Fan stood proudly with his spear in hand, his expression indifferent.

    ¡°Did you think being a Core Formation realm expert makes you invincible? We are mere ants before you? Too na?ve. The word ¡®daydreams¡¯ specifically refers to your thoughts.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s physique was so tough that he could kill a Core Formation realm expert with his bare hands, not to mention that the power in that spear attack earlier was like a mountain flood surging and gushing.

    What was the Divine Strength realm?

    To wield divine strength was to be invincible!

    ¡°Now, what was it that you said? You demonic beings take pleasure in killing others and consuming their blood. Countless people have fallen victim to you. Today, there¡¯s no way I can allow you to live on. I will kill you and return peace to the world.¡±

    A sharp qi rose from Chen Fan and rushed into the air. His aura grew a little stronger.

    ¡°They are nothing but ants. So what if I killed them? It''s their fortune to contribute to my cultivation. Let alone those ants, even you are not different in my eyes.

    ¡°Do you truly believe you pose a threat to me? You underestimate the power of the Core Formation realm. Fighting me with mere physical strength isughable. You''re nothing but a joke. I had hoped to avoid using this technique, but it seems you''ll pose a future threat to our holy cult if I spare you today!¡± said Xue Tianhe as his aura also grew ferocious and stronger.

    A mournful wind echoed through the heavens and earth, chilling wails filling the air.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Around Xue Tianhe, gusts of frigid wind manifested like vengeful spirits, swirling incessantly.

    He looked at Chen Fan coldly and said, ¡°Take pride in meeting your end under my Extermination Divine Halberd! Go to hell!¡±

    The blood-colored halberd in his hand cleaved through the sky, conjuring numerous silhouettes.

    All the silhouettes were like a blood dragon slumbering in the depths of time and space, awakened by Xue Tianhe. Not only that, swathes of space-time were thoroughly ripped open.

    Carrying an unrivaled shocking aura, Xue Tianhe darted forward. Even gods and spirits began to gather under his halberd.

    A peerless strike from the halberd.

    Extermination Divine Halberd.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Xin Wuming and the others¡¯ expressions changed drastically.

    They all sensed the sheer terror behind Xue Tianhe''s halberd strike. It seemed to envelop heaven and earth, sealing all life within its grasp.

    Nothing could stop this halberd. Everything would be annihted.

    Feeling it more acutely than anyone, Chen Fan''s pupils constricted as the specter of death loomed over him.

    He didn¡¯t make a move, however. The iron spear in his hand trembled non-stop as he gathered his strength.

    Facing Xue Tianhe¡¯s Extermination Divine Halberd, which locked down heaven and earth, sealing all avenues of escape, evasion was futile. Chen Fan understood that he couldn''t evade this attack no matter where he hid.

    Since he could not avoid it, his sole recourse was to stand his ground and fight.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly as the wind, brought forth by the halberd''s might,shed against him, leaving his cheeks tingling like des scraping against his skin.

    <i>C, c!</i>

    This fierce windpletely ripped apart his clothing.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan moved.

    The umtion of his strength reached its peak. With a seemingly harmless arc, he thrust his spear through the air.

    The trajectory of his attack was typical, but it contained traces of the Great Dao. The attack was fatal. It streaked across the air like a meteor, illuminating the dark universe with its light and heat.

    The iron spear collided with the halberd instantly, unleashing a burst of light that engulfed the surrounding five miles.

    Within the light, it seemed like Xue Tianhe¡¯s halberd could cleave heaven and earth. However, Chen Fan¡¯s spear surged forth with iprehensible force, melding the divided halves back together.

    Intense explosion noises rang out rapidly.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Xin Wuming and the others quickly retreated. However, their gazes remained fixated on that mass of light; they refused to avert their gaze, unwilling to miss a moment of the fight.

    The light faded.

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s halberd struck Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder. The wound was deep enough to reveal his bones. However, Chen Fan¡¯s spear was also deep inside Xue Tianhe¡¯s chest. They had pierced through one another¡¯s flesh.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The two of them moved at the same time. Theirbined force exacerbated their injuries as they flew backward, blood staining the air.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Chen Fan stomped on the air and steadied himself. He nced at his left shoulder and saw that his tendons had snapped and his bones were broken.

    Had he not evaded just barely earlier, Xue Tianhe''s halberd would have cracked his skull open. Even so, Chen Fan was severely injured; he couldn¡¯t move his left arm now.

    Of course, Xue Tianhe wasn¡¯t faring any better than him. It could even be said that he was in a worse situation.

    Chen Fan¡¯s spear had been aimed straight at Xue Tianhe¡¯s heart. Thetter twisted at the crucial moment and narrowly avoided the worst situation. However, the tremendous force from the iron spear shocked his heart, leaving it with cracks.

    Xue Tianhe¡¯s primeval force rapidly weakened. A look of horror shed across his eyes. He quickly moved, thinking of running away.

    To his dismay, despite unleashing his strongest technique, he had failed to kill Chen Fan and now found himself grievously wounded.

    Chen Fan immediately made a move, thrusting his spear ferociously. ¡°Thinking of running?¡±

    Xin Wuming and the others no longer cared about their injuries. They quickly flew over,unching attacks at Xue Tianhe.

    They couldn¡¯t let Xue Tianhe escape!

    Now that Xue Tianhe was severely injured and greatly weakened, it was a great opportunity for them to surround and attack him together to kill him.

    Besieged by Chen Fan and his allies, Xue Tianhe staggered, repeatedly coughing up blood and struggling to maintain his footing. ¡°Damn it, you people really want to fight me to the death, huh?¡±

    The aura of death slowly crept upon him.

    Chen Fan and the others did not bother with words and attacked Xue Tianhe with all their might.

    ¡°Damn it, since that¡¯s the case, let¡¯s all die together!¡±

    Xue Tianhe found himself trapped. If Chen Fan hadn¡¯t been here, it would have been easy for him to escape.

    However, Chen Fan could stall Xue Tianhe even though they were both severely injured, while Xin Wuming and the others attacked him like madmen. Xue Tianhe could see the grim reaper approaching him.

    Xin Wuming and the others immediately sensed the devastating auraing from Xue Tianhe.

    ¡°Not good, he¡¯s going to self-destruct!¡±

    He realized there was no way he could escape. If the siege continued, he was sure to die. So, he decided to self-destruct.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression also changed drastically.

    Even if he would survive the self-detonation of a Core Formation realm expert, he would note out of it unscathed.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Immediately, Chen Fan hurled the iron spear along with a terrifying rotation force at Xue Tianhe. Simultaneously, he unfurled the Wings of Rain Dragon and retreated hastily.

    Xin Wuming and the others had also made their retreat.

    A blood-red mushroom cloud billowed skyward as a deafening st rent the air.

    A terrifying shockwave spread out. The st annihted those who were slow in retreating before they could even let out a scream.

    Even Xin Wuming and the other prodigies felt like an ancient divine mountain had crashed upon them despite their frantic efforts to put up their protective primeval qi. They coughed up blood and were sent hurtling backward like birds with broken wings.

    ¡°Pfft!¡±

    Even though Chen Fan was fast, he was also caught up in the impact. He staggered mid-air, blood gushing from his mouth, hisplexion drained of color.

 Chapter 355 - Returning to the Great Chu Empire

    <h4>Chapter 355 - Returning to the Great Chu Empire</h4>

    <i>Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    The wild winds swept across, enveloping both the sky and the earth. Veins of qi streaked through the heavens, whipping thend into submission. The entire terrainy devastated in its wake.

    The self-detonation of Xue Tianhe, a Core Formation realm expert, unleashed a terrifying wave of power.

    About twenty to thirty experts at the seventh and the eighth levels fell victim to it and died.

    Experts like Chen Fan and Xin Wuming also struggled after being caught in the shockwaves. Their organs suffered severe damage, resulting in severe hemorrhage.

    At the st''s epicenter, space convulsed, giving birth to a colossal ck hole that consumed everything in its path, resembling a gaping maw that left no trace of those unfortunate enough to be drawn into it.

    The Nebulous Mysterious Realm¡¯s space could not withstand Xue Tianhe¡¯s self-detonation and had shattered.

    Chen Fannded on a small hill with a paleplexion, his expression dark.

    Although Xue Tianhe had self-detonated and died, Chen Fan suffered heavy injuries in this battle, narrowly avoiding the severing of his left arm. The self-detonation¡¯s shockwaves also inflicted severe internal injuries upon him.

    He took out a bottle of Recovery Elixirs and ate them like candies.

    A somber silence hung over the area as the survivors focused on using their cultivation to mend their wounds.

    Time went by quickly. Three days passed in the blink of an eye.

    Chen Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a mouthful of turbid air.

    ¡°Phew.¡±

    He looked at his left arm. A light shed across his eyes.

    After three days of recovery, he nearly recovered from his injuries. However, his left arm, shed by Xue Tianhe¡¯s halberd, had only recovered by twenty to thirty percent.

    That attack carried a peculiar force akin to a stubborn maggot clinging to his bones, impeding the healing process. Even though Chen Fan used the Heaven Seizing Furnace to suppress and refine it, his left arm remained stubbornly unhealed.

    Shaking his head, Chen Fan stood up and nced around him.

    Although his injuries were very severe, he had recast his body with a dragon¡¯s blood, so his recovery speed was freakishly fast. Aside from his left shoulder, his other injuries had mostly healed.

    The others, however, hadn''t fared as well and were still recuperating, their auras fluctuating.

    Chen Fan looked ahead. After three days, the nearly thousand-meter-long rift in space had now sealed itself.

    However, the scars of the recent battle still marred the earth, a grim reminder of its intensity.

    Chen Fan slowly flew forward. With a flick of his hand, a streak of primeval force rolled up Xue Tianhe¡¯s blood-colored halberd and his iron spear, and he left this ce.

    As Chen Fan walked, his eyes flickered. ¡°Although this trip to the Nebulous Mysterious Realm resulted in me suffering heavy injuries, my harvest is extremely great.¡±

    When he first entered the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, he was only at the seventh level; one monthter, he was now at the ninth level.

    More importantly, his physique had broken through to the Divine Strength realm, allowing him to fight against a Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°Although it¡¯s still difficult for me to kill a Core Formation realm expert given my current strength, I no longer have to fear for my life when facing a first-level Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°I still have more than a year left. After I return, I''ll take some time to build my strength before trying to advance to the Core Formation realm!¡± A stern look flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    There was still more than a year left in his three-year agreement with Duan Jingtian. It was slowly but surely approaching.

    In the past year or so, he had cultivated from a Qi Grandmaster to the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm. His cultivation speed was as fast as a rocket. If he told others about it, the news would cause everyone¡¯s jaws to drop.

    However, only Chen Fan knew how much sweat he had poured out to grow to this extent quickly.

    Every step of his cultivation journey had been hard-won, earned through countless life-and-death struggles.

    Take the journey into the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, for example. Facing Xue Tianhe or anyone else, every encounter had been a fight to the death.

    Fortunately, his endeavors yielded ample rewards, with the Core Formation realm now tantalizingly close.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, you still have no idea that my cultivation has catapulted from the Qi Grandmaster realm.¡± A cold satisfaction gleamed in Chen Fan''s eyes.

    The memory of his humiliation at the hands of Duan Jingtian on Dragon Mountain Peak fueled Chen Fan''s determination, a constant reminder driving him forward.

    ¡°Now, it¡¯s time to leave.¡±

    A light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He sped up, flying toward the exit of the Nebulous Mysterious Realm.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    About half a dayter, Chen Fan arrived near the exit.

    An illusory portal stood in the air, shing brightly.

    Chen Fan charged into the portal. After a bout of dizziness, he appeared in the Stormy ins again.

    Surveying the surroundings, he noticed that many of the gathered individuals had departed, but around a thousand still lingered.

    Many of them were elders of various sects. They were all waiting for the disciples of their respective sects toe out from the Nebulous Mysterious Realm.

    ¡°Hmm, look, someone hase out!¡±

    ¡°I wonder which sect¡¯s disciple he is?¡±

    ¡°Judging from his appearance, he probably came out because of his heavy injuries.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The arrival of Chen Fan immediately drew everyone''s attention, sparking murmurs and discussions among the crowd.

    Curious, a white-bearded elder from the Cloud Heaven Pce asked, ¡°Kid, what¡¯s the situation like inside?¡±

    Chen Fan met the elder''s gaze squarely, his expression unwavering. ¡°Reporting to Senior, blood demons have sneaked into the mysterious realm, causing us of the righteous path to suffer heavy casualties. Having suffered heavy injuries, I dared not remain in the mysterious realm and exited.¡±

    ¡°What? Blood demons have sneaked into the mysterious realm?! Damn it!¡±

    Immediately, some sect elders¡¯ auras surged uncontrobly.

    Chen Fan did not stay there any longer. He flew into the distance, quickly disappearing into the horizon.

    He did not stop on the way as he quickly flew toward the Great Chu Empire.

    The destiny of the Stormy ins upon Xin Wuming and the others'' emergence was of no concern to him.

    On his way back to the Great Chu Empire, Chen Fan¡¯s mind wasn¡¯t rxed. He kept pondering and trying toprehend the Great Brahma Sacred Palm.

    That was the additional reward the guardian elder had given him. It was a middle-earth tier martial art¡ªa level higher than even the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    Through repeated contemtion and practice, Chen Fan gradually delved deeper into the intricacies of the technique, drawing from his experience inbat with the guardian elder.

    Not content with just that, he also dedicated himself to honing the Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes. By merging it with the insights he gained from his ownprehension of the Devastating Thrust, he managed to enhance the technique''s power by a significant margin.

    A monthter, Chen Fan gradually drew closer to the Great Chu Empire as he flew.

    ¡°I wonder how the n is doing now? I should first go back to the n and check on its situation before returning to the sect and trying to break through to the Core Formation realm to be a holy disciple.

    ¡°I do not need to conceal my cultivation level any longer. Once I am promoted to a holy disciple, not even Duan Jingtian can easily make a move against me...¡±

    As Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, he arrived at the borders of the Great Chu Empire. After confirming the direction, he quickly flew toward Watermoon City.

 Chapter 356 - Making Inventory of His Harvest

    <h4>Chapter 356 - Making Inventory of His Harvest</h4>

    Yangzhou City, Yangzhou Inn:

    After a month of travel, Chen Fan''s left shoulder injury had mostly healed, and he was now in prime condition.

    In a rented inn room, Chen Fan sorted through the treasures he had acquired from the Nebulous Mysterious Realm: two earth tier martial skills¡ªNorthern Star Reaper Hand and Great Brahma Sacred Palm.

    He had already learned the Northern Star Reaper Hand, havingprehended the concept of reaping lives. With his current cultivation, he could execute it several times with considerable power.

    As for the Great Brahma Sacred Palm, although he studied it carefully during the journey back and had gained some insights, he had yet to fully delve into itsplexities.

    After all, the Great Brahma Sacred Palm was a middle-earth tier martial skill. It presented a formidable challenge.

    However, Chen Fan wasn''t in a hurry.

    Even with his limited understanding and practice, the Great Brahma Sacred Palm demanded significantly more primeval force than the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    ording to Chen Fan¡¯s estimations, it was likely that he could only seed in practicing the martial skill after advancing into the Core Formation realm. Therefore, he was not in a rush for now.

    Aside from the two earth tier martial skills, Chen Fan also obtained several profound tier martial skills, ranging between upper, middle, and lower.

    Except for Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes¡ªobtained from clearing the stages of the Nebulous Battle Pce¡ªhe got the other profound tier skills from the corpses of those he had killed.

    Given Chen Fan¡¯s current needs, he did not have any use for them. So, he nned on giving his nsmen the martial skills to practice.

    In addition to martial arts, there were treasures like the iron spear and the blood-colored halberd, both Grade-4 treasures that were rare even throughout the vast Great Chu Empire.

    Chen Fan intended to wield the iron spear himself, but he decided to contribute the blood-colored halberd to the n to enhance its foundation and strength.

    Aside from these, there were also plenty of spiritual stones, elixirs, natural treasures, and more.

    Overall, his trip into the Nebulous Mysterious Realm was very bountiful.

    He categorized the items ordingly, keeping those he could use in one storage ring and setting aside those for the n in another.

    ¡°The next matter on the agenda is to advance to the Core Formation realm. Only then will I truly be recognized as a top-tier expert in the Great Chu Empire. At that point, even Duan Jingtian would need to reconsider his moves against me.

    ¡°Ahh... but I couldn¡¯t condense nine illusory cores. And if I advance to the Core Formation realm without additional illusory cores, mybat strength would not be multiplied.¡± Chen Fan sighed to himself.

    Chen Fan could skip two levels and sometimes even three because he cultivated the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art. When he skipped three levels, although he couldn¡¯t win, at least his opponent couldn¡¯t kill him.

    He currently had seven illusory primeval vessels in his dantian. Complete mastery of the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art meant condensing nine illusory primeval vessels: he was short two.

    Once he advanced into the Core Formation realm, the nine illusory primeval vessels would provide minimal help.

    ¡°Forget it. I¡¯m not thinking about these things for now. I¡¯d better use my time and cultivate the final two illusory primeval vessels first.¡±

    Shaking his head, Chen Fan sat down cross-legged and began cultivating.

    His physique experienced a qualitative leap after entering the Divine Strength realm. He could fight squarely against a first-level Core Formation realm expert, relying on his physical strength alone.

    Although the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art had very high requirements for the martial artist¡¯s physique, having reached the Divine Strength realm, Chen Fan could cultivate without any obstacles.

    The night went by silently.

    Early the next morning, Chen Fan opened his eyes, radiating with a brilliant light.

    After a night of practice, Chen Fan condensed the final two illusory primeval vessels. He had practiced the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art toplete mastery.

    ¡°Given my powerful physique and my qi cultivation, I can now overwhelm a middle orte-stage first-level Core Formation realm expert.¡±

    A sharp aura surged from Chen Fan.

    ......

    Great Chu Empire, the imperial city, the Zhao n:

    In the Council Hall, the patriarch, Zhao Hong, sat on the first seat to the left, while the previous patriarch, Zhao Tianjue, sat in the main seat.

    Zhao Tianjue asked coldly, ¡°How¡¯s the investigation going?¡±

    Zhao Hong replied, ¡°Father, based on our recent investigations, we have confirmed that Zhao Ru received a letter from a branch family we had previously expelled before his death. He then traveled to Watermoon City.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I see. Since we¡¯ve already gotten to the bottom of the matter, go to Watermoon City. They dare kill our Zhao n¡¯s people. Wipe out their entire family!¡± Zhao Tianjue¡¯s cold voice rang out in the hall, sending shivers down everyone''s spines.

    The Zhao n moved quickly. When Zhao Tianjue gave the order, the entire Zhao n took action.

    They had thoroughly investigated the situation within Watermoon City and were well-informed about the events of the previous City sh Convention.

    Given the magnitude of the incident, gathering information was rtively straightforward.

    ......

    Watermoon City:

    The huge battle thatpletely changed the structure of Watermoon City half a year ago had long since drawn its curtains. Although it raised an enormous storm in the city, the situation gradually calmed down over time.

    The entire Watermoon City had long since returned to its former state of peace as if nothing had happened.

    Chen n:

    The Chen n now stood unchallenged as the foremost power in Watermoon City. Even if the Qian n and the other four major ns united, they wouldn''t pose a threat to the Chen n.

    The Chen n continued to flourish, their strength growing each day. Geniuses from the younger generation popped out one after another like spring bamboos after the rain. The number of Qi Grandmasters in their n exceeded fifty.

    Over the past half a year, the Chen n had produced even ten Yuanfu realm experts. Although they were only at the first level, this had greatly increased the Chen n¡¯s overall strength.

    Chen Tianxiong and the other n higher-ups were discussing some matters in the main hall. When they saw Chen Zhengqing entering the hall, their gazes shifted to him.

    ¡°Zhengqing, you¡¯ve made a breakthrough?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing nodded and said, ¡°Mmm. I¡¯ve broken through to the sixth level.¡±

    The room had around twenty first-level Yuanfu realm higher-ups; they sucked in a breath of cold air.

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s cultivation improved in half a year from the fourth to sixth levels. This speed was shocking.

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s great.¡± Chen Tianxiongughed out loud.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Unfortunately, the Sun Stone''s energy has no more energy. Achieving another breakthrough won''t be easy."

    "The path of martial arts requires patience and stability," Chen Tianxiong advised. "Though rapid progress ismendable, advancing two levels in six months likely made your foundation unstable. Focus on consolidating your cultivation now. Acting rash can lead toplications."

    ¡°You¡¯re right, Father.¡± Chen Zhengqing nodded in agreement. He sighed and said, ¡°I wonder how Xiaofan is doing in the imperial city?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Xiaofan is not the reckless type,¡± Chen Tianxiong reassured him.

    Meanwhile, outside Watermoon City, Zhao Hong led the Zhao n''s forces through the air, their formidable presence casting a heavy pressure that seemed to darken the skies over the entire city.

 Chapter 357 - Chen Clan in Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 357 - Chen n in Trouble</h4>

    The chilling aura of the Zhao n members swept toward Watermoon City from a distance, chilling the air even before their arrival. The temperature inside the city plummeted as if midwinter had arrived.

    Everyone in Watermoon City sensed that terrifying cold killing intent almost instantly. Confused and terrified, they looked at the horizon.

    ¡°Who are these people?¡±

    ¡°Such frightening auras! Such horrifying murderous qi! It''s like they''re reapers from the depths of hell,e to im souls."

    ¡°Did someone provoke such untouchable existences?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The panic spread rapidly throughout the entire city.

    Zhao Hong and the others¡¯ auras were too powerful, and their cold, murderous qi could seemingly freeze heaven and earth, scaring the people out of their wits.

    Amidst the chaos, a figure emerged from within Watermoon City, soaring with determination towards Zhao Hong''s group.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    This person was a middle-aged man at the third level of the Yuanfu realm, and he half-knelt before the group.

    ¡°You may rise.¡± Zhao Hong said calmly, ¡°Tell me what you¡¯ve heard.¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    This middle-aged man quickly ryed the information he had gathered to Zhao Hong and hispanions.

    Zhao Hong''s expression remained steady, showing no signs of emotion. With a nod, he uttered, ¡°Let¡¯s go, wipe out the Chen n!¡±

    This middle-aged man immediately led Zhao Hong and the others to the Chen n, looking like they were out for murder.

    Rumors began to spread like wildfire among the inhabitants of Watermoon City.

    ¡°Something huge is about to go down!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, they¡¯re here for the Chen n.¡±

    ¡°The Chen n is done for. Those must be experts from the imperial city''s Zhao n."

    ¡°......¡±

    The people of Watermoon City overheard the conversation between the middle-aged man and Zhao Hong. Realizing they were here to wipe out the Chen n, they were horrified.

    They had pretty much guessed the identities of this group of people: the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n.

    After all, half a year ago, Chen Fan had killed a great figure from the imperial city in front of a crowd at the City sh Convention. The crowd had known that the matter wouldn¡¯t end just like that. As expected, the Zhao n¡¯s experts came half a yearter.

    This time, the Chen n would truly be annihted.

    The onlookers quivered with fear as Zhao Hong and hispanions soared through the skies above Watermoon City, emitting a terrifying aura.

    Just mentioning ¡°the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n¡± made it clear that these were individuals not to be trifled with.

    ......

    ¡°Chen n,e out and ept your deaths!¡± A cold voice resounded like thunder, rolling through space and reaching the Chen n.

    Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and the others heard the ultimatum filled with killing intent in the main hall, and everyone¡¯s expressions sank.

    "This is bad. We''re under attack by experts!"

    The entire Chen n shook violently, followed by agonizing screams that filled the air.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Zhao Hong ttened the entrance to the Chen n mansion with a single palm strike. The attack turned the guards stationed at the front courtyard into meat paste.

    ¡°Enemy attack! Enemy attack!¡±

    The Chen n mobilized swiftly, rallying to defend their home.

    Chen Zhengqing and the others walked out and looked at Zhao Hong¡¯s group. Their pupils shrank violently, but they shouted coldly, ¡°Who are you people?¡±

    ¡°Who are we?¡± Zhao Hong and the others smiled coldly and said, ¡°We¡¯re the people who will wipe out your Chen n!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Wipe out their n! Wipe out their n!¡±

    The Zhao n members at the back roared furiously, their murderous qi soaring to the skies.

    The Chen n members'' expressions turned pale, some trembling uncontrobly at the sheer terror of the situation.

    Under the oppression of Zhao Hong and the others¡¯ auras, even Chen Qingqing and the others who had broken through to the first level of the Yuanfu realm felt suffocated.

    ¡°I''m certain you recall the events of half a year ago. By daring to y members of our Zhao n, you invited this doom upon yourselves. Know this: none of you from the Chen n will escape today! Every one of you has to die!¡± Zhao Hong¡¯s voice rumbled like thunder, rattling the tiles on the roof of the Chen n''s residence.

    Immediately, the sounds of weapons falling to the ground rang out.

    <i>ng! ng! ng!</i>

    Some of the Chen n¡¯s private troops immediately knelt and kowtowed, begging for mercy. ¡°Sirs, we¡¯re innocent. We''re merely employed by the Chen n; we hold no allegiance to them. Please, sirs, spare our lives...¡±

    Arge swathe of private troops had abandoned their weapons and were kowtowing on the ground, begging for mercy. Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and the others were furious.

    ¡°You scoundrels...¡±

    To put it into their perspective, the Chen n had spent a lot of resources to nurture these private troops. Yet, at the first sign of trouble, they betrayed their loyalty and knelt, begging for their lives.

    However, Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong remained unfazed.

    These private troops were not native to Xuanyang City; they had been recruited after the Chen n settled in Watermoon City. Their loyalty to the n was tenuous at best, given that they hadn''t been a part of it for long.

    These men weren¡¯t like Wang Tieshan or the others from Xuanyang City, whom the n had cultivated for over a decade, if not longer. Their loyalty to the n was unquestionable. Even if the Chen n faced a disaster, they would never abandon the n. [1]

    ¡°Very well, since you¡¯re only the Chen n¡¯s private troops, I¡¯ll give you a chance. Now, kill the Chen n members. A life for a life,¡± Zhao Hong said with a cold smile.

    Ruthless looks appeared in the eyes of the private troops. They unleashed their cultivation andunched ferocious attacks at the Chen n members without hesitation.

    Under the relentless pressure of Zhao Hong and hispanions, they had no faith in the Chen n''s survival.

    As for Chen Fan, they all knew he had gone to the imperial city. However, the Zhao n experts had already made their way here. Chen Fan''s fate seemed obvious without needing further exnation.

    ¡°Damn it, you traitors! You deserve to die!¡±

    Chen Yunchong, Chen Hualong, and the others were furious. Their cultivations erupted, and they immediately started killing these traitorous private troops.

    ¡°You guys attack as well. Don¡¯t spare anyone from the Chen n. Leave not even their pets alive!¡± ordered Zhao Hong. The Zhao n members behind him quickly charged toward the Chen n.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Leave no one alive!¡±

    ¡°A small n from a mere Grade-2 city dares to spill the blood of our Zhao n''s kin. For your sins, you shall pay dearly! Today, everyst one of you will meet your end!¡±

    ¡°Cover the entire Chen n in blood!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The group from the Zhao n wasn¡¯t weak. Just their Yuanfu realm experts alone numbered more than ten. Their battle cries shook heaven, and their auras connected as one, shocking heaven and earth and stirring the skies. With their unleashed cultivations, the world trembled in response.

    Soon, cries of agony echoed throughout the area.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    A suffocating pressure descended upon the Chen n, causing their structures to crumble under its weight.

    1. Wang Tieshan used to be Chen Fan¡¯s bodyguard when he was young. He died in one of the n battles. ?

 Chapter 358 - A Spear from the West

    <h4>Chapter 358 - A Spear from the West</h4>

    The Zhao n¡¯s experts ughtered their way into the Chen n. They unleashed their cultivations, their qi soaring into the skies and stirring the winds and clouds. Mournful cries filled the space.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    ¡°Chen n members, kill them all!¡± Chen Zhengqingmanded. His cultivation also erupted violently in an instant. He drew his de and shed. A ming de light shot out, cutting through space with an unstoppable momentum.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± A Zhao n expert at the sixth level snorted coldly and threw out a palm strike. It shook the space and collided with Chen Zhengqing¡¯s de attack, producing rumbling noises as the qi stormed out.

    Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, and the others didn¡¯t make a move, standing arrogantly in the air like lofty gods, observing the struggles of the Chen n below.

    They had already clearly understood the Chen n¡¯s overall strength. The strongest among them was Chen Zhengqing, at the sixth level. As for the others, only Chen Tianxiong was slightly stronger than the rest, being at the third level.

    Given the Chen n¡¯s strength, the Zhao n experts did not need to lower themselves and take action. They only needed to lock down the area with their auras and prevent anyone from escaping.

    ¡°As expected of the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n. The Chen n will be wiped out this time.¡±

    ¡°They just finished constructing this building. Is it going to copse today?¡±

    "I heard Chen Fan went to the imperial city. Looks like he met his end there."

    ¡°......¡±

    The Watermoon City¡¯s citizens all looked at the fight in the Chen n from afar, their eyes flickering, discussing among themselves.

    ¡°Brother Qian, it seems the Chen n won''t survive this ordeal.¡±

    The four great ns¡¯ patriarchs, Qian Tongtian, L¨· Hou, Zhou Butong, and Zhang Huaiyuan, had gathered together, their gazes flickering intensely.

    Not even the entire Watermoon Citybined could defend against the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n, let alone only the Chen n.

    Today, the Chen n would be history.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    As the Zhao n members ughtered their enemies, their murderous intent surged forth, enveloping the battlefield.

    They did not waste any time talking. They unleashed their cultivations and executed their martial skills. They unleashed torrents of devastating force upon the Chen n members.

    Thus began a tragic battle within the Chen n mansion.

    The Chen n had developed rapidly over the past year, with several experts emerging from their ranks like spring bamboo after a rain. Unfortunately, they were still far fromparable to arge n like the Zhao n, which had over a thousand years of history.

    Although the Zhao n¡¯s group was at a severe numerical disadvantage, each of their members was an elite among elites, capable of facing multiple Chen n members of the same cultivation level.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    With more than half of the Chen n''s private troops turning against them, the Chen n found themselves constantly pushed back. The air was filled with miserable screams as their kin fell one by one.

    A deep sense of despair descended upon every member of the Chen n.

    The true experts of the Zhao n had yet to even lift a finger. They only stood in the air, watching the fight unfold, yet the Chen n was already at a disadvantage. If Zhao Hong and the others made a move, the Chen n would be gone in the blink of an eye.

    Every member of the Chen n fought desperately with their lives on the line.

    They knew that the Chen n likely wouldn¡¯t survive today; as they fought, their bloodlust arose, and their attack grew increasingly vicious. They fought to trade their life for their opponents¡¯. If they were about to go down, they might as well take a few down with them.

    An earth-shaking explosion rang out. A first-level Yuanfu realm expert from the Chen n chose to self-detonate, taking down a first-level Yuanfu expert from the Zhao n and more than ten private troops who had betrayed the n.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°Tragic, truly tragic!¡±

    "Today, there''s no escaping for the Chen n. The true masters of the Zhao n are just standing there, seemingly here to just witness the carnage."

    ¡°That middle-aged man at the front has such a terrifying aura. It''s as if hemands the heavens themselves. That aura of that guy, Zhao Ru, is nothing inparison.¡±

    ¡°That is Zhao Hong, the current patriarch of the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n. He¡¯s a powerhouse at the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Zhao Hong suddenly said, ¡°Zhao Kun, go. Kill that person!¡±

    He looked at Chen Zhengqing as thetter fought two sixth-level Yuanfu realm experts from the Zhao n, a cold light shing across his eyes. Although he was covered in blood, fighting one against two, he was pushing back the two Zhao n experts repeatedly.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Zhao Kun nodded and made a move, charging toward Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Heavenly Thunder Palm!¡±

    Zhao Kun channeled his qi; immediately, lightning shed, and thunder boomed.

    He practiced a lightning-attribute cultivation technique. As he moved his hand, crackling noises rang out chaotically from him, like he was the god of thunder.

    As he pressed down his palm, a huge palm seal with lightning arcs streaking across it descended on Chen Zhengqing with unmatched power.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Zhengqing felt his pores shrink as he sensed the intense danger from the attack darting toward him.

    The two illusory primeval vessels inside him erupted, and his aura instantly skyrocketed. With a swing of his arm, he shed at the Heavenly Thunder Palm.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    A loud explosion rang out. Chen Zhengqing spewed out blood from the impact, and his aura fluctuated erratically.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Although he had cultivated two illusory primeval vessels, allowing him to wield twice hisbat strength, his overall strength was only equal to that of someone at the peak of the sixth level. So, he was simply no match for someone at the seventh level like Zhao Kun.

    ¡°Interesting. From the looks of it, you just advanced to the sixth level, right? Yet, yourbat strength is at the peak of the sixth level. How surprising.¡± Zhao Kun stood leisurely in the air, his aura surging and making the clouds roll. He smiled coldly and said, ¡°But it¡¯s too bad. No matter how hard you struggle, your fate is sealed today.

    ¡°Your Chen n was doomed from the moment that brat Chen Fan killed our Zhao n members. Oh, I forgot to tell you, your son Chen Fan went to the imperial city and was killed. Now, I''ll send you to join him in hell," continued Zhao Kun, his lips curling into a chilling smile, sending shivers down one''s spine.

    Chen Zhengqing did not respond to him. Since the Zhao n''s arrival, a sense of foreboding had gripped his heart. Chen Fan had likely met a tragic fate.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Zhao Kun struck out once more. His primeval force transformed into seven thunderous swords, shooting in an arc at tricky and vicious angles. They were aimed at Chen Zhengqing¡¯s vital points, leaving him with no way of escape.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Chen Zhengqing found himself in a dire life-and-death situation, but a sharp, ear-piercing cry reverberated through space.

    The sound echoed like a thunderp¡ªdeafening and earth-shaking¡ªas if lightning had struck under a clear sky.

    To the west of Watermoon City, a pitch-ck silhouette rapidly grewrger.

    It was an iron spear, ripping through the air with terrifying rotational force toward the Chen n mansion as swift and ferocious as thunder. It was wrapped in power that could tear the sky and split the earth.

    Its target: Zhao Kun.

 Chapter 359 - Resolving the Crisis

    <h4>Chapter 359 - Resolving the Crisis</h4>

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>...¡± Nangong Baxiong let out a light sigh from a rooftop as he witnessed Chen Zhengqing''s life hanging by a thread. Just as he was about to rescue him, a piercing sound tore through the sky from the western part of Watermoon City.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    <i>Chi, chi. Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    An iron spear, spinning with terrifying rotational force, shot through the air as swiftly and ferociously as a thunderbolt. It was wrapped in power that could tear the sky and split the earth.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Zhao Kun suddenly felt like death itself had locked onto him. Forget about killing Chen Zhengqing; he was more worried about falling into hell now.

    He raised his head and saw an iron spear darting toward him; it had horrifying destructive power.

    Its aura left him¡ªan expert at the seventh level¡ªtrembling with fear.

    ¡°This...¡± This sudden turn of events sent chills down Zhao Kun''s spine. He had no time to ponder and pushed his cultivation to the limits. Primeval force rushed out, condensing into a thunderous shield before him.

    Unfortunately, the shield was like a block of melting butter before a hot knife. The iron spear destroyed it instantly and continued toward Zhao Kun.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Death stood before him now. His pupils shrank violently as the iron spear shot toward him with terrifying force, threatening to drag him into the deep abyss. He roared, "No!¡±

    s, it was futile.

    The primeval protective force around him tore apart like paper as the iron spear pierced through, nailing him to the ground with a boom.

    The entire battlefield fell silent at once.

    Even Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, and the others could not react to the sudden turn of events.

    By the time they snapped back to their senses, Zhao Kun¡ªan expert at the seventh level of the Yuanfu realmy nailed to the ground by the iron spear, dead.

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    Nefarious qi immediately surged from Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, and the others, reaching the skies. Their auras rolled, covering the sky and the sun. The hearts of everyone in Watermoon City tightened.

    "Have you forgotten me so soon, Patriarch Zhao?" A faintughter rang out. A figure appeared in the distance; as if shrinking thend into an inch, he appeared in the skies above the Chen n mansion next.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡± Chen Zhengqing cried out in shock, recognizing the neer as Chen Fan.

    He had thought that Chen Fan had met a tragic fate in the imperial city, so he didn¡¯t expect him to appear here.

    ¡°You are...¡±

    Zhao Hong didn''t recognize Chen Fan since he wore a mask on both asions when sneaking into the Zhao n mansion. That mask was lost when Chen Fan fell into the River of Rage.

    ¡°You¡¯re that masked person who sneaked into our Zhao n twice!¡±

    An incredibly fierce light suddenly shone in Zhao Hong¡¯s pupils.

    He had never seen Chen Fan¡¯s face before, nor had he sensed his aura before. However, Chen Fan¡¯s figure seemed strikingly simr to that person. Also, since Chen Fan had decided to show himself now, Zhao Hong was eighty to ny percent sure of his guess.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, it¡¯s me. Why, you didn¡¯t think I¡¯d still be alive, did you? Is Zhao Tianjue that old coot here? It¡¯s best if he¡¯s here. I can also kill him, saving me a trip to the imperial city!"

    Chen Fan stood proudly in the sky and grabbed at the empty air. Immediately, the iron spear flew into his hand. With a shake, he reduced Zhao Kun''s corpse to minced meat.

    His eyes were icy, filled with cold intent.

    Chen Fan never imagined Zhao Hong would lead a group to Watermoon City and try to wipe out the Chen n. If he hadn''t arrived in time, his father, Chen Zhengqing, would''ve fallen victim to their viciousness.

    ncing over, he saw many Chen n members had died tragically.

    ¡°Very well! Zhao Hong, all of you can forget about returning alive today!¡±

    A surge of shocking killing intent erupted from Chen Fan, sweeping the sun and the moon.

    Everyone felt their hearts tremble.

    Even Zhao Hong¡¯s pupils contracted violently, and his heart skipped a beat. He couldn¡¯t help but shriek, ¡°Your cultivation... ninth level! How is that possible?!¡±

    When Chen Fan was at the seventh level, he could already take on Zhao Hong. Now that his cultivation had skyrocketed to the ninth level, how was he supposed to fight him?!

    ¡°Run!¡± Zhao Hong roared with almost zero hesitation as he shed at Chen Fan with a de. Simultaneously, he sped off into the distance like a bolt of lightning.

    ¡°It¡¯s no use. Since you¡¯re here today, none of you can leave.¡±

    Chen Fan pinched with his hand. That terrifying de light that could kill an eighth-level Yuanfu realm expert shattered to bits with a bang.

    Then, he grabbed at the empty air. Countless streaks of primeval force descended from the sky and shot toward Zhao Hong¡¯s group like snakes.

    As soon as Chen Fan moved, the surrounding air was torn apart by him as if it was as fragile as paper.

    The crowd saw Chen Fan making a move in the air. Immediately, thousands of primeval force waves appeared like long rivers, surging.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± The Zhao n members started screaming miserably.

    Chen Fan¡¯s move was like arge-scale attack. The primeval force waves shot out in all directions, aiming for the Zhao n members.

    These primeval force waves were as bright as starlight. They were astoundingly heavy, and the rumbling impact cracked open the earth as they fell.

    There were also long rivers of me, ice, des, and thunder. The thousands of variations of fierce attacks seemed like they had the power to destroy the world, all falling on the Zhao n members.

    Except for high Yuanfu realm experts like Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, and some others who managed to defend against this attack, the others were either killed or injured. Screams rang out endlessly, and fresh blood spattered everywhere.

    The entire Watermoon City¡¯s people sucked in a breath of cold air.

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    Chen Fan had killed off more than half of the Zhao n¡¯s forces as soon as he made a move. Those in the third level or lower were powerless to resist the attack and died.

    The crowd felt chills all over.

    Who could defend against such an attack?

    ¡°Chen Fan, how terrifying! A singlerge area attack, and Yuanfu experts died like ants!¡±

    "Heavens, I can''t withstand even one such move."

    "Terrifying, simply terrifying! Is Chen Fan a reincarnated immortal? His cultivation skyrocketed to the ninth level in only half a year. It''s an inhuman feat."

    ¡°Is he still human?¡±

    ¡°The Chen n made it through this disaster.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people¡¯s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets.

    Only half a year had passed. The speed at which Chen Fan increased his strength was like taking a rocket.

    Moreover, once he struck, he instantaneously attacked everyone from the Zhao n. Those below the seventh level were all injured, and those below the third level were dead.

    They hade with ferocious momentum, intent on wiping out the Chen n. However, the Zhao n members'' eyes now flickered with fear, even Zhao Hong''s.

 Chapter 360 - Unstoppable Momentum

    <h4>Chapter 360 - Unstoppable Momentum</h4>

    Everyone was shocked. However, the Chen n members also felt relief after surviving the disaster.

    They had thought that they would all die today; unexpectedly, Chen Fan appeared at the crucial moment to save them. He killed half the people in the Zhao n¡¯s group with a single attack and forced Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, and the others to flee.

    The Chen n has made it through the disaster.

    Chen Fan''s pristine robes billowed loudly in the wind, lending him an imposing presence among the crowd. His aura was majestic and deep. Although not tyrannical, it contained a sharpness that could pierce the heavens, reminiscent of a formidable sword ready to strike.

    ¡°Can you people escape?¡± Chen Fan''s frosty voice reached the ears of Zhao Hong and the rest; it sounded like a knell for them. Every one of them looked as if a great enemy was before them.

    ¡°I told you, since you¡¯re here today, none of you can return alive.¡±

    A terrifying aura burst out from Chen Fan, forming a powerful force field that enveloped the area, causing Zhao Hong and the others¡¯ hearts to jump.

    Chen Fan swung his iron spear horizontally. Crimson mes erupted, creating a towering inferno. It engulfed and overwhelmed the two Zhao n experts at the sixth level who had previously attacked Chen Zhengqing together.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± Miserable cries rang out immediately. The two could be seen burning within those mes. It was iparably tragic, as they turned into ash in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°We all have to work together to deal with him!¡± Zhao Hong roared, and his cultivation erupted. Since it was impossible to escape, their only recourse was to fight.

    Zhao Lei and the others didn¡¯t hesitate either. They knew that their next action would decide their fate, so it was time for them to fight for their lives.

    They all pushed their cultivation to the limit, shaking heaven and earth.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Zhao Hong and the others joined forces almost instantly and struck at Chen Fan. The air explodedyer byyer as the terrifying force washed over space like a mountain flood, descending upon Chen Fan.

    ¡°You¡¯re overestimating yourselves!¡± Chen Fanughed coldly, delivering a straightforward punch.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    This punch made the space tremble violently.

    Subsequently, concentric rings of spatial distortions appeared. The terrifying force surged over, instantly destroying Zhao Hong and the others¡¯bined attack easily.

    ¡°Amazing!¡± The residents of Watermoon City gasped in awe, their gazes quivering.

    When Zhao Hong and the others had unleashed their attacks, its surging aura left the onlookers feeling suffocated.

    Chen Fan¡¯s casual attack had neutralized thebined attack of a ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert, three eighth-level Yuanfu realm experts, and several seventh-level Yuanfu realm experts. It was astonishing and left the people wondering if their eyes were deceiving them.

    ¡°Father, leave the Zhao n to me. You guys deal with those traitors,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Although Zhao Hong and hispanions¡¯bined strength was formidable, he wasn¡¯t too worried about them. After all, it was formidable for others but not for him.

    If it were half a year ago, Chen Fan would have unleashed the Wings of Rain Dragon and fled for his life if he had to face the joint forces of the Zhao n.

    But now, it was the Zhao n who should think of a way to escape.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Chen Zhengqing nodded. His gaze became incredibly cold as he looked at the traitorous private troops.

    ¡°Patriarch, mercy, mercy, please! We didn¡¯t have a choice...¡±

    ¡°Right, right. We were forced to. We didn¡¯t want to die.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The private troops immediately knelt on the ground, begging for mercy. Their repeated kowtowing was like pounding garlic.

    Chen Zhengqing smiled coldly and said, ¡°Hah, forced into it? If all you did was turn your backs against my Chen n, I could have forgiven you. But you never should have made a move against our people. Face your fate!"

    Without hesitation, Chen Zhengqing and his allies swiftly dispatched the treacherous private troops.

    ¡°Ahhh, ahhh...¡±

    Although the situation coerced the private troops'' betrayal, they hadid their hands on the Chen n members. Therefore, they couldn¡¯t be spared.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan paid no heed to Chen Zhengqing''s actions. Instead, he fixed a cold gaze upon Zhao Hong''s group, a dangerous smirk ying on his lips.

    ¡°I am sure you didn¡¯t wake up today thinking this would be yourst day. s, I won¡¯t even give you the time to regret it. All of you will have to... die!¡± said Chen Fan; suddenly, he vanished from his spot.

    He reappeared before a Zhao n expert at the seventh level, and with a shake of his arm, the iron spear stabbed out violently. Before the expert could even react, he was dead.

    ¡°Damn it! Rally together; don''t allow him to pick us off one by one. I''ve already sent word to the old patriarch. All we need to do is to hold on until he arrives. Then, this little bastard will die without a doubt!¡± Zhao Hong shouted. Zhao Lei and the others quickly came over one after another.

    ¡°Oh? You''ve alerted Zhao Tianjue? Saves me the trip to the imperial city to deal with him myself," Chen Fan retorted coldly, disying disdain toward the Illusory Core realm Zhao Tianjue.

    ¡°What arrogance!¡±

    ¡°Shameful boasting!¡±

    ¡°It will be your death when our old patriarch arrives, you bastard!¡± Zhao Hong and the others immediately cursed out loud.

    Ignoring their outbursts, Chen Fan charged into their defensive formation, wielding his iron spear.

    In front of absolute strength, all kinds of methods and tricks were useless.

    As soon as Chen Fan made a move, his aura pressed toward the Zhao n members like a mountain. Even Zhao Hong, also at the ninth level like Chen Fan, felt a deadly pressure under this terrifying aura.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Zhao n members¡¯ protective primeval force exploded abruptly.

    The powerful pressure forced them to push their cultivation to the absolute limit. Primeval vessels rose above their heads, and various phenomena appeared at their backs, reflecting the cultivation technique they practiced, shining brilliantly.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan took a step forward, ignoring all space, distance, and primeval force in his way, attacking and killing the Zhao n members.

    A single person was brazenly charging into so many and attacking.

    What kind of crazy behavior was this? He seemed like a moth to a me in the crowd''s eyes. Not even ¡°seeking your own death¡± seemed to fit this situation.

    Fierce! Fierce! Fierce!

    Chen Fan attacked brazenly, and several spear silhouettes pierced through the void.

    Every spear thrust carried enough power to destroy heaven and decimate earth. The attacks broke the Zhao n members¡¯ auras and shook their defensive formation, the impact causing them to spew blood wildly.

    Chen Fan¡¯s robes fluttered in the wind like white clouds rolling over and covering the sky.

    His gaze was like lightning, piercing across the sky.

    His hands were like the wrath of thunder, tearing the mountains.

    His primeval force was like meteors crashing to the earth, piercing through the continent.

    No one could find the words to describe how lofty Chen Fan seemed.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan spat out a singr icy word.

    With a rumbling noise, Chen Fan stabbed his iron spear. The space trembled, seemingly unable to withstand the terrifying strength he unleashed.

    The Zhao n members¡¯ auras were destroyed with a bang, and their defensive formation was broken apart. The eighth-level Yuanfu realm expert, Zhao Lei, watched as Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear darted toward him, unable to stop it at all.

 Chapter 361 â€“ Devastated

    <h4>Chapter 361 ¨C Devastated</h4>

    ¡°Zhao Lei!¡± Zhao Hong roared furiously.

    He swung his de fiercely, its light like a blizzard, capable ofpletely freezing anyone. Chen Fan countered with a simple backhanded smack; it melted the ice instantly, restoring everything to its original state.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get impatient. Your turn wille very soon.¡±

    Chen Fan stabbed backward, eliminating another top expert of the Zhao n.

    ¡°Ignite your primeval force. All of you, ignite your primeval force!¡± Zhao Hong''s voice echoed with madness.

    In the face of Chen Fan''s overwhelming strength, even theirbined efforts were all for naught. Instead, they lost two top experts in an instant.

    A snowy image appeared above Zhao Hong. He had ignited his primeval force.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    His aura immediately erupted, rising and approaching the level of the Illusory Core realm.

    The other Zhao n members also ignited their primeval forces one after another, determined to fight Chen Fan to the death.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Zhao Hong bellowed, wielding his de like a madman. Streams of fierce de light pierced the air, resembling pure white snowkes.

    ¡°Blizzard Fills the Sky!¡±

    The densely packed, pure white snowke-like de lights shot toward Chen Fan, tearing through the air. Every de light had aimed to rend him into countless pieces.

    However, Chen Fan remained unfazed. Let alone Zhao Hong, even if Zhao Tianjue were here and ignited his illusory core, the only oue would be Zhao Tianjue dying.

    With a swift motion, he thrust his iron spear fiercely, engulfing Zhao Hong''s snowke de lights with waves of raging mes, obliterating them instantly.

    ¡°Unified Dragon Tiger Lightning God Big Dipper Qi!¡± Zhao Yihai, an expert at the peak of the eighth level, made his move. [1]

    It summoned a dense web of lightning from the void, with dragon and tiger-shaped lightning arcs coalescing into a deadly force capable of cutting off the heavenly river.

    The dragon-tiger lightning web flew through the air. If thrown into an ocean, it could paralyze all the demonic beasts in the entire ocean. The could ensnare anything it touched.

    Chen Fan countered with a palm strike.

    With a rumble, a strange palm seal with three fingers appeared in the air, carrying with it the essence of reaping lives. The Northern Star Reaper Hand destroyed the dragon-tiger lightning web as soon as they made contact.

    Without losing any momentum, the Northern Star Reaper Hand continued toward Zhao Yihai. With a boom, the space shook, followed by a rain of blood.

    ¡°Yihai!¡± Zhao Hong¡¯s sorrowful cry rang out.

    Chen Fan stepped forward, dashed ahead, and shook his arm.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    Numerous ming spear silhouettes materialized; like zing meteors, they fell toward the Zhao n members.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    The attack killed all the Zhao n members except for a handful of eighth and ninth-level Yuanfu realm experts, including Zhao Hong, who barely survived the attack.

    Zhao Hong and the three others¡¯ faces turned ghastly white, trembling. It was unknown whether they were trembling from anger or fear.

    The public of Watermoon City hadn¡¯t stopped discussing the fight.

    ¡°Too powerful. Killing more than ten people with a single attack... How terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Who would''ve imagined the mighty Zhao n of the imperial city would be reduced to mere ants? They hade with such fierce momentum to wipe out the Chen n, but Chen Fan alone took care of them.¡±

    ¡°Shh, keep your voice down. The imperial city¡¯s Zhao n has Core Formation realm experts. Although Chen Fan may seem iparably imposing right now, he¡¯ll have to kneel once the Zhao n¡¯s Core Formation realm experts arrive.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°This guy... it hasn¡¯t even been that long, but he is already at the ninth level? Wasn¡¯t he at the fourth level?¡± Nangong Baxiong was shocked as he watched Chen Fan show off his divine might.

    He did not know that Chen Fan had concealed his true cultivation level back then. So, he thought that Chen Fan had gone from the fourth to the ninth level so quickly that it was simply unprecedented.

    Wielding his iron spear, Chen Fan looked at the four trembling members of the Zhao n. He said coldly, ¡°Zhao Hong, what tricks do you have left? Use them all. Otherwise, you won''t get another chance."

    ¡°Don¡¯t get happy too soon, Chen Fan. You¡¯ll have to die even after killing us!¡± Zhao Hong said malevolently.

    Chen Fan chuckled lightly, then pursed his lips and said, ¡°Oh, you think Zhao Tianjue can kill me? You¡¯re too na?ve. I¡¯ll tell you the truth. I¡¯ve killed even Illusory Core realms before. When hees, I¡¯ll send Zhao Tianjue to reunite with you people down there.

    ¡°Now, go to hell!¡±

    Chen Fan appeared in front of the four with a single step. His strength surged, and his qi and blood ttered noisily. Under his terrifying and oppressive aura, Zhao Hong and the others couldn¡¯t open their eyes, and their hearts beat wildly.

    His next punch obliterated their auras, and it was unstoppable as itnded squarely on Zhao Hong.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Zhao Hong¡¯s bones echoed like war drums, shattering inch by inch.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Zhao Hong screamed in pain as he crashed onto the ground like a falling meteor.

    He was heavily injured and lost all fighting strength.

    ¡°Kill him, attack together!¡±

    Although the remaining three seventh and eighth-level Yuanfu realm experts were terrified, they had no way to retreat, so their only option was to fight.

    The three pushed their burning primeval force to the limit. Their auras surged, deep like the abyss, as they shot with immense force toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°What use is your bravado? It was useless when you had ten on your side, so what difference can you three make? Pointless!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent voice rang out. He grabbed at the empty air, and the gesture seemed to have constricted the surrounding space.

    The trio¡¯sbined attack blew up with a pinch from Chen Fan.

    ¡°I¡¯ll send you to hell.¡±

    With a shake of his arm, he stabbed out three times in a row. Following three poofs, the three seventh and eighth-level Yuanfu realm experts suddenly stiffened.

    Silence enveloped Watermoon City. Minds seemed constrained, and brains ceased to function. The popce stared nkly at Chen Fan hovering in the air.

    Aside from the heavily injured Zhao Hong, sprawled out on the ground like mud and panting heavily for air, all the other Zhao n members were dead.

    The massacre unfolded with such swiftness that it seemed like a fleeting moment. Chen Fan had single-handedly decimated the Zhao n with unstoppable force and overwhelming strength, leaving observers unable toprehend his dominance.

    Chen Fan directed his gaze toward Zhao Hong. He reached out his hand and grabbed at the empty air, picking up Zhao Hong like a little chick, and said coldly, ¡°You didn¡¯t think it would end like this, did you?¡±

    Zhao Hong did not say a word, only staring at Chen Fan with bitter resentment.

    Chen Fan was unmoved by his re and continued, ¡°From the look in your eyes, you still harbor a sliver of hope for Zhao Tianjue. Fine, I won¡¯t kill you first. You will see with your own eyes how he dies.¡±

    1. Yes, I know how ridiculous it sounds. What¡¯s even more ridiculous is that a quick Google search showed me another novel that used the same move. However, I have to say this novel came out first. ?

 Chapter 362 - Zhao Tianjue Arrives

    <h4>Chapter 362 - Zhao Tianjue Arrives</h4>

    The imperial city, Zhao n mansion:

    Zhao Tianjue awaited news of Zhao Hong and the others'' attack on the Chen n.

    Abruptly, his expression twitched, and he reached out, grasping a streak of light that materialized into amunication jade talisman.

    With a thought, he sent his primeval force into themunication jade talisman.

    Instantly, his aura surged uncontrobly, unleashing a formidable force that pulverized nearby objects.

    He did not say a word, but only the desire for murder could be seen on his face. Zhao Tianjue blurred into motion, soaring into the sky and vanishing beyond the horizon.

    ......

    Watermoon City:

    ¡°It¡¯s over?¡±

    ¡°A huge battle ended just like that. It¡¯s like a dream.¡±

    ¡°This true dragon of Chen n is indeed extraordinary. Given time, he''ll undoubtedly advance to the Core Formation realm, bing a leading expert of the Great Chu Empire unless he meets an untimely death."

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you just stating the obvious? His cultivation is already at the ninth level, so isn¡¯t he like just one step away from the Core Formation realm?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Once the shock ebbed, the crowd gradually regainedposure, their eyes reflecting a mix of emotions.

    When Zhao Hong and the others hade full of murderous qi, no one expected things to turn out like this.

    The Chen n remained standing, unshaken. Surprisingly, the esteemed Zhao n from the imperial city sufferedplete devastation.

    All of it was like a dream.

    They were all top experts from the imperial city. Even so, they could not withstand a single attack from Chen Fan. They were like ants, vulnerable to his whim.

    The high and mighty patriarch of the Zhao n had his cultivation crippled and was cast aside like garbage, left to agonize on death''s doorstep. Chen Fan left him alive so that he could witness the death of Zhao Tianjue.

    Chen Zhengqing was almost done dealing with the traitorous private troops.

    Despite their overwhelming numbers, the private troops paled inparison in terms of cultivation, so Chen Zhengqing and his group easily killed them, their pleas falling on deaf ears.

    The Chen n mansion had simply turned into an Asura battlefield. A river of blood flowed, and the metallic smell of blood filled the air.

    Chen Fan walked over. Looking at Chen Zhengqing and the others covered in blood, he asked, ¡°Father, are you, Grandfather, and everyone all right?¡±

    Before he arrived, Chen Zhengqing and the other nsmen were in a brutal fight against the Zhao n and the traitorous private troops. Everyone was covered in injuries and fresh blood.

    Chen Zhengqing shook his head and said, ¡°I''m fine, just superficial wounds. This time, a disaster knocked on our Chen n¡¯s doors. We would have been wiped out if you hadn¡¯t returned on time.¡±

    His words held no exaggeration.

    The Zhao n hade with great force. Zhao Hong, Zhao Lei, Zhao Yihai, and a bunch of eighth and ninth-level Yuanfu realm experts had sealed the area. They did not intend to let a single Chen n member off and wanted to wipe out the npletely.

    Against those experts, the Chen n simply had no chance.

    ¡°That¡¯s great. But I arrived a step toote... I let many of our nsmen die,¡± said Chen Fan, his tone full of killing intent.

    Apart from Yuanfu realm higher-ups, even those in the Qigong realm were among the casualties. Many from the younger generation had died in this fight.

    They were the future backbone of the Chen n.

    Their deaths incurred a blood debt that the Zhao n must repay. This incident would not be swiftly forgotten.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to me yourself. Their deaths will not be in vain," Chen Zhengqingforted, giving Chen Fan''s shoulder a reassuring pat.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Father, let¡¯s clean up the mess first. The fight has reduced the mansion to ruins.¡±

    ¡°That''s manageable. Repairing buildings is a trivial task for us martial artists. More importantly, Xiaofan, Zhao Hong has already sent a letter back to the Zhao n. I¡¯m afraid they will send more experts here. If it¡¯s a Core Formation realm...¡± Chen Zhengqing was worried.

    Chen Zhengqing was well aware of the influence and resources the ns in the imperial city possessed.

    Chen Fan reassured, ¡°No need to worry, Father. I crossed paths with the Zhao n twice in the imperial city. Aside from these people, the Zhao n has someone called Zhao Tianjue.¡±

    ¡°Zhao Tianjue?¡± Chen Zhengqing¡¯s pupils shrunk, and he said, ¡°I know of him. He¡¯s the previous patriarch of the Zhao n.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. He is an Illusory Core realm expert. But that¡¯s nothing to me now. I can kill him with a flip of my hand. Since Zhao Hong contacted Zhao Tianjue, I¡¯ll wait for him toe.¡±

    ¡°Are you confident, Xiaofan?¡±

    ¡°A hundred percent!¡± Chen Fan answered decisively, filled with unshakable confidence. ¡°Let alone a mere Illusory Core realm, I won¡¯t be afraid even if a genuine first-level Core Formation realm expertes!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan with such confidence, Chen Zhengqing nodded.

    Half a dayter, an ominous aura suddenly descended upon Watermoon City.

    Chen Fan had been waiting for Zhao Tianjue. Sensing the aura, his eyes immediately shot out with a stern light. They could seemingly pierce through time and space and see Zhao Tianjue far away.

    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡±

    ¡°You''re done for, little bastard! You¡¯re finished, you know that?! Now that my father is here, you will die!¡± While struggling at death¡¯s door, Zhao Hong also sensed Zhao Tianjue¡¯s Illusory Core realm aura, and his expression immediately became savage and sinister.

    Ignoring Zhao Hong''s taunts, Chen Fan remained resolute. Once Zhao Tianjue died, Zhao Hong would taste the bitterness of despair.

    ¡°Another expert hase. Such a chilling aura... Is this the pressure wielded by an Illusory Core realm master?¡± murmured onlookers, feeling the weight of Zhao Tianjue''s aura.

    Under this aura, everyone felt like ants on the ground, living out an ignoble existence under this terrifying aura.

    Soon after, a thunderous roar echoed, and a fiery ball hurtled toward them.

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    Within the mes stood Zhao Tianjue, his countenance icy and his aura pulsating with killing intent, capable of shaking heavens and earth alike.

    Soon, Zhao Tianjue flew into Watermoon City and arrived at the Chen n mansion.

    Chen Fan picked at his ear and said nonchntly, ¡°You¡¯re finally here, old coot. You made me wait long.¡±

    Zhao Tianjue saw Zhao Hong lying on the ground like a dead dog, and his anger grew.

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re that masked man who sneaked into my Zhao n and killed my people? You¡¯re not dead!¡± Zhao Tianjue''s voice boomed like thunder, resonating through the air.

    ¡°Die?¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. ¡°An Illusory Core realm like you wants to kill me? You¡¯re overestimating yourself.¡±

    ¡°How truly arrogant and ignorant!¡± The killing intent in Zhao Tianjue¡¯s eyes became even thicker. ¡°Fine, let''s see where you''ll flee this time! If you dare to run, I''ll wipe out your entire n!"

    ¡°Old coot, you¡¯re overestimating yourself again. I wasn¡¯t afraid of you even when I was at the seventh level. Do you think I need to run when I¡¯m at the ninth level?¡± Chen Fan replied with a vague smile, looking at Zhao Tianjue mockingly.

 Chapter 363 - Unable to Withstand a Single Blow

    <h4>Chapter 363 - Unable to Withstand a Single Blow</h4>

    Chen Fan looked at Zhao Tianjue with a vague smile, his expression tinged with mockery, betraying no hint of fear.

    Zhao Tianjue¡¯s illusory core used to be forty to fifty percent solid. However, in his pursuit of Chen Fan, he had ignited his illusory core, albeit only a fraction of it. This action, however slight, had undone years of bitter cultivation.

    His illusory core was only twenty to thirty percent solid now, so he was no threat to Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s words only made Zhao Tianjue angrier.

    He was an Illusory Core realm expert. Even in the imperial city, he could strike fear into others¡¯ hearts with a simple foot stomp.

    Yet, a brat was mocking and humiliating him in front of countless people. His lungs were on the verge of blowing up from all the anger.

    Humiliation!

    Utter humiliation!

    ¡°Snot-nosed brat," Zhao Tianjue spat, his voice dripping with disdain, "you''ve grown bold since your fortunate escapest time, thinking you can disregard me. Truly an ignorant child, you are. Fine, you''ll soon learn the folly of your words and pay dearly for your ignorance. And not just you; your entire n will suffer for your foolishness!¡±

    Those icy cold words exited Zhao Tianjue¡¯s mouth and resounded in the crowd¡¯s eardrums. Everyone could hear the cold killing intent in that voice, capable of freezing people.

    Naturally, the tension weighed heavily on the Chen n members. Even Chen Zhengqing, with all his confidence in Chen Fan, could feel his heart drumming heavily.

    Chen Fan did not acknowledge or refute Zhao Tianjue¡¯s statements. He pursed his lips, pointed at Zhao Hong¡ªlying on the ground like a dead dog¡ªand said, ¡°Do you know why I didn¡¯t kill him?¡±

    Zhao Tianjue¡¯s gaze narrowed.

    ¡°Because I want him to see your death at my hands," Chen Fan continued, his toneced with arrogance. ¡°Did you think you¡¯re invincible just because you¡¯re in the Illusory Core realm? What a joke! I can tell you outright that you will die today, even if you ignited your entire illusory core! You will die even if you advance to the Core Formation realm.¡±

    Many people felt doubtful inside regarding his deration.

    Although Chen Fan had disyed unrivaled strength earlier and killed the Zhao n members like ants, the person standing before him right now was Zhao Tianjue, an Illusory Core realm expert!

    The murmurs swirled among the onlookers, their gazes fixated on Chen Fan,den with spection and doubt.

    ¡°So, there¡¯s still an Illusory Core realm between the Yuanfu and the Core Formation realms...¡±

    ¡°The Illusory Core realm, where the golden core within the dantian remains in a semi-solid state, possessing a fraction of the power of a Core Formation realm expert. Yuanfu realm experts can¡¯t resist experts at that level.¡±

    "True, it''s baffling where Chen Fan draws his confidence from. Even though he can crush ninth-level Yuanfu realm experts like Zhao Hong, he can¡¯t possibly be a match for an Illusory Core realm expert.¡±

    "Perhaps he''s withholding some powerful techniques..."

    ¡°Hopefully so. Otherwise, not even the Buddha can save the Chen n from the impending disaster.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°This guy, I¡¯m not even sure if he really has the strength to resist an Illusory Core realm expert or...¡± Nangong Baxiong couldn¡¯t help but shake his head, unable to see through Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s arrogant words had thoroughly enraged Zhao Tianjue.

    Zhao Tianjue¡¯s aura surged like boiling water as the formidable pressure of an Illusory Core realm expert permeated the surroundings.

    The air currents churned violently, emitting mournful wails.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Under Zhao Tianjue¡¯s cultivation pressure, the already dpidated buildings of the Chen n crumbled into ruins.

    <i>Ka, ka, ka...</i>

    Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, and the others felt suffocated under this pressure. Theirplexions turned ghastly pale, feeling a huge pressure.

    Chen Fan¡¯s clothing ttered fiercely as the wind blew.

    <i>tter!</i>

    However, he was like the reef at the bottom of the sea, unmoving despite the winds blowing and the waves crashing. It was as if the pressure had no effect on Chen Fan.

    Seeing Chen Fan unaffected by the pressure, a stern light shed across Zhao Tianjue¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Hmph, little bastard, meet your death!¡± Zhao Tianjue unleashed his cultivation, his qi reaching the clouds. The space trembled violently.

    With a flip of his palm, the primeval qi in the air copsed.

    He unleashed a palm strike that rushed toward Chen Fan, setting off a chain of explosions.

    ¡°What terrifying power!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, so, this is the strength of an Illusory Core realm expert? That palm strike feels like the heavens are copsing and the earth is splitting open. Like I can do nothing but await my demise, powerless to resist."

    ¡°I wonder if Chen Fan can withstand it?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The spectators'' pupils contracted violently as Zhao Tianjue unleashed his attack, their faces contorted with horror.

    The sheer force of the palm strike evoked surreal imagery¡ªa testament to the terrifying prowess of an Illusory Core realm expert.

    Chen Zhengqing and everyone else from the Chen n felt their hearts tighten.

    If they were the ones facing Zhao Tianjue¡¯s palm strike, they could only resign themselves to their fate, feeling utterly powerless.

    ¡°Hahahaha, little bastard, die! Die! Die! You have to die. Your whole n has to die!¡± said Zhao Hong,ughing loudly despite looking like a dead dog.

    His eyes were filled with endless pleasure as he envisioned Chen Fan being smashed into meat paste.

    ¡°You have the face to bring out such a weak attack? Didn¡¯t I tell you? Your fate is sealed even if you be a Core Formation realm expert right now, right here. Break!¡± Chen Fan let out a roar, channeling his cultivation. His attack darted out like a meteor, striking that oing palm seal.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud noise rang out like a meteorite had crashed onto the earth. The space trembled and churned for a while.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan ignored the ripples of that terrifying impact. He moved over, crushing the space and instantly returning the area into a state of calmness. He appeared in front of Zhao Tianjue and punched him.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan spat out a single icy note.

    It was a simple punch, but Zhao Tianjue felt like the punch contained a universe. He felt like a universe was hurtling toward him.

    Zhao Tianjue¡¯s expression immediately morphed into one of horror.

    ¡°Impossible!¡±

    He hadn¡¯t anticipated Chen Fan to be this powerful. He felt like the god of death had grabbed his soul and was about to harvest his life.

    ¡°Illusory core, ignite!¡± Zhao Tianjue promptly ignited his illusory core.

    He didn¡¯t ignite a portion of it¡ªhe ignited the entire thing. His aura skyrocketed; with a boom, it generated a powerful and terrifying storm.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s punch neutralized the storm easily; the storm failed to provide the least bit of resistance.

    ¡°You ignited your entire illusory core, huh? It''s too bad that you¡¯re still trash. It won¡¯t change your fate!¡±

    Chen Fan was unfazed. His fist was unstoppable, crushing everything.

    Zhao Tianjue shuddered, feeling as though he were trapped, his very soul paralyzed by terror.

    Even though he had ignited his illusory core, the deathly aura remained as thick as ever under Chen Fan¡¯s fist.

    In the blink of an eye, Chen Fan''s fist engulfed his entire field of vision.

    All he could perceive was an overwhelming, inexplicable force crashing into him like a flood, obliterating flesh, blood, tendons, bones, and organs alike in its merciless wake.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Even in death, Zhao Tianjue could not believe that Chen Fan¡ªthe man he had once nearly driven to the end of the road¡ªwould end his life with a single punch a few monthster.

    ¡°Weakling!¡±

    Chen Fan pursed his lips, retracting his fist as he looked at Zhao Tianjue, who had already lost all signs of life.

 Chapter 364 - Zhao Clan Wiped Out

    <h4>Chapter 364 - Zhao n Wiped Out</h4>

    The echo of saliva being swallowed reverberated throughout Watermoon City.

    <i>Gulp.</i>

    Nobody could snap out of their daze just yet.

    What had they just witnessed?

    Chen Fan had killed an Illusory Core realm expert with one punch.

    The Illusory Core realm expert had even ignited their illusory core to push their strength to its limits, yet he couldn¡¯t withstand that ordinary punch.

    Everyone was dumbfounded at this moment.

    Many people had suspected that Chen Fan was only bluffing, thinking he would be no match for an expert of that caliber. Yet, their hearts now raced uncontrobly, threatening to burst from their chests.

    Others believed Chen Fan''s boldness stemmed from the fact that he still had some methods up his sleeve. Thus, they thought the sh between Chen Fan and Zhao Tianjue would be an intense battle.

    However, contrary to everyone¡¯s expectations, this ¡°intense¡± battle ended so quickly. It ended as soon as it began.

    The Illusory Core realm expert had been like an ant before Chen Fan,pletely powerless to fight back.

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice resounded in their ears.

    ¡°Weakling.¡±

    Zhao Tianjue was indeed a weakling in front of Chen Fan.

    After a prolonged silence, the crowd gradually regained theirposure.

    ¡°What did I see? I¡¯m not dreaming, am I? This can¡¯t be real!¡±

    ¡°One punch. Chen Fan killed him with one punch! Heavens...¡±

    ¡°No wonder he acted so arrogantly towards Zhao Tianjue. Everyone underestimated him. It turns out he had such strength.¡±

    ¡°To kill an Illusory Core realm expert... How truly terrifying. Exactly how strong is Chen Fan? He imed that Zhao Tianjue would face death even if he broke through to the Core Formation realm. Is his strength alreadyparable to Core Formation realm experts?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps... <i>gulp</i>... it¡¯s true.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless gazes fell on Chen Fan as if they were looking at a monster.

    They couldn''t fathom how someone at the ninth level killed an Illusory Core realm expert. It shattered their preconceptions, flipping their expectations on their heads.

    ¡°This guy... What a surprise," Nangong Baxiong murmured, his expression a mixture of emotions. He also hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to kill Zhao Tianjue with a single punch.

    His assumptions hadn¡¯t been that different from the crowd, expecting to witness an intense battle. However, the reality had left him dumbfounded.

    After a brief moment of bewilderment, the Chen n members finally returned to their senses and burst out with cheers.

    ¡°Chen n is invincible! Young Patriarch is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Invincible! Invincible!¡±

    Every Chen n member seemed excited. Having just weathered a cmity, they found themselves flooded with pent-up emotions.

    Copsed on the ground like a dead dog, Zhao Hong¡¯s expression was stiff, his gaze vacant. He looked like he had lost his soul as he muttered, ¡°How is this possible? How is this possible...¡±

    Zhao Tianjue¡¯s death was like a lightning bolt in a clear sky to Zhao Hong. He simply could not ept it.

    Chen Fan did not kill him right away. Hended on the ground and came to Chen Zhengqing¡¯s side. ¡°Father, I entrust the n''s reconstruction to you. I have to make a trip to the imperial city and thoroughly uproot the Zhao n to eliminate all future threats.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Chen Zhengqing nodded.

    Chen Fan promptly grabbed Zhao Hong and soared into the sky, heading towards the imperial city.

    He had killed the Zhao n¡¯s higher-ups, but it was still a prestigious n with over a thousand years of lineage. They likely still had many other experts in the n. He needed to kill all of them to remove all future threats.

    He kept Zhao Hong alive to extract more information about the Zhao n from him.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Just as Chen Fan flew several miles away from Watermoon City, he abruptly halted mid-air.

    Ahead stood a figure: Nangong Baxiong.

    An unusual light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Still, he greeted, ¡°Uncle.¡±

    When Zhao Hong saw Nangong Baxiong, an incredulous look appeared in his eyes, and he shrieked, ¡°Nangong Baxiong!¡±

    Nangong Baxiong ignored Zhao Hong and fixed his gaze on Chen Fan. He said, ¡°You n to eradicate the Zhao n in the imperial city?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. If I don¡¯t remove all the roots, the grass will grow again when the spring breeze blows. I can¡¯t possibly stay with the n at all times. I need topletely wipe out the Zhao n to remove all future threats,¡± Chen Fan said, his tone dripping with murderous intent, which he made no attempts to hide.

    Nangong Baxiong said, ¡°As a prestigious n that has been in the imperial city for over a thousand years, the Zhao n''s foundations run deeper than what meets the eye.

    ¡°They still have a genuine Core Formation realm old ancestor, Zhao Dong. He should be at the peak of the first level and could potentially break through to the second level at any moment.

    ¡°Although you¡¯re powerful and can easily kill Illusory Core realm experts like Zhao Tianjue, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯re stillcking a littlepared to Zhao Dong.¡±

    ¡°Oh? The Zhao n has a genuine Core Formation realm expert!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank.

    Chen Fan was now quite a bit stronger than when he was in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, but he was indeed a bit weaker than someone at the peak of the first level like Zhao Dong.

    However, if he didn¡¯t go to the imperial city to wipe out the Zhao n, Zhao Dong would alsoe to Watermoon City. This was a troublesome matter.

    Seemingly seeing through Chen Fan¡¯s thoughts, Nangong Baxiong said, ¡°You should head back now. Zhao Dong has likely already sensed Zhao Tianjue''s death. He''s probably en route to Watermoon City as we speak. Leave him to me.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. Thank you very much, Uncle.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    He vaguely sensed that Nangong Baxiong had advanced to the fifth level of the Core Formation realm. The Fountain of Life droplet had proved useful, greatly increasing Nangong Baxiong¡¯s strength.

    Given Nangong Baxiong¡¯s current cultivation, he could easily kill someone at the peak of the first level, so Chen Fan was no longer worried.

    Zhao Hong¡¯s expression immediately changed. He roared furiously, ¡°How dare you, Nangong Baxiong!¡±

    ¡°Dare me?¡± Nangong Baxiong chuckled in disdain and said, ¡°What can you possibly do to me, even if I wipe out your Zhao n?¡±

    ¡°Alright, Zhao Hong. I let you live for quite a while longer. You should be content now. Rest assured, your entire n will go down with you and keep youpany.¡± Chen Fan''s voice turned icy as he unleashed a fatal blow, obliterating Zhao Hong without leaving a trace.

    "Then I''ll leave the matter of Zhao Dong to you, Uncle."

    ¡°Rest assured. Dealing with Zhao Dong will be child''s y.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing was confused when Chen Fan returned so swiftly. However, after thetter exined that someone would help deal with the Zhao n, Chen Zhengqing put down his worries and started focusing on restoring the Chen n mansion.

    Three dayster, the originally dpidated Chen n mansion gained a brand-new look and seemed even more magnificent than before.

 Chapter 365 - Return to Sect

    <h4>Chapter 365 - Return to Sect</h4>

    Chen Fan remained at the Chen n for two weeks, overseeing and guarding the n.

    ¡°Xiao Fan.¡± Chen Zhengqing walked over with a hint of excitement on his face and said, ¡°The scout we dispatched to the imperial city has returned with news."

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes and asked, ¡°What did they find?¡±

    Although Nangong Baxiong had said that he would deal with Zhao Dong, Chen Fan still had some concerns. So, he had sent a scout to investigate the matter.

    ¡°The Zhao n has fallen apart overnight!¡± Chen Zhengqing couldn''t contain his grin.

    Chen Fan also let out a sigh of relief. The overnight copse of the Zhao n indicated that Nangong Baxiong had likely fulfilled his promise to intercept and kill Zhao Dong.

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then. With the Zhao n gone, our Chen n won''t face any future threats."

    ¡°Exactly.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Father. I¡¯ll stay in the n for another half a month before returning to the sect.¡±

    With the Zhao n matter resolved, Chen Fan saw no reason to prolong his stay at the n.

    Moreover, it had been quite some time since hest visited the Spring Autumn Sect. It was about time he made his way back.

    ¡°Alright, now no threats are looming over our Chen n. Everyone saw you kill an Illusory Core realm expert, so the other ns would not dare to do anything to us. You can leave without any worries.¡±

    Another fortnight slipped by, and the day of Chen Fan''s departure arrived.

    ¡°Father, Grandfather, I¡¯m leaving.¡±

    ¡°Go on, no need to worry about the n. Cultivate well in the sect.¡±

    ¡°See you, Big Brother Chen Fan.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing, Chen Tianxiong, Chen Qingqing, and the others waved their farewells. Chen Fan didn''t linger¡ªit wasn''t the style of a martial artist.

    With his Wings of Rain Dragon unfurled, he blurred into motion, soaring into the sky with lightning speed, leaving behind the worries of the n and flying off toward the Spring Autumn Sect.

    High up in the air, fast as lightning, Chen Fan streaked across the blue sky like a roc as his mind kept racing.

    "My next step is to fully focus on advancing into the Core Formation realm."

    The numerous battles he had experienced benefitted him greatly. His primeval force was stable, his cultivation pure. Even when he returned to the sect, he could openly disy his strength; he no longer had to conceal it like he did in the past.

    Even Duan Jingtian would think twice before challenging him now.

    During the journey back, Chen Fan bitterly practiced his martial skills, going through Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes, Northern Star Reaper Hand, and even Great Brahma Sacred Palm repeatedly. He was refining his overall strength at every moment.

    Three dayster, he flew into the vicinity of the Spring Autumn Sect. Hended silently and walked toward the mountain entrance.

    As soon as he returned to the sect, Chen Fan overheard the disciples discussing the Fountain of Life incident as they bustled about.

    ¡°Haaa, the sect has already confirmed that Lei Tao, Chu Tiange, and the others are dead. Not even their corpses were left behind.¡±

    ¡°Seriously? Who could have killed them? Lei Tao went to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range to retrieve the Fountain of Life on Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s orders. Now that they¡¯re all dead, doesn¡¯t that mean the Fountain of Life is also gone?¡±

    ¡°Hoho, it¡¯s not just gone. Word is, Senior Brother Duan Jingtian went to the Fiendish Corpse Mountains and found that Lei Tao''s group had already fetched the water from the Fountain''s source. Someone must''ve crossed paths with them, killed them, and stolen Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s Fountain of Life.¡±

    ¡°What nerve they have! To even dare steal from Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. They must be tired of living!¡±

    ¡°True, but at the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, it''s a free-for-all. No one would even know if they took it. There¡¯s no way to start investigating, either.¡±

    ¡°Since the Fountain of Life is lost, does that mean Senior Brother Duan Jingtian won''t reach the ninth level of the Core Formation realm anytime soon?!¡±

    "Yeah, heard he was furious when he got back."

    ¡°......¡±

    Walking on the path, Chen Fan grinned gleefully inside when he heard the discussion.

    It had already been over half a year since he killed Lei Tao¡¯s group. He didn¡¯t expect Duan Jingtian to find out about their deaths only now.

    Such sluggishness in information retrieval was disappointing.

    However, as he imagined Duan Jingtian throwing a fit after losing the liquid from the Fountain of Life, a sense of pleasure washed over his heart.

    ¡°Eh? Look, it¡¯s Chen Fan. He¡¯s returned.¡±

    "He''s been gone for over half a year."

    "Well, what other choice does he have? It''s tough for him to move around the sect, so he had to train outside. I wonder what level he''s reached now."

    ¡°Who cares what his cultivation is? This guy is destined to die. He¡¯ll only stay alive for another year; he¡¯s no different from a corpse. Oh, right, the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition is in a month.¡±

    Some nced at Chen Fan before shifting their attention to the uingpetition.

    ¡°That''s right, thepetition happens every three years. This time, it¡¯s our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s turn to be the host.¡±

    ¡°I wonder who wille out on top this time?¡±

    ¡°We can forget about it. It always turns into a yground for the Illusory Core realm experts. The prize for the winner is an elixir that can help someone in the Illusory Core realm advance to the Core Formation realm. It¡¯s not something we can think about.¡±

    "Yeah, we''ll be lucky to earn more contribution points."

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered with interest when he overheard these people¡¯s conversation.

    ¡°Four Sects Martial Arts Competition?¡±

    Shaking his head, he came to Wei Buyu¡¯s residence.

    ¡°Master.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re back.¡± Wei Buyu''s gazended on Chen Fan, a glimmer of admiration shining in his eyes. ¡°Not bad, you¡¯ve reached the ninth level. Impressive. Truly impressive. Now, I''m beginning to believe you can indeed challenge Duan Jingtian within a year."

    Chen Fan smiled at Wei Buyu¡¯s words and said, ¡°Did youck confidence in me before?"

    "To be frank, yes," Wei Buyu confessed candidly. "Given the vast gap between your cultivations, I had my doubts. Catching up to him in three years seemed nearly impossible.

    ¡°But now that you¡¯ve broken through to the ninth level in such a short time, I¡¯m gaining some confidence in you. It seems you''ve encountered significant opportunities during your training outside."

    If Chen Fan had note across some huge opportunity, it would have been impossible for him to grow to this extent so quickly.

 Chapter 366 - Martial Arts Competition

    <h4>Chapter 366 - Martial Arts Competition</h4>

    ¡°Yes, I''ve had some fortunate encounters.¡± Chen Fan nodded, being open about it. He shared his experience in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm with Wei Buyu.

    Wei Buyu¡¯s eyes lit up, and he said, ¡°You actually went to the Wuning Empire just in time to enter the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. How truly unexpected. That exins why your cultivation rose so quickly. You truly are a blessed one.

    ¡°The news of the Nebulous Mysterious Realm reached the Great Chu Empire just recently. Many regret not seizing the opportunity, but you did. Not bad. Not bad, indeed.¡±

    Chen Fanughed lightly and said, ¡°I just got lucky.¡±

    Wei Buyu waved his hand and continued, ¡°Anyway, now that you¡¯re at the ninth level, the Core Formation realm is within sight. Conveniently, the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition is just a month away. You have heard of it, right?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°When I returned, I did overhear some people talking about it, though I¡¯m not clear on the specifics.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s quite straightforward. Every three years, the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Burning Incense Valley, Mountain River Sect, and our Spring Autumn Sect organize a grandpetition for their inner sect disciples. Each time, a different sect hosts it. This time, it''s our Spring Autumn Sect''s turn.

    ¡°Given your current cultivation level, you are likely at the top among the four sects¡¯ inner sect disciples, so you canpete for the top spot," Wei Buyu remarked. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you this in advance: thepetition winner will receive an Extreme Profound Elixir. This rare elixir can help an Illusory Core realm disciple advance to the Core Formation realm quickly. You can get to the Core Formation realm quite soon if you get it.¡±

    ¡°Extreme Profound Elixir...¡± Chen Fan repeated silently, his eyes gleaming with determination.

    He returned to the sect to prepare for breaking through to the Core Formation realm. So, he was now determined to take the top spot in this Four Sects Martial Arts Competition.

    ¡°How is it? Are you confident?¡± Wei Buyu smiled, looking at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan asked, ¡°Master, will the sects¡¯ holy disciples participate in thepetition?

    Wei Buyu shook his head and said, ¡°The four great sects¡¯ holy disciples will not be taking part. After all, they are Core Formation realm experts. The Extreme Profound Elixir isn¡¯t very useful to them.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then. As long as holy disciples are not participating in thepetition, I can take first ce.¡± Chen Fan appeared confident and sharp.

    The Extreme Profound Elixir was within his grasp. No one could wrest it away from him.

    ¡°Oh, you are quite confident. That¡¯s a good thing, but you¡¯d best not get careless.¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s expression became serious, and he urged, ¡°Although you''re at the ninth level, all four sects have Illusory Core realm disciples. They also want the Extreme Profound Elixir. After all, it can save them a year or so of bitter cultivation, allowing them to reach the Core Formation realm sooner and be a holy disciple.¡±

    "Please borate, Master." Chen Fan did not act arrogantly. Although he was strong and did not fear anyone in the Illusory Core realm, he remained cautious to avoid unforeseen setbacks.

    Chen Fan understood that anyone capable of reaching the Illusory Core realm was formidable, warranting his utmost vignce.

    ¡°I¡¯m not too sure about the situation in the other three sects, but I can advise you on potential adversaries within our Spring Autumn Sect," Wei Buyu offered.

    ¡°Please advise me, Master.¡±

    ¡°Firstly, there''s Yuan Kun, a core disciple from the Heaven''s Alliance," Wei Buyu said. ¡°He reached the Illusory Core realm three years ago and has been getting pointers and various treasures from Duan Jingtian. His illusory core is about sixty to seventy percent solid. He has powerful methods and can even exchange a few blows with a first-level Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°The second person is Xu Jing. She doesn¡¯t belong to any circles, but she has exceptional talent. Don¡¯t look down on her just because she¡¯s a woman; she possesses a unique bloodline. Her Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique is a middle-earth tier cultivation technique. She walks the path of strength, and her illusory core is fifty percent solid.[1]

    ¡°The third person is Xie Feng. He¡¯s also from the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, and his illusory core should be thirty to forty percent solid.

    ¡°And there¡¯s also...¡±

    Wei Buyu shared all he knew with Chen Fan, providing him with aprehensive understanding of the inner sect''s core disciples.

    Only a handful of the core disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect were in the Illusory Core realm.

    Take Yuan Kun, for example. He was close to reaching the Core Formation realm but could exchange blows with a first-level Core Formation realm expert. He was powerful.

    ¡°Thank you for the insights, Master, but rest assured, no one can wrest first ce from me in the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition!¡± Chen Fan sounded as confident as ever, his vigor unrivaled.

    ¡°It¡¯s great that you have such confidence. I believe in you, too,¡± Wei Buyu said, nodding. He could tell that it wasn¡¯t blind confidence but absolute confidence one had in their strength.

    ¡°Alright, there¡¯s still a month. Make good use of it to cultivate and improve yourself further to ensure your victory.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave, then.¡±

    Chen Fan left Wei Buyu¡¯s ce and returned to his loft. With every moment precious, he dedicated himself to practice.

    Although he had reached the ninth level quickly, the pressure he felt inside was still enormous.

    Advancing from the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm to the ninth level of the Core Formation realm in a little over a year was more than ten times harder than going from being a Qi Grandmaster to a ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    So, he could not afford to waste any time. He had to seize all opportunities that could increase his strength.

    ording to his estimation, if he wanted to advance to the Core Formation realm through regr cultivation, he would need half a year, and the Extreme Profound Elixir could save him more than half of that time.

    What he needed to do right now was to raise his cultivation level to the peak of the ninth level before the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition began.

    He could immediately try to advance to the Core Formation realm after obtaining the Extreme Profound Elixir, saving at least three to four months.

    ¡°Alright, I shall stay in my loft this month and silently cultivate to improve my cultivation further. In any case, I have enough demon cores.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered with light.

    He had three Illusory Core realm demon cores, which he got from the ancient piranha kings. A month was enough for him to push his cultivation to the peak of the ninth level.

    Just as Chen Fan was about to take out the demon core and start cultivating, his hands suddenly stopped. He slowly turned to look outside and said, ¡°Which senior brother hase to visit me?

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    The sound of wind resounded outside. A voice came in. ¡°Chen Fan,e out and receive your punishments for your sins!¡±

    1. Ksetra is a Sanskrit word that meansnd or domain. ?

 Chapter 367 - Call for Punishment?

    <h4>Chapter 367 - Call for Punishment?</h4>

    Amanding voice prated the air before Chen Fan could start cultivating, demanding he step out and receive his punishments.

    ¡°Chen Fan,e out at once! You need to be punished for your sins!¡±

    A cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Swiftly stowing away the demon cores, he exited his loft. Apanied by a gust of fierce wind, three figures descended from above, their presence formidable.

    They were two women and one man, exuding an imposing aura that marked them unmistakably as core disciples.

    Their clothing had a white-golden ¡®Spring¡¯ embroidered on them, symbolizing their status as core disciples. It was very sacred. Many disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect dreamed of it, as it also represented strength and authority.

    The nearby inner sect disciples swiftly bowed their heads in reverence, offering respectful salutations, ¡°Greetings, Senior Brother and Senior Sisters.¡±

    The sect itself valued core disciples highly and nurtured them with all kinds of resources, hoping to bring them up to the Core Formation realm. After all, Core Formation realm experts were the true pirs of the sect, known as the holy disciples.

    To most inner sect disciples, the aura and pressure of core disciples felt enormous. However, Chen Fan did not feel a thing.

    He had killed many high-level Yuanfu realm experts in the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. Every one of them could be a core disciple.

    Moreover, he had even killed Zhao Tianjue¡ªan Illusory Core realm expert¡ªwith a single punch. So, if the trio thought they could intimidate Chen Fan with their aura, they were simply delusional and overestimating themselves.

    If he spoke about how he fought Xue Tianhe¡ªa Core Formation realm expert¡ªin the Nebulous Mysterious Realm, wouldn¡¯t those three be frightened to the point of falling from the sky?

    Unfazed, Chen Fan said, ¡°Why are the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance looking for me?¡±

    Suddenly, one of the female disciples chided coldly, ¡°How dare a mere elite disciple like you not offer us a greeting! Who do you think you are! You can act like a tyrant in front of the outer sect disciples, but you dare act so rude in front of us?!¡±

    This female core disciple looked outstanding, withrge, round eyes and peach cheeks. She was holding a green sword, and its scabbard was made from some unknown demon beast¡¯s skin, with many gems embedded in it. It looked incredibly gorgeous and fluctuated with a powerful aura.

    The de''s sharpnessy dormant in the scabbard, yet asional wisps of sword qi would escape, sending shivers down the spines of onlookers.

    She seemed intent on disying her strength and teaching Chen Fan a little lesson.

    A wisp of sword qi suddenly emerged from her sword hilt. A brilliant light shed, coiling up and down around Chen Fan like a silver snake, trying to shave off his hair.

    Chen Fan held his index and middle finger together without a thought and caught the silver snake-like sword light. Despite its struggles, it couldn''t break free from his grip.

    In response, mes danced from his fingers, engulfing the silver serpent sword qi until it turned to ash.

    ¡°Senior Sister, your sword qi is a littlecking. It hardly poses a threat," Chen Fan remarked, pping his hands. ¡°Alright, I''m pressed for time and must return to cultivation. Speak your piece quickly; don''t waste my time."

    ¡°Hmm?¡± The female core disciple''s gaze flickered, seemingly failing to understand how he destroyed her sword qi. She was at the seventh level, so even a tiny bit of her should have been enough.

    ¡°I underestimated you! However, that was merely a test. Prepare yourself for my true strength. Let¡¯s see if you can take it.¡±

    The peach-faced woman was about to draw her sword, but the male core disciple stopped her and said, ¡°Hold on, Junior Sister Tao. This is the residential area of elite disciples. We¡¯re not here to fight. Don¡¯t be provoked, or you''ll be at a disadvantage.¡±

    He looked at Chen Fan sternly and said, ¡°Chen Fan, let me ask you. Are you involved in the incident with Lei Tao, Chu Tiange, and the others at the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range?¡±

    Upon hearing this, Chen Fan quickly grasped the situation. It turned out that they were suspicious of him.

    Naturally, he couldn''t confess. Responding coldly, he said, ¡°Lei Tao? Chu Tiange? Who? What''s that got to do with me?¡±

    ¡°Hmph! Half a year ago, Lei Tao and Chu Tiange, among others, were tasked by Senior Brother Duan Jingtian to retrieve the liquid from the Fountain of Life. However, not long ago, Senior Brother Duan Jingtian confirmed that they had died. Do you deny any involvement?" the man retorted.

    Chen Fanughed coldly and said, ¡°What kind of logic is that? They died at the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range because of their ipetence. How is that my problem? Moreover, they dared to go to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range when they were not strong enough. It''s their own folly. I¡¯d say that¡¯s just well-deserved.¡±

    The two female core disciples immediately angrily shouted. Cold auras surged from them.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    The male disciple¡¯s eyes also flickered with an icy light. He continued, ¡°No need for excuses. It''s no mere coincidence that you overheard our Heaven¡¯s Alliance members discussing their journey to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, and shortly after, you vanished from the sect. Care to exin that? Furthermore, our information confirms that your destination was the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. What do you have to say to that?"

    Chen Fan was shocked inside, as he hadn¡¯t expected the Heaven¡¯s Alliance to find so many leads. Still, he kept his facial expression in check and maintained his cold smile. ¡°Stop trying to drag my name through the mud. Your Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were weak and lost their lives at the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, and now you¡¯re trying to pin the me on me? What a farce.

    ¡°Alright, you can leave now. If you think I killed them, then bring out some proper evidence. It''s absurd to use me of murder without proof.¡± Chen Fan waved his hand like he was driving away some flies.

    ¡°I knew it, Senior Brother Zhang. This little bastard wouldn¡¯t admit to his crimes. Don¡¯t bother wasting your breath on him. Just capture him and hand him over to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. A soul search will reveal the truth,¡± said the peach-faced female core disciple coldly, her tone vicious.

    ¡°Junior Sister Tao has a point. Let¡¯s just grab him.¡± The other female core disciple chimed in coldly.

    ¡°Very well!¡± The male core disciple also turned red in anger at Chen Fan¡¯s tone. He seemed on the verge of erupting as he said, ¡°Fine, it¡¯s useless even if you deny it. We¡¯ll just capture you and search your soul.¡±

    The male core disciple immediately made a move.

    He aimed his hand at Chen Fan and grabbed at the empty air. Arge primeval force hand came down on Chen Fan like an eagle¡¯s w with overwhelming momentum.

    The male disciple was at the eighth level of the Yuanfu realm.

 Chapter 368 - Yuan Kun

    <h4>Chapter 368 - Yuan Kun</h4>

    The male core disciple disyed his powerful strength as an eighth-level Yuanfu realm expert as soon as he made a move, attacking in a domineering and ruthless manner.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°Hoho, you people from Heaven¡¯s Alliance are tyrannical.¡±

    A cold light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he faced the attacks. He drew his sword. A cold streak of sword light cut through space, cleaving the oing palm seal.

    The sword light didn¡¯t stop there; it rushed toward the male core disciple after neutralizing the palm strike.

    The sword''s edge whistled, menacingly sweeping across, making the male core disciple feel like death was beckoning him.

    ¡°Haaa!¡± He did not have time to think, so he unleashed and pushed his cultivation to the limit with a roar. His strength surged, and his primeval force rushed out, forming a wall of primeval force in front of him.

    The sword light fell onto the wall of primeval force and produced a resounding noise. Sparks flew everywhere, and cracks immediately spread on the wall.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The male core disciple spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood as he quickly drew back. As he looked at Chen Fan, horror flooded his eyes.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    ¡°Back off. If you don''t know your ce, I won''t hesitate to end you all right here. Do you think no one will dare to kill you just because you¡¯re in the Heaven¡¯s Alliance? I''ve dealt with more than a few like you.¡± [1]

    The three core disciples were rattled to their core by Chen Fan''s chilling words, his cold gaze instilling a sense of impending doom like death was gazing at them.

    ¡°You...¡± Therge, round-eyed, peach-faced female core disciple felt so frustrated that she wanted to vomit blood.

    ¡°What do you mean, you? You think I won¡¯t kill you just because you¡¯re a woman?¡± Chen Fan red at her fiercely, forcing her to swallow her words.

    The expression on the male disciple''s face changed several times before he said, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±

    ¡°Hmph.¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly, turned, and walked into his loft.

    The nearby crowd discussed among themselves, their eyes flickering with interest.

    ¡°Heavens, is this for real? He injured Zhang Tao and made him spew blood with one attack. How did he get so strong?¡±

    "The Heaven¡¯s Alliance surely won''t let this slide easily. They''ve suffered a significant blow.¡±

    ¡°Could it be true that Chen Fan messed up Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s n? What if he really killed Lei Tao and the others and took the Fountain of Life for himself?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? But it seems probable. How else can you exin his rapid progress? In just six months, he surpassed even Zhang Tao. How does that make sense?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Meanwhile, the two female disciples checked on Zhang Tao''s condition.

    ¡°How are you feeling, Senior Brother Zhang?¡± asked the peach-faced female core disciple.

    Zhang Tao shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just didn¡¯t expect that little bastard to be so strong. It seems there''s a link between his strength and the death of Lei Tao''s group. Otherwise, his progress is inconceivable."

    "Did you manage to gauge his true cultivation level?" inquired the other female disciple.

    Zhang Tao shook his head and said, ¡°No, but if my hunch is correct, he might be at the ninth level!"

    The two female disciples gasped in disbelief at the revtion.

    ¡°How is that possible? It hasn¡¯t even been two years, and he''s gone from being a Qi Grandmaster to being at the ninth level. Doesn¡¯t that mean...¡± Therge, round-eyed, peach-faced female core disciple''s disbelief was palpable.

    Zhang Tao smiled coldly and said, ¡°Hoho, even if his cultivation improved tremendously this past year, it still is impossible for him to defeat Senior Brother Duan Jingtian in a year.

    ¡°The gap in strength between each level in the Core Formation realm is immense, and progression is as challenging as reaching the heavens. Only exceptional geniuses like Senior Brother Duan Jingtian can reach the eighth level of the Core Formation realm before twenty-five. That guy simply doesn''t measure up," Zhang Tao exined.

    The peach-faced woman nodded in agreement. ¡°That¡¯s true. He¡¯s not even worthy of carrying Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s shoes!¡±

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go and find Senior Brother Yuan Kun first. There''s a strong likelihood that Chen Fan stole the Fountain of Life. He deserves nothing but death!¡± Zhang Tao said viciously.

    A single swing from Chen Fan had injured him and thrown him back in front of many people. That was undoubtedly very shameful.

    ......

    On a towering mountain, several figures stood at its peak, overlooking a bottomless cliff. These people¡¯s clothing fluttered in the wind as if they might be whisked away at any moment.

    These figures¡¯ temperaments were extremely outstanding, their cultivation deep and thick. Their gazes shed with pride.

    Leading them was a man with a schrly demeanor, d in blue garments that reflected his status as a qi cultivator. Despite his schrly appearance, hemanded the respect of many experts from the Heaven¡¯s Alliance.

    Behind him, a ck-clothed man said, ¡°Senior Brother Yuan Kun, there¡¯s still a month before the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition begins. Word is, the prize this time is an Extreme Profound Elixir."

    The schrly figure was Yuan Kun, an Illusory Core realm expert. He was themander of the core disciples within the Heaven''s Alliance.

    He was one of the people Duan Jingtian valued most highly. He led the entire Heaven¡¯s Alliance and had aplished many great feats.

    Three years ago, he had eradicated the seven great demonic martial artists upying the northeastern sea of forest, the Seven Evils of the Sea of Forest, single-handedly with his halberd.

    The Seven Evils of the Sea of Forest had seven people. They practiced a demonic cultivation technique that made them kill people to temper their souls. Theymitted all kinds of atrocities, and every one of them had incredibly high cultivation levels. Some were even at the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm.

    Their leader was said to be an Illusory Core realm expert; he formed an evil relic. He also obtained an ancient demonic secret manual¡ªa remnant scroll of the Myriad Evils Sutra.

    However, Yuan Kun alone wiped out those mighty demonic cultivators overnight. He achieved great fame in a single feat that spread throughout the Great Chu Empire.

    ¡°Extreme Profound Elixir, huh...¡±

    Yuan Kun looked at the vast sea of clouds. A sharp light shed in his eyes, and he said, ¡°This time, my only worthy opponent in thepetition from the Spring Autumn Sect is Xu Jing. Rumors have it that she possesses a trace of a dragon¡¯s bloodline and has mastered the ancient Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique, granting her formidable strength.¡±

    One of them ttered with a smile, ¡°Hoho, Xu Jing is indeed strong, but I still don¡¯t think she¡¯s a match for you, Senior Brother Yuan Kun. I think you will overwhelm allpetitors in the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, Senior Brother Yuan Kun.¡±

    Yuan Kun responded with a modest smile, though his confidence shone through. ¡°Overwhelm allpetitors? Easier said than done. Apart from Xu Jing, we mustn''t underestimate the top disciples from the other three sects."

    ¡°The Floating Cloud Sword Sect¡¯s Li Wangsheng, Burning Incense Valley¡¯s Yan Hong, and Mountain River Sect¡¯s Shangguan Yuhai. These three pose formidable challenges. They are also about to reach the Core Formation realm, so they are equally determined to im the Extreme Profound Elixir..."

    The sound of breaking wind suddenly rang out.

    ¡°Hmm, Zhang Tao and the others are here.¡±

    Sure enough, three figures swiftly approached,nding on the mountaintop tform. It was Zhang Tao and hispanions.

    1. He¡¯s not admitting to killing Lei Tao¡¯s group. In previous sect events, Chen Fan has already killed several Heaven¡¯s Alliance members openly. ?

 Chapter 369 - The Competition Begins

    <h4>Chapter 369 - The Competition Begins</h4>

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Zhang Tao and the two female core disciples flew to the tform on the mountain peak andnded.

    The trio immediately greeted Yuan Kun, ¡°Senior Brother Yuan Kun.¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡± Yuan Kun nodded and said, ¡°Speak. What brings you to me?¡±

    A hint of icy resentment flickered in Zhang Tao''s eyes as he replied, ¡°Senior Brother Yuan Kun, as you know, Junior Sister Tao, Junior Sister Yao, and I have been investigating the deaths of Lei Tao and the othe¡ª¡±

    A sharp light shed in Yuan Kun¡¯s eyes. He interrupted Zhang Tao and said, ¡°Oh, did you discover some leads? Their deaths are inconsequential; what matters is that someone dared to steal from Senior Brother Duan Jingtian!¡±

    "We have indeed uncovered some clues recently," Zhang Tao responded.

    ¡°borate. The Fountain of Life is crucial to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s cultivation. Your efforts in this matter will be generously rewarded,¡± Yuan Kun said.

    Zhang Tao said, ¡°We found out that after Lei Tao¡¯s group set off for the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, that little bastard Chen Fan overheard a conversation between our members and left the sect. Based on his trail, he also journeyed to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    ¡°Earlier, the junior sisters and I visited him to question him, but he was too arrogant andpletely disregarded our Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Most importantly, that little bastard¡¯s already at the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm!

    ¡°So, I¡¯m about eighty to ny percent sure that he stole the fountain liquid from us.¡±

    An icy, chilling light shot out from Yuan Kun¡¯s eyes. His terrifying Illusory Core realm pressure erupted, putting those nearby under heavy pressure.

    ¡°Is it really him?¡±

    Beads of sweat appeared on Zhang Tao¡¯s forehead. He nodded and said, ¡°Considering all the evidence we''ve gathered, there''s a strong likelihood, around eighty to ny percent. There¡¯s simply no other way to exin his cultivation speed.¡±

    A cold light shed in Yuan Kun¡¯s eyes; a short momentter, he asked, ¡°That¡¯s all nothing but words. Do we have any tangible evidence? Hard evidence that links him to the fountain and the deaths?¡±

    Zhang Tao shook his head and said, ¡°There isn¡¯t.¡±

    Yuan Kun frowned and said, ¡°Thatplicates things.¡±

    If they had solid evidence, he could immediately capture Chen Fan and call for his punishment without any dy, regardless of Wei Buyu''s interference.

    However, if he made a move against Chen Fan without any evidence, Wei Buyu could use that against him. Then, even Duan Jingtian wouldn¡¯t be able to save him.

    ¡°Forget it. Don¡¯t make a move on him for now. He is Wei Buyu¡¯s personal disciple and in the High Elder¡¯s faction. We¡¯ll have to take responsibility if we touch him without any evidence.¡±

    After pondering for a moment, Yuan Kun added, ¡°Besides, the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition is merely a month away. If you cross paths with him then, you''ll have the opportunity to settle the matter, and Wei Buyu won''t be able to intervene.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s our only option.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll just let that little bastard go free for a month.¡±

    The other executives of Heaven¡¯s Alliance nodded one after another, their eyes cold.

    ......

    The sun faithfully rose and set, continuing its endless cycle. As time passed, a month slipped away unnoticed.

    Summer faded into memory, yielding to the arrival of autumn. A chill rose across thends. The autumn wind blew everywhere. The nts rustled, showing a bleak scene.

    With the arrival of autumn, although thends appeared somber, the entire Spring Autumn Sect was extraordinarily lively. Countless inner sect disciples were boiling with excitement, eagerly anticipating the uing martial artspetition between the four great sects.

    Today, Chen Fan woke up early and leaped to the top of his loft, looking at the bustling inner sect. Streams of people flowed back and forth, with asional streaks of light darting across the sky andnding in the sect.

    asionally, he would see light clusters flying toward the amodations the Spring Autumn Sect had arranged for their guests. They were all disciples from the three other great sects.

    Meanwhile, numerous elders stood watch from a distance, tirelessly receiving the influx of guests.

    Sometimes, Chen Fan sensed powerful auras shaking the heavens but saw no one. However, he knew that it signaled the arrival of a Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°Core Formation realm...¡± A sharp light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°The martial artspetition is a rare and grand asion for all four sects. Even their respective Sect Leaders would show up, though I wonder if I can see them this time?¡±

    The leaders of the four great sects all had cultivations above the Core Formation realm, standing as formidable beings in the Divine Nascent realm. Their strength was awe-inspiring, capable of reshapingndscapes with a mere gesture.

    Under normal circumstances, even core disciples or holy disciples rarely had the opportunity to meet their Sect Leader.

    Chen Fan had never seen a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse before. Thus, he couldn''t help but feel a surge of anticipation.

    Looking at the bustling crowd in the distance, Chen Fan suddenly felt the urge to roar to the skies.

    After a month of undisturbed cultivation, he was now at the peak of the ninth level. He stood on the brink of condensing an Illusory Core, his cultivation unusually robust.

    He could even deal with a Core Formation realm expert at the peak of the first level now. Moreover, his martial arts had seen remarkable improvement over the past month.

    Although he hadn¡¯t mastered Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes, each thrust of his spear now fragmented into sixty to seventy spear silhouettes, demonstrating incredible power.

    Simrly, his proficiency with the Northern Star Reaper Hand had grown substantially. It could be said that he had achieved minor mastery of the technique.

    As for the Great Brahma Sacred Palm, although he had only scratched the surface, he had already gleaned significant insights into its workings.

    All in all, his strength had improved by a lot.

    Suddenly, the sound of horns being blown could be heard in the distance.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Intense war drum beats also rang out, dispersing the clouds in the sky.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump. Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    The autumn windpletely calmed down amidst the beats of the war drums. The sun''s rays were hitting the ground, and everyone felt their blood boiling.

    ¡°It¡¯s the beating of the heavenly dragon war drums, the call to gather!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze became stern. It was a rallying call, summoning all inner sect disciples to gather at the central battlefield for the start of the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition.

    ¡°No matter who it is, no one can stop me from taking the top spot!¡±

    A sharp light appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes and shot out, nearly piercing through space. It was very fierce.

    He was determined to get first ce in the martial artspetition!

 Chapter 370 - A Gathering of Talents

    <h4>Chapter 370 - A Gathering of Talents</h4>

    The heavenly dragon war drums echoed, stirring the crowd''s excitement and passion.

    All the inner sect disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect began converging towards the central battlefield.

    At the heart of the Spring Autumn Secty the central battlefield, inessible during ordinary times, only opening for significant events or sect gatherings.

    It was vast, majestic, and incredibly sturdy, constructed from mysterious materials. ording to some rumors, not even Core Formation realm experts could damage the battlefield if they fought in it.

    Despite being an inner sect member for over a year, Chen Fan had only heard tales of the central battlefield and neverid eyes on it. Today, amidst the thunderous drumming, Chen Fan joined the crowd heading toward it.

    Amidst the resounding beats of the war drums, a light streak suddenly soared into the sky.

    It slowly descended into a vast space amidst ancient temples and castles, revealing a colossal oval arena surrounded by densely packed stands amodating over a hundred thousand spectators.

    From all directions, a steady stream of people flowed into the arena, with powerful experts already seated atop the highest stands, exuding formidable auras.

    The highest stands remained shrouded to conceal the appearance of their upants. Only Core Formation realm experts could enjoy the privilege of sitting in the highest stands.

    Chen Fan looked at the crowds and found that distinct groups were easily identifiable.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect¡¯s disciples all had a sword embroidered on their clothing.

    The Mountain River Sect¡¯s disciples had patterns of mountains, rivers, andkes embroidered on their clothing.

    The Burning Incense Valley''s disciples were distinguishable by the embroidery of incense burners emitting green spirals of smoke on their attire.

    Others, dressed differently and unaffiliated with the three major sects, represented various lesser-known factions and rogue cultivators who had gathered to witness the event. After all, the martial artspetition among Qingyang County''s four great sects was indeed a grand affair.

    While no other top sects were expected to attend, lesser-known sects and independent cultivators with considerable strength had been invited. They could also bring their disciples toe watch and learn a thing or two. Moreover, if there were some geniuses in these less reputable sects, they could join thepetition to test their skills.

    Amidst the bustling crowd, Chen Fan found the spectacle quite dazzling. He found it difficult to tell people apart in the chaos, feeling disoriented.

    Experts with surging auras were everywhere, as dense as the clouds. The primeval qi of heaven and earth was in disarray.

    Suddenly, a voice came from a token on him. ¡°Elite disciples of Spring Autumn Sect,e gather over here and wait for instructions. Don¡¯t scatter around.¡±

    Chen Fan hurriedly took out the token; it represented his identity as an elite disciple.

    The token was carved out of beautiful jade, with celestial patterns and shimmering with spiritual radiance. Endowed with remarkable abilities, it could also transmit voices.

    The voice from the tokens was an order sent by the elders of the Spring Autumn Sect. They worked together to activate the guiding aura for the many participants.

    Following the guiding aura, Chen Fan located a spacious area within the central battlefield amidst the bustling crowd, where even the sky seemed crowded with onlookers.

    Soon, he spotted many elders of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    All the elite disciples of the sect were gathered here and seated upright like a firm mountain, calm and focused. None of them made a noise, seemingly preserving their energy for the battles ahead.

    The significance of the uingpetition couldn''t be overstated.

    Sess promised substantial rewards from the sect, motivating each disciple to strive for victory in every match.

    ¡°Everyone, you¡¯re all elite disciples of our Spring Autumn Sect, and you will soon be fighting against the elite disciples of the other sects. Thispetition is unprecedentedly grand, so the rewards awaiting you are equally exceptional.

    ¡°Your first win earns you a hundred contribution points. The second doubles it to two hundred, followed by four hundred for the third, and eight hundred for the fourth, escting with each victory.

    ¡°If you win against the core disciples of the other sects, the amount of contribution points you¡¯ll obtain will exceed your imagination!¡±

    Suddenly, the elite disciples¡¯ eyes shot open, showing iparable interest and excitement.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The substantial rewards on offer undoubtedly stirred deep motivation within each participant.

    In the Spring Autumn Sect, contribution points were a form of hard currency. As long as one had enough contribution points, they could obtain everything.

    One could even use them to have the sect¡¯s Grand Elders or even the Sect Leader offer them pointers.

    However, such privileges demanded an exorbitant amount of contribution points. Even holy disciples likely didn¡¯t have enough contribution points to ask the Sect Leader for advice on their cultivation.

    Chen Fan was also excited inside. <i>Nice! I didn¡¯t expect the sect to invest so heavily in this!</i>

    He had been in the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s inner sect for over a year. Chen Fan had umted some contribution points, which he exchanged for thest three styles of the Undefeated King''s Fist. However, these points flowed like water through his hands.

    Had he not ventured outside the sect to train and gather resources, opting instead to cultivate within the sect, he probably wouldn¡¯t even have reached the fifth level.

    He didn¡¯t really need those resources since he practiced the Heaven Seizing Art. Or to put it another way, the resources he needed were too great; a tiny amount of contribution points was simply useless.

    Instead of wasting timepleting missions to earn a few dozen contribution points, it would be better for him to go out and hunt demon beasts and swallow their demon cores. His cultivation would rise faster that way.

    Moreover, he had to maintain a low profile. umting arge number of contribution points would have required him to eliminate powerful evildoers. That would have drawn attention very easily and caused a huge storm.

    But now, he no longer needed to conceal his abilities. He could openly disy his strength and earn contribution points without fear.

    <i>Dang, dang, dang...</i>

    As the bell tolled, signaling the start of the event, the war drums faded into silence. Its serene chimes had a calming effect, quieting the bustling crowd.

    Chen Fan nced over to the dense crowd. Many of them had channeled their cultivation to envelope themselves, twisting the space. It was impossible to discern individuals amidst the swirling energies.

    He wanted to identify any formidable experts present, but the current circumstances made it impossible.

    Moreover, he could not fly into the sky. An absolute power had bound the space, preventing people from flying around.

    All he could do right now was wait.

    Wait for the battle to begin.

    As for the battle itself, Chen Fan was not worried about it at all. Directions would be provided on his elite disciple token, guiding him through the proceedings.

    Suddenly, four distinct voices resonated throughout the vast battlefield.

    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, the martial artspetition jointly organized by the four great sects of Qingyang County¡ªSpring Autumn Sect, Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Mountain River Sect, and Burning Incense Valley¡ªwill nowmence...¡±

 Chapter 371 - Instantly Defeated with a Finger

    <h4>Chapter 371 - Instantly Defeated with a Finger</h4>

    When the crowd heard the four voices, they felt like they were gazing upon a towering mountain. Their tone exuded a grandeur that didn''t impose but rather emanated a sense of sanctity, as if the silhouettes of four saints had appeared in the minds of everyone, eliciting reverence.

    Chen Fan was sitting upright on a seat, staring fixedly at the source of the voices. He only saw four blurry figures high up in the clouds, their features beyond recognition.

    ¡°The Sect Leaders of the sects.¡±

    Yet, the sheer power radiating from those four blurry figures made one lower their heads involuntarily in worship.

    The sect leaders did not allow others to see their true appearances; they perpetuallymanded reverence akin to saints. They had attained the venerable status of Divine Nascent beings.

    As soon as the first words came out from their mouths, countless protective light shields suddenly rose in the middle of the battlefield, condensing into a thousand fighting rings.

    Every ring was an independent, tiny space that could allow thousands of people topete at the same time. Without this arrangement, the inner disciples of the four sects would spend an eternity engaging one by one.

    A voice chimed in beside Chen Fan.

    ¡°Brother Chen Fan, the rewards are so generous this time. Aren¡¯t they simply using our greed to make us fight with all we have? Heard you sent Zhang Tao packing with just one swing of your swordst month. With skills like that, you''re bound to outshine many core disciples this time, raking in a fortune."

    Chen Fan turned to see Mu Chen, Lu Yun, and the others. It had been over a year. Memories of wiping out the blood-sucking bandits in the northwesternnds flooded his mind.

    Chen Fan nodded in a friendly manner and saw through their cultivations with a single nce. ¡°Your cultivations aren¡¯t bad, either. You¡¯re already at the second level.¡±

    When they had been in the northwesternnds, they had been Qi Grandmasters. They were now elite disciples of the inner sect.

    Lu Yun smiled bitterly and said, ¡°We can''t hold a candle to your cultivation. Winning a round or two in thispetition would be enough for us. We''re not aiming any higher."

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯ve truly seen for myself what the saying ¡®teeming with experts¡¯ means today. Our modest cultivation puts us at the bottom of the pile here," added Mu Chen, shaking his head ruefully.

    ¡°No need to undersell yourselves. Everyone''s journey holds its own opportunities. While your current cultivation levels may not seem high, who''s to say what the future holds?¡± Chen Fan said inly, ¡°Your fate is in your own hands. Maintain the resolve to grow stronger, work step by step, and you''ll surely emerge as formidable experts in time.¡±

    ¡°Hopefully, your wordse true, Brother Chen. Our aim in thispetition is modest¡ªto not face defeat in our first match.¡±

    Mu Chen and the others¡¯ gazes became a little sharper.

    Chen Fan nodded, withdrawing his gaze. The battlefield fell into profound silence.

    Momentster, the martial artspetitionmenced.

    Chen Fan was currently an elite disciple. Although he was at the ninth level, he couldn¡¯t join the core disciples¡¯ battles for now since he didn¡¯t undergo the examination to be a core disciple.

    However, as long as he won against all the other elite disciples, he could eventually earn the right to challenge core disciples, ruing even more contribution points.

    So, he waited patiently. Soon, he sensed a wisp of aura from his token telling him to go forward. He leaped forth and entered the huge battlefield.

    The space changed in an instant.

    What appeared from the outside was but a fraction of the vast, independent space within¡ªa world unto itself.

    As soon as Chen Fan entered the first independent space, a figure darted forth, d in the uniform of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    ¡°Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Wang Zhongtian!¡±

    Wang Zhongtian was a man about twenty years old; he appeared cold and proud. His aura surging, he pointed his sword straight at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Admit your defeat now, or I¡¯ll have you know what boundless pain means!¡±

    "What arrogance!" said Chen Fan.

    A weaker person would have immediately cowered under Wang Zhongtian¡¯s aura, exposing an opening during battle and getting defeated.

    This tactic also involved leveraging their aura to assert dominance over their opponent, inducing feelings of intimidation or impatience. As a result, their opponent''s primeval qi would flow less efficiently, and they would struggle to maintain aposed state of mind.

    Yet, such ploys seemed futile against Chen Fan.

    All he had to do was look at Wang Zhongtian once, and he knew that his opponent was merely at the third level. His sword qi was fierce;pared to Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, that was less than nothing. He could kill Wang Zhongtian by blowing hard.

    Chen Fan chuckled lightly. He stepped forward, drawing a circle with his finger. Then, a wisp of primeval force shot out, its momentum like lightning. It instantly shattered Wang Zhongtian¡¯s sword.

    ¡°You¡ª¡± Before he could finish his sentence, Wang Zhongtian flew back and fell to the ground, spewingrge mouthfuls of fresh blood and suffering heavy injuries to his meridians.

    Chen Fan pointed with his finger once more, searching for his opponent¡¯s token, and flicked out, shattering it.

    Immediately, he heard a voice that dered, ¡°First round, Spring Autumn Sect, Chen Fan wins!¡±

    The criteria for victory or defeat in these battles was the destruction of the opponent''s token.

    Once a token was broken, the central battlefield''s unique power dered the defeat of its owner. Surrender or abandonment of the token was also permissible.

    After defeating Wang Zhongtian effortlessly, Chen Fan was transported out by a power and returned to his seat.

    Surveying the elite disciples'' section, he found it vacant. It seemed that everyone had entered the battlefield and were engaged in difficult fights.

    After all, almost no other elite disciples were as strong as Chen Fan; he had strengthparable to top core disciples but had yet to apply for their promotion. Moreover, it was even rarer for someone to instantly defeat an opponent in the same cultivation level with a single move.

    Thepetition among the average disciples would undoubtedly continue for some time before victors emerged.

    Unmoving, Chen Fan sat upright in his seat. He ignored everything happening around him, quietly waiting for the next battle.

 Chapter 372 - There Is Always Someone Stronger

    <h4>Chapter 372 - There Is Always Someone Stronger</h4>

    Many elite disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect emerged from the battlefield in session before long. Some were carried out, while others seemed jubnt, signifying their victories.

    Chen Fan also saw Mu Chen, Lu Yun, and the others.

    Mu Chen and Lu Yun were glowing with smiles on their faces, but Wei Rufeng looked miserable and depressed.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Congrattions.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Mu Chen and the others nodded.

    Chen Fan looked at Wei Rufeng and said, ¡°A defeat in this martial artspetition does not mean anything. Consider it a means to hone your skills. There''s ample time ahead to improve.¡±

    Mu Chen and Lu Yun nodded repeatedly. They patted Wei Rufeng¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°Chen Fan is right; don''t take this defeat to heart. You still have a long time ahead of you.¡±

    Wei Rufeng nodded, but his expression remained sullen.

    Chen Fan did not harp on any further. He turned to Mu Chen and Lu Yun and warned, ¡°You guys should also be careful. This event carries considerable risk; your lives are at stake.¡±

    In such arge-scale martial artspetition, fatalities were not umon.

    If the disciples died in their matches, the four great sects would not pursue the matter. However, the backers of the fallen disciples would surely seek revenge in the future. Hence, participants often exercised restraint to avoid escting feuds.

    However, if two people with existing feuds met in thepetition, then it would turn into a fight to the death.

    For example, if Chen Fan encountered an alliance member, he would never show them any mercy.

    The first round ofpetition concluded, leaving a myriad of emotions in its wake. Sadness, joy, worry, grief, unease, and confidence mingled among the participants.

    Countless emotions hovered over the skies of the central battlefield. Chen Fan felt the emotions and grounded his thoughts again.

    Meanwhile, a different kind of conversation was happening at the highest stands shrouded by the curtains of light.

    Chen Fan could not see the Core Formation experts or the other higher-ups. However, they could see every detail, including the battles on the battlefield.

    Behind the curtains of light was an independent, temporary space. The unique space was created by thebined might of its upants.

    The Core Formation realm Grand Elders of the Spring Autumn Sect were all gathered there.

    Gathered within were the esteemed Grand Elders of the Spring Autumn Sect, alongside rarely seen figures like Wei Buyu, Chen Muyang, and Elder Liehuo. [1]

    Sitting next to these Core Formation realm experts were the holy disciples. Each of them had solemn expressions on their faces like they were wood blocks.

    Alongside the Spring Autumn Sect''s elders sat counterparts from other sects, sect masters, and cult leaders, as well as invited rogue cultivators. [ref] Sect masters as in outer sect master and inner sect master.[\ref]

    However, the Sect Leaders of the four great sects did not show up in this space.

    The voice earlier hade from a faraway location through a supreme voice transmission art.

    A dragged-out voice came from below. ¡°Reporting!¡±

    Four silhouettes entered the space. They were holy disciples at the first level of the Core Formation realm. They had been collectively appointed by the four great sects to oversee the tournament''s progress.

    ¡°The results for the first round are out. Currently, the Floating Cloud Sword Sect leads in advancing contestants, followed by the Spring Autumn Sect, Burning Incense Valley, and Mountain River Sect.¡±

    Simultaneously, they ryed the standings to the assembled grand elders from each sect.

    ¡°Haha, it seems that our Floating Cloud Sword Sect will keep this lead until the end.¡± The Floating Cloud Sword Sect¡¯s grand elders allughed.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect, rooted in the path of the sword, predominantly nurtured sword cultivators. Sword cultivators had high attack power, so when fighting those at the same cultivation level, they usually came out on top.

    Therefore, the results of the first round were within the expectations of the grand elders.

    ¡°Is that so? Quantity is secondary in thispetition. True greatness lies in producing exceptional talents. Not even a hundred thousand elite disciples can match up to a single true exceptional genius,¡± said a grand elder of the Mountain River Sect. There was a divine halo at the back of his head; he looked like a deity resting in the mortal world.

    He smiled coldly and said, ¡°Our sect has unearthed such talents this time. Who''s to say your Floating Cloud Sword Sect won''t falter, making way for our disciples to im the top spots?"

    ¡°That is impossible.¡± A grand elder of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect smiled inly. ¡°We¡¯ll have to see who¡¯s stronger.¡±

    ¡°No need for all this. We¡¯ll find out which sect¡¯s genius is stronger very soon. I¡¯m sure you people still remember Yun He, an inner court disciple of our Burning Incense Valley, from thest martial artspetition. He defeated many Yuanfu realm experts when he was just a Qi Grandmaster. He is now at the eighth level of the Yuanfu realm. He¡¯ll win the top prize. Not even Illusory Core realms are his match,¡± said a grand elder from Burning Incense Valley.

    When it came to determining seniority among the four esteemed ns, the sess of any disciple reflected honor upon the entire sect.

    ¡°In that case, let''s see whose genius shines brighter! Pass down the order. Continue thepetition!¡± The numerous grand elders of the Spring Autumn Sect waved their hands fiercely.

    The melodious chimes of the bell resounded once more, signaling the resumption of intense battles.

    Chen Fan stood up, followed the guidance from his token, and entered the space in the central battlefield again.

    His second-round opponent soon appeared¡ªa youth even younger than himself. He appeared mature and steady and seemed about fifteen or sixteen years old. However, his eyes were very stern. He looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Burning Incense Valley, Ren Yihang, please instruct me.¡±

    Instantly, a formidable aura enveloped the teenager. Behind him, a majestic tiger manifested from his primeval energy, radiating unparalleled strength.

    Ren Yihang moved, disappearing from his spot. He reappeared behind Chen Fan and attacked. ¡°ck Tiger Rips Heart!¡±

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s aura erupted as soon as he unleashed his attack. A terrifying force spread, generating ripples, and collided with Ren Yihang¡¯s attack.

    Like a block of tofu smashing onto a rock, it broke apart. The ferocious tiger at his back also dispersed with a whimper.

    Ren Yihang did not even have the time to react to the situation before an object in his possession shattered¡ªit was his token.

    Chen Fan noticed that the teen still wanted to attack, so he said indifferently, ¡°You¡¯ve lost. No need to fight anymore. I don¡¯t wish to hurt anyone.¡±

    Ren Yihang¡¯s face was filled with shock, as he had just realized his token had shattered. His eyes immediately went wide, and he roared furiously, ¡°How is this possible?! You just channeled your aura! How can that break my token?! How are you even an elite disciple with that cultivation? I can defeat core disciples, people at the fifth level. How can you be stronger than me?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s always someone stronger,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, and he left the ce with a sh.

    1. Chen Muyang is Chen Changfeng¡¯s grandfather, while Elder Liehuo appeared in 221 as a spectator in Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya¡¯s duel. ?

 Chapter 373 - Paramita Divine Flower

    <h4>Chapter 373 - Paramita Divine Flower</h4>

    Many elite disciples were in a state of unrest after this round of battles ended.

    Chen Fan defeating Burning Incense Valley¡¯s Ren Yihang had caused a small sensation within some circles.

    ¡°What? Ren Yihang lost in the second round?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t he stumbled upon an ancient opportunity and mastered the Grand Tiger''s Might Cultivation Technique? That¡¯s a lower-earth tier cultivation technique! It can unleash the formidable strength of a ferocious tiger and captivate others'' minds. It''s powerful enough for him to challenge those with higher cultivation levels. And he was defeated?¡±

    ¡°Hoho, hidden dragons and crouching tigers are everywhere in the Tianwu Continent. Ren Yihang is undoubtedly among the elite disciples, but there''s always someone stronger. Who is to say there isn¡¯t an elite disciple stronger than him?¡±

    ¡°Tch, I heard that he was defeated by someone from the Spring Autumn Sect who is pretending to be an elite disciple. He is actually as strong as core disciples.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Ren Yihang had gained some renown among the four major sects. He was hailed as a genius and hade across many fortuitous encounters in the past.

    One such stroke of luck was mistakenly entering an untouched ancient ruin and acquiring its legacy. Since then, his cultivation had soared, making him formidable. Very few among those in the same cultivation level were a match for him.

    He was a rising star¡ªa true genius.

    The members of Burning Incense Valley had ced high expectations on Ren Yihang.

    However, he suffered a swift defeat early in the second round. The defeat had been so swift that he didn''t evene close to touching Chen Fan''s robes before his token broke.

    If Chen Fan hadn¡¯t shown mercy, he would have died right there.

    Of course, the vast difference in strength between him and Chen Fan was a significant factor.

    ¡°What, Ren Yihang lost?¡±

    This loss sent shockwaves through the hearts of Burning Incense Valley''s grand elders seated high in the stands. Their faces were filled with disbelief.

    After all, they had been confident Ren Yihang would fight his way into the battles of the core disciples as an elite disciple. Losing in the second round seemed utterly imusible.

    ¡°What exactly is going on?¡±

    The elders were bewildered, but soon someone reported, ¡°It¡¯s an elite disciple from the Spring Autumn Sect by the name of Chen Fan. He defeated Ren Yihang cleanly. Here are the images copied earlier using the Shadow Form Technique.¡±

    The images of Ren Yihang¡¯s defeat appeared in front of the many elders once more.

    Ren Yihang unleashed his cultivation, appeared behind Chen Fan, and executed the move ck Tiger Rips Heart. However, Chen Fan suddenly unleashed his cultivation. A terrifying force burst out from him and spread out, shattering Ren Yihang¡¯s cultivation and token at once. It was simply unbelievable. He did not even lift a finger.

    ¡°This...¡± The elders were dumbfounded.

    The expressions of several elders from the Burning Incense Valley darkened. They looked toward the Spring Autumn Sect, and one of them said, ¡°Hoho, fellow Daoist brothers, from what I saw, this disciple named Chen Fan is at least at the eighth level. He¡¯s only an elite disciple with that kind of cultivation?¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s elders looked at one another, unsure of how to respond.

    Chen Fan''s strength had indeed been beyond what one would expect from an elite disciple.

    He defeated a genius like Ren Yihang with just the shockwaves produced by his surging cultivation. It truly made no sense.

    ¡°<i>Cough, cough</i>...¡± Wei Buyu coughed dryly and said hesitantly, ¡°That... Brother Fengyun, that kid has been cultivating outside the sect. He only returned recently and hasn''t undergone the examination to be promoted to a core disciple.¡±

    ¡°Hmph, what a feeble excuse!¡± The Burning Incense Valley¡¯s Fengyunzi snorted coldly.

    Wei Buyu responded, ¡°There are hidden dragons and crouching tigers everywhere in this martial artspetition. I saw that all four sects have some people at the level of core disciples but have yet to be promoted themselves.¡±

    An elder from the Spring Autumn Sect said, ¡°Chen Fan''s cultivation surpasses Ren Yihang''s by a significant margin, making his victory seem effortless. So, this isn¡¯t anything big. I doubt his dominance willst long. Sooner orter, someone else will defeat him.¡±

    This elder wasn¡¯t any random person, but Chen Muyang, Chen Changfeng¡¯s grandfather.

    Wei Buyu¡¯s eyes shed. Chen Muyang belonged to the sect¡¯s neutral faction.

    ¡°Chen Muyang, are you implying my disciple will be defeated soon?¡± Wei Buyu asked.

    ¡°Of course.¡± Chen Muyang answered, ¡°Perhaps he''llst a dozen or so rounds, advancing to the level of core disciples, but he won¡¯t get to the end. He probably won¡¯t even enter the top hundred.¡±

    ¡°Oh? If you are that confident, why don¡¯t we make a bet? I bet that Chen Fan will at least reach the top three in thispetition!¡± Wei Buyu dered boldly.

    ¡°What? Wei Buyu, do you think this is a dream? Hidden dragons and crouching tigers, have you forgotten? Many participants are at the ninth level, and there are ten in the Illusory Core realm. Where did you find that confidence of yours to believe he¡¯ll enter the top three!¡± Chen Muyang snorted.

    The grand elders from the sect leader¡¯s faction shook their heads one after another, also disagreeing with Wei Buyu.

    ¡°Hoho, I also heard that this child repelled Zhang Tao with a single strike; he seems to have decent strength. Still, he should be at the ninth level at most. When considering all the core disciples from the four great sects, he just doesn''t stand out," said an elder from the sect leader¡¯s faction.

    The elders from the other three great sects engaged in discussions among themselves, scoffing at Wei Buyu''s ims.

    "Exactly. There''s no shortage of potential among the core disciples. We have over ten in the Illusory Core realm," another elder added. ¡°Not only that, Yuan Kun, Yan Hong, Li Wangsheng, and Shangguan Yuhai all have sixty to seventy percent solid illusory cores. They can exchange blows with Core Formation realm experts for a short period.¡±

    ¡°Wei Buyu, thinking your disciple can overwhelm a sea of geniuses... That¡¯s just blind arrogance. Are you just trying to cause a stir?¡±

    ¡°And why should we believe him when even the elders from his sect don¡¯t agree? Ignore him, I say.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wei Buyu snorted coldly. It contained immense power that filled the entire space, shocking the crowd. ¡°Cut the crap. Do you dare to bet, Chen Muyang?¡±

    Before his voice fell, Wei Buyu flipped his palm, and a bowl-sized flower appeared in it. The entire space almost lost its colors.

    A profound energy pulsed across the surface of the freshly bloomed flower. Its petals gleamed with a golden hue, reminiscent of pure gold but slightly softer. Anyone whoid eyes on this flower would feel as if they had transcended spiritually.

    Nestled within the center of the flower petals appeared to be a minuscule living creature.

    ¡°Paramita Divine Flower!¡± [1]

    The crowd in this space nearly shot up to their feet.

    ¡°This ancient divine flower can help Core Formation realm experts cultivate a divine nascent, thereby enhancing their chances of advancing to the next realm. They were incredibly rare even during ancient times. How did you obtain it?¡±

    1. P¨¡ramit¨¡ or p¨¡ram¨© is a Sanskrit word. It is a Buddhist term often tranted as ¡®perfection¡¯. ?

 Chapter 374 - Swift Blade Lin Qi

    <h4>Chapter 374 - Swift de Lin Qi</h4>

    ¡°That¡¯s right, it is a Paramita Divine Flower.¡± Wei Buyu said, ¡°As for its origin, it''s not something you need to worry about. My question is simple: do you dare to wager against me using this flower? The bet is whether Chen Fan can secure a spot in the top three!¡±

    ¡°Count me in!¡± eximed a grand elder from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect, promptly taking out a precious treasure.

    ¡°I¡¯ll bet as well," Fengyunzi chimed in, eyeing the Paramita Divine Flower with a hint of greed. "I''ll put forth the Wind and Cloud Banner as my stake..."

    "I''m game too," added several elders in session, all eager to im Wei Buyu''s flower.

    After all, that flower was an unparalleled treasure. It could help experts strengthen their divine souls and increase their chances of advancing to the Divine Nascent realm. One could only imagine how attractive it was to these Core Formation realm grand elders.

    Were it not in Wei Buyu''s possession, some might have resorted to outright force to obtain it.

    Who among them did not wish to break through to the Divine Nascent realm?

    However, reaching the Divine Nascent realm was too difficult. Without a strong enough divine soul, they might even perish while trying to break through.

    However, with this Paramita Divine Flower to strengthen their divine souls and give birth to a divine nascent, their chances of breaking through to the next realm would increase by thirty to forty percent. It was simply an item to die for.

    ¡°Very well! With so many people present here today, I¡¯m sure none of you will renege on your bets. Let¡¯s wait and see.¡± Wei Buyu¡¯s expression changed subtly, and he sat down in the space. His expression didn¡¯t change as he continued to watch the ongoing battles.

    Chen Fan knew nothing about the bet, and he focused wholeheartedly on the battles.

    He sent a Mountain River Sect disciple flying with a palm strike, making them spew arge mouthful of fresh blood and defeating another in one move.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Dong Wanshan, a Floating Cloud Sword Sect disciple at the fifth level, trained extensively in the outside world. He rarely returned to the sect and had yet to get promoted to being a core disciple. He, too, found himself bested by Chen Fan''s palm strike and promptly conceded defeat.

    <i>Dong!</i>

    Next, Cheng Yi, a Spring Autumn Sect disciple at the fifth level and an alliance member, threatened Chen Fan as soon as he entered the stage. He demanded that Chen Fan surrender or the Heaven¡¯s Alliance wouldn¡¯t let him off.

    ¡°Hoho, you seem a bit ignorant. Have you heard about the guy who injured Zhang Tao with a sh? You likely don¡¯t. If you did, you wouldn¡¯t have made a fuss in front of me.¡± Chen Fanughed coldly.

    ¡°What?!¡± Cheng Yi¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    Chen Fan did not waste any time talking. He flicked his finger, sending out a wisp of sword qi that swiftly destroyed Cheng Yi¡¯s protective primeval force. Next, it rushed into Cheng Yi, cutting and twisting his meridians. He copsed onto the stage, writhing in agony before being carried away.

    As the rounds of thepetition continued, day turned into night.

    The inner sect disciples from the four major sects engaged in fierce battles across the central battlefield. Victories and eliminations unfolded with each passing moment.

    Chen Fan even witnessed many miracles.

    Some inner court disciples¡ªQi Grandmasters¡ªdisyed remarkable prowess, defeating Yuanfu realm experts at the first level consecutively. They made a big ssh and progressed through the rounds¡ªa series of urrences akin to miracles.

    These people were all dazzling stars, shining brightly.

    Some top experts cruised through thepetition the whole way, which was considered normal.

    During the battles, Mu Chen and Lu Yun were eliminated early on after surviving just two rounds, bing mere spectators of this grand event. They could only watch as the geniuses made it through the rounds with envy.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan had yet to encounter anyone who could withstand more than a single move from him. Some of them failed to even see him making his move.

    A messenger entered the stands reserved for the higher-ups with urgent news.

    ¡°Reporting! Chen Fan has progressed to fighting core disciples. He just made a core disciple at the eighth level faint with a palm strike. His strength is at the ninth level.¡±

    Following Wei Buyu''s earlier disruption, the attention of nearly every elder from the four major sects remained fixed on Chen Fan.

    Chen Muyang, Fengyunzi, and the others¡¯ expressions grew increasingly uglier as the battles progressed.

    Throughout the day and night ofpetition, Chen Fan faced numerous adversaries. Yet regardless of their strength, he defeated them with a single blow.

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation is really at the ninth level!¡±

    ¡°Looks like only Yuanfu experts at the ninth level can deal with him.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s just as well. He will fight core disciples now. It¡¯s time for him to show his true strength.¡±

    The elders of the four great sects were all paying attention to Chen Fan¡¯s battles, secretly surprised.

    ¡°Hoho, Wi Buyu, that good disciple of yours has indeed made his way into the core disciples'' battles. Let''s see how much further he can go. Don¡¯t be too reluctant to take out your Paramita Divine Flower when the timees,¡± Fengyunzi said, chuckling.

    Wei Buyu nced at Fengyunzi and said, ¡°Just keep your eyes wide open and watch, Fengyunzi. Don¡¯t be too sad when your Wind and Cloud Banner bes mine.¡±

    "Look, Chen Fan''s next opponent is Swift de Lin Qi!" someone eximed, drawing attention.

    Apart from the grand elders, even some organizational forces of the four great sects began discussing among themselves.

    ¡°Swift de Lin Qi is at the ninth level, and his de art is as fast as lightning. Often, his de strikes its target before they can even react. Chen Fan might be in for a defeat.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Lin Qi should be able to stop Chen Fan¡¯s winning streak.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, Swift de Lin Qi is a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. This time, not only is Chen Fan going to lose, he might even die. Surrender probably won¡¯t even be an option for him.¡±

    The martial artspetition went on for a day and night, spanning tens of rounds of battles. A huge number of disciples were eliminated during this process. It was inevitable that some of them suffered heavy injuries due to carelessness or even lost their lives.

    Now, the disciples still in thepetition were the core disciples of the four sects. Every one of them had high cultivation levels, possessing ultimate skills and having stumbled upon fortuitous encounters. They could skip ranks and challenge those with a higher cultivation level, being experts who could fight one against many.

    Chen Fan leaped into the arena, and Lin Qi appeared opposite him.

    Lin Qi had a very normal appearance, the kind that no one would notice in a crowd.

    However, he stood there, with de qi whistling and sweeping around him, cutting through space, emanating a powerful and incredibly oppressive pressure.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Lin Qi directly snorted coldly, not concealing the icy killing intent in his eyes at all. ¡°Chen Fan, you shall meet your end in this round! How dare you steal Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Fountain of Life. And don¡¯t you dare make any excuses! If I say that you stole it, then you did it. Today, you¡¯re destined to die under my de!¡±

 Chapter 375 - Killed Instantly

    <h4>Chapter 375 - Killed Instantly</h4>

    Lin Qi domineeringly sentenced Chen Fan to death as soon as he entered the arena.

    "Quite the bold im," Chen Fan remarked with indifference.

    ¡°I have the strength to back it up!¡± Lin Qi asserted, his gaze tinged with contempt as he eyed Chen Fan. ¡°You probably have no idea how I got my nickname, Swift de Lin Qi. You will soon find out.¡±

    Lin Qi put on an arrogant expression and continued, ¡°My de skill is rooted in speed. Either you defeat me swiftly, or I take you down with speed. There''s no other oue.¡±

    "Since my debut, none have escaped my deadly swift de," Lin Qi boasted. "You''ll soon join the list."

    ¡°But... since we are from the same sect, I can offer you a way out reluctantly. All you have to do is kneel, kowtow, and admit your wrongdoings. Oh, and also cripple your cultivation. Otherwise, don¡¯t me me for not showing mercy as a fellow disciple. You probably know this, but no one will say anything even if I kill you in this fight.

    ¡°Now, you¡¯ve until I count to three. Refuse, and I will send you to your death. Your choice will decide if you¡¯ll be alive to see the sunrise tomorrow.¡±

    Lin Qi started counting.

    ¡°One¡ª¡±

    Chen Fan interrupted him and said indifferently, ¡°You talk too much. I¡¯m getting calluses on my ears. Fine, I will kill you. I didn¡¯t want to kill you even though you are an alliance member, but your words have convinced me. ¡®Bringing about one''s own destruction'' fits you perfectly."

    ¡°What!¡± Lin Qi raised his eyebrows. His anger rose to the skies, and the sharp de qi around him swept out as he said savagely, ¡°You reckless little bastard, it seems I was being too nice to you. Since you rejected my kindness, I''ll grant your wish. It''s toote for regrets now!¡±

    <i>Shing!</i>

    Enraged and seething, Lin Qi drew his de, vanishing from sight.

    A streak of white light sliced down at Chen Fan with swiftness, splitting the air and creating a whirlwind.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    The airflow in the space became iparably sharp. It distorted and cut everything in its path. Even Chen Fan¡¯s clothing was torn apart by this invisible de qi.

    ¡°Such a fast stroke. It¡¯s formless and traceless. No wonder he''s called the Swift de!"

    "My word, when did Lin Qi strike? Did anyone catch it?"

    ¡°Chen Fan is dead for sure. He hasn''t even reacted yet; he''s stuck in the moment before the attack."

    ¡°He¡¯s done for. This de is fast as lightning, leaving nothing behind. There¡¯s no way to avoid it!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Outside the battlefield, the eliminated disciples and everyone else eximed in shock.

    Lin Qi¡¯s attack had been too fast, indescribably and iprehensibly. It was simply impossible to tell when heunched his attack.

    ¡°Eh, this Lin Qi seems interesting. He¡¯s demonstrating the word ¡®swift¡¯ to the extreme. Of all martial arts under the heavens, only speed cannot be defeated. When one reaches a certain level of speed, the power they can bring out bes very terrifying.¡±

    In the space at the highest stand, the elders were all paying attention to this match, their eyes shining with interest.

    The white de light cleaved Chen Fan at once.

    <i>C!</i>

    ¡°Indeed, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t react in time.¡±

    ¡°This battle ended too quickly.¡±

    ¡°Hmmm? Look! There¡¯s no blood!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Lin Qi had seemingly cleaved Chen Fan, but there wasn¡¯t a hint of joy on his face. It turned out he had merely split the air, cleaving an afterimage of Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice rang out from the side.

    ¡°Your speed is not bad; unfortunately, you¡¯re slow as a snail in my eyes. Where did you find the confidence to boast? Was it from Heaven¡¯s Alliance or Duan Jingtian?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Lin Qi indifferently with his arms crossed.

    ¡°Chen Fan is not dead! Heavens, Lin Qi merely cut his afterimage. Chen Fan is even faster than Lin Qi¡¯s de. It¡¯s incredible!¡± eximed the crowd in shock and disbelief.

    ¡°You damned little bastard, go to hell!¡± Lin Qi was livid. Steam rose from the top of his head, his seven orifices smoking from anger.

    Lin Qi shed at Chen Fan with his swift de again.

    <i>ng, ng, ng, ng, ng...</i>

    No figure, no de silhouette; only streaks of snow-white light intersected in the air, forming an inescapable that enveloped Chen Fan.

    The incredibly sharp de qi disrupted the air and fell on the arena. Sparks flew everywhere like fireworks had been set off.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    ¡°Heavens, how terrifying. The de turned into an inescapable? sh after sh, each faster than thest. It¡¯s like lightning! You can only watch as you get chopped to death.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan will be sliced and diced like a potato!¡±

    ¡°Swift de is a de technique with extreme speed and the power to turn mediocrity into a miracle!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd outside stared wide-eyed, their hearts beating intensely, shaken by Lin Qi¡¯s fierce storm of attacks.

    However, a leisurely voice came from behind Lin Qi. ¡°Too slow!¡±

    At some point in time, Chen Fan had slipped out of the entrapment of the de light and silently positioned himself behind Lin Qi.

    ¡°I was wondering how fast your swift de could be, but that¡¯s all it is. I overestimated you. It''s understandable. A piece of trash like you would think it is all that if the crowd keeps calling it Swift de. Trash is still trash, in the end.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Lin Qi was truly shaken. His eyeballs darted around in disbelief.

    He turned around stiffly and looked at Chen Fan, feeling like he was about to vomit blood in frustration.

    ¡°Alright, your end is here. Despite your countless strikes, you couldn¡¯t even reach the hem of my clothing. Now, it''s my turn to strike. If you withstand it, I''ll spare your insignificant life.¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly moved, simultaneously unleashing a stunning sword technique from above.

    Returning Nightless to its sheath, Chen Fan turned around and left.

    For a moment, time seemed to stand still. A line of blood appeared on Lin Qi''s face, running from his forehead to his neck.

    Chen Fan killed Swift de Lin Qi with a single stroke of his sword!

 Chapter 376 - Displaying Oneâ€™s Ability

    <h4>Chapter 376 - Disying One¡¯s Ability</h4>

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°How is this possible? Swift de Lin Qi couldn''t evennd a single blow on him!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, that''s what lightning-fast really means."

    ¡°He killed Swift de Lin Qi instantly with a single stroke...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd had witnessed how Chen Fan killed Lin Qi instantly with a single stroke; Lin Qi couldn¡¯t even react to the attack. Their hearts tightened as if someone had grabbed hold of it, their breathing ragged.

    That was Swift de Lin Qi, a ninth-level expert.

    Among the core disciples gathered nearby, Yuan Kun¡¯s aura erupted uncontrobly at Lin Qi¡¯s death.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    His seat immediately exploded into smithereens as his cold killing intent surged.

    But Yuan Kun wasn''t alone in his fury. Every member of Heaven''s Alliance present felt an overwhelming desire to tear Chen Fan apart as he calmly returned to his seat after the battle.

    Chen Fanpletely ignored their murderous gazes.

    Yuan Kun¡¯s face turned white in anger, fuming from his seven orifices. He lost control of his aura and he turned his head around. He ordered the several alliance members at the ninth level behind him, ¡°Damn it! Damn it! You guys, shred him to pieces if you encounter him!¡±

    These people were all executives of Heaven¡¯s Alliance and much stronger than Lin Qi.

    Two of them were at the peak of the ninth level. Their cultivations were robust,parable to Illusory Core realm experts with ten to twenty percent solid core.

    ¡°Rest assured. If I¡¯m matched against him, I won¡¯t even give him the chance to go to hell!¡± dered a man d in ck, his eyes zing with thunderous intensity.

    Lightning shed and thunder rumbled in the center of his palms¡ªThunderbolt Hands, Liu Wuxiang!

    The martial artspetition continued.

    At this stage, only core disciples of the four great sects were left. Every one of them was incredibly strong, possessing great skills and unmatchedbat strength.

    Unless there was a huge difference in strength, a battle would not be decided in a short amount of time, so hour-long fights weremon.

    Every participant left now was a proud genius of some sect, with exceptional talents. They had all stumbled upon some huge opportunities. Many eyes were gathered upon them.

    Every battle was being followed closely, as not many participants were left in thepetition.

    After Chen Fan cleaved Lin Qi, his following opponents were all at the eighth or the ninth level, but none could stop his advance. The battle would end as soon as he drew his sword.

    The crowd observed as Chen Fan steadily marched toward the finals, his unstoppable progress sparking fervent discussions and a myriad of emotions.

    ¡°He¡¯s too strong. Chen Fan is truly too strong!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Even ninth-level experts can¡¯t withstand a single sword from him. Victory is certain once his sword light descends from above. It¡¯s simply bizarre.¡±

    ¡°I wonder what kind of fortunate encounters Chen Fan stumbled upon. It hasn¡¯t even been two years, yet he is already at the ninth level. It¡¯s mind-boggling.¡±

    ¡°I heard someone stole Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Fountain of Life. I wonder if that rumor¡¯s true.¡±

    ¡°<i>Tch</i>, the Fountain of Life is indeed precious, but even if he stole Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Fountain of Life, it¡¯s impossible to reach this point with just that. I¡¯m sure he came across other miraculous opportunities.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    A year and a half ago, Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian had set a three-year agreement. Everyone in the entire Spring Autumn Sect had mocked Chen Fan, saying that he was courting his own death and being an attention seeker.

    However, that was no longer the prevalent view.

    Chen Fan had improved too quickly.

    In just a year and a half, a Qi Grandmaster had be a Yuanfu realm expert at the ninth level. Who could confidently say he wouldn''t reach the ninth level of the Core Formation realm in the remaining year and a half?

    A saying echoed in many minds: Life is unpredictable. Never underestimate the youth.

    Chen Fan did not notice how the crowd¡¯s gaze had changed. He only had a single thought in mind: get first ce in the martial artspetition.

    A guiding aura came from his token again.

    He stood up from his seat and leaped forth, entering the battlefield.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s Chen Fan¡¯s turn to fight again.¡±

    ¡°Hmm? His opponent for this round is Mountain River Sect¡¯s Flying Battle King, Zhang Chi!¡±

    The crowd narrowed their eyes.

    Flying Battle King Zhang Chi was more famous than Swift de Lin Qi.

    ¡°Kid, your luck ends here. Anyst words?¡± Zhang Chi, tall and lean with narrow eyes, questioned. He was at the peak of the ninth level.

    Chen Fan nced at him indifferently and said, ¡°Just one thing. You¡¯re no match for me. Spare yourself the humiliation and withdraw."

    ¡°Kid, you¡¯re too arrogant!¡± Zhang Chi exploded in anger. His eyes went wide and round, and his cultivation erupted. ¡°Flying Battle Art, Sky Destruction!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Zhang Chi unleashed an overwhelming aura akin to a deity or a titan, capable of crushing mountains with each breath. His power far surpassed that of Swift de Lin Qi.

    As he made his move, it was like a storm, copsing mountains and overturning seas, obscuring the sun and the moon.

    However, just as his aura climbed to its peak, the instant he struck out, a shocking sword light suddenly descended, splitting the sky. An attack came shing down, like a god was tearing the sky open.

    ¡°I told you to surrender, but you just wouldn¡¯t listen. I have no choice but to make a move and open your eyes,¡± said Chen Fan indifferently.

    Zhang Chi''s formidable aura faltered like a mouse facing a cat or white snow meeting sunlight¡ªshattered and dispersed without a trace beneath the streak of sword light.

    A bloody gash appeared on him as he flew back, spewingrge mouthfuls of blood as he crashed onto the ground, hisplexion drained of color, eyes vacant.

    ¡°Just why?¡± Chen Fan looked at Zhang Chi and shook his head. It was a stark example of the consequences of ignoring wise counsel.

    The crowd was dazed, unable to believe what they had seen.

    Even the renowned Flying Battle King Zhang Chi fell to a single blow!

    Sounds of swallowing saliva rang out repeatedly.

    <i>Gulp! Gulp!</i>

    ¡°This bastard...¡±

    Yuan Kun and the other Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were stunned, and their scalps went numb at the sight.

    The aggressive Heaven''s Alliance executives, who had earlier decided to teach Chen Fan a lesson, now hesitated

    They were all ninth-level Yuanfu realm experts, but their fame and strength were a littleckingpared to Zhang Chi. Even he couldn¡¯t withstand an attack from Chen Fan. If they were to go against him...

    ¡°Liu Wuxiang, are you confident if you¡¯re matched against him?¡± Yuan Kun asked.

    Liu Wuxiang clenched his fists, a light shining in his eyes. ¡°Of course!¡±

    ¡°Alright, then all of you, aside from Liu Wuxiang, surrender right away if you encounter him!¡± Yuan Kun instructed.

    The others nodded one after another.

    Their grievances with Chen Fan were deep-seated. If they faced him, they knew they''d likely meet the same fate as Lin Qi.

 Chapter 377 - Another One is Here to Die

    <h4>Chapter 377 - Another One is Here to Die</h4>

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, very good!¡± Wei Buyuughed heartily and apuded from the highest stand.

    Meanwhile, Chen Muyang, Fengyunzi, and the others¡¯ expressions were ugly, as if they had just eaten a fly.

    They had thought the core disciples would quickly defeat Chen Fan, and Buyu would have to hand over his Paramita Divine Flower. However, with the finals approaching, Chen Fan remained unstoppable.

    The elder who had imed that Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t crack the top hundred felt a flush of embarrassment, as though he''d been pped hard.

    ¡°Don¡¯t feel smug just yet, Wei Buyu. Although your disciple has entered the top hundred, each step forward will bring tougher opponents. He could even face an Illusory Core realm expert in the next match. Then, he¡¯ll lose without a doubt!¡± Fengyunzi said coldly, hoping to humble Wei Buyu''s arrogance.

    ¡°Hoho, Fengyunzi, don''t tempt fate. Wouldn¡¯t you vomit blood and die from frustration if my good little disciple defeats an Illusory Core realm expert?¡± Wei Buyu said, chuckling.

    ¡°Hmph, I can¡¯t be bothered fighting a war of words with you. As long as he doesn¡¯t enter the top three, you will have to hand over your Paramita Divine Flower. Words won''t change that," Fengyunzi retorted, his expression darkening further.

    ¡°Hehe, I doubt you''ll be iming my Paramita Divine Flower. But I''ll be making quite the profit this time. The treasures you people wagered are not bad at all. I like them a lot.¡±

    Wei Buyu ignored their ugly expressions, acting like he had already won the bet.

    ......

    If Chen Fan was ever an obscure and unknown figure, he had now risen as a shining star. His strength had simply astonished everyone.

    High up in the stands, some mighty holy disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect pondered deeply.

    Among them were formidable figures like Feng Tianxia of the Tianxia Society, the Association Leader of the Gentlemen Association, and the Association Leader of the Omniscient Association. Every circle¡¯s leader was present.

    Although they didn¡¯t shine as brightly as Duan Jingtian, they were all majestic figures. Their cultivation was iparably powerful, and their strengths could shake the heavens. The fact that they could establish their organization to fight the Heaven¡¯s Alliance attested to their strength.

    Chen Fan sat in his seat, while the nearby elite disciples all looked at him, their gazes filled with awe and admiration.

    His meteoric rise in just a year and a half surpassed even the famed Duan Jingtian. His brilliance seemed unparalleled.

    Some people even thought that if Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian could resolve their differences, perhaps Chen Fan could be the next Duan Jingtian, overshadowing an era.

    The people in the top hundred of thepetition all had cultivation above the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm. All of them were seedlings with good prospects of advancing to the Core Formation realm, but Chen Fan was still rxed.

    He gazed at these people, briefly stopping on the Illusory Core realm experts like Yuan Kun, Li Wangsheng, Yan Hong, and Shangguan Yuhai. They were his true rival for the first ce.

    Chen Fan¡¯s sharp perception picked up on their cultivation fluctuations, and he made some rough estimations in his heart.

    <i>Yuan Kun, Li Wangsheng, Yan Hong, and Shangguan Yuhai are all experts with a sixty to seventy percent solid illusory core. They¡¯re as strong as Xue Tianhe before his breakthrough...</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell on a woman.

    <i>Hmm? That is... Xu Jing.</i>

    This woman was worryingly thin as if a gust could blow her away, but there was something unsettling about Xu Jing that struck Chen Fan.

    He sensed a great power within Xu Jing; it made his bloodline throb slightly.

    As Xu Jing caught Chen Fan''s gaze, she quickly averted her eyes, prompting Chen Fan to narrow his gaze in realization.

    <i>There¡¯s something odd inside Xu Jing. She''s resonating with my Rain Dragon bloodline. Right, Master said she possesses a dragon¡¯s bloodline. That¡¯s probably it...</i>

    The world was full of anomalies.

    Since he could stumble upon Rain Dragons¡¯ bloodline in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, there was nothing strange about Xu Jing also having a dragon¡¯s bloodline.

    Chen Fan saw Xu Jing standing up. It was her turn to fight.

    Xu Jing was also in the Illusory Core realm, with around a fifty percent solid core. Although she was not as strong as Yuan Kun and the other three, she was still very powerful.

    Her opponent in this round was an Illusory Core realm expert from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect. The two immediately came to blows as soon as they entered the battlefield.

    The result surprised Chen Fan somewhat.

    The participant from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect was as strong as Xu Jing and was a sword cultivator to boot. Given their high offensive power, he should have held the advantage, yet the result seemed to indicate otherwise.

    Unexpectedly, a tremendous force surged from Xu Jing''s slender form as she unleashed ten consecutive punches. She destroyed her opponent¡¯s incredible sword techniques and beat him to the point of spewing blood.

    <i>Whoa, whoa.</i>

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s disciples murmured among themselves.

    ¡°Senior Sister Xu Jing¡¯s so strong. My gosh, how does she have such tremendous power, to defeat a sword cultivator in the same realm in ten punches.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s surprising about that? I heard Senior Sister Xu Jing stumbled upon a fortuitous encounter. She entered a secret realm and identally fell into a pool of dragon blood. Not only did she survive, she absorbed the dragon blood and thus gained a dragon¡¯s bloodline.¡±

    ¡°I see. It¡¯s no wonder her fist art is so domineeringly fierce. Her punches have unstoppable momentum, with the power to split mountains.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Just as Xu Jing¡¯s battle ended, Chen Fan¡¯s token vibrated. He immediately stood up and walked toward the battlefield.

    He sensed thousands of gazes focusing on him.

    In the inner area of the central battlefield, the number of remainingpetitors dwindled, and each match became a captivating spectacle. Unlike the chaotic start, the atmosphere now brimmed with intensity.

    Moreover, each victory at this point promised massive rewards.

    Chen Fan, having fought tirelessly to this point, had no idea how many contribution points he had amassed. While he couldn''t pinpoint the exact figure, it undoubtedly surpassed the umtion of most experts, achieved within a mere few days rather than years or even decades.

    Winning one round was a hundred contribution points, two wins was two hundred points, three wins was four hundred points, four wins was eight hundred points...

    With such a snowballing umtion, Chen Fan now had too many contribution points to count. He had already forgotten how many rounds he had won up until now.

    As Chen Fan stood poised, he found himself face to face with none other than Thunderbolt Hands Liu Wuxiang from Heaven''s Alliance.

    Liu Wuxiang¡¯s eyes emitted icy killing intent as he looked at Chen Fan. His cultivation fluctuated, lightning shed and thunder rumbled. His cultivation technique was a lightning-attributed one.

    Chen Fan also knew that his opponent was a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Thus, he was not surprised. With an indifferent expression on his face, he thought. <i>Another one is about to bite the dust. </i>

 Chapter 378 - Thunderbolt Hands Liu Wuxiang

    <h4>Chapter 378 - Thunderbolt Hands Liu Wuxiang</h4>

    ¡°Hoho, it seems I really hit the nail on the head, Wei Buyu. Your good disciple¡¯s luck hase to an end. He¡¯s sure to lose in this round against Liu Wuxiang,¡± Fengyunzi said, a smile finally breaking through his previously gloomy expression.

    The reason? Liu Wuxiang was an Illusory Core realm expert.

    Liu Wuxiang had recently condensed his core, and it was only ten percent solid. He used a secret technique to make it seem like he was at the peak of the ninth level. However, he couldn¡¯t hide his true cultivation from these powerful grand elders.

    ¡°So what if it¡¯s Liu Wuxiang? He will lose all the same!¡± Wei Buyu said inly, showing no signs of concern.

    ¡°Haha, what shameless boasting. Surely you can see through Liu Wuxiang''s true strength.¡± Fengyunziughed.

    ¡°Cut the crap. The results will speak for themselves. I can¡¯t be bothered wasting my breath trying to upset you, lest you lose face in front of everyone,¡± Wei Buyu said nonchntly.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Fengyunzi snorted coldly and said unhappily, ¡°Alright, let''s see what you have to say when Chen Fan falls to Liu Wuxiang."

    ......

    <i>Another one is about to bite the dust. </i>

    Chen Fan ignored Liu Wuxiang¡¯s cold killing intent and looked at him like he was looking at a corpse.

    Liu Wuxiang looked at Chen Fan coldly. His voice was filled with killing intent, and he talked like he was a grim reaper passing judgment. ¡°Little bastard, you will die here since you ran into me in this round.

    ¡°I have to admit, you truly surprised everyone today. You grew to this extent in only a year and a half. It seems you¡¯ve made good use of Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Fountain of Life.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to make excuses; I won¡¯t listen to them. Stealing Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s Fountain of Life is a capital offense, one deserving of a thousand deaths. Moreover, you killed Lin Qi earlier. Not even tearing you apart will pay for your sins.¡±

    "Think you can handle me alone?" Chen Fan''s lips curled into a mocking smirk.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯m more than enough!¡± Liu Wuxiang nodded, looking arrogant.

    <i>Tch.</i> Chen Fan sneered and said, ¡°Alright, I won''t waste my breath on you. You¡¯re nothing more than a corpse. Show your true cultivation now. You thought you could conceal your Illusory Core realm cultivation from me? You¡¯re the na?ve one, you know that?¡±

    ¡°You saw through it?!¡± Liu Wuxiang¡¯s expression changed, and his pupils contracted.

    The secret technique he had mastered to cloak his aura was supposed to be foolproof. Even Yuan Kun hadn''t detected any ws in it.

    Yet, Chen Fan had exposed it straight away. It was like his tail was being stepped on.

    ¡°<i>Tch</i>, this negligible skill of yours can be used to hide things from others, but it¡¯s simplyughable to try to hide anything from me,¡± Chen Fan mocked.

    ¡°Fine, since you saw through it, I do not need to conceal it any further.¡±

    Liu Wuxiang decided to stop hiding his cultivation and immediately disyed his true cultivation level.

    ¡°Although you saw through my true cultivation level, it only means that your doom is approaching. You probably don¡¯t know how terrifying the Illusory Core realm is. You''re like an ant before me; I could crush you with a flick of my finger," Liu Wuxiang dered haughtily, treating Chen Fan with disdain.

    ¡°Heavens, Senior Brother Liu Wuxiang is an Illusory Core realm expert. How unexpected!¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Liu Wuxiang fooled every one of us...¡±

    ¡°Hehe, that¡¯s even better. This little bastard will die for sure against Senior Brother Liu Wuxiang!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    All the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance looked surprised, but cold smiles soon appeared on their faces.

    Yuan Kun was also somewhat surprised. He could tell that Liu Wuxiang was a little stronger than the others, but he had no idea that Liu Wuxiang had already advanced into the Illusory Core realm.

    ¡°Then what are you still waiting for? Make your move. I¡¯ll see how you will crush me to death.¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, looking at Liu Wuxiang.

    ¡°Since that is the case...¡± Liu Wuxiang¡¯s voice was icy. The cold killing intent in his eyes turned into actual substance. He abruptly disappeared on the spot, and his icy voice resounded in space as he said, ¡°Then go to hell!¡±

    All of a sudden, the sound of thunder rang in front of Chen Fan.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Immediately after, several thunderous palm seals sted over.

    Every palm seal was filled with lightning shes and rolling thunder. It was as fast as a peal of thunder, sealing the area. The space trembled, the air current was like the tide, surging and churning non-stop.

    ¡°Thunderbolt Palm!¡± said Liu Wuxiang as he appeared ahead.

    His hands were a blur. Lightning shed and thunder roared in his palms. Every palm strike carried terrifying might, shaking the heavens as they sted out.

    The space rang out with endless explosions under his palm strikes. The air blew up by the inch.

    <i>Boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The Thunderbolt Palm was Liu Wuxiang¡¯s famed skill.

    Liu Wuxiang¡¯s nickname, Thunderbolt Hands, referred to this.

    He moved with the swiftness of a thunderbolt, his palm carrying a force akin to lightning, majestic and vast in its reach.

    Liu Wuxiang attacked with full force, not holding back in the slightest.

    He wanted to eliminate Chen Fan in a single strike, leaving no chance for escape. He was determined to erase any possibility of survival.

    Outside the battlefield, the crowd started murmuring among themselves.

    ¡°There it is. Liu Wuxiang¡¯s ultimate skill, right from the start!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Thunderbolt Palm is an upper-profound tier martial skill. It is among the top of all skills in the same tier. Infused with the power of lightning, its potency rivals even lower-earth tier techniques."

    ¡°How terrifying. The force of his palm seems to engulf everything, reminiscent of the wrath of thunder descending upon the world!"

    ¡°Chen Fan will face his doom here. His legend is about to end.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°How is it, little bastard? You must be scared silly, right? It¡¯s useless! Even if you kneel and beg for mercy now, only death awaits you. Prepare to face your reckoning in the depths of hell. And when you reincarnate, remember to tread carefully, lest you provoke the wrong enemy,¡± Liu Wuxiang said savagely, as though he could already envision Chen Fan''s death.

    The towering qi waves were like the surging tides. An overwhelming force rushed over.

    Chen Fan stood still like a mountain, allowing his clothes to flutter in the winds.

    Suddenly, he raised his arm, clenching his hand into a fist, and he struck out once.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The space trembled violently as an overwhelming force erupted from Chen Fan''s fist like a cannonball, obliterating everything in its path.

    The chaotic atmosphere, once filled with palm seals, now fell into an eerie calm.

    <i>Tap!</i> Chen Fan stepped forth, his gaze indifferent, and said, ¡°You were right. Prepare to face your reckoning in the depths of hell. And when you reincarnate, remember to tread carefully, lest you provoke the wrong enemy. I, Chen Fan, am someone you can¡¯t mess with!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    He loosened his fist into a palm and struck out. A colossal wave of power surged forth, crashing down upon Liu Wuxiang.

    Caught off guard, Liu Wuxiang couldn''t even react before Chen Fan''s strike eradicated any trace of life from him.

    The whole world went quiet in an instant!

 Chapter 379 - Matched Against Xu Jing

    <h4>Chapter 379 - Matched Against Xu Jing</h4>

    Chen Fan had killed Liu Wuxiang with a punch and a palm strike, shocking the crowd. The entire space fell into a hushed silence, as everyone was in disbelief.

    The oue was just that unexpected.

    ¡°Wuxiang!¡±

    Suddenly, a furious roar rang out, breaking the silence. Considering how wide his eyes were now, it seemed like Yuan Kun¡¯s eye sockets were about to crack. His aura churned, sending shivers down the spines of the spectators.

    Within the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, Duan Jingtian stood as their unwavering leader, while Yuan Kun served as his steadfast lieutenant, overseeing all matters.

    If Duan Jingtian represented the soul of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, then Yuan Kun was its indispensablemander-in-chief.

    Liu Wuxiang was one of the few top executives of Heaven¡¯s Alliance and was the closest to Yuan Kun. They were like brothers.

    Yuan Kun wanted to rush up to the arena and kill Chen Fan then and there.

    During this martial artspetition, Chen Fan had first killed Swift de Lin Qi and Liu Wuxiang. He had severed its left and right arms. It was like he had no respect for the alliance.

    Yet, he knew that despite his seething hatred, he couldn''t act impulsively during thepetition.

    During thepetition, life and death hung on the whims of fate. If a disciple died, it was simply the course of events.

    ¡°Bastard! You damned beast! You¡¯re courting death, you¡¯re courting death! You¡¯d best pray you don¡¯t run into me. Don¡¯t get eliminated so soon! I want you dead! You must die!¡± Yuan Kun''s rage rendered his words nearly unintelligible.

    Chen Fan halted, turned to face him, and simply said, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Yuan Kun¡¯s eyes went red in anger at Chen Fan¡¯s dismissal. His killing intent reached the skies, stirring the winds and the clouds.

    ¡°What terrifying killing intent!¡±

    ¡°Heavens! Wouldn¡¯t he just tear Chen Fan to shreds if they met in the arena?¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Chen Fan killed two executives of the alliance one after another: Lin Qi and Liu Wuxiang. One of them was even an Illusory Core realm expert! He¡¯d simply deeply wounded the alliance and pped them hard on the face.¡±

    ¡°Luckily for him, Senior Brother Duan Jingtian isn¡¯t here. Otherwise, he would have defied the rules and killed Chen Fan right here.¡±

    ¡°For real...¡±

    Meanwhile, on the highest stands:

    ¡°Hoho, how is it, Fengyunzi? Does your face hurt?¡± Wei Buyu mocked, looking at Fengyunzi with a faint smile.

    The smile on Fengyunzi¡¯s face had disappeared, reced by gloominess as if a terrifying storm was about to descend.

    Fengyunzi did not say a word.

    Chen Muyang said from the side, ¡°Hmph, Wei Buyu, Chen Fan killed two of our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s genus disciples. Are you feeling very proud of it?

    Wei Buyu¡¯s expression darkened, and he said coldly, ¡°Then, should he have just let those pieces of trash kill him?¡±

    ¡°You...¡± Chen Muyang felt speechless. In the end, he spat out, ¡°Excuses!¡±

    ¡°Hmph! I can¡¯t be bothered with you. You¡¯re not from the Sect Leader¡¯s faction. Why are you picking on Chen Fan? I don¡¯t understand. Did you perhaps be one of Duan Jingtian¡¯s followers?¡±

    Among the grand elders from the Spring Autumn Sect present here, many were in the Sect Leader¡¯s faction.

    Elder Liehuo was one of them, but he had remained silent thus far. On the contrary, Chen Muyang had jumped out at every turn, so it all seemed suspicious.

    Someone from the neutral faction would have remained silent in this kind of situation, but Chen Muyang kept picking on him and Chen Fan left and right.

    ¡°Hmph, I just can''t overlook the ruthless manner in which Chen Fan fights. After all, Lin Qi and Liu Wuxiang were both genius disciples of our sect. Their deaths are a huge loss for us,¡± Chen Muyang said coldly.

    ¡°Genius? Once they''re dead, they''re irrelevant.¡± Wei Buyu curled his lips and continued, ¡°Moreover, Chen Fan killed them easily, proving himself to be a greater genius. Those two couldn''t hold a candle to him, individually orbined. What more is there to discuss?"

    ......

    Chen Fan returned to his seat. Countless gazes¡ªeachden with various implications¡ªfell onto him from all directions.

    He did not pay them any attention and waited quietly. With each round, the pool of contenders dwindled.

    From a hundred to fifty.

    Then, down to twenty-five.

    After several more rounds, only a handful remained.

    The remaining twenty or so disciples were all the strongest core disciples of the four great sects. Each was either at the ninth level or the Illusory Core realm.

    More than ny-nine percent of the disciples were eliminated and had gathered outside the battlefield, specting on the emergence of a dark horse and predicting the eventual victor.

    ¡°The finals are almost upon us. I wonder who will take top ce and obtain the Extreme Profound Elixir!¡±

    ¡°Who else? It''s bound to be one of them: Yuan Kun, Li Wangsheng, Yan Hong, or Shangguan Yuhai. They are the strongest among the participants. They¡¯re just shy of reaching the Core Formation realm and can even exchange blows with genuine Core Formation realm experts.¡±

    "Absolutely, those four are the cream of the crop in this contest. Xu Jing, Chen Fan, and the rest fall into the second tier."

    ¡°Hehe, say, do you think Chen Fan might surprise us all and emerge as the dark horse, seizing the top spot?"

    ¡°How is that possible? Liu Wuxiang only had a ten percent solid core. He¡¯s much, much weaker whenpared to Yuan Kun and the others.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, let alone going against those four, Xu Jing alone will be a tough enough match for Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I¡¯m just saying. Don¡¯t take it seriously. I think those four will be the ones truly fighting for the top spot.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    After all, iming the top spot meant getting a step closer to the coveted Core Formation realm¡ªa realm every inner sect disciple aspired to reach.

    Chen Fan¡¯s token vibrated. He subconsciously stood up and stepped into the battlefield.

    As soon as he moved, countless gazes followed him.

    "I wonder who Chen Fan will face off against in this round?"

    ¡°Whoever it is, I don¡¯t think he can easily win against his opponent anymore.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. At this stage, only the cr¨¨me de cr¨¨me remain. After all, they are stronger than all of us... Hahaha.¡±

    A feminine silhouette appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s arena.

    <i>Xu Jing!</i>

    All of a sudden, the entire battlefield was bustling with noise and excitement.

    ¡°Heavens, look! Chen Fan¡¯s opponent for this round is Xu Jing!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s victory streak will break here, right? Xu Jing defeated a fellow Illusory Core realm expert in only ten moves. Herbat strength is unparalleled. Chen Fan can¡¯t be a match for Xu Jing.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I doubt Chen Fan can even withstand three of Senior Sister Xu Jing''s strikes."

 Chapter 380 - Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique

    <h4>Chapter 380 - Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique</h4>

    Xu Jing stood opposite Chen Fan and stated her name, ¡°Xu Jing.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and simrly gave his name. ¡°Chen Fan.¡±

    He could tell that Xu Jing was even stronger than Zi Ling from the Wuning Empire, and nearly on par with Xin Wuming. However, he was not afraid at all.

    Xu Jing was not a member of Heaven¡¯s Alliance, she did she reveal any killing intent toward him, and he didn¡¯t have a grudge against her. Thus, his attitude was rather warm toward her. He had stated his name as a form of respect.

    Xu Jing was not in a hurry to start fighting. With a calm tone, she said, ¡°Getting all the way here isn¡¯t easy. You¡¯re an expert, and you emerged out of nowhere.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°I aim to reach even greater heights.¡±

    ¡°That is impossible. Your journey ends here.¡± Xu Jing shook her head.

    ¡°We will only know after we try,¡± Chen Fan said ambiguously.

    ¡°You¡¯re very strong. That is for sure. Liu Wuxiang¡¯s death is proof enough for me. However, Liu Wuxiang only recently became an Illusory Core realm expert, whereas I reached this level two years ago.¡±

    Xu Jing continued shaking her head and continued, ¡°You probably already know this, but even a five percent difference in the Illusory Core realm is quite significant. You may have killed Lu Wuxiang, but you can¡¯t withstand more than three moves from me.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Three moves? Senior Sister Xu Jing, you sure are confident.¡±

    Xu Jing nodded and said, ¡°That is my confidence in my strength. I will let you in on a little secret. I once fell into a pool of dragon blood. I survived that and benefited from the disaster. It helped me cultivate a true dragon¡¯s bloodline. You saw what happened earlier. That sword cultivator from Floating Cloud Sword Sect lost to me in ten moves. How do youpare to him?¡±

    ¡°Not even close... to me, that is,¡± Chen Fan said seriously.

    Xu Jing remainedposed as she retorted, ¡°You¡¯re pretty self-confident.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled candidly and said, ¡°Just like you said, Senior Sister, I¡¯m also confident in my strength!¡±

    An indescribable aura rose from Chen Fan suddenly, making Xu Jing narrow her eyes.

    Xu Jing soon said, ¡°Perhaps I underestimated you earlier. Still, you are no match for me. Words may not sway the oue; the truth will reveal itself in our fight. I only hope your strength matches your ims; otherwise, it would be quite disappointing."

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned serious, and he replied, ¡°I won¡¯t disappoint you, Senior Sister. I only hope that you won¡¯t feel down when you lose.¡±

    Xu Jing shook her head and said, ¡°In that case, let¡¯s begin.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded, ¡°Alright!¡±

    All of a sudden, Xu Jing¡¯s aura erupted.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    It surged like a volcano, unleashing a terrifying hurricane of power, causing the entire arena to tremble.

    ¡°Be careful, I¡¯m about to make my move,¡± Xu Jing warned.

    ¡°Juste at me, Senior Sister,¡± Chen Fan replied, still wearing a smile on his face.

    Xu Jing wasted no time and unleashed her cultivation. Her fists were like giant demons splitting mountains. ¡°Demon Subduing Divine Fist, Shaking Heaven and Earth!¡±

    Two meteor-like projectiles hurtled toward Chen Fan. The wind howled, a mournful sound piercing the air as if des were scraping across his face.

    Immediately, Chen Fan sensed a powerful oppressive force rushing over, trying to take him out with a momentum capable of toppling mountains or overturning seas.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan let out a vigorous shout that shook one''s eardrums as he punched out.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their formidable powers shed, like Mars colliding with Earth, instantly tearing through the fabric of space. A fierce gale swept out, qi currents resembling surging waves.

    ¡°Alright, not bad! Take this, Demon Subduing the Sea!¡±

    Xu Jing stepped forward with her right foot. The air within several meters immediately froze as she quickly appeared in front of Chen Fan, and a fist came flying with terrifying strength.

    Chen Fan sensed the explosive strength contained in this punch,parable to his strength before he reached the Divine Strength realm. It showcased Xu Jing''s exceptional physique, typical of a heavenly genius who had inherited a true dragon''s bloodline.

    Unfazed, he countered with a punch. ¡°Undefeated Against Heaven!¡±

    The punch blossomed with the concept of ¡°undefeated.¡± His force twisted into a rope and shot out at once, confronting Xu Jing¡¯s head-on.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The two punches collided. A powerful shockwave spread out, almost destroying heaven and earth.

    ¡°Senior Sister, that¡¯s two moves already.¡± Chen Fan¡¯sughter spread.

    Xu Jing remained unmoved. Despite her two unsessful strikes, sheunched another attack.

    ¡°Ravaging Mountain Overthrowing Sea!¡±

    The tremendous force carried the sound ofndslides and tsunamis, shaking the space. It tore through the air like a flood dragon emerging from the sea, its momentum unstoppable.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless, Senior Sister. Although you came across some fortuitous encounters, what I''ve gained is no less significant. Your physique is strong, the strongest I''ve encountered, butpared to mine, it falls short. Break!¡± Chen Fan attacked, executing another move from Undefeated King¡¯s Fist.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A terrifying force surged forth; Xu Jing¡¯s expression changed slightly. Pushed back repeatedly from the impact, she looked at Chen Fan in surprise, seemingly in disbelief.

    The crowd outside was astonished. Their mouths opened wide, their jaws nearly dropping to the ground.

    ¡°Is this for real? Could it be that even Senior Sister Xu Jing is no match for Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°How is this possible? I must be seeing things!¡±

    ¡°Are you guys sure Senior Sister Xu Jing was the one being pushed back and not Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Xu Jing looked at Chen Fan with narrowed eyes. ¡°No wonder my bloodline feels restless. You possess a true dragon¡¯s bloodline as well, don¡¯t you? Otherwise, that physique of yours makes no sense.¡±

    Chen Fan only smiled in response.

    ¡°Fine. It seems I¡¯ve been underestimating you all along. It¡¯s no wonder you killed Liu Wuxiang so easily. You¡¯re truly very strong. However, I maintain that victory will ultimately be mine! Now, I¡¯m going to use my Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it very much.¡± Chen Fan was still smiling, looking rxed.

    Xu Jing didn¡¯t speak any further. Her gaze narrowed as her primeval force surged, seeming to ignite with fervor. An ethereal golden halo manifested behind her head, exuding a sacred aura.

    Xu Jing had obtained the Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique within an ancient secret realm. It was a middle-earth tier martial art, overwhelming and unrivaled, with a total of nineyers.

    Currently, she was using the powers of the seventhyer¡ªShocking Absolute Heaven. The eighthyer was known as the Primordial Chaos Heaven, and the ninthyer was called the Zenith Heaven.

    When the three heavens converged, they could subdue all and be unstoppable.

 Chapter 381 - Defeating Xu Jing

    <h4>Chapter 381 - Defeating Xu Jing</h4>

    Xu Jing tapped into the power of the seventhyer of the Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique, emanating a ferocious aura. It seemed like she could kill anyone who stood in her way.

    Thosecking mental fortitude would find their legs turning to jelly,pelled to kneel and beg for mercy under her oppressive aura.

    Chen Fan could feel the aura trying to shake his mind and make him submit to her.

    However, Chen Fan remained unmoved like a reef.

    Xu Jing, her eyes glinting, twisted on her feet, and primeval force burst out from them, propelling her. Then, she punched left and right with tremendous strength that could shatter the stars.

    ¡°Good timing!¡±

    Seeing this, a light burst out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He withdrew instead of advancing and counterattacked instead of dodging.

    Chen Fan began revolving the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. Terrifying strength coursed through him, gushing and gathering within his flesh and blood. The strength finally left through his fists.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    Their fists collided; it was like two mountains had crashed into each other. It set off a fierce whirlwind and ripples spread out.

    The entire arena fell into chaos.

    Xu Jing gasped in surprise in her heart again.

    She had used the power of the seventhyer of the Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique¡ªshe could destroy a mountain with each punch. Even Illusory Core realm experts with a simr conversion rate as her would spew blood from her punch and surrender right away.

    When their punches had met, she felt the power rushing in from the other side. It made her mind tremble, and she struggled to keep herself together.

    "Ah, I see now why you were so confident. You¡¯re quite strong. Well then, I won''t hold back anymore. Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique, eighthyer, open!¡±

    Xu Jing realized that she couldn¡¯t defeat him while relying on the power of the seventhyer alone. She immediately brought out the powers of the eighthyer, and a second halo appeared at the back of her head.

    With the two halos, onerge and one small, ovepping each other, her strength surged, intensifying her aura.

    She unleashed a punch, and the surrounding windstorm immediately stopped, leaving the air undisturbed.

    ¡°Demons Fall!¡±

    The Demon Subduing Divine Fist was a top upper-profound tier martial skill. The power of its final move was especially noteworthy,parable to a lower-earth tier martial skill. The move finally made Chen Fan feel pressured.

    Boundless golden light rushed toward Chen Fan like a waterfall, carrying tremendous might that could pierce through space.

    ¡°Undefeated King!¡±

    Chen Fan used the final move of Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. A terrifying force surged like a mountain flood, gushing out with vibrations that were like thunderps, colliding with Xu Jing¡¯s fist.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A deafening noise resounded. The resultant engulfed them and erupted.

    However, Chen Fan emerged from the storm as he retreated. The difference in power between their techniques had been so great that he had to retreat.

    <i>Impressive</i>. Chen Fan thought.

    Xu Jing was undoubtedly as strong as Xin Wuming.

    He had no feuds with Xu Jing. If he had used his iron spear and executed Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes, he could have easily destroyed Xu Jing¡¯s move.

    The storm calmed down, and Xu Jing appeared. Looking at Chen Fan, she said, ¡°How is it? I can already suppress you by using the power of the eighthyer of the Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation technique. Your defeat is certain once I bring forth the ninthyer. So, it¡¯s better if you surrender. My target is Yuan Kun and the others and getting first ce in thispetition!¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Senior Sister, you are indeed very strong, but you can¡¯t defeat me. Bring out your full strength; show me exactly how strong the ninthyer is.¡±

    Xu Jing shook her head and said, ¡°The eighthyer is enough to suppress you. Why do I need to use the ninthyer? You¡¯re still not qualified for me to use it.¡±

    A sharp light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. ¡°In that case, Senior Sister, please excuse me.¡±

    With those words, he summoned his iron spear with a swift motion of his hand. His aura skyrocketed, and he stepped forward. He shot forth like an eagle hunting a rabbit, fierce winds whistling.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    Chen Fan moved his arm. The iron spear instantly turned into numerous silhouettes, covering the sky. It was as if tens of meteors were falling into the world to destroy it, bringing about the apocalypse.

    Xu Jing raised her eyebrows, immediately sensing intense danger. Her cultivation surged and erupted as she executed her strongest move again.

    ¡°Demons Fall!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A deafening explosion rang out. The space rippled, and all sorts of terrifying storms raged on.

    <i>Thud, thud, thud!</i>

    The attack knocked back Xu Jing.

    Chen Fan waved his arm, his power erupting, and suppressed the space. The calm returned as he stood with his spear, looking at Xu Jing. ¡°How is it, Senior Sister? You can now bring out your full strength, right?¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Xu Jing¡¯s expression became iparably grave. Without any hesitation, she channeled her cultivation, bringing about anotheryer to the halo at the back of her head.

    The ovepping halos, fromrge to small, elevated Xu Jing''s aura to its zenith, resembling a martial goddess in battle.

    ¡°To think a mere martial artist at the ninth level would force me to use the powers of the ninthyer... I was saving it to deal with those four, but here it is.¡± Xu Jing looked at Chen Fan calmly.

    ¡°It¡¯s my honor.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    Although Xu Jing¡¯s aura was very powerful now, he still didn¡¯t feel all that threatened.

    ¡°Are you prepared to ept defeat?¡± Xu Jing narrowed her eyes, her gaze iparably sharp.

    ¡°Come!¡± Chen Fan said decisively, his aura flourished.

    ¡°Demons Fall!¡±

    Xu Jing unleashed a fierce onught, emitting a piercing whistle as a terrifying force descended, capable of shattering mountains, stars, or even rending space itself.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Whistles rang out as the air currents ravaged wildly. Explosions boomed repeatedly.

    This punch was truly Xu Jing¡¯s strongest move. Nothing coulde close.

    ¡°This is the end, Senior Sister.¡±

    A brilliant light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he moved simultaneously.

    Raising his arm, he thrust violently with the iron spear, the sound of space being pierced sending shivers down observers'' spines.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    Explosions rang out endlessly, and the entire space shook violently. The people in the outside world trembled in fear.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s spear tip pierced through the storm, pointing straight at Xu Jing¡¯s throat.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A screen with numerousyers suddenly appeared around Xu Jing, shielding her.

    It tried to stop the spear. However, Chen Fan¡¯s attack wasn¡¯t that easy to stop.

    Eachyer of the screen shattered until, with a resounding crack, the final barrier gave way. Xu Jing''s defense broke.

    With practiced ease, Chen Fan withdrew his iron spear, standing calmly on the opposite side as he pronounced, "You''ve lost, Senior Sister."

 Chapter 382 - Advancing into the Finals

    <h4>Chapter 382 - Advancing into the Finals</h4>

    ¡°Senior Sister, I have shattered your token. You have lost.¡±

    That cracking sound hade from Xu Jing¡¯s token shattering.

    Xu Jing stood on the spot, stunned, as she hadn¡¯t expected to lose to Chen Fan.

    She soon looked up at Chen Fan and nodded. ¡°I lost. I didn¡¯t expect you to be so strong. Your strength took me by surprise. Even using the ninthyer of the Three Heavens Golden Ksetra Cultivation Technique, I couldn''t match you. I ept my loss gracefully.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re very impressive too, Senior Sister. I had the upper hand with my weapon,¡± Chen Fan replied courteously.

    Xu Jing shook her head and said, ¡°A loss is a loss. I won¡¯t find any excuses. Even though your cultivation is lower, I couldn¡¯t gain an edge. I¡¯m convinced of my loss. I hope you achieve the ranking you aspire to.¡±

    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m aiming for first ce!¡± Chen Fan said confidently.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it,¡± said Xu Jing, leaving with those hopeful words.

    Meanwhile, the central battlefield hummed with excitement as conversations filled the air with spection.

    ¡°Oh my god, I¡¯m not dreaming, am I? Senior Sister Xu Jing lost!¡±

    ¡°Punch me, quick! I want to see if I¡¯m dreaming.¡±

    ¡°Alright...¡±

    ¡°<i>Hiss</i>, you! You really hit me! Freaking hurts... but that proves it. This is all real!¡±

    ¡°Senior Sister Xu Jing¡¯s illusory core is fifty percent solid, yet she lost! Is Chen Fan as strong as Yuan Kun and the others?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m starting to hope Chen Fan clinches first ce in thispetition.¡±

    ¡°If Chen Fan takes the top spot while being at the ninth level, wouldn¡¯t he make history? No one has done that since the inception of the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard Senior Brother Duan Jingtian dominated thepetition and took the first ce, but he had Illusory Core realm cultivation.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Damn it! How is he that strong?! That makes no sense!¡± Yuan Kun¡¯s eyes flickered, his expression ugly. Chen Fan¡¯s strength had exceeded everyone¡¯s expectations.

    If Xu Jing were to use her full strength, Yuan Kun knew that she could even threaten him. She was just that strong.

    So, he simply couldn¡¯t believe that she lost to Chen Fan. He wondered if she had deliberately lost the match.

    ¡°Senior Brother Yuan Kun, it might be advantageous that this little bastard won. You could face him in thepetition. With your formidable strength, he wouldn¡¯t stand a chance¡± remarked an alliance executive at the ninth level.

    Yuan Kun¡¯s gaze darkened, and he said coldly, ¡°True enough. I now have a chance to ughter him with my own hands that way.¡±

    ......

    ¡°Hahahaha, Fengyunzi, Chen Muyang, what do you say? As I said, Chen Fan can reach the top three. I¡¯ll dly ept your wagers now.¡± Wei Buyuughed loudly, feeling iparably joyful.

    When Chen Fan was matched with Xu Jing, Wei Buyu had sweated bullets, worried that she would defeat him. After all, his disciple was only at the ninth level.

    ¡°Hmph, Wei Buyu, aren¡¯t you counting your chickens before they have hatched? He still hasn¡¯t entered the top three!¡± Fengyunzi snorted coldly, his tone incredibly rude and his expression incredibly ugly.

    They had all been confident that Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t enter the top three; therefore, they had wagered their greatest treasures. Now, a hint of anxiety and doubt crept in.

    ¡°Wei Buyu, Xu Jing isn¡¯t as strong as Yuan Kun, Li Wangsheng, and the others. No matter how you look at it, Chen Fan won¡¯t enter the top three,¡± said a grand elder from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Chen Fan''s chances are slim,¡± concurred another elder.

    Wei Buyu curled his lips and said, ¡°I see that you''re just being stubborn. Let''s wait and see. You''ll change your tune when Chen Fan enters the top three.¡±

    ¡°Let''s see him make it to the top three first.¡±

    ......

    Chen Fan''s victory over Xu Jing sent shockwaves through the spectators.

    Regarded as thepetition''s dark horse, Chen Fan now had a shot at iming the top spot. His performance had silenced all doubters.

    Before long, the next round began.

    The remaining ten contestants were the top experts from the four great sects. They were all in the Illusory Core realm¡ªexcept for Chen Fan.

    To the spectators, this was nothing short of a miracle. No one had anticipated Chen Fan making it into the top hundred, let alone the top ten.

    However, as Chen Fan fought in numerous rounds, his terrifying strength became evident.

    He even defeated Xu Jing; she had the potential to enter the top five. Who could underestimate him now?

    Chen Fan¡¯s next opponent was an Illusory Core realm expert from the Mountain River Sect.

    This person¡¯s cultivation was inferior to Xu Jing¡¯s. However, he hoped to get lucky, thinking that Chen Fan had exhausted most of his energy in the previous battle, which offered him a chance for victory.

    However, Chen Fan shattered such hopes with his iron spear.

    As soon as he executed Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes, it seemed as if dozens, if not hundreds, of meteors had sealed off heaven and earth, threatening to destroy the world. It immediately overwhelmed his opponent, leaving him shocked.

    Chen Fan¡¯s opponent used all his strength and even ignited a bit of his illusory core; ultimately, he was defeated.

    ¡°So strong. Chen Fan is too strong. Heavens, is he really at the ninth level?¡±

    ¡°He''s a strong contender for the top five. With a bit of luck, he might even break into the top three.¡±

    ¡°He will make history in this Four Sects Martial Art Competition!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The anticipation among the crowd was palpable.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A figure appeared across from Chen Fan.

    <i>Whoa!</i>

    The entire battlefield erupted in excitement as spectators rose to their feet, creating an intensely passionate scene.

    Chen Fan''s opponent for this round was none other than Yan Hong from Burning Incense Valley¡ªone of thepetition''s top four favorites.

    ¡°Kid, I have to admit, you have created history. With just your ninth-level cultivation, you defeated Xu Jing and came this far. This... This will be recorded in the history books.

    ¡°Unfortunately, you met me in this round. Your luck has run out. You have no choice but to stop here, because I¡¯m a very tall mountain.¡±

    Yan Hong looked at Chen Fan. He was still confident, feeling a sense of superiority over Chen Fan.

    ¡°Save your nonsense. Thinking you can halt my momentum? You¡¯re delusional¡±

    Chen Fan raised his arm, pointing the iron spear straight at Yan Hong. His tone was simply arrogant beyond words in the eyes of the crowd.

    Yan Hong did not get angry. His gaze turned cold, and he said, "Then allow me to bring you back to reality.¡±

    He rushed toward Chen Fan, bringing about a violent storm of energy.

 Chapter 383 - Yan Hong, Defeated!

    <h4>Chapter 383 - Yan Hong, Defeated!</h4>

    Yan Hong''s movement seemed to anger the heavens, unleashing thunder that crackled fiercely. A violent storm materialized, shaking the space. It swept toward Chen Fan, seemingly aiming to tear him into pieces.

    Within Yan Hong was a profound and robust power.

    His every move carried divine momentum; it seemed like he could transform into lightning and thunder to obliterate his opponent.

    That single move proved why Yan Hong was one of the four favorites to win thepetition.

    He appeared above Chen Fan, his gaze clear and cold. With an indifferent tone, he said, ¡°It¡¯s over. Even though you¡¯re the dark horse of thispetition, you can¡¯t defeat me!¡±

    With a wave of his hand, waves surged as if the entire sea had flooded the arena. The surrounding air immobilized Chen Fan.

    A massive hand materialized above Chen Fan, seemingly capable of tearing down the heavens.

    Sea Suppressor Great Hand Seal!

    ording to rumors, when one sessfully mastered the Sea Suppressor Great Hand Seal, they could suppress all ocean storms and deep-sea monsters.

    Mastering this technique required standing amidst ocean storms, absorbing their power day and night to refine one''s primeval force.

    Over time, practitioners would connect with the ocean, absorbing its endless power to learn this rare hand seal.

    As he struck with his palm, vast, majestic ocean storms materialized one after another and swept toward Chen Fan.

    Feeling the overwhelming pressure, Chen Fan realized he had underestimated the top core disciples of the four great sects.

    They were all great talents and had all stumbled upon some unique opportunities, honing their skills and amassing immense strength.

    The force of Yan Hong''s palm strike rivaled the attacks of the ancient piranha king from the Nebulous Mysterious Realm.

    The Sea Suppressor Great Hand Seal broke through the heavens and seemed to drown Chen Fan in an endless ocean, leaving him little room to counterattack.

    Chen Fan promptly executed his killer move.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Numerous ming spear lights pierced through the void and shook the sky, aiming to shatter the descending great hand seal.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    The two¡¯s attacks collided violently, producing an endless chain of explosions. Fierce winds spiraled out, forming tornadoes that covered heaven and earth.

    <i>Ding, ding, dang, dang...</i>

    Chen Fan wielded the iron spear and stabbed the great hand seal. Sparks flew with each collision, as their primeval forces and physical strengths shed, along with their indomitable wills.

    ¡°Sea Calming Finger.¡±

    Suddenly, the great hand seal disappeared, reced by a single finger.

    Like Ruyi Jingu Bang, Yan Hong¡¯s finger grew to push back Chen Fan¡¯s spear tip.

    The finger neutralized Chen Fan¡¯s Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes immediately, revealing the iron spear¡¯s true form. It was a ck, in-looking, ancient spear with a four-sided de, radiating waves of scorching hot aura that seemed capable of melting heaven and earth.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Yan Hong flicked his finger against Chen Fan''s iron spear using the power of sea suppression and said calmly, "Impressive. You''ve withstood my Sea Suppressor Great Hand Seal, forcing me to use the Sea Calming Finger. No wonder you''ve made it this far.

    "However, acknowledging your strength is one thing; being your match is another. Admit defeat and preserve your dignity."

    Chen Fan suddenly shook his arm and his iron spear moved swiftly, attacking relentlessly.

    ¡°Sorry for disappointing you,¡± said Chen Fan, as he attacked with Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes again.

    This time, there was a subtle difference. The attack incorporated the depth of Devastating Thrust, increasing its power significantly.

    During Chen Fan¡¯s journey back to the Great Chu Empire, he had practiced his martial arts nonstop. He refined his Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes and integrated them with his self-created Devastating Thrust, enhancing the attack''s might.

    As he struck out this time, it seemed as if the mountain rivers would flow backward, the sun and the moon would lose their colors, and even the gods and the devils would retreat.

    ¡°Great spearmanship!¡±

    When Chen Fan executed this spear technique, spectators, including Core Formation realm experts, couldn''t help but marvel at the high-levelbat unfolding before them.

    The expression of Fengyunzi, Chen Muyang, and some experts who bet against Wei Buyu sank. Finally, they realized that Chen Fan was a freak¡ªsomeone they couldn¡¯t look upon with the usual lenses.

    Yan Hong was among the four strongest participants, so many believed that he would stop Chen Fan¡¯s advance. He even gained the upper hand in the first two moves they exchanged.

    However, Chen Fan switched up his move slightly, and the power of Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes increased exponentially.

    If Yan Hong were to lose to Chen Fan, it would almost guarantee Chen Fan a spot in the top three. They would have to pay a heavy price then.

    ¡°What?¡± Even Yan Hong was surprised by Chen Fan''s sudden change in tactics.

    He immediately felt as if his surrounding aura was locked in ce, and he had slipped into an extremely profound force field, unable to break free from the dire situation.

    Sounds of spirits wailing echoed in the void.

    They appeared to be wailing in agony because they couldn¡¯t resist the attack and were about to perish. They begged Chen Fan to spare their lives.

    Yan Hong¡¯s expression changed. He stepped back repeatedly; suddenly, his qi erupted and his primeval force moved about in all directions.

    ¡°Sea God Seven Forms! Sea Suppressor Form, Sea Calming Form, Serene Sea Form, Sea Pacifying Form, Sea Disrupting Form, Sea Parting Form, Sealess Form!¡±

    As he executed seven moves in a row, seven oceans suddenly appeared around Yan Hong.

    He waspletely hidden within the seven oceans, and to strike him, one had to first break through the seven oceans.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s attack was simply unstoppable.

    Terrifying force erupted and wreaked havoc. The oceans were blown apart, producing a series of loud explosions.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    Yan Hong couldn¡¯t contain his shock and fear at seeing Chen Fan neutralizing his greatest attack.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan stepped forward, darting toward Yan Hong.

    His arms appeared as though crafted from steel tendons and iron bones, brimming with seemingly boundless strength. The space cried out mournfully with a whoosh as he executed the Devastating Thrust, aiming straight for Yan Hong¡¯s throat.

    Water waves immediately flowed around Yan Hong, transforming into seventy-two streams, trying to defend him.

    This was a treasure¡ªMystic Waters Heavenly River¡ªcapable of reshaping and dispersing at will. With seventy-two intricate formations, it was nearly invulnerable, absorbing the primeval force of any attack.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s spear attack was a pure outburst of physical strength, destroying all arts.

    The seventy-two streams exploded, reverting to the Mystic Waters Heavenly River''s original form.

    The treasure mmed into Yan Hong¡¯s chest with a bang, and he flew backward immediately like a kite with its string snapped, spewing arge mouthful of blood in the air.

    With a flick of his finger, Chen Fan released a wisp of qi, shattering Yan Hong''s token.

    Yan Hong was defeated!

 Chapter 384 - Top Three

    <h4>Chapter 384 - Top Three</h4>

    The entire central battlefield fell into absolute silence because of Chen Fan again.

    Soon after, the crowd''s collective gasps echoed through the area. The expressions on everyone''s faces were filled with disbelief at what they had just seen.

    Yan Hong had lost!

    Chan Fan had defeated someone many had expected to win thepetition.

    Many were left shaken by the unexpected turn of events. Perhaps this dark horse, Chen Fan, would take the first ce for himself?

    The battlefield erupted into a frenzy of discussions, buzzing with excitement.

    ¡°Heavens, he is unstoppable. If even Yan Hong failed to beat him, who can? Could it be that he has the strength to suppress the four strongest?¡±

    "I have a feeling that Chen Fan might just walk away with the championship."

    ¡°With his victory over Yan Hong, Chen Fan has secured a spot in the top five. He''s now a strong candidate for the top three and even the first ce."

    ¡°I wonder if Yuan Kun, Li Wangsheng, or Shangguan Yuhai can stop Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    In the space on the highest stand, Wei Buyuughed out loud again.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, excellent! Just as I expected from my esteemed disciple. Well done! Fengyunzi, Chen Muyang, you people have seen it for yourselves. Even Yan Hong has lost to Chen Fan. Who stands a chance against him now? Your treasures are now mine."

    Wei Buyu reached out, wanting to collect their treasures.

    ¡°Hold on, Wei Buyu!¡± Fengyunzi shouted. He said coldly, ¡°Although Chen Fan has defeated Yan Hong, he¡¯s only entered the top five for now. Our bet is on whether he will enter the top three!¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Wei Buyu snorted coldly and said with displeasure, ¡°You old coots, you refuse to see the facts until the veryst moment. Given the current situation, his ce in the top three is practically assured. Are you going to renege on your bet?¡±

    ¡°Quit messing around, Wei Buyu. If you want our treasures, wait until Chen Fan enters the top three!¡± said a grand elder from the Floating Cloud Sword Sect.

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll let you hold on to my treasures for a while longer. Let''s see how long you can hold out. If you still refuse to hand over the treasures even after he is one of the top three, don''t me me for losing my patience.¡±

    ......

    Chen Fan came out from the arena and returned to his seat with an indifferent expression.

    He had now entered the top five; another victory and he would enter the top three.

    Suddenly, a wave of discussion swept across the battlefield like a tidal wave.

    The battle for the top three had begun, featuring Spring Autumn Sect''s Yuan Kun and Floating Cloud Sword Sect''s Li Wangsheng as the designated fighters.

    These two were considered the top contenders for the first-ce title in the martial artspetition, even more so than Shangguan Yuhai and Yan Hong.

    Thus, when they were matched against one another, their fight immediately became the focal point of thispetition. Countless gazes fell on them.

    ¡°Is this for real? Yuan Kun and Li Wangsheng are facing off in this battle for the top three. Could this be a glimpse of the final showdown in thepetition?"

    ¡°The two of them are the most favored to win this martial artspetition. A fight between them is like Mars crashing into Earth.¡±

    ¡°Championship battle. This battle is like an early championship match.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire battlefield erupted with excitement.

    Suddenly, a figure d in snow-white attire appeared in the space at the highest stand. His aura was immensely powerful, exerting considerable pressure on the grand elders present.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°Duan Jingtian!¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian!¡±

    The faces of the four sects¡¯ grand elders changed.

    ¡°Greetings to all the grand elders.¡± Duan Jingtian cupped his fists, greeting the grand elders. His demeanor was neither overly respectful nor disrespectful.

    These grand elders did not mind, either, and nodded in return.

    Although Duan Jingtian was the number one holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, he was stronger than ny percent of the grand elders here. There weren¡¯t many experts at the eighth level of the Core Formation realm even across the four great sects.

    One of the grand elders seated next to Elder Liehuo vacated their spot, allowing Duan Jingtian to take the seat. This gesture highlighted Duan Jingtian''s status, as even a sect grand elder yielded to him.

    ¡°Paramita Divine Flower.¡±

    Duan Jingtian saw the Paramita Divine Flower hovering in the air. A hint of greed shed across his eyes. He wasn¡¯t that far away from reaching the ninth level.

    He had lost the liquid from the Fountain of Life, so he couldn¡¯t reach the ninth level soon, but he didn¡¯t mind that. He was confident he could reach the next level within a year and then aim for the Divine Nascent realm.

    Elder Liehuo whispered a summary of the recent events to Duan Jingtian, making thetter''s eyebrows raise in surprise.

    Meanwhile, Yuan Kun and Li Wangsheng started exchanging blows on the battlefield.

    Both of them were strong and had a more than seventy percent solid illusory core. While they were a step away from the Core Formation realm, theirbat strength was already there.

    Their sh was akin to two celestial bodies colliding, sending shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.

    ¡°Too strong. So, this is a battle between top experts below the Core Formation realm. Terrifying. Too terrifying!¡±

    ¡°I feel like there isn¡¯t any difference between them and genuine Core Formation realm experts. My god, their punches and palm strikes could simply blow up the space.

    ¡°It¡¯s too bad they ran into one another early and yed out the championship battle in advance.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Outside the arena, the crowd boiled with excitement, like they were fighting on the battlefield themselves. The atmosphere was so charged that it seemed as if the sky was copsing, the earth was splitting open, and the sun, moon, and seas were losing their light.

    The token hadn¡¯t led Chen Fan to his next fight yet, so he was also watching the fight.

    Admittedly, Yuan Kun and Li Wangsheng were indeed incredibly strong. It was like two ancient piranha kings were fighting.

    Yuan Kun¡¯s fist art was boundlessly domineering. Every punch seemed capable of copsing the sky and making the earth sink.

    On the other hand, Li Wangsheng¡¯s sword strokes seemed to be aiming for his opponent¡¯s life. Terrifying sword light illuminated the space, chilling heaven and earth.

    The two fought intensely.

    In the end, Yuan Kun was a notch above in skills and defeated Li Wangsheng.

    Immediately, almost everyone assumed that Yuan Kun would win thepetition.

    After that battle, Shangguan Yuhai fought another Illusory Core realm expert. He took down his opponent within fifty moves, disying an overwhelming superiority over his opponent.

    With that, the top three of the martial artspetition emerged: Chen Fan, Yuan Kun, and Shangguan Yuhai.

    Everyone¡¯s gaze fell on the three.

 Chapter 385 - Overturning River Collapsing Sea

    <h4>Chapter 385 - Overturning River Copsing Sea</h4>

    On the central battlefield, all eyes were fixed on Chen Fan, Yuan Kun, and Shangguan Yuhai¡ªthe top three in this Four Sects Martial Arts Competition!

    Yuan Kun and Shangguan Yuhai were no strangers to the spotlight. Along with Yan Hong and Li Wangsheng, they were the favorites to im victory. Their presence in the top three was within the crowd¡¯s expectations.

    However, Chen Fan''s ascent to the top ranks was unexpected yet entirely justified.

    Looking back at his previous fights, he had dominated from the start. He had proved his mettle by killing Swift de Lin Qi¡ªan expert at the ninth level¡ªwith one sword stroke.

    Every opponent he faced next had been stronger than thest. He even bested opponents who were fan-favorite picks for the top three, Xu Jing and Yan Hong.

    Given Chen Fan''s impressive performance, his inclusion among the top three was a natural and expected oue.

    ¡°This has never happened before. Throughout the history of the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, no one with ninth-level cultivation has ever reached the top three. Chen Fan... He has made history!¡±

    "Indeed, it''s astonishing. He''s already etched his name in the annals of thepetition."

    "Should Chen Fan clinch the championship, it would be truly groundbreaking."

    ¡°I have my doubts about his chances. You guys saw Yuan Kun and Li Wangsheng¡¯s battle for yourselves. It was too terrifying. Their punches and shes could shatter the stars. It''s hard to see how Chen Fan could withstand such power."

    ¡°Based on what I¡¯ve seen, I think Yuan Kun will take home the championship. He and Li Wangsheng are a tad stronger than Shangguan Yuhai and Yan Hong. That is for sure.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It looks like Yuan Kun is the clear favorite for first ce. Chen Fan will probably take second ce and Shangguan Yuhai third, as Shangguan Yuhai is as strong as Yan Hong. Unless he ignites his illusory core, he would fare no better.¡±

    ¡°Yuan Kun is themander-in-chief of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. If he obtains the Extreme Profound Elixir, he will advance to the Core Formation realm, giving the alliance another holy disciple. How truly terrifying.¡±

    ¡°Hmm... how will the matchups for the top three be decided, though?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless hot gazes fell on the three, eagerly awaiting their next moves.

    After three intense days ofpetition and numerous battles, the climax was finally approaching.

    Everyone understood that the uing matches would be the fight for the crown, and the champion would soon be revealed.

    A Core Formation realm elder descended and made Yuan Kun and Shangguan Yuhai draw lots.

    One would get a free pass, while the other would fight Chen Fan. The victor would fight the receiver of the free pass next.

    Chen Fan got a free pass in thest round. Thus, he had to fight in this round. Rules such as these had kept thepetition fair and impartial.

    Shangguan Yuhai drew the lot to fight, while Yuan Kun drew the free pass.

    Shangguan Yuhai and Chen Fan would fight, and the victor would fight Yuan Kun for first ce.

    Yuan Kun was only one final step away from winning thepetition now.

    The three of them had no objections to this arrangement.

    Soon, Chen Fan and Shangguan Yuhai¡¯s battle began.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan, right? Truthfully speaking, I, along with everyone here, never imagined you toe this far. You are now even fighting for first ce.

    ¡°Yan Hong and I are about equal in strength. Since you defeated Yan Hong, I¡¯m probably no match for you, either. Even so, I can¡¯t surrender just like this. I want to gauge your strength firsthand, the strength that even overpowered Yan Hong," Shangguan Yuhai admitted, as the previous fights had told him that he was the weakest among the top three.

    "Very well, let''s see what you''ve got," Chen Fan responded, standing tall and exuding a formidable aura.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Shangguan Yuhai did not dy any longer and immediately made his move.

    Fierce winds swept, primeval force erupted, and his powers surged, rushing toward Chen Fan like crashing waves, crushing the air.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan thrust his spear with tremendous force.

    His terrifying strength erupted like a volcano, sweeping across the sky, and it destroyed Shangguan Yuhai¡¯s attack. The ripples of the surging force spread, crashing toward Shangguan Yuhai.

    Shangguan Yuhai sensed the might of ripples, and his expression slightly changed as he realized that Chen Fan¡¯s unparalleled strength stemmed from his remarkable physique.

    ¡°Impressive. Your physical prowess is astonishing, strong enough to kill an Illusory Core realm expert. Copsing Sea Style!¡± Shangguan Yuhai roared, executing a domineering palm art.

    The attack stirred the air in this space, taking shape like an ocean. It turned upside down and rolled over, violently and chaotically. The air within three steps from him exploded, rumbling like a tsunami.

    This was the ultimate skill¡ªOverturning River Copsing Sea.

    When masteredpletely, its powers could cut through space and form a force field epassing the surrounding hundred steps. Just the resultant force ripples and the explosions could destroy treasures and tear people apart.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless,¡± said Chen Fan with an indifferent expression.

    Be it Xu Jing, Yan Hong, Shangguan Yuhai, or Yuan Kun, they had all been blessed with remarkable luck and extraordinary encounters. That allowed them to stand out from the crowd and be the best among their peers, overwhelming those at the same level with dominating strength.

    Chen Fan thrust with his hands.

    Winds roared, clouds parted, and the sea churned, culminating in a torrential downpour that soon subsided.

    Shangguan Yuhai, looking slightly flushed, unleashed a series of powerful techniques.

    Moving Mountain, Overturning River, Copsing Sea.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Every move was incredibly powerful, shaking the universe and possessing the power to crush Illusory Core realm experts.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to end this.¡± A stern light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, and an invisible qi wave spread out from him. The sound of dragon-elephants hissing rang from his blood and flesh.

    An ethereal image of ancient, time-traveling wild elephants materialized behind him.

    Unparalleled God''s Strength!

    As their moves collided, Shangguan Yuhai immediately felt his vitality dwindling. His bones and tendons felt strangely soft, and he was pushed back repeatedly. Blood seeped out of the corners of his mouth as he retreated to the edge of the arena before raising his head and looking at Chen Fan in the distance.

    Shangguan Yuhai promptly surrendered. ¡°Impressive. I¡¯m no match for you. I admit defeat.¡±

 Chapter 386 - Fight for the Championship

    <h4>Chapter 386 - Fight for the Championship</h4>

    ¡°I admit defeat.¡±

    Now, there was no doubt who would fight in the final battle.

    ¡°Good,¡± Yuan Kun whispered, trying to not roar out loud in excitement.

    He had been wishing for Chen Fan to defeat Shangguan Yuhai. After all, only then would he get the chance to kill Chen Fan.

    With Shangguan Yuhai admitting defeat, he and Chen Fan would soon be fighting. He wanted to kill Chen Fan in front of the crowd and use his fresh blood to boost the prestige of Heaven¡¯s Alliance.

    Yuan Kun leaped into the battlefield and taunted Chen Fan, ¡°Hahahaha, little bastard, I never imagined you''d be my final opponent. I wonder how you¡¯re feeling right now? Are you scared? Perhaps contemting surrendering?¡±

    ¡°Scared?¡± Deep contempt appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s face, and he replied coldly, ¡°Don''t waste your breath with taunts. My grudge against Heaven¡¯s Alliance won¡¯t end until one side is dead. Since I''m facing you now, expect nothing less than my full resolve to end you. You, on the other hand, better not surrender right away. It¡¯d be pointless otherwise.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, arrogant little bastard. Me, surrendering to you?¡± Yuan Kunughed at the sky as if he had heard the funniest joke in the world. ¡°You think you¡¯re invincible after defeating Xu Jing, Yan Hong, and Shangguan Yuhai? The word ¡®na?ve¡¯ fits you to a tee!

    ¡°I can¡¯t be bothered talking nonsense with you. It¡¯s best that you¡¯re not surrendering. I¡¯ll have you know very soon that provoking our Heaven¡¯s Alliance and killing our executives is the biggest mistake you¡¯ve ever made!¡±

    Only Chen Fan and Yuan Kun remained in the arena, poised for the ultimate showdown.

    One was brewing with killing intent, about tounch a devastating strike, while the other had a n in mind, rxed as if everything was in his control.

    The Core Formation realm elder asked, ¡°Chen Fan, you just fought with Shangguan Yuhai. I can give you half an hour to rest and recover¡ª¡±

    Chen Fan cut him off rudely with a wave of his hand and said, ¡°No need for that. I don¡¯t need to rest to kill trash like him. Let¡¯s start right away.¡±

    Yuan Kun was enraged and said, ¡°Hmph, your arrogance really knows no bounds, little bastard. Fine, I¡¯ll send you to hell right away and let you die without a burial ce.¡±

    ¡°Yuan Kun, you¡¯re just Duan Jingtian¡¯sckey, but you really think of yourself as some big shot.¡± Chen Fan looked at the furious Yuan Kun indifferently, calm inside. ¡°If Duan Jingtian is here, it would be even better. I''ll make him watch as I butcher hispdog. Let''s see if he dares to intervene."

    ¡°You damned bastard, you¡¯re courting death! You¡¯ve thoroughly angered me!¡± Yuan Kun was smoking from his seven orifices in anger. Cloud and mist rose from the top of his head.

    Chen Fan''s insults had deeply wounded his pride.

    ¡°Die!¡± Yuan Kun roared,unching himself forward with lightning speed.

    With a tyrannical aura, he chopped down with his palm. A fierce and swift w appeared, swiping through the air, and shrouded Chen Fan.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡± Chen Fan sneered faintly. His movements weren¡¯t slow at all; he instantly struck.

    He punched and destroyed Yuan Kun¡¯s enormous w, generating countless ripples.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡± Yuan Kun had known that the attack wasn¡¯t enough to kill Chen Fan. If Chen Fan were that weak, he wouldn¡¯t havee this far.

    His figure swooped fiercely, like an eagle hunting a rabbit, or a ferocious tiger descending the mountain. With a flip of his palm, a heavenly halberd appeared in his hand. A fierce halberd light shot through space, shing down violently.

    Chen Fan stood proudly, afraid of nothing. He raised his arm and thrust his iron spear violently.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    <i>ng!</i>

    The iron spear and the heavenly halberd collided fiercely, producing sparks.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Deafening booms followed, shaking the space. A fierce gale ravaged the area, and a terrifying windstorm shrouded the arena.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The attack threw back Yuan Kun. He staggered back to his feet with an ugly expression.

    <i>Whoa!</i>

    The whole crowd outside the battlefield boiled in excitement.

    ¡°Is this for real? Chen Fan is so strong! He pushed Yuan Kun back! Was he holding back in his previous matches?"

    ¡°Chen Fan''s power is truly astonishing, almost iprehensible. It¡¯s like looking up and admiring a mountain, or looking into a bottomless pit.¡±

    "It''s too soon to judge. That was just a preliminary exchange. Yuan Kun will undoubtedly unleash his full power soon. Of course, I have to admit Chen Fan is powerful. Everyone will have to look at him in a different light.¡±

    "This showdown might surpass even the intense battle between Yuan Kun and Li Wangsheng."

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan stomped off with his foot, primeval force exploding underneath his feet. He darted straight toward Yuan Kun.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    He thrust his spear with the momentum of a ferocious tiger, capable of swallowing mountains and rivers.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An otherworldly time and space immediately appeared before Yuan Kun, revealing a ck hole.

    The ck hole had several grim reapers. They were crossing the underworld river, ready to emerge from hell and reap Yuan Kun¡¯s life.

    In the unseen world of spirits, his primeval qi copsed under Chen Fan¡¯s spear, showering the area with a dense rain of primeval qi.

    ¡°Annihte!¡± Unwilling to be outdone, Yuan Kun unleashed his full power. His aura skyrocketed, suppressing the four seas.

    The heavenly halberd in his hand descended in a profound arc, colliding with Chen Fan¡¯s thrust as if it were grounded.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A Terrifying explosion immediately spread out. The air copsed and crumbled. Various whirlwinds, storms, and wind swept out chaotically in the arena.

    ¡°Halberd of Annihtion!¡± Yuan Kun roared, his primeval force rumbled, surging into his heavenly halberd.

    The halberd shone resplendently as if a heavenly god was holding it. Even the sky trembled, and immortals had to fear for their lives.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan moved within that time-space, floating gracefully, easily avoiding the whirlwinds. Godly strength surged within him as he prepared to thrust his spear violently again.

    ¡°Haha, great timing. Eat this, Devastating Thrust!¡±

 Chapter 387 - Tyrant Fist

    <h4>Chapter 387 - Tyrant Fist</h4>

    ¡°What an intense fight. Heavens, I feel like my heart is going to jump out.¡±

    ¡°Neither of them is giving in an inch. It¡¯s like Mars crashing onto Earth. We have all underestimated Chen Fan. He is definitely on par with Yuan Kun, Li Wangsheng, and the others.¡±

    ¡°Regardless of the winner, this fight will undoubtedly be remembered in history."

    ¡°......¡±

    Outside the arena, all eyes were fixed on the two figures fiercely battling in the field. The sheer force of their collisions left the crowd stunned and breathless. The fight seemed unreal.

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    Wielding the iron spear, every stab and dig from Chen Fan had terrifying strength, capable of destroying mountains and rivers, sending shivers down people''s spines.

    Meanwhile, every strike from Yuan Kun''s celestial halberd was ferocious, with the power to shake mountains, rivers, and even the stars.

    Their attacks were merciless, aiming for their opponent¡¯s life.

    After a fierce collision, Chen Fan and Yuan Kun drew back, standing opposite one another.

    Yuan Kun looked up, staring at Chen Fan. A fierce, sharp light shot out from his eyes. ¡°You damned little bastard. You''ve been hiding your true strength.¡±

    His gaze was intimidating as if it could prate anyone. His aura became even more formidable.

    ¡°Die!¡± Yuan Kun shouted, emanating an extremely terrifying aura.

    Wisps of unyielding energy erupted from him, whistling as he struck. His attacks grew a notch more powerful.

    The entire space in the arena was filled with mournful whistling noises.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Carrying an unbreakable force, the heavenly halberd pierced through the time-space and violently descended.

    <i>C.</i>

    An ominous force field enveloped the area, suppressing Chen Fan, trying to trap him for all eternity.

    Yet, Chen Fan remained undaunted.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    He channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, gathering divine strength within him. It surged and flowed before erupting.

    The terrifying strength shook the area, shattering the starry sky. It was not something a mere force field could restrict.

    A series of explosions rang out, generating endless rumbles.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    Brandishing his iron spear, Chen Fan cleaved through the air and everything in its path. Yuan Kun¡¯s attack dissipated, and Chen Fan''s overwhelming strength crashed into his protective primal force, instantly destroying it.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Yuan Kun hastily retreated. Explosions echoed around him like firecrackers. His protective primeval force shook as the attack¡¯s might rushed inside him, jolting his organs.

    <i>Thud!</i>

    Chen Fan stood proudly on his spot, wielding his iron spear with unrivaled vigor. He looked at Yuan Kun with a stern gaze and said indifferently, ¡°Yuan Kun, bring out your strongest move, or you¡¯ll die right here. No one can save you!¡±

    Chen Fan had already pushed the power of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to its fullest to suppress Yuan Kun and shake everyone.

    Yuan Kun¡¯s expression became hideous, staring fixedly at Chen Fan. He was very shaken up inside.

    Chen Fan''s strength was astonishing, and it seemed to be growing with each moment.

    Yuan Kun realized that this was Chen Fan''s true power. In previous battles, Chen Fan had held back, but now he was fighting to kill, revealing his full strength.

    ¡°Amazing. Truly amazing. This is Chen Fan¡¯s true strength. How terrifying.¡±

    "I agree. He''s been hiding his true strength all along.¡±

    ¡°This match is incredible. Yuan Kun doesn''t seem entirely confident in defeating Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s gazes flickered wildly, and their minds were incredibly shaken.

    In the highest seats, the grand elders exchanged nces, speechless. Yet, they didn¡¯t feel all that surprised strangely.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder this guy was so confident back then. Given the toughness of his physique, he could even fight against a Core Formation realm expert. Oh, right, I almost forgot about the news that came from the Nebulous Mysterious Realm. Chen Fan fought a Core Formation blood demon to a standstill, with both sides being gravely wounded.¡± Even Wei Buyu was shocked inside.

    News of what had happened inside the Nebulous Mysterious Realm has spread. He knew Chen Fan had entered the mysterious realm, and thus paid a little bit of attention to it.

    Looking into it had truly shocked him.

    Duan Jingtian''s gaze towards Chen Fan flickered with uncertainty

    Memories of their confrontation on Dragon Mountain Peak a year and a half ago resurfaced. He had descended with overwhelming dominance, intending to end Chen Fan''s life. If Wei Buyu hadn''t intervened, Chen Fan would have been killed.

    Chen Fan''s taunts had led to their three-year agreement, which Duan Jingtian had never taken seriously.

    However, this tiny ant had grown tremendously, making him feel a hint of threat. The threat didn¡¯te from Chen Fan¡¯s strength but from his potential.

    Chen Fan had grown too quickly!

    In just a year and a half, a Qi Grandmaster had be strong enough to fight against a Core Formation realm expert. What would another eighteen months bring?

    Unfortunately, killing Chen Fan wouldn''t be as simple as before.

    Considering the tremendous strength and potential Chen Fan had shown in this martial artspetition, it would be extremely difficult for him toy a finger on Chen Fan. After all, they were not the only ones paying attention to this battle. The leaders of the four great sects, as well as the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s High Elder, were also paying attention to it.

    ¡°Damn it, my hasty decision allowed this ''ant'' to grow so powerful. If I had known this would happen, I would have gotten rid of him without hesitation!¡±

    Iparably cold killing intent flickered in Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes.

    ......

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Finally, Yuan Kun had decided to go all out.

    As he unleashed his power, a terrifying storm swirled around him. His aura rose to the skies, stirring the heavens, trying to break through heaven and earth.

    He suddenly put away his heavenly halberd and leaped into the air. With a shake of his fists, an iparably overbearing and fierce wind arose that seemed to twist and distort the space. A boundless force erupted, disrupting time and annihting history.

    ¡°Tyrant Fist!¡±

    An oppressive force swept over Chen Fan, making him feel as though he might contort, and the attack would suppress his strength.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, sensing a dangerous aura.

    Yuan Kun had used his hidden ace in the hole. Tyrant Fist was an earth tier martial skill; moreover, he had practiced it to an extremely high level. Coupled with his immense strength, he could contend against a first-level Core Formation realm expert with it.

    ¡°Good timing, watch me destroy your fists with my spear!¡±

    Unfazed, Chen Fan''s blood boiled with excitement. His tendons bulged noisily, and his bones rubbed against one another, producing crackling noises.

    He faced Yuan Kun¡¯s terrifying fist art head-on, thrusting his spear with an earth-shattering force!

 Chapter 388 - Insane Battle

    <h4>Chapter 388 - Insane Battle</h4>

    The two shed instantly, unleashing powerful storms that tore through heaven and earth.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    ¡°Boundless Tyranny!¡±

    Yuan Kun¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot. His aura rolled out, rising to the sky and stirring the heavens. His fist technique had the momentum of heaven and earth and unrivaled overbearingness.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t backing down, either, violently swinging his arm and thrusting his iron spear multiple times, creating a wall of fiery spears with no gaps.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    The powerful impact generated fierce winds, howling as if the space had shattered. The scene looked like something straight out of an apocalypse.

    Everyone fell silent at this moment, holding their breaths. The crowd watched as the twobatants exchanged blows, their hearts pounding in anticipation.

    ¡°Tyrant¡¯s Rampage!¡± Yuan Kun was like a god standing above the clouds, overlooking the mortal world.

    His domineering aura seemed endless, and when it merged with his fist art, he was unstoppable. It seemed like he would destroy everything.

    ¡°Devastating Thrust!¡±

    Chen Fan was like a tiny boat drifting in a storm, stubbornly holding on among those fierce winds and gigantic waves. It seemed like Yuan Kun¡¯s hurricanes would swallow him soon.

    ¡°Tyrant¡¯s Dominion!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Yuan Kun punched, his fist shining with ck light and drawing in all the surrounding air currents.

    This punch seemed to have formed an otherworldly space-time where Yuan Kun''s dominance reigned supreme.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, emitting a cold, piercing light.

    Yuan Kun was indeed incredibly powerful; some would even say that he was invincible under the Core Formation realm.

    His Tyrant Fist was truly domineering. Each punch seemed overwhelming and unstoppable.

    Moreover, Yuan Kun had alreadyprehended the concept of ¡°tyranny,¡± integrating it into his Tyrant Fist, showcasing the true beauty and power of the martial technique.

    As the punch hurtled toward Chen Fan, he felt as if the domain of a tyrant was descending and trying to have him submit to the tyranny.

    <i>Hooo!</i> Chen Fan took in a deep breath, and his eyes suddenly shone iparably sternly.

    ¡°Heaven Piercing Thrust!¡±

    With a roar, Chen Fan¡¯s aura surged, rushing straight into the sky.

    This attackbined the forces of his Devastating Thrust and Heaven Piercing Spear, resulting in an enhanced version of his Devastating Thrust. All his power converged at a single point, with no energy wasted.

    With a single thrust, he could pierce through the sky!

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A thunderous boom echoed, resulting from a massive explosion that swallowed the entire area.

    The air spiraled into chaos, whistling wildly as it engulfed Chen Fan and Yuan Kun.

    The spectators¡¯ hearts jumped fiercely, shaken by the shocking collision.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan and Yuan Kun shot out from the chaotic, terrifying windstorm.

    In the earlier exchange, they had seemed evenly matched, neither managing to gain the upper hand.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Yuan Kun rushed out fiercely almost instantly, darting toward Chen Fan with a threatening momentum.

    ¡°im of Hegemony!¡±

    As he unleashed the final strike of the Tyrant Fist, a dazzling fist light eclipsed all other light in the heavens and earth. The audience was captivated by the sheer elegance of this attack.

    The ferocious air currents seemed to yield to this punch, converging and amplifying its force.

    An umbre-shaped surface appeared in space, carrying the power to shatter everything, and rushed toward Chen Fan.

    Hearts pounded wildly as if they might burst from their chests.

    <i>Thump, thump! Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    Facing this punch, a sense of despair washed over countless people.

    This terrifying punch was reflected in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He stood motionless on the spot, seemingly scared out of his wits.

    Chen Fan suddenly exhaled and put his iron spear away, as if he had given up on resisting. Everyone was surprised, thinking perhaps Chen Fan was about to admit defeat.

    However, that was thest thing on his mind.

    ¡°Fine, it¡¯s about time for this boring game to end. Even if you have thousands of methods, the only road ahead of you is death. In your next life, remember not to be Duan Jingtian''s dog!" Chen Fan sprang into action.

    He raised his palm, and his intent of reaping lives surged to the sky.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡± Chen Fan thrust his palm forward.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The fabric of space seemed on the brink of tearing apart, emitting a deafening roar. A palm imprint with only three fingers materialized in the air.

    Star qi twisted and coiled around the three fingers, revealing ancient inscriptions that spelled out ¡°cripple,¡± ¡°destroy,¡± and ¡°absolute.¡± Each character exuded an overwhelming power and aura.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    With the Northern Star Reaper Hand unleashed, massive waves of energy surged, creating a whirlwind in space. They swept forward like a tidal wave, obliterating everything in its path.

    The punch and the palm strike collided, resulting in another earth-shaking explosion.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Terrifying ripples from the attack spread in the air, piercing through space. Outside the battlefield, Xu Jing, Yan Hong, Li Wangsheng, and the others were all horrified.

    <i>Boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The punch and the palm seal fiercely collided in the air repeatedly, raising endless hurricanes. The space shook violently as if it would shatter like a mirror.

    ¡°Shatter for me!¡± Chen Fan shouted. The nine illusory primeval vessels inside him erupted at once, his aura surging to the skies.

    The power behind Chen Fan''s Northern Star Reaper Hand surged dramatically, shattering Yuan Kun''s punch with a resounding boom.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    With no resistance left from the Tyrant Fist, the Northern Star Reaper Hand descended upon Yuan Kun like the hand of fate, closing in to deliver a fatal blow.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± Yuan Kun spat out a mouthful of blood, bbergasted. His face flushed red; his eyes trembled, failing toprehend what his eyes were seeing.

    Unfortunately, he had no time to think.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Northern Star Reaper Hand was already upon him. That reaper intent made Yuan Kun acutely aware of his impending doom.

    ¡°No, you little bastard. How could you possibly be my match?! Illusory core, ignite!¡± Yuan Kun shouted, driven to desperation by Chen Fan''s dominance.

    He was the number one core disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, an expert with a nearly seventy to eighty percent solid illusory core. How could he be defeated by a brat in the Yuanfu realm? That was simply the biggest joke in the world.

    Desperate, he ignited his illusory core for more power.

    Yuan Kun¡¯s strength climbed higher, nearing the threshold of the Core Formation realm. His terrifying punch tore through space, shattering space-time, and mmed into Chen Fan¡¯s Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

 Chapter 389 - Seizing Victory

    <h4>Chapter 389 - Seizing Victory</h4>

    No one expected Yuan Kun to ignite his illusory core at the crucial moment.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    His burning illusory core helped his aura skyrocket in an instant, reaching a terrifying level. His aura was almost on par with a genuine Core Formation realm expert¡¯s. He was now so powerful that storms danced around him.

    His eyes glinted with a wild fervor. As he punched, the formidable force transformed into a qi dragon, tearing through space, disrupting the fabric of space-time, and colliding with Chen Fan''s Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    This punch seemed to drain the world of its vibrancy; the sun and the moon dimmed, and the stars trembled.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand, having exhausted more than half of its powers thus far, shook under this punch. The starry qi broke apart, creating a spiderweb of cracks.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Northern Star Reaper Hand shattered, and Yuan Kun stared at Chen Fan with an unrivaled aura and said coldly, ¡°You damned little bastard, you forced me to ignite my illusory core. You deserve to die! You deserve a thousand deaths for your sins!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura also rose to the skies, fighting for dominance in the air against Yuan Kun¡¯s aura. The two each upied half of the skies, their auras evenly matched.

    With his clothes billowing, Chen Fan''s expression turned icy as he retorted, ¡°Me, die? No, you deserve death here. You think igniting your illusory core would change anything? What a joke! I have fought genuine Core Formation realm experts before, so you can never defeat me. Let alone your illusory core, even if you ignited your vitality, it wouldn¡¯t change one fact¡ªtoday, you will die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words instantly shocked the crowd, and they stared wide-eyed and ck-jawed, questioning his ims.

    The crowd buzzed with skepticism, discussing Chen Fan''s ims.

    ¡°No way. But... has he really fought a Core Formation realm expert before?¡±

    "Impossible! Core Formation realm cultivators are the elite of the Great Chu Empire. Their power far surpasses those of the Yuanfu and the Illusory Core realm."

    ¡°That¡¯s right. If he had faced such experts, they couldn''t possibly be Core Formation realm cultivators. He''s likely saying this now to rattle Yuan Kun. It''s probably just a tactic."

    ¡°Right, it¡¯s likely a mind game. Now that Yuan Kun has been forced into igniting his powers of illusory core, he is infinitely close to being a Core Formation realm expert. He¡¯s trying to suppress Yuan Kun¡¯s momentum.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Hoho, Wei Buyu, your disciple is quite audacious. What shameless boasting, iming to have fought a Core Formation realm expert. How nonsensical.¡± Fengyunzi seized the opportunity to mock Wei Buyu.

    Wei Buyu said calmly, ¡°You underestimate my disciple''s abilities. Whatever, I¡¯ll let you prattle on and unt for a bit. After all, you''ve lost your wagers to me. Your treasures are now mine. I understand it stings, but I''ll graciously overlook your bitterness."

    Fengyunzi¡¯splexion turned green and white, his expression ugly. He said coldly, ¡°Hmph, Wei Buyu, although we lost the bet, your disciple is bound to get killed. Yuan Kun has ignited his illusory core, so he should be about as strong as a first-level Core Formation realm expert. Even though you won our treasures, you will lose your disciple.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, Fengyunzi, keep your eyes wide open. Watch and see whoes out on top.¡± Wei Buyuughed out loud, not worried about Chen Fan at all.

    This remark left Fengyunzi and others uncertain about the oue.

    Chen Fan had performed too well in this martial artspetition. He was undeniably a rare talent,parable to the likes of Duan Jingtian. They themselves wouldn''t hesitate to recruit such a talent and nurture him.

    Yet, Wei Buyu seemed entirely unperturbed, confident in Chen Fan''s safety, which puzzled them.

    ......

    ¡°An ignorant and arrogant little bastard like you wants to rattle me with such petty tricks? What a joke! Your fate was sealed the moment I activated my illusory core. You have no idea who you''re up against. Let me rify: I''m now on par with a true Core Formation realm expert!" Yuan Kun dered arrogantly.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you¡¯re no big deal. You¡¯ll find out very soon howughable your confidence is, and fall into despair!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death! You deserve to die!¡± Yuan Kun was enraged.

    Shouldn¡¯t Chen Fan be trembling in fear in front of him? Yet, Chen Fan appeared unfazed, even showing disdain for him.

    Anger!

    This ignited Yuan Kun''s fury.

    ¡°I¡¯ll show you how powerful I am and how mistaken you are!"

    Yuan Kun could no longer contain his frustration. He lunged forward, punching with overwhelming force.

    Chen Fan advanced instead of retreating and said with an indifferent expression, ¡°You thought I was ying mind games with you? Don''t be ridiculous! Frankly, you''re not even worth my engaging in psychological warfare. Let me show you what real strength looks like."

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Chen Fan shot forth at once like a cannonball.

    He pushed the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the limit. Boundless godly strength erupted as a chain of explosions rang out around him.

    As he threw his punch, heaven and earth seemed to change their colors, and the winds reversed their course.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Yuan Kun''s punch crumbled like tofu or softened butter upon impact, much to his astonishment. His attack seemed even more fragile than before he ignited his illusory core¡ªa baffling oue.

    ¡°Tyrant''s Rampage!¡±

    ¡°Tyrant''s Dominion!¡±

    Yuan Kun unleashed two rapid punches, each brimming with formidable power capable of reshaping the world.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. My strength isn¡¯t something you canpare to by burning your illusory core!" Chen Fan dered, his expression unwavering. He went toward the terrifying fist light and struck out with both fists, resembling two stars colliding.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    In an instant, Chen Fan shattered Yuan Kun''s attacks, leaving him unable to resist even slightly.

    ¡°Impossible! How can you be so strong?¡± Yuan Kun shook his head wildly like a madman, failing toprehend how Chen Fan could overpower him even now.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible. I already told you, I¡¯m not even afraid of genuine first-level Core Formation realm experts, let alone a half-baked one like you!¡± Chen Fan said coldly, striding forward in the sky imposingly. All the storms of wind calmed down under his steps.

    ¡°im of Hegemony, go to hell!¡± Yuan Kun was mad. He had gone crazy,pletely burning his illusory core, determined to kill Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan shook his head and sighed. ¡°Do you still not understand? The gap between you and me is like a gulf. It¡¯s not something you can make up for by igniting your illusory core.¡±

    Chen Fan struck through the air, shattering space and time. He destroyed all obstacles in his path, appearing in front of Yuan Kun. He raised his fist, about to throw it down.

    ¡°Alright, you can go die now!¡±

    Suddenly, an earth-shaking shout shook the skies.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

 Chapter 390 - Boundless Tyranny

    <h4>Chapter 390 - Boundless Tyranny</h4>

    An earth-shaking shout shook the skies like a lightning strike and stopped Chen Fan from delivering the killing blow.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    <i>Rumble, rumble, rumble!</i>

    From the highest tform, amanding voice echoed, resonating with authority and power, reminiscent of an emperor who ruled with unparalleled might.

    <i>Whoa, whoa.</i>

    Outside the arena, the forceful cry jolted the weaker disciples. Their qi and blood churned unsteadily, and they spewed out fresh blood one after another, their faces turning pale.

    A chorus of voices erupted,ing from disciples of the four major sects.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice!¡±

    ¡°The Alliance Leader has shown himself.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Recognizing the furious shout, members of the Heaven''s Alliance rose to their feet, as if they were about to prostrate themselves in worship.

    Duan Jingtian¡ªsomeone rarely seen but widely revered.

    Let alone the Spring Autumn Sect, Duan Jingtian was renowned even in the other three major secs, with quite a number of admirers.

    He was just too dazzling,pletely overshadowing the number one holy disciples of the other three great sects.

    In the arena, Chen Fan¡¯s qi and blood were also shaken. The cirction of his primeval force became sluggish, and his expression sank.

    He didn¡¯t expect Duan Jingtian to really appear.

    Duan Jingtian hadn¡¯t interfered when he killed Lin Qi and Liu Wuxiang, but he had shown himself now.

    Yuan Kun was momentarily stunned before a gleeful smirk spread across his face. Laughing maniacally, he said, ¡°Hahahaha, little bastard, Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is here. You¡¯re dead! You¡¯re dead! You want to kill me? Not a chance!¡±

    Moments earlier, Yuan Kun had been on the brink of despair, with Chen Fan seemingly ready to end his life.

    Had Duan Jingtian not intervened, Yuan Kun''s fate would have been sealed.

    He didn¡¯t have to die anymore!

    Chen Fan would be the one dying!

    Chen Fan seized Yuan Kun by the neck, lifting him effortlessly like he was picking a chick.

    He raised his head, looking through the space, and saw Duan Jingtian above, looking down on him like a godly figure.

    Duan Jingtian stood tall like a heavenly god, towering over him, his eyes radiating an intense light. His hands were behind him, his back straight as if a spear was inside him, piercing through the skies.

    His very presence seemed to hold up the sky, and the aura surrounding him made others want to kneel and worship him.

    A boundless, oppressive force pierced through the central battlefield¡¯s barrier and pressed down on Chen Fan.

    If it weren¡¯t for Chen Fan¡¯s iparably strong will and his powerful cultivation, he would have knelt on the ground as he had on Dragon Mountain Peak.

    <i>So strong! Too strong! It''s like facing an ancient divine mountain, a god-king of old! I can fight against first-level Core Formation realm experts, but I''m nothing but an ant before him. </i>Chen Fan thought, holding firm against the crushing force.

    ¡°How dare you try to harm themander of my alliance! Who gave you the audacity? Speak!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Even his voice seemed to suppress Chen Fan like it had heavenly might.

    Chen Fan¡¯s bones creaked out loud, but a surge of power welled up within him. He stood tall, meeting Duan Jingtian''s gaze squarely.

    ¡°In this martial arts contest, wherebatants risk their lives, the victor is the king, while the defeated are but thieves. Yuan Kun was no match for me; his fate was just,¡± said Chen Fan loudly, his voice ringing throughout the battlefield.

    The countless disciples¡ªwhether from the Spring Autumn Sect or the three other great sects¡ªheard him and were astounded.

    ¡°He dares to confront Duan Jingtian so boldly? Remarkable! Such audacity!¡±

    Theplexion of the holy disciples from the other three great sects didn¡¯t look good due to Duan Jingtian¡¯s pressure. Yet, Chen Fan had dared to rebuke him. He was truly a bold fool who wasn¡¯t afraid of death.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Wei Buyu and the others also appeared from the space at the highest stand and said furiously, ¡°Duan Jingtian, what are you trying to do? This is the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition. It¡¯s no ce for you to act presumptuously!¡±

    Duan Jingtian shifted his gaze from Chen Fan to Wei Buyu, his tone unwavering and supremely authoritative. "And? What of it?"

    Those four words encapsted Duan Jingtian''s unyielding nature.

    So what if it was a martial artspetition between the four great sects?

    When Duan Jingtian acted, exnations were unnecessary.

    Wei Buyu¡¯s gaze darkened. He said coldly, ¡°So, you¡¯re saying you don¡¯t care one bit about the rules!¡±

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Duan Jingtian snorted coldly and said indifferently, ¡°I established the Heaven¡¯s Alliance, expanded its influence across the world, deterred the four seas, and annexed thends. Who are you to lecture me on rules? I am the embodiment of order!"

    ¡°How overbearing, his tyranny knows no bounds!¡±

    "This is the real Duan Jingtian¡ªan unparalleled force, answerable to no one!"

    The crowd¡¯s minds shook at his promation; simultaneously, they felt like their blood was boiling.

    Who among the other holy disciples would dare say something so rebellious?

    Only Duan Jingtian!

    Why was that so?

    Because of his immense strength!

    ¡°You sure are audacious, Duan Jingtian. It seems you have no respect for even our sect.¡± Wei Buyu¡¯s voice was very cold as he continued, ¡°So be it if you ignored the rules and made a move during the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training, but this martial artspetition is about the honor of the four great sects. You have no right to meddle. If you remain obstinate, I will have no choice but to step in and suppress you!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Duan Jingtianughed out loud. Hisughter was like thunder, shaking the skies. ¡°Suppress me, Duan Jingtian? With just you?¡±

    Duan Jingtian looked at Wei Buyu disdainfully and said, ¡°I don''t mean to belittle you, Wei Buyu, but do you truly believe you have what it takes to stop me? I do want to see who dares to stop me if I make a move!¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s face turned ashen. Duan Jingtian had humiliated him¡ªa grand elder of the Spring Autumn Sect with high status and authority¡ªin front of countless people.

    "So, you''re set on defying everyone?"

    ¡°Defying everyone......¡±

    An iparably sharp light shot out from Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes. His aura surged wildly, covering the skies; everyone felt suffocated.

    ¡°Cut the crap. This little bastard killed my Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s executives. There¡¯s no way I will spare him today. Whoever stands in my way is my enemy, and only death awaits them!¡±

 Chapter 391 - Sect Leader Compromising

    <h4>Chapter 391 - Sect Leader Compromising</h4>

    Duan Jingtian spat out those shocking words, shaking the universe.

    Anyone who tried to stop him from killing Chen Fan would be regarded as his enemy and would meet their end!

    His audacious statement showed tant disregard for Wei Buyu.

    ¡°One should raise their children to be like Duan Jingtian!¡±

    Many people felt their blood boiling. Instead of finding Duan Jingtian arrogant, they found his words reasonable, feeling admiration well up within them.

    ¡°Hmph, Duan Jingtian, so what if I killed your executives? I¡¯ll kill even Yuan Kun right in front of you. Let''s see how you''ll save him now!¡± Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s icy words resounded through heaven and earth.

    He unleashed a force from the hand gripping Yuan Kun''s neck, which rushed into thetter¡¯s body. The force scrambled Yuan Kun''s organs, reducing them to a pulp.

    ¡°You...¡± Yuan Kun never expected Chen Fan to dare kill him in front of Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian''s anger reached its peak. His fury was so intense that it altered the colors of the sky and clouds.

    ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    As if the god of destruction was enraged, a terrifying aura descended into the world, wanting to destroy the mortal world.

    <i>Boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The terrifying aura came from Duan Jingtian; it enveloped the sun and the moon, even shaking the space intensely.

    Everyone felt as if they had sunk into a boundless hell.

    Under Duan Jingtian¡¯s rage, they were insignificant like ants, destined to be swept away in the catastrophe and meet their end.

    Consumed by rage, Duan Jingtian attacked, and it seemed like the heavens were pressing down, the sun, moon, and stars would shatter, and even the gods and devils would perish.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Chen Fan sensed that an intense spatial ripple was trying to destroy his meridians, rupture his orifices, and reduce his dantian to ashes.

    Duan Jingtian''s overwhelming might rendered Chen Fan powerless to resist.

    ¡°I¡¯ll risk it all!¡±

    Chen Fan was just about to channel the Heaven Seizing Art and revolve the Heaven Seizing Furnace to suppress the force when the small golden person hiding in the depths of his brow suddenly twitched.

    Endless strength surged from his be instantly. In just a sh, it shattered all of Duan Jingtian''s energy attacking Chen Fan''s meridians, redirecting it into his dantian, boosting his strength exponentially. His aura skyrocketed, reaching the Illusory Core realm.

    ¡°Insolence!¡± Wei Buyu shouted angrily, his formidable aura crashing like waves.

    He destroyed Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack with a palm strike. After all, Wei Buyu couldn¡¯t watch as Duan Jingtian tried to kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°It seems that you intend on going against me, Wei Buyu. Fine, I¡¯ll execute you in front of everyone today. I¡¯ll see who still dares to stand against me in the Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in Duan Jingtian¡¯s hand. With a sweeping motion, he tore through space and time, targeting Wei Buyu.

    Duan Jingtian had attacked him¡ªa grand elder.

    Wei Buyu reacted swiftly. His cultivation erupted, and he countered with an attack.

    <i>ng, ng, ng, ng!</i>

    A series of sharp sounds echoed instantly.

    One of Wei Buyu''s treasures was obliterated on the spot. With the halberd''s light piercing through his protective energy, fresh blood sprayed, leaving a grievous wound on his chest. It was a harrowing sight.

    In just one move, Wei Buyu was defeated!

    Duan Jingtian''s power was terrifyingly overwhelming!

    ¡°In this world, who could be a match for me aside from Divine Nascent realm powerhouses?¡±

    His halberd was shimmering with a sharp light. Traces of blood could be seen on it; they belonged to Wei Buyu. Duan Jingtian said, ¡°Wei Buyu, even if you were joined by all the grand elders from the High Elder¡¯s faction, you wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against me. How dare you act arrogant and stand in my way with your minuscule strength? You clearly don¡¯t know your ce!¡±

    ¡°You...!¡± Wei Buyu uttered in anger, pressing down on his wound to suppress the bleeding.

    ¡°Cut the nonsense and get lost. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll kill you right away!¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s ferocity was unrivaled. His qi rose to the clouds, his tyranny knew no bounds.

    Chen Fan was also stunned. He didn¡¯t expect his master to lose in a single move. He was simply powerless to retaliate.

    Suddenly, a cold voice rang out of nowhere.

    ¡°Enough!¡±

    The unrivaled and ferocious Duan Jingtian suddenly looked as if someone had pped him. His protective primeval force blew up, and his aura went into disarray as he spewed fresh blood. He was sent flying five miles back, his fresh blood spilling along the way.

    ¡°What just happened?¡±

    This sudden turn of events immediately shocked the crowd.

    Duan Jingtian had defeated Wei Buyu in one move, but someone had sent someone that strong flying like a dead dog with a single word. He even seemed heavily injured now.

    Another voice rang out.

    ¡°Senior Brother!¡±

    An invisible hand caught Duan Jingtian while he was still flying back, unable to find his bnce. The primeval qi of heaven and earth came surging.

    All kinds of powerful energies rushed inside Duan Jingtian. In no time, Duan Jingtian''s aura stabilized, despite his severe injuries.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Spring Autumn Sect Leader!¡±

    Upon hearing this voice, Chen Fan immediately recognized its owner. It was none other than the Spring Autumn Sect Leader¡¯s voice; he had once heard it before at the Dragon Mountain Peak.

    Then, the identity of the first voice became self-evident¡ªit was the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s High Elder.

    In the entire Spring Autumn Sect, only two people could suppress Duan Jingtian. One of them was the Spring Autumn Sect Leader, and the other was the High Elder.

    ¡°Feng Baiyu, I¡¯ve already spared Duan Jingtian¡¯s tant disregard of thews once. He has ignored the sect rules on multiple asions, thinking he could trample on them. This is the second time. What do you have to say?¡±

    Both the High Elder and the Spring Autumn Sect Leader did not show themselves. However, their voices resounded clearly in space. Everyone heard them.

    ¡°Senior Brother, Jingtian was acting out of anger.¡± The Spring Autumn Sect Leader¡¯s voice rang out.

    ¡°Acting out of anger?¡± The High Elder¡¯s indifferent voice rang out as he said, ¡°Feng Baiyu, you¡¯ve already shielded him once. I can forget about the time when he broke the rules at the outer sect¡¯s Dragon Mountain Blessed Land training, but this is the four great sects¡¯ martial artspetition. He not only broke the rules but also threatened to harm others and their families every time he spoke, showing tant disrespect toward the four great sects. You¡¯re saying this is acting out of anger? I might overlook this, but what about the reputation of the other three great sects? How would they view us if news of this spreads?"

    The expressions of the elders of the other three great sects were very ugly.

    While they took some satisfaction in seeing internal strife within the Spring Autumn Sect, Duan Jingtian''s actions had undeniably disrespected the other three sects.

    The space fell silent briefly. Finally, the Spring Autumn Sect Leader¡¯s voice rang out once more.

    ¡°How about this? Duan Jingtian will go to the ck Wind Cliff and face the wall in reflection of his actions for a year as punishment with immediate effect. He will not be allowed to take half a step outside of ck Wind Cliff during this period.¡±

    As his voice rang out, many people¡¯s expressions changed, realizing that the Spring Autumn Sect Leader had made apromise.

 Chapter 392 - Curtain Falls on the Competition

    <h4>Chapter 392 - Curtain Falls on the Competition</h4>

    The Spring Autumn Sect Leader hadpromised!

    When the Spring Autumn Sect Leader¡¯s words rang out, many exchanged knowing nces.

    Among the four prominent sects in Qingyang County, the Spring Autumn Sect clearly stood out as the strongest.

    The reason was straightforward: it boasted two Divine Nascent realm experts, the Sect Leader and the High Elder. Had they been allies, Qingyang County likely would have looked very different today, with the Spring Autumn Sect reigning supreme.

    Unfortunately, tensions between the Spring Autumn Sect Leader and the High Elder ran deep, dividing the sect into three factions. This internal strife weakened them significantly, preventing the sect from uniting as one.

    All three of the other great sects were well aware of this matter.

    With the sudden emergence of Duan Jingtian, the Sect Leader¡¯s faction had started gaining the upper hand. Many of the elders jumped ships and joined the Sect Leader¡¯s faction, sidelining the High Elder''s followers.

    If and when Duan Jingtian advanced to the Divine Nascent realm, it would spell disaster for the High Elder¡¯s faction. Thus, over the years, the High Elder¡¯s faction had been searching for disciples with immense talent to nurture as a countermeasure against Duan Jingtian''s growing influence.

    However, Duan Jingtian was simply too exceptionally gifted. His cultivation improved at a rapid pace. It was simply impossible for the disciples recruited to the High Elder¡¯s faction to resist Duan Jingtian.

    However, when Chen Fan emerged as an even more remarkable talent, the tide began to turn.

    Within just eighteen months, he advanced from a Qi Grandmaster to the peak of the Yuanfu realm, wieldingbat strength on par with a first-level Core Formation realm expert.

    This development reignited hope within the High Elder''s faction.

    Duan Jingtian also understood the threat Chen Fan posed to him. Thus, he wanted to use this opportunity to get rid of Chen Fan. However, the High Elder couldn¡¯t let things go his way.

    Wei Buyu was no match for Duan Jingtian. Therefore, the High Elder intervened personally, severely injuring Duan Jingtian in the process.

    Facing pressure from the High Elder who also had reason on his side, the Spring Autumn Sect Leader had no choice but topromise.

    However, anyone with a discerning eye could tell that the punishment¡ªbanishing Duan Jingtian to the isted ck Wind Cliff for a year¡ªwas the Sect Leader''s way of protecting him.

    He wanted to give Duan Jingtian a focused year to put all his efforts into advancing to the next realm. As a Divine Nascent realm expert, Duan Jingtian wouldmand the loyalty of the entire sect.

    Since the Spring Autumn Sect Leader had taken a step back, the High Elder also had to follow suit. After all, Duan Jingtian¡¯s status and strength were there for all to see.

    The sudden turn of events unfolded rapidly and concluded swiftly.

    The Spring Autumn Sect Leader and High Elder did not descend upon the central battlefield. Their confrontation across space forced the Sect Leader topromise, ending this storm.

    Admittedly, however, Duan Jingtian¡¯s ferocity, tyranny, arrogance, and insufferable attitude left a deep impression in the minds of everyone from the four great sects.

    Even Wei Buyu lost to Duan Jingtian in one move; one could see that Duan Jingtian was terrifyingly strong.

    The crowd had no doubts that if the High Elder hadn¡¯t struck, no one could have stopped Duan Jingtian from killing people. Even Grand Elder Wei Buyu would have to die.

    At this point, the crowd viewed Duan Jingtian as an unstoppable tyrant.

    The central battlefield buzzed with these discussions.

    ¡°This Four Great Sects Martial Arts Competition is not a wasted trip. Witnessing Duan Jingtian''s awe-inspiring power and arrogance was a sight to behold. Below the Divine Nascent realm, who can even challenge him? My heart beat so fast... and I even felt the urge to kneel in worship.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Duan Jingtian is too terrifyingly powerful. He defeated the Spring Autumn Sect''s Grand Elder Wei Buyu with ease and shattered one of his treasures. It¡¯s horrifying.¡±

    ¡°That kid named Chen Fan is also impressive. He dared to challenge Duan Jingtian multiple times and lived to tell the tale. He''s quite fortunate.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I¡¯m already looking forward to their showdown. How much will Chen Fan grow by then? Will he be able to withstand even a single blow from Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°He took the championship of this martial artspetition as a dark horse, obtaining the Extreme Profound Elixir. He¡¯ll advance to the Core Formation realm very soon after consuming it, but trying to advance a single level in the Core Formation realm is like trying to ascend to the heavens. The gap is extremely huge. It¡¯s no doubt nonsense to think of reaching Duan Jingtian¡¯s level in just a year.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Duan Jingtian stole all of Chen Fan¡¯s limelight as soon as he appeared, and things remained the same even though Duan Jingtian had already left.

    Of course, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t care less about other people¡¯s gazes.

    His expression was resolute.

    This was his second time directly confronting Duan Jingtian.

    The first time, Chen Fan had been forced to kneel on the ground in front of everyone and was ruthlessly humiliated. He had also stolen Chen Fan¡¯s Ice Jade Snow Lotus.

    The second time, Duan Jingtian wanted to kill him but failed to get his way. He also failed to humiliate Chen Fan.

    <i>Duan Jingtian, it¡¯ll be your time to die in a year. I¡¯m looking forward to our third confrontation very much. I will no longer need Master to protect me then. I¡¯ll trample you under my feet with my strength and wash away the humiliation you¡¯ve inflicted on me!</i>

    ......

    The Four Sects Martial Arts Competition concluded in an unexpected fashion, with Chen Fan emerging as the champion.

    Of course, what came as a bigger surprise was the twists and turns at the very end rted to Duan Jingtian.

    Suddenly, Wei Buyu¡¯s voice entered Chen Fan¡¯s ear.

    <i>Chen Fan,e with me.</i>

    Chen Fan followed behind Wei Buyu and flew toward the distance.

    In the air, Chen Fan asked, ¡°Master, are you alright?¡±

    Wei Buyu shook his head and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing; just a superficial wound. He really is strong... I could still fight him to a draw a year ago, but now, I can¡¯t even withstand a single move from him. He¡¯s improving too quickly. Had the High Elder not made a move, I might not have been able to stop him and could have died."

    ¡°It¡¯s my fault for dragging Master down.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that.¡± Wei Buyu shook his head and continued, ¡°This martial artspetition doesn¡¯t forbid killing to begin with. Duan Jingtian sees you as a threat due to your remarkable progress, prompting him to target you aggressively.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°I still have a year and a half. I''ll settle the score with Duan Jingtian, avenging your injuries and making him pay double!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s enough that you think this way.¡± Wei Buyu smiled.

    Chen Fan asked, ¡°Master, where are we going right now?¡±

    ¡°The High Elder wants to see you.¡±

 Chapter 393 - High Elder

    <h4>Chapter 393 - High Elder</h4>

    The martial artspetition had officially concluded.

    It had nearly turned into a farce due to Duan Jingtian''s actions.

    Had Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s High Elder not intervened, Chen Fan¡ªthe unprecedented champion¡ªwould have died at Duan Jingtian¡¯s hands, bing the shortest-lived champion of the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition.

    Many experts were stunned by Duan Jingtian''s immense power. Perhaps Duan Jingtian would be the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s sect leader in a year, gaining control over the entire sect.

    Those who support him will thrive, while those who oppose him will face ruin!

    Countless disciples of the four great sects were gossiping amongst themselves.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian is truly amazing; he nearly stirred up a storm as soon as he appeared. Even the esteemed Grand Elder couldn''t withstand his unmatched strength.¡±

    ¡°That''s the essence of power and authority. Great strength allows one to break all rules. No one among the four great sects dared to challenge his overwhelming dominance.¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian was sent off to face the wall for a year as punishment. With three of Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s experts killed by Chen Fan, I wonder if the alliance would lie low during this period, waiting for Duan Jingtian to ascend to the peak in a year?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan followed Wei Buyu to the High Elder¡¯s residence.

    Behind Wei Buyu, he passed numerous tall buildings, gradually entering the depths of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Hundreds of miles into the Spring Autumn Sect, the scenery was no longer full of magnificent buildings. All he saw were tall mountains, surrounded by clouds and mist, the fresh flowers in full bloom.

    These mountain peaks stretched to the distance, like the scales on a huge dragon. It was unknown how many of them there were; Chen Fan simply couldn¡¯t see the end of it.

    This was the deepest part of the Spring Autumn Sect, its core area, known as the Heavenly Vein Mountain.

    Rumors had it that the Spring Autumn Sectpletely upied the dragon¡¯s vein of Qingyang County. [1]

    The true top brass of the Spring Autumn Sect lived here, and some core disciples and holy disciples cultivated here.

    Hidden within this vast mountain range were numerous dangers, including killing formations that spelled doom for intruders.

    Chen Fan could naturally sense the dangers within. Thus, he didn¡¯t dare to go about as he wished and followed closely behind Wei Buyu.

    Wei Buyu had also told Chen Fan about the Heavenly Vein Mountain. Core disciples at the eighth or ninth level were qualified toe to Heavenly Vein Mountain and pick a mountain peak as their private cultivation ground.

    Pointing to a cloud-shrouded area ahead, Wei Buyu exined, ¡°That''s where our holy disciples select their private training grounds. We have twenty-three holy disciples in total. Once you reach the Core Formation realm, you can also choose a peak from there.¡±

    Chen Fan asked, ¡°Where is Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation ground?¡±

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°Duan Jingtian has a unique status. Although he is also a holy disciple, his cultivation ground isn¡¯t in this holy disciple area. It¡¯s deeper in, with a better environment.¡±

    Chen Fan came to a realization: this was a benefit brought about by Duan Jingtian¡¯s great strength. With his tremendous abilities, he could trample on the rules and no one dared to stop him. Due to his immense strength, he could choose a better mountain for cultivation. All of this was established upon his strength.

    After flying for another while, Wei Buyu said, ¡°That towering peak ahead that pierces into the clouds is the High Elder¡¯s cultivation ground.¡±

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Wei Buyu and Chen Fan soonnded at the High Elder''s secluded cultivation site, an area devoid of any other presence.

    Following Wei Buyu, Chen Fan approached a mountainside cave dwelling.

    Upon entering, he found himself in an expansive space,parable to a spacious courtyard. He also sensed a wave of rich primeval qi blowing against him, invigorating his senses.

    The cave walls were embedded with gemstones of all colors, giving it a magnificent appearance.

    ¡°Such rich primeval qi of heaven and earth.¡± Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but exim.

    Even the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land couldn¡¯tpare to the environment here. It was ten times better than the outside world.

    A middle-aged man with a fairplexion, long mustaches, and a dignified presence came into Chen Fan''s view.

    The man''s star-like eyes captured Chen Fan''s attention instantly, drawing him in as if they were ck holes. Before Chen Fan could snap out of it, he found himself breaking into a cold sweat.

    The man''s gaze was captivating, almost unnerving. Strangely, Chen Fan did not sense any cultivation fluctuation from him; he seemed utterly ordinary.

    However, Chen Fan knew that he was a terrifying character. His cultivation had reached the point of returning to his natural state.

    Even without an introduction, Chen Fan knew he was in the presence of the High Elder himself.

    He had thought that the High Elder would look like an old man in his seventies or eighties, but it turned out his assumption was wrong.

    The fair-faced middle-aged man was much older than he appeared to be on the surface. A Divine Nascent realm powerhouse¡¯s lifespan was as long as eight hundred years.

    This kind of expert could easily alter their appearance. Some might even choose to appear as infants, purely out of preference.

    While some preferred to reveal their true age, others opted for a younger facade. It was a matter of personal choice.

    ¡°Greetings, Master.¡± Wei Buyu bowed to the High Elder, surprising Chen Fan with the revtion.

    <i>Master? The High Elder is actually Wei Buyu¡¯s master!</i>

    <i>Wouldn¡¯t that mean that the High Elder is my martial grandmaster?!</i>

    Snapping back to reality, Chen Fan bowed and said, ¡°Disciple Chen Fan greets the High Elder!¡±

    ¡°Alright, be at ease.¡± The High Elder smiled faintly, looking amiable and not putting on any airs. ¡°Little fellow, I didn¡¯t call you here for anything important. I just wanted to take a look at you with my own eyes.

    ¡°You''re quite impressive, little fellow. Your talent is extraordinary, even above Duan Jingtian¡¯s. In this old man¡¯s opinion, you have a pretty good chance of surpassing Duan Jingtian in a year and a half and trampling him under your feet.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian acted out, likely sensing your growing threat. I also took the chance to injure him, but this won¡¯t dy things for long.

    ¡°He is a heavenly prodigy. You have to cultivate well and seize this time to raise your strength. You can rest assured that Duan Jingtian won¡¯t advance into the Divine Nascent realm within these eighteen months due to my attack. This is your chance.¡±

    The High Elder had an ulterior motive when he had intervened and struck Duan Jingtian.

    If he hadn¡¯t suppressed Duan Jingtian, thetter would have advanced into the Divine Nascent realm, making it impossible for Chen Fan to surpass him.

    Chen Fan nodded and cupped his fists. "I will not disappoint the High Elder''s expectations."

    1. Dragon¡¯s vein refers to a rising and falling mountain range, because its shape resembles a dragon in many ways hence in Ancient China, the study of Feng Shui likens mountain range to dragons, and is an important concept of Feng Shui. ?

 Chapter 394 â€“ Breaking Through to the Core Formation Realm

    <h4>Chapter 394 ¨C Breaking Through to the Core Formation Realm</h4>

    ck Wind Cliff was a precipice in the Spring Autumn Sect. Currently, two people stood there: the Spring Autumn Sect Leader and Duan Jingtian.

    With his hands sped behind his back, the sect leader stared into the distance, looking at the sea of clouds ahead.

    ¡°You were too reckless this time, Jingtian,¡± he said, his voice hollow and distant, as if he did not belong to this world.

    ¡°Given your talents, you can enter the Divine Nascent realm in a year and a half. At that time, you will take over my position. Then, you would assume my position. The entire sect would be under yourmand, and the world would bow to you. Who would dare to defy you then?

    ¡°However, your impulsive actions today allowed the High Elder to seize the opportunity and injure you severely. I had to discipline you and confine you to ck Wind Cliff for reflection.

    ¡°Although I managed to suppress your injuries, you now can¡¯t advance to the next realm in eighteen months. I suspect this was his strategy to stall you, possibly to aid that Chen Fan.

    ¡°Less than eighteen months remain in your three-year agreement with him. You could have killed him with a flip of your hand if you were a Divine Nascent realm expert, but now... That¡¯s hard to say. Chen Fan¡¯s talents rival, if not surpass, yours.

    ¡°In just a year and a half, he became a peak-level Yuanfu realm expert and took home the championship. After consuming the Extreme Profound Elixir, he¡¯ll advance to the Core Formation realm. His cultivation speed is way too fast.¡±

    Duan Jingtian stood beside him, simrly gazing at the tumbling sea of clouds in the distance, and said, ¡°Sect Leader, I think you¡¯re worrying too much. While I admit that his talents are indeed frightening, he could onlye this far because of a moment of my negligence.

    ¡°And so what if he enters the Core Formation realm? Very few below the Divine Nascent realm are a match for me. No matter how monstrous of a genius he is, he can¡¯t possibly reach my level in just eighteen months. So, he will meet his end in a year and a half regardless!

    ¡°As for my advancement... Yun Tu, that old coot, has indeed dyed my progress. I won''t forget this debt; he''s next on my list once I break through," Duan Jingtian dered, his eyes gleaming with unmistakable intent to kill.

    ¡°Confidence is good, but remain vignt. Spend this year cultivating diligently at ck Wind Cliff. I hope you can achieve the Divine Nascent realm soon and quash all opposition within the sect. With you at the helm, our sect will dominate Qingyang County. Your setback due to injury has merely dyed our ns,¡± said the sect leader.

    ¡°Sect Leader, isn¡¯t the Great Chu Empire¡¯s Grand Sect Conference in two years? This dy might work in our favor. Once I advance to the Divine Nascent realm, I can¡¯t participate in the Grand Sect Conference. However, with my advancement dyed, I can represent the Spring Autumn Sect and dominate the Grand Sect Conference with overwhelming strength. Isn¡¯t that even better?¡± Duan Jingtian said, smiling. His words implied that achieving the Divine Nascent realm was nothing difficult for him.

    ¡°Very well, with that perspective, I trust you''ll seed,¡± said the sect leader faintly. His form blurred and vanished with the wind, leaving no trace of his presence.

    ......

    Three days had passed since the martial artspetition ended, yet the fervor within the Spring Autumn Sect showed no signs of waning.

    Chen Fan had again be the center of attention.

    The first time the people heard of his name was a year and a half ago when word of his three-year agreement with Duan Jingtian spread. Everyone had thought he was overestimating his own capabilities and was acting boldly.

    After all, how could a mere Qi Grandmaster challenge the emblematic figure of the entire Spring Autumn Sect?

    What was it if not an insult to Duan Jingtian?

    However, Chen Fan rarely appeared in the sect since then, so the people gradually forgot about him.

    His name spread again when Chen Fan appeared as a super dark horse in the martial artspetition, setting off a storm in the Spring Autumn Sect.

    His recent confrontation with Duan Jingtian was still fresh in everyone''s minds.

    He had killed Yuan Kun, the second-inmand of Heaven¡¯s Alliance, in front of Duan Jingtian. It was simply a brazen act of defiance, bordering on suicidal.

    ¡°Chen Fan''s performance was simply mind-boggling. He took the championship and obtained the Extreme Profound Elixir. He must be trying to advance into the next realm now, right?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t he still at the ninth level? And he already has thebat strength of Core Formation realm experts?! Once he enters the Core Formation realm, wouldn¡¯t he be much, much stronger than those at the same level? It¡¯s simply unthinkable.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. We might soon witness the emergence of a new elite disciple.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m already looking forward to his battle against Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. I have to say, both of them are prodigies of the heavens. Although Chen Fan¡¯s current strength is far inferior to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s, who knows how strong he will be in eighteen months, right? He might just surprise us all again!¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you overestimating him? Progressing each level in the Core Formation realm is ten times more difficult than in the Yuanfu realm. The amount of resources needed is simply too vast. Even if he¡¯s a monstrous genius, I think he¡¯ll only reach the fourth or fifth level tops in a year.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    While the inner sect was filled with discussions, the main character of the crowd¡¯s discussions was sitting cross-legged on a mountaintop. His cultivation churned, and his aura reached far and wide.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan opened his eyes and electric arcs shed across them. He had spent three days stabilizing himself at the peak of the Yuanfu realm.

    Duan Jingtian had tried to suppress Chen Fan, but the small golden person used him to help Chen Fan, shattering his primeval vessel and forming an illusory core.

    That saved him a lot of time.

    With a swift gesture, Chen Fan produced the Extreme Profound Elixir in his palm. Its aroma permeated the air, stirring the qi within him with anticipation.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to break through!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone, and he gulped the elixir. He closed his eyes and began refining the medicinal efficacy, trying to advance to the next realm.

    The Extreme Profound Elixir¡¯s energy erupted inside him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The extremely pure medicinal energy blended with his primeval force. The friction from that produced a chain reaction.

    Primeval force exploded within every one of Chen Fan¡¯s acupuncture points, making it seem like hundreds of volcanoes had erupted simultaneously within him. The sound was extremely loud.

    mes spurted out of every one of his acupuncture points. His flesh and blood cheered in excitement, giving birth to immense strength.

    The surrounding aura churned violently, rolling the winds and clouds.

    All the disciples in the inner sect sensed the changes in heaven and earth. Everyone looked up, piercing through space and time, as if they could see Chen Fan, their minds trembling.

    Everyone knew that Chen Fan was trying to advance to the Core Formation realm!

 Chapter 395 - Golden Core Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 395 - Golden Core Tribtion</h4>

    Chen Fan was advancing to the Core Formation realm and everyone in the sect could sense it.

    The immense medicinal energy of the Extreme Profound Elixir surged through Chen Fan, entangling, rubbing, and stirring his boundless primeval force. This energy ignited fiery mes that burst from his acupuncture points.

    These mes filled the air, causing sparks and shes of electricity to dance around him.

    The powerful electric arcs resembled a dragon or a snake, swirling in the air and scorching the ground beneath Chen Fan.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Simultaneously, a vast amount of primeval stones floated around him, forming a ring. A mass of pure primeval qi burst out, pouring into him, trying to ignite his primeval force and brewing up an earth-shaking explosion.

    Had this explosion urred, anyone in Chen Fan''s position would likely have been instantly killed.

    However, Chen Fan practiced the Heaven Seizing Art¡ªan unrivaled divine technique that plundered the luck of heaven and earth to shape one''s body and refine their blood and soul to unimaginable levels.

    So, although his primeval force was burning, it did not produce a huge explosion.

    Given Chen Fan¡¯s current cultivation, triggering such an explosion was challenging. It required the primeval qi to reach an extreme point to trigger a chain reaction in his primeval force, ultimately summoning a tribtion of heaven and earth.

    Cultivation was the act of going against the heavens¡ªa life-threatening act. And that could attract catastrophic tribtions from the Heavenly Dao.

    Below the Core Formation realm, the Heavenly Dao didn¡¯t resonate with martial artists strongly. Thus, cultivating would be a smooth process without any major catastrophes.

    However, reaching the Core Formation realm marked a qualitative shift. The primeval force inside a martial artist would metamorphose into true primeval energy¡ªsomething strong enough for the Heavenly Dao to sense clearly.

    Consequently, when an Illusory Core realm expert sought to ascend to the Core Formation realm, they would encounter their first tribtion from heaven and earth.

    Sessfully oveing this trial would lead to the formation of their golden core, bing a Core Formation realm expert.

    Failure, however, would result in being consumed by the tribtion and dying.

    All the inner sect disciples looked in the direction of Chen Fan¡¯s residence. Their eyes flickered as they discussed among themselves.

    ¡°Such intense qi fluctuations. Heavens, Chen Fan''s foundation must be exceptionally robust to trigger such a significant phenomenon. It¡¯s unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? With that kind of foundation, he''ll undoubtedly be strong enough to overwhelm experts at the same cultivation level even as at the Core Formation realm.¡±

    ¡°But crossing this hurdle won''t be easy. He will have to survive the tribtion first. The stronger Chen Fan''s foundation, the more difficult his golden core tribtion will be, and the slimmer his chances of sess.¡±

    ¡°You have a point, but he consumed the Extreme Profound Elixir, and he¡¯s also Grand Elder Wei Buyu¡¯s personal disciple. He¡¯s probably given Chen Fan some treasure for passing the tribtion. I¡¯m sure this hurdle wouldn¡¯t stump him.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see. We¡¯ll know soon whether he can safely pass through his golden core tribtion.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Hmm, such powerful fluctuations... That kid has stirred up quite amotion. Those fluctuations are much stronger than ours were; his foundations must be exceptionally deep.¡±

    Several figures stood on a mountain top, looking into the distance at Chen Fan¡¯s mountain.

    These people¡¯s auras were so powerful they could strike fear in others. They were the holy disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect, experts in the Core Formation realm.

    The holy disciples discussed among themselves.

    "It all hinges on whether he can safely navigate the golden core tribtion. Once he does, he will be a top expert at the first level of the Core Formation realm. Hoho, Ding Yi, and the other holy disciples at the first level will be under pressure.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, the pressure of being surpassed by a newly promoted holy disciple will be quite something.¡±

    ¡°Let alone Ding Yi and the others, the pressure is huge even on us. I heard some things about this Chen Fan. He¡¯s a prodigy of the heavens. He came this far in a year and a half.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Wei Buyu also sensed Chen Fan''s aura during his tribtion. He shook his head in disbelief. ¡°This kid... he¡¯s already trying to advance? How reckless of him, to not even tell me about it in advance. I could have given you some treasure for passing through the tribtion...

    ¡°Well, if he survives the golden core tribtion without outside help, his strength will be even greater. Even his future will be even brighter than those who passed their tribtion by relying on treasures.¡±

    ......

    Lightning shuttled through space densely. The area had seemingly be a perilous region where no living creatures could survive.

    Due to Chen Fan¡¯s robust foundations in the Yuanfu realm and his mastery of an unparalleled divine technique, the scale of his tribtion was equal to more than ten people advancing into the Core Formation simultaneously.

    Menacing winds and clouds swirled in the skies above him.

    From the void, dense, pitch-ck clouds emerged, within which lightning dragons darted wildly, their crackling echoing ominously and sending shivers down people''s spines.

    ¡°Look, Chen Fan¡¯s golden core tribtion has appeared. The Extreme Lightning Universe Great Tribtion is unique to Core Formation realm experts. It targets the golden core condensed by the person undergoing the tribtion. It has a total of nine lightning forces. If one fails to withstand it, their golden core may shatter at best, or at worst, they could die.¡±

    ¡°Oh my god, what a terrifying tribtion aura. Those tribtion clouds likely span over a thousand meters wide."

    ¡°It¡¯s more than that. Look, you guys, his tribtion clouds are still expanding. It¡¯s too terrifying.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless people witnessed a vast expanse of pitch-ck tribtion clouds enveloping Chen Fan¡¯s mountain peak. The terrifying lightning was like a bright light piercing through the dark universe, carrying a suffocating aura and flickering non-stop.

    Chen Fan stood under the center of those tribtion clouds, targeted by the tribtion¡¯s power. He could flee to the ends of the world, but there was no escaping the tribtion unless he stopped trying to advance to the next realm. That was the only way to make the grand tribtion dissipate.

    He didn¡¯t move, and his mind waspletely immersed in the breakthrough, refining the medicinal efficacy of the Extreme Profound Elixir with all his might.

    The illusory core within his dantian spun crazily, constantly crumbling and condensing, emitting strands of golden light.

    The core formation, true to its name, involved the formation of a golden core within one''s dantian. He was nearing the culmination of this process.

    Once the entire illusory core disintegrated and reformed into a golden core, he would have sessfully advanced into the Core Formation realm. Then, he would be considered a top-tier expert in the Great Chu Empire.

    Thirty percent.

    Fifty percent.

    Seventy percent.

    ......

    Inside his dantian, the illusory core buzzed intensely, drawing various energies from his limbs and bones, channeling them into itself. The process turned it into a ¡°core nucleus.¡±

    Wisps of golden light constantly shot out from the ¡°core nucleus,¡± trying to bathe the entire dantian in a radiant golden hue.

 Chapter 396 - Horrifying Grand Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 396 - Horrifying Grand Tribtion</h4>

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    After Chen Fan''s dantian''s ''core nucleus'' condensed, a golden aura burst within him.

    This made the tribtion clouds above him churn fiercely, rapidly expanding to a width of two and a half kilometers.

    <i>C, c!</i>

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Lightning dragons frolicked within the clouds, gathering tremendous power.

    The tribtion would descend once Chen Fan¡¯s golden core wasplete to destroy it and turn him into tribtion ash.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Everyone sucked in a breath of cold air as Chen Fan¡¯s tribtion clouds expanded to be two and a half kilometers wide.

    ¡°Heavens, is this for real? How terrifying is Chen Fan¡¯s golden core tribtion?¡±

    ¡°Do you guys know the width of Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s tribtion clouds during his golden core tribtion?¡±

    ¡°I heard tribtion clouds for the Core Formation realm are usually about half a kilometer wide. And talented martial artists can see one as wide as a kilometer. It takes a genius among geniuses to reach two and a half kilometers.¡±

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s tribtion cloud three kilometers wide? It was terrifying. It wasn''t just any Extreme Lightning Universe Tribtion; it was a unique variant. Lightning divine bells descended, aiming to shatter Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s golden core. However, being the heavenly genius he is, he passed through the tribtion effortlessly, without relying on any treasures.¡±

    ¡°If you put it that way, it does seem that Chen Fan''s tribtion clouds seem less formidable than Senior Brother Duan Jingtian''s.¡±

    ¡°True. Chen Fan¡¯s talent is monstrous, but when measured against Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, it¡¯s a bitcking.¡±

    ¡°But, look! Chen Fan¡¯s tribtion cloud is still expanding. Wait... isn¡¯t that already three kilometers?!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone paused what they were doing to gaze at Chen Fan¡¯s mountaintop.

    They witnessed a terrifying tribtion; it seemed as if a lightning demon would suddenly descend and obliterate the world below.

    ¡°Heavens, Duan Jingtian¡¯s tribtion cloud was three kilometers wide, and that made him a once-in-a-century monstrous genius in the Great Chu Empire. Chen Fan¡¯s tribtion clouds have reached the same level. Is he as talented as Duan Jingtian?!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. His cloud is still expanding. It¡¯s already three and a half kilometers wide, surpassing Duan Jingtian!¡±

    ¡°Terrifying. Incredibly terrifying! If he ovees this golden core tribtion, his future in martial arts will undoubtedly be brilliant!¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, even if he seeds, he might be the shortest-lived holy disciple in our sect¡¯s history. Don¡¯t forget that he has a life-and-death match against Duan Jingtian. He¡¯ll die for sure!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too soon to talk about that. We should wait until after he sessfully passes his golden core tribtion andpletes his holy disciple mission.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The holy disciples stared wide-eyed. Looks of disbelief could be seen in their gazes, shocked to the core. They were seasoned holy disciples, having held their positions longer than Duan Jingtian

    However, Duan Jingtian was too much of a genius. His cultivation improved rapidly, quickly surpassing them to a point where they struggled to keep up.

    ......

    On the mountain peak, Chen Fan tried his best to advance to the next level.

    Eighty percent!

    Eighty-five percent!

    Ny percent!

    Ny-three percent!

    The illusory core within Chen Fan¡¯s dantian had almostpletely solidified, radiating a resplendent golden light. True primeval surged, resembling golden stars.

    As Chen Fan''s golden core nearedpletion, his tribtion clouds expanded from two and a half kilometers to finally four kilometers, still showing no signs of halting their growth.

    Just as the onlookers were absorbed in the ever-expanding tribtion clouds, another unexpected change urred.

    Thunder roared within the clouds, and numerous war gods materialized.

    Human-shaped lightning!

    In addition, various treasures with lightning attributes emerged amidst the lightning shes.

    A lightningmp ascended slowly, its brilliance causing nearby mountains to nearly crumble.

    A lightning divine bell appeared, and its toll ruptured the space. The sounds of that bell could jolt mountains into nothingness and shatter cultivators¡¯ souls.

    A lightning spear materialized from the void, slicing through the air and ready to strike at any moment.

    A lightning pagoda oscited with a powerful rumble, ready to suppress and kill Chen Fan.

    A lightning heavenly pce also appeared in the skies, seemingly inhabited by celestial warriors andmanders, ready to descend with formidable force to take down Chen Fan.

    Every cultivator striving to reach the Core Formation realm was essentially challenging thews of heaven and earth. So, thews of heaven and earth rained down heavy punishment upon them.

    This wasmon knowledge among cultivators, so many people would kill those wicked martial artists before undergoing their tribtion, umting karma to offset the intensity of their tribtion a bit and improve their chances of sess.

    Chen Fan had killed many, yet his golden core tribtion was exceptionally terrifying. His umted karma was almost insignificant in front of this grand tribtion.

    The tribtion clouds disyed a myriad of phenomena.

    Within a five-kilometer radius of the mountain peak, the air was disced, creating a vacuum.

    Lightning filled the sky; electrical phenomena were everywhere. Even a phenomenon of star-like objects falling as rain emerged, with clusters of spherical lightning crashing down like colossal meteors.

    Everyone stared wide-eyed and ck-jawed. They muttered incredulously as if their very souls were being pulled from their bodies.

    ¡°Ancient Tribtion Lamp!¡±

    ¡°Lightning Divine Bell!¡±

    ¡°God of Thunder Tribtion Spear!¡±

    ¡°Duke of Thunder Pagoda!¡±

    ¡°And that Thunder Punishment Heavenly Pce!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, is he a heavenly god or an exiled immortal banished to the mortal realm? How could so many phenomena appear? Is he even human? He is only advancing to the Core Formation realm, but he has already drawn so many terrifying tribtions. These terrifying cmities would only appear when advancing to the Divine Nascent realm or beyond!

    ¡°This is astonishing, simply astonishing. If he still advances to the Core Formation realm, it will be nothing short of a miracle!"

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s tribtion only had the Ancient Tribtion Lamp and the Lightning Divine Bell. What makes him so much more talented than Senior Brother Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°How horrifying. With a tribtion this intense, he will surely die!¡±

    The spectators were utterly shaken, feeling as though they had glimpsed paradise and lost all im to their own lives.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, everyone watched as Chen Fan''s tribtion clouds expanded rapidly to five kilometers wide.

    The entire space shook violently. The mountains below started cracking open under this terrifying pressure, as if on the brink of copsing under the weight of heaven and earth.

    ¡°Five kilometers! The tribtion clouds are now five kilometers wide! Heavens, I¡¯m afraid there has never been and never will be another person like him, not even on the entire Tianwu Continent!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyeballs nearly fell out of their sockets.

    ¡°Alright, alright, alright!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly opened his eyes. Fierce light shot out of them as he quickly got up on his feet. His robes billowed in the wind, his face brimming with confidence as he burst intoughter.

    ¡°With so many phenomena manifesting to challenge me, my journey to the Core Formation realm sure feels refreshing. I am just built different. I am a legend unmatched throughout history!¡±

    Chen Fan flew up and stood in the air, facing the baptism of the boundless lightning.

    ¡°Come on! Today, I¡¯ll advance to the Core Formation realm. Let the heavenly tribtion be even fiercer. Laws of heaven and earth, unleash your might! Let me advance with apletely unprecedented metamorphosis!¡±

 Chapter 397 - Golden Core in Abdomen, Fate in His Hands

    <h4>Chapter 397 - Golden Core in Abdomen, Fate in His Hands</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s actions triggered the tribtion clouds. They churned violently, forming a terrifying lightning vortex. It seemed as if the tribtion was about to burst out of the vortex.

    <i>C! C!</i>

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Bolts of lightning snaked down, piercing the air and striking Chen Fan. Yet, to him, it felt like mere tickles; he hardly felt a thing.

    ¡°Golden core, out!¡± Chen Fan blurted.

    Immediately, his head radiated a burst of golden light, and a golden core flew out, hovering above his head.

    This was Chen Fan¡¯s golden core!

    However, a faint silver glow lingered on it, indicating that he had yet topletely solidify it. It was about ny-nine percentplete.

    ¡°Gather for me!¡± Chen Fan said with a wave of his hand. Primeval stones piled up like a mountain around him before exploding, turning into a terrifying storm of primeval qi and quickly rushing into the golden core.

    <i>Buzz, buzz. Buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    The golden core¡¯s rotation reached its maximum speed. The buzzing sound echoed up to five kilometers away, even stirring up a fierce wind within that radius, howling wildly.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A resplendent light pir erupted from the golden core, rushing up into the sky and the terrifying tribtion clouds, dyeing the pitch-ck clouds golden.

    The qi of his core rushed into the sky!

    Chen Fan¡¯s golden core wasplete.

    ¡°It¡¯s done! He has fully formed his golden core!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, now he has to get through the golden core tribtion. It¡¯s also a baptism for the golden core. It will make his golden core even stronger by removing all impurities.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s about to start!¡±

    Everyone saw the golden core qi rushing straight into the sky. They knew that it was the sign of thepletion of the golden core.

    Chen Fan¡¯s core was no longer illusory¡ªit was a genuine golden core. That meant he had advanced into the Core Formation realm.

    If he survived the tribtion, he would live to enjoy the life of a true top expert of the Great Chu Empire. The Spring Autumn Sect would have another holy disciple.

    <i>Rumble, rumble, rumble!</i>

    The tribtion clouds¡¯ power seemed to have peaked; they churned violently. They locked onto Chen Fan¡¯s golden core; with a boom, the first cmity descended.

    A terrifying lightning dragon descended from the tribtion clouds.

    The storm of lightning was like rain, instantly falling on Chen Fan.

    The onlookers felt a shiver run down their spine, their scalps became numb, and their teeth began to chatter.

    The crowd was sure that no one could survive this without the help of a Core Formation realm expert.

    The terrifying river of lightning swallowed Chen Fan¡¯s golden core. Horrifying power tried to shatter Chen Fan¡¯s golden core.

    He wasn''t too concerned about it, though. It would be absurd for him to trigger such a massive phenomenon and then drop the ball at the first lightning tribtion.

    A portion of the lightning¡¯s power rushed into Chen Fan, trying to destroy him from the inside out.

    However, Chen Fan revolved the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to devour it and used it to strengthen his flesh.

    The golden core tribtion was not only a test for his qi cultivation, but it was also an opportunity for his physique.

    The powers of lightning were iparably berserk, standing as the world''s mightiest force and the ideal energy to refine one''s physique.

    While Core Formation realm experts¡¯ golden cores experienced the baptism of the lightning tribtion, their flesh transformed. Even if they do not practice a body cultivation technique, Core Formation realm experts¡¯ physiques would also reach the level of a Grade-1 or Grade-2 treasure.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The enormous lightning divinemp came rushing toward Chen Fan. Its glow burst forth, morphing into a towering lightning me that engulfed him instantly.

    The golden core sizzled from the heat of that mass of power as if it would melt. Meanwhile, the lightning mes entered Chen Fan and caused cracks to appear on his meridians.

    ¡°Feels good!¡±

    Far from experiencing pain, Chen Fan looked blissful, his face showing delight.

    ¡°Hit me with everything you''ve got! I crave an even greater transformation! I need strength, immense strength! Come, all of you!¡±

    Chen Fan stood unabashed, ready to face whatever came next.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The Lightning Divine Bell descended, shrouding the golden core.

    The bell chimed, and the mountain below cracked open, rumbling and clicking. Boulders the size of houses rolled down.

    Chen Fan¡¯s golden core shook violently, seemingly about to crack open.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A lightning spear descended from the heavens, targeting Chen Fan''s golden core.

    Yet, it seemed the lightning spear had struck a metal sphere. A ng rang out as dazzling sparks flew out. Soon, the lightning spear exploded with a boom.

    ¡°Come on!¡±

    Chen Fan opened his mouth and inhaled deeply, drawing in and swallowing countless lightning snakes.

    Immediately, lightning shed and thunder roared on him. Crackling sounds filled the air, his hair standing on end, and a burnt scent permeated the area.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s aura grew increasingly powerful and vigorous.

    The members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance were also watching as Chen Fan underwent his golden core tribtion. Their gazes were cold as they prayed for him, just not in the way he would expect.

    ¡°Fail! Please, don¡¯t survive the tribtion!¡±

    ¡°He must fail, he must die!¡±

    ¡°Kid, hold on! You must hold on!¡± Wei Buyu grew tense, his hands balled into fists, his palms covered in sweat.

    Chen Fan''s golden core tribtion was unprecedentedly terrifying, unlike any regr golden core tribtion. It resembled more a divine nascent tribtion or a heavenly star tribtion! [1]

    As streaks of extremely terrifying lightning bolts descended, far from shattering Chen Fan''s golden core, they made his golden core grow increasingly bright. Its aura only grew stronger with time.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As the golden core tribtion neared its conclusion, the lightning pce and the lightning pagoda descended, trying to suppress and strike Chen Fan''s golden core.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s golden core radiated endless golden light. It was simply unbreakable as it collided violently with the lightning pagoda and the lightning pce. As the collisions went on, itpleted its baptism. It grew more mellow and fuller, its powers surging.

    Chen Fan¡¯s flesh also grew increasingly tougher. Lightning runes flickered on his skin, and within his flesh and his blood cells, lightning dragon-elephants cried out.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    He suddenly roared to the skies, the sounds were like the tide. The air in the area exploded, producing several white airwaves.

    After the baptism, the golden core¡¯s light converged inward and returned to its natural state. Then, it went back to Chen Fan¡¯s abdomen.

    ¡°Swallowing the golden core, my fate is in my hands!¡± Chen Fan bellowed, his voice unrestrained. Terrifying strength rushed and flowed along his limbs and skeleton, eager to be unleashed.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    He threw out a palm strike at the tribtion clouds in the air. With a resounding boom, a gigantic hand materialized, engulfing the skies and dispersing the dissipating clouds, erasing them instantly.

    1. Did we just get the name of the realm after Divine Nascent? Heavenly Star? ?

 Chapter 398 - Extreme Metamorphosis

    <h4>Chapter 398 - Extreme Metamorphosis</h4>

    Chen Fan smashed the tribtion clouds to bits with a palm strike, making them vanishpletely.

    The gloomy skies cleared up and sunlight poured down, stinging the people¡¯s eyes.

    Heaven and earth fell silent.

    Everyone looked at the figure in the air nkly, lost for words. Memories of Chen Fan''s tribtion yed in their minds like a film.

    Every scene left their minds shaking, feeling an uncontroble urge to prostrate in worship.

    ¡°It¡¯s over...¡±

    ¡°Right, it has ended.¡±

    Gradually, the crowd snapped out of their daze, though their faces still showed astonishment.

    ¡°What a truly terrifying tribtion!

    "Chen Fan''s strength is incredible. He made such a formidable tribtion look easy. It''s astonishing."

    ¡°Today, I¡¯ve witnessed the rise of a holy disciple firsthand.¡±

    ¡°Thest time our sect produced a holy disciple was six years ago when Senior Brother Duan Jingtian ascended, right?¡±

    ¡°Who would have thought Chen Fan woulde this far? Oveing the tribtion, advancing to the Core Formation realm, and bing a holy disciple. From now on, his status in the sect will be so high that people will look up to him.¡±

    ¡°Say, will the sect cancel the life-and-death match between Chen Fan and Senior Brother Duan Jingtian in eighteen months, considering Chen Fan''s potential? It would be a great shame if such a talent died at the hands of our own.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire Spring Autumn Sect heated up at once.

    This was especially true for the disciples who had joined in recent years. For them, witnessing someone confront their golden core tribtion and the birth of a holy disciple was exhrating.

    ¡°How truly unexpected. That guy overcame such a terrifying tribtion so easily. It seems our sect will soon boast another unparalleled genius.¡±

    ¡°For real. Six years ago, after Duan Jingtian passed his tribtion, he quickly surpassed us veteran holy disciples and left us in the dust. Now, an even more monstrous genius has appeared. The pressure is unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°Alright, the pressure only drives us to excel. Let''s get back and cultivate; otherwise, we''ll truly be left behind.¡±

    The holy disciples wore expressions of resignation.

    The Spring Autumn Sect hadn¡¯t seen such a peerless monstrous genius in a century. Six years ago, it was Duan Jingtian; now, Chen Fan showed up unexpectedly. The veteran holy disciples felt an unprecedented weight on their shoulders.

    ¡°Ah, how frustrating. That damned bastard overcame the golden core tribtion. How could this be!¡±

    ¡°Damn it, why didn¡¯t the tribtion just strike him to death!¡±

    Conversely, the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance looked resentful and bitter, wishing for Chen Fan''s death to put an end to their woes.

    The alliance had suffered many losses because Chen Fan had killed many of their experts.

    Duan Jingtian had been sent off to face a wall to repent as punishment, and Yuan Kun had fallen¡ªall because of Chen Fan. The alliance had no leader now.

    They all hated Chen Fan and had asked their respective god to kill him during the tribtion.

    Now that Chen Fan had be a holy disciple, only Duan Jingtian could suppress him. No one else from the Heaven¡¯s Alliance was a match for him.

    After all, why would they act as Duan Jingtian¡¯sckey if they could enter the Core Formation realm and be a holy disciple themselves?

    Had Chen Fan not existed, Yuan Kun would have won the martial artspetition and, with the Extreme Profound Elixir''s power, he had an eighty to ny percent chance of bing a holy disciple.

    This would have resulted in the alliance having two holy disciples. Sadly, Chen Fan had set the cat among the pigeons.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan had no idea what the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance were thinking; if he did, he likely wouldn¡¯t have cared.

    Now that he had broken through to the Core Formation realm, would the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance still dare to mess with him?

    They''d likely fear for their lives!

    Hovering proudly in the air, Chen Fan remained still, seemingly in deep meditation.

    Suddenly, a flood of information streamed into his mind from the tiny golden person in his be.

    Momentster, a gleam of light appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, reflecting surprise.

    The small golden person had imparted a golden core secret art to him.

    With his advancement to the Core Formation realm, Chen Fan had felt a pang of regret, as the Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art would be obsolete. However, the small golden person refined the secret art, transforming it into a golden core secret art.

    Now, his nine illusory primeval vessels could transform into nine illusory golden cores, offering immense help to Chen Fan once more.

    ¡°Hahaha, hahaha!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, hisughter resonating through the surroundings.

    He had ovee the tribtion, entered the Core Formation realm, improved his physique by using the tribtion lightning, and pushed his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the eleventhyer.

    Moreover, the small golden person had upgraded his Nine Illusory Primeval Vessel Secret Art to the Nine Illusory Golden Core Secret Art, promising a substantial increase in hisbat prowess.

    The golden core tribtion was an extreme metamorphosis for Chen Fan, propelling him to a new height.

    Henceforth, he could rightfully be considered a genuine peak expert!

    In the Great Chu Empire, Core Formation realm experts were the strongest existences, in the absence of Divine Nascent realm experts. He was only at the first level, yet he would be considered a high and mighty existence like a god. No one would dare to mess with him.

    ¡°Core Formation... So, this is the Core Formation realm. What incredible power!¡± Chen Fan clenched his fist, feeling the strength inside him. It was so powerful it was scary.

    He felt like he could reduce a mountain to dust with a single exhale. A palm strike should be able to topple mountains, overturn seas, and cut off rivers.

    Power. Power to conquer the world rose from within him.

    ¡°Although I have only recently advanced into the Core Formation realm, given my immense strength, even someone at the second level wouldn¡¯t be a threat to me. Hahaha, just wait, Duan Jingtian. In a year and a half, I¡¯ll make you kneel under my feet and repent!¡±

    An iparably sharp light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Suddenly, a gust of wind arose as Wei Buyu arrived,nding beside him.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Wei Buyu inquired, his face also beaming with smiles. Chen Fan had easily ovee such a terrifying golden core tribtion; it went to show how deep and powerful his foundations were. His future achievements would be immeasurable.

    ¡°Very good! Very strong!¡± Chen Fan answered.

    ¡°Now that you¡¯ve broken through to the Core Formation realm, you can also be considered a true expert. In ancient times, only those who achieved Core Formation were recognized as qi cultivators," Wei Buyu remarked, grinning.

    ¡°It¡¯s indeed very powerful. My energy has metamorphosed; it''s a level beyond primeval force,¡± Chen Fan said, his eyes shimmering.

    Below the Core Formation realm, the energy in one¡¯s body was primeval force. However, at the Core Formation realm, primeval force transformed into a stronger, more overbearing power¡ªtrue primeval.

    ¡°Now that you¡¯ve broken through to the Core Formation realm, you¡¯re considered a holy disciple. I¡¯m sure the Sect Leader will summon you very soon,¡± Wei Buyu said, restraining his smile.

    ¡°The Sect Leader? Why would he sum...¡±

    Chen Fan was just about to pose a question when his expression suddenly changed.

 Chapter 399 - Summoned by Sect Leader

    <h4>Chapter 399 - Summoned by Sect Leader</h4>

    Noticing the change in Chen Fan¡¯s expression, Wei Buyu sensed something was off. He had a hunch about what had happened but still asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Chen Fanughed bitterly and said, ¡°The sect leader just sent me a voice transmission, summoning me.¡±

    ¡°So soon?!¡± Wei Buyu eximed, despite having guessed that already. He hadn¡¯t expected the summon toe so soon.

    ¡°An immediate summon?¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡± Chen Fan nodded, ¡°Master, you just said that the sect leader would summon me since I am now a Core Formation realm expert. Do you know what it is about?¡±

    Wei Buyu answered, ¡°It''s a tradition in our sect. You are eligible to be a holy disciple now, but to truly be one, you still have to clear a test. It''s an age-old rule."

    ¡°A test?¡± Chen Fan raised his eyebrow and asked, ¡°What kind of test?¡±

    ¡°The details aren''t certain," Wei Buyu exined. ¡°It could involvepleting a task or confronting a demonic path expert. Either way, the difficulty of the task will be quite high. It''s the sect''s way of determining if you''re truly fit to be a holy disciple."

    "Ah, I see." Chen Fan nodded in understanding.

    The sect leader seemed to have summoned him to give him his test of unknown nature.

    "I meant to tell you about this sooner. I didn¡¯t expect the sect leader to summon you right after your breakthrough; it¡¯s really surprising. Typically, new holy disciples are summoned about a month after their breakthrough, as that gives them enough time to stabilize their cultivation,¡± Wei Buyu added.

    Chen Fan shrugged and said, ¡°It can¡¯t be helped, then. Since the sect leader called for me, I¡¯ll go see him now, Master.¡±

    ¡°Mmm, go on. Don''t worry about formalities. Return after you''ve learned about your mission, and I''ll help you analyze it," Wei Buyu said.

    ¡°Alright.¡± Chen Fan nodded and flew deeper in, following the instructions.

    He suddenly spotted a person appear on a tall mountain.

    The person appeared to be a middle-aged schr, exuding an aura of ancient nobility. At first nce, he looked as if he was an immortal from a painting, his aura blending seamlessly with the surrounding vastness.

    ¡°Greetings, Sect Leader.¡± Chen Fan bowed respectfully.

    The Sect Leader and the High Elder were on bad terms and Chen Fan was in the High Elder¡¯s faction, but the opposite party was the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Sect Leader, after all. The entire sect was under his control; Chen Fan had to show the necessary respect.

    ¡°Come on up.¡± The sect leader waved his hand, and a clear breeze immediately lifted Chen Fan onto the mountain peak.

    From this vantage point, Chen Fan could finally get a clear look at the Sect Leader. He was strikingly handsome, with eyebrows that swept upwards toward his temples and eyes that seemed to reflect the sorrows of themon people.

    He didn¡¯t look like a ferocious cultivator. All there was to be found was a gaze that expressed the desire to nurture virtue and embrace all things.

    To Chen Fan, the Spring Autumn Sect Leader seemed like a very magnanimous figure.

    Chen Fan silently waited for the sect leader to speak.

    They stood face to face with one another, but Chen Fan had no idea what the Sect Leader was thinking. His intentions seemed as inscrutable as the heavens.

    Before him, Chen Fan¡¯s current cultivation was not worth mentioning. However, he didn¡¯t feel like he was seen through, either.

    <i>The small golden person in my be should be a mighty existence that surpasses Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. If the Sect Leader can see it, there''s nothing I can hide. Being cautious won''t help.</i> Chen Fan felt a newfound sense of ease.

    "Remarkable progress, Chen Fan," the Sect Leader began, showering Chen Fan with praise. ¡°In less than two years, you went from an outer sect disciple to a holy disciple of our sect. Moreover, your golden core tribtion was magnificent and awe-inspiring, a rarity in a thousand years. Your talents are truly exceptional.¡±

    ¡°I have heard some things about the grudge between you and Duan Jingtian. Both of you are geniuses rarely seen in a hundred, or even a thousand years. It saddens me to see such promising talents at odds. Why do you have to fight to the death? Such a conflict would be a significant loss for our sect, regardless of the oue.¡±

    ¡°Sect Master is right,¡± Chen Fan said, lowering his head.

    The Sect Leader, Feng Baiyu, looked at Chen Fan, sighed, and said, ¡°Haaa, forget it. Let¡¯s not talk about this matter. I¡¯ll think of a way to resolve the grudge between you two in due time. Do you know why I summoned you over?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°I heard every holy disciple has toplete a task to be officially promoted as a holy disciple. It¡¯s a test.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. This rule was set by our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s founding ancestors.¡± Feng Baiyu nodded and continued, ¡°I have indeed summoned you for this matter.¡±

    ¡°This disciple is willing to follow the Sect Leader¡¯s instructions,¡± Chen Fan said.

    ¡°Very well. Since you''re already aware of this, there''s no need for a lengthy exnation.¡± Feng Baiyu continued, ¡°In recent years, the world has been troubled by the chaos caused by blood demons. As people of the righteous path, it is our duty to punish the wicked and eliminate evil. Your mission as a holy disciple is to eliminate these demonic path practitioners."

    Chen Fan remained silent, attentively listening to the Sect Leader.

    Feng Baiyu said, ¡°To the west of the Great Chu Empire lies the Myriad Deaths Mountains. It was once an ancient battlefield; recently, I¡¯ve received news that some demonic path experts have gathered at Myriad Deaths Mountains. They seem to be preparing to pull off something huge that would shock the world. Your mission is to head to Myriad Deaths Mountains, eradicate these demonic path cultivators, and find out what they n to do.

    ¡°The duration of such missions is three months. Starting today, you must head to the Myriad Deaths Mountains andplete your mission within this timeframe. If you exceed the time limit or fail toplete your mission, it will be considered a failed test, and you won''t be promoted to holy disciple status. Do you understand?"

    ¡°I understand. I will do my best toplete my mission!¡± Chen Fan answered loudly.

    ¡°Good, you have spirit. As expected of a genius disciple of our Spring Autumn Sect. I look forward to your sessful return, at which point I''ll personally crown you as a holy disciple," Feng Baiyu said, smiling warmly. ¡°However, be cautious; I have received information indicating that there are Core Formation realm experts among the demonic cultivators at Myriad Deaths Mountains. Exercise utmost care while executing your mission."

    With his mission clear, Chen Fan took his leave, ready to embark on his challenging assignment.

 Chapter 400 - Exchanging Merit

    <h4>Chapter 400 - Exchanging Merit</h4>

    Chen Fan returned to find Wei Buyu as instructed. His master immediately asked, ¡°You¡¯re back, Chen Fan. What did the sect leader tell you?¡±

    ¡°Master, the sect leader has given me my holy disciple mission. I''m to go to the Myriad Deaths Mountains and eliminate the demonic cultivators plotting something there...¡±

    He then exined the details of his mission to Wei Buyu.

    Wei Buyu¡¯s expression became grave, and he said, ¡°He wants you to eradicate those demonic path cultivators and gather information? This mission is way more difficult than usual. It seems the sect leader may be sending you to your death.¡±

    ¡°Oh? What do you mean, Master?¡± Chen Fan asked, narrowing his eyes. He hadn''t expected the mission to be so dangerous.

    Wei Buyu exined, ¡°I know about the Myriad Deaths Mountains. It¡¯s an ancient battlefield where the righteous and the demonic cultivators had a huge battle. Many experts, including those in the Divine Nascent realm and even those in the Heavenly Star realm, lost their lives there.

    ¡°I have heard that many demonic cultivators have gathered at Myriad Deaths Mountains. They seem to be nning something huge, with numerous experts among them.

    ¡°The situation at Myriad Deaths Mountains isplicated. Since you advanced just recently, you can¡¯t be considered a strong Core Formation realm expert. The smallest of mistakes could cost you your life.

    ¡°The sect leader assigning this mission to you as a test may seem fair, but who knows if he has hidden agendas? This mission should have been given to an elder of the sect.¡±

    Wei Buyu was furious. Chen Fan was the best candidate from their faction to fight Duan Jingtian. If he lost his life in the Myriad Deaths Mountains, the blow to the High Elder faction would be devastating, perhaps even irreparable.

    Wei Buyu said angrily, ¡°It seems like the sect leader is using his authority to settle personal scores. The high elder injured Duan Jingtian, halting his cultivation progress and granting us time. Now, the sect leader might be plotting to send you on a dangerous mission, possibly nning to eliminate you."

    Chen Fan''s heart raced as he absorbed Wei Buyu''s words.

    ¡°Then what should I do, Master? I¡¯ve already epted this mission. If I fail toplete it, I can¡¯t be a holy disciple.¡±

    Wei Buyu thought for a while and said, ¡°Let''s go see the sect leader immediately and have him change your assignment."

    However, Chen Fan did not follow; instead, he pondered for a while. He then raised his head and said with a resolute gaze, ¡°No, Master. If I asked him to change my mission, wouldn¡¯t that make me a coward? If news of this spreads, how would the entire sect view me?

    ¡°And, if the sect leader really wants to harm me with this, I will make sure that¡¯s thest thing that happens. I want to experience firsthand the challenges of the Myriad Deaths Mountains and use them to temper myself.

    ¡°One must face challenges head-on in martial arts, with an unwavering spirit. If I backed down now, I''d be betraying my martial path. It might hinder my progress in martial arts forever!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words simply left Wei Buyu dumbfounded, rooted to the spot.

    Wei Buyu soon regained hisposure and cautioned, ¡°Chen Fan, now is not the time for bravado. Many seasoned experts have met their end in the Myriad Deaths Mountains. It''s a graveyard for martial artists.

    ¡°The corpse qi, death qi, resentment, and all kinds of evil energy in the area have birthed powerful evil spirits. As a righteous martial artist, navigating through such a ce will be treacherous, and filled with constant danger.

    ¡°Moreover, there''s a legend about a formidable demonic cultivator sealed beneath the Myriad Deaths Mountains. I think those demonic martial artists have gathered there to release or awaken this ancient menace. Even a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse could fall prey to it. Your chances of survival are slim if you venture there!" said Wei Buyu to dissuade Chen Fan.

    ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter. You can''t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs. I don¡¯t fear those devils. ¡¯m the least afraid of these devils. As a righteous martial artist, I''m aware that the demonic cultivators gathering there are plotting something significant. If they seed, it could plunge the entire Great Chu Empire into chaos. I can''t stand by and do nothing.

    ¡°The gap in strength between Duan Jingtian and me is vast. To narrow the gap as soon as possible to fight him, I need to train in the harshest environments to rapidly improve my skills.

    ¡°So, Master, no need to dissuade me any further. I¡¯m going to the Myriad Deaths Mountains no matter what!¡± Chen Fan asserted firmly.

    Thanks to Chen Fan¡¯s unwavering resolve, Wei Buyu realized that he couldn¡¯t persuade him. ¡°Alright, if you''re set on this path, I won''t argue further. After all, this is your martial arts journey. Perhaps it¡¯s this very determination that helped you increase your cultivation so fast, surpassing opponents stronger than you one by one.

    ¡°You¡¯ve umted a massive amount of contribution points, thanks to your wins in the martial artspetition. Why don¡¯t you go over to the sect¡¯s Merit Hall first to exchange your contribution points for some useful treasure? Prepare yourself well before heading to the Myriad Deaths Mountains.¡±

    His words reminded Chen Fan that he indeed had a massive amount of contribution points. Perhaps even a Core Formation realm elder would not have this many contribution points.

    This fortune could not be wasted. He needed to convert it into strength.

    Chen Fan did notck anything right now. Be it treasure, weapon, or martial arts, he had them all.

    His iron spear was a Grade-4 treasure.

    Northern Star Reaper Hand and Great Brahma Sacred Palm were both earth tier martial skills. There weren¡¯t many even in the entire Spring Autumn Sect.

    However, anything could be bought with contribution points in the Spring Autumn Sect. Chen Fan was interested to see what exactly was up for trade.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll bring you to the Merit Hall,¡± Wei Buyu said.

    The two rose into the air and flew off, soaring pastyers of buildings and mountains until they arrived at a magnificent hall.

    The grand structure bore the inscription "Merit Hall.¡±

    The entire za of the hall couldfortably amodate more than ten thousand people. Numerous disciples were present, exchanging their contribution points for treasures, elixirs, and other valuable items.

    Noticing Chen Fan¡¯s arrival, some disciples quickly cleared a path.

    Not only was Grand Elder Wei Buyu leading the way, but Chen Fan''s current status alsomanded respect.

    Everyone here knew that Chen Fan had seeded in getting through his tribtion, bing a Core Formation realm expert and a holy disciple. His status was so high that he wasparable to a grand elder of the sect.

    Even members of the alliance stepped aside upon seeing him, no longer disying the arrogance they once did.

 Chapter 401 - Merit Elder

    <h4>Chapter 401 - Merit Elder</h4>

    Chen Fan easily entered the Merit Hall.

    Deep within the hall sat several powerful elders.

    One of them was a high-level Core Formation realm expert. He suddenly opened his eyes, gleaming with intensity, and focused on Wei Buyu and Chen Fan.

    ¡°Long time no see, Wei Buyu. Are you here to make an exchange?¡±

    ¡°I brought someone here to exchange things,¡± said Wei Buyu. ¡°Merit elder, you''re likely aware. Chen Fan won the martial artspetition and has advanced to the Core Formation realm, bing a holy disciple. The Sect Leader is sending him toplete a dangerous holy disciple mission. I have brought him here to exchange his contribution points for elixirs or treasures.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, I see. I heard you earned a fortune thanks to this good disciple of yours, Wei Buyu.¡± The merit elder smiled insincerely and stood up. ¡°I''ve overseen the Merit Hall for years, always ensuring fairness. As long as you have sufficient contribution points, you can exchange them for anything valuable. So, what are you interested in? Young man, show me your token."

    Chen Fan nodded, waving his hand to send his token into the elder''s grasp.

    The merit elder examined it briefly, his expression shifting. The number of contribution points was impressive.

    Chen Fan had won every fight in the martial artspetition, so the amount of contribution points he had amassed was simply enormous.

    Wei Buyu wanted to consider things for Chen Fan¡¯s sake. So, he decided to ask for the item that best suited Chen Fan¡¯s needs.

    ¡°Do you have any treasure that can break through space? I recall that with enough contribution points, one could buy a Space Prating Divine Talisman. Chen Fan has to go to a very dangerous ce toplete his mission. If hees across danger, he can use the Space Prating Divine Talisman to break open the space and escape.¡±

    The divine talisman could be used for a quick escape, which would give Chen Fan a lifeline. Even in life-threatening situations, he would have the means to flee, which was crucial.

    ¡°What? Space Prating Divine Talisman?¡± The merit elder¡¯s eyes sparkled briefly before a sly grin crept onto his face. ¡°I''m afraid we''re fresh out of those. You''d have to wait quite a while, maybe two to three years."

    ¡°Merit elder, aren¡¯t you lying through your teeth?¡± Wei Buyu said angrily, ¡°How could there be no Space Prating Divine Talisman?¡±

    ¡°It''s the truth. Believe it or not, it''s up to you.¡± The merit elder maintained his stance, his smile turning sinister. ¡°Wei Buyu, I hope you''re not considering searching the Merit Hall, are you? That''s a grave offense. Ites with a steep punishment. Regardless of your status, you would be suppressed for a hundred years as punishment!¡±

    ¡°Fine. I''ll choose something else," Chen Fan interjected.

    He could also tell that this merit elder was purposely making things difficult for him. The elder likely belonged to the Sect Leader¡¯s faction.

    Wei Buyu suppressed his anger and said coldly, ¡°A Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman would work as well.¡±

    The merit elder calmly said, ¡°Apologies, we are out of that too. We¡¯ll have fresh stocks in three months.¡±

    ¡°How dare you!¡± Wei Buyu was thoroughly enraged. He scolded angrily, ¡°Merit elder, I think you¡¯re deliberately making things difficult for us. Don¡¯t bother with these pathetic excuses. Let me put it this way. I don¡¯t care whether you have those talismans or not; I want them, so you better bring them out.

    ¡°You can throw every rule in the rulebook at me, but what about the high elder? Does he also not have the power to search the Merit Hall?! If he finds them, will the Sect Leader save your hide!¡±

    The merit elder¡¯s expression changed. His face twitched, he smiled, and said, ¡°Oh, I just remembered. There is indeed a Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman in the Merit Hall. This bad head of mine; I almost forgot.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Wei Buyu dismissed the merit elder''s antics. ¡°Given all the contribution points he has, he should still have a lot left after getting a Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman. What other treasures do you need, Chen Fan?¡±

    The merit elder hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid we¡¯re out of some peak-grade pills. We are also running low on Grade-4 and Grade-5 treasures.¡±

    Chen Fan wasn''t particrly interested in those pills or treasures. He prioritized strength above all else. ¡°Are there any items for increasing one¡¯s life origin?¡±

    ¡°That, we do have.¡± The merit elder lit up with joy. A cunning smile briefly crossed his eyes as he said, ¡°The best item for increasing one¡¯s life origin is the Fountain of Life, but we¡¯re out of that as well. I have a Divine Stone of Life obtained from an ancient abandoned mine here. You can use your remaining contribution points to exchange for it.¡±

    ¡°Ridiculous!¡± Wei Buyu immediately flew into a rage again and said, ¡°If it were a genuine Divine Stone of Life, I wouldn''t have objected. But that stone you''re holding is tainted with evil qi. Even those in the Core Formation realm can¡¯t refine it. What use do we have for this thing? It¡¯ll only corrupt his mind.¡±

    "Such ignorance!" The merit elder retorted defiantly. ¡°Even the energy from the Fountain of Life is nothingpared to what¡¯s in this stone. Though challenging to harness, it''s a supreme treasure. Take it or leave it.¡±

    ¡°You!¡± Wei Buyu was furious, his anger rising to the skies.

    ¡°Alright, the Divine Stone of Life it is, then. I¡¯ll exchange all of my remaining contribution points for it,¡± Chen Fan suddenly said.

    Wei Buyu¡¯splexion immediately changed, as he grew anxious. ¡°Chen Fan, why would you do that?! It is a useless stone contaminated with some unknown evil qi. Even high-level Core Formation realm experts can¡¯t refine it and would be harmed by it instead. It''s more a curse than a blessing."

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Master. I have a n,¡± said Chen Fan with a smile.

    Chen Fan knew that an uncontaminated Divine Stone of Life would be invaluable, beyond his reach even with all his contribution points. The contamination was the only reason the merit elder was even considering exchanging it.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Wei Buyu, since it¡¯s what your disciple wants, why are you trying to stop him!¡± said the elder, seemingly afraid of Chen Fan going back on his words. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve already deducted all of your contribution points. I¡¯ll hand the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman and the Divine Stone of Life to you in a moment.

    ¡°I have to say, you got it good this time. A Divine Stone of Life contains an iparably massive amount of energy. Even Divine Nascent realm powerhouses yearn for it. It¡¯s a rare treasure even if it¡¯s contaminated by evil qi. You''ve truly made a remarkable deal."

    The merit elder appeared eager to conclude the transaction and tossed Chen Fan¡¯s token. Immediately, a light shed from a gigantic door behind him, swallowing the token.

    Soon, thick evil qi came out from the depths of the gigantic door.

 Chapter 402 - Divine Stone of Life

    <h4>Chapter 402 - Divine Stone of Life</h4>

    Dark, evil qi seeped out from behind the door, tainting the surrounding air.

    Chen Fan watched as the merit elder carefully picked up a stone roughly the size of an adult''s fist, covered with densely packed talismans that sealed it shut.

    These talismans held powerful, righteous qi. It was clear that a high-level Core Formation expert had used them to suppress the evil qi within.

    The evil qi was truly terrifying. Although the talismans were suppressing it, some of it still seeped out. It was smokey and pitch-ck, contaminating the air. A mere whiff could plunge one''s mind into a nightmarish abyss, turning them into a ve to its influence.

    The stone was the Divine Stone of Life!

    Deep within it, Chen Fan noticed what seemed like writhing flesh and blood, as if it wasn¡¯t a stone, but the flesh and blood of a fiendish devil from the depths of Avici Hell.

    Aside from the intense evil qi, he could also sense the vigorous vitality aura in the stone.

    This vitality aura was refreshing and could help elevate one''s existence to a higher state.

    However, this vitality was tainted by the evil energy and couldn''t be harnessed safely. Absorbing it would corrupt the practitioner, making them a demonic being and a ve to the mass of flesh and blood within the divine stone.

    ¡°This is the Divine Stone of Life. How about it, I didn¡¯t lie to you, did I? The vitality within it surpasses even that of the Fountain of Life. You''ve made a great deal today.¡± The merit elder revealed an iparably sinister smile and said, ¡°However, be cautious. While the stone''s evil qi is sealed, the seal will be weaker over time. Mishandle it, and you could be a demon. If that happens, don¡¯t me us for killing you. Haha, hahaha...¡±

    As hisughter faded, the elder tossed the Divine Stone of Life and the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman at Chen Fan.

    Without wasting any time, Chen Fan stored the items away. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Master.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Merit Elder, I¡¯ll remember this!¡± Wei Buyu retorted, his anger still evident.

    ¡°Thinking of causing trouble, Wei Buyu? I suggest you leave now. I''ve given you what you wanted. If you stir up trouble, not even the High Elder can save you," warned the Merit Elder coldly.

    ¡°Master, let¡¯s go,¡± Chen Fan said again.

    ¡°Fine,¡± Wei Buyu responded, reigning in his anger at Chen Fan''sposed demeanor.

    Watching them leave, the Merit Elder smiled coldly. ¡°All bark and no bite. They are simply delusional if they think they can go against Duan Jingtian. Once he reaches the Divine Nascent realm, the entire sect will be under his control. You wouldn¡¯t dare to be arrogant then, Wei Buyu! You will die then!¡±

    ......

    On their way back, Wei Buyu shook his head and said, ¡°Chen Fan, you shouldn¡¯t have spent all those contribution points on this stone. You can¡¯t even refine it!

    ¡°The Divine Stone of Life is undoubtedly a rare, wondrous stone; due to the demonic fetus inside it, you simply can¡¯t use it. The seal even needs frequent reinforcement from several Core Formation experts; otherwise, the evil force within would wreak irreparable havoc.

    ¡°That old coot, Merit Elder, has passed a ticking time bomb to you. He has truly struck two birds with one stone. He got rid of a potential threat and has likely won favor with Duan Jingtian. You were too impulsive.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°You¡¯re worrying too much, Master. I''m well aware of the Merit Elder''s intentions. He wants to harm me with the contaminated Divine Stone of Life, but he has no idea that it is not a problem for me. I actually want to thank him for giving me such a treasure. With this, I can raise my cultivation quickly, and I¡¯ll be much more confident with my holy disciple mission!¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s eyes flickered, and he said, ¡°Oh? It seems you have a method to refine this?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, I do. I can''t wait to see the Merit Elder''s reaction when he finds out. He''ll be in for quite a shock!"

    Wei Buyu didn¡¯t ask more questions, suspecting that Chen Fan''s rapid rise might be tied to his ability to handle such challenges. ¡°If you¡¯re confident, then you''ve truly struck a great deal."

    ¡°That¡¯s for sure. Merit Elder¡¯s trickery is useless, but I surely remember him. Wait till I defeat Duan Jingtian. I¡¯ll look for him to settle the score then,¡± Chen Fan said, his tone cold.

    Had Chen Fan not mastered an unparalleled divine technique¡ªcultivating the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡ªpossessing the Divine Stone of Life would have indeed been dangerous. The evil qi within would have very likely consumed him.

    The merit elder was trying to harm him. Although his scheme had failed, he did have the heart to harm Chen Fan, making him an enemy. There was no way Chen Fan would let him go so easily.

    ¡°Be vignt," Wei Buyu cautioned. "The demonic fetus within the Divine Stone of Life is unique, even possessing consciousness. I suspect that during the ancient war between gods and demons, the blood of a demonic god fell on the stone. As time passed, the blood contaminated the stone and formed a demonic fetus. It¡¯s not to be underestimated.¡±

    Chen Fan rolled his eyes about, pondering, and immediately came to a decision. ¡°Rest assured, Master. I won¡¯t drop my guard. I n to find a ce immediately to refine it and improve my cultivation. I¡¯ll make sufficient preparations before heading to the Myriad Deaths Mountains.¡±

    The demonic path cultivators had gathered at Myriad Deaths Mountains and were cooking up something huge, so the area was no different from a dragon¡¯sir. A single misstep could cost Chen Fan his life. He wasn''t so reckless as to act without caution.

    Therefore, he nned to raise his cultivation a little more first, aiming to at least form an illusory core, doubling hisbat prowess. With that, even someone at the third-level wouldn¡¯t be much of a threat to him.

    Moreover, he now also had a Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman. He could escape if he encountered someone at the fourth or fifth level.

    Although the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman couldn¡¯t let him slip into the void to escape like the Space Prating Divine Talisman, it was also extremely fast.

    The talisman enveloped the user and transported them five thousand kilometers away in a sh. It was a very powerful lifesaving method.

    "Oh? You''re nning to refine it immediately?" Wei Buyu''s eyes sparkled with curiosity.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯ll do it in this valley. I¡¯ll have to request Master to set up some formations,¡± Chen Fan said with a vicious gaze.

    Noticing that Chen Fan was brimming with confidence, Wei Buyu nodded and said, ¡°Alright.¡±

    Wei Buyu set up a formation per thendscape¡¯s Feng Shui.

 Chapter 403 - Refining Demonic Fetus

    <h4>Chapter 403 - Refining Demonic Fetus</h4>

    Wei Buyu was an eighth-level Core Formation realm expert and a master at setting up formations. He knew how to revolve his cultivation to arouse the spiritualism of heaven and earth, mountains and rivers, and trigger the true mes of the sun, the moon, and the stars. He could even manipte the maic force of the earth.

    Chen Fan refining the Divine Stone of Life was no small matter. It was a tainted relic infused with the blood of an ancient demonic god. Unsealing it would unleash its evil qi, casting the sky in darkness and sending the entire Spring Autumn Sect into chaos.

    ¡°Be careful, Chen Fan. The demonic essence within is no trivial matter," Wei Buyu cautioned again after setting up the formation.

    ¡°I understand.¡± Chen Fan nodded. Then, he sat above the eye of the formation, holding onto the sealed Divine Stone of Life. Wei Buyu couldn''t help but shiver at the sight.

    Even cultivators with deep and robust cultivation would find their hair standing on end when looking at the contaminated Divine Stone of Light, let alone holding it.

    For those below the Core Formation realm, merely seeing the stone could induce nausea, vomiting, and even fainting.

    ¡°Heaven refining mes, appear!¡±

    Suddenly, a stern light appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, and a white-golden me rose from his palm.

    The mass of flesh and blood in the Divine Stone of Light squirmed violently as if it felt grave danger.

    The heaven-refining mes of the Heaven Seizing Furnace could refine all things. As its name suggested, it could even refine the heavens themselves.

    Although Chen Fan couldn¡¯t wield mes of such level currently, the demonic fetus in the stone could sense the heaven-refining aura; therefore, it was instinctively terrified.

    Outside the formation, Wei Buyu was on standby.

    As Wei Buyu watched Chen Fan, he saw the heaven-refining mes; he felt a tightening in his chest. <i>It seems this disciple of mine hase across some incredible opportunity. What kind of mes is that? It doesn''t strike me as overwhelmingly powerful, but it does evoke a sense of awe and apprehension.</i>

    With the appearance of the heaven-refining mes, the talisman seal on the Divine Stone of Life shattered instantly. The immense demonic qi threatened to erupt, covering the skies and the sun and destroying the mortal world.

    However, Chen Fan was not about to let that happen.

    Gripping the Divine Stone of Life, he activated the Heaven Seizing Art. Above his head, a massive Heaven Seizing Furnace materialized, its white-golden mes zing intensely, warping space as if challenging the very fabric of heaven and earth.

    With Chen Fan¡¯s recent advancement, his Heaven Seizing Art had also advanced to a higher level. The Heaven Seizing Furnace had also be stronger, so its mes could burn a ninth-level Yuanfu realm expert to ash and turn them into the purest of primeval qi.

    ¡°What a wondrous cultivation technique!¡± Wei Buyu narrowed his eyes, speechless.

    When one practiced their cultivation technique to a high level, executing them often produces various awe-inspiring phenomena, exuding a majestic aura and amplifying their presence.

    However, when Chen Fan executed his cultivation technique, an actual furnace materialized, exuding formidable power. The furnace was incredibly lifelike¡ªthe oue had been simply unthinkable.

    ¡°This must be a heaven tier cultivation technique. If news of this spreads, the entire Great Chu Empire will descend into chaos and bloodshed. He truly trusts me.¡± Wei Buyu smiled helplessly. Channeling his cultivation, he immediately distorted the space in the area, ensuring that no one could see them and spread the word.

    Wei Buyu harbored no greed for Chen Fan''s cultivation technique. He himself had encountered great opportunities in the past. Although his cultivation technique did not reach the heaven tier, it was also at the middle to upper-earth tier. It would be considered a great cultivation technique across the entire Great Chu Empire, or even the entire Hong Domain.

    ¡°Open the seal. Let me see how vicious this demonic fetus is, to require so many Core Formation realm experts to seal it. Let''s find out who''s stronger: my Heaven Seizing Furnace or you!" Chen Fan dered, hurling the Divine Stone of Life into the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    Suddenly, the mes in the depths of the Heaven Seizing Furnace became fiercer. The moment the demonic qi erupted from the Divine Stone of Life, it met its doom.

    It let out mournful, hissing sounds, as if alive and suffering under the Heaven Seizing Furnace''s refinement. It carried a peculiar energy that wanted to m into Chen Fan¡¯s mind and paralyze him.

    However, Chen Fan''s mind and will were not easily subdued.

    Moreover, the small golden person was guarding Chen Fan in his be.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Consecutive explosions rang out. The seals on the stone broke one by one. Towering demonic energy surged from the divine stone, threatening to corrupt the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    ording to Wei Buyu, this divine stone had been contaminated by the blood of a demonic god from the ancient era.

    A demonic god was a deity. A drop of its blood could crush the ages, and reverse time and space. The god could be reborn from that single drop. Even though countless years had passed, it still possessed unimaginable powers.

    <i>Gwa, gwa, gwa...</i>

    The divine stone emitted sharp, mournful cries as it soared into the sky above the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    As it cried out, the demonic fetus started squirming. The fetus began to take a human shape. Features like eyes, ears, a mouth, and a nose gradually emerged, all while the entity seemed to be in agonizing pain.

    Sensing imminent danger, the demonic fetus began absorbing the energy from the Divine Stone of Life in an attempt to counteract the Heaven Seizing Furnace''s refinement.

    Chen Fan, however, had no intention of letting it develop unchecked. If he allowed the demonic fetus to absorb all the energy, the divine stone would be just a stone.

    The remnant will within the demonic fetus seemed to have awakened. The will of a transcendent demonic god descended, forcing one to submit to it.

    ¡°My believers will find boundless joy, while the rest will face endless suffering...¡±

    ¡°The furnace can refine even a true god, so what can a mere fetus do?!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, pushing more power into the Heaven Seizing Furnace to refine the demonic fetus. He also tried to cut off the connection between the demonic fetus and the Divine Stone of Life.

    "The retribution of the death god awaits those who doubt it!"

    Enraged by Chen Fan''s words, the will of the demonic fetus surged forward like a tidal wave, attempting to overwhelm Chen Fan''s consciousness.

    Chen Fan''s willpower was simply as minuscule as a speck of dust under this will. It was like a small boat in the vast ocean, about to be swallowed by the fierce winds and enormous waves.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Immediately, Chen Fan felt as if lightning had struck his mind. Boundless pain coursed through him, and he felt like his soul was being ripped out of him.

 Chapter 404 - Will of the Evil God

    <h4>Chapter 404 - Will of the Evil God</h4>

    The powerful will of the evil god rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s mind, wanting to rip Chen Fan¡¯s soul apart and take its ce.

    ¡°Submit, submit, lowly ant, submit to me. I can grant you eternal life, immortality, and invincibility..."

    Seductive voices echoed, challenging Chen Fan''s resolve.

    ¡°Submit?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s mind remained firm and unshakeable. He said viciously, ¡°Why don¡¯t you try that?!¡±

    ¡°Lowly ant, daring to resist the divine radiance of a god. How rebellious...¡± said the evil god, as it attacked Chen Fan¡¯s will nonstop.

    The pain stemming from his soul grew increasingly severe, making Chen Fan scream out in pain.

    "This is bad. Chen Fan''s will is under attack by the evil god''s residual will..."

    Wei Buyu''s expression darkened and he decided to intervene, but Chen Fan suddenly said, ¡°No need, Master!¡±

    Wei Buyu halted, his eyes filled with uncertainty; after a moment''s hesitation, he chose to trust Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s will frantically resisted the evil god¡¯s remnant will. The pain made his willpower and soul stronger.

    ¡°Lowly ant, my divine radiance illuminates the world. Embrace my light, believe in me, and offer your soul, and you shall gain eternal life.¡± The evil god¡¯s demoralizing voice kept ringing out.

    ¡°Go away, go away, go away!¡±

    Chen Fan gritted his teeth, relentlessly pushing back against the evil will with his willpower.

    ¡°You¡¯ve angered me, lowly ant. You shall receive divine punishment. You¡¯remitting sphemy, against a god, you know that?¡±

    The remnant evil will grew increasingly frustrated and agitated, unable to ovee Chen Fan''s resilient will despite its relentless onught. Now, it only roared ferociously.

    ¡°Given this defiance, lowly ant, I shall punish you ruthlessly. You have earned my ire and deserve a thousand deaths. Die!¡±

    Suddenly, an indescribably terrifying willpower struck.

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind instantly wentpletely nk, as if his soul had shattered, leaving him in a vegetative state.

    Suddenly, the evil god¡¯s remnant will let out miserable screams in Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Ah, what is this! Damn it! This is... impossible! Why do you possess this! How can this be, my residual will, no..."

    The small golden person within Chen Fan¡¯s be had taken action once more. Golden light beams radiated from the small golden figure, melting everything.

    The evil god¡¯s will failed to resist the golden light and was immediately purified. The small golden person then absorbed that purified mass.

    Chen Fan returned to his senses. His expression changed, and he wrestled the small golden figure for the energy of the evil god''s will to strengthen his soul.

    Miserable screams of the evil god¡¯s will rang out as it was soon annihted. The small golden person absorbed ny percent of the energy, while the rest became nourishment for Chen Fan¡¯s soul to grow stronger.

    <i>Good! As I expected!</i> Chen Fan eximed in his heart.

    He had dared to refine the Divine Stone of Life so fearlessly because he was relying on the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s powers and the small golden person.

    <i>He must have been a terrifying deity in his lifetime. Even the evil god¡¯s will seemed terrified of it and ended up getting refined away so easily.</i>

    Chen Fan also felt somewhat apprehensive inside.

    Could he resist it if the small golden person nned on possessing him?

    With the evil god¡¯s remnant will gone, the most dangerous crisis was resolved finally.

    That mass of flesh and blood was no longer squirming, lifeless. Chen Fan refined it with the Heaven Seizing Furnace, and it immediately transformed into ck smoke and ash, leaving nothing behind.

    Witnessing the demonic qi dissipate and vanish, Wei Buyu''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    ¡°This is... he¡¯s seeded?¡±

    Chen Fan had faced a huge crisis, on the brink of being possessed by the residual will of the evil god. Yet, the demonic qi suddenly vanished.

    Chen Fan was unaware of the shock filling Wei Buyu¡¯s heart.

    Free from the demonic fetus, the Divine Stone of Life immediately regained its original radiance.

    An intense vitality aura erupted from it, making Chen Fan¡¯s entire being resonate with tion, letting out joyful sounds.

    Although the demonic fetus absorbed much of the stone¡¯s energy, there was still a lot of it left, and it was still extremely valuable¡ªsimply priceless.

    ¡°Very well, I should try absorbing the divine stone¡¯s energy!¡±

    Chen Fan began refining the Divine Stone of Life; immediately, a deluge of vitality energy came from the stone, transforming into the purest energy.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan''s aura surged instantaneously, rolling and billowing like waves.

    An extremely powerful vitality aura erupted from him, making Wei Buyu¡¯s expression light up. The vitality energy permeated the surroundings, prompting Wei Buyu to swiftly adjust his cultivation to absorb it, progressing his cultivation level.

    Half a month passed by very quickly, as Chen Fan diligently refined the energy of the Divine Stone of Life.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a thunderous roar echoed from Chen Fan. His aura soared, stirring the winds and clouds, releasing an overwhelming pressure.

    Chen Fan was still at the first level of the Core Formation realm, but he was now at the peak of the first level. With such strength, he didn¡¯t have to fear even experts at the third level; moreover, he could defeat experts at the second level.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, good, good!¡± Chen Fan stood up andughed out loud, his voice reverberating.

    He withdrew his cultivation, so his aura also quickly receded.

    It had only been fifteen days since he entered the Core Formation realm, but his cultivation had already taken such a huge leap forward. If he had been eager to advance to the second level, he could have easily broken through in another week or so.

    ¡°Oh boy, you really seeded in refining it.¡±

    Wei Buyu was also beaming with joy. Over the past half a month, he had benefited from Chen Fan and his cultivation had loosened up, putting him in high spirits. (Note: loosen as in bing closer to breaking through, maybe he was in a bottleneck.)

    ¡°Haha, I just got lucky,¡± Chen Fan said, smiling.

    Wei Buyu took out two banners and said, ¡°Thanks to you, I made some bets during the recent martial artspetition and won some treasures. These are the Wind and Cloud Banners; it¡¯s a formidable set of defensive treasures. I want you to have them for added protection on your journey to the Myriad Deaths Mountains.¡±

    Chen Fan graciously epted the Wind and Cloud Banners. ¡°Thank you very much, Master.¡±

    ¡°Mmm, spend some time refining the Wind and Cloud Banners, then make your preparations to go to Myriad Deaths Mountains. You only have three months for the test. While time is of the essence, remember not to overexert yourself. If it bes too challenging, retreat immediately. Your safety is paramount, understood?¡±

    ¡°I will heed your advice, Master.¡± Chen Fan nodded heavily.

 Chapter 405 - Myriad Deaths Mountains

    Chapter 405 - Myriad Deaths Mountains

    Time once again raced by, with another half-month slipping away.

    Chen Fan spent the time following Wei Buyu¡¯s advice and refined the Wind and Cloud Banners. His control over them felt as natural as an extension of his arm or a fish in water.

    The Wind and Cloud Banners were a Grade-5 treasure. Fengyunzi had lost them to Wei Buyu in a bet, which had stung deeply as Grade-5 treasures were rare even for esteemed elders like him.

    Chen Fan had also sessfully cultivated his first illusory primeval vessel into an illusory golden core ording to the Nine Illusory Golden Core Secret Art, doubling hisbat strength.

    ¡°Very well, now that I have the Wind and Cloud Banners, the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman, and my improved cultivation, I won¡¯t have to fear even a third-level Core Formation realm expert. I feel quite confident now.¡±

    A glint of determination shed in Chen Fan''s eyes.

    When he had first reached the Core Formation realm, the idea of undertaking this mission filled him with uncertainty. However, he now had a solid twenty to thirty percent chance of sess.

    ¡°The energy within the Divine Stone of Life is immense; while I''ve refined a considerable amount, it''s just a drop in the bucket. It can take me to the third or the fourth level.

    ¡°I only have two months left toplete the mission. I should get going to the Myriad Deaths Mountains now.¡±

    Chen Fan emerged from his cultivation mountain and went to find Wei Buyu, informing him that he was going to the Myriad Deaths Mountains.

    After a round of reminders from Wei Buyu, Chen Fan took to the skies and entered the clouds, disappearing without a trace.

    Leaving the Spring Autumn Sect behind, Chen Fan soared eastward, effortlessly navigating the skies like a fish in water.

    Core Formation realm cultivators stood as elite experts in the vast Great Chu Empire. It was rare to find even one among a hundred thousand people.

    With his breakthrough in cultivation, his speed has also greatly increased.

    He seemed to traverse vast distances in the blink of an eye; it seemed like near-instantaneous teleportation. The Wings of Rain Dragon cut across space, as fast as lightning, streaking through the sky like a ghost.

    I wonder what kind of experts from the demonic path have gathered at the Myriad Deaths Mountains?

    The mission from the Sect Leader was very dangerous. As Wei Buyu had suggested, it could very well be a suicide mission. He couldn¡¯t afford to get careless at all.

    Even though he had made sufficient preparations, the risk of an oversight due to miscalction or distraction lingered, leading to a lifetime of regret.

    Yet, he had no choice. Standing against Duan Jingtian had inevitably entangled him in the whirlpool of the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s internal management.

    Had he not, he might have met his end long ago, never having survived to this day.

    While the mission carried great danger, it also presented a significant opportunity. The Myriad Deaths Mountains served as an ancient battleground where countless powerhouses had met their end, earning it the title of a graveyard of powerhouses.

    The unique environment of the Myriad Deaths Mountains had likely given rise to numerous treasures over time.

    Even if treasures weren''t abundant, defeating and refining the evil spirits there could greatly enhance his cultivation speed.

    Currently, the main gap between him and Duan Jingtian was their cultivation level.

    This gap needed to bepensated for with time, but he didn¡¯t have much of it, less than eighteen months. He needed miraculous encounters to boost his cultivation rapidly if he hoped to stand a chance against Duan Jingtian. Otherwise, he would only get himself killed instantly when the time limit was up.

    ¡°Time is tight¡­¡±

    Although Chen Fan was fast, moving five hundred kilometers in a sh, traveling westward toward the Myriad Deaths Mountains still consumed a lot of time.

    Three dayster, Chen Fan was finally in the western region.

    ¡°The Myriad Deaths Mountains should be over there.¡±

    Chen Fan looked around in the air. The map of the Great Chu Empire surfaced in his mind. Comparing his location with the map, he found the location of the Myriad Deaths Mountains, quickly determined the direction, and flew off.

    About half a dayter, Chen Fan was close to the Myriad Deaths Mountains.

    A dpidated stretch of mountain range entered his vision, with some peaks shattered as if struck down by a mighty palm.

    Some mountains had enormous palm prints. It seemed like some powerhouse had thrown a palm strike there, leaving their mark on it for eternity.

    Some mountains had been moved from their original positions by an immense force, appearing in entirely different locations¡ªa feat reminiscent of godly or demonic powers, leaving onlookers in awe.

    Overall, the Myriad Deaths Mountains bore the scars of extensive damage, with remnants of a colossal ancient battle evident everywhere. The scale of that ancient conflict must have been terrifying.

    The Myriad Deaths Mountains, despite being a minor ancient battlefield, looked grandly devastating. One can only imagine the terrifying spectacle when the powerhouses of the Nebulous Divine Pce and the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect fought.

    Since this ce was an ancient battlefield, many experts and powerhouses had died here. Their blood covered thends, and the remnants of their energies entangled and corroded each other, causing the force field of this area to change.

    All kinds of evil qi, like vengeful qi, death qi, corpse qi, and others shrouded the mountaintops and valleys. The environment here wasn¡¯t the slightest bit better than the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range; it could even be said to be worse.

    Moreover, Chen Fan could sense demonic qi emanating from the mountain caves, indicating the presence of powerful evil spirits within the depths of the range.

    ¡°Master said that it¡¯s very likely that a great demonic path powerhouse from ancient times is being suppressed here. I wonder if that¡¯s true or not.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, looking at Myriad Deaths Mountains.

    Now that his mental strength had risen greatly, his spiritual sense had also be even stronger. He detected numerous formidable evil spirits lurking deep within the mountain crevices, preying on unsuspecting victims.

    Some evil spirits¡¯ auras were even in the Core Formation realm!

    Contaminated by the evil environment, these evil spirits were very violent, vicious, and fearless.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Chen Fan did not act rashly.

    Demonic cultivators were plotting something significant in this area. If he charged in recklessly, he wouldn¡¯t even have to worry about the demonic path cultivators, as the evil spirits and demon beasts would attack him first.

    ¡°I wonder where those demonic path cultivators are hiding? The altered force field and treacherous environment make it challenging for me to pinpoint them. My senses have gotten stronger, but it feels like a veil is covering this area. If they do not take the initiative to expose their auras, it won¡¯t be easy for me to find them.¡±

    A gloomy light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He took out the Wind and Cloud Banners and activated them by revolving his cultivation.

    ¡°Wind and Cloud Banners, appear!¡±

    Immediately, the two banners whirred and a mass of clouds appeared, enveloping Chen Fan tightly. Even if Core Formation realm experts were to look over it, they would only think it was nothing more than a mass of clouds.

    Not only did the Wind and Cloud Banners provide formidable defense, but they also possessed the ability to conceal their user effectively¡ªa valuable asset in such a dangerous environment.

 Chapter 406 - Gathering of Demons

    <h4>Chapter 406 - Gathering of Demons</h4>

    Chen Fan was hidden inside the clouds and mist as he drifted toward the Myriad Deaths Mountains.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The Myriad Deaths Mountains stretched far and wide. Chen Fan carefully scanned the area.

    Deeper within the mountain range, the terrain appeared even more damaged.

    Aside from the pervasive demonic qi, asional glimmers of treasures could be seen deep within the mountain caves.

    A huge mass of spiritual qi rose to the skies. It did not enter into the clouds, as it was merely a phenomenon produced by the convergence of the essence of the sun and the moon.

    Despite being shrouded in clouds, Chen Fan''s vision remained clear.

    Peering below, he could discern thendscape of the mountain range hidden beneath the dark clouds with his sharp sight.

    The Sect Leader had tasked Chen Fan with a challenging mission: to locate the gathering ce of the demonic path cultivators within the Myriad Deaths Mountains, find out why they had gathered there, and kill them.

    Great demons lurked deep within the depths of the Myriad Deaths Mountain Range.

    Anyone cultivating an orthodox cultivation technique would be like a brightmp entering pitch darkness here. They would immediately draw attention and attacks from numerous experts, leading to variousplications.

    Fortunately, the Wind and Cloud Banners were wondrous. Chen Fan realized why even a great expert like Fengyunzi valued it so highly. Wrapped in these banners, even a strand of his aura didn¡¯t leak out, ensuring he remained unnoticed by the powerful demons and evil spirits below.

    Soon, Chen Fan arrived at an area nketed by thick fog. Despite his incredibly sharp eyesight, he was unable to see through it.

    However, he could faintly see that ayer of bones covered the ground below.

    <i>So many bones? Is this ce the center of the battlefield where those ancient figures died, and with time, turned into a burial site?</i>

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, surveying the terrain. His expression immediately became serious.

    <i>This terrain... Dragon coiling above, tiger entrenching below, Vermillion Bird to the left, ck Tortoise to the right, and Soaring Snake in the middle; the five elements areplete. However, it looks like someone with immense power reshaped the mountains to form this.</i> [1]

    <i>Such a terrain... it seems designed either to birth a supreme demon or to suppress a great evil. This is a highly ominous ce, filled with great dangers. So, it can¡¯t be for the birth part. Is Master right? Is an ancient demonic path powerhouse being suppressed here?</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart tightened.

    If this was true, then this mission would be troublesome.

    <i>Thankfully, the Sect Leader only asked me to eradicate the demonic path cultivators here and find out why they have gathered here. </i>

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, his mind racing. If he had been sent to exterminate the ancient demonic powerhouse trapped here, it would have undoubtedly been a death sentence.

    <i>There¡¯s no need to worry too much. I still don¡¯t know for certain if there really is an ancient demonic path powerhouse here. Still, I have to be incredibly careful and capture a demonic path cultivator to interrogate.</i>

    With his decision made, Chen Fan activated the Wind and Cloud Banners, descending stealthily.

    Suddenly, he noticed that ahead of him, waves of bloody aura were rushing toward the sky; it looked spectacr.

    The air was thick with an intense bloody qi emanating from a bloodke situated at the bottom of a mining pit.

    This bloodke spanned over two kilometers in radius. The churning sea of blood was vivid red, but the surface of this bloodke was shrouded in pitch-ck.

    <i>This is a blood pit. Heavens, how many people died back then to form such a huge blood pit? This blood pit still hasn¡¯t disappeared even after so many years!</i>

    Chen Fan was incredibly shocked.

    <i>Myriad Deaths Mountains... It truly lives up to its name...</i>

    His eyes flickered. Suddenly, the sound of rushing wind noises rang out in the distance.

    Chen Fan went into hiding again. Soon, several figures broke through the dense fog, flying over, their cultivation fluctuations formidable.

    The person at the lead was a Core Formation realm expert and much stronger than Chen Fan.

    <i>Blood demons! </i>Chen Fan immediately identified the lead figure and hispanions as blood demons.

    The lead blood demon sported wings crafted from fresh blood. With a mere p, he unleashed swirling blood-red tornadoes, showcasing his formidable strength.

    The lead blood demon suddenly shouted, ¡°Yin Yang Schr, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, I¡¯m already here. Quickly show yourselves!¡±

    His voice rumbled like thunder, making the fog nearby explode and dissipate. The sound waves rushed out, shaking the space, and boulders rolled down the nearby mountain peaks.

    Soon, another voice rang out.

    ¡°Haha, Young Master Xue Yi, you¡¯re finally here.¡± [2]

    Suddenly, the ground split open, revealing a tunnel from which about a dozen figures emerged.

    Two people led the group. One was a youth with a face split down the middle into Yin and Yang colors, which appeared extremely bizarre. A chilling aura radiated from him, instilling fear in those around him.

    The other was a lean, withered old man with a face covered in pustules. asionally, these pustules would burst, releasing a mixture of pus and blood that corroded the ground, leaving behind pitch-ck holes due to their powerful toxicity.

    Yin Yang Schr and Wanderer Hundred Poisons were both experts in the Core Formation realm.

    Young Master Xue Yi looked at the two and asked, ¡°Yin Yang Schr, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, you''ve been here for six months preparing something. I''m curious, what are you nning?¡±

    The unsettling smile of the Yin Yang Schr sent shivers down the spines of the listeners as he replied, ¡°Don¡¯t be so impatient, Young Master Xue Yi. I¡¯ll tell everyone when Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others are here. All you have to know is that this endeavor is significant even to the holy cult. When we¡¯re done, let alone the Great Chu Empire, we¡¯ll be able to act freely even across the entire Hong Domain.¡±

    Hidden in the shadows, Chen Fan eavesdropped on their conversation, realizing that more experts were yet to join them.

    All of a sudden, long whistling noises rose and fell in the distance.

    A colossal sword light cut through the winds, piercing the clouds and descending before the blood pit.

    The biting cold sword qi could almost roll around the entire blood pit. Many of the minions immediately stepped backward, looking horrified.

    Soon, the sword light dissipated, revealing a group led by a figure d in white, standing tall and straight, exuding powerful sword qi that seemed to pierce the heavens.

    This person was also a Core Formation realm expert, and he was even stronger than the Yin Yang Schr and the Wanderer Hundred Poisons.

    Yin Yang Schr, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, and Xue Yi¡¯s eyes immediately narrowed.

    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, Sword Venerable Ling Yun!¡±

    "I hope I''m not toote. Weren''t you just settling in yourself, Young Master Xue Yi?¡±

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s eyebrows were sharp like swords, his facial features seemed extremely sharp. His aura could slice the surrounding blood-colored mist into pieces.

    1. Soaring Snake or Tengshe(ÎŸÉß) is a flying dragon from Chinese Mythology. ?

    2. This Xue Yi and Sir Blood Shirt¡¯s Xue Yi have different characters for Yi. This one has the meaning of wings, while the other has the meaning of shirt. Regardless, they¡¯re very weird names. ?

 Chapter 407 - Shocking Conspiracy

    <h4>Chapter 407 - Shocking Conspiracy</h4>

    Chen Fan lurked quietly, careful not to reveal even a whisper of his aura.

    Young Master Xue Yi, Yin Yang Schr, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, and the recently arrived Sword Venerable Ling Yun all possessed formidable cultivation, each at the very least at the third level of the Core Formation realm. None of them was someone he could deal with given his current strength.

    <i>This is a tough mission¡ªno, it¡¯s actually impossible toplete the mission. They are all way stronger than me. Even escaping unscathed would be a feat in itself if they were to detect me. </i>

    Moreover, their conversation had made it apparent that more experts were about to arrive.

    Suddenly, the sound of something cutting through the air rose again.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    The crimson mist in the air churned violently as a dark figure tore through the air, hurtling toward them at incredible speed. In an instant, he arrived.

    This person was dressed in a ck cloak, streaking across the sky like a bat. He had a high nose, his eyes were like stars, and his eyebrows were like swords. He looked extremely handsome, but a thick evil qi emanated from him.

    Chen Fan could even see vengeful spirits and resentment swirling around him. This person had unjustly killed many.

    Looking at this person¡¯s appearance alone, one would never think he was a vicious, merciless, fiendish person who killed people like flies. Instead, he looked more like a martial artist of the righteous path who meted justice on heaven¡¯s behalf and upheld chivalry.

    ¡°ck Fiend Bat, you¡¯re finally here as well.¡± Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and the others immediately looked at the neer. He was another demonic path expert.

    ck Fiend Bat smiled and said, ¡°I came across two fine cauldrons on my way here and couldn¡¯t help but make a move on them. That¡¯s why I came a littleter. I hope I haven¡¯t missed the party.¡± [1]

    ¡°Very well, now that most of us are here, Yin Yang Schr, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, exin the situation to us,¡± Young Master Xue Yi said.

    Yin Yang Schr said, ¡°Everyone, we all hail from the same sect in a way. In ancient times, our holy cult dominated the world, with a total of nine pces, thirty-six halls, and a hundred and eight branches. Our influence spanned across the Tianwu Continent.

    ¡°Unfortunately, in the aftermath of that great war, the holy cult fell apart. Our members were forced into hiding, bing targets of persecution and hunted down.

    ¡°But, let¡¯s not dwell on the past. Times have changed, yet the me of our cult still burns bright. We are bound to make a return to seize control of the world. When that dayes, our cult members will rise above all, with those self-proimed righteous warriors groveling at our fee¡ª¡±

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun interjected, interrupting Yin Yang Schr''s speech. ¡°Enough of the history lesson, Yin Yang Schr. We all know that. Get to the point. The orthodox path must already know that we have gathered here. So, hurry up and get to the serious business.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then. Since Sword Venerable Ling Yun has spoken up, I¡¯ll be direct.¡± Yin Yang Schr nodded and said, ¡°I presume everyone is aware that this location was a battleground in ancient times. During that war, both our cult and the orthodox path suffered heavy losses, turning the world upside down."

    ¡°You all know that I belong to one of the holy cult¡¯s thirty-six halls, the Corpse Spirit Hall. Back then, the Corpse Spirit Hall was located in Hong Domain.

    ¡°During that great war, the Corpse Spirit Hall¡¯s Hall Master, Daoist Corpse Spirit fought a huge battle at this ce, killing and striking fear into many warriors of the orthodox path.¡±

    Yin Yang Schr''s voice carried a touch of pride.

    Young Master Xue Yi said, ¡°Yin Yang Schr, from what I know, their fight was indeed so grand the sky copsed, the earth split, and the rivers evaporated. He was undoubtedly powerful, killing many of the orthodox path¡¯s Heavenly Star realm experts. However, many Heavenly Star realm powerhouses joined forces and killed Daoist Corpse Spirit. What¡¯s the point in bringing all these up?¡±

    Yin Yang Schr smiled coldly and said, ¡°Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s cultivation was incredibly high back then, having reached the peak of the Heavenly Star realm, even touching the threshold of the Nature Manifestation realm. Had the great war not broken out, he would have undoubtedly advanced to the Heavenly Manifestation realm, bing the tenth pce of our holy cult. [2]

    ¡°In the ancient eastern continent, the might of the Hong Domain rivaled that of the current four great domains, but after that war broke out, many of Hong Domain¡¯s Heavenly Star realm experts were in by Daoist Corpse Spirit, causing the current Hong Domain to decline to be one of the weaker domains.¡±

    ¡°Enough reminiscing about Corpse Spirit Hall''s past glories. Let''s get to the point. Why have you called us all here?¡± ck Fiend Bat said, losing his patience.

    Yin Yang Schr said with a straight face, ¡°That reason is precisely Daoist Corpse Spirit.¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, ck Fiend Bat, and the others¡¯ eyes immediately narrowed.

    ¡°What? Did you find Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s legacy and intend to share a piece of the pie with us?¡± Young Master Xue Yi questioned skeptically. "You wouldn''t be that generous, would you?"

    Yin Yang Schr smiled sinisterly and said, ¡°Hehe, did you all just assume that Daoist Corpse Spirit died in the ancient war?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and the others¡¯ expressions changed drastically.

    ¡°You mean... Daoist Corpse Spirit is alive? How is that possible!¡±

    A surge of astonishment also rippled through Chen Fan.

    He did not know much about that war during the ancient era. Through Young Master Xue Yi, Yin Yang Schr, and the others¡¯ conversation, he had learned quite a bit of its history. He didn¡¯t expect that the Hong Domain''s power in ancient times rivaled the current four great domains¡¯.

    Furthermore, he didn¡¯t know that it had weakened due to the Corpse Spirit Hall¡¯s Hall Master, Daoist Corpse Spirit. Their fight had led to a decline in the Hong Domain''s strength, relegating it to its present status. The magnitude of Daoist Corpse Spirit''s might during that era was beyond imagination.

    <i>Peak of Heavenly Star, touching the threshold of the Nature Manifestation realm...</i>

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but suck in a breath of cold air. Suppressing the shock in his heart, he continued listening in.

    These demonic path cultivators were indeed plotting something huge, as expected. And it seemed it had something to do with Daoist Corpse Spirit.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible!¡± Noticing the astonishment on Young Master Xue Yi and the others¡¯ faces, Yin Yang Schr chuckled and continued, ¡°Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s cultivation had reached a high level. Would it be that easy to kill him?

    ¡°In that battle, no one was a match for Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s ferocious might. Those orthodox Heavenly Star experts had to ultimately ignite their life energy to heavily injure Daoist Corpse Spirit. Then, they joined forces to suppress Daoist Corpse Spirit under the Myriad Deaths Mountains!¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, ck Fiend Bat, and the others were stunned at Yin Yang Schr¡¯s revtion.

    <i>Daoist Corpse Spirit did not die, but was suppressed under Myriad Deaths Mountains?!</i>

    ¡°This time, I called you all here to rescue Daoist Corpse Spirit. When Daoist Corpse Spirit recovers from his injuries, we¡¯ll sweep across Hong Domain, heralding the resurgence of the holy cult in the Tianwu Continent," Yin Yang Schr dered.

    Heaven and earth fell silent as soon as his words settled in.

    1. Here, cauldron refers to other humans who have qualities suitable for acting as vessels to advance his cultivation. Probably the standard virgin beautiful woman with high Yin properties or martial talent. ?

    2. I¡¯m not trying to be inconsistent here, the author uses different words for Nature Manifestation realm(ÍòÏó¾³) and Heavenly Manifestation realm(ÌìÏó¾³). Might be another Qigong/Qi Gathering realm situation, the same but different. Hopefully, we¡¯ll find out more in the future. ?

 Chapter 408 â€“ Exposed

    <h4>Chapter 408 ¨C Exposed</h4>

    Yin Yang Schr¡¯s words had silenced heaven and earth.

    Daoist Corpse Spirit had only been suppressed under the Myriad Deaths Mountains, so he was still alive.

    Now, Yin Yang Schr and the others were ready to rescue him, heralding the resurgence of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect in the Tianwu Continent.

    Chen Fan¡¯s soul almost started trembling.

    He had never imagined that Yin Yang Schr and his cohorts had gathered at the Myriad Deaths Mountains for such a momentous task.

    Should they seed, it would spell a cmity for the Great Chu Empire and perhaps even the entire Hong Domain.

    Although Chen Fan had never experienced the ancient era, he was well-versed in its history through ancient records. Naturally, he knew of the formidable and fearsome reputation of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect during that time.

    Even though the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect had been crippled, its lineage still remained. Like a cockroach, its remnants slowly but surely awoke from their slumber, ready to reim their ce in the world.

    Many Heavenly Star experts had to sacrifice themselves to heavily injure and suppress the Daoist Corpse Spirit here.

    Should he be freed, the entire Hong Domain would witness an apocalypse once he recovered.

    ¡°Yin Yang Schr, you¡¯re not joking, are you? This is all true?¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi and the others¡¯ breathing became heavy. Their gazes were burning as if they were going to swallow Yin Yang Schr alive.

    Yin Yang Schr said, ¡°Do I look like I called you all here just to prank you?¡±

    ¡°So, you aren¡¯t lying?¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun said coldly.

    Yin Yang Schr replied, ¡°Of course. Why else would I go to such lengths to gather us here? As long as we join forces and save Daoist Corpse Spirit, we can make a massive contribution to the holy cult. Once he recovers his cultivation, he can sweep across the Hong Domain. Those who contribute, like us, will be generously rewarded, perhaps even getting the opportunity to advance to the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    Yin Yang Schr paused briefly and said, ¡°Everyone, this is no trick. Rather, I present to you all a remarkable opportunity."

    ¡°Hmph, you phrase it quite diplomatically, Yin Yang Schr!¡± ck Fiend Bat snorted coldly and said, ¡°If you could handle this alone, you wouldn''t be sharing the spoils with us. Clearly, you need our help."

    ¡°Haha, I can¡¯t deny that. After all, many Heavenly Star realm experts worked together to make that seal, so it¡¯s quite formidable. Over three thousand years have passed, so it has weakened greatly, yet I can¡¯t remove it alone.

    ¡°That¡¯s why I''ve reached out to you. Consider a chance to make contributions to the holy cult. So, what say you? I trust you won''t decline my offer?" Yin Yang Schr proposed.

    ¡°Alright, Yin Yang Schr, you''ve done us a great service this time. Daoist Corpse Spiritmands my respect as well. Saving him is a duty we, the members of the cult, cannot shirk from,¡± Young Master Xue Yi said,ughing.

    Yin Yang Schr alsoughed and said, ¡°Haha, Young Master Xue Yi, once Daoist Corpse Spirit is free and in control of the Hong Domain, there will be no more humans, as we would have turned them into blood demons or corpse puppets. Those humans will be nothing more than pigs and dogs. You can feast on as many as you want. And ck Fiend Bat, you¡¯ll have as many cauldrons as you want.¡±

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m sure you already have a n in mind, Yin Yang Schr. Tell us, what do you need us to do?¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun asked.

    Before Yin Yang Schr could speak, Young Master Xue Yi said, ¡°Everyone... We have to deal with one issue before we get down to business.¡±

    Yin Yang Schr and the others narrowed their gazes and said, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Well...¡± A cold smile appeared on Young Master Xue Yi¡¯s face.

    Suddenly, he unfurled his blood wings and vanished from his spot. He reappeared near Chen Fan¡¯s hiding spot and unleashed a palm strike.

    ¡°Brat, how long do you n to hide?¡± said Xue Yi.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Let alone Chen Fan, even Yin Yang Schr and the others were caught off-guard by Xue Yi¡¯s attack. Before he couldprehend the situation, the palm strike was almost upon him.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi was at the third level, and he could destroy mountains with a single palm strike. His attack surged with overwhelming force, attempting to immobilize Chen Fan and deliver a fatal blow.

    Caught off guard, Chen Fan had no option but to reveal himself.

    Drawing upon his cultivation, he summoned forth the Heaven Piercing Spear, which materialized in his palm. He thrust it toward the blood-colored palm seal hurtling his way.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The two¡¯s attacks instantly collided, resulting in deafening noises.

    Fierce crimson light erupted, terrifying whirlwinds swept wildly, and the surrounding mountains shook.

    A chain of explosions rang out.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear destroyed the palm strike at once. Yet, in turn, the spear was shattered by the immense force exchanged between them, unleashing a terrifying shockwave.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The impact sent Chen Fan flying. His face flushed red, and he spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood.

    He had counterattacked in haste, so his preparation had been insufficient, which led to him getting light injuries.

    Xue Yi pped his crimson wings and a blood-colored tornado whistled out, mming into the shockwave. Drifting backward with an air of ease, he appeared unruffled.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Yin Yang Schr and the others¡¯ expressions changed. They never expected someone to eavesdrop on their conversation from so close by.

    It dawned on them that Chen Fan might have overheard their entire discussion.

    Their auras surged, intertwining to form a barrier that enveloped Chen Fan, cutting off any escape routes. Stern, icy gazes bore down on him as if they were looking at a dead person.

    ¡°To actually hide under our noses and eavesdrop on us, how incredibly bold of you!

    ¡°How dare a weakling at the first level dare spy on us?! I, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, can¡¯t help but admire you. However, you have signed your death warrant by doing that.¡±

    ¡°Brat, don¡¯t bother with telling us your name and affiliation. Since you overheard us, there¡¯s no way we¡¯ll let you walk out of Myriad Deaths Mountains alive. No one in this world can save you now!¡±

    Yin Yang Schr, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and the others¡¯ voices were filled with endless icy killing intent.

    Chen Fan stared at Young Master Xue Yi and the others with a stern gaze, his heart sinking.

    Caught off guard by Young Master Xue Yi''s ambush, he found himself surrounded, with no path of escape in sight.

 Chapter 409 - Betrayed by Someone

    <h4>Chapter 409 - Betrayed by Someone</h4>

    Chen Fan looked at Young Master Xue Yi with a dark gaze and asked, ¡°How did you find me?¡±

    He had concealed himself wlessly. He had even taken into ount that powerful blood demons could sniff out his bloodline. He had used the Wind and Cloud Banners to conceal himself, as it could mask the scent of his vitality.

    Still, Young Master Xue Yi found him and his precise location and ambushed him.

    ¡°Haha, brat, you are Chen Fan, aren¡¯t you? A disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect.¡± Young Master Xue Yiughedcently and said, ¡°You might have thought you were well-hidden, but I''ve had my eye on you for quite some time."

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes narrowed, and he said, ¡°How do you know about me?¡±

    The fact that Young Master Xue Yi knew so much about him was unsettling.

    "Of course, I know about you," Young Master Xue Yi continued, his tone dripping with disdain. "Not only do I know that, but I also happen to know that you''re the recent champion of the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition."

    Chen Fan¡¯s heartpletely sank.

    The look on his face brought a look of satisfaction to Young Master Xue Yi¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯ll save you from being an ignorant ghost. I knew about youing to Myriad Deaths Mountains long ago. You used the Wind and Cloud Banners to hide, didn¡¯t you? Clever choice. If I hadn''t known you wereing here, I really wouldn¡¯t have found you."

    Young Master Xue Yi¡¯s words caused Chen Fan¡¯s expression to change.

    <i>He knew everything. How is that possible?</i>

    Aside from the sect leader, only Wei Buyu knew about it. There was no feasible way for anyone else to have been aware of his whereabouts.

    <i>There must be a traitor! I¡¯ve been betrayed!</i> Chen Fan instantly realized.

    There were traitors within the Spring Autumn Sect, allies of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect.

    Billions of thoughts shed in Chen Fan¡¯s mind in an instant.

    <i>Could it be master?</i>

    Chen Fan denied this idea as soon as it appeared.

    <i>Impossible, how would it benefit him? They need me to resist the sect leader¡¯s faction. My death wouldn¡¯t benefit the high elder¡¯s faction at all. </i>

    <i>Is it the sect leader then? That¡¯s very likely. The mission has been dangerous and bizarre from the very start. Master also mentioned that a sect elder should have been assigned this mission, but it was given to me. It¡¯s clear as day that he wanted to trap me.</i>

    The more Chen Fan thought about it, the more convinced he became that the sect leader had betrayed him.

    However, some things still didn¡¯t make sense. Why would the sect leader of the Spring Autumn Sect¡ªa martial artist from the righteous path¡ªhave connections to the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect? If discovered, he would surely end up getting hunted by the mob.

    Even if his conflict with the high elder had escted to extreme levels, it seemed unfathomable that Feng Baiyu would take such a risk.

    Chen Fan looked at Young Master Xue Yi with a stern gaze. Two things were for certain: He had been betrayed, and the betrayer was someone from his sect.

    He suspected some people, but hecked definitive proof.

    ¡°Who betrayed me?¡± Chen Fan asked coldly.

    Since Young Master Xue Yi knew about Chen Fan long ago, it went without saying that someone had sent the information to him. Young Master Xue Yi surely knew the traitor.

    ¡°Quite astute, you are. Then, why don¡¯t you use that head of yours to also figure out the betrayer¡¯s identity? Considering you''re on a mission for holy disciple promotion, it''s safe to say few within the Spring Autumn Sect are exposed to its details. Feel free to guess as boldly as you please," Young Master Xue Yi remarked, hisughterced with mockery.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression contorted.

    Young Master Xue Yi was correct. Few people knew about his mission and even fewer knew his destination.

    Aside from Wei Buyu and Sect Leader Feng Baiyu, only the merit elder remained as a potential suspect.

    <i>That old coot? He purposely made things difficult for me and even sold me a contaminated Divine Stone of Life, hoping that I would die refining it. It would make sense if he is the traitor, perhaps even more so than the sect leader.</i>

    As Chen Fan mulled over his suspicions, he abruptly refocused his thoughts.

    <i>Forget it, now is not the time to think about this. I have to escape somehow. I can¡¯t kill them, but I could expose their sinister plot... The achievement would be massive. </i>

    A brilliant light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He moved his palm slightly, and a faint light shone as the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman appeared in his hand.

    Suddenly, Young Master Xue Yi flipped his palm. A mountainous treasure appeared, and following its activation, the space was directly sealed. He said mockingly, ¡°Oh, right, don¡¯t even think about using the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman. Unfortunately for you, I possess a counter to its powers. The surrounding space is now sealed; you have nowhere to run."

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression darkened. Just when he was about to use the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman to escape, Xue Yi had used a treasure to seal the only path of escape he had left.

    ¡°The traitor is surely from the sect. They even told you about the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman.¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly and secretly moved, tearing the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman, clinging to a glimmer of hope.

    However, his efforts proved futile. Despite his activation of the talisman, the space remained solid, refusing to yield even a crack.

    Young Master Xue Yi noticed his actions and smiled. ¡°There''s no need for secrecy; feel free to use your talisman openly. I want to see you despairing. Don¡¯t worry, I definitely won¡¯t stop you.¡±

    Chen Fan still did not give up. He took out the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman in the open and activated it fiercely.

    The surface of the talisman shed and runes flickered on it,municating with the space and forming a mysterious force, enveloping Chen Fan. However, it failed to move him.

    The Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman soon crumbled. Chen Fan felt like he had fallen into the deep abyss of hell.

    ¡°Who is the traitor? I want to know before I die. Just tell me. Or are you scared I¡¯ll run away?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Young Master Xue Yi, feelingpletely calm.

    Since the Five Thousand Kilometers Discement Talisman was useless, he had only one recourse: buy some time to think of a strategy to escape.

    He was surrounded, and he couldn¡¯t defeat even a single one of his opponents. Moreover, there was also Sword Venerable Ling Yun, a fourth-level Core Formation realm expert, present. It was a hopeless situation.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll tell you then. The person who betrayed you is none other than your master, Wei Buyu!¡± Young Master Xue Yi smiled vaguely, his intention unclear.

 Chapter 410 - Precarious Situation

    <h4>Chapter 410 - Precarious Situation</h4>

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll tell you then. The person who betrayed you is none other than your master, Wei Buyu!¡± Young Master Xue Yi smiled vaguely, his intention unclear.

    Chen Fan fell into silence, his thoughts a mystery to those around him

    Could Wei Buyu have betrayed him?

    It was a possibility.

    But then again, maybe not.

    ¡°Alright, brat, now that you know the traitor¡¯s identity, die. Consider it a blessing to die by our hands,¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun said icily; a sharp sword aura surged around him.

    Young Master Xue Yi smiled and said, ¡°Any final words, brat? Spit ''em out."

    ¡°Myst words are...¡± Chen Fan suddenly raised his head. A fierce light shot out from his eyes, primeval force erupting under his feet.

    Suddenly, he disappeared from his spot,unching himself like a catapult toward ck Fiend Bat.

    Among the five opponents¡ªYin Yang Schr, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and ck Fiend Bat¡ªhe was weakest, being in the early stage of the third level.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan spat out a singr icy note. He held the iron spear tightly in his hand and executed the Devastating Thrust. He wanted to create an opening at ck Fiend Bat''s nk and break free.

    ¡°You damned brat, how dare you resist when death is already upon you. You guys don¡¯t have to make a move. I alone am enough to kill him!¡± ck Fiend Bat was enraged.

    What did he mean by that?

    He deliberately chose to single him out among the five and charged directly at him.

    Was Chen Fan looking down on him?

    ¡°Haha, alright then, ck Fiend Bat. We won¡¯t interfere and just hold the line. Don¡¯t let him run now. If our n fails, it''s on you!" Young Master Xue Yi chuckled.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others did not make a move. They spread their auras, sealing heaven and earth to prevent Chen Fan from escaping. If Chen Fan broke free, it could spell disaster for their scheme.

    ¡°Escape? You guys are looking down on me too much. A first-level ant wants to escape under my watch? What a joke!¡± ck Fiend Bat became angry, smoke emitting from his seven orifices.

    His cultivation immediately erupted. A towering mass of ck primeval force surged at his back, transforming into a gigantic ck bat. With a cry, visible sound waves spread through space.

    This triggered explosions in the air around Chen Fan, slowing his movement as if he were trapped in quicksand.

    Left without a choice, Chen Fan thrust his spear,nding on the sound waves.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    <i>Crash!</i>

    Suddenly, the sound of churning air waves filled Chen Fan''s ears. A ck silhouette rapidly grewrger in Chen Fan¡¯s vision¡ªit was ck Fiend Bat.

    He had lunged forward, his iron-like palms hurtling toward Chen Fan''s head with the force of thunder and the weight of a mountain.

    The palm strike from a third-level Core Formation realm expert blew up the air. Deafening explosions rang out, and a terrifying atmosphere and a deathly aura shrouded Chen Fan.

    ¡°Brat, still clinging to hope after falling into our grasp? What a joke. Go to hell!¡± ck Fiend Batughed nastily,unching his devastating attack without hesitation. His palm strike carried the weight to tten mountains.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan emotionlessly struck out with his palm, executing the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    Having reached the Core Formation realm, his execution of the technique now surged with true primeval power, making the attack much stronger. The wind and the clouds changed colors as a three-fingered palm seal materialized and a deadly intent enveloped the area.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand collided with the palm strike like the Sun colliding into Earth, setting off endless whirlwinds and carving deep scars into the ground.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan flew back, blood seeping out of the corners of his mouth.

    Although he could crush a first-level Core Formation realm expert and defeat a second-level Core Formation realm, he was no match for a third-level Core Formation realm expert.

    Four people stronger than ck Fiend Bat were working together to lock down the area, eyeing him intently. He was in a hopeless situation.

    <i>What do I do here? What should I do? </i>Chen Fan¡¯s mind raced crazily.

    But the reality of his predicament seemed insurmountable. Escape was simply beyond reach.

    ck Fiend Bat couldn¡¯t kill Chen Fan any time soon; with time, he would still end up dead for sure if he couldn¡¯t escape.

    ¡°Just give yourself up, brat. It¡¯s useless no matter how hard you resist. I can give you a quick death if you stop struggling. Otherwise, I¡¯ll make you cry for ten days and nights before granting you the relief of death.¡±

    ck Fiend Bat walked out from the windstorm with a savage expression, his true primeval wreaking havoc around him. The storm couldn¡¯t even get close to him.

    Chen Fan did not say a word. His gaze remained sharp and he charged toward ck Fiend Bat once more, his spear in hand.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. With your strength, people at the same level must be a joke to you. You can also defeat experts at the second level. Quite impressive.

    ¡°However, in the Core Formation realm, a one-level difference is like the distance between heaven and earth. And there are two levels between us. That¡¯s a bridge you can¡¯t cross, even if you have thousands of methods and abilities. Everything is useless in front of absolute strength. Overestimating oneself describes you perfectly, you know that?!¡±

    ck Fiend Bat easily neutralized Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    Seemingly out of patience, Sword Venerable Ling Yun suddenly said, ¡°ck Fiend Bat, stop wasting time. Quickly get rid of this kid. We have urgent matters at hand!"

    In his eyes, Chen Fan, a mere first-level Core Formation realm brat, was only a nuisance worth a single sh.

    ¡°You heard him, brat. Seems you''re determined to resist to the bitter end. Very well, if you can''t grasp the difference between us, I''ll make it crystal clear!¡±

    The true primeval around ck Fiend Bat started boiling.

    A terrifying aura erupted from him, sweeping across the area. Fierce winds stirred, blowing the gravel on the ground and making it roll everywhere.

    ck Fiend Bat used a true killing move at once.

    ¡°ck Fiend Demonic Palm! Go to hell!¡±

    He flipped his palms, pitch-ck and heavy. They became as big as cattail leaf fans, rushing toward Chen Fan, shaking the space.

    He felt his hair standing on end and his pores opening up. A deadly crisis descended upon him.

    The pitch-ck palms were like the hands of death.

    Suddenly, the golden core in Chen Fan¡¯s dantian spun crazily with a hum, generating explosive strength. Golden light burst out from his palm as he executed the Great Brahma Sacred Palm.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

 Chapter 411 - Entering the Sealed Land

    <h4>Chapter 411 - Entering the Sealed Land</h4>

    In the life-and-death situation, Chen Fan had no choice but to unleash his ultimate move¡ªGreat Brahma Sacred Palm!

    A brilliant golden light radiated, piercing through the surrounding aura of blood.

    This technique had been passed down to him by an elder from the Nebulous Battle Pce, imbued with the elder''s profound understanding of cultivation.

    He had also spent some time trying toprehend the technique, and now that he was a Core Formation realm expert, he could execute the Great Brahma Sacred Palm well.

    His hands formed palm seals, surging toward the ck Fiend Bat''s ck Fiend Demonic Palm with a thunderous momentum, capable of copsing mountains and overturning seas.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    A terrifying storm of dust and gravel swept through the area.

    Thunderps rang out endlessly; it seemed like the lord of heaven was enraged and would rain down terrifying punishments upon them, shaking the earth and mountains.

    Chen Fan was struck by the formidable force, blood spewing from his lips as he flew backward like a kite with its string cut.

    ck Fiend Bat didn¡¯t have it easy, either. His palm strike shattered, and the terrifying force mmed onto him like an erupting volcano, bursting his protective true primeval. The impact made him spew fresh blood, and he was in an even more miserable state than Chen Fan.

    ¡°How is that possible? He injured ck Fiend Bat?!¡±

    ¡°That martial skill... It¡¯s special. It¡¯s definitely a mid-earth tier martial skill!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve really underestimated him. This boy is something. We can¡¯t leave him alive. Let¡¯s strike, kill him!¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi and the others exchanged astonished nces as they looked at the two heavily wounded figures before them.

    One was at the first level, while the other was at the third level. Just moments ago, ck Fiend Bat had been confident, only to be swiftly injured by Chen Fan. It was a humiliating reversal of fortune.

    However, they had no time to ridicule ck Fiend Bat. If Chen Fan forced an opening at ck Fiend Bat¡¯s side, it would be devastating for them.

    Thus, Young Master Xue Yi and the others immediately took action.

    Streaks of terrifying force surged toward Chen Fan like coiling dragons, each bearing the aura of death. Any of these strikes could grievously injure him.

    He let out a bitterugh. Despite being already injured, he couldn¡¯t sit back and wait for death.

    With a flip of his palm, he summoned the Wind and Cloud Banners and shrouded himself.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Young Master Xue Yi and the others¡¯ attacksnded on the Wind and Cloud Banners, resulting in a series of explosions. The force rattled Chen Fan, causing him to cough up more blood, his aura faltering.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun shed out, unleashing a thick sword light. A terrifying ripping force descended,nding on the Wind and Cloud Banners, making them shake violently.

    The Wind and Cloud Banners proved to be astonishingly resilient. Despite the relentless assault from Young Master Xue Yi and his allies, they protected Chen Fan.

    ¡°The Wind and Cloud Banners are a Grade-5 treasure. It''s like a damn tortoiseshell, damn it!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun cursed, annoyed and frustrated.

    Yin Yang Schr said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. How long can he hold on when he¡¯s only at the first level? Once his true primeval is exhausted, the Wind and Cloud Banners will copse, and that is when he will die. He can¡¯t support it for long.¡±

    ¡°Yin Yang Schr has a point. We''ll continue our assault, draining his true primeval to maintain the banners. He¡¯ll die without a doubt within an incense stick¡¯s time!¡± Wanderer Hundred Poisons chimed in.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    A barrage of attacks pummeled Chen Fan, the shockwaves reverberating relentlessly, taking their toll on him.

    <i>There¡¯s no way out. The Wind and Cloud Banners use up a lot of true primeval. If this continues, my death is guaranteed. Since I can¡¯t escape... Let¡¯s just gamble.</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell onto the underground tunnel. Yin Yang Schr and Wanderer Hundred Poisons came out from there. It was his only route now¡ªa risky dash into the unknown, but it offered a slim chance of survival.

    He knew that the ancient demonic path powerhouse Daoist Corpse Spirit was suppressed below, so the area was bound to be dangerous. The slightest carelessness would lead to his death.

    Yet, with no other recourse, he had to embrace the gamble, even if it meant facing certain death.

    <i>It¡¯s settled, then!</i> A crazed look shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. After blocking a wave of their indiscriminate bombardment, he rushed toward the underground entrance with a swish.

    ¡°Not good! Damn, he¡¯s trying to enter the sealednd. Quick, stop him!¡± Yin Yang Schr cried out frantically, his expression drastically. He responded the quickest, rushing toward Chen Fan to stop him.

    Young Master Xue Yi, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, and Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s expressions also changed drastically. They charged toward Chen Fan and roared furiously, ¡°How dare you, you little beast!¡±

    Chen Fan ignored them, using all his strength to work the Wind and Cloud Banners to shield himself from head to toe. Like a thunderbolt, he rushed toward the entrance.

    Being the strongest, Sword Venerable Ling Yun crossed the space in the blink of an eye, and his sword shed with a cold light as he channeled his true primeval. A hundred feet long sword light appeared, shing down in the air.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A deafening noise rang out, and the Wind and Cloud Banners shook violently again.

    Chen Fan also spat out a mouthful of blood, staggering from the impact. However, he used the force to propel himself forward, reaching the entrance in a sh.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you want to kill me? Come on then!¡± Chen Fanughed maniacally before heading right into the sealednd.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others gave chase, their expressions twisted in frustration and rage.

    ¡°ck Fiend Bat, you freaking trash, you couldn¡¯t even defeat that brat, but you yapped so much! Trash, trash!¡±

    Yin Yang Schr and the others were furious, pointing at ck Fiend Bat and cursing.

    ck Fiend Bat¡¯s expression was as gloomy as the clouds. Anger rushed to his head and he retorted sarcastically, ¡°I¡¯m trash? You all worked together but still couldn¡¯t stop him or bring him down. Yet you dare to call me ipetent!¡±

    ¡°Enough bickering! Our priority should be figuring out our next move now that he is in there,¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun shouted, erupting with tremendous pressure and subduing the furious ck Fiend Bat, Young Master Xue Yi, and the others.

    ¡°Sword Venerable Ling Yun is right. That brat has broken into the sealednd. Arguing amongst ourselves serves no purpose. We should figure out how to solve this problem. We¡¯ll be the greatest sinners in the world if this little bastard destroys our n to rescue Daoist Corpse Spirit!¡± Wanderer Hundred Poisons also spoke up.

    Yin Yang Schr said with a gloomy expression, ¡°Agreed. There''s no time to waste. Let''s join forces and hunt him down. We cannot allow him to sabotage our ns."

    They discussed together for a bit and then entered the sealednd.

 Chapter 412 - Mountain of Seals

    <h4>Chapter 412 - Mountain of Seals</h4>

    When Chen Fan stepped into the sealednd, an extremely overwhelming murderous will washed over him.

    A sprawling battlefield appeared before his eyes.

    The air was thick with the scent of blood, amidst the chaotic scene of relentlessbat. Countless experts fought, trying to kill each other to ensure their own survival. Limbs, intact and broken, flew around like gravel, and blood was everywhere. The battlefield looked like a human ughterhouse.

    This murderous will could even capture the minds of high-level Yuanfu realm experts, leading them to lose their rationale and sink into this murderous will, turning them into bloodthirsty lunatics.

    <i>What a terrifying murderous will. This ancient battle must have been terrifying. Experts are falling like raindrops and their sh can make mountains crumble and the earth crack. Even the sun and the moon are losing their light. Is this what an apocalypse looks like? </i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart tightened, aware that the murderous will emanated from the ancient era battle.

    Even though more than a thousand years had passed since the death of all these experts, that kind of unseen will lingered and did not dissipate.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan had strong cultivation and an equally strong spirit, so the murderous will did not affect his mind. His gaze burned like a torch as he quickly flew through the tunnel.

    This sealednd was like a maze. Tunnels were everywhere, connecting to different ces.

    Chen Fan could only go forward based on his gut instinct. He didn¡¯t dare to dy things, as he could already sense that Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and the others were chasing him.

    ¡°Hurry, that little bastard went this way.¡±

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others pursued Chen Fan, their eyes aze with killing intent, effortlessly navigating the darkness of the underground terrain.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Chen Fan moved quickly, with the Wind and Cloud Banners protecting him at all times.

    ¡°You won¡¯t get away, brat. Quickly give yourself up!¡± said Sword Venerable Ling Yun coldly from behind.

    The sharp sound of air being torn apart rang, followed by a dangerous aura descending.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t need to turn around and look to realize that Sword Venerable Ling Yun had made a move.

    The thick sword light was blinding in the dark underground, carrying an unbreakable, sharp aura as it flew toward him.

    <i>Bang, bang!</i>

    The sword light fell onto the Wind and Cloud Banners, resulting in a series of explosions. However, it failed to slow down Chen Fan.

    Anxiety gnawed at him as he raced through thebyrinthine tunnels of the sealednd. The absence of clear paths made his usual means of escape, the Wings of Rain Dragon, ineffective, leaving him at a disadvantage against his pursuers. He was running with all his strength, but the distance between the two parties kept shrinking.

    While Chen Fan was fleeing for his life, he struck the stone walls on the side of the tunnels, hoping they would copse and impede his pursuers.

    However, the walls were so sturdy that despite being a Core Formation realm expert, he failed to even scratch them. It was simply unbelievable.

    <i>This is troublesome. This is a tunnel, so I will soon run into a dead end. It¡¯s only a matter of time before they catch up to me!</i>

    Chen Fan was anxious, wondering if entering this sealednd was even a good idea to begin with. However, it was toote for regret now, and he could only keep running.

    Soon, he saw that this tunnel led to an open area. With a swish, he rushed out of the tunnels and arrived at a vast underground space. The space actually had a huge mountain.

    The underground mountain likely wouldn¡¯t be ssified as ¡°huge¡± outside, but it exuded an aura of grandeur and awe-inspiring majesty.

    Who would have thought that there was a mountain beneath their feet?

    However, this mountain was unusual. He could sense several powerful energies on it. Runes flickered on the surface of the mountain¡ªthose were seal runes.

    ¡°This mountain...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrunk violently.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    In swift session, Sword Venerable Ling Yun and hispanions arrived, their expressions mirroring Chen Fan''s astonishment at the sight before them.

    Yin Yang Schr said, ¡°This mountain is called the Mountain of Seals, and Daoist Corpse Spirit is suppressed within it!¡±

    ¡°Ahh... I was wondering why there was a mountain here. So, it is the Mountain of Seals. If we destroy the mountain, Daoist Corpse Spirit will be freed and could make aeback, right?¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun said.

    Young Master Xue Yi said, ¡°It has already lost ny percent of its powers. All we have to do now is join hands and set up a grand killing formation to break this Mountain of Seals. However, we should kill that Chen Fan before anything else

    ¡°That¡¯s right, we mustn¡¯t let this brat escape. If he gets out, let alone helping Daoist Corpse Spirit break free from his suppression, we might even face a disaster ourselves,¡± Wanderer Hundred Poisons said.

    ¡°Then what are we waiting for? Let¡¯s strike together and kill him,¡± ck Fiend Bat said, his expression savage.

    After the humiliation he had felt, he wanted to rip Chen Fan to shreds, likely even more than saving Daoist Corpse Spirit.

    ¡°No need to waste your strength anymore, brat. Entering the sealednds is the same as walking into the jaws of death. You can forget about escaping.¡± Young Master Xue Yi¡¯s powerful aura flourished, covering the skies.

    ¡°Brat, you thought you could escape? There''s no escape for you here. You''re trapped,¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun said coldly.

    Yin Yang Schr suddenly said, ¡°Wait! Why don¡¯t we capture him and use him as the eye of the formation? We¡¯ll drain all his energy to break the Mountain of Seals. It''s a fitting fate for someone like him."

    ¡°Fine, Yin Yang Schr has a point. We can¡¯t kill him so easily. We¡¯ll drain all his energy to free Daoist Corpse Spirit. That¡¯ll save us some energy,¡± Wanderer Hundred Poisons said, agreeing with the proposal.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart sank. Now, there truly was nowhere for him to run.

    <i>Since that is the case, I can only go all in. Even if I die, I¡¯ll have to drag one or two of them down with me!</i>

    A ferocious light shone in his eyes; he looked like a beast.

    Even a cornered beast fought to its death, rather than waiting for death. Even if he died, it had to be for nothing

    ¡°Huh, brat, it seems you''re determined to fight to the bitter end. Looks like you¡¯re still unclear about your situation. I know what you¡¯re thinking. You want to drag some of us down with you, don¡¯t you? However, the real question is... can you?¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun said coldly, seeing through Chen Fan¡¯s n.

    <i>Buzz, buzz!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Before Chen Fan could respond, a sudden upheaval rocked the ground beneath them, sending shockwaves rippling through the air.

    The sealing runes on the mountain simultaneously shed violently, blossoming with a light that illuminated the surroundings as if it were daytime.

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±

    This sudden turn of events left Chen Fan, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and the others confused and surprised.

 Chapter 413 - Daoist Corpse Spirit

    <h4>Chapter 413 - Daoist Corpse Spirit</h4>

    ¡°What? What!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±

    ¡°Quick, look at the Mountain of Seals...¡±

    With the sudden turn of events, Chen Fan, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, and the others were visibly startled, their eyes widening.

    The Mountain of Seals suddenly shook violently. Light blossomed from the sealing runes, illuminating the space. The seals¡¯ powers erupted, nearly suffocating them.

    The mountain was created three thousand years ago when many Heavenly Star realm powerhouses worked together to suppress the invincible Daoist Corpse Spirit. They intended to gradually weaken Daoist Corpse¡¯s spirit until he died.

    After three thousand years, the mountain had lost ny percent of its powers. Still, its sealing power was quite terrifying, suffocating Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others for a while.

    <i>tter!</i>

    Suddenly, the jangling of chains being pulled rang out.

    Yin Yang Schr was momentarily taken aback, then immediately reacted to the situation as immense joy appeared on his face. ¡°He has awakened, it must be Daoist Corpse Spirit awakening!¡±

    The Mountain of Seals suppressed and sealed Daoist Corpse Spirit. The abrupt disturbance and the violent eruption of the sealing power hinted at his resurrection.

    Chen Fan had alsoe to that conclusion, and his expression changed drastically.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    He decided to break out of the encirclement, but a fissure suddenly tore open in the Mountain of Seals. Immediately, an immense power descended upon Chen Fan, immobilizing him.

    Chen Fan could only move his eyes now. A voice, weathered with age yet tinged with wild tion, reached his ears.

    ¡°Very good, very good.¡±

    Chen Fan knew that this voice belonged to Daoist Corpse Spirit!

    He revolved his cultivation, hoping to break free from this invisible power, but even his cultivation seemed imprisoned. He couldn¡¯t even channel his true primeval, so it was impossible for him to break free.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    The seal runes on the fissure also shook violently, as if they were enraged. Their terrifying sealing powers erupted wildly, trying to close the opening.

    ¡°Haha,e in!¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯sughter rang out. Chen Fan was pulled into the Mountain of Seals

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Yin Yang Schr suddenly knelt on the ground and kowtowed. ¡°Corpse Spirit Hall disciple Yin Yang Schr greets the Hall Master!¡±

    As the strength of the Daoist Corpse Spirit waned, the narrow fissure gradually sealed shut. ¡°Very good, you¡¯ve all done very well. After three thousand years, I will finally see the light of day again. Set up a Great Destruction Formation and break this Mountain of Seals. Your rewards will be ample once I am free."

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    The small fissure on the Mountain of Seals closedpletely.

    ¡°Good, Daoist Corpse Spirit is indeed still alive.¡±

    Yin Yang Schr stood up, his eyes flickering and glistening with light. ¡°Everyone, Daoist Corpse Spirit has captured that brat, so he is as good as dead. Now, we¡¯ll follow his instructions andy down a Great Destruction Formation to destroy the mountain.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡±

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others nodded one after another.

    ......

    ¡°This...¡±

    Chen Fan felt a spell of dizziness, but he could finally move.

    He tried his best to channel his cultivation right away. He was trembling all over as the white-golden heaven-refining mes rose to the skies.

    Suddenly, he felt the space around him moving¡ªno, it was shifting. Chen Fan was sure that not even the sect master, Feng Baiyu, was capable of shifting space like that.

    He was now a Core Formation realm expert, and he had learned a lot of things in the Spring Autumn Sect. So, he was no longer the ignorant young man from the past.

    However, he was still powerless to resist such a change. He knew that this was a powerhouse that was countless times stronger than him, using their astounding means to capture and disce him.

    Fortunately, the spatial discement stopped very soon.

    Standing on solid ground, Chen Fan realized he had appeared in an ancient hall.

    In the center of that hall was a huge pool. Spring water was gushing out from that pool, spewing out a terrifying aura that simply left one¡¯s mind trembling.

    ¡°That is the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water!¡±

    Chen Fan was shocked. He immediately recognized that the spring water in that huge pool was the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water; it specialized in restraining evil.

    <i>tter, tter...</i>

    The jangling of chains suddenly rang out from the pool, as if a supreme demon was sealed within.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart tightened up.

    He knew that Daoist Corpse Spirit had somehow brought him inside the Mountain of Seals. He stared fixedly at the huge pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water, bubbling non-stop.

    Daoist Corpse Spirit was most likely sealed inside the huge pool, and the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water was trying to wear down Daoist Corpse Spirit, slowly killing him.

    The iron chains jangled for some time before the noises stopped.

    From the depths of the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water, wisps of ck smoke ascended, coalescing into a withered, dark gold-hued middle-aged figure.

    Though the aura of this middle-aged man seemed feeble, Chen Fan felt a profound sense of dread and awe emanating from him, as if he faced not a mortal, but a deity.

    There was a certain lethargy in his aura, yet Chen Fan felt overwhelmed. He felt like the middle-aged man could send him flying by breathing. His cherished cultivation seemed utterly futile in the face of this middle-aged figure.

    The middle-aged man had just used astonishing means to rip open the Mountain of Seals and shift him into its interior; he was the demonic path powerhouse sealed here three thousand years ago¡ªDaoist Corpse Spirit.

    Chen Fan looked at Daoist Corpse Spirit vigntly, confused as to why he would bring him inside despite suffering bacsh from the Mountain of Seals.

    After all, even if Daoist Corpse Spirit was locked down by the chains, killing Chen Fan would be as simple as breathing for him.

    ¡°Kid, are you scared?¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s icy cold gaze fell onto Chen Fan. His voice sounded like two steel tes rubbing together, making people shudder.

    Chen Fan braced himself and said, ¡°Senior is a mighty powerhouse from the ancient era whose ferocity spread far and wide. Of course, I¡¯m scared.¡±

    ¡°Keke.¡± Daoist Corpse Spiritughed strangely and said with a fiendish expression, ¡°It¡¯s useless even if you¡¯re scared. Do you know why I spent so much energy to bring you here?¡±

    Without giving Chen Fan a chance to reply, Daoist Corpse Spirit continued, ¡°I was suppressed for three thousand years, subjected to the corrosion of this Heavenly Yang Sacred Water day and night. My body has long since rotted away, but your body is really not bad. Although it¡¯s still very weak in my eyes, as long as I possess you, I can make aeback into the world after refining it!

    ¡°Kekeke, hahaha, brat, you should feel proud to have caught my eye, you know that!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s face changed colors.

 Chapter 414 - Corpse Spirit Takeover

    <h4>Chapter 414 - Corpse Spirit Takeover</h4>

    Chen Fan''s heart sank as he realized that Daoist Corpse Spirit wanted to possess him.

    ¡°How about it? Brat, aren''t you thrilled that I''ve taken a liking to you? You must have heard about me. I will use your body to rule over thends in the future. Consider yourself fortunate for the karma you''ve umted in your past life.¡± Daoist Corpse Spiritughed out loud.

    ¡°What if I don¡¯t agree?¡± Chen Fan said.

    ¡°You don¡¯t agree?¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit abruptly stoppedughing. He replied coldly, ¡°Then you can only die. I have brought you into the Mountain of Seals, which means you''re destined to be possessed by me. Frankly, you''re like a fish that''s walked straight into my. If you don¡¯t resist, I won¡¯t erase your soul. After we leave, I will even find you a body for rebirth. And if you resist, you can¡¯t me me for erasing your soul.

    ¡°Truth be told, resisting is useless. Even though I''m restrained by these chains, I could effortlessly crush you like an ant if even a fraction of my power were to leak out. In my eyes, you truly are no different from an ant.

    ¡°Come on, release the chains in your mind. Don¡¯t resist and let my divine nascent enter your body. Once I break free from here, rest assured, I''ll offer you a huge opportunity. I can take you in as my disciple and let your n grow instantly, bing royalty.¡±

    Daoist Corpse Spirit''s words wereden with temptation.

    ¡°Dream on, you demonic being! Hmph, do you think I don¡¯t know what¡¯s happening? You might be an ancient demonic path powerhouse, but you were heavily injured by the joined forces of the orthodox path, not to mention being suppressed here for three thousand years. Your cultivation is waning, hanging by a thread. I¡¯m sure your divine nascent powers are depleted as well. If you want to possess me, then don¡¯t me me if both of us suffer!¡± Chen Fan said ruthlessly.

    How could he not notice that when Daoist Corpse Spirit made it so obvious? Why else would someone that strong resort to verbal threats and coercion rather than action?

    Being suppressed here, Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s powers dwindled with each passing moment. If Chen Fan steeled himself to resist, it remained uncertain whether the corpse spirit could sessfully take over unless hepletely surrendered and allowed it.

    Chen Fan no longer cared about his life and death. If Daoist Corpse Spirit seeded in possessing him, it would spell disaster for the entire Tianwu Continent.

    He practiced an unparalleled divine art, so if Daoist Corpse Spirit took possession of him, his cultivation would improve quickly¡ªa scenario Chen Fan couldn''t bear to imagine.

    ¡°Brat, it seems you¡¯ve chosen to reject the toast only to receive a penalty! Three thousand years ago, I wouldn''t have spared a nce for a mere ant like you. I allowed you to let me possess you and was even ready to ept you as my disciple. But, you dare refuse such a heavenly favor? You actually don¡¯t appreciate it? You wish to die, huh? Then I¡¯ll grant your wish!¡±

    Daoist Corpse Spirit was enraged. Given his status, how dare someone like Chen Fan refuse? And that ant even rejected his threats and rewards.

    Daoist Corpse Spirit suddenly moved, dragging his chains with him. The chains rubbed against one another, producing crisp noises. Their powers immediately erupted, trying to limit his strength.

    Although Daoist Corpse Spirit was already on hisst legs, his strength was still overwhelming.

    Moreover, he was determined to attack, so he ended up breaking a few sealing chains with loud noises.

    Daoist Corpse Spirit waved his hand. A huge, dark golden palm pressed down through the air, its aura filling the entire hall.

    ¡°Hand of Corpse Spirit!¡±

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    In the great hall, the huge, dark golden palm pressed down, heavy as a mountain, wanting to squeeze out all the air inside Chen Fan, inch by inch.

    It immobilized Chen Fan and seemingly solidified his true primeval.

    He truly was like an ant under Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s immense powers. He couldn¡¯t put up any resistance; the difference in strength between them was too great.

    ¡°Do you think you can fight me? Bargain with me?¡±

    Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s dark golden hand bound even space and time. The air directly solidified into a domain.

    He felt the disparity between their strength again. Let alone being on the same level, he doubted they were even on the same ne of power. He was insignificant like a speck of dust.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz!</i>

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s actions made the sealing powers erupt violently. Lightning bolts darted toward Daoist Corpse Spirit, splitting his flesh and charring it.

    ¡°Brat, everything you have belongs to me. Give up! Even if I only have a mere fraction of my strength, you, a mere ant in the Core Formation realm, stand no chance against me.¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit''s voice dripped with disdain.

    A soul light flickered on Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s head, followed by his divine nascent rising and mming against Chen Fan¡¯s be.

    Chen Fan could only watch as Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent rushed into his mind.

    ¡°Brat, your soul, annihte!¡± An overbearing voice rang in his mind. Daoist Corpse Spirit''s divine essence surged with overwhelming power, intent on obliterating Chen Fan''s soul to seize control of his body.

    An evil, powerful, irresistible energy blossomed in Chen Fan¡¯s be¡ªthe energy of the Daoist Corpse Spirit. It invaded his mind, seeking to erode his soul.

    Suddenly, Daoist Corpse Spirit shouted, ¡°W-what is this?! What is hidden in the depths of your be? Is that a small golden human? How bizarre. Very well, I shall unearth it!"

    Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s energy rushed toward the small golden person, enveloping him and trying to dig him out.

    However, as soon as Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s energy came into contact with the small golden person, heaven and earth changed colors.

    Golden radiance erupted with a divine might akin to hellfire; its majesty was akin to the boundless sea.

    The once motionless small golden figure now radiated absolute authority, swiftly obliterating the energy of the Daoist Corpse Spirit in a blinding sh.

    The small golden person was like an awakened deity, delivering justice to the demon who dared spheme the divine.

    ¡°Ah, damn it! What sorcery is this! My gods, why is it so terrifying? Not good, get out, quickly get out!¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit''s terror was palpable.

    His divine nascent started melting like snow under the golden light, unable to resist.

    A deathly aura enveloped him. Never had he experienced such panic, not even amidst the onught of numerous Heavenly Star realm experts.

    His divine nascent tried to rush out of Chen Fan¡¯s be, ready to give up on possessing him. Yet, the small golden figure was incensed. Beams of golden light transformed into chains, binding his divine nascent. A terrifying energy came rushing over him, and Daoist Corpse Spirit immediately felt his divine nascent heading toward its death.

 Chapter 415 - Not Only Failing But Also Suffering a Loss

    <h4>Chapter 415 - Not Only Failing But Also Suffering a Loss</h4>

    Outside the Mountain of Seals:

    Young Master Xue Yi, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, Yin Yang Schr, and others arranged the Great Destruction Formation.

    At Yin Yang Schr¡¯smand, countless minions split up and flew in different directions, upying various positions.

    ¡°Say, why do you think Daoist Corpse Spirit pulled that brat Chen Fan into the mountain?¡± Young Master Xue Yi said with a chuckle.

    Once they destroyed the mountain and freed Daoist Corpse Spirit, they would all be great, meritorious servants. They would get generous rewards from him, so this was a heavenly opportunity.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun said, ¡°Daoist Corpse Spirit has been under the seal for three thousand years, so he must be nearingplete exhaustion, his life force drained by the seal''s power. His physical form likely deteriorated. He should be thinking of taking over that brat¡¯s body.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Daoist Corpse Spirit must be nning on gaining new life by possessing him,¡± Wanderer Hundred Poisons said.

    Yin Yang Schr said, ¡°Regardless of Daoist Corpse Spirit''s intentions, that brat is dead for sure. Let¡¯s quickly set up the Great Destruction Formation and destroy the Mountain of Seals.¡±

    As they conversed, theypleted the arrangement of the Great Destruction Formation, upying all directions and activating the geographical energies per Feng Shui principles, creating an unstoppable killing array.

    ¡°Quickly activate it and destroy the Mountain of Seals!¡± Yin Yang Schr roared. His true primeval erupted thoroughly. Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others didn¡¯t hesitate either and used their powers to start the Great Destruction Formation.

    Suddenly, the underground space shook. The earth split open as clumps of dirt coalesced into a colossal mountain, thrusting forth from the depths.

    The demonic beings roared furiously in unison. Immediately, the dust and soil around rose and turned into a vortex. A terrifying spectacle unfolded, crackling as if heavenly lightning had ignited earthly fire.

    Yin Yang Schr and the others exerted their powers simultaneously.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    A colossal ax materialized, descending ruthlessly upon the Mountain of Seals, its immense force capable of sundering stars.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Mountain of Seals immediately erupted with resplendent light. The sealing runes on it flickered violently but remained unaffected.

    ¡°Again!¡±

    Yin Yang Schr and the others channeled their qi fiercely, activating the great formation, andunched attacks at the Mountain of Seals.

    With much of its energy depleted, the Mountain of Seals wouldn¡¯tst long if they attacked it continuously. And if they seeded in destroying the mountain, they would seed in freeing the suppressed Daoist Corpse Spirit.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Deafening noises rang out. The entire internal space shook violently.

    ......

    ¡°Ah!¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit howled furiously, heedless of his surroundings. ¡°What sorcery is this? My divine nascent is about to melt. How could this happen? Damn it, damn it!¡±

    His divine nascent was locked in ce by the golden light. A terrifying power kept melting his divine nascent, and death was slowly creeping up to him.

    Daoist Corpse Spirit had been a dominant force during the ancient era, causing immense turmoil in the Hong Domain and killing countless orthodox path experts. His ferocious might was unrivaled, instilling fear among many denizens.

    Numerous Heavenly Star realm experts had to join forces and ignite their life force just to suppress him. They could only keep him sealed here, wearing him down day and night with Heavenly Yang Sacred Water.

    Yet, he didn¡¯t die. He had thought he could easily possess Chen Fan, but to his growing horror, he realized that inside Chen Fan¡¯s be was a force that could make him fear death.

    ¡°No! Break for me! Break!¡±

    Fear gripped Daoist Corpse Spirit''s divine nascent as it surged with immense power, even igniting its origin energy, hoping to break free from the golden chains and evade death. If this continued, his divine nascent wouldpletely melt and he would die.

    Daoist Corpse Spirit would face utter annihtion¡ªnot at the hands of a formidable foe, but at the hands of someone he had deemed insignificant, like an ant!

    Meanwhile, as the small golden person and Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent fought, Chen Fan felt like he was standing at the epicenter of a cyclone, feeling like his soul was about to be torn apart. He was in extreme pain, making him roll around on the ground.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± Miserable screams rang out from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth.

    Suddenly, the small golden person reached out with a palm. It seemed like an immortal was reaching out to grab the divine nascent.

    <i>Pop!</i>

    ¡°No! Let me go! Let me go!¡± Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent was terrified and begged for mercy. However, it was all for naught.

    The small golden person emanated an aura of supreme divine power. Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent was like ice, melting and transforming into a mass of pure energy.

    Afterward, the small golden person withdrew its light as if nothing had happened.

    Now that their fight was over, Chen Fan sat up, his clothes drenched in sweat, and rubbed his be. He came back to his senses after some time, hisplexion pale.

    Using his inner vision, he saw that aside from the small golden person, there was also a mass of energy emitting a gentle light in his be.

    ¡°Phew...¡± Chen Fan exhaled deeply, his eyes gleaming.

    The small golden person had saved him again.

    ¡°Very well, the annihtion of Daoist Corpse Spirit''s divine nascent marks the end of this ancient demonic powerhouse. I stopped the world from getting devastated; it¡¯s quite the achievement,¡± Chen Fan mumbled.

    ¡°And then there''s this energy mass. Despite being only a fraction of its original size, considering Daoist Corpse Spirit was once a peak Heavenly Star realm powerhouse, even touching the threshold of the Nature Manifestation realm, its energy is formidable. Just this mass of energy should be enough to raise my cultivation by a few levels!¡±

    Daoist Corpse Spirit''s attempt to possess his body had backfired. Not only did he fail, but he even sealed his own fate and unwittingly became nourishment for Chen Fan''s growth.

    ¡°Very well, with this energy mass and the Divine Stone of Life¡¯s energy, I now have absolute confidence that I can thoroughly trample Duan Jingtian under my feet soon!¡±

    An iparably sharp light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Surviving such a monumental disaster had yielded incredibly bountiful rewards.

    Not only did he acquire Daoist Corpse Spirit''s divine energy, but also the invaluable pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A deafening noise rang as the space shook violently.

    Chen Fan concluded that Yin Yang Schr and the others had started attacking the Mountain of Seals.

    ¡°Whatever, I¡¯ll use Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine energy to raise my cultivation first and wait for them to destroy the mountain. I¡¯ll give them a huge surprise!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent.

    He had no way of leaving now, as he couldn¡¯t break open the Mountain of Seals from the inside.

    After all, even Daoist Corpse Spirit had to exhaust a huge amount of energy to tear a crack open.

    Now, he could only wait for Yin Yang Schr and the others to unleash the great formation¡¯s powers to break it.

    However, he also needed to increase his cultivation. Otherwise, facing Yin Yang Schr and his allies would be useless, leading only to his death.

 Chapter 416 - Third-level Core Formation

    <h4>Chapter 416 - Third-level Core Formation</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Yin Yang Schr and the others attacked the Mountain of Seals fiercely with the Great Destruction Formation.

    Massive qi axes chopped down one after another. Even someone at the fifth level would tremble under the might of this grand formation.

    For the past three thousand years, the Mountain of Seals had been working constantly, expending its energy; it wasn¡¯t as strong as it used to be. Under the indiscriminate bombardment from Yin Yang Schr and the others, via the activation of the formation, the sealing runes on its surface began to break.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Cracking noises rang out, invigorating Yin Yang Schr and the others.

    ¡°Haha, good, some sealing runes have already given way. Let¡¯s work harder, everyone. It wouldn¡¯t be long before we breach the Mountain of Seals and help Senior Daoist Corpse Spirit break free. Our efforts will surely be rewarded generously," encouraged Yin Yang Schr.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun grinned and said, ¡°Haha, once Senior Daoist Corpse Spirit recovers his cultivation, the entire Hong Domain will have to submit to him. Anyone who refuses will be killed without mercy!¡±

    The minions roared excitedly.

    ¡°Killed without mercy!¡±

    ¡°Killed without mercy!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure Senior Daoist Corpse Spirit has already possessed Chen Fan and is recovering. Our holy cult will soon gain another ancient powerhouse!¡± Young Master Xue Yi also said with a smile.

    They chatted while continuously materializing giant axes that chipped away at the Mountain of Seals. More and more sealing runes failed to withstand the terrifying force and cracked apart.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack!</i>

    Cracks appeared all over the Mountain of Seals.

    Inside the Mountain of Seals, Chen Fan sat cross-legged, refining Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine energy to raise his cultivation level.

    He had already reached the peak of the first level using the Divine Stone of Life¡¯s energy. As he refined the divine nascent essence with the Heaven Seizing Furnace, its vast vitality surged forth immediately, rushing into and coursing through him.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan felt like a flood of energy was wreaking havoc inside him. A terrifying aura erupted from within him, and fierce winds whistled around him.

    It was the divine nascent essence of a peak Heavenly Star realm powerhouse. While it was only a tiny fraction of it, it was enough to drive even a Divine Nascent realm expert crazy for it when refined. Yet, here it was, benefiting Chen Fan.

    He channeled the Heaven Seizing Art, his true primeval energy circting within him, and his golden core spun furiously in his dantian.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A resounding boom emanated from within Chen Fan. Instantly, his aura surged like an unleashed flood, relentlessly hitting the interior of the Mountain of Seals, causing it to tremble violently.

    Before long, his cultivation broke through to the second level.

    Outside, Yin Yang Schr and the others also sensed the intense vibration emanating from inside the mountain.

    Ecstasy showed on their faces as Yin Yang Schr shouted, ¡°Wonderful, Senior Daoist Corpse Spirit must have seeded in possessing him. He is attacking the Mountain of Seals from the inside. If the mountain is attacked from the outside and the inside, it will be destroyed even quicker.¡±

    They assumed that the disturbance from Chen Fan¡¯s advancement was the Daoist Corpse Spirit attacking the mountain. Their goal:bine forces inside and out to speed up the destruction of the Mountain of Seals.

    Had they known that Daoist Corpse Spirit''s divine energy was fueling Chen Fan''s cultivation, they might have been driven to vomit blood from frustration.

    But Chen Fan paid no mind. His cultivation and his aura continued to surge without pause.

    The Heavenly Seizing Furnace revolved furiously. It refined Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence, releasing vast amounts of energy that helped Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation skyrocket.

    The second level of the Core Formation realm!

    Middle stage of the second level!

    Late stage of the second level!

    He was improving his cultivation so quickly that it was scary.

    The energy mass was also constantly shrinking. However, it contained a massive amount of energy, so it wasn¡¯t shrinking fast.

    <i>Refine!</i> Chen Fan roared furiously in his heart. More of the divine nascent energy transformed into his nourishment.

    <i>Boom, boom...</i>

    His aura surged like a tidal wave, shaking the very fabric of space.

    Tumultuous waves churned inside the mountain. The pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water roared in response.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan reached the peak of the second level, just a step away from the third level of the Core Formation realm.

    Time slowly ticked away.

    Outside, Yin Yang Schr and the others bombarded the seals tirelessly.

    Each attack fractured the sealing runes, weakening the Mountain of Seal further as it began to crumble.

    Simultaneously, within the mountain, Chen Fan also slowly inched toward the third level.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Another three days passed. Another thunderous boom erupted from Chen Fan. He felt like his joints had loosened, and his conception and governor vessels were clear. His true primeval rushed through his meridians like a wide river, strength flowing through him. [1]

    ¡°Roar!¡± Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but let out an extended roar, making the air burst into rings of white qi waves.

    He had advanced to the third level.

    Inside the Heaven Seizing Furnace, the divine nascent essence, once the size of an adult''s fist, had shrunk to merely half the size of an infant''s fist after much of it was refined.

    Chen Fan did not continue refining it to raise his cultivation. With his current level, hisbat prowess was more than sufficient to fight Yin Yang Schr and their allies.

    He sealed the remaining divine nascent essence at the bottom of the Heaven Seizing Furnace, stood up, and threw out a palm strike.

    A terrifying force rushed out, turning Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s rotten body to powder, leaving nothing behind.

    ¡°Very good, Heavenly Yang Sacred Water can wear down evil qi and also temper flesh. It¡¯s enough to allow my Myriad Elephants Divine Art to reach the twelfthyer, perhaps even the thirteenth. I can advance to the Myriad Elephants realm!¡± [2]

    With no reason to let such a precious resource go to waste, Chen Fan resolved to take it.

    Advancing his Myriad Elephants Divine Art would be increasingly challenging as it progressed, often resulting in minimal progress over months.

    Heavenly Yang Sacred Water''s powerful flesh-refining properties were a rare find, so he couldn¡¯t let it go to waste.

    ¡°Retrieve!¡± Chen Fan grabbed at the air, digging out the entire pool of water. A terrifying strength surged in space.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    The pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water was even heavier than a ten thousand-foot-tall mountain. Every drop was heavier than mercury.

    This entire pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water weighed at least fifty thousand kilograms.

    His qi erupted, the ground cracked, and the huge pool was pulled up entirely.

    Even though it weighed fifty thousand kilograms, it was no big deal for Chen Fan. A Core Formation realm expert could easily destroy mountains.

    ¡°Collect!¡± With another motion, he drew the pool into his storage ring through the air.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Simultaneously, the Mountain of Seals quaked violently, followed by a cacophony of cracking noises.

    After attacking the Mountain of Seals for more than half a month continuously, Yin Yang Schr and the others had finallypletely worn down thest of its energy. The sealing runes were all gone. The mountain had cracked open and crumbled apart.

    1. The Conception and Governor vessels are specific meridians of the body, though the author uses the words ¡®as if¡¯ here so it doesn¡¯t really matter. ?

    2. Fun fact, myriad elephants and Nature Manifestation realm uses the same word, but different context. ?

 Chapter 417 - Killing in Front of Them

    <h4>Chapter 417 - Killing in Front of Them</h4>

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    A series of cracking noises echoed through the air as cracks spread out like a spiderweb, twisting and turning across the entire Mountain of Sealing, sending rubble rolling down.

    After half a month of relentless attacks, Yin Yang Schr and the others had finally weakened the finalyers of the sealing powers covering the Mountain of Seal, leading to its copse.

    ¡°Hahaha, good, our work is done. Let us wee Senior Daoist Corpse Spirit as he breaks free!¡±

    Despite their exhaustion, Yin Yang Schr and hispanions couldn''t contain theirughter, brimming with excitement.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With another loud noise, the entire mountain blew apart. From within, Chen Fan unleashed a palm strike, shattering the mountain, and stepped out.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Yin Yang Schr and the others immediately flew over and half-knelt on the ground. They respectfully said, ¡°Congrattions to Senior Corpse Spirit for breaking free!¡±

    Momentarily surprised, Chen Fan quicklyposed himself. He concluded that they believed Daoist Corpse Spirit had sessfully possessed him.

    A cold gleam shed in his eyes as he said, ¡°Very well. You''ve all performed admirably. Your efforts have been instrumental in freeing me from suppression. Rest assured, I will honor my promises and generously reward each of you.

    ¡°I have sessfully assumed control of this body and assimted the memories of this Chen Fan. It¡¯s really not bad. I¡¯ve obtained a powerful upper-earth tier cultivation technique. Now, I¡¯ll impart it to you as a reward!¡±

    Yin Yang Schr and the others erupted in joy.

    Chen Fan looked at Yin Yang Schr and the others. A cold light surged in his eyes as he extended a finger, pointing at ck Fiend Bat.

    ck Fiend Bat trembled from excitement, his guard dropping to its lowest point.

    Suddenly, a fierce light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s gaze. He vanished and quickly reappeared in front of ck Fiend Bat.

    His finger was like a sharp sword, stabbing toward ck Fiend Bat¡¯s be.

    With his keen perception and high cultivation, Sword Venerable Ling Yun was the first to sense the danger. Reacting swiftly, he bellowed, ¡°Not good! Quickly retreat! ck Fiend Bat, quickly retreat! He¡¯s not Daoist Corpse Spirit! Damn it, he¡¯s not Daoist Corpse Spirit!¡±

    With lightning speed, Sword Venerable Ling Yun drew his sword, unleashing a powerful strike toward Chen Fan.

    ck Fiend Bat was still lost in euphoria, as he hadn¡¯t even imagined that Daoist Corpse Spirit would fail to possess Chen Fan.

    After all, Daoist Corpse Spirit was a super powerhouse at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm. He didn¡¯t have many rivals even across the entire Hong Domain. So, possessing a brat at the first level of the Core Formation realm should have been a trivial matter, right?

    But before ck Fiend Bat could react, Chen Fan''s finger pierced his forehead. In an instant, a devastating force shattered ck Fiend Bat''s soul into fragments.

    A look of disbelief crossed ck Fiend Bat''s face. He managed only a single word before his eyes dimmed. "You..."

    <i>C!</i>

    Simultaneously, Sword Venerable Ling Yun''s sword light sliced through the air like thunder, tearing apart the atmosphere with its terrifying force. Chen Fan felt the danger despite having advanced to the third level.

    However, he was not afraid.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    He was countless times stronger than he was half a month ago. He flipped his palm, throwing out a palm strike. His palm strike morphed into arge seal, shattering the thick sword light into fragments.

    ¡°How is this possible? How could Senior Daoist Corpse Spirit have failed in possessing him?¡±

    Yin Yang Schr and the others, now fully alert, were shocked to see ck Fiend Bat reduced to a mere corpse. They activated their auras, channeling their cultivation.

    ¡°Impossible! Daoist Corpse Spirit couldn¡¯t have failed!¡± Yin Yang Schr roared furiously, his expression twisted and hideous.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan didn¡¯t have the time to exin why Daoist Corpse Spirit''s possession had failed. Having neutralized Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s sword light, he rushed toward Yin Yang Schr with a swish.

    ¡°Yin Yang Schr, watch out!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun roared again. His sword intent erupted, and sword qi surged around him, sweeping out in all directions as he attacked Chen Fan.

    Yin Yang Schr sensed the aura of death enveloping him, so he snapped back to reality, regaining hisposure. Regardless of discussions, the undeniable truth remained: Daoist Corpse Spirit had failed to possess Chen Fan.

    ¡°Yin Yang Heaven Flipping Hand!¡±

    Cold killing intent surged from Yin Yang Schr. He channeled his cultivation furiously, his true primeval blossoming wildly. ck and white true primeval rolled and whistled in his palm as he unleashed a palm strike.

    The ck and white hues symbolized Yin and Yang, flipping heaven and earth, grinding away the airyer byyer.

    <i>Tss, tss, tss. Tss, tss, tss...</i>

    The onught seemed capable of upending heaven and earth itself. Terrifying killing power rushed through the air and dug down, aiming to kill Chen Fan.

    This was an earth tier martial skill of unparalleled might!

    ¡°You damned little bastard. How dare you trick us! Go to hell!¡± Young Master Xue Yi¡¯s face had turned ashen.

    When Chen Fan had emerged from the Mountain of Seals, every one of them had half-knelt on the ground, acting with utmost respect. Unexpectedly, they had been kneeling before Chen Fan.

    The realization fueled Young Master Xue Yi''s murderous intent further. The fresh blood wings on his back pped. The wings were like blood-colored des, slicing through space, producing mournful noises.

    ¡°Blood Wings Eighteen sh!¡±

    Two streaks of bloody light instantly broke through the air with unrivaled ferocity.

    Wanderer Hundred Poisons also struck out. A mass of poisonous qi rose from him, corroding the air with its terrifying toxicity. The atmosphere transformed into a sickening mixture of pus and water, dripping to the ground with a sizzle.

    ¡°Hundred Poison Palm!¡± With a flip of his palms, Wanderer Hundred Poisons summoned arge, gray handposed of poisonous qi, sweeping it across the sky and enveloping the area.

    ¡°Hahahaha, all of you are all bark and no bite. Break!¡± Chen Fan fearlesslyughed.

    He thrust his iron spear violently and shattered the Yin Yang Heaven Flipping Hand. He obliterated the two streaks of bloody light with a resounding boom with another horizontal sweep.

    Flipping his palm, Chen Fan ignored the terrifying poisonous qi and shed against the descending poisonous palm seal, smashing it into smithereens. ¡°Annihte!¡±

    Wanderer Hundred Poisons said with a cold smile, ¡°How bold of you, brat. You actually dared to sh head-on with my poisonous palm. Hmph, surely the poisonous qi has reached your heart by now!¡±

    He had absolute confidence in his poisonous martial arts.

    ¡°It¡¯s only a tiny bit of poison qi. Thinking it¡¯ll reach my heart? You¡¯re thinking too highly of yourself!¡±

    Chen Fan lunged toward Wanderer Hundred Poisons with lightning speed, his spear poised for attack.

 Chapter 418 - Intense Battle Underground

    <h4>Chapter 418 - Intense Battle Underground</h4>

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s spear thrust was so powerful that the space produced a furious roar.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An invisible force ravaged the area, producing a loud boom and rumbling tremors. Waves of white qi rippled outward, causing Wanderer Hundred Poisons to feel a sudden chill in his limbs and a numbing sensation creeping over his scalp.

    The tremendous force formed an absolute aura domain, binding the veteran third-level Core Formation realm expert. His heart quivered with a mixture of fear and disbelief.

    ¡°Sinful beast, you dare!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun roared furiously, looking horrified and shocked at Chen Fan¡¯s strength.

    Half a month ago, Chen Fan had been nothing but prey, hunted and driven into hiding within the sealednd. However, he now struck fear in their hearts.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun knew that he couldn¡¯t let Chen Fan kill Wanderer Hundred Poisons.

    Ling Yun''s sword gleamed with light as he swung it, releasing a sharp, sword-like qi that carried the weight of mountains.

    Despite sensing the impending danger, Chen Fan didn¡¯t retract his attack. He channeled his qi into his left hand, executing Northern Star Reaper Hand. It collided with the sword light.

    Next, he thrust his iron spear, and heaven and earth changed colors.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    The entire world shone with the light of dusk, and a haunting melody seemed to echo through space, as though the grim reapers themselves were orchestrating a symphony of death.

    Wanderer Hundred Poisons¡¯ expression changed greatly. Horror appeared in his eyes as he instinctively reached out, gripping the spear''s tip with his palm, only to have it swiftly destroyed by the overwhelming force.

    ¡°Go to hell, you little bastard!¡± A crazed look appeared in Wanderer Hundred Poisons¡¯ eyes. The pustules on his face suddenly burst open, transforming the pus into deadly arrows aimed at Chen Fan with a sinister hiss.

    The pustules on his face looked hideous, but they were likely the most poisonous things under the heavens. It was the site of the essence of his poisonous arts. Even high-level experts of the Core Formation realm risked severe injury or death from their venomous touch.

    However, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid of mere poisonous pus, as he had the Heaven Seizing Furnace. Even the most potent poisons would be rendered harmless, thanks to it.

    The transformation of pus into venomous arrows disgusted him beyond measure, though.

    Although Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid, he decided not to absorb someone that vile. Furrowing his brow, he gave up on killing Wanderer Hundred Poisons and instantly retreated.

    ¡°Let¡¯s join forces to kill him. The rest of you, activate the Great Destruction Formation and coordinate with us to kill this beast!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun roared.

    He shot forth, sword light sprinkling everywhere, filling heaven and earth. The space was full of cold, clear sword light.

    ¡°Sword Qi Condensing Mountain!¡± With a swift sh, his sword unleashed a tightlypressed beam of light, piercing forward. The sheer speed sliced through the air like ripples in water, disrupting the primeval qi in the surroundings.

    Within the sword light, faint outlines of mountains emerged, sharp and strong, merging into a divine mountain of des.

    To onlookers, it wasn''t merely a sword light but a formidable mountain hurtling toward them, seemingly unstoppable.

    Young Master Xue Yi also looked like a fiend, realizing that he couldn¡¯t defeat Chen FAn alone. They had to join forces, or they simply couldn¡¯t defeat him.

    The blood wings on his back separated from him and transformed into two bloody des that were as fine as a cicada¡¯s wing. As he brandished them, streaks of blood-colored de light filled the skies and descended like rain.

    ¡°Blood Wing sh!¡±

    Wanderer Hundred Poisons followed suit with his attack. His poison qi surged around him before he released it. It shrouded the skies, as sizzles and hisses rang in the area.

    ¡°Ubiquitous Poison!¡±

    Yin Yang Schr''s demeanor turned sinister as he unleashed his formidable yin-yang technique once again.

    ¡°Yin Yang Heaven Flipping Hand!¡±

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and his threepanions positioned themselves strategically, each unleashing their devastating attacks from different directions. Theirbined force surged like a tidal wave as if the world was closing in on Chen Fan.

    The minions also got to work, activating the Great Destruction Formation to manifest silhouettes of giant axes that attacked Chen Fan with the power to cleave mountains.

    The Great Destruction Formation¡¯s attacks weren¡¯t all that powerful since Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others were powering it now. Still, they were strong enough to injure or even kill experts at the third level.

    ¡°Good timing. Do you think mere numbers will save you? Let me make it clear: no matter how many of you demonic cultivators gather, death awaits you all here today!"

    With thunderous roars and amanding presence, Chen Fan channeled his qi vigorously. His golden core spun wildly, unleashing formidable strength.

    His illusory golden core and the eight primeval vessels emanated terrifying power, elevating Chen Fan''s aura to its peak.

    With his right hand, he thrust the iron spear; with his left hand, he unleashed palm strikes.

    His spear thrust resembled dragons, exuding immense force, while his palms seemed to move heaven and earth, akin to a stampede of ten thousand horses.

    Violent forces shed, echoing with deafening rumblings. Terrifying shockwaves swept out in all directions, making the entire underground world tremble violently. It seemed like it was about to copse.

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡± Chen Fan ignored the terrifying storm. He stood in the air, wielding the iron spear like an invincible god of war, exuding unmatched majesty.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the three others¡¯ expressions became ugly.

    They had joined hands and used the powers of the Great Destruction Formation to attack Chen Fan. Yet, they failed to achieve a positive result.

    Had it been any other expert at the third level, even without theirbined assault, any one of the four could have easily severely injured them, or even killed them. Their joint attack would have likely torn them apart instantly.

    ¡°This brat is strange. He¡¯s too strong; we definitely can¡¯t leave him alive. Everyone, don¡¯t hold back any longer. We have already exhausted much of our energy destroying the Mountain of Seals. If we can¡¯t end this brat quickly, the consequences will be dire!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun said, his eyes narrowing with a dangerous glint.

    He sensed immense danger from Chen Fan, instilling a sense of fear and apprehension within him

    As a fourth-level Core Formation realm expert and a sword cultivator, killing someone at the third level should have been a trivial matter for him. However, against Chen Fan, he encountered strange challenges.

    This was partly due to them spending half a month to destroy the Mountain of Seals and exhausting themselves.

    Otherwise, with theirbined strength and the might of the Great Destruction Formation, not even an expert at the fifth level would be safe.

 Chapter 419 - Killing Wanderer Hundred Poisons

    <h4>Chapter 419 - Killing Wanderer Hundred Poisons</h4>

    Chen Fan felt a weight in his heart.

    He had thought that being at the third level would be enough to deal with Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others. However, after exchanging a few blows, he realized that was far from the case.

    The Core Formation realm wasn¡¯t the Yuanfu realm; there was a seemingly unbridgeable chasm between each level.

    Even if he went all out, he would, at best, be as strong as a peak fourth-level expert.

    Thebined strength of Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others and the Great Destruction Formation was also at a simr level. If Chen Fan hadn¡¯t killed ck Fiend Bat, they wouldn¡¯t have fallen into a disadvantaged position so soon.

    <i>I overestimated my own strength. The Core Formation realm sure is different. </i>Chen Fan thought, his eyes shing with insight.

    ¡°If I want to kill them all, I will have to work on them one by one. If I take out another, the burden on me will ease."

    His gaze surveyed Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others, eventually settling on Wanderer Hundred Poisons as his next target.

    Wanderer Hundred Poisons was already heavily injured, so he only had about sixty to seventy percent of his power. Moreover, his expertise in poison arts posed no threat to Chen Fan. So, if he could kill him, he wouldn¡¯t feel as much pressure.

    Havinge to a decision, Chen Fan made his move, vanishing from his spot.

    ¡°Die!¡± An icy cold note resounded in space, echoing like the verdict of a death god. Wanderer Hundred Poisons sensed death walking toward him again.

    ¡°Hmph, you dare challenge me again, you little brat!¡± A vicious light shed across Wanderer Hundred Poisons¡¯ eyes as he unleashed his poison art, shrouding the heavens with toxic qi.

    ¡°Poison God Overturns the Sky!¡±

    With this attack, Wanderer Hundred Poisons unleashed his full power.

    Chen Fan had already injured him heavily, so hisbat strength had plummeted. Seeing Chen Fan aiming for him again, he unleashed a ferocious onught, fighting with reckless abandon and risking everything.

    He refused to sumb to Chen Fan''s attacks without a fight, so he unleashed everything he had.

    Ascending into the sky, Wanderer Hundred Poisons uttered his venomous threats. ¡°Damn it, damn it all! You cursed little bastard. I¡¯ll poison you to death! I refuse to believe you''re immune to poison. After I''m done with you, I''ll hunt down your entire n and use them to breed my poisonous insects!"

    Behind him, the silhouette of a poison god materialized, shrouded in darkness. Wisps of ck qi coiled around it like sinister serpents, while venomous cysts pulsed with a grotesque rhythm, emanating a sickening aura.

    These were the Ten Thousand Poison Divine Mines¡ªlethal bombs imbued with poison.

    If they burst, the surrounding five-kilometer radius would turn barren, devoid of any and all life forms, even rendering the soil poisonous

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace immediately materialized behind Chen Fan, enveloping and neutralizing the Ten Thousand Poison Divine Mine within its fiery confines. It was immediately refined and reduced to ashes.

    ¡°What?¡± Wanderer Hundred Poisons was stunned.

    Chen Fan had effortlessly dealt with his greatest strength¡ªthe Ten Thousand Poison Divine Mines.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s expression immediately sank, and he rushed toward Chen Fan. ¡°Not good, quickly go help Wanderer Hundred Poisons. We can¡¯t let him get killed by Chen Fan!¡±

    When Wanderer Hundred Poisons had executed Poison God Overturns the Sky, they had all retreated. Even they would have been in trouble if they had been caught up in that poisonous explosion.

    They had assumed that Chen Fan would be severely weakened even if he survived the terrifying poison art. They would then all strike at once and kill him in a sh.

    Unexpectedly, Wanderer Hundred Poisons¡¯ poisonous explosion waspletely ineffective. Instead, he found himself slipping into a dangerous situation.

    Would Chen Fan give them the chance to save Wanderer Hundred Poisons, though?

    His strength erupted in an instant, his arms were like they were made from steel tendons and iron bones. He used that power to brandish his iron spear, turning the spear into a weapon capable of destroying even the universe.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    Wanderer Hundred Poisons couldn¡¯t just sit back and wait for his death. Oveing his initial shock, he brought forth his qi, summoning arge, ancient dagger-ax into his grasp. [1]

    ¡°Myriad Poison Ancient Dagger-ax, turn the world into a toxic ocean and wipe out all living beings. I''ll annihte everything, and take the world down with me!"

    ¡°God-Killing Myriad Poison, kill the world!¡±

    The ancient dagger-ax sliced through the air, poison qi saturating the surroundings.

    Chen Fan remained unmoved, summoning even greater strength that left the space shaking.

    ¡°Hmph, it¡¯s useless. Today is the day you die. Destroy everything!¡±

    Chen Fan shed with Wanderer Hundred Poisons¡¯ ancient dagger-ax. A tremendous force erupted, pulverizing everything in its wake as the ancient weapon crumbled inch by inch.

    Energy capable of shattering mountains and splitting the earth burst forth, causing earthquakes that reverberated through time.

    Only that spear hurling toward Wanderer Hundred Poisons was left in his vision. It dominated his senses, rendering him incapable of coherent thought.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream rang out as cracks appeared on Wanderer Hundred Poisons as if he were a porcin doll. He spewed out countless blood mists as the light in his eyes faded and his primeval force dissipated.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan threw out another palm strike, turning Wanderer Hundred Poisons into meat paste.

    ¡°Damn it, go to hell!¡±

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun was a step toote and seethed with fury at Wanderer Hundred Poisons'' death. His visage contorted with rage as his sword qi surged, descending upon Chen Fan like Mt. Tai crashing down.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan sent this sword mountain flying back with a sweep of his spear.

    He moved the spear again, drawing a profound arc in the air, aiming straight for Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s throat. Startled by the sudden assault, Ling Yun swiftly raised his sword to defend himself. The tremendous force sent him flying back and made him spew blood.

    Suddenly, a giant ax descended on Chen Fan. The terrifying force cracked the earth open inch by inch, trying to decapitate Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    ¡°Break!¡±

    With unrivaled momentum, Chen Fan unleashed a punch. His surging strength transformed into a torrential river of energy. His fist, akin to a cannonball, collided with the giant ax.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Instantly, the ax splintered under the force, crumbling with a resounding boom.

    The bacsh caused the numerous minions operating the formation to spew blood, with some weaker cultivators even exploding into a blood mist.

    Young Master Xue Yi and Yin Yang Schr¡¯s expressions flickered, theirposure wavering as they regrouped with Sword Venerable Ling Yun, their gazes fixed on Chen Fan.

    The loss of Wanderer Hundred Poisons dealt a severe blow to them, a near-fatal setback.

    They all had to fight together and use the power of the Great Destruction Formation to fight Chen Fan to a draw.

    With Wanderer Hundred Poisons gone, their main force diminished, leaving them significantly weakened. It spelled grim tidings for their chances of victory.

    1. A dagger-ax is a type of polearm that was in use from the Longshan culture until the Han dynasty in China. It consists of a dagger-shaped de, mounted by its shank to a perpendicr wooden shaft. ?

 Chapter 420 - Wiping Out Everyone

    <h4>Chapter 420 - Wiping Out Everyone</h4>

    Chen Fan looked over to Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s group with a cold gaze and asserted, ¡°Two down already. Now, who''s next? Who wants to go first?¡±

    Having taken down Wanderer Hundred Poisons, he had essentially severed an arm of Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s crew, severely weakening them. He was fully confident in taking them all down now.

    Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others¡¯ faces turned ashen.

    They were great figures with years of notoriety. Being directly challenged by Chen Fan was a brutal blow, perhaps the greatest insult they had ever faced.

    ¡°You¡¯re too arrogant, little bastard. So what if you killed Wanderer Hundred Poisons and ck Fiend Bat? The rest of us can still ughter you!¡± Young Master Xue Yi said viciously.

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrow, his stern gaze falling on Young Master Xue Yi. ¡°Alright then, you''re up next. You¡¯re Young Master Xue Yi, right? I wonder what rtion you have with Sir Blood Shirt.¡±

    Young Master Xue Yi''s expression flickered, and he whispered, ¡°Third Brother.¡±

    ¡°Oh, so the two of you are brothers. Perfect, you can join him soon,¡± Chen Fan said, smiling, his voice rxed. It was as if Young Master Xue Yi was a dead man walking in his eyes.

    ¡°You arrogant bastard, I¡¯ll ughter you!¡± Young Master Xue Yi seethed, his rage nearly clouding his judgment. His eyes immediately turned bloodshot, and he waved his arms, unleashing two streaks of bloody light that tore through space.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡± Chen Fan scoffed, his expression dripping with disdain as he effortlessly shattered the bloody streaks with a palm strike.

    He strode forth with imposing steps, his aura rolling and surging, making his way over with the iron spear in hand.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    A great force enveloped the surroundings, trapping Sword Venerable Ling Yun and his group as if in a cage.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Young Master Xue Yi and Sword Venerable Ling Yun roared furiously, channeling their qi, releasing their powers crazily.

    ¡°Blood Wings Eighteen sh!¡± Young Master Xue Yi roared again, waving his arms. Two bloody des as thin as a cicada¡¯s wings whirled out. Streaks of terrifying bloody light erupted, sealing heaven and earth.

    ¡°Ovepping Mountains!¡± Sword Venerable Ling Yun also revolved his cultivation as he unleashed a barrage of sword light, forming oveppingyers like mountain ranges, their momentum unstoppable.

    ¡°Yin Yang Twin Dragons!¡± Yin Yang Schr¡¯s cultivation technique¡ªthe Yin Yang Grand Cultivation Technique¡ªerupted. ck and white true primeval rushed out from him, coalescing into two huge flood dragons, one ck and one white. They charged toward Chen Fan with unparalleled ferocity.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless, break!¡± Chen Fan struck out with his spear and his palm. His powers surged and erupted as if he were moving mountains, draining seas, or suppressing the starry sky. It could even smash the stars into smithereens.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The unleashed force rippled out, leaving countless terrifying marks on the ground.

    <i>Bleurgh, bleurgh...</i>

    Yin Yang Schr and Young Master Xue Yi couldn¡¯t help but spit out a mouthful of fresh blood. Although Sword Venerable Ling Yun did not spew blood, he was pushed back by the force, leaving deep footprints on the ground.

    "How about it? Still think you stand a chance against me?" Chen Fan asked indifferently.

    Young Master Xue Yi said indignantly, ¡°Damn it, little bastard, if we hadn¡¯t expended our energy to destroy the Mountain of Seals, you wouldn''t have stood a chance!"

    ¡°What a joke!¡± Chen Fanughed and said, ¡°Then, going by your logic, if it wasn¡¯t for your numerical advantage, I could have taken you all down one by one. You wouldn''t be standing here bbering.

    ¡°Enough talk. Your fate is sealed. No one can save you now, so allow me to deliver your death sentence one by one!¡±

    Chen Fan did not indulge in any further talks and charged forth once more.

    He went all out. Every one of his spear attacks and palm strikes had the power to move mountains, overturn seas, or blow up the starry sky.

    Tremendous waves surged through the space, apanied by thunderous explosions that reverberated like continuous gunfire.

    Young Master Xue Yi and the others were constantly pushed back, spewing blood repeatedly. Even the strongest of them, Sword Venerable Ling Yun, suffered rather heavy injuries.

    ¡°Young Master Xue Yi, this spear will end your life!¡± Like a roc, Chen Fan swooped down violently with a ferocious expression. His energy erupted and his aura descended, pressing down on Young Master Xue Yi, determined to kill him in one shot.

    Young Master Xue Yi also realized he was in a precarious situation. His true primeval surged, and the two bloody des in his hands burst with resplendent bloody light, shing toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    ¡°Annihte!¡± Chen Fan thrust his palm. A Northern Star Reaper Hand descended, shattering the bloody light with unstoppable momentum.

    ¡°No!¡± Young Master Xue Yi roared in anger and fear, summoning a bloody sea in a desperate attempt to stop Chen Fan''s attack.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s spear quickly destroyed the sea of blood, pierced through Young Master Xue Yi, and nailed him to the ground, extinguishing all of his vital signs.

    Young Master Xue Yi has fallen!

    ¡°Third one!¡±

    Chen Fan turned around and pounced toward Sword Venerable Ling Yun and Yin Yang Schr.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Yin Yang Schr finally couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. His cultivation erupted violently, and he took the initiative to charge toward Chen Fan. ¡°Quickly leave, Sword Venerable Ling Yun. I¡¯ll buy time for you. I only ask for you to escape and find a stronger expert within the holy cult to avenge us!

    ¡°This brat cannot be allowed to live. He''ll pose a significant threat to the holy cult in the future. We must get an expert of the holy cult to hunt him down, even if a powerhouse in the Divine Nascent realm has to take action...¡±

    Yin Yang Schr pushed his Yin Yang Grand Cultivation Technique to its limit. He conjured a spinning Taiji pattern above him, exerting a formidable force that locked down the space.

    ¡°Leave! Sword Venerable Ling Yun, quickly leave!¡±

    He poured out all his strength. Yet, before he couldunch his attack, his power and voice abruptly ceased.

    <i>Ugh...</i>

    An ancient, unadorned iron spear shot past his neck. A head flew into the air, fresh blood spurting into the sky, then fell straight down.

    ¡°Did you really think you could stop me alone? Overestimating yourself!¡±

    Chen Fan walked past Yin Yang Schr¡¯s corpse and rushed toward Sword Venerable Ling Yun.

    ¡°You won¡¯t get away. I promised you today would be yourst. Did you doubt my word?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice made Sword Venerable Ling Yun shudder all over as Chen Fan walked toward him like a devil.

    ¡°Damn it, I¡¯ll fight you to the end!¡±

    Anger got to Sword Venerable Ling Yun¡¯s head. His expression was twisted; his aura blew up suddenly. Sword light shed, and sword qi swept out. Mournful noises resounded in the air.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you people weren¡¯t my match even when you joined forces, so what can you do alone? Wanna fight me to the death or something? Are you even worthy?¡±

    With a stab from Chen Fan, the winds and clouds rolled back. All the sword qi shattered, turning into nothing.

    Chen Fan vanished from his spot and reappeared in front of Sword Venerable Ling Yun as if he had teleported.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    As he thrust his spear again with earth-shattering might, all energies in front of it became useless, smashed to bits.

    Looking down at the iron spear sticking out of him, Sword Venerable Ling Yun raised his head with difficulty, meeting Chen Fan¡¯s icy gaze, and uttered his final words, ¡°The holy cult... will avenge us!¡±

 Chapter 421 - Mission Accomplished

    <h4>Chapter 421 - Mission Aplished</h4>

    ¡°Avenge you?¡±

    Chen Fan yanked out his iron spear, and Sword Venerable Ling Yun copsed to the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust.

    Chen Fan curled his lips and said, ¡°Anyone who crosses my path will meet their end. You demonic cultivators have no morals at all. All of you deserve to die!¡±

    "Run! Hurry! That man is a demon!"

    After Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others¡¯ deaths, the morale of their minions plummeted like a falling mountain. Their faces were filled with horror as they frantically ran outside, wishing they had an additional leg to run faster.

    ¡°Minions like you are also thinking of escaping?¡± Chen Fan''s tone held no hint of mercy as he vanished from sight.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    The sound of his spear piercing them echoed in quick session.

    Already terrified, the minions were powerless to resist Chen Fan''s attacks, their lives swiftly snuffed out by his relentless attacks.

    Several minions at the first-level Core Formation realm turned frantic when they saw Chen Fan had blocked the way out and immediately roared viciously.

    ¡°Ahhh... fight him to the death, damn it!¡±

    ¡°Right, since we can¡¯t escape, let¡¯s join forces and fight him to the death!¡±

    But their cries fell on deaf ears as Chen Fan mercilessly cut them down. Big, bloody holes appeared on their foreheads as they fell in battle, turning into ash.

    ¡°You... if you kill us, the holy cult will definitely not let you go...¡± They spat out curses and threats even in their final moments.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± The air filled with miserable screams as one by one, Chen Fan wiped out all the minions. None escaped his wrath.

    ¡°Very good.¡± Chen Fan surveyed the surroundings. He put his iron spear away, smiled, and said, ¡°I''ve wlesslypleted my holy disciple mission. Not only did I kill Sword Venerable Ling Yun and his merry band of demonic cultivators, but I also annihted Daoist Corpse Spirit. What a huge achievement!

    Chen Fan felt a wave of joy and relief wash over him, knowing he had thwarted Yin Yang Schr and others'' sinister ns.

    If they had seeded in carrying out their ns to break free Daoist Corpse Spirit, the entire Great Chu Empire, or even the entire Hong Domain, would have faced a cmity.

    What would have happened to his family and fellow nsmen?

    <i>The only issue now is identifying the traitor within the sect, though there are only a few suspects to choose from. I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll slip up somehow in the future. When I return to the sect, I''ll feign ignorance.</i> Chen Fan¡¯s mind raced, his eyes narrowing in thought.

    Knowing that there was a traitor, likely holding a high position within the sect, troubled Chen Fan deeply.

    Young Master Xue Yi had imed that it was Wei Buyu, so Chen Fan directly excluded him as a suspect.

    That left only the sect leader, and the merit elder as potential traitors.

    <i>I shouldn¡¯t be in a hurry to get back. I still have over a month left. Let¡¯s use that to cultivate.</i>

    If the traitor learned that Sword Venerable Ling Yun and the others had failed to kill him, they could send an even stronger demonic path expert to intercept him on his way back. Thus, he needed to be even stronger.

    Bringing out the pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water, Chen Fan submerged himself in it.

    The intense energy surged through him, turning his insides upside down and making him feel pangs of pain.

    He remained still, revolving the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to absorb the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water¡¯s energy to strengthen his physique.

    He wanted to use the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water to raise his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the twelfthyer¡ªthe peak of the Divine Strength realm.

    As time flew by, half a month passed in a blur.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With a thunderous roar, Chen Fan felt a surge of power envelop him as his Myriad Elephants Divine Art finally reached its peak, the twelfthyer of the Divine Strength realm.

    <i>Very good. With my overall strength, I can even fight someone at the fifth level. </i>A fierce determination shone in Chen Fan''s eyes.

    Still, he was not satisfied, so he continued cultivating.

    Three dayster, a formidable aura emanated from Chen Fan, capable of intimidating even those at the fifth level.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes snapped open, and he stood up. He withdrew his aura, his gaze deep.

    <i>Excellent! Now that I¡¯ve cultivated three illusory golden cores, I can bring out thrice my usualbat strength. I don¡¯t have to fear even experts at the fifth level now! </i>

    Chen Fan had spent thest three days cultivating the Nine Illusory Golden Core Secret Art, transforming another two illusory primeval vessels into illusory golden cores. With the ability to bring out triple hisbat strength and his powerful physique, he could fight and kill those at the fifth level.

    <i>I still have a bit more than two weeks left. Guess it¡¯s time to return to the sect toplete my mission.</i>

    As he stood up, the sound of frying beans rang from his head to toe. He smiled faintly and moved. Soon, he emerged from the underground world.

    He didn¡¯t hide himself now. He flew across the Myriad Deaths Mountains openly, rming some hidden evil spirits on the way that proceeded to attack him, but he blew them all to bits.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan sped through space, creating loud booms as he quickly exited the Myriad Deaths Mountains.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    His figure flickered, wings beating several times as he traversed thousands of kilometers in a sh. Three dayster, he arrived at the Spring Autumn Sect, his auramanding.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was more prosperous than ever, bustling with activity. Every inner and outer sect disciple worked hard, aiming to excel and stand out among their peers.

    Elite disciples came and went as well. Theypleted all kinds of missions and bought various treasures, striving to do even better.

    Core disciples were even busier, hoping to advance into the Core Formation realm and rise to the sky, bing holy disciples.

    As for the holy disciples, they were free and easy, rarely seen around in the sect.

    As Chen Fan touched down, his immense aura immediately drew attention.

    ¡°Who is he?¡± asked a newly admitted inner sect disciple, their voice trembling. Theirplexion turned white from fear as they felt Chen Fan¡¯s powerful aura.

    ¡°Shh, lower your voice. That¡¯s Chen Fan, a Core Formation realm expert. He is our twenty-fourth holy disciple.¡±

    ¡°Go inform Xie Feng, quick. Chen Fan has returned afterpleting his holy disciple mission. My goodness, his cultivation is advancing at an rming rate; he''s already surpassed the first level. How is this possible? It''s only been...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire inner sect erupted into a frenzy.

    Many of the inner sect disciples¡¯ expressions flickered. They quickly left one after another after catching a glimpse of Chen Fan to report his movements to the executives of their respective organizations.

    ¡°Chen Fan,e to me!¡±

    Soon after he returned to the Spring Autumn Sect, Sect Leader Feng Baiyu¡¯s will descended imposingly. Chen Fan''s expression darkened.

    Aware that Feng Baiyu had summoned him to inquire about his mission''s progress, Chen Fan couldn''t shake the suspicion that the sect leader might be the traitor. Despite his inner conflict, he knew he had no choice but toply.

    Chen Fan shot into the sky like lightning, making his way toward the heart of the sect.

 Chapter 422 - The Sect Leaderâ€™s Words

    <h4>Chapter 422 - The Sect Leader¡¯s Words</h4>

    Chen Fan flew toward his destination, moving at an incredibly high speed. Soon, he reached the depths of the sect where he saw Feng Baiyu, the sect leader.

    ¡°Sect Leader.¡±

    Feng Baiyu seemed to radiate a divine light. When he spoke, his voice resonated with purity and authority, akin to the brilliance of the sun itself. It also sounded like the voice of truth that soothed the mind and roused reverence.

    ¡°You¡¯re back. It seems you¡¯vepleted the mission I assigned you.¡±

    Chen Fan stood there with his head slightly lowered and said neither subserviently nor arrogantly, ¡°Reporting to Sect Leader, I have indeedpleted my holy disciple mission.¡±

    ¡°Well done, tell me about it.¡±

    Without dy, Chen Fan recounted the sequence of events he had experienced.

    "Sect Leader," he continued, presenting the heads of Sword Venerable Ling Yun, Young Master Xue Yi, Wanderer Hundred Poisons, and others as evidence.

    ¡°Very good, wonderful!¡± Feng Baiyu eximed, visibly pleased as he inspected the trophies. ¡°These are indeed the heads of those notorious individuals."

    ¡°These peoplemitted all sorts of atrocities in the jianghu, earning infamy throughout thend. Many orthodox experts have tried hunting them down, but these people are formidable and incredibly cunning, escaping on numerous asions. They have even killed many orthodox path experts, including a Core Formation realm elder from our sect.[1]

    ¡°You did well, killing them all. Chen Fan, you¡¯ve performed marvelously andpleted this mission perfectly. You¡¯re more than qualified to be our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s twenty-fourth holy disciple.¡± Feng Baiyu sounded very happy.

    ¡°This is something I ought to do.¡±

    Feng Baiyu waved his hand and said, ¡°No need to be humble. When I assigned you this mission, I expected you to fail to kill these demonic path cultivators. Merely uncovering their intentions would have counted aspleting your mission.

    ¡°However, you exceeded my expectations, aplishing something unthinkable. It''s a delightful surprise to witness such an achievement. Very good. I¡¯m pleased that another one-in-a-century genius has appeared in our sect.¡±

    ¡°You''re too kind, Sect Leader," Chen Fan replied cautiously, unsure of Feng Baiyu''s true intentions.

    Of course, he did not spill a word about Daoist Corpse Spirit or the spy in the sect.

    After all, Daoist Corpse Spirit was an ancient demonic path expert. Despite being under suppression for three thousand years and standing on hisst legs, he still wasn¡¯t someone a Core Formation realm cultivator could handle.

    To reveal such information would raise suspicions, potentially leading to investigation or, if Feng Baiyu was ruthless, the use of soul-searching techniques to uncover all his secrets.

    While one should refrain from harboring ill will toward others, one should always have their guard up against others.

    Moreover, he and the sect leaders belonged to different camps, to begin with.

    Unaware of Chen Fan''s thoughts, Feng Baiyu continued, ¡°Chen Fan, with the wlesspletion of your assigned task, you are officially the twenty-fourth holy disciple of our Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Of course, being a holy disciple signifies more than mere status. It also represents that you are one of the potential sessors of the Spring Autumn Sect.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Chen Fan was shocked. He looked up at him and asked, ¡°What do you mean by that, Sect Leader? Isn¡¯t Duan Jingtian the sessor to the Spring Autumn Sect?¡±

    ¡°Haha, you¡¯re mistaken.¡± Feng Baiyuughed lightly and continued, ¡°All holy disciples in our sect are potential sessors. The position isn''t fixed. The one among you twenty-four holy disciples to reach the Divine Nascent realm first will be the next leader. Does that rify things?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°I understand.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan,¡± called the Sect Leader again.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Chen Fan became a little more respectful. He needed to maintain the necessary etiquette.

    ¡°Now, I shall make a decree and formally appoint you as a holy disciple in the presence of all.¡±

    Feng Baiyu waved his arm. A gentle energy lifted Chen Fan, and the scenery in front of his eyes quickly changed.

    Simultaneously, the powerful sound of a horn echoed throughout the Spring Autumn Sect.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    ¡°The Holy Prestige Horn! Someone is being promoted to holy disciple. All grand elders must attend the ceremony. It''s been ages since west witnessed such a grand event."

    Deep inside the Spring Autumn Sect, on the private cultivation mountains, numerous grand elders with powerful auras came to their senses from their immersed cultivation. Their eyes flickered, and their figures quickly blurred as they soared through the air like lightning.

    On one of the cultivation mountains, Feng Tianxia narrowed his eyes slightly and muttered, ¡°The Holy Prestige Horn. That brat Chen Fan has passed the holy disciple test, as expected. This summons requires all grand elders and holy disciples to witness the appointment of the new holy disciple by the sect leader."

    At Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s headquarters, Xie Feng, who had taken over Yuan Kun¡¯s position, had a twisted and hideous expression. His aura erupted uncontrobly, sending chairs flying and shattering valuable porcin.

    ¡°Damn it, that damnable bastard Chen Fan has be a holy disciple. We''re all obliged to attend the ceremony. Damn it, damn it. Why didn¡¯t that damned little bastard die!¡±

    A look of joy appeared on Wei Buyu¡¯s face. He didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to reallyplete his mission. ¡°It¡¯s the Holy Prestige Horn. Looks like Chen Fan haspleted his mission and returned.¡±

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Swiftly, many grand elders and holy disciples ascended into the sky, converging toward the central battlefield of the Spring Autumn Sect. Their formidable auras flooded the space.

    The central battlefield had been closed since the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition ended; now, it was open again.

    Appointing a holy disciple was a grand asion, no less important than the martial artspetition. It signified that another extraordinarily talented disciple had appeared in the sect and had advanced into the Core Formation realm.

    Many disciples in the inner sect rushed toward the central battlefield to witness this event.

    ¡°As expected of a grand sect event. Look at all the grand elders and the rarely seen holy disciples making their appearances."

    Many inner sect disciples sensed the powerful auras descending and whispered among themselves.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Sect Leader Feng Baiyu brought Chen Fan with him, captivating the attention of the gathered crowd.

    ¡°Sect Leader.¡±

    ¡°Sect Leader.¡±

    Irrespective of their rank¡ªbe they grand elders, holy disciples, or the thousands of inner sect members¡ªeveryone bowed their heads respectfully, offering greetings to Feng Baiyu.

    Many inner sect disciples were overwhelmed with excitement since this was their first time seeing Sect Leader Feng Baiyu¡¯s true appearance.

    If holy disciples were said to be rarely seen, then the sect leader of the Spring Autumn Sect was even more so.

    For many, encountering Feng Baiyu even once in their lifetime was a distant dream.

    1. Ripped from WW Glossary, Jianghu(½­ºþ) literally trantes as ¡°Rivers and Lakes¡±, but figuratively refers to the ¡°underground world of martial arts¡±. A section of society consisting of martial artists, gangsters, thieves, beggars, prostitutes, merchants, entertainers, and anyone else wanting to operate outside of mainstream society or in the gray area of thew. ?

 Chapter 423 - Becoming a Holy Disciple

    <h4>Chapter 423 - Bing a Holy Disciple</h4>

    When Feng Baiyu appeared with Chen Fan, heads bowed in respect all around.

    ¡°Sect Leader!¡±

    ¡°Greetings to Sect Leader.¡±

    ¡°Mmm.¡± Feng Baiyu nodded in acknowledgment. His voice reverberated through the space as he said, ¡°I trust you all know that disciple Chen Fan haspleted the holy disciple mission I assigned him. Henceforth, he is the twenty-fourth holy disciple of our sect.¡±

    His voice rumbled like thunder in the crowd¡¯s minds, even though they were already aware. Yet, hearing it directly from Feng Baiyu fueled their excitement.

    ¡°Pass on my decree.¡± Feng Baiyu suddenly said.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Several grand elders bowed, ¡°Yourmand, Sect Leader. We shall act ordingly.¡±

    ¡°Henceforth, Chen Fan is a holy disciple, rewarded with five hundred thousand primeval stones, ten treasures, and granted an independent mountain peak in Heavenly Vein Mountains.¡±

    ¡°Understood!¡±

    ¡°Very good!¡± Feng Baiyu nodded, his gaze sweeping over the assembly. ¡°I urge you all to diligently cultivate and advance into the Core Formation realm to be the twenty-fifth, the twenty-sixth, or further holy disciples of our sect.¡±

    Feng Baiyu¡¯s voice contained a magical power, stirring emotions within the inner sect disciples in the Yuanfu realm. They trembled and roared in unison, ¡°We¡¯ll sincerely follow Sect Leader¡¯s teachings!¡±

    ¡°Good.¡± Feng Baiyu left behind a single word before disappearing.

    The entire area quieted down.

    Chen Fannded on the ground. Wherever he looked, heads lowered, avoiding his gaze.

    Having been publicly appointed by the sect leader, Chen Fan became an official holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, officially written in the records.

    ¡°Have you been well, Merit Elder?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell on the merit elder, filled with obvious killing intent and hostility. ¡°I owe you my gratitude for the Divine Stone of Life. Without it, I wouldn¡¯t have progressed so quickly, andpleting the mission would have been a challenge. It¡¯s even more miraculous than any other tonic. Hahahaha.¡±

    ¡°You!¡± The merit elder almost choked on his words, infuriated by Chen Fan''s remarks.

    He had cheated Chen Fan out of a massive sum of contribution points by selling him the contaminated Divine Stone of Life, hoping to kill two birds with one stone. When Duan Jingtian emerged from his punishment, the merit elder anticipatedvish rewards.

    Unexpectedly, his n backfired, and the stone propelled Chen Fan to the third level in record time. Chen Fan''s sarcastic thanks twisted the knife further, a reminder of his own mistakes.

    Chen Fan intended to provoke the merit elder. After all, his quick breakthrough to the third level was due to him refining Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence.

    The merit elder barked, ¡°You used a demonic stone to progress your cultivation. It proves you are a great demon, a follower of the demonic path! I¡¯ll suggest to the sect leader to immediately lock you up, strip you of your status as a holy disciple, and force out the demonic qi within you!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, his demeanor mboyant. He smiled coldly and said, ¡°Then you best hurry. The sect leader hasn¡¯t gone far. Dy any longer, and you might miss your chance to plead your case.¡±

    ¡°You¡ª¡±

    Chen Fan interrupted, his patience wearing thin. ¡°Merit Elder, I have no interest in trading barbs with you here. I will remember your ¡®favor.¡¯ After I kill Duan Jingtian and be the next sect leader of the Spring Autumn Sect, that will be the day you die!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, you little beast, thinking of killing Duan Jingtian? You? Stop your daydreaming. You should know better than to boast so shamefully!¡± The Merit Elderughed disdainfully, utterly unconvinced of Chen Fan''s capabilities to challenge Duan Jingtian, let alone lead the sect.

    Chen Fan saw no point in further verbal sparring. ¡°We''ll see who''sughing in a year and a half. In any case, an old coot like you only has a year or two left to live anyway.¡±

    An icy killing intent shed across the merit elder¡¯s eyes. Just as he was about to leave, he turned his head around and said viciously to Chen Fan, ¡°Just you wait, you little beast. It will be the day you die in a year.¡±

    Chen Fan remained silent, swiftly joining Wei Buyu as they soared toward the heart of the sect.

    With the sect leader''s decree in ce, Chen Fan now held the esteemed position of holy disciple and had the privilege of selecting his personal cultivation peak.

    Countless inner sect disciples exchanged their thoughts, their emotions running high.

    ¡°How truly surprising. In just eighteen months, an outer sect disciple has ascended to the lofty rank of a holy disciple, his statusparable to a grand elder of the sect. It¡¯s like a dream.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Who could have predicted that Chen Fan would not only withstand Heaven¡¯s Alliance''s pressures but also forge ahead, oveing every obstacle and advancing to the third level of the Core Formation realm? He''s be a legend in his own right.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is progressing too quickly. It''s anyone''s guess who will emerge victorious in his showdown with Senior Brother Duan Jingtian

    ¡°......¡±

    More than ny-nine percent of the crowd present were Chen Fan¡¯s seniors. When Chen Fan had been a mere outer disciple, they were already inner sect disciples.

    Yet, in just a year and a half, Chen Fan had risen from an outer sect Qi Grandmaster to a holy disciple¡ªa feat unheard of in the annals of Spring Autumn Sect history.

    Among the crowd, a slightly plump elite disciple couldn''t help but feel a twinge of pride.

    ¡°I once shared a wall with a holy disciple!¡±

    He was Pan Yuansheng, an elite disciple and the first person to greet Chen Fan when thetter first entered the inner sect. However, he had run away after hearing Chen Fan¡¯s name. [1]

    ¡°How unexpected. It hasn¡¯t been long since we were promoted to elite disciples, but he¡¯s already be a holy disciple.¡±

    Lu Yun, Mu Chen, Wei Rufeng, and some other disciples who entered the inner sect with Chen Fan all hadplicated gazes.

    They used to be top figures in the outer sect. Chen Fan simply did not enter their eyes, until he made a ssh at the Outer Sect Grand Competition and disyed godly might at the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land.

    The gap between them and Chen Fan hadn¡¯t been too big then; after entering the inner sect, Chen Fan was like a true dragon entering the sea. His cultivation progressed rapidly, improving by leaps and bounds.

    That initial small gap had already widened to a chasm that would be near impossible to close in their entire lives.

    1. Appeared in 186. ?

 Chapter 424 - Duan Jingtian Astounded

    <h4>Chapter 424 - Duan Jingtian Astounded</h4>

    A group exuding powerful auras soared through the clouds. They were all holy disciples and their cultivation levels were remarkably high.

    ¡°What do you guys think?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a little unbelievable. He entered the Core Formation realm three months ago, and I sensed he was at the third level now. That¡¯s just... too fast. I can¡¯t believe it," remarked a disciple d in white, his toneden with astonishment.

    They were all veteran holy disciples promoted a decade or two ago. Yet, they were only at the third or fourth level, so they understood all too well the challenges of advancing in the Core Formation realm.

    But then there was Chen Fan.

    He had made astonishing progress, advancing from the first level to the third level. Such a feat could simply cause someone to die from the shock.

    ¡°It should be because of the Divine Stone of Life. You all heard what he said earlier,¡± said another holy disciple.

    A disciple surrounded by crackling lightning and thunder interjected, ¡°But we all know about that contaminated stone. It¡¯s tainted with evil qi. Even we are helpless about it. Just how did he remove the evil qi?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps the high elder helped him?¡± Someone threw in a guess.

    ¡°It¡¯s possible. He''s a pawn the senior elder ns to use against Duan Jingtian. Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation is also progressing rapidly. If Chen Fan doesn¡¯te across some kind of fortuitous encounter, catching up to Duan Jingtian would be nearly impossible," another disciple said.

    ¡°Forget it. Whether it''s Duan Jingtian or Chen Fan, they both have a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse supporting them. Comparing ourselves to them is futile," remarked the holy disciple skilled in lightning cultivation, his expression somber.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had two Divine Nascent realm experts. One of them supported Duan Jingtian, while the other supported Chen Fan. With such formidable figures behind them, these holy disciples stood no chance inparison.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian is facing a wall as punishment, but Chen Fan has be a holy disciple. This must be a really heavy blow to the alliance, no? But it¡¯s also good news to us.¡±

    ¡°Even if Heaven''s Alliance suffers setbacks, as long as Duan Jingtian is alive, his organization will always be insufferably arrogant.¡± The lightning-attributed holy disciple frowned and said, ¡°I''m certain Duan Jingtian will explode onto the scene in a year or two. I know him very well. Once he advances to the Divine Nascent realm, he''ll dominate, unrivaled under the heavens. We won''t stand a chance against him. It''ll be submission or death.¡±

    ¡°Then what should we do?¡±

    ¡°Maybe we should ally ourselves with Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and observe a bit longer. He has the high elder backing him, after all. We''ll gauge his progress in theing months.¡± The lightning-attributed holy disciple waved his hand and continued, ¡°Of course, we can probe him secretly and see how he reacts. How about congratting him on his promotion?¡±

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do that.¡±

    ......

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan and Wei Buyu had already arrived at the Heavenly Vein Mountains.

    ¡°Chen Fan, did you sustain any injuries during this mission?¡±

    Chen Fan had decided not to tell Wei Buyu about the spy. ¡°Rest assured, Master. I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then. You¡¯re now an officially recorded holy disciple. Your status isparable to a grand elder, but don¡¯t getcent. Duan Jingtian will be out in seven months. He¡¯ll definitelyunch a quick blow at you then.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. I¡¯ll cultivate well in these seven months. I¡¯ll give him a huge surprise when hees out,¡± Chen Fan said, sounding very confident.

    He had the Divine Stone of Life and the Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine energy. If he refined them, his cultivation would skyrocket to an unimaginable level quickly.

    Thus, he wasn¡¯t afraid of Duan Jingtian. On the contrary, he eagerly anticipated their inevitable confrontation and regretted not being able to face him sooner.

    Chen Fan picked out a mountain peak as his privatend. He didn¡¯t need to build a residence here; one had already been built on every mountain peak. With daily upkeep taken care of by attendants, he could settle in without dy.

    Yet, despite the convenience, solitude gnawed at his heart. Shaking his head, Chen Fan focused on the tasks ahead.

    Given his strength, he could fight a fifth-level expert, but none would be weaklings. Everyone had their own means; defeating or even killing them would not be easy.

    ¡°I can now cultivate in peace. With so many cultivation resources, I would be trash if I can¡¯t raise my cultivation!¡±

    A sharp light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Suddenly, he waved his hand, and arge amount of primeval stones flew out.

    Arranged in a precise formation, the stones emanated powerful qi, taking on shapes reminiscent of humans, dragons, tigers, and more. Chen Fan had ced these primeval stones ording to the principles of a formation. As the powerful primeval qi enveloped him, he experienced a serene, almost dreamy sensation.

    Cultivation was also a kind of pleasure, a very powerful one at that. It could easily intoxicate cultivators, rendering them unable to break free.

    Driven by Chen Fan, all the primeval qi merged into his meridians, generating fiery sparks as they rubbed against his true primeval essence, refining his flesh and blood.

    Advancing a single level in the Core Formation realm proved immensely challenging, especially true for Chen Fan, as he practiced an unparalleled divine art. The energy contained within ten thousand primeval stones merely equated to a drop in the ocean, barely making a ripple.

    Thankfully, Chen Fan didn¡¯tck primeval stones. He used them up in batches of a hundred thousand, which would shock anyone if they found out about it.

    ......

    At the ck Wind Cliff, Duan Jingtian sat cross-legged on the ground, facing the vast sea of clouds. He was also cultivating, circting his qi inside him.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Suddenly, a wind-breaking noise rang out, and a figure descended.

    After a while, Duan Jingtian withdrew his cultivation, opened his eyes, and nced at the visitor. ¡°What brings you here, Feng Tianxia? To poke fun at the situation I¡¯m in?¡±

    The visitor was Tianxia Society¡¯s leader, Feng Tianxia.

    Feng Tianxia said indifferently, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking things. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re unaware of the recent developments. Allow me to enlighten you. Chen Fan is now in the Core Formation realm, haspleted his holy disciple mission, and is now a holy disciple, personally appointed by the sect leader in front of everyone.¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression remained the same, but an unusual look shed deep in his eyes. He said, ¡°That¡¯s no big deal! He took first ce at the martial artspetition and obtained the Extreme Profound Elixir. If he used all that, bing a holy disciple is nothing surprising.¡±

    Feng Tianxia smiled and said, ¡°Of course, that is indeed nothing to freak out over, but what if I told you that he¡¯s already at the third level? What do you think of it now?¡±

    ¡°What!¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression finally changed.

 Chapter 425 - Offer Allegiance

    <h4>Chapter 425 - Offer Allegiance</h4>

    ¡°What!¡±

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s words had shocked Duan Jingtian. He had known about Chen Fan bing a Core Formation realm expert. After all, Chen Fan¡¯s golden core tribtion was too terrifying.

    The entire Spring Autumn Sect was affected. Even when Duan Jingtian was repenting at ck Wind Cliff, he had sensed the unusual atmosphere.

    So, Chen Fan advancing to the Core Formation realm was within his expectations.

    If he had failed despite obtaining the Extreme Profound Elixir, then it would have meant that Chen Fan was too useless.

    However, to think that he was already at the third level. This news was profoundly shocking to him.

    How long has it been since Chen Fan advanced to the Core Formation realm?

    Only three months!

    And in that short span, he had reached the third level. It was as if he was sitting on a rocket and his destinations were cultivation levels. Even Duan Jingitian himself could achieve such an astounding feat.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder he managed toplete his holy disciple mission...¡±

    An unusual look shed across Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes, along with a deep killing intent.

    Chen Fan''s growth was rming, making him uneasy

    Who knew if he would ascend to the sixth level realm within another three months?

    What about a yearter?

    ¡°Hoho, it seems you also feel threatened by Chen Fan.¡± Feng Tianxia smiled faintly seeing the look on Duan Jingtian¡¯s face.

    Duan Jingtian said coldly, ¡°Speak, why did youe find me? Surely, it''s not just to share this."

    ¡°I¡¯m here to offer my allegiance," Feng Tianxia announced, his words causing a stir within Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Allegiance?¡± A cryptic expression crossed Duan Jingtian''s face. He chuckled and said, ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Feng Tianxia didn''t beat around the bush. "I''ll be frank. I don¡¯t believe Chen Fan will be your match in a year and a half. You are pretty much sure to be the next sect leader.

    ¡°I know your nature; you''re the type to demand submission or deliver death. When you gain control over the Spring Autumn Sect, bloodshed is inevitable. My Tianxia Society wants to escape that fate.

    ¡°So, I''m here to offer my loyalty, pledging to stand by your side. I can make a move on Chen Fan and kill him!¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Duan Jingtianughed and replied, ¡°Not bad at all, Feng Tianxia. A wise man submits to the circumstances. Truthfully speaking, I¡¯m not worried about that brat Chen Fan at all. He will die when my punishment ends!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t get careless, Duan Jingtian. I¡¯ll tell you the truth. That brat only managed to improve so quickly because he obtained a Divine Stone of Life.¡±

    ¡°Divine Stone of Life? That useless stone contaminated by evil qi?¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes flickered.

    Feng Tianxia nodded and said, ¡°Right. The merit elder''s gesture backfired. Instead of impressing you, he ended up helping Chen Fan. The high elder likely helped Chen Fan get rid of the evil qi.¡±

    ¡°Looks like the merit elder had good intentions but did more harm than good,¡± Duan Jingtian mused aloud, his eyes flickering.

    Feng Tianxia said, ¡°Thanks to the divine stone and the high elder¡¯s support, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation will progress rapidly. By the time you get out, it¡¯s hard to say how strong he would be. I suppose you don¡¯t wish to let such a potential threat flourish unchecked?¡±

    ¡°Feng Tianxia, you¡¯re saying all that to make me ept your offer of allegiance, right?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°Fine, then. Should you eliminate Chen Fan, your contribution to my rise as sect leader will be duly recognized. At that time, you¡¯ll get your fair share of benefits,¡± Duan Jingtian said with a smile.

    Feng Tianxia replied, ¡°It¡¯s also my honor to work for you, but I have to ask for you to bestow upon me some treasures to raise my cultivation. I¡¯m already at the peak of the fourth level. I''ll have greater confidence in dealing with Chen Fan once I am at the fifth level.¡±

    <i>p, p, p, p...</i>

    Duan Jingtian pped andughed. ¡°I see. Fine, I¡¯ll gift you some treasures to offer you a helping hand.¡±

    He waved his arm, and several streaks of light flew out, emitting powerful energy fluctuations. Every one of those treasures could make Core Formation realm experts go crazy and fight for them.

    ¡°Take it. I hope you won¡¯t disappoint me. I¡¯ll be waiting for your news,¡± Duan Jingtian said indifferently, acting like these treasures were nothing but garbage to him.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll challenge Chen Fan to a life-and-death battle after I advance to the fifth level. I¡¯ll make sure to kill him!¡±

    Feng Tianxia put the treasures away with an excited look on his face.

    ......

    <i>Crackle.</i>

    Explosions rang out continuously.

    Countless strands of primeval qi entwined above Chen Fan, forming dragons and elephants. The dragons and elephants intertwined; dragons were humans, and elephants were qi. Humans and qi joined as one, bringing about a multitude of changes.

    Chen Fan¡¯sprehension reached a profound, unfathomable realm. The golden core inside him spun rapidly, his aura growing increasingly stronger.

    <i>Puchi, puchi, puchi...</i>

    With each burst, gusts of wind erupted, sending gravel flying in all directions.

    A month had passed since Chen Fan''s return to the sect.

    He had been staying at his cultivation mountain,pletely immersed in cultivating. He had thrown everything else to the back of his head.

    Within the Heaven Seizing Furnace, Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence was being refined and transformed into boundless vitality energy, bing his nourishment.

    He was now at the peak of the third level, touching the threshold of the fourth level.

    Chen Fan sensed the conditions inside him and a faint smile on his face. <i>Good, I¡¯m finally about to advance to the fourth level. Now, I¡¯ll break open these shackles in one burst!</i>

    After refining Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine energy for a whole month, he was finally touching the threshold of breaking through. Though much of the essence had been consumed, what remained, norger than a chicken''s egg, still held the potential for further progression.

    He didn¡¯t care, however. If he refined all of it, then so be it. He still had the Divine Stone of Life.

    Even if he exhausted these two resources, with his strength, he could obtain even better treasures to further raise his strength.

    <i>Advance!</i> Chen Fan roared in his heart. The Heaven Seizing Furnace erupted violently.

    The divine nascent essence was further refined, bing even smaller. Energy rushed inside him like a flood; immediately, the surrounding winds went berserk and turned into hurricanes.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Countless primeval stones exploded simultaneously, transforming into a storm of primeval qi, which he devoured and refined.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Another three days passed, and Chen Fan¡¯s aura finally reached a new level.

    Fourth level of the Core Formation realm!

 Chapter 426 - Letter of Life and Death Challenge

    <h4>Chapter 426 - Letter of Life and Death Challenge</h4>

    After dedicating a month to cultivation, refining much of Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence, and using many primeval stones, Chen Fan finally reached the fourth level.

    He could now be considered a top expert across the entire Spring Autumn Sect, likely ranking among the top ten, or even the top five, among the twenty-four holy disciples.

    ¡°Haha, very good! How refreshing!¡± Chen Fan whistled and pped the ground, pushing himself up.

    Chen Fan practiced his punches, the sound of his breath mixing with the wind. Every punch had the power to move mountains or part seas, manipting the flow of qi to create towering waves that surged fiercely through the air, creating a magnificent spectacle.

    One round, two rounds, three rounds...

    Chen Fan threw out punches faster and faster. His true primeval flowed smoothly, and his strength became more refined and unimpeded.

    He punched continuously until he was drenched in sweat. Still, he felt like he hadn¡¯t punched enough. Taking a deep breath, his eyes gleaming with determination, he suddenly nced toward the distance.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    Suddenly, a voice was transmitted over.

    ¡°What great spirits you¡¯re in, Brother Chen Fan. Your ability to take in the primeval qi of heaven and earth is so great. If you keep absorbing it at this rate, you might deplete the primeval qi in our area."

    ¡°That¡¯s right. You are now a holy disciple, Brother Chen Fan, and we¡¯ve yet to congratte you. I wonder if you¡¯ll allow us into your residence?¡±

    Two voices resonated with remarkable strength, reaching out to Chen Fan across the space.

    ¡°Excuse me, you are?¡±

    Chen Fan grew cautious. Although he was in the Heavenly Vein Mountains, dangers still lurked everywhere. He had never let his guard down for a moment.

    The names rushed in, apanied by two formidable figures who materialized within the massive residence, effortlessly bypassing the surrounding barriers.

    ¡°Yue Zhongtian.¡±

    ¡°Lei Wushuang.¡±

    <i>Yue Zhongtian, Lei Wushuang! Leaders of the Moon Alliance and the Lightning Association. Aren¡¯t their organizations second only to the Heaven¡¯s Alliance? They are experts among the holy disciples, ranked within the top five.</i>

    Still, Chen Fan showed no changes in his expression. Looking at them, he carefully probed them with his perception. They were both at the fifth level.

    As soon as Yue Zhongtian saw Chen Fan, he said, ¡°Brother Chen Fan, you bing a holy disciple truly is an asion worth celebrating. Especially since you¡¯ve greatly suppressed the Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s arrogance and helped many inner sect disciples vent their frustrations.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, you¡¯re ttering me. Such deeds are hardly worth mentioning. You lead your respective organizations, staunchly resisting the Heaven¡¯s Alliance without yielding an inch. It''s trulymendable.¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly and said, ¡°My abode is simple and crude. I¡¯ve yet to even offer you tea as a show of hospitality. Please excuse my negligence.¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Lei Wushuang was tall and sturdy. His cultivation was robust; crackling lightning danced around him. His hands sped behind his back, he had an air of superiority around him, as if he couldmand the mountains and rivers or wield the universe at his fingertips. With a casual gesture, the muffled rumble of thunder reverberated through the space.

    ¡°We''vee to propose joining forces with you against Duan Jingtian. Now that you¡¯ve be a holy disciple, you¡¯re qualified to establish an organization to build your influence. If it¡¯s inconvenient for you, we can assist you in setting up your organization to bridge any gaps in your strength. After all, there are some things that we can¡¯t possibly take care of personally given our current statuses. It¡¯ll be better to have some minions to take care of the trivial matters.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Given my hostility with Duan Jingtian, who would dare risk severe repercussions by joining my organization?¡± Chen Fan curled his lips and said.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s influence within the Spring Autumn Sect was immense, and he had numerous devoted followers.

    Establishing an organization would likely attract only a few, as joining would mean opposing Duan Jingtian¡ªan unwise move.

    ¡°Haha, many in the sect admire Duan Jingtian, but there are also many who can¡¯t stand his tyranny. Once you establish your organization, I¡¯m sure many will join you,¡± Yue Zhongtian said, smiling.

    Chen Fan waved and said, ¡°Let¡¯s talk about thister. I don¡¯t intend to create an organization for now. Surely, you¡¯re not here for just that? You didn¡¯t even have to look for me. Duan Jingtian and I are archenemies. The grudge between us is irreconcble; only one will remain standing.¡±

    Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang exchanged nces.

    Yue Zhongtian said, ¡°Fine. Since you don¡¯t want an organization, forget about it. And, yes. We didn¡¯te here for just that.

    ¡°Since everyone knows the situation between you and Duan Jingtian, we can be frank. Duan Jingtian is arrogant, tyrannical, and cruel. His motto has always been ''those who stand with me thrive, while those who oppose me die.'' Once he bes the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s sect leader, there will undoubtedly be a bloodbath. Those of us who have opposed him for years would find ourselves in grave danger. Hence, we share amon adversary.

    ¡°Our organizations have been monitoring the Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s every movement. Now that Duan Jingtian is repenting for his actions, his alliance members aren''t as arrogant as before. However, recently, they became active again.

    ¡°ording to our intel, Tianxia Society¡¯s leader, Feng Tianxia went to the ck Wind Cliff in secret a month ago, quite likely to meet Duan Jingtian. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s nothing good for you.

    ¡°Truthfully speaking, your progress has been astonishing. It''s possible that even Duan Jingtian feels threatened by you. He might ally with Feng Tianxia to eliminate you while he is away.¡±

    ¡°Feng Tianxia...¡± A cold light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    When Chen Fan entered the inner sect, Tianxia Society members had tried to force him into joining the organization. He refused, so they attacked him.

    It escted to a life-and-death showdown in the arena where he humiliated the Tianxia Society, provoking Feng Tianxia into taking action against him.

    He also had a grudge against the Tianxia Society, so he wasn¡¯t surprised that Feng Tianxia joined hands with Duan Jingtian to deal with him.

    Suddenly, a powerful aura erupted outside the mountain peak.

    <i>Woo, woo.</i>

    Simultaneously, the sound of wind filled the air as a streak of light pierced through the barrier, hurtling toward Chen Fan like lightning.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    With the might of ten thousand horses galloping, Chen Fan grabbed the streak of light through the void. He looked at it closely and realized it was a letter of challenge.

    A voice resounded.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you killed Song Yang and several other members of my Tianxia Society. Today, I, Feng Tianxia, shall challenge you to a fight. I will wait for you at the life and death arena in ten days!¡±

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s voice was mixed with a mouthful of true primeval, spreading far and wide across the inner sect. Not only did Chen Fan hear it clearly, but the entire inner sect was also shaken by the promation, erupting into chaos.

 Chapter 427 - The Day of the Duel Arrives

    <h4>Chapter 427 - The Day of the Duel Arrives</h4>

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s promation shook up the entire sect.

    Everyone heard him clearly¡ªhe had challenged Chen Fan to a life-and-death battle!

    Who was Feng Tianxia?

    He was a seasoned holy disciple and the leader of the Tianxia Society.

    With formidable cultivation and a ranking among the top ten holy disciples, he was a well-known figure across the entire Great Chu Empire.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan was a newbie holy disciple, and his fame wasparable to Feng Tianxia¡¯s in the sect. He had confronted Duan Jingtian on multiple asions and yed three great experts of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance during the martial artspetition.

    So, everyone was shocked to see one giant challenging another to a life-and-death battle. Such an event was rarely seen throughout the history of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The entire inner sect erupted into discussion almost instantly.

    ¡°Heavens, what is going on here? Feng Tianxia challenged Chen Fan?!¡±

    "I was wondering why I haven¡¯t seen Song Yang and the others around. So, they were taken out by Chen Fan. He''s truly audacious!"

    ¡°Feng Tianxia is using this as an excuse to challenge Chen Fan. Will Chen Fan ept?"

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan held onto Feng Tianxia¡¯s letter of challenge, a stern light shing across his eyes.

    He had just been informed that Feng Tianxia had gone to ck Wind Cliff to meet Duan Jingtian and would likely take action against him. And those words of warning came true the very next moment.

    ¡°Very well!¡± Chen Fan wouldn''t cower in fear or dodge the challenge. A fierce aura emanated from him, matching Feng Tianxia''s aura from a distance, as he dered loudly, ¡°Fine. Since you wish to seek death, I¡¯ll grant you your wish. Our life-and-death battle will take ce in ten days. Let''s see who dares to underestimate me after I''ve cut you down!"

    His voice echoed in all directions, audible to everyone.

    Chen Fan had agreed to the battle!

    The entire inner sect buzzed with excitement, as everyone talked about the fight.

    ¡°Cut down Feng Tianxia? What arrogance! And all that just to establish dominance. Does he not know his opponent is in the fourth level?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, don¡¯t look down on Chen Fan. Use your brain. How many of those who challenged and looked down on him have lived to tell the tale? Lin Qi, Liu Wuxiang, and Yuan Kun¡ªall dead!¡±

    ¡°True, but I sense Feng Tianxia must be very confident to issue such a challenge. I heard rumors that he visited the ck Wind Cliff a month ago. Did he obtain some treasures from Senior Brother Duan Jingtian and is now at the fifth level?¡±

    ¡°That''s a possibility.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll know the results in ten days.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m really looking forward to it...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many prayed for the next ten days to go by in a sh, all so that they could see the fight quicker.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, what big talk from you. I will take your head in ten days!¡± Feng Tianxia''s icy retort echoed through space, unwavering in his resolve.

    Chen Fan did not respond any further. Engaging in a war of words waspletely useless. His strength would do the talking in ten days.

    Yue Zhongtian said, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Feng Tianxia to challenge you so soon. He has likely advanced to the fifth level, which is why he made a move so quickly.¡±

    Lei Wushuang added, ¡°That¡¯s right. He has been stuck at the fourth level for a while now. Since he dared to challenge you, I¡¯m sure he has advanced to the next level. Perhaps he and Duan Jingtian havee to an arrangement.¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. We¡¯ll find out the truth in ten days.¡± Chen Fan waved his hand, his tone indifferent.

    He was already at the fourth level, so let alone those at the fifth level, he could even fight experts at the sixth level. Therefore, he wasn¡¯t too worried.

    Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang exchanged nces, doubt shing in their eyes as they failed to understand where his confidence stemmed from.

    There was a ny percent chance that Feng Tianxia was at the fifth level and had a hidden ace in the hole from Duan Jingtian. Even if Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang teamed up, they might struggle against him, let alone someone at the third level like Chen Fan.

    Since Chen Fan wasn¡¯t showing off his true cultivation, they could only sense that he was at the third level. Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang were not good enough to see through him.

    ¡°Looks like you have a n in mind, Brother Chen Fan. Then we can rest our worries. We''ll eagerly await the disy of your divine prowess as you kill Feng Tianxia. You''ll also be dealing another blow to Duan Jingtian''s schemes, forcing him to taste defeat once more.¡±

    ¡°In that case, please take care.¡± Chen Fan bid farewell to his guests.

    Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang saw no reason to linger. Their objective of forging an alliance with Chen Fan against Duan Jingtian had been achieved.

    ¡°Alright, then we¡¯ll take our leave.¡± Yue Zhongtian revealed a faint smile and left with Lei Wushuang.

    After they left, Chen Fan sat down on the spot and pondered silently. He found their arrival to form an alliance unexpected.

    However, he also knew they were merely using him. If Chen Fan failed to handle Duan Jingtian, they would likely yield to him. But that didn''t bother him.

    The enmity between him and Duan Jingtian was irreconcble. Only one of them could survive.

    ......

    The life-and-death battle between Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia set off wild waves in the sect.

    Yet, Chen Fan paid little attention to it. Feng Tianxia had never been a true rival to him.

    Revolving his cultivation technique, he continued to raise his strength. Another illusory primeval vessel transformed into an illusory golden core.

    Now, with four illusory golden cores inside him, he could bring out four times hisbat strength. If someone at the fifth level attacked him, they would spend theirst moments regretting their recent action.

    Chen Fan raised his head and looked at the bright moon in the sky. He exhaled a breath of turbid qi, his eyes shing with brilliant light.

    ¡°The fight is tomorrow.¡±

    Early in the morning, the red sun hung high up in the sky, with no clouds in sight. The Spring Autumn Sect was bathed in ayer of warm sunlight.

    In the Spring Autumn Inner Sect, a burst of activity ensued as many hurried toward the Life and Death Hall, their excitement palpable.

    A disciple, just back from a mission, saw the scene and felt befuddled. They grabbed someone nearby and inquired, ¡°What¡¯s happening? Why is everyone running to the Life and Death Hall?¡±

    ¡°Don''t you know? Today is the day Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia fight in a battle to the death,¡± replied the disciple impatiently. The disciple was anxious not to miss a good vantage point for the fight; then again, such events were fun because of the gossip.

    ¡°Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia¡¯s life-and-death battle... Heavens, what happened while I was outpleting my mission?¡±

 Chapter 428 - Grand Occasion

    <h4>Chapter 428 - Grand asion</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia, in a life and death battle?¡±

    The disciple, who had just returned from a mission, looked lost. It felt like all good and exciting things happened as soon as he left the sect.

    The impatient disciple saw this as an excellent opportunity to spread some juicy gossip.

    ¡°Ah, it seems you''re out of the loop. Come with me to the Life and Death Hall. I''ll fill you in on the way.¡± The impatient disciple now lookedcent and wore a smile.

    ¡°You know about Chen Fanpleting his holy disciple mission, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes. I left toplete my mission a month ago and just came back.¡±

    ¡°Okay. I''ll fill you in on the events of the past month then.¡± The disciple nodded and continued, ¡°Ten days ago, Feng Tianxia suddenly challenged Chen Fan to a life-and-death battle.¡±

    ¡°Huh, why? Did they always have such a deep grudge? If not, why the sudden challenge?¡±

    ¡°Heh, his excuse was that Chen Fan killed Tianxia Society¡¯s Song Yang and a few others, but no one knows the specifics. However, rumors say that Feng Tianxia met Senior Brother Duan Jingtian and obtained his support. He is likely at the fifth level now.¡±

    The recently returned disciple was also a smart man, so he caught on quickly.

    "So, you''re saying..."

    "Loose lips sink ships. I didn''t say anything.¡±

    The recently returned disciple immediately covered his mouth, his eyes trembling.

    ......

    The red sun gradually rose higher into the sky.

    The news of Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia¡¯s battle had spread to every corner of the sect, so almost everyone rushed to the Life and Death Hall at the appointed time.

    The Life and Death Hall was enormous, but all the disciples present made it seem cramped.

    Then again, it was inevitable.

    After all, one of the fighters was a ferocious figure whose prowess ranked among the sect''s top ten. Naturally, his involvement in a life-and-death fight created ripples akin to a boulder thrown into a tranquilke.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan, though newly appointed, enjoyed fame equal to, if not surpassing, that of Feng Tianxia.

    After all, he had emerged as a dark horse at the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, killed three alliance executives, and provoked Duan Jingtian into ignoring the rules and taking action against him. In a manner of speaking, he was solely responsible for Duan Jingtian''s punishment.

    Duan Jingtian was an idol to countless disciples within the sect. No one dared to challenge him, not even the holy disciples. Yet, Chen Fan had done exactly that on numerous asions.

    Moreover, his golden core tribtion was terrifying, utterly overshadowing Duan Jingtian¡¯s, which was a testament to his monstrous talent.

    Within the inner sect, Chen Fan''s renown was on par with that of Duan Jingtian now.

    So, the fight between two such influential disciples was bound to draw attention.

    For the past ten days, anticipation had been mounting.

    ¡°Quick, look, that¡¯s the holy disciple Zhang Can, ranked eighteenth among the holy disciples!¡±

    ¡°Ding Yi is also here. He¡¯s ranked twentieth.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, holy disciples usually don¡¯t appear in public, but it seems all of them will be here today.¡±

    ¡°Look, over there, it¡¯s Nangong Liuli, the only female holy disciple. Ranked fourth, she''s as formidable as any man. She¡¯s my idol. Her beauty is said to be capable of toppling cities and kingdoms."

    ¡°Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang are also here. They are ranked fifth and third respectively!¡±

    As the holy disciples appeared one after another, the atmosphere in the Life and Death Hall kept heating up.

    Holy disciples were lofty existences, rarely seen by the masses. To witness even one in a lifetime was considered a rare privilege.

    Now, as they appeared one after another, how could the crowd not be thrilled?

    ¡°What a gathering of talents, what grandeur! Nearly a dozen holy disciples are already here, and they also seem eager to see the fight.¡±

    ¡°Gongsun Long! He is ranked second!¡±

    ¡°<i>Whew</i>, holy crap, to witness more than half of the holy disciples today, it would be worth dying for."

    ¡°......¡±

    The appearance of the holy disciples heightened the excitement to a fever pitch.

    The holy disciples on friendly terms clustered together, upying an area in the sky. The others exuded a cold aura that deterred others froming closer, upying an area alone and receiving countless gazes and admiration from the juniors.

    Someone appeared at the entrance of the Life and Death Hall, slowly walking over. He wore a silvery-white long robe and had an overbearing and fierce aura. His gaze was deep, and every step he took seemed to synchronize with the crowd''s heartbeat.

    The neer sparked a flurry of whispers and murmurs among the crowd.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia!¡±

    Feng Tianxia walked straight towards the life and death arena inside the hall. Everywhere he passed, the crowd opened up a path for him, their expressions filled with awe.

    The core members of the Tianxia Society walked behind him. Their auras erupted, linking as one and stirring the air. The crowd heard a hum that gave off a sense of oppression.

    They were Feng Tianxia¡¯s most loyal guards, trailing behind him with iparably stern gazes, examining the crowd. No one dared to meet their gazes, choosing instead to lower their heads.

    The piercing stares of the holy disciples in the air fixated on him, scanning him from top to bottom, wanting to see through him.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia...¡±

    ¡°As expected, he has advanced to the fifth level!¡±

    As soon as they sensed that Feng Tianxia had advanced, the gazes of the top fifteen holy disciples, like Yue Zhongtian or Lei Wushuang, turned stern.

    The crowd whispered among themselves, their gazes periodically sweeping toward the entrance of the Life and Death Hall.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia is already here. I wonder when Chen Fan will arrive?¡±

    ¡°Could it be that he¡¯s scared and doesn¡¯t dare toe like a coward?¡±

    ¡°It would be too embarrassing if that were the case.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone eagerly waited for Chen Fan to arrive.

    As time passed, impatience began to set in. The sun climbed higher, casting a dry, sweltering heat upon the gathering. Many began to disy signs of restlessness.

    ¡°Why isn¡¯t he here yet? Is he really too afraid toe?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the hurry? You¡¯re just an observer, but you¡¯re more anxious than the person involved. Can¡¯t you see that Feng Tianxia is just waiting quietly?¡±

    ¡°Just wait patiently. Since he¡¯s epted the challenge, Chen Fan will not cower from the fight.¡±

    Suddenly, a sharp sound pierced the air, cutting through the murmurs of the crowd.

    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡±

 Chapter 429 â€“ Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 429 ¨C Confrontation</h4>

    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡±

    No one knew who had said that, but the Life and Death Hall fell silent immediately.

    Everyone¡¯s gaze shifted toward the entrance, where a figure d in white appeared, steadily growingrger in view.

    Feng Tianxia had been resting with his eyes closed in the arena. His eyes shot open, emitting a fierce light that seemed to cut through the air like a de.

    Everyone held their breaths, with only the sound of Chen Fan''s footsteps breaking the quiet.

    <i>Tap, tap, tap...</i>

    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, Chen Fan!¡± Feng Tianxia¡¯s icy voice broke the silence, brimming with undisguised killing intent.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The crowd felt a breeze sweep past. Their vision blurred momentarily before they realized that Chen Fan had disappeared and reappeared in the life and death arena, standing opposite Feng Tianxia.

    ¡°What, you¡¯re in that much of a hurry to die? Don¡¯t you appreciate me letting you live for another few hours?¡± Chen Fan said leisurely, looking at Feng Tianxia indifferently and ignoring his killing intent. It was as if Feng Tianxia was already a dead man in his eyes.

    Feng Tianxiaughed out loud. However, hisughter sent shivers down the spines of the onlookers.

    ¡°Such empty boasts. I think you just wanted to dy your death by a few hours.¡±

    Chen Fan sneered and said disdainfully, ¡°Even Duan Jingtian couldn¡¯t kill me, let alone you! What, you think you¡¯re invincible after bing hispdog and advancing to the fifth level? You¡¯re simply courting death, you know that!¡±

    ¡°Such arrogance!¡± Feng Tianxia was enraged.

    He burned with fury!

    Although his meeting with Duan Jingtian had been secret, matters like that couldn¡¯t stay hidden for long. Everyone had already guessed that he went to the ck Wind Cliff to pledge his allegiance to Duan Jingtian.

    However, people discussed such gossip behind closed doors.

    Who would dare to say it out loud in front of him? Well, Chen Fan made one.

    He even called him Duan Jingtian¡¯s dog. How humiliating was that!

    He had never felt this humiliated in his entire life.

    The icy aura surrounding Feng Tianxia grew stronger, making the air nearby swirl chaotically, whipping up a fierce wind in all directions.

    Many recoiled, feeling the seething rage stemming from Feng Tianxia. His fury seemed unquenchable as if it could burn through the four seas.

    ¡°What, did I step on your tail?¡± Chen Fan wasn¡¯t affected by Feng Tianxia¡¯s aura.

    Like a steadfast reef amidst turbulent waters, he maintained hisposure. He smiled coldly and continued, ¡°You dared tomit the act, so why not own up to it? Who here doesn¡¯t know that you went to visit Duan Jingtian? Pledging your allegiance to him is no different from being his dog! Others may cower in fear, but not me! To me, you''re nothing more than a dead dog!"

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s eyes be bloodshot, threatening to burst in anger.

    However, he took a deep breath, and a mocking smile sppeared on his face. ¡°Hoho, what a scheme. I nearly fell for your tricks, you little bastard! Hoping to provoke me with your words, I see. I have to admit, you¡¯ve very nearly seeded.¡±

    Chen Fan was momentarily taken aback; soon, he sneered and said, ¡°You''re overthinking my actions and overestimating yourself.¡±

    ¡°Enough excuses! I shall cut you down in front of everyone today. There won¡¯t be a way out for you in heaven or earth!¡± Feng Tianxia said coldly, his expression savage and cruel.

    A powerful aura instantly erupted from him.

    An invisible force seemed to grip the throats of everyone present except the holy disciples, tightening their breaths.

    <i>Tap!</i>

    Feng Tianxia stepped forward, and his aura suddenly skyrocketed, reaching the clouds. A fierce wind swept through, and dark clouds gathered ominously.

    His aura was chilling and powerful, growing along with his footsteps. This chilling aura pressed forward, like a huge army bearing down on the borders, pushing toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°What a terrifying aura. So, this is the strength of a holy disciple, the pressure of a Core Formation realm!¡±

    ¡°I feel like I¡¯m about to suffocate under this aura. Feng Tianxia is easily among the top five holy disciples now!¡±

    Many onlookers watched with trepidation as Feng Tianxia''s aura continued to rise.

    He was gathering momentum!

    A fifth-level Core Formation realm expert gathering momentum was enough to scare any martial artists below the Core Formation realm to death.

    Yet, amidst the tempest, Chen Fan remained steadfast. Unmoved by the powerful aura, he stood firm as the winds blew against him, his clothes fluttering but his stance unwavering.

    Just as Feng Tianxia¡¯s aura was about to reach its peak, Chen Fan suddenly said, ¡°Feng Tianxia, I have to say, you¡¯ve truly disappointed me. Did you think you could sway my mind with such tricks? You''re merely revealing petty skills before a master, overestimating yourself!"

    With Chen Fan''s words, it seemed an invisible force erupted, crashing against Feng Tianxia''s aura and shattering it, restoring calm to the scene.

    Feng Tianxia narrowed his gaze and dashed toward his opponent. When he was about ten meters away from Chen Fan, he threw out a palm strike.

    ¡°zing Sun Cloud Brushing Hand!¡±

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The air instantly heated up.

    A fierce heat wave swept toward Chen Fan mercilessly like a towering wave. The entire space shook violently.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Wild wind and huge waves swept. The winds were burning, and the waves were fiery. The heavens and earth seemed to shift hues as countless onlookers gasped in disbelief.

    The palm strike could easily kill someone at the third level, but Chen Fan showed no fear at all.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡±

    He took a step forward, his aura rising to the skies, rolling the winds and the clouds, as if he was manipting the powers of heaven and earth.

    Next, he punched.

    Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!

    He didn¡¯t need tricks or ns. He just threw a punch. The fierce and dominating force shot out like a cannonball, producing a deafening and furious roar.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their attacks collided. A deafening boom rang out, followed by fierce winds and huge waves sweeping out in all directions. The entire life and death arena trembled violently.

    Chen Fan ignored the whirlwinds and hurricanes that could kill those below the Core Formation realm.

    He strode forth imposingly, taking huge steps as his aura continued climbing. He was like a god of war, walking in the mortal world.

    ¡°Reveal all your tricks and abilities, Feng Tianxia. Do you really think these petty moves are enough to defeat me?!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation erupted fiercely. His fists moved, and numerous forces that could blow up mountains rushed out from his fists, shrouding the area and sealing Feng Tianxia within.

 Chapter 430 - Bloody Sky

    <h4>Chapter 430 - Bloody Sky</h4>

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan advanced with imposing steps. His aura swept across the sky, shaking the space.

    As he executed the Undefeated King''s Fist, it seemed like he had three heads and six arms at his back, resembling an invincible god of war.

    Like unleashed dragons, fierce and dominant energies surged forth, rupturing the air with continuous crackling that rolled through the crowd''s ears.

    Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious aura made the crowd below tremble in fear. Their legs turned into jelly, and theirplexions turned pale. To them, he seemed like the god of death.

    They harbored no delusions¡ªfacing Chen Fan''s ferocious attack, they knew they would be utterly powerless to resist, torn to shreds instantly.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Feng Tianxia snorted coldly at Chen Fan¡¯s mockery, his gaze emitting an icy gleam.

    He raised his right arm fiercely, infused it with true primeval, and brought it down as if it were the world''s sharpest de.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    A hand de!

    A ripping sound rang as if someone had torn silk.

    What appeared next was a de silhouette that seemed capable of holding the sky. As it chopped down, the sun and the moon seemed to lose their light, and it looked like the de would destroy everything.

    Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious and domineering punches crumbled under this de. A series of explosions rang out, setting off even fiercer hurricanes and whirlwinds.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s momentum wasn¡¯t affected in the slightest. With two fingers held together like a sword, he gathered his primal energy. With a wave of his hand, he shot the gathered energy from his fingertips. ¡°Go!¡±

    The sword qi surged forth, enveloping the entire space in a fierce and roiling sword aura. The air directly turned into sword qi, which were guided and formed a thirty feet long sword silhouette, shing down in the air.

    At Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia¡¯s level, one could crush iron and use qi as weapons with a simple move. Their mastery of qi allowed them to wield it with effortless precision.

    Feng Tianxia made no attempt to evade. Instead, he spread his fingers wide and pressed downward with force.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space failed to shoulder the force and produced a noise. A huge palm, covering the skies, appeared and pushed everything aside. Chen Fan¡¯s sword qi was like a river of swords; still, the palm ttened it.

    ¡°Show me your true strength, Feng Tianxia. Such tactics are futile against me!" Chen Fan''s voice rang out coldly as he summoned Nightless.

    With true primal erupting beneath his feet, Chen Fan catapulted forward.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A glint of cold steel shed through the air as a sword light materialized before Feng Tianxia, having sliced through everything in its path.

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s pupils shrank. A wave of ferocious qi rushed out from him, shaking the space, and shed with the sword qi sweeping toward him.

    ¡°I must concede, Chen Fan, you are truly remarkable. You are at the third level, but your strength isparable to those at the fourth level. Not bad, not bad at all!¡±

    A sonorous sound rang out as a de was drawn.

    In the next moment, an icy cold, blood-colored light appeared in heaven and earth.

    A de appeared in Feng Tianxia¡¯s hand.

    This de was crimson and thin as a cicada¡¯s wing. On its hilt was engraved a strange two-headed beast, and the de had intricate patterns that gleamed with an intense, heart-chilling light.

    The holy disciples in the sky immediately narrowed their gazes, recognizing the de in Feng Tianxia¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Demonic de, Bloody Sky!¡±

    ¡°Die!¡± Feng Tianxia shouted coldly, shing toward Chen Fan.

    A streak of bloody light tore through the air, silently homing in on Chen Fan.

    Sensing the looming deathly aura, Chen Fan quickly kicked off the ground, retreating backward.

    Simultaneously, he waved his arm, swinging Nightless. Streaks of icy cold sword light shot out, the sword qi taking shape in front of him, forming a shield of sword qi.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The streak of bloody light mmed onto the sword qi shield. A terrifying, destructive energy erupted, instantly shattering the sword qi shield and generating chaotic gales that rippled through the arena, leaving deep marks in their wake.

    Chen Fan gazed down at the bloody de in Feng Tianxia¡¯s hand, and his pupils shrank violently.

    He felt a sense of danger from the bloody de, so it had to be a treasure. He believed it to be at least a Grade-4 treasure, likely on par with his own iron spear

    That exined why he felt such a dangerous aura when the de hade shing at him earlier.

    Despite having driven Chen Fan back with a single sh, Feng Tianxia did not attack again. He looked at Chen Fan with an icy gaze, as if he was looking at a dead person, and said, ¡°You should feel immensely proud to have forced me to wield Bloody Sky against you.¡±

    ¡°Bloody Sky?¡± Chen Fan narrowed his gaze. He nodded and replied, ¡°It is indeed a good de, but it¡¯s such a pity that it fell into your hands. It¡¯s like a bright pearl covered in dust. Whatever, after you die, Bloody Sky will be my trophy. I''ll ensure it shines as brightly as it deserves."

    ¡°Still boasting shamelessly when you¡¯re at death¡¯s door!¡± Feng Tianxia sneered, ¡°Know that your fate was sealed the moment Bloody Sky was unsheathed!"

    Chen Fan shook his head and said indifferently, ¡°Cut the crap, let¡¯s fight!¡±

    ¡°Hmph, Blood Rain Sky!¡± Feng Tianxia''s eyes zed with killing intent as he lunged forward, seemingly teleporting above Chen Fan. He unleashed a ferocious double-handed strike with the de.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Streaks of terrifying blood-colored de light fell like a bloody rain.

    The terrifying de qi erupted, stirring the space, and fell on the arena, leaving numerous marks behind.

    Chen Fan felt an extremely heavy sense of oppression; he felt like a grim reaper had shed its bloody de down at him. It seemed like the sky would be rent.

    As the demonic de struck out, a crimson rain bathed the sky in blood.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Chen Fan roared under this powerful oppressive force. His voice was like rolling thunder, shaking the area. The air exploded continuously from his roar.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan suddenly flew up. Fierce sword qi revolved around him like stars or clouds. Guiding them with expert precision, he forged a sword light of unparalleled power.

    Chen Fan executed the Nine Swords of Wind Demon in a split second, transforming into a wind demon. Wielding the sharp sword, he rose higher into the sky, colliding violently with Feng Tianxia.

    Crisp sounds of metal shing rang out immediately.

    <i>ng, ng, ng, ng...</i>

    Sparks erupted into the air as the frenzied exchange of blows enveloped Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia in a whirlwind of chaos.

    To those in the Yuanfu realm, the swift exchange was a blur of motion. They could only see the two constantly shifting positions within that storm, shing crazily and erupting into clusters of sparks.

 Chapter 431 - Intense Clash

    <h4>Chapter 431 - Intense sh</h4>

    Yue Zhongtian and Lei Wushuang stood next to one another in the sky.

    ¡°What a surprise. Duan Jingtian actually gave Bloody Sky to Feng Tianxia!¡±

    The storm couldn¡¯t block their vision, so they could see the relentless exchange between the two figures, missing no details.

    Lightning arcs danced around Lei Wushuang. His voice carried a hint of concern as he said, ¡°Indeed. Duan Jingtian is feeling the pressure from Chen Fan.

    ¡°That¡¯s a Grade-4 exceptional quality treasure, famous across the Great Chu Empire. Although it¡¯s not as good as Grade-5 treasures like the Purgatory Divine Halberd or the Heavenly Lotus Battle God Spear, it¡¯s still absolutely terrifying. [1]

    ¡°Fifth level and Bloody Sky... I am afraid even I would only have a fifty-fifty chance against Feng Tianxia now. Chen Fan is in danger.¡±

    Lei Wushuang practiced a lightning-attributed earth tier cultivation technique, so his offensive capabilities were incredibly high. He had advanced to the fifth level years ago and had a rich foundation, earning him the third rank among holy disciples.

    Therefore, when he learned that Feng Tianxia had advanced to the fifth level, Lei Wushuang remained confident in his own abilities.

    The disparity in strength between a newbie fifth-level Core Formation expert and a seasoned veteran like himself was vast.

    However, with Bloody Sky, Feng Tianxia¡¯s offensive power was unparalleled. No spirit or god could withstand its edge. Merely being grazed by the de qi could wreak havoc upon a martial artist''s flesh and dantian.

    Yue Zhongtian said, ¡°You¡¯re right. If I were to fight him, I¡¯m afraid I would be defeated.¡±

    Ranked fifth among the holy disciples, Yue Zhongtian was also a seasoned expert in the fifth-level Core Formation realm. His admission was proof of his apprehension toward Feng Tianxia.

    Lei Wushuang said, ¡°It''s unavoidable. Our Grade-4 treasures are ordinary at best. Bloody Sky, on the other hand, used to be a Grade-5 treasure on the same level as the Purgatory Divine Halberd. Despite its diminished grade due to damage, it remains among the most esteemed Grade-4 treasures.¡±

    Yue Zhongtian smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Duan Jingtian sure invested heavily in him. He seems determined to remove Chen Fan. This battle may sway the hearts of the other holy disciples,pelling them to submit to him."

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Duan Jingtian has long held the advantage. Apart from the sect leader and the high elder who can still suppress him, he no longer has any rivals within the sect. If he bes a Divine Nascent realm expert, we will have no choice but to bow before him." Lei Wushuang¡¯s tone also sounded rather bitter.

    As holy disciples of esteemed standing, they had their pride and were unwilling to submit to another and be mereckeys.

    s, Duan Jingtian was too monstrous of a genius. He was so overwhelmingly powerful that they saw no hope of surpassing him. He was like an insurmountable mountain, pressing down above their heads.

    Yue Zhongtian momentarily fell silent before he said through voice transmission, ¡°Better a bad life than a good death. If Feng Tianxia cuts down Chen Fan, we should submit to Duan Jingtian early. Perhaps we might still obtain some benefits from him.¡±

    Lei Wushuang nodded and said, ¡°You have a point.¡±

    The eyes of the holy disciples flickered unsteadily, with thousands of thoughts racing through their minds.

    Suddenly, a shout came from within the storm of wind. ¡°sh!¡±

    A shocking bloody light erupted, tearing open this storm. Chen Fan was sent flying back from a sh.

    <i>Thud, thud, thud!</i>

    Chen Fan stepped on the air heavily, shaking the space and dispersing a formidable force that sent ripples cascading through the air.

    He looked at Feng Tianxia gravely, then looked at the Nightless in his hand before sighing.

    After all was said and done, his treasure was a whole grade lower. After exchanging dozens, if not a hundred moves, cracks spider-webbed across its surface.

    Secondster, Nightless shattered into countless shards in Chen Fan¡¯s hand, leaving only its hilt behind.

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s sword has shattered!¡±

    The crowd sucked in a deep breath of cold air.

    Didn¡¯t this mean that Chen Fan had slipped into a disadvantageous situation?

    Feng Tianxia looked at Chen Fan coldly and said, ¡°Do you have anything left to say?"

    ¡°Good de! A fine de, indeed!¡± Chen Fan pped and praised.

    Feng Tianxia smiled coldly and said, ¡°That didn¡¯t need your approval. It is a de meant for ughter. I''ve said before, that to meet one''s end beneath its edge could be considered a blessing from past lives. Now, are you ready to meet your end?¡±

    Feng Tianxia swept by like a gust of wind, his de shing downward with a force that seemed to shake the very heavens and make gods weep. ¡°Die!¡±

    An unseen force bound Chen Fan in ce, rendering him unable to retaliate, his only option to await his fate beneath the de.

    ¡°Die?¡± Chen Fan shook his head, his eyes gleaming with cold resolve. His qi erupted ferociously, and a terrifying aura engulfed him, sweeping across the heavens and earth like an unstoppable tide.

    ¡°Spear, to me!¡±

    He grabbed at the space; immediately, an iron spear appeared in his hand. He thrust the spear violently, and heaven and earth lost their colors.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    The air rolled back, dispersing the torrent of de qi with ease.

    The terrifying thrust pierced through space, crossing through space-time, and collided fiercely with Feng Tianxia¡¯s Bloody Sky.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    The bloody light shattered, and Feng Tianxia was sent flying back, looking to be in a sorry state.

    ¡°What?!¡± This sudden turn of events stunned everyone.

    Chen Fan had fallen into a disadvantageous position; unexpectedly, he sent his opponent flying with his very next attack, unleashing the aura of an expert at the fourth level.

    ¡°He¡¯s not at the third level but the fourth level of Core Formation!¡±

    Everyone was overwhelmed with shock. From inner sect disciples to elite cultivators, even the holy disciples observing from above were left dumbfounded by this unforeseen development.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    ¡°Fourth level... How long has it been since he entered the Core Formation realm? How could he advance to the fourth level so quickly!¡±

    ¡°Impossible! This is not possible! Even with the Divine Stone of Life, he couldn¡¯t have advanced to the fourth level this soon. Simply unthinkable!¡±

    The holy disciples paled at the realization, their disbelief evident. They had dedicated years, if not decades, to reach their current levels of cultivation.

    But what about Chen Fan?

    In just three to four months, he went from being at the first level to being at the fourth level, leaving onlookers dumbfounded and jaws agape in disbelief.

    Even the monstrous genius Duan Jingtian was not monstrous to this degree!

    The shock Feng Tianxia felt mirrored that of Yue Zhongtian, Lei Wushuang, and the others.

    Chen Fan was at the fourth level and his spear¡ªsimple and unassuming¡ªwas a treasure on par with his Bloody Sky.

    He had not reached this level of wealth even after cultivating for decades. Moreover, Duan Jingtian had given him Bloody Sky, so who gave Chen Fan¡ªa rookie¡ªa treasureparable to it?

    1. Reminder: Purgatory Divine Halberd is Duan Jingtian¡¯s weapon, while the Heavenly Lotus Battle God Spear is Zhong Ya¡¯s weapon. Zhong Ya is the number 1 holy disciple of the Divine Light Sect and sparred against Duan Jingtian around chapter 220. ?

 Chapter 432 - True Strength

    <h4>Chapter 432 - True Strength</h4>

    Brandishing the iron spear, Chen Fan''s aura surged, suppressing heaven and earth and instilling fear in countless inner sect disciples.

    ¡°Anyst words?¡± His aura surpassed even that of Feng Tianxia, who stood at the fifth level of Core Formation.

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s expression turned gloomy.

    He realized Chen Fan had two hidden aces: his fourth-level cultivation, and a Grade-4 treasure.

    It exined why Chen Fan had epted the challenge and boldly proimed that he would take Feng Tianxia¡¯s life.

    After a brief moment of silence, Feng Tianxia¡¯s expression returned to calm. He looked at Chen Fan evenly and said, ¡°Fourth level, huh? That was truly out of my expectations. Impressive. Truly impressive.¡±

    His words carried a dual meaning.

    Firstly, Chen Fan had cultivated from the first level of the Core Formation realm to the fourth level in less than six months¡ªit was a cultivation record. No one had ever achieved or would ever achieve such a feat in the entirety of the Tianwu Continent.

    Secondly, it underscored Chen Fan''s ability to conceal his true cultivation level effectively.

    Had he not been using Bloody Sky¡ªwhich increased his offensive prowess immensely¡ªhe could have never forced Chen Fan to reveal his true cultivation.

    Yue Zhongtian, Lei Wushuang, and the other holy disciples, emerging from their state of shock, regarded Chen Fan with newfound respect and scrutiny.

    Even Gongsun Long, second only to Duan Jingtian, couldn''t help but have a glint of admiration in his eyes.

    Yue Zhongtian said, ¡°So that¡¯s why he was so confident back then. Judging by his foundation, he advanced ten days ago at the very least. A foundation that stable couldn¡¯t havee from a recent advancement.¡±

    Lei Wushuang nodded and said, ¡°You¡¯re right. We sensed anomalies in the primeval qi of heaven and earth back then, likely triggered by his breakthrough. However, he concealed it so well that we couldn''t sense it at all."

    ¡°Perhaps he practiced some martial art to conceal his cultivation, like the Aura Concealment Technique, for example. The disparity in our cultivation levels isn''t significant, so, understandably, we couldn''t see through it,¡± Yue Zhongtian replied.

    ¡°Now that Chen Fan has unveiled his true strength and wields a Grade-4 treasure, the oue of this confrontation is uncertain.¡± Lei Wushuang¡¯splicated gaze fell on Chen Fan.

    Yue Zhongtian said, ¡°I hope he wins. I''d rather see him ascend to the position of sect leader than experience Duan Jingtian''s tyranny and cruelty with that power.¡±

    ......

    Feng Tianxia looked at Chen Fan with a calm look on his face, as if Chen Fan¡¯s surge of strength was within expectations. He said, ¡°So what if you are at the fourth level? You will still die today. No one can save you!¡±

    Many people¡¯s hearts shook.

    Chen Fan had already shown his hand, and his overallbat strength didn¡¯t seem any inferior to Feng Tianxia¡¯s. So, for him to say something like that calmly now was odd.

    Did Feng Tianxia still have a hidden ace in the hole?

    Doubts surfaced in the crowd¡¯s minds one after another.

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°So you still have some tricks up your sleeves. You need at least that much to challenge me to a life-and-death battle. Doesn¡¯t matter, though. You said something very right¡ªtoday, no one can save you. Feng Tianxia, your death is certain. No matter what abilities and methods you have, I will cut you down!¡±

    ¡°Your arrogance knows no bounds!¡± Feng Tianxia smiled coldly. ¡°Die!¡±

    In a blink, the two shed once more, unleashing torrents of terrifying whirlwinds and hurricanes in all directions.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The winds sounded mournful, and the air currents surged chaotically. The entire Life and Death Hall was shaking as if there was an earthquake.

    Explosions rang out continuously.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang. Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia went back and forth, disying their terrifying strengths to the fullest. Every one of their punches and kicks could move mountains and part the sea.

    Discussions buzzed throughout the hall as spectators watched the two blurred figures fiercely exchanging blows in mid-air.

    ¡°Terrifying, too terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Hey, doesn¡¯t it seem simr to the spar between Senior Brother Duan Jingtian and Divine Light Sect¡¯s Zhong Ya?!¡±

    ¡°This is a battle between a dragon and a tiger!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    They couldn¡¯t see Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia and could only catch a glimpse of their silhouettes. They could feel the terrifying ripples set off from their collision, which made their scalps turn numb.

    Within the storm, Chen Fan unleashed his cultivation. His strength surged uncontrobly, crushing the fabric of space itself.

    ¡°Break, break, break!¡±

    His arm, seemingly made of steel tendons and iron bones, flickered wildly as streaks of terrifying spear light flew out in all directions.

    Feng Tianxia had simrly pushed his cultivation to the extreme. Streaks of terrifying crimson de light intertwined in space, cutting through the air. Each de light could easily kill a third-level expert or heavily injure a fourth-level expert.

    ¡°Go to hell, you little beast!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. The moment I unleashed my true power, your fate was sealed, Feng Tianxia. Anyone who serves Duan Jingtian will die. You''re not the first.¡±

    Chen Fan ignored that terrifying crimson de light. Each thrust of his spear was weighty, tearing through space like meteorites, obliterating everything in their path and overwhelming Feng Tianxia.

    He had firmly suppressed Feng Tianxia within the storm. Feng Tianxia was surrounded by danger, and his clothing was ripped apart. It seemed like he would die to Chen Fan¡¯s spear if he was even slightly careless.

    ¡°You want to kill me? Haha, Chen Fan. Fine, fine, it seems I¡¯ve underestimated you. Since a fifth-level expert can¡¯t kill you... what about someone at the sixth level?!¡±

    Suddenly, a cracking noise rang out from inside Feng Tianxia. His aura instantly surged. Fierce winds swept like waves, rushing out violently, forcing Chen Fan to pull back.

    Chen Fan retreated and looked at Feng Tianxia with a stern gaze, his eyebrows furrowed tightly.

    He had known Feng Tianxia still had something up his sleeves, but this was too unexpected.

    Feng Tianxia, sixth-level Core Formation realm!

    This was Feng Tianxia¡¯s true hidden ace!

    That was why Feng Tianxia had looked so calm when Chen Fan had revealed his true cultivation, looking like victory was within his grasp. It turned out that he, too, had covered up his true cultivation.

    What surprised Chen Fan was that he failed to sense Feng Tianxia¡¯s cultivation despite his powerful perception.

    <i>That sound earlier... </i>Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly.

    Given his powerful perception, Chen Fan was sure that Feng Tianxia couldn¡¯t have hidden his cultivation from him even if he had practiced the Aura Concealment Technique.

    Yet, that was exactly what Feng Tianxia had done somehow.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze became iparably sharp, trying to figure out the trick.

    <i>It can¡¯t be a martial art like the Aura Concealment Technique, but some kind of sealing art. That cracking sound should havee from him breaking the seal!</i>

    Only a sealing art that sealed his cultivation could hide from Chen Fan¡¯s powerful perception.

 Chapter 433 - Defeat is Certain?

    <h4>Chapter 433 - Defeat is Certain?</h4>

    It would be no exaggeration to say that Feng Tianxia¡¯s true cultivation had shocked everyone. He had fooled everyone and told them that by revealing that he was at the sixth level.

    ¡°How is this possible? He¡¯s actually at the sixth level?!¡±

    ¡°He sure hid it well. If not for Chen Fan, we would have never known.¡±

    The expressions of the many holy disciples changed, their gazes flickering.

    Even Gongsun Long narrowed his gaze.

    ¡°Damn it! We were all fooled by him!¡± Yue Zhongtian¡¯s gaze flickered, his tone carried a hint of frustration.

    While everyone had assumed that Feng Tianxia was at the fifth level, he had made a mockery of them all by revealing his true cultivation.

    Feng Tianxia likely was at the peak of the fifth level when he visited ck Wind Cliff. After obtaining the treasures from Duan Jingtian, he advanced to the next level.

    However, that also meant that he had hidden his true cultivation even from Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°All that humiliation... he really can endure. Everyone underestimated him, including Duan Jingtian. The sixth level of the Core Formation realm... I¡¯m afraid he can evenpete with Gongsun Long now!¡± Lei Wushuang¡¯s lightning arcs seemed to be in a bit of disarray. The shock of the reveal had been too much.

    Previously, neither he nor Yue Zhongtian had regarded Feng Tianxia with much concern, being veterans of the fifth level.

    While they were ranked third and fifth respectively among the holy disciples, Feng Tianxia ranked tenth and was only at the fourth level.

    They realized they had never stood a chance against Feng Tianxia, neither before nor now.

    ¡°It seems he didn''t use an aura concealment technique, but rather a sealing art to suppress his cultivation level to fool us all,¡± Yue Zhongtian said.

    Lei Wushuang nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. Chen Fan has forced him to reveal it; he is in danger.¡±

    Numerous gazes fell on Feng Tianxia, every one of them iparablyplicated.

    In the Life and Death Hall, the inner sect, elite, and core disciples looked dumbfounded as they discussed the events.

    ¡°How surprising. He yed us all like a fiddle.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Everyone assumed that he advanced to the fifth level using treasures from Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, but he used them to advance to the sixth level.¡±

    ¡°In that case, Chen Fan''s brief glimmer of hope is gone, plunging him back into the depths of despair.¡±

    ¡°There shouldn¡¯t be any more surprises in this battle. Both have revealed their hands, and Feng Tianxia proves to be the more skilled of the two.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Feng Tianxia sure nned everything out to thest detail. He could have challenged Chen Fan to a life-and-death battle with his peak fifth-level cultivation. However, he met Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, obtained his treasures, and advanced to the sixth level. His preparations to ensure Chen Fan loses sure are thorough.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s such a pity. Chen Fan will fall to Feng Tianxia¡¯s hands.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps Chen Fan will be the shortest-lived holy disciple in Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s history.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Meanwhile, Feng Tianxia looked at Chen Fan indifferently, as if looking at his prey¡ªone that had always been within his grasp.

    The prey had some tricks up its sleeves; at the end of the day, could the prey really hunt the hunter?

    No matter how brilliant Chen Fan might be, he couldn¡¯t defeat someone at the sixth level with his fourth-level cultivation.

    ¡°What do you have to say now, Chen Fan?¡± Feng Tianxia¡¯s indifferent voice rang out, ¡°Is it despair that you feel? Or are thoughts of what could have been if I hadn¡¯t been at the sixth level clouding your head? You¡¯re too na?ve!¡±

    Feng Tianxia looked down at Chen Fan, the posture of a confident victor.

    Chen Fan smirked. Admittedly, Feng Tianxia had caught him off guard.

    He had expected Feng Tianxia¡¯s hidden ace to be some powerful earth tier martial skill, or perhaps an elixir that could increase his strength for a short period. He hadn¡¯t even thought that Feng Tianxia was concealing his cultivation level.

    Perhaps he had been too confident, thinking no one could hide from his powerful perception. Yet, he had stumbled into Feng Tianxia''s trap.

    Chen Fan showed no signs of panic. He looked at Feng Tianxia indifferently and said, ¡°You certainly hid it well, Feng Tianxia, fooling me and Duan Jingtian. Must be some kind of cultivation-sealing martial art you''ve mastered, right? I wonder how Duan Jingtian will react when he discovers your deception."

    Duan Jingtian was an incredibly tyrannical and cruel person, adhering to the belief that "those who follow me thrive, those who oppose me die."

    Feng Tianxia had sought refuge under Duan Jingtian''s wing but had deceived him for benefits. It was a form of betrayal.

    Feng Tianxia said evenly, ¡°No need for all that. As long as I kill you, Alliance Leader will understand it. A fifth-level Core Formation realm would hardly pose a threat to you otherwise."

    ¡°Alliance leader...¡± Chen Fan''s expression twisted with mockery. ¡°Sure enough, a hallowed holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect is willing to be a dog at Duan Jingtian¡¯s feet.¡±

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s expression instantly sank. It turned iparably dark, and he said chillingly, ¡°Cut the nonsense. I¡¯ll send you on your way now!¡±

    His aura immediately churned and boiled, suffocating the arena. The very air seemed to freeze under its weight.

    His figure blurred, and Bloody Sky came shing through the air. ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    The sky seemed to split as a streak of crimson light, razor-sharp, aimed straight for Chen Fan.

    Under the weight of Feng Tianxia''s aura, Chen Fan felt immense pressure.

    An expert at the sixth level could overwhelm someone at the fourth or the fifth level, and their pressure could restrict those weaker than them.

    ¡°It¡¯s over. Chen Fan is done for.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s death is certain the moment Feng Tianxia revealed his true cultivation.¡±

    "One strike. That de might end this duel once and for all."

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s irises shrank, mumbling to themselves that Chen Fan was done for.

 Chapter 434 - Setting Off Another Big Wave

    <h4>Chapter 434 - Setting Off Another Big Wave</h4>

    ¡°Go to hell!¡± Feng Tianxia¡¯s de sliced through space, splitting it in half.

    When he made his move, a sharp aura erupted that sent shivers down the crowd¡¯s spine as if an invisible de had cleaved their souls, threatening to extinguish them.

    The crowd was overwhelmed with shock.

    If the mere de intent could make the crowd experience such an illusion, one could guess how terrifying it was.

    The crowd broke out into a cold sweat for Chen Fan.

    The members of the Tianxia Society and the Heaven¡¯s Alliance looked at Chen Fan as if he were a dead man. This strike would seal his fate.

    ¡°From now on, our Heaven¡¯s Alliance will reign supreme in the Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    "Indeed, with Feng Tianxia''s allegiance, our leader will control the entire sect after Chen Fan''s death!"

    "We''ve tolerated him for too long. It''s time he meets his end!"

    ¡°......¡±

    A ruthless light flickered in the eyes of the alliance members, and their faces wore sinister smiles. They could envision Duan Jingtian ascending to the top and dominating the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°It¡¯s over. Even I can¡¯t escape that de!¡± Lei Wushuang¡¯s pupils shrank to the size of a pin, extremely shocked.

    The attack was too powerful; it was an all-out attack of an expert at the sixth level.

    ¡°Among us holy disciples, only Gongsun Long stands a chance against Feng Tianxia,¡± Yue Zhongtian said bitterly. If they were to be on the receiving end of that attack, they had only one recourse: death.

    ¡°Zhongtian, let¡¯s immediately head to ck Wind Cliff when this ends.¡± Lei Wushuang sent a voice transmission over.

    ¡°Alright!¡± Yue Zhongtian nodded.

    ......

    As the de descended, it seemed to cleave the very fabric of reality. Chen Fan felt like he would be cleaved. His heart beat violently, and his hot blood nearly ignited under this pressure.

    He took a deep breath, and light gathered in his eyes.

    Suddenly, his aura also started boiling. It surged and broke through Feng Tianxia¡¯s powerful pressure.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia, your trump card was surprising, but I hope you remembered what I said. Nothing will change the fact that you die today!¡±

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura boiled and churned. A terrifying power roared inside him, like ten thousand horses galloping, seemingly ready to erupt.

    He thrust his arm forward and shouted, ¡°Break!¡±

    The terrifying spear light engulfed the surroundings as if wielded by a divine entity set to obliterate everything.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying force erupted from the iron spear, toppling mountains, overturning seas, and felling the stars.

    The invisible but terrifying force crushed the space, producing rumbling noises. The entire space rippled, yielding folds.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. </i>

    <i>Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The collision of their attacks erupted with a deafening explosion, producing loud creaking as if it could not bear the heavy burden and was about to shatter.

    Terrifying whirlwinds, gales, and hurricanes tore through the air, sweeping heaven and earth, the sun, and the moon. The ripples of the force spread out, leaving the holy disciples pale-faced.

    The sheer magnitude of the sh sent shivers down the spectators'' spines, numbing their scalps.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Two figures flew out from the storm, their clothing fluttering violently. They were none other than Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia.

    ¡°<i>Ugh</i>.¡± Chen Fan groaned. He tasted something metallic in his mouth as blood seeped from the corners.

    He had used all four illusory golden cores to unleash that spear thrust. An attack that powerful could kill someone at the fifth level.

    s, Feng Tianxia was at the sixth level. Although he had only advanced recently, he was a genius with extremely great strength. Though his strike wasn''t at full power, it still packed a terrifying punch.

    Chen Fan destroyed Feng Tianxia¡¯s attack with his own, but the terrifying force shook his organs.

    The crowd erupted into a discussion.

    "He held his ground!"

    ¡°How is that possible? Earlier, Chen Fan¡¯s aura suddenly became much more powerful!¡±

    ¡°Did he master some technique that unlocks histent potential?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s getting interesting now. This life-and-death battle is bing increasingly intense. It¡¯s also surprising how Chen Fan can still resist his attacks and fight back. It seems like he still has something up his sleeves!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan''s earlier sudden surge in aura hadn''t escaped anyone''s notice. Everyone was shocked, rolling their eyes back.

    They had thought Chen Fan would fall to Feng Tianxia¡¯s de; unexpectedly, he resiliently withstood it.

    The members of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance and the Tianxia Society looked like they had just eaten a fly; their expressions were ugly.

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s expression was also dark.

    He had thought this attack would end the fight; unexpectedly, Chen Fan was still fighting.

    ¡°You really are like a stubborn cockroach," Feng Tianxia spat, his killing intent intensifying. "Even now, you cling to your tricks."

    Chen Fan was too difficult to kill, with a seemingly endless arsenal of techniques.

    Had Feng Tianxia really been at the fifth level, Chen Fan¡¯sst attack would have killed him.

    ¡°As for that sudden power-up, you must have practiced some kind of secret art that allows you to stimte your potential, increasing your cultivation temporarily. How long can you keep this up, though? A quarter-hour, or an incense stick¡¯s time?

    ¡°Too bad for you, it¡¯s useless. The kind of strength I have isn¡¯t something you can make up for just by practicing a secret art. You''re merely a trapped fish, thrashing about in its final moments!" Feng Tianxia''s voice dripped with cold confidence.

    Although Chen Fan had revealed another one of his cards, it did little to shift the tide. Feng Tianxia remained confident in his ability to subdue him.

    ¡°You talk too much crap, die!¡± Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered with Feng Tianxia¡¯s nonsense. His aura erupted like a geyser, engulfing the surroundings as he lunged toward Feng Tianxia with ferocity.

    ¡°Nothing but an ant trying to shake a tree!¡± Feng Tianxia smiled coldly. With a flick of his arm, Bloody Sky drew an arc in the air and shed out.

    <i>Rumble, rumble...</i>

    In no time, the two broke out into another crazy exchange.

    The entire space shook continuously from the terrifying force produced by their exchange.

    Chen Fan had pushed his cultivation to its limits. The power of his true primeval erupted crazily. Every attack with his spear made the sun and the moon lose their light, piercing through the stars with a deafening roar.

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s aura grew even fiercer, his every sh wielding overwhelming power akin to a volcanic eruption, thunderously sweeping away all in its path, eclipsing even the sun and the moon.

 Chapter 435 - Picking Stars

    <h4>Chapter 435 - Picking Stars</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s sudden power-up ignited another wave of excitement in the ongoing battle.

    The crowd had assumed that his death was certain with Feng Tianxia revealing his true cultivation. Surprisingly, he still had more tricks up his sleeves. Hisbat strength skyrocketed, engaging Feng Tianxia in another exhrating exchange.

    <i>Boom, rumble, rumble...</i>

    The terrifying spear light tore through space, seemingly emerging from the void with the power to rend mountains.

    The crimson de light swept out, the sharp de qi intertwining and cutting through space. Every sh had thunderous might that could shatter a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain.

    Despite the Life and Death Hall''s fighting arena being constructed from an exceptionally tough material, with defensive formations etched onto it, it couldn''t withstand the ferocity of the battle between Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia. The relentless forces ravaged the arena, rendering the defensive patterns ineffective and leaving the arena in a sorry state.

    Yet, their fight continued unaffected. Every move made during their exchange was meant to kill the other one, leaving the spectators awestruck and trembling with anticipation.

    ¡°This... Heavens, it¡¯s too terrifying. My heart feels like it''s about to burst out of my chest.¡±

    ¡°This battle isn¡¯t any less intense than the one in Tianmen Mountain. They are evenly matched, neither able to gain the upper hand.¡±

    ¡°Nah, you¡¯re wrong. Chen Fan¡¯s strength had suddenly increased, so he likely used some secret art to unlock his potential. It must have a time limit. Once it wears off, his fate is sealed.¡±

    ¡°That''s right, but we can''t deny that Chen Fan''s a genius. He¡¯s not any inferiorpared to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, being able to fight Feng Tianxia to this extent when he¡¯s only at the fourth level. It¡¯s simply a miracle.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Terrifying qi fluctuations rippled out in space endlessly, making the people¡¯s blood boil. They wished they could join the fight themselves.

    <i>Impressive. Both of them are stronger than me. </i>Gongsun Long sighed in his heart as he watched the fight. He no longer believed that only Duan Jingtian was his match among the sect disciples.

    Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia¡¯s fight proved that they were as strong as him, perhaps even stronger.

    ¡°How unfortunate. If that were Chen Fan¡¯s real strength, this fight would have likely ended in a draw.¡± Yue Zhongtian sighed lightly.

    Although the back and forth between Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia was spectacr, Chen Fan likely couldn¡¯t fight for long. Once the time limit for his secret art was up, the life-and-death battle would end.

    Lei Wushuang said, ¡°It''s truly remarkable that he can hold his own against Feng Tianxia for this long.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Duan Jingtian recognized Chen Fan¡¯s potential for growth, so he decided to nip him in the bud. Who knows how strong he would be given more time?¡±

    The holy disciplesmented one after another.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    After another intense sh, the terrifying recoil pushed them back. They steadied themselves with much difficulty.

    ¡°How truly unexpected. You''ve managed to challenge me to this extent. Unfortunately, a genius like you is destined to die at my hands,¡± Feng Tianxia said coldly as he looked at Chen Fan grimly.

    With each sh, Feng Tianxia grew increasingly astonished

    Chen Fan''s power exceeded all his expectations¡ªthat wasn¡¯t the strength of someone at the fourth level.

    Chen Fan grinned and said, ¡°Feng Tianxia, it seems your strength is as formidable as you believe.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, boasting won''t save you! How much longer can your secret artst? You will die once its effects fade!¡± Feng Tianxia said with an ugly expression.

    As if failing to kill Chen Fan after fighting for so long wasn¡¯t enough, Chen Fan would also randomly throw out an insult or two. Feng Tianxia was seething inside.

    ¡°Hahahaha, die!¡± Chen Fan ignored what Feng Tianxia had said.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Another exchange of moves began, heaven fell, the earth split, and the sun and the moon lost their light.

    Minutes and seconds slipped by, each passing moment heightening the tension among the onlookers.

    Feng Tianxia noticed something amiss: Chen Fan¡¯s secret art showed no signs of waning. ¡°How is this possible? Why isn¡¯t yourbat strength declining?¡±

    If a secret art couldst as long as an incense stick, it would be considered decent. Those that couldst for a quarter-hour were very few and far between, almost non-existent.

    After all, secret arts drew on the user¡¯s potential, even their life force. It could not be maintained for long.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s power-up had been working tediously for much longer than fifteen minutes, nearly touching the half-hour mark. What was it if not astoundingly appealing?

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°My methods surpass your imagination."

    The Nine Illusory Golden Core Secret Art was indeed a secret art but not an ordinary one.

    Instead of drawing power from his potential, it drew power from the illusory golden cores he had cultivated. It was his own strength, so it did not exhaust his potential or life force. He could use that immense power consistently.

    However, there was indeed a time limit: one hour.

    ¡°Damn it, just die already, Star sh!¡±

    Feng Tianxia''s heart sank as a sense of foreboding washed over him. Chen Fan¡¯s methods were indeed beyond his expectations.

    He had believed he could oust Chen Fan¡¯s secret art, making his death inevitable. But now, the situation was far moreplex than he had anticipated.

    Another de light shed down violently. Stars could be seen within that de light as if this attack was formed from a river of stars.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    Chen Fan refused to show any weakness. His qi erupted fiercely, clouds rising above his head.

    ¡°Damn it, go to hell, Sun Moon sh!¡±

    Feng Tianxia wielded his de with both hands, pouring his true primeval into Bloody Sky non-stop. Streams of crimson light erupted from his weapon, the de qi cutting through everything in its path.

    Holding his spear in his right hand, Chen Fan threw out a palm strike with his left, breaking through the sky.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The violent sh set off a thunderous, deafening noise. Those close to the fighting arena felt their qi and blood churning and couldn¡¯t help but spew out blood, theirplexions turning pale.

    Within that storm, Chen Fan allowed the fierce winds and huge waves to beat at him while he stood still like an undefeated god of war.

    Feng Tianxia¡¯s expression became somewhat hideous. Unable to kill Chen Fan despite the relentless onught, fury burned within him.

    Suddenly, his qi surged to its peak. A torrent of primal energy erupted from his skull, forming a swirling sea of power above him.

    With a flip of his palm, the primeval qi of heaven and earth converged in his hand, creating a primeval qi neb. A terrifying aura erupted from his palm.

    ¡°Picking Stars!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Behind Feng Tianxia, a silhouette appeared, wearing a royal crown. It looked at heaven and earth, and life and death with contempt like a god. It raised its palm, mimicking Feng Tianxia¡¯s actions, piercing through space-time.

    A vortex appeared in the skies in front of Chen Fan. A palm reached out of it, flickering with star qi runes.

 Chapter 436 - Myriad Elephants

    <h4>Chapter 436 - Myriad Elephants</h4>

    ¡°Picking Stars!¡± Feng Tianxia''s voice cut through the air like ice, and a hand extended from the void, resembling the divine palm of a god.

    The skin of the palm was rough, adorned with shimmering star qi woven into intricate runes, pulsating with power. The lines on the palm were clear, and an extremely domineering aura blossomed with its appearance.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space shook as if it couldn¡¯t bear the presence of this hand.

    It was a hand capable of plucking stars from the heavens!

    ¡°Picking Stars?! It¡¯s a middle-earth tier martial skill, Star Picking Hand!¡±

    ¡°I remember now, Feng Tianxia has a title, Star Picking Hand Feng Tianxia!¡±

    ¡°Feng Tianxia is finally going all out. I am sure Chen Fan is done for now!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire Life and Death Hall blew up into amotion at once.

    Feng Tianxia was a very low-profile holy disciple.

    As he executed his ultimate technique, Picking Stars, memories surfaced in the crowd¡¯s minds. He had earned that title solely by relying on that martial art. Though he seldom unted his skills, his reputation had not faded entirely from memory.

    Star Picking Hand descended, and Chen Fan instantly felt as if he was shackled.

    An invisible force pressed down on him, forcibly bending his spine. In front of the god, all living creatures had to submit and bow down to it.

    A dangerous aura shrouded Chen Fan, making his soul tremble.

    The hand seemed like the very grasp of the Grim Reaper, descending to im his life.

    Compared to the colossal hand, he was like a fly, destined to be crushed into oblivion, reduced to mere ashes.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Chen Fan let out a roar, channeling his qi crazily.

    His bent spine gradually straightened, and his eyes were iparably sharp as he dered, ¡°Not even the heavens can make me bend my waist, let alone you!¡±

    A ferocious aura blossomed from Chen Fan. His clothes fluttered, producing hissing and tearing noises.

    A frigid gleam flickered in Feng Tianxia''s eyes as he unleashed a ruthless strike. ¡°Die!¡±

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    The colossal hand¡¯s speed of descent increased, each movement rupturing the air, leaving no escape for Chen Fan as it closed in like vice-like steel tes. Under the overwhelming force threatening to crush him, Chen Fan¡¯s bones audibly creaked.

    ¡°You little beast, to be able to die under my Star Picking Hand, you should smile as you go to hell!¡± Feng Tianxia¡¯s gaze was cold. His killing intent gained substance and swept out.

    This was his deadliest technique. Unexpectedly, he had to use it on a brat who wasn¡¯t even at the same cultivation level as him.

    However, desperate times called for desperate measures.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was lower, hisbat strength was¡ªsimply put¡ªunreal. If he didn¡¯t also bring something absurd to the table, he couldn¡¯t defeat Chen Fan. He could even fall in trouble if he dyed things any longer.

    The monstrous palm descended with unstoppable force, whipping up violent currents that shed at Chen Fan like des. He stood like a small boat amidst raging seas, threatened to be engulfed by towering waves.

    Under this immense pressure, his cultivation technique and his true primeval were suppressed and showed signs of stagnation.

    Then, a soft sigh escaped Chen Fan''s lips, audible to all present ¡°<i>Haa</i>...¡±

    Everyone was confused.

    What did that mean?

    Was he giving up on resisting?

    Or was he regretting his impending death?

    Secondster, Chen Fan dispelled their uncertainty. "Alright, then..."

    He raised his head slightly, looking at the Star Picking Hand smashing down at him. He narrowed his eyes slightly, rays of light shooting out of them. He said, ¡°Fine, I''ll use you to test the strength of the Myriad Elephants Realm, Feng Tianxia!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    An overwhelming aura erupted from Chen Fan, eclipsing the sun and the moon, which made the Star Picking Hand take a momentary pause.

    This aura did note about from his cultivation¡ªit was from his physique. It exuded an extremely powerful aura.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan rose into the air, met the Star Picking Hand head-on, as if he was swimming against the current, and punched. An otherworldly space-time appeared at his back.

    <i>Barooomf... (Note: Elephant noise.)</i>

    From the otherworldly space-time, towering elephants, colossal as mountains, surged forth in an endless tide, trampling upon the fabric of reality behind Chen Fan.

    These huge elephants merged seamlessly with Chen Fan''s punch, which transformed into a colossal elephant¡ªa behemoth formed with thebined strength of ten thousand ancient elephants.

    When the behemoth swung its trunk, a strength so terrifying erupted that it felt like all the celestial bodies would simply roll down.

    ¡°What kind of phenomenon is this?¡±

    The crowd¡¯s hearts stopped beating, and their eyes shot wide open in disbelief.

    Boom, crack!

    Chen Fan¡¯s punch struck the Star Picking Hand.

    Time seemingly stopped.

    Chen Fan¡¯s fist was reflected in the crowd¡¯s gaze, shing with Star Picking Hand.

    Everyone was stunned, holding their breaths.

    Silence enveloped the arena, broken only by the echoing cracks reverberating throughout.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack, crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Like a spiderweb, fractures raced across the surface of the Star Picking Hand, emanating from the point of impact.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The colossal Star Picking Hand suddenly shattered into myriad fragments of primal qi, scattering chaos in its wake.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The godly silhouette behind Feng Tianxia also trembled momentarily. A look of disbelief showed in its eyes, then quickly dissipated away.

    <i>Poof, tch!</i>

    When the silhouette dissipated, Feng Tianxia also suffered a bacsh. He spewed out fresh blood furiously, hisplexion ghastly pale, and his aura withered greatly.

    Feng Tianxia staggered backward in mid-air, looking at Chen Fan with a trembling gaze filled with disbelief and fear.

    ¡°How...¡±

    That was his strongest move, but Chen Fan had shattered it with a punch, making him suffer a bacsh.

    How could this happen?

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan withdrew his fist, standing proudly in the air, ignoring the terrifying storm around him. A domain formed in his immediate surroundings, unaffected by allws. His hot blood flowed fiercely like a huge river.

    The otherworldly space-time was still there behind him. Massive ancient elephants kept rushing out, trampling space-time.

    Everyone¡¯s gaze fell on Chen Fan, feeling shocked, terrified, and various other emotions.

 Chapter 437 - Killing Feng Tianxia

    <h4>Chapter 437 - Killing Feng Tianxia</h4>

    A collective shiver ran through the hearts of everyone present, and their pulses surged back to life.

    The way everyone looked at Chen Fan changed, now filled with awe and apprehension.

    Many people did not dare to even breathe loudly. Their eyeballs trembled violently, betraying the turmoil within.

    The battle between Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia had been a whirlwind of surprises.

    As the two fought, they kept revealing their hidden cards. When Feng Tianxia had unleashed Star Picking Hand, everyone had assumed Chen Fan would die.

    Unexpectedly, all it took was one punch, just an ordinary punch from Chen Fan to deal with that killing blow.

    It was too shocking!

    The shock left the crowd nonplussed.

    What unimaginable strengthy within Chen Fan''s fist to obliterate the Star Picking Hand with sheer brute force?

    None could fathom the answer.

    As they looked at the otherworldly space-time behind Chen Fan, where colossal ancient elephants trampled the space, flinging their trunks and pulling down the stars, the crowd was horrified.

    Chen Fan¡¯s punch had the terrifying might of ten thousand elephants. It could even demolish an ancient divine mountain.

    Terrifying!

    This kind of power was too terrifying!

    As the crowd recalled the attack, they realized that the power behind the punch had been so concentrated that it had gained actual substance¡ªan embodiment of raw physical strength.

    <i>Thump, thump. Thump, thump, thump...</i>

    Silence descended upon the arena, broken only by the rhythmic pounding of heartbeats, echoing like war drums across the heavens and earth.

    Chen Fan suddenly moved.

    As if he could traverse time and space, he approached Feng Tianxia with his hands at his back.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia, to force me to use my true hidden card... You can take pride even as you journey to hell.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent voice rang out in space.

    Chen Fan¡¯s final trump card was the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. To be more urate, it was the fact that he had advanced to the thirteenthyer¡ªMyriad Elephant Realm!

    True to its name, it encapsted the strength of ten thousand elephants within a single punch. The power of that punch earlier did not disappoint him.

    He had felt deeply the terror of Star Picking Hand. Had he not been at the Myriad Elephant Realm, he would have been severely injured even if he survived the attack, leaving him with greatly diminishedbat power and at the mercy of Feng Tianxia.

    He hadn''t intended to reveal this card, but Feng Tianxia was too strong. Despite unleashing fourfold his usualbat power, the disparity in cultivation proved insurmountable.

    His original golden core and illusory golden cores were depleted, their once radiant glow now dimmed. He was exhausted.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Chen Fan strode through the air, a legion of ten thousand elephants lumbering at his back, causing the space to rumble.

    An overwhelming aura bore down upon Feng Tianxia, making his soul tremble. Terror flickered in his eyes¡ªa stark realization of his impending death.

    He had failed!

    He had meticulously prepared a fool-proof n to kill Chen Fan; ultimately, Chen Fan managed to turn the situation around.

    Despair gripped Feng Tianxia''s heart.

    Chen Fan seemingly had an endless supply of tricks and trump cards. Even the secret art that multiplied his strength wasn¡¯t his ultimate trump card. Who could expect that?

    ¡°Surprised that your n failed to kill a mere fourth-level Core Formation realm martial artist? It should have been a simple matter, but your opponent ended up being me. Regret must weigh heavily upon you now.

    ¡°But there¡¯s no medicine for regrets in this world. Speaking of which, I had no grudges against you to begin with. Our feud started because your society members acted too arrogant and overbearing, demanding that I join your organization.

    ¡°From the shes at the Life and Death Hall to our duel now, each step was a consequence of your society''s aggression. Perhaps you never foresaw this oue, but here we are today.¡±

    With each truth bomb from Chen Fan, Feng Tianxia¡¯splexion turned slightly paler.

    ¡°You wanted to kill me to gain favor with Duan Jingtian. Now, are you prepared to face your own end?" Chen Fan said with an icy voice, standing a hundred steps away from Feng Tianxia, his gaze indifferent.

    Feng Tianxia slowly raised his head and looked at Chen Fan, a hint of regret shing across his eyes.

    If given another chance, he would never tread this path.

    ¡°Die!¡± Yet, regret swiftly gave way to ferocity.

    A vicious light gathered in his eyes and shot out. He still hadn¡¯t lost. His qi erupted, covering the sky and the sun. A terrifying aura swept out.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi!</i>

    Waving his arm, he shed with Bloody Sky crazily and violently,unching terrifying streaks of bloody light.

    ¡°Mere dying struggles.¡± Chen Fan shook his head and waved his hands.

    Terrifying palm strikes were thrown out one after another, surging and rushing as if to topple mountains and overturn seas. The space instantly turned into a vast ocean, setting off wild waves and surging forth at incredible speed.

    Advancing relentlessly, Chen Fan shattered Feng Tianxia''s assaults with ease.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    ¡°Feng Tianxia, if you have no other tricks, you can die now!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm shook, and the power of myriad elephants instantly erupted.

    The very fabric of space quaked as a tremendous force collided with Bloody Sky. With a ng, the de recoiled violently before being wrenched from Feng Tianxia''s grasp, sent hurtling into the distance amidst a spray of blood.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    With Feng Tianxia¡¯splexion ghastly pale, Chen Fan appeared in front of him as if teleporting.

    Feng Tianxia felt that the person in front of him wasn¡¯t human, but an ancient savage beast that devoured people.

    Chen Fan raised his arm, fingers syed wide, aimed directly at his opponent.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying force rushed through space. Feng Tianxia¡¯s soul trembled crazily as if he had instantly fallen into an ice cer. His legs went limp, his mind seemingly sinking into hell as he stood there nkly.

    As the vicious gale of Chen Fan''s palm grazed his face like a razor''s edge, Feng Tianxia snapped back to reality, sensing the specter of death looming over him.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me!

    ¡°Spare my life, Chen Fan. Spare me, please. I only reached this realm after cultivating for decades. Spare my life, Chen Fan! I''ll serve you as a ve, I swear!"

    Feng Tianxia submitted in the face of death.

    ¡°Serve me like a ve?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm did not pause. A cold smile appeared on his face as he said, ¡°I don¡¯t need that! Your fate was sealed the moment you challenged me to this duel to the death.

    ¡°Try not to live like a dog in your next life.¡±

    As his voice fell, so did his palm. Feng Tianxia¡¯s head burst open with a loud bang.

 Chapter 438 - The Observing Holy Disciples

    <h4>Chapter 438 - The Observing Holy Disciples</h4>

    Feng Tianxia was dead!

    The lingering image of Chen Fan''s decisive palm strike, shattering Feng Tianxia''s skull, etched itself into the collective consciousness of the stunned onlookers, freezing them in ce.

    Many had never anticipated such an oue to this battle, least of all the members of the Tianxia Society and the Heaven''s Alliance, whose faces had turned pale.

    ¡°Feng Tianxia is dead...¡±

    ¡°Is the worlding to an end? Just what happened? I clearly saw Chen Fan falling at a disadvantage. Why¡ªno, how did his strength suddenly increase?¡±

    ¡°What body cultivation technique can bring forth such an otherworldly space-time phenomenon? Ancient elephants that trampled space? Is this a magic trick?¡±

    ¡°So, that was his true ace in the hole? That¡¯s too terrifying!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The people had suffered a serious shock, looking pale. When they looked at Chen Fan, their gazes carried a strong sense of awe and apprehension.

    ¡°How could this happen? Society Leader is... dead!¡±

    ¡°Impossible! This isn¡¯t real. This must be fake! There¡¯s no way Society Leader will lose to this little beast!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s over, Tianxia Society is done for!¡±

    In the wake of Feng Tianxia''s death, Tianxia Society members had lost all their previous belligerence. Every one of them looked like their parents had just died, their legs trembling.

    The cornerstone of the Tianxia Society crumbled with his death, plunging its members into despair.

    Without his protection, the Tianxia Society feared for their future. Their long-standing arrogance and overbearing attitude had made many inner sect disciples hate them. Soon, those they had bullied wouldunch a fierce retaliation against them in revenge.

    "It''s all over... this guy is truly fearsome, a genuine monster."

    In the air, the holy disciples also finally came back to their senses one after another. They looked at Chen Fan as unfamiliar and unknown emotions shed in their eyes.

    Chen Fan''s meteoric rise had been nothing short of astonishing. In less than half a year, he had ascended to great heights, gaining the power to kill experts at the sixth level¡ªan achievement that left them stupefied.

    Not even Duan Jingtian could achieve such outstanding results.

    Who would dare to treat Chen Fan as a rookie holy disciple now?!

    Could a rookie holy disciple even achieve anything close to this?

    ¡°I wonder how Duan Jingtian will take the news of this battle. Since he supported Feng Tianxia, he likely thinks of Chen Fan as a threat and wanted to nip him in the bud, but he failed.¡±

    ¡°True. With Duan Jingtian still serving his sentence at ck Wind Cliff, he can¡¯t intervene directly. However, many grand elders are on his side. I wonder if he¡¯ll get some of them to take action against Chen Fan in the dark.¡±

    ¡°The current situation still isn¡¯t clear. Chen Fan¡¯s growth is astounding. No one knows how much stronger he will be in a year. Perhaps he really can challenge Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°I nned on going to the ck Wind Cliff to pledge allegiance if Feng Tianxia won. But from the looks of things now, I¡¯ll have to wait and see. At the very least, I need to wait until Duan Jingtian¡¯s sentence ends.¡±

    Many thoughts ran through the holy disciples¡¯ minds.

    Duan Jingtian had momentum on his side, so if nothing went wrong, he would be the next sect leader.

    Once he had that position, he would bring about a bloodbath, leaving the holy disciples with the daunting task of choosing sides early on.

    Chen Fan had killed Feng Tianxia with overwhelming power, giving them hope that he could fight against Duan Jingtian. That hope embodied itself in Chen Fan.

    ¡°What do you think, Lei Wushuang?¡± Yue Zhongtian sent a voice transmission to Lei Wushuang.

    The two of them had also nned on joining Duan Jingtian¡¯s side if Chen Fan lost to gain some benefits. However, the results had left them somewhat perplexed.

    After a brief silence, Lei Wushuang said, ¡°Let''s hold off for now. We need to gauge Duan Jingtian''s next moves after his punishment. Chen Fan is growing stronger at an unreal rate. He just might have a chance against Duan Jingtian. Rushing into a decision now could leave us with no recourse in the future.¡±

    "Agreed. We''ll bide our time.¡± Yue Zhongtian nodded.

    ......

    Chen Fan nced at Feng Tianxia¡¯s corpse on the ground. He grabbed at the air and pulled Bloody Sky to him; it had lodged itself into the ground. He eximed, ¡°Excellent de! Truly an excellent de!¡±

    With Feng Tianxia dead, Bloody Sky belonged to him as his trophy.

    The expressions of Heaven''s Alliance and Tianxia Society members darkened at the sight, particrly those from Heaven''s Alliance, itching to seize Bloody Sky for themselves.

    After all, Bloody Sky belonged to Duan Jingtian, who gave it to Feng Tianxia. s, Feng Tianxia died, and the de became Chen Fan¡¯s trophy.

    This was equivalent to Chen Fan pping Duan Jingtian in the face.

    Chen Fan was unfazed by the resentful stares directed at him. He was at the height of his prestige. So what if the members of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance and the Tianxia Society resented him? They could seethe all they wanted, but none dared to challenge him unless they wanted to die.

    Putting Bloody Sky away, Chen Fan grabbed at the air again and brought Feng Tianxia¡¯s storage ring over. Through a quick scan, he found some good items inside.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan did not stay any longer at the Life and Death Hall. His figure blurred and shot into the air, disappearing in the blink of an eye.

    The holy disciples also made their exit in their little groups, discussing something among themselves.

    The Life and Death Hall erupted into chaos, voices rising as discussions grew louder, no longer hushed.

    ¡°It¡¯s over. Who would''ve thought it would end with Feng Tianxia''s death?¡±

    ¡°A holy disciple died, just like that. The higher-ups of the sect did not try to stop it!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, everyone knew about their life-and-death battle. It was already set in stone ording to the rules. Who can stop it?¡±

    ¡°You have a point. Now that Feng Tianxia is dead, the Tianxia Society will copse. Over the years, their members have been nothing but arrogant, oppressing many people. Hehe, I¡¯m afraid they have some hard times ahead.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people¡¯s gazes swept over the members of the Tianxia Society, many filled with coldness. These people had all been oppressed by the Tianxia Society.

    However, due to Feng Tianxia¡¯s presence, they could only swallow their anger. Now, it was time for them to take revenge.

    ......

    ck Wind Cliff:

    Duan Jingtian sat facing the vast sea of clouds, churning ahead. It was a majestic sight.

    The winds at ck Wind Cliff whipped fiercely, akin to des slicing through the air, ufortable for anyone in their path. Even Yuanfu realm martial artists would find the conditions challenging.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Amidst the howling winds, a figure broke through,nding on the tform of ck Wind Cliff.

    The neer was Xie Feng, now upying Yuan Kun''s former role as themander of Heaven''s Alliance.

 Chapter 439 - Fifth-level Core Formation realm

    <h4>Chapter 439 - Fifth-level Core Formation realm</h4>

    <i>Swish.</i>

    When Xie Feng arrived at the ck Wind Cliff, Duan Jingtian kept his eyes closed and said, ¡°What are the results?¡±

    Xie Feng answered, ¡°Feng Tianxia... lost!¡±

    <i>Snap.</i>

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes shot open. His sharp gaze became tangible, cutting through the air, parting the clouds ahead.

    ¡°He failed...¡± Duan Jingtian mumbled, fully aware of the implications.

    Xie Feng continued, ¡°Feng Tianxia was already at the peak of the fifth level when he asked you for a treasure. He advanced to the sixth level using that, but... Chen Fan still seeded in killing him.¡±

    ¡°Sixth level!¡± A chilling light shed across Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes. ¡°What happened?¡±

    Xie Feng replied, ¡°Feng Tianxia likely practiced some martial art that seals his cultivation. Had Chen Fan not revealed that he was actually at the fourth level, I¡¯m afraid Feng Tianxia would have never shown his true cultivation.¡±

    He narrated to Duan Jingtian the fight between Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia.

    ¡°This truly surprised me. ¡° Duan Jingtian never expected to be deceived by Feng Tianxia. He also failed to see through Feng Tianxia''s true cultivation.

    ¡°Alliance Leader, that little bastard Chen Fan is too monstrous. In less than six months, he had advanced to the fourth level of the Core Formation realm. Moreover, he can fight and kill those at the sixth level. His physique is astonishingly tough. If it weren¡¯t for that, he would have died at Feng Tianxia¡¯s hands,¡± Xie Feng said.

    Duan Jingtian looked at the vast sea of clouds in front of him; his eyes flickered. ¡°Had I known this little beast would grow so strong, I would have ughtered him back then. Allowing him to live was a grave mistake."

    He sensed a looming threat from Chen Fan. He wanted to kill Chen Fan with a borrowed knife, but that n failed as Chen Fan killed Feng Tianxia, the metaphorical knife.

    Chen Fan''s rapid progression rmed Duan Jingtian. He grew strong enough to defeat those at the sixth level in less than six months. If he were given another year, he could, very likely, stand up to Duan Jingtian, or even surpass him.

    The animosity between them was irreparable; they were bound to fight to the death.

    Chen Fan had morphed from a mere joke into a formidable adversary in just two years.

    ¡°If Feng Tianxia had seeded in killing Chen Fan, those holy disciples would have submitted to you. Now, they are wavering again, choosing to observe the situation in the dark,¡± Xie Feng said.

    Duan Jingtian could understand the situation in the Spring Autumn Sect easily.

    ¡°Hoho, there¡¯s no way those people would willingly submit to me.¡± Duan Jingtian smiled coldly and said, ¡°Between Chen Fan and me, they''re more inclined to support him."

    ¡°Then what should we do now, Alliance Leader? If we allow Chen Fan to keep growing..." Xie Feng trailed off, knowing Duan Jingtian grasped the implication.

    Duan Jingtian''s eyes flickered momentarily before he said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid it will be impossible to get rid of this little beast in the dark within the sect. Keep a close watch on him. Once he sets foot out of the sect, have the merit elder...¡±

    A chilling light shed in Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes as killing intent surged from him as he ran his thumb across his neck.

    Finally, he had epted that Chen Fan was a looming threat, so he couldn¡¯t let that grow further. He definitely couldn¡¯t allow Chen Fan to continue growing. Failure to do so might result in his own downfall.

    Xie Feng¡¯s eyes flickered, and he said, ¡°What if that little beast stays in the sect?¡±

    Duan Jingtian answered, ¡°That¡¯s easy. Just look into his n. You get what I am saying?¡±

    Understanding dawned on Xie Feng, his expression resolute. ¡°Understood.¡±

    ......

    Unbeknownst to Chen Fan, Duan Jingtian and Xie Feng were plotting at the ck Wind Cliff.

    He had returned directly to his mountain peak, immersing himself in solitary cultivation. He knew that Duan Jingtian would soon learn about the fight¡¯s oue, which was bound to put pressure on him.

    His life-and-death battle with Duan Jingtian could very well be just six monthster, as he would exit the ck Wind Cliff then. He probably wouldn¡¯t give Chen Fan any more time to grow and would make a move on him half a year in advance.

    So, Chen Fan needed to seize every minute and second to raise his cultivation as soon as possible.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan still had some of Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence and the Divine Stone of Life on him. He was pretty confident that he could resist Duan Jingtian in half a year.

    As he sat cross-legged in the secret room, thousands of primeval stones hovered around him. They burst open one after another, transforming into a storm of primeval qi and entering him through his skull. Chen Fan revolved his cultivation technique to refine it, and his aura began boiling like water.

    Simultaneously, within the Heaven Seizing Furnace, the divine nascent essence¡ªthe size of an egg¡ªwas also being constantly refined. It shrank further, transforming into a vast amount of vitality energy, which was absorbed and refined by Chen Fan.

    With both sides working in tandem, Chen Fan¡¯s aura rose like the tide, bing increasingly powerful.

    Time passed silently.

    Half a month went by in a sh.

    Although the battle between Chen Fan and Feng Tianxia ended long ago, the entire Spring Autumn Sect was still discussing it. Many disciples were still happily and tirelessly talking about that battle from half a month ago.

    And not just inner sect disciples, even some elders of the sect were talking about this matter.

    In the sect¡¯s history, such battles between two holy disciples were extremely few and far between.

    After all, every holy disciple was a part of the sect¡¯s core strength. If they killed one another over trivial matters, it would be a huge loss to the sect.

    The ripples of this battle reverberated far beyond the confines of the Spring Autumn Sect, reaching the three other great sects in Qingyang County and stirring profound shock.

    After all, it was already incredibly fortunate for the Spring Autumn Sect to produce Duan Jingtian.

    Now, another outstanding disciple had emerged, with talents on par, if not greater, than Duan Jingtian. The three great sects were all jealous,menting that no such monstrous talent appeared in their respective sects.

    However, Chen Fan remained indifferent to the external chatter, wholly engrossed in his cultivation.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace had already refined Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essencepletely, providing Chen Fan with an abundant life-origin essence.

    His aura boiled; in his dantian, his golden core blossomed with golden light, spinning and trembling violently, emitting a powerful pressure.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura suddenly surged out like the floodgates were open, reaching a peak. He had finally advanced to the fifth level.

 Chapter 440 - Breaking Through Another Level

    <h4>Chapter 440 - Breaking Through Another Level</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s surging aura rushed out, generating a violent gale that swept through the entire secret room. The gale was so strong that walls shook.

    After cultivating for nearly a month, Chen Fan refined thest bits of Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence, supplementing his life-origin essence. And finally, he was at the fifth level of the Core Formation realm.

    Opening his eyes, Chen Fan expelled a breath of turbid qi, a gleam of brilliance flickering in his gaze.

    ¡°Excellent. I have finally advanced to the next level. Ah... but I havepletely used up Daoist Corpse Spirit¡¯s divine nascent essence. Now, I only have the Divine Stone of Life to increase my cultivation.¡±

    Daoist Corpse Spirit was an almighty powerhouse at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm. Although his divine nascent essence contained vast amounts of vitality energy, it wasn¡¯t endless.

    The more one advanced in the Core Formation realm, the more resources they would need. Chen Fan had expected as much and didn¡¯t n on relying solely on the divine nascent essence to advance to the Divine Nascent realm. After all, that would have been too unrealistic.

    ¡°Now, I should practice my martial skills to condense my true primeval.¡± Rising from his seat, he walked to a small forest on the mountain peak, where he practiced martial arts.

    Apart from being an excellent means to attack opponents, one could also use martial arts to condense their primeval force or true primeval.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    At a clearing in the small forest, Chen Fan¡¯s true primeval surged. Sometimes, spear light shot out like ming meteors; at others, energy surged in his palms, smashing out with the power to topple mountains and overturn seas, stirring fierce gales and scattering gravel.

    Chen Fan spent a few days practicing two of his earth tier martial skills.

    <i>Ssh.</i>

    Chen Fan returned to the secret room and sat cross-legged in the pool of Heavenly Yang Sacred Water. Huge elephant runes materialized and merged into his flesh and blood. The asional trumpets from the ancient huge elephants filled the room.

    His Myriad Elephants Divine Art was at the thirteenthyer¡ªthe Myriad Elephants Realm. When he punched, the power of ten thousand elephants erupted, allowing him to break mountains, move mountains, part the sea, and even shatter the stars.

    That helped him snatch victory from the jaws of defeat during his fight against Feng Tianxia.

    However, the power of the myriad elephants was too terrifying. Although Chen Fan¡¯s physique wasparable to a Grade-3 treasure, he could only use the attack about three to four times.

    Such outbursts of strength weren¡¯t sustainable for long, as his physique could not support them. If he had used it a few more times, he would have crumbled like loose soil.

    The energy of the Heavenly Yang Sacred Water entered Chen Fan, strengthening his blood, flesh, tendons, bones, and membranes. If he mastered the Myriad Elephants Divine Artpletely, he could use the power of ten thousand elephants as he wished, bing strong enough to destroy even a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain with a simple move.

    Time passed quickly and silently while Chen Fan cultivated bitterly.

    He allocated his time very well, so his cultivation, martial skills, and physique improved in tandem.

    In the secret room, Chen Fan held the Divine Stone of Life, revolving the Heaven Seizing Art, drawing energy from the stone.

    He was immersed in cultivation. His true primeval kept growing, gathering in his acupuncture points and producing crackling noises.

    Chen Fan felt a sense of joy as his spirit and flesh united as one. Every thought in his mind filled him with happiness.

    Primeval stones erupted one after another, swirling around him to form a dense mass of primeval qi. Layer uponyer of storms coalesced, encircling him.

    Several vortexes emerged, greedily devouring the surrounding primeval qi as Chen Fan tried to advance to the sixth level.

    Although the life origin within the Divine Stone of Life wasn¡¯t as vast as the divine nascent essence, it was purer and more refined.

    Inside Chen Fan, his true primeval grew increasingly stronger.

    In a continuous cycle of intake and release, his true primeval suddenly surged, triggering a series of explosions within him.

    He stretched out his limbs. Behind Chen Fan, the Heaven Seizing Furnace manifested. Within it,va churned and boiled endlessly.

    His blood now possessed a ze-like hue, immacte and devoid of impurities. It was like a starry, moonlit sky, or the vast expanse of the sea under a sunlit sky, radiating brilliance for miles around.

    Martial artists cultivate and increase their cultivation by absorbing massive amounts of the primeval qi of heaven and earth. However, Chen Fan directly refined life origin essence, elevating his life form to an unimaginable level.

    His golden core shone brightly; it trembled as it grew bigger. His true primeval surged wildly like a great river in his meridians.

    Once again, Chen Fan found himself at a crucial juncture in his cultivation. Breaking through this threshold meant ascending to the sixth level.

    However, a breakthrough in cultivation wasn¡¯t achieved overnight. It required constant umtion, akin to water slowly wearing away stone.

    If he wanted to advance to the sixth level, he still had to spend more time refining his true primeval, making his golden core even purer.

    For six days and nights, he remained immersed in this process, oblivious to the passage of time. Day blurred into night as he remained singrly focused on his cultivation.

    One morning, Chen Fan channeled all the energy inside him. Silver wisps snaked through his veins and deep into him, while his true primeval churned, stirring the very fabric of existence.

    He suddenly roared, and the Heaven Seizing Furnace appeared, its suction power drawing in the primeval qi from all directions, akin to rivers converging into the ocean.

    He waved his arm, and numerous demon cores and corpse cores flew into the Heaven Seizing Furnace. Sizzling noises rang out, and they transformed into a vast amount of pure essences.

    Suddenly, an invisible, majestic power erupted, mming into the walls of the secret room. The engraved formation runes appeared, shing brightly as if they were about to break.

    The surrounding air exploded.

    About a quarter of an hourter, Chen Fan¡¯s aura calmed down, leaving behind an aura of unusual quiet.

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind became unprecedentedly clear and bright, and his physique underwent a revolutionary change.

    Sixth-level Core Formation realm, achieved!

    ¡°I¡¯ve finally reached the sixth level! With my current strength, I can even fight against those at the eighth level. It wouldn¡¯t be easy for even Duan Jingtian to kill me if he tried.¡±

    A sense of contentment washed over Chen Fan as he stretched his muscles and bones, exiting the secret cultivation room.

    He used to be an ant Duan Jingtian could easily crush; now, he had already grown into a fierce tiger. Soon, he would be strong enough to devour Duan Jingtian instead.

    As he walked out of the secret cultivation room and basked in the bright sunlight, his storage ring suddenly moved. With a thought, amunication jade talisman appeared in his hand.

    ¡°What? The n is in danger!¡±

 Chapter 441 â€“ Interceptor

    <h4>Chapter 441 ¨C Interceptor</h4>

    Themunication jade talisman hadmunicated to Chen Fan a message that made his expression darken.

    ¡°It¡¯s a message from Father. The n is facing a crisis. Our n members were assassinated...¡±

    A chilling light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, as it was an unexpected attack. Chen Zhengqing investigated the matter but failed to find anything substantial.

    A few days ago, some assassins had sneaked into the Chen n mansion and killed three Yuanfu realm elders publicly. They even seeded in injuring his grandfather, Chen Tianxiong.

    <i>What¡¯s happening? Why did our people suddenly face mysterious assassinations? Is it because my n is now as strong as some third-rate ns from the imperial city?</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, his mind working frantically anding up with a billion different reasons.

    <i>Looks like I need to make a trip back home and settle this matter. Otherwise, Father, Grandfather, and everyone else will be in danger.</i>

    Cold murderous qi surged in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, determined to uncover the instigator.

    He shot into the skies like lightning, flying out of the Spring Autumn Sect and heading toward Watermoon City.

    His n would suffer even more casualties if he dyed his visit, so he had to settle this matter as soon as possible.

    The Chen n had suffered heavy losses, losing three Yuanfu realm experts, and even Chen Tianxiong had suffered heavy injuries. Had Chen Zhengqing not appeared in the nick of time, he would have fallen as well.

    ¡°You people dare to ambush my family? You¡¯d better pray that I don¡¯t find you, or I¡¯ll make you regret ever being born into this world!¡±

    The cold light in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes almost gained substance. His icy killing intent swept across heaven and earth.

    ......

    People rarely used this road. Surrounded by mountains, one wouldn¡¯t even find a vige if they looked around. asionally, the eerie cries of tigers and wolves reverberated through the deep valleys.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo.</i> The mountain wind blew, sounding mournful.

    On his journey back to Watermoon City, Chen Fan streaked through the air, leaving thunderous echoes in his wake. Suddenly, he stopped, looking ahead with a grim gaze.

    There, blocking his path, stood a figure cloaked in ck robes, their face concealed by a chilling iron mask.

    ¡°Little beast, I''ve been expecting you!¡±

    Even with the mask, Chen Fan could confirm that he was a great expert, exuding a dangerous aura.

    "You''ve been waiting for me?" Chen Fan retorted icily, his eyes narrowing with suspicion.

    ¡°Hehe, of course. I have been waiting to usher you to hell!¡± The ck-robed masked manughed sinisterly, his killing intent surging.

    Sensing the icy killing intent, Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank, and he said with a low voice, ¡°Who exactly are you? Show your face, if you dare. Why even employ such theatrics? Because I know you?¡±

    Chen Fan''s mind raced, attempting to determine their identity. While many wanted him dead, few had the ability to do so now.

    A thought shed across Chen Fan¡¯s mind. <i>Is he a demonic cultivator?</i>

    In the Myriad Deaths Mountains, he had massacred every demonic cultivator he had encountered, including Yin Yang Schr and even Daoist Corpse Spirit, spoiling their n.

    Moreover, spies from the demonic path lurked within the Spring Autumn Sect, undoubtedly aware that he was responsible for the deaths in the Myriad Deaths Mountains. Therefore, it was only logical that they wanted to kill him.

    <i>Or perhaps Duan Jingtian sent him. </i>

    An icy light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Many of the sect''s grand elders were on Duan Jingtian¡¯s side. Now that Chen Fan had risen to power and had the strength to threaten Duan Jingtian, it was also reasonable that he wanted to get rid of Chen Fan.

    Suddenly, a realization struck Chen Fan.

    <i>Not right! The n is suddenly facing a crisis and someone intercepted me on the way there. These two matters are connected.</i>

    <i>When I¡¯m cultivating in the sect, neither the demonic cultivators nor Duan Jingtian can act against me. They can attack me only after luring me outside. And my n is the best way to lure me out... </i>

    His current chain of thoughts exined everything from the assassination to this interception.

    ¡°Hoho, of course, I know you. Why else would I risk intercepting you here?¡± said the ck-robed masked man with a coldugh.

    Chen Fan said icily, ¡°Many people want me dead, but few possess the means and confidence to fight me. Tell me, are you a demonic cultivator, or do you serve Duan Jingtian?¡±

    The ck-robed man¡¯s pupils shrank immediately. Chen Fan caught his little reaction and concluded that his assumption was correct.

    ¡°A dead man doesn¡¯t need to know so much!¡± said the ck-robed masked man coldly.

    Chen Fan¡¯s lips drew back into a faint smile, and he said, ¡°I already have a rough idea, though. A demonic cultivator wouldn¡¯t have gone through so much trouble and worn a mask. So, it¡¯s highly likely Duan Jingtian sent you.

    ¡°Those sent by him would have a reason to wear a mask. After all, if they failed to kill me, their life would be in danger if I saw your face and spread word of it.

    ¡°However, with a mask, even if I figure out your identity and report you to the sect, you can just say that I am trying to nder you. Am I right, Merit Elder?¡±

    The ck-robed man¡¯s pupils shrank to the size of a pin.

    <i>I knew it.</i> Chen Fan smiled coldly inside.

    ¡°No need to talk so much, you little beast. Just keep guessing; it won¡¯t change the fact that you¡¯ll die today!¡± The merit elder would naturally not admit it.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you don¡¯t have to admit it, Merit Elder. You want to kill me? That¡¯s funny because I want to kill you!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud. Hisughter was cold, and his tone filled with icy killing intent. ¡°I wanted to settle scores with you after dealing with Duan Jingtian; since you have walked to death¡¯s doorstep, I will fulfill your wish and push you in.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, your arrogance really knows no bounds, little beast. Did your past feats give you the delusion that you are invincible? Allow me to break such delusions!¡± His qi surged violently, and he shot forth ferociously like a cannonball. He was before Chen Fan in the blink of an eye.

    He attacked with his palm, swift as the wind and fierce as thunder. Power surged in his palms, filled with thunderous rage.

 Chapter 442 - External Incarnation

    <h4>Chapter 442 - External Incarnation</h4>

    The palm strike flew toward Chen Fan like a towering wave, capable of turning a gigantic mountain into rubble. His true primeval transformed into a vortex capable of piercing through an iron wall.

    Chen Fan indifferently punched, making the space produce a furious roar.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The collision of palm and fist sent shockwaves rippling through the surroundings, tearing apart clouds in the sky and felling trees on the ground.

    After exchanging blows, Chen Fan and the merit elder retreated backward.

    <i>Peak of the seventh level... </i>Chen Fan¡¯s face still showed no emotions, but his gaze darkened slightly.

    The merit elder held a position of great authority over the Merit Hall within the sect. So, the one in that position had to be powerful to deal with any situation that arose. The fact he was the merit elder proved that he was someone with great capabilities.

    <i>This little beast has grown stronger so quickly! </i>While Chen Fan felt a bit somber, the merit elder was shaken inside.

    Three months ago, Chen Fan had battled Feng Tianxia and turned defeat into victory at thest moment, disying his extremely powerful and terrifying strength. That fight was the catalyst that made Duan Jingtian take action. He decided to remove Chen Fan early. He got the merit elder involved to ensure nothing went wrong.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation and strength rose too quickly, startling the merit elder.

    Although the merit elder had not used his full strength earlier, he had used seventy percent of his strength. It was more than enough to easily kill someone at the sixth level.

    He knew that Chen Fan was monstrously powerful. Still, he had been sure the attack would have sent Chen Fan flying and spewing blood even if it couldn¡¯t kill him.

    However, he did not gain the slightest advantage after that exchange of blows.

    <i>He must be eliminated, or he''ll pose a grave threat to Duan Jingtian. And if hees into power, he wille to settle scores with me. I have to kill him today!</i>

    The merit elder''s eyes radiated cold, steely determination as he prepared to attack, but he also felt a tinge of regret.

    If he had known that the high elder would help Chen Fan get rid of the evil qi within the Divine Stone of Life, he would not have handed it over to Chen Fan. His mistake had allowed Chen Fan to grow so strong, so quickly.

    His current mission to intercept Chen Fan was, in part, an attempt to atone for that past sin, sanctioned by Duan Jingtian himself.

    With palms outstretched, the merit elder channeled his qi. His blood and true primeval flowed together, resonating with a cacophony of ttering sounds as his vitality surged.

    He threw a palm strike at Chen Fan¡¯s head. True primeval erupted forth, momentarily stifled as if by a mountain''s weight, as the merit elder unleashed his ultimate martial art¡ªMountain Breaking Avnche.

    Chen Fan''s figure blurred, evading the onught of true primeval. He unleashed a barrage of palm strikes, each imbued with a terrifying strength reminiscent of ancient giant elephants.

    His qi erupted violently, shrouding the sky and sun, producing a gale that peeled away a thickyer of the earth. Gravel flew everywhere, and the earth and the mountains shook¡ªit was a scene straight out of an apocalypse.

    The two exchanged seven palms in a sh.

    Every palm strike shook heaven and earth with its immense strength.

    After the seven palm strikes, they backed away, their breathing rugged. Their chests rose and fell rapidly.

    The white clouds above them were ripped into nothingness long ago. The mountain below them had been reduced to powder. Countless demonic beasts died for no reason.

    ¡°Hoho, is that all you¡¯ve got, Merit Elder? If so, I''m afraid you won''t be leaving here alive today," Chen Fan dered, his gaze piercing with unmistakable killing intent.

    Anyone who wanted to kill him was an enemy, regardless of their status within the sect. He would show no mercy.

    Moreover, he had rationale on his side. Even if he killed the merit elder, the sect would not do a thing to him.

    ¡°Merit Elder, your cultivation is higher than mine, and your true primeval is robust, fighting against me with over a hundred years of experience. Unfortunately, your body has already withered. How many times can your meridians endure such intense usage of your qi?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    Although their cultivation levels weren¡¯t the same, Chen Fan had powerful true primeval and his tough physique on his side.

    ¡°You¡¯re celebrating too early, you little beast! Did you really think I¡¯m trash like Feng Tianxia? Killing you will be child''s y for me!¡± said the merit elder, his ck robes billowing ominously as steam rose. The ferocious might of his peak seventh-level cultivation was on full disy.

    Suddenly, a whirlwind swept past, and the elder¡¯s robust true primeval coalesced into a figure identical to himself. The copy was translucent, but its eyebrows, facial features, and beard were identical. It was like a doppelganger.

    Moreover, due to its translucency, Chen Fan could see that it had meridians, dantian, and a qi sea¡ªa living being in its own right, possessing intelligence.

    As soon as this true primeval humanoid appeared, all the primeval qi of heaven and earth seemed to resonate, inducing a minor atmospheric disturbance as dark clouds gathered in the skies.

    ¡°Flesh body conversion, gathering of spirit, seizing life from heavens! Little beast, someone immature like you can¡¯tpare to my century-long cultivation. You think stumbling upon a few fortuitous encounters is all that? Now, witness the might of qi, spirit, and soul!" the Merit Elder dered arrogantly.

    He got the merit elder position thanks to two things: his powerful cultivation, and his mysterious martial art that allowed him to manifest an external incarnation. The manifestation would have seventy to eighty percent strength of his true self, so it was as strong as a newbie seventh-level cultivator.

    With this formidable skill alone, he could fight against someone at the early stage of the eighth level!

    This external incarnation lunged forward, surrounded by fierce winds and enveloped in clouds and mist. Some of the elements took the shape of creatures in front of the incarnation, with the clouds forming a dragon and the winds forming a tiger.

    Unbound by the constraints of a physical body, the external incarnation''s movements were ferocious, three to four times more powerful than the Merit Elder himself. mes raged as it struck out with a palm, the heat wave pushing the air away.

    Meanwhile, the merit elder himself wasn¡¯t idle. Working in tandem with the incarnation, they struck fiercely from the left and right, fighting two against one.

    ¡°What an incredible martial art!¡± Yet, Chen Fan remained unfazed, a brilliant light shed across his eyes.

    When one practiced their qi cultivation technique to the peak, they could cast a humanoid true primeval, simr to a weapon formed from qi, possessing incredible strength.

    However, the merit elder¡¯s incarnation was different. This was an external incarnation¡ªit was stronger and smarter.

 Chapter 443 - Another Person

    <h4>Chapter 443 - Another Person</h4>

    Chen Fan couldn''t help but marvel at the depth of the merit elder''s martial art. Cultivating an external incarnation was a feat beyond belief, effectively doubling his strength.

    Immediately, several killing moves came sting violently.

    ¡°Nine Yin Hand!¡±

    ¡°Endless Falling Jade!¡±

    ¡°Fire Dragon Qigong!¡±

    ¡°Invincible Thunderbolt!¡±

    Four radiant streaks shot out, each representing a devastating martial skill of unparalleled might.

    With over a century of experience in qi cultivation, the merit elder''s mastery of these techniques was unparalleled. His execution was smooth and powerful, each strike imbued with explosive force.

    ¡°Undefeated King¡¯s Fist!¡±

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    In response, Chen Fan unleashed his own formidable attacks. Three heads and six arms materialized behind him, delivering ferocious blows that reverberated through space, causing explosions.

    Chen Fan had a fraction of the merit elder¡¯s cultivation experience, but he wasn¡¯t any weaker than his opponent. After all, strength wasn¡¯t decided by time spent cultivating.

    In every era, there were those rare individuals known as geniuses, whose ascent resembled the rising sun. They cultivated quickly and could jump ranks to challenge those at a higher cultivation level.

    Chen Fan was one such genius, and not merely a genius, but a standout among them.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their sh ignited a deafening explosion. The space stirred, and whirlwinds swept everywhere.

    ¡°You damned little beast. You advanced to the sixth level in just three months?! Truly impressive," the merit elder admitted begrudgingly, his tone tinged with astonishment.

    ¡°Cut the nonsense!¡± Chen Fan suddenly vanished from sight, only to reappear before the merit elder¡¯s incarnation. He unleashed a palm strike at it.

    ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for your tremendous ¡®support,¡¯ giving me a treasure like the Divine Stone of Life, I wouldn¡¯t have gotten strong so quickly, Merit Elder. You''ve yed a significant role in my growth.

    ¡°How about this, Merit Elder, Duan Jingtian will surely die. No one can change that. You can submit to me right now, and be myckey. I can spare your worthless life in return.¡±

    Chen Fan blew up the incarnation¡¯s true primeval with punches and palm strikes, forcing it to fall back repeatedly. It was only an incarnation, after all.

    Although the incarnation was at the early stage of the seventh level, Chen Fan¡¯sbat strength was much higher than that. So, the incarnation could notpete with him.

    Chen Fan¡¯s proposal infuriated the merit elder.

    Be hisckey?

    Spare his worthless life?

    ¡°Cut the crap, you little beast. I¡¯ll take your worthless life today. Die!¡±

    The merit elder unleashed another palm strike, meeting Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    ¡°So, you are determined to seek death, then. Fine, I¡¯ll grant your wish, Merit Elder!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    He unleashed his cultivation fully, and his four illusory golden cores also erupted. His aura skyrocketed, as did hisbat strength. He sent the merit elder flying with a palm strike, making him cough up blood.

    ¡°Merit Elder, did you presume you can defeat me simply because you can cast an incarnation? Very well, I¡¯ll cut down this external incarnation of yours first, then break your arms before killing you. Your martial art has piqued my interest," Chen Fan dered, suddenly turning around like an eagle hunting a rabbit, pouncing at the incarnation ferociously. The gale swept like waves,yer afteryer, surging with strength.

    He knew that the n assassination was due to Duan Jingtian and the others¡¯ scheme, but that didn¡¯t mean that his n was no longer in danger. It would be a disaster if they made a move on the n during this period.

    Gripping the iron spear tightly, Chen Fan thrust forward with unparalleled ferocity. The space produced a pop sound as if it had been pierced through.

    The external incarnation had intelligence, so it could sense the imminent danger. It channeled its qi furiously, forming a stone tablet of true primeval, and sent it flying toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, pressing on with his attack undeterred.

    The iron spear stabbed the true primeval stone tablet. After a thud, cracking noises could be heard as the stone tablet cracked all over.

    The primeval stone tablet shattered into fragments, its pieces shooting out in all directions violently.

    ¡°Retreat!¡± The merit elder¡¯s qi and blood surged as he finally grasped the gravity of the situation.

    Opening his mouth, he spat a domain into the air, materializing into a huge mountain and a long river, bearing down on Chen Fan.

    But before the domain could fully oppress him, Chen Fan vanished once more.

    <i>Puchi.</i>

    With a swift motion, Chen Fan''s spear sliced through the air, cleanly severing the head of the merit elder''s external incarnation. The head soared into the sky, detached from its body without a drop of blood spilled.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    With his incarnation dead, the merit elder also suffered a bacsh. His true primeval went into disarray, and he spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood.

    ¡°What other tricks do you have up your sleeves, Merit Elder? Your external incarnation is already killed. I¡¯m sure you suffered quite the severe bacsh, <i>hehe</i>, tell me, how do you want to die?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice entered the merit elder¡¯s ears, shaking up his heart and mind.

    He had underestimated the task of intercepting and killing Chen Fan

    After all, he was a grand elder of the Spring Autumn Sect at the peak of the seventh level. Moreover, he could materialize an external incarnation; overall, the elder was strong enough to fight those at the early stage of the eighth level.

    However, Chen Fan destroyed his external incarnation, making him suffer a bacsh and greatly weakening him. He was in danger now.

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t a merciful person. If he said he would kill him, then he would do it. The merit elder would die for naught.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I admit that I¡¯ve underestimated you, you little bastard. But if you think you can kill me, then you¡¯re dreaming!¡± said the Merit Elder with an icy voice.

    Chen Fanughed coldly and said, ¡°We¡¯ll find out soon enough whether I¡¯m dreaming or not.¡±

    His strength thoroughly erupted. His aura shook heaven and earth, as he thrust his spear toward the merit elder.

    The merit elder felt as though he had been plunged into the depths of hell, facing the grim specter of death itself.

    Paralyzed by fear, he struggled to muster his true primeval, resigned to his impending death.

    Suddenly, an icy voice rang out behind Chen Fan, sending a shiver down his spine.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, truly a useless trash. You can¡¯t even handle a little bastard!¡±

    Chen Fan whirled around, his spear redirected in a sudden motion, aimed not at the Merit Elder, but at the unexpected intruder.

 Chapter 444 - Sirius Sacred Art

    <h4>Chapter 444 - Sirius Sacred Art</h4>

    Just when Chen Fan was about to kill the merit elder, an icy voice pierced the air from behind.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, truly useless trash. You can¡¯t even handle a little bastard!¡±

    Chen Fan whirled around, redirecting his spear suddenly, aimed not at the merit elder, but at the unexpected intruder. An overwhelming force surged behind him, resonating like the thunderous charge of ten thousand horses. A distorting force field made the iron spear deviate from its path.

    Reacting swiftly, he shifted position, wielding his iron spear as he looked at the intruder.

    Draped in gray robes and masked like the merit elder, the intruder exuded a chilling aura, their formidable true primeval exerting intense pressure on Chen Fan. The intruder was stronger than the merit elder.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank as he looked at him.

    ¡°And who are you?¡±

    Likely, the intruder was also from the sect leader''s faction, though Chen Fan could only specte about their true identity.

    A formidable power of stars rushed down from the skies, empowering the gray-robed masked man. An unusual sacred aura rose from him, as if they were a god descended from the stars to the mortal realm.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, studying the intruder. <i>Eight level... Only a few in the entire sect have cultivated to that level. Who exactly is he? </i>

    One could count the number of people at the eighth level in the sect leader¡¯s faction on one hand, so the intruder had to be one of them.

    Chen Fan had seen Elder Liehuo. His fire-attributed cultivation technique shocked heaven and earth, radiating intense heat that burned and twisted space. This man was not Elder Liehuo, as their aura had no heat.

    The gray-robed masked man didn¡¯t answer Chen Fan. He looked at the merit elder and said coldly, ¡°Pathetic. Were it not for me, you would have bungled this and risked our ns!¡±

    The merit elder replied coldly, ¡°Hmph, easy for you to say. This little beast is improving too quickly. He is already at the sixth level but can fight those at the eighth level!¡±

    ¡°Alright, cut the crap. Since I¡¯m here, he won¡¯t make it out alive today. Let¡¯s strike together, in case anything goes wrong. We must be prepared to justify our actions,¡± said the gray-robed masked man coldly.

    The merit elder nodded and said, ¡°Alright, kill!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was cold. Duan Jingtian''s plot to eliminate him was evidently well-orchestrated. He even secretly sent an eighth-level grand elder to ensure sess.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, thinking of killing me? With you two old coots? Fine, let¡¯s see who dies today!¡±

    With the appearance of another expert at the eighth level, things had taken a turn, but Chen Fan did not show the slightest hint of fear.

    His blood boiled with anticipation. He decided to see the true extent of hisbat strength with this fight.

    ¡°Die!¡± The symphony of dusk resounded. Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear pierced through the skies, drawing an arc that contained the mysteries of the universe. It sliced throughyers of obstacles and arrived at the gray-robed masked man¡¯s side.

    The gray-robed masked man seemed to have anticipated Chen Fan¡¯s move. Arge star appeared above his head. This star was iparably ferocious, carrying the purest energy of heaven and earth, as if it was no different from the ominous star in the sky, Sirius.

    ¡°Sirius Sacred Art!¡±

    The gray-robed masked man¡¯s cultivation technique was extraordinary. It drew upon the powers of the stars, imbuing his true primeval with the ferocious powers of Sirius. It wasn¡¯t demonic¡ªit was pure heaven and earth destructive energy.

    It was high-quality energy, strengthening the user¡¯s true primeval further. It could shock others to death with its ferociousness, disintegrating their will.

    A scepter appeared in the gray-robed masked man¡¯s hand. At its top was a crescent moon, while a giant heavenly wolf was cast at its bottom, howling at the bright moon.

    Moon Devouring Sirius Scepter.was a Grade-4 divine weapon. It carved out its own spatial domain, containing various formations that radiated numerous halos. The halos blocked Chen Fan¡¯s spear.

    ¡°Sirius Swallows Moon!¡±

    The gray-robed masked man turned the scepter, stirring ripples across myriad gxies. Stars gleamed, cascading their power like rain. The power transformed into wisps of silk that strengthened him. His true primeval turned into a giant silver wolf. It pounced at Chen Fan, aiming to swallow him.

    Chen Fan showed no fear. His bones grated against each other, muscles flexed to their limits, tendons taut as strings, and arms became akin to steel. With great force, he thrust his spear, piercing through the silver radiance.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    The merit elder also made a move against Chen Fan. His qi surged as he unleashed a palm strike.

    ¡°Little beast, go to hell! Great Compassion Palm!¡±

    Arge, jade-colored hand appeared in space, exuding an aura of universal sorrow and humanpassion, descending upon Chen Fan.

    The silver celestial wolf reappeared, with the star Sirius looming overhead like a sword of judgment, ready to descend at any moment from the sky.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The intruder¡¯s scepter shed with Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear again, this time carrying ten times the power as before, destroying the ages with unfathomable strength.

    The heavenly wolf darted toward Chen Fan, while the Great Compassion Palm pressed from the back, leaving Chen Fan trapped between a rock and a hard ce.

    Caught in this dire situation, a determined glint shed in Chen Fan''s eyes.

    ¡°Hmph!¡±

    With a loud roar, his qi surged out like a great river. With a rumbling noise, an otherworldly space-time appeared at his back, and the sound of space itself being trampled upon reverberated.

    As this phenomenon unfolded, the descending Great Compassion Palm was affected, its speed slowing as if trapped in quicksand.

    Chen Fan activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, and the power of ten thousand elephants instantly erupted.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The formidable strength materialized into a torrential river of power, surging forth with the intent to obliterate all obstacles in its path.

    The two weapons shed again, like aet crashing onto the earth. The entire space shook violently. It was as if avnches were rumbling down mountainsides, each crash echoing with overwhelming force.

    Even air couldn¡¯t escape this space-time and waspressed to the point of explosion, resulting in a cacophony of deafening booms akin to continuous firecrackers igniting.

    Chen Fan¡¯s spear was strong enough, but with the additional power of ten thousand elephants, it brought forth a hellish strength. The pressure could suck one¡¯s mind in, and it immediately suppressed all of that power of Sirius.

    The immense strength was simply unstoppable and annihted the silver-colored heavenly wolf as if it were ripping apart rotten wood.

    The intruder felt like an ancient divine mountain had crashed into him. His protective true primeval exploded, and he was sent flying, shocked as he spewed several mouthfuls of blood.

 Chapter 445 - Leaving with Ease

    <h4>Chapter 445 - Leaving with Ease</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The spear shot out, shocking heaven and earth.

    The gray-robed masked man felt like a mountain had mmed into him; he struggled to contain himself under this terrifying force. His true primeval directly exploded, and the terrifying force entered him, wreaking havoc inside.

    <i>Uegh, uegh, uegh.</i>

    With each staggered step backward, he expelled blood uncontrobly, unable to regain his footing.

    Chen Fan had repelled the intruder, but the merit elder¡¯s Compassion Palm broke through the phenomenon¡¯s force field, descending with unchecked momentum.

    The mournful aura lingered, tempting the mind to sumb to despair, to abandon resistance and surrender to oblivion.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s mind and will remained firm, unfazed by the attack.

    All his experiences, good and bad, had strengthened his willpower. He had been possessed by evil spirits, haunted by the remnant will of a demonic god, and even Daoist Corpse Spirit had tried to possess him. He had been on the brink of death every one of those times. Thankfully, the small golden person hiding in his be ensured that his soul wouldn¡¯t be torn apart and he wouldn¡¯t be possessed.

    All these incidents had strengthened his soul and his willpower.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± With a cold snort, Chen Fan refrained from pursuing the gray-robed masked figure he had sent flying. Instead, he channeled his qi, guiding his true primeval along his meridians like a mighty river, following a unique path.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    His left hand radiated blinding golden light, and it seemed like his palm had been cast from gold, emitting a powerful, unbreakable aura.

    As he threw this palm strike, a massive Buddha seemed to appear in the air. Its movements were identical to his, its palm slowly pressing down in the air.

    A boundless palm seal appeared in the air. The Great Brahma Sacred Palm had extreme ferocity and Yang properties, capable of destroying all evil in the world!

    Derived from the pinnacle of Buddhist martial arts¡ªthe Vairocana Palm¡ªthe Great Brahma Sacred Palm, while not matching the sheer terror of its prototype, held its ground as a middle-earth tier technique.

    Although Chen Fan had spent much of his time cultivating recently, he hadn¡¯t forgotten to practice his martial skills. He had achieved major mastery of the Great Brahma Sacred Palm; its power doubled upon execution.

    The Great Brahma Sacred Palm emanated the radiance of the great sun. Immeasurable golden light shot out, threatening to boil the very air in the area. Brimming with ferocity and Yang energy, the palm seal exerted immense pressure, making the heavens and earth quake as it collided with the merit elder''s Great Compassion Palm.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space shook violently, giving birth to a tempestuous windstorm that ravaged the surroundings. A mountain, towering thousands of feet high, was uprooted and flung into the sky.

    Chen Fan had gone all out, so hisbat strength was at the eighth level now. The merit elder was already injured and couldn¡¯t utilize all his strength, so he was no match for Chen Fan.

    The terrifying ripples struck the merit elder, immediately snapping his bones and breaking his tendons, sending him flying backward.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Wielding the iron spear, Chen Fan ignored the terrifying storm and stepped in the air, giving chase. He raised the iron spear high up and thrust it at the merit elder¡¯s head.

    The gray-robed masked man couldn¡¯t let Chen Fan have his way, so he interrupted again.

    ¡°Go to hell, Sirius Descent!¡±

    He suppressed his churning qi and blood and drummed up his qi, channeling his true primeval to fly. His scepter erupted withyers of bright light.

    The Sirius Star at the top of the scepter descended. It carried the might to destroy heaven and earth as it flew toward Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    Chen Fan sensed the dangering from behind. Again, he had to give up on ending the merit elder and turned to defend himself.

    With a wave of his iron spear,yers of hellish scenes appeared at its tip, including the Sukhavati Hell, Asura Hell, Avici Hell, Naraka Hell, Frozen Hell, Infernal Hell, and more.

    These hellish realms ovepped, bearing the conquering and destructive power to transform the entire world into a sea of purgatorialva fire, making countless living creatures submit to its authority.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As Chen Fan thrust his spear, its tip trembled, seemingly carrying hundreds, if not a thousand mountains, and shed with the scepter.

    The gray-robed masked man screamed miserably, and the scepter flew out of his hands. He had to step back repeatedly, fresh blood spewing out of his mouth.

    He was no match for the spear¡¯s infernal power. Each sh with the iron spear felt like a descent into hell, his will tested as if his soul were condemned for eternity.

    Stepping forward, Chen Fan seized the flying scepter, swiftly stowing it away. ¡°This scepter is mine now.¡±

    Although he had no use for this scepter, he couldn¡¯t just throw away a Grade-4 treasure. It would fetch him a decent price.

    ¡°You...¡±

    The gray-robed masked man immediately felt the mes of anger rising in his heart, and he spewed out another mouthful of blood. His aura faltered and waned. Apart from anger, he also felt indignant.

    Two experts¡ªone at the eighth level and the other at the peak of the seventh level¡ªjoined forces to kill Chen Fan, yet they failed. Failures of such nature were too embarrassing to even mention out loud.

    Moreover, their opponent wasn¡¯t even above them in cultivation¡ªthey had been defeated by someone below them in cultivation and experience. What great humiliation.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°What? Still thinking about your scepter? Just look at the situation you¡¯re in, can you still get it back? Go to hell!¡±

    He was in no mood for mercy. Wielding the iron spear, he decided to kill the gray-robed masked man.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    But just as he moved to strike, an icy chill enveloped him, followed by an unbearable surge of heat, as if seeking to engulf him in mes.

    Descending from the heavens, a massive hand formed from searing mes appeared, consuming everything in its path. Chen Fan¡¯s soul throbbed and shook as if he had fallen into hell, the scorching mes burning his soul.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Wings of Rain Dragon appeared on Chen Fan¡¯s back near-instantly; with a swish, he disappeared from the spot. He reappeared on a mountain peak far away.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The ming hand smashed down, shaking the earth.

    Instantly, the palm strike reduced a mountain peak to molten magma, leaving behind a colossal charred ck imprint on the ground.

    Chen Fan narrowed his gaze, looking at where he had been.

    <i>Elder Liehuo!</i>

    A neer stood there, masked like the other two attackers. However, Chen Fan knew the identity of this person.

    He had seen Elder Liehuo before back at Tianmen Mountain. His mastery of fire-based cultivation techniques was unparalleled, capable of distorting space¡ªa skill he now disyed once again.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian has truly gone to great lengths to kill me. Merit Elder, an eighth-level Core Formation realm grand elder, and now even Elder Liehuo...¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly. ¡°But you want to kill me? Simply delusional! I won¡¯t y with you people today. When I¡¯m done with Duan Jingtian, I¡¯lle find you to settle the scores!¡±

    With those words, Chen Fan''s Wings of the Rain Dragon unfurled, creating a fierce gust of wind as he transformed into a streak of light, vanishing into the horizon.

 Chapter 446 - The Panic-stricken Chen Clan

    <h4>Chapter 446 - The Panic-stricken Chen n</h4>

    The merit elder flew over unsteadily and questioned coldly, ¡°Liehuo, why aren¡¯t you giving chase?¡±

    Elder Liehuo nced at the merit elder and said indifferently, ¡°Give chase? That little beast has already matured. He can fight those at the eighth level, and the two of you together couldn¡¯t defeat him. So what¡¯s the use of giving chase?¡±

    Although Liehuo was stronger than even the gray-robed masked man and was confident he could suppress Chen Fan, he wasn¡¯t sure he could kill Chen Fan.

    In three months, Chen Fan had advanced from the fourth level to the sixth level. Others could only feel despair at a cultivation speed like this.

    ¡°How would we exin this to Duan Jingtian then? All three of us failed to kill him. What will Duan Jingtian think of us?¡± The merit elder¡¯s tone sounded somewhat dissatisfied.

    Elder Liehuo said coldly, ¡°You still have the gall to speak?! If you hadn¡¯t acted on your own and handed him the Divine Stone of Life, would he have advanced so quickly?"

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I made a mistake with good intentions!¡± the merit elder said, shrugging off any responsibility.

    ¡°Enough, both of you!¡± The gray-robed masked man said, ¡°Now is not the time to argue. Chen Fan is strong; understandably, we failed. After returning to the sect, we''ll report the truth to Duan Jingtian. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll need to move personally if he wants Chen Fan dead!¡±

    Elder Liehuo fell silent momentarily before he sighed and said, ¡°If his cultivation skyrockets again in the remaining time, it will be disastrous. If he surpasses Duan Jingtian...¡±

    The three fell silent.

    The gray-robed masked man said, ¡°The Divine Stone of Life doesn¡¯t have infinite energy. It has likely already stretched its capabilities to help him this much. Further advancement won''t be as easy.¡±

    The merit elder said, ¡°Elder Chen has a point. The Divine Stone of Life was contaminated by the blood of a demonic god. A good amount of its life origin essence may have been depleted already. It''s likely exhausted by now. Duan Jingtian will be free to act in six months. He can intervene directly then."

    Elder Liehuo nodded and said, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s return to the sect and report this matter to him. We¡¯ve already done our best.¡±

    ......

    A figure streaked across the horizon¡ªit was Chen Fan.

    <i>Very well. I''ll remember this. I''ll settle the score with all of you sooner orter.</i>

    A vicious light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Their scheme to harm him this time was truly vicious. He had been ambushed by three grand elders, all with mighty cultivations ranging from the peak of the seventh level to the eighth level.

    He would have lost his life if his cultivation hadn¡¯t advanced significantly and he hadn¡¯t been at the Myriad Elephant Realm.

    <i>So, there is the merit elder, Elder Liehuo, and... Who is that gray-robed man? </i>Cold light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he pondered.

    <i>Doesn¡¯t matter. After resolving the n¡¯s crisis, I can just ask Master. I¡¯m sure few in the sect practice a powerful cultivation technique like the Sirius Sacred Art. Moreover, I have the Moon Devouring Heavenly Wolf Scepter...</i>

    Chen Fan was confident he could find out the identity of the gray-robed masked man.

    <i>I have to hurry. Since their first n failed, they¡¯ll likely target the n instead. I need to be faster, much faster!</i>

    Chen Fan felt a little anxious and pushed the Wings of Rain Dragon to their limit, burning his true primeval at a tremendous rate. His speed skyrocketed in an instant.

    The wide Wings of Rain Dragon tore theyers of cloud apart. Thunder rumbled and lightning shed, and Chen Fan moved five hundred kilometers away in a sh.

    ......

    Watermoon City, Chen n:

    Dark clouds shrouded the entire mansion.

    The Chen n had taken the position of the undisputed overlord of the city. It was growing stronger, and its influence had expanded to the nearby cities.

    After a period of development, the Chen n was like a tree with well-developed roots, continuously expanding. Its overall strength was increasing, and it was also consistently producing Yuanfu realm experts. Young geniuses were also popping up one after another.

    However, half a month ago, tragedy struck.

    The Chen n''s branches in nearby cities were ruthlessly ughtered, their overseers at the Yuanfu realm meeting grim fates. Despite Chen Zhengqing and others'' efforts to investigate, they found no leads.

    The situation escted further.

    Three days ago, assassins infiltrated the Chen n mansion, brazenly killing three Yuanfu realm elders in front of the n''s experts and grievously wounding Chen Tianxiong, a third-level Yuanfu realm expert. Were it not for Chen Zhengqing''s timely intervention, Chen Tianxiong would have died too.

    The assassins were so powerful that even Chen Tianxiong had failed to stall them. Leaving chaos in their wake, they ughtered many n members and guards before departing with impunity.

    Subsequently, the entire Chen n fell into panic.

    Everyone was traumatized, jolting at the slightest breeze. Several incidents urred where the n troops identally attacked one another, killing quite a few people.

    Meanwhile, the higher-ups of the Chen n all gathered. Messages were sent to those out in the world, telling them to hide and protect themselves.

    In the main hall, a dozen or so Yuanfu realm higher-ups and the many young geniuses of the n had gathered.

    In stark contrast to their usual high spirits, the atmosphere was now tinged with paleness, panic, and unease.

    Chen Zhengqing surveyed the uneasy crowd and reassured them, ¡°Everyone, no need to be afraid. I have already sent a message to Xiaofan. I¡¯m sure he¡¯s already on his way back. Once he returns to the n, he''ll surely uncover the truth behind these events."

    Chen Fan was the Chen n''s legend, their spiritual pir. His leadership had helped the n grow from Xuanyang City to its current stature.

    The Yuanfu realm used to be an unattainable goal to the Chen n members; now, the n had numerous Yuanfu realm experts. As for Qi Grandmasters, there were simply too many to count.

    Theplexions of the uneasy Chen n leaders visibly improved. Merely invoking Chen Fan''s name seemed to bring themfort.

    That¡¯s right.

    Had there ever been a crisis the Chen n faced that Chen Fan alone couldn''t resolve?

    Moreover, he not only resolved the n¡¯s crisis but also led the n to a higher level. The entire hall buzzed with discussion, particrly among the younger generation. Their uneasy and anxious faces were reced with fierce looks.

    ¡°Great, when the young patriarch returns and unravels this matter, we¡¯ll make those damned bastards pay a heavy price!¡±

    ¡°I am confident that everything will be resolved when he returns!¡±

 Chapter 447 - Two Ants

    <h4>Chapter 447 - Two Ants</h4>

    Two figures stood on a mountaintop outside the city, letting the mountain breeze wash over them as they stood still.

    Chen Fan would have immediately recognized them, as they were Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu. They had once made things difficult for him when he first entered the inner sect by trying to search his soul.

    Elder Yingwu''s gaze fixed on Watermoon City, his face twisting into a sinister smile. ¡°Hoho, the entire Chen n is in a panic now. Chen Zhengqing has even reached out to that little bastard Chen Fan. I¡¯m sure he is out of the sect now and must be facing the might of the merit elder.¡±

    ¡°That little beast Chen Fan is a freak, rising like aet in such a short period. He must have stumbled upon some significant opportunity.¡± Elder Xiongwu¡¯s eyes flickered, his tone carrying a hint of jealousy.

    When Chen Fan had just entered the inner sect, he was no different from an ant in their eyes. Were it not for Wei Buyu''s intervention, they would have subjected Chen Fan to a soul search, turning him into an idiot.

    Yet in just over two years, Chen Fan had grown from an ant into a ferocious tiger, with the power to kill them easily. The stark contrast left them feeling uneasy.

    ¡°Who cares about his fortuitous encounter? Only death awaits him since he offended Duan Jingtian!¡± Elder Yingwu said coldly.

    Elder Xiongwu nodded and said, ¡°Right, our actions this time can be seen as a service to Duan Jingtian. When he bes the sect leader, our contributions will be duly recognized, and rewards will follow. We might even advance to the Core Formation realm.¡±

    ¡°Core Formation realm...¡± A trace of longing appeared in Elder Yingwu¡¯s eyes

    Who didn¡¯t want to be stronger?

    They were both at the ninth level of the Yuanfu realm. However, they weren¡¯t confident in facing the golden core tribtion. If they didn¡¯t find any treasures, it was likely that they would be stuck in this realm for their whole lives.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m sure the merit elder must have killed that little bastard Chen Fan by now. It¡¯s time for us to withdraw our and destroy the Chen n, wiping them out!¡± Icy killing intent shot out of Elder Yingwu¡¯s eyes as if the Chen n members were like pigs or sheep awaiting ughter, subject to his whims.

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>, let¡¯s go. They must be excited after sending a message to Chen Fan, that little beast. We¡¯ll plunge them into the depths of hell right away!¡± Elder Xiongwu simrly emanated killing intent.

    Given their cultivation levels and strengths, they could wipe out the Chen n alone.

    Meanwhile, outside Watermoon City, a streak of light darted into the city at an indiscernible speed, evading all notice.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan descended from the skies, stirring up a whirlwind. The abruptmotion within the Chen n mansion immediately put the numerous guards on high alert.

    <i>ck, ck, ck...</i>

    The private troops, whether concealed or in in sight, emerged as if confronting a formidable foe. They brandished an array of weapons, with bows drawn taut and aimed directly at Chen Fan.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Due to them being traumatized by the past events, they did not even take a clear look at the visitor and immediately let loose their arrows, attacking Chen Fan.

    ¡°Audacious!¡± Chen Fan''s expression soured at the unexpected attack from the guards.

    His energy surged, and with a sweeping motion of his hands, his true power surged forth like silk, shattering the iing arrows.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    With another wave of his hand, he sent the private troops flying. Shocked, they fell on the ground, spewing blood.

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    The re of horns filled the air instantly.

    Chen Zhengqing rushed out of the main hall and saw that the guards had encircled Chen Fan. He projected his voice with the forcefulness of amanding wife.

    ¡°Stop it!¡±

    ¡°Stop it, all of you!¡±

    After a brief moment of chaos, some of the private troop leaders caught sight of Chen Fan''s face. Their expressions became one of joy. They bellowed loudly, stopping their troops from attacking.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Young Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Young Patriarch has returned!¡±

    ¡°Everyone, stop! Don¡¯t panic, it¡¯s Young Patriarch. He¡¯s returned!¡±

    Gradually, order was restored amid the chaos.

    ¡°Father, what exactly is going on here?¡± Chen Fan looked at Chen Zhengqing with a dark expression.

    Chen Zhengqing said, ¡°Don¡¯t me them, Xiaofan. Everyone is a little jumpy these days. Even the slightest disturbance sets off rm bells. There have been a few incidents already.¡±

    ¡°Young Patriarch, it¡¯s all our fault. Please punish us!¡± The private troopmanders immediately knelt on the ground.

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°Get up, all of you. I didn¡¯t expect things to have escted to this extent. Your reactions are understandable. But now that I''m back, rest assured, no one will dare to challenge the Chen n again."

    He then walked into the main hall together with Chen Zhengqing and the others.

    ¡°This is great, this is great! Young Patriarch is finally back!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? We''ve been on edgetely, fearing another attack from that person if we let our guard down."

    The private troops visibly rxed. Their taut nerves rxed at once, and some people even sat down weakly on the ground.

    ¡°Alright, get yourselves together, everyone. Although Young Patriarch has returned, the crisis still hasn¡¯t been resolved. Keep your eyes open wide!¡± shouted a private troopmander.

    ......

    In the main hall, the higher-ups of the Chen n also sighed in relief when they saw Chen Fan. They smiled as if they had gotten free of a huge burden, or like the dark clouds that had been looming over their heads these days hadpletely dissipated.

    Chen Fan sat next to Chen Zhengqing. He nced at the crowd and said, ¡°Alright, I already have a good idea of what¡¯s happening in the n. No one can spread chaos here anymore.

    ¡°Now that I''m back, I''ll hunt down these viins and make an example of them.¡±

    The crowd sighed in relief and smiled. ¡°Since you¡¯re back, Young Patriarch, those viins stand no chance."

    Chen Fan waved his hand, cutting off their attempts at ttery, and turned to Chen Zhengqing. ¡°Father, how¡¯s Grandfather doing?¡±

    Chen Zhengqing replied, ¡°Your grandfather¡¯s life is no longer in danger, but he suffered heavy injuries and is still recuperating.¡±

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>, alr¨C¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice came to an abrupt stop. An icy, chilling light shot out of his eyes and he quickly stood up from his seat. His gaze seemed to pierce through space, seeing the situation outside the main hall.

    ¡°Great. I just came back and two ants sent themselves to our doorsteps!¡±

 Chapter 448 - Abandoned Cannon Fodder

    <h4>Chapter 448 - Abandoned Cannon Fodder</h4>

    Suddenly, an ear-piercingughter rang out from afar.

    ¡°Hahaha, hahaha...¡±

    The crowd turned to the source of the sound, startled.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    The sound of rushing wind filled the skies as two figuresnded in the Chen n mansion. Their imposing auras exploded, sending people tumbling.

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡± shrieked the private troops, ready to pounce on the enemies.

    ¡°Simpletons,¡± Elder Yingwu said with disdain, his demeanor akin to that of a noble envoy handling ignorant peasants.

    He flung his sleeves, and a terrifying qi force immediately erupted, shaking heaven and earth and sweeping away everything in its path.

    As the fierce wind howled, the nearby troops were sent hurtling backward, spewing blood as they crashed to the ground in agony.

    ¡°Stop!¡± shouted Chen Zhengqing. He and the others had rushed out, so the private troops halted, not attacking the intruders.

    ¡°You''re the ones behind this assault on the Chen n? Who are you?¡± Chen Zhengqing questioned coldly, looking at Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu with an icy gaze.

    Elder Yingwu gave Chen Zhengqing a dismissive nce and replied, ¡°I guess, there is no harm in telling you. We¡¯re inner sect elders from the Spring Autumn Sect. And as for why we''re targeting you? It''s because your son, Chen Fan, has offended someone he shouldn''t have. Now, you and your n are caught in the crossfire and will face annihtion!

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve already sent a distress signal to him, but what you may not know is that we orchestrated the recent chaos in your n to bait him out of hiding. It''s much easier to deal with him outside the sect.

    ¡°Since you¡¯re about to die, I¡¯ll show you some kindness and share with you another piece of news: Chen Fan is already dead; don¡¯t wait for him.

    ¡°Allow me to unite you with him. In hell, I mean. If you want to me someone, me yourselves for raising a son who doesn''t know his ce in the world!"

    Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu¡¯s cultivation erupted.

    The immense aura shocked heaven and earth, shrouding the space. It formed a powerful force field, oppressing the crowd and making their minds tremble.

    Suddenly, an icy voice rang out from behind Chen Zhengqing and the others.

    "How fascinating. I return, only to find some ants rushing headlong to their death."

    <i>Tap, tap, tap...</i>

    Chen Tianshi, Chen Hualong, and the others opened up a path one after another, letting Chen Fan walk out slowly.

    Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu¡¯s qi momentarily wavered when they saw Chen Fan. Their expressions shifted to shock as if they had seen a ghost.

    Elder Yingwu pointed at Chen Fan, his legs trembling, and said, ¡°You... how is this possible?¡±

    Why was he here?

    Didn¡¯t the merit elder kill him?

    Chen Fan walked up to Chen Zhengqing¡¯s side and looked at Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu coldly. ¡°You must be nothing but cannon fodder to Duan Jingtian. What, did you think those old coots like Merit Elder and Elder Liehuo could kill me?¡±

    ¡°What? Even Elder Liehuo is involved!¡± Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu were shocked again. They had only known about the merit elder''s involvement.

    Chen Fan snorted and said mockingly, ¡°Ignorance suits you. That doesn¡¯t matter, though. You¡¯ll be dying for certain today. No one can save you.

    ¡°Honestly, I forgot about you two clowns, but look at you guys, reminding me of our grudge. Good. If death is what you want, I¡¯ll grant your wish.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words were like a sharp sword stabbing Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu¡¯s hearts. A palpable sense of dread washed over them, chilling them to the core.

    Reacting instinctively, Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu channeled their primeval force, executing their advanced movement skill to escape.

    ¡°Run!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, Elder Yingwu, Elder Xiongwu, you think you can escape? You¡¯re simply delusional!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly.

    He would truly be a joke if he let Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu escape. With a swift motion, he reached out, his hand engulfing the space before him.

    ¡°Down!¡± An unseen force surged forth, gripping the very fabric of space as if it were y in Chen Fan''s hands.

    Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu were immediately restrained, hanging in the air like sculptures. Next, an invisible palm struck them.

    With two bangs, the two plunged from the sky like meteors, smashing tworge holes into the ground, the earth shaking violently.

    "Arrogant fools!¡±

    The impact was brutal, causing Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu to spew blood uncontrobly, their bones and tendons shattered and their vision blurred.

    They knew Chen Fan was powerful, but experiencing the firsthand experience drove home just how outmatched they were. They were indeed nothing but ants before him. Terror engulfed their hearts.

    They hade to the Chen n with great excitement to massacre its nsmen. Then, they would im credit in front of Duan Jingtian after finishing their mission. However, Chen Fan had shattered their fantasy.

    ¡°You fools, did Elder Liehuo and the others not send you a warning? Clearly, they sent you here to die. This is what happens when you serve Duan Jingtian like a dog. What, do you still have anything to say?¡±

    Elder Yingwu and Elder Xiongwu¡¯s faces were devoid of color, feeling bitter inside and unable to speak of their suffering.

    They knew that Chen Fan was right.

    The merit elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others had failed to ambush Chen Fan, but they didn¡¯t inform them of their failure. Consequently, they had walked right into a trap and sent themselves to their deaths. A tide of hatred surged within them toward Duan Jingtian, the merit elder, and Elder Liehuo.

    ¡°You can¡¯t kill us, Chen Fan. We¡¯re inner sect elders of the Spring Autumn Sect. If you kill us, the sect would surely investigate the matter. And then, even you won''t escape unscathed," Elder Yingwu retorted, his voice strained.

    Chen Fan said with a cold smile, ¡°You¡¯re using that to pressure me? How funny! If Elder Liehuo hadn¡¯t interrupted, I would have even killed the merit elder. Now, tell me, do you think I care about you two?

    ¡°Also, you vited the sect¡¯s rules and dared to make a move on my n and kill my nsmen. Even if the sect found out, they wouldn¡¯t do a thing to me.

    ¡°Even if you manage to talk an iron tree into blooming today, it won¡¯t save your lives. You were destined to die the moment youid hands on my n.¡±

 Chapter 449 - Entering Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range Again

    <h4>Chapter 449 - Entering Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range Again</h4>

    The elders'' faces paled further at Chen Fan''s words.

    ¡°You''re likely regretting your choices now, but there¡¯s no medicine for regret in this world. You¡¯ll have to pay for your sins. Our Chen n¡¯s people are not that easy to mess with!

    ¡°Rest assured, soon Elder Liehuo, the Merit Elder, and even Duan Jingtian will join you in hell. I¡¯ll kill them all, one by one!¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, as those people were nothing in his eyes.

    Suddenly, Elder Yingwuunched an attack.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    His aura rose to the sky, as he ignited his primeval force. He wanted to take Chen Fan down while his guard was down.

    His hand cut through the air, and a brilliant sword light¡ªone like the zing sun¡ªflew toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Elder Yingwuughed maniacally and said, ¡°Little bastard, you want to kill me? You¡¯re not qualified!¡±

    "Is that so?" Chen Fan''s voice was frigid, sending a shiver down Elder Yingwu''s spine.

    His attack hadnded on Chen Fan, but he emerged from it unscathed. Elder Yingwu was horrified and eximed in shock, ¡°You... how is that possible?!¡±

    Brushing himself off, Chen Fan mocked, ¡°You couldn¡¯t have harmed me even if you had attacked me with a Grade-3 weapon, let alone a measly hand de. So, answer this, are you qualified to attack me?¡±

    Elder Yingwu''s world plummeted into darkness; soon, a destructive aura erupted from him¡ªhe was going to self-destruct.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes and unleashed a palm strike.

    A mass of terrifying energy rushed into Elder Yingwu; it destroyed his primeval vessel, his bones, and his tendons.

    ¡°Self-destructing in front of me? What a joke!¡±

    Elder Yingwu looked at Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent face. Regret and hatred filled his eyes as their light gradually faded.

    Chen Fan¡¯s attack had been so terrifying that not even a Core Formation realm expert would have survived, so apart from destroying Elder Yingwu¡¯s primeval vessel, it even obliterated his vitality.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Elder Xiongwu lost all semnce ofposure. He knelt on the ground, kowtowing to Chen Fan as if he was pounding garlic, and begged, ¡°Chen Fan, please, don¡¯t kill me. Please spare my worthless life. I¡¯m willing to serve you like a loyal servant¡ªno, I¡¯ll be your ve. All I ask is for you to spare my life. I don¡¯t want to die...¡±

    The onlookers from the Chen n watched with mixed emotions.

    They remembered Yingwu and Xiongwu¡¯s arrogance and threats. When they had first attacked their n, they had shown utter disregard for the n members¡¯ lives, threatening topletely wipe out the n.

    However, before Chen Fan, they were like rats who had seen a cat, trying to escape quickly.

    Unfortunately, they couldn¡¯t escape just because they wanted to. Elder Xiongwu waspletely scared out of his wits and was kowtowing, begging for mercy.

    Chen Fan''s gaze remained icy as he looked at Elder Xiongwu.

    ¡°Begging for mercy? Be my ve? Are you even worthy? Blood debts need to be repaid in blood.¡±

    If it wasn¡¯t for Chen Fan¡¯s immense strength, they would have massacred his entire n.

    ¡°Fine, I won¡¯t kill you. When I first entered the inner sect, you wanted to conduct a soul search on me. I¡¯ll let you have a taste of your own medicine!¡±

    ¡°No...¡± His resistance was futile.

    Chen Fan ced his palm on Elder Xiongwu¡¯s head, and a terrifying force immediately rushed in.

    Elder Xiongwu''s screams pierced the air as his eyes rolled back and he convulsed in agony. Soul searching was a cruel method, delving into the depths of a person''s soul, inflicting excruciating pain and causing irreparable damage.

    Months ago, Yingwu and Xiongwu wanted to subject Chen Fan to this torment, hoping to dig out his secrets.

    The miserable screams continued for a minute before Chen Fan retracted his palm, his expression frosty.

    Elder Xiongwu¡¯s eyes were soulless. His soul had suffered a heavy blow, and he had turned into an idiot.

    Something seemed off about Chen Fan¡¯s expression, so Chen Zhengqing asked, ¡°What did you discover, Xiaofan?¡±

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°Apart from them, other prestigious ns from neighboring cities have also conspired against us under their influence and threats. But rest assured, Father, I''m aware of these ns. They won''t escape me."

    ......

    That night was a sleepless one for some cities near Watermoon City.

    Chen Fan had wrought havoc upon the traitorous ns. Alone, he stormed these ns, leaving a trail of blood in his wake.

    The Watermoon City itself was shaken when it was revealed that even the L¨· n was also involved in this treachery.

    Chen Zhengqing led countless armor-d private troops and experts, rushing into the L¨· n like wolves and tigers. They dragged out the L¨· n members one by one, tied them up, and confiscated their assets amidst the cacophony of their anguished cries.

    Throughout the night, fear gripped the hearts of other prestigious ns as they awaited their fate.

    In the study, Chen Zhengqing listened to his subordinates¡¯ reports one by one, overseeing the seizure of the L¨· n''s assets. He nodded to himself, in a great mood.

    A huge crisis was resolved just like that.

    Chen Fan returned that very night after dealing with the traitorous ns in the nearby cities. For him, wiping out a prestigious n was simply too easy.

    ¡°Father, I¡¯ve treated Grandfather¡¯s injuries with life essence. He''ll recover fully soon. I¡¯ll be going to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range to cultivate, but I¡¯ll leave a humanoid true primeval in the n. I¡¯ll know immediately if something happens.¡±

    Although the n''s crisis was resolved, the threat of another attack from Duan Jingtian loomed. If he remained outside, they would assume he was protecting the n and wouldn¡¯t attack.

    ¡°Xiaofan, you have to be careful when you enter the depths of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range,¡± Chen Zhengqing advised.

    He could no longer see through Chen Fan. The depth of Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation surpassed Chen Zhengqing¡¯s by countless times. So, he did not worry too much about Chen Fan¡¯s safety.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±

    Chen Fan stood up. Suddenly, a humanoid true primeval condensed and took shape in front of him. It bore an uncanny resemnce to him, mirroring his every movement wlessly.

    Although it was inferior to the merit elder¡¯s external incarnation, it was much stronger than ordinary humanoid true primeval. It was as strong as those at the third level of the Core Formation realm.

    Chen Fan had nned for everything. With his preparationsplete, he soared into the sky and vanished from sight with a swift whoosh.

 Chapter 450 - Corpse King Formation

    <h4>Chapter 450 - Corpse King Formation</h4>

    Chen Fan came to the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range and boldly pushed forward.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    He startled the jiangshi and skeletons, roused from decades, if not centuries, of slumber.

    He was much stronger now,pared to when he first came here. He unleashed a palm strike, and a terrifying force washed over the space like a long river. The jiangshi and skeletons were powerless to resist and were smashed into smithereens one after another.

    Undeterred, Chen Fan pressed onward. His cultivation used to be low, so some ten-thousand-year corpse kings had escaped his notice then. However, they had no way of hiding from him now.

    With a single gesture, he unearthed a mountain, reducing both it and the ancient corpse king slumbering in its bronze coffin to rubble.

    These powerful beings¡ªhigh-level Yuanfu realm experts¡ªfell like mere pawns before Chen Fan''s might.

    As if the ten-thousand-year corpse kings weren¡¯t enough, Chen Fan¡¯s senses spread out and prated deep into the earth, which was connected like a maze. However, its power could no longer block off Chen Fan¡¯s probing.

    Chen Fan stomped heavily on the ground, creating a huge hollow with a rumble. He jumped right in.

    Soon, the distant underground blew up and dirt flew everywhere. Chen Fan emerged from there, eliminating the ten-thousand-year-old corpse king in the underground maze.

    ¡°Awesome. I sure missed many ten-thousand-year corpse kings back then. Every one of them was incredibly powerful. If they were to run out, they would have caused great destruction in the world!¡±

    Chen Fan was in a good mood.

    He seemed like an unbeatable existence in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, thanks to his strength. He slew numerous ten-thousand-year corpse kings with an unstoppable momentum, umting great karma. Perhaps his tribtions in the future would be just a bit less powerful.

    <i>Scree!</i>

    A sharp whistle suddenly rang out in space, makingyers of nefarious and corpse qi in the distance erupt. A sound wave was darting toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Interesting, there¡¯s actually Core Formation realm corpse kings here!¡±

    With a casual smack, Chen Fan destroyed those oing soundwaves. The earth in the distance burst open, and a jiangshi covered with purple hair emerged. It also had a pair of long, blood-sucking fangs at the corners of its mouth, looking hideously terrifying.

    This was a purple-gold jiangshi¡ªa king among jiangshi. The corpse qi around it formed a cloud-like mist. It was likely thirty thousand years old, which helped it reach the Core Formation realm.

    ¡°Human, you deserve to die a thousand deaths for ughtering my people!¡± said the purple-gold jiangshi king.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°You and your kind bring harm even in death, turning others into jiangshi and whatnot. I merely cleanse the world of your malice and earn a bit of karma for my service. So, you will join your ¡°people¡± soon.¡±

    ¡°Your arrogance knows no bounds, human!¡± The purple-gold jiangshi king was enraged.

    The jiangshi king roared, and the surrounding mountains blew up, along with the ground. A tempest of corpse qi surged, stirring the very clouds.

    Numerous jiangshi kings emerged¡ªall as strong as the purple jiangshi.

    ¡°Well, thank you foring out. It saves me the trouble of finding you guyster. I can just kill you all now.¡±

    Aside from the Core Formation realm jiangshi kings, many Yuanfu realm corpse kings had also emerged, arranged like soldiers behind the purple-gold jiangshi king. They formed formations capable of challenging even a Core Formation realm expert.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan did not say much. He brandished his iron spear, breaking the sound barrier as he charged forward. A trail of white air streamed behind him, the thunderous noise echoing like distant thunder.

    ¡°Little ones, go bring down that damned human!¡± roared the purple-gold jiangshi king. Its terrifying corpse qi rushed to the skies. Streaks of purple-gold light shot out like divine weapons, hoping to riddle Chen Fan.

    However, with a shake of his arm, Chen Fan swept the iron spear across, shattering these purple-gold lights.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡± Chen Fan closed in on a purple jiangshi, striking it down effortlessly. This first-level Core Formation realm jiangshi fell, its core now Chen Fan''s prize.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The purple-gold jiangshi king was furious, as it hadn¡¯t expected to lose a general so early. It roared repeatedly, and corpse qi surged and rushed toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan did not try to fight the purple-gold jiangshi king directly. Instead, he ughtered his way into the corpse king formation.

    Thrusting his spear, Chen Fan unleashed a torrential force akin to a mountain flood, shattering the corpse king formation and killing the Yuanfu realm kings with ease.

    Chen Fan was like an unrivaled master, wielding his iron spear, seemingly capable of killing any gods or Buddhas standing in his way. Every spear thrust would kill numerous corpse kings, further enraging the purple-gold jiangshi king, whose futile protests echoed endlessly.

    He destroyed numerous corpse king formations In the blink of an eye. The only evidence left to prove that they were once corpse kings was their corpse cores.

    The purple jiangshi kings¡ªthe Core Formation realm experts¡ªalso fell one after another, failing to withstand Chen Fan¡¯s power.

    ¡°Damn it! The remaining purple jiangshi kings, form a corpse king formation and follow me to annihte this damned human!¡±

    The purple-gold jiangshi king, now trailing behind Chen Fan, finally grasped the gravity of the situation. The remaining purple jiangshi kings hastily assembled, forming a formidable Core Formation realm formation.

    A wave of destructive power surged toward Chen Fan, infused with the evil energies of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good timing. Today, I will cleanse the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range of its threats by eradicating all demons and devils, and restore peace to this world!¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid as he faced the formidable formation of purple jiangshi kings. His aura instantly skyrocketed, shaking the heavens. All the nearby nefarious qi and corpse qi dissipated, seemingly having met their nemesis.

    Under the purple-gold jiangshi king¡¯s lead, the remaining dozen or so purple jiangshi kings channeled their cultivation in unison. Corpse qi surged, covering the skies and the sun. A bone spear dripping with fresh blood appeared amid the corpse king formation.

    This bone spear seemed forged from the bones of gods or spirits, entwined with nefarious qi. Ghosts of those who had died unjustly appeared,unching mental attacks aimed at Chen Fan''s soul.

    ¡°Kill!¡± roared the purple-gold jiangshi king. The blood-dripping bone spear locked onto Chen Fan and flew toward him.

    Looking from afar, it was like a huge pir trying to crush a fly.

    Chen Fan felt some pressure and his eyes flickered. ¡°Interesting!¡±

    The bone spear exuded a terrifying power capable of disintegrating even a third-level Core Formation realm expert. This spear could kill even those at the seventh level.

    It was no wonder that the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range could exist until now. After all, it could threaten even Core Formation realm experts.

    Its environment here was too treacherous for martial artists. If one just tried to clear it thoughtlessly, their true primeval would be exhausted. Facing the attacks of the corpse king formations, the purple jiangshi kings, and the purple-gold jiangshi king, one could do nothing but regret their actions.

 Chapter 451 - Space Tunnel

    <h4>Chapter 451 - Space Tunnel</h4>

    As the blood-dripping bone spear descended, it seemed to carry the weight of an ancient divine mountain, pressing down on Chen Fan with terrifying force.

    Chen Fan revolved his cultivation technique, and his true primeval erupted. With a burst of strength, he shouldered the force bearing down on him, rose to the sky, and met the bone spear head-on with his iron spear.

    ¡°Hmph, break for me!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The iron spear and the bone spear collided, and the nearby space distorted, generating ripples that grew increasingly intense, gradually forming wavy folds.

    Terrifying shockwaves swept out, and even Chen Fan was pushed back repeatedly by this frightening power. His qi and blood shook crazily.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The shockwaves devastated thendscape, reducing mountains to rubble in their wake.

    <i>Whoa, whoa, whoa.</i>

    The purple-gold jiangshi king¡¯s corpse king formation felt the brunt of the destructive impact. Weaker purple jiangshi kings couldn''t withstand the recoil and exploded into nothingness

    <i>Crack, crack, crack, crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Cracks spidered across the blood-dripping bone spear, multiplying until it shattered into countless fragments.

    ¡°What other tricks do you have? If that¡¯s all you have, you will all have to die!¡±

    Wielding the iron spear in hand, Chen Fan was unstoppable, as if he could never be defeated.

    The purple-gold jiangshi king¡¯s eyes trembled in disbelief. Never had he imagined that a brat like Chen Fan would be able to destroy the bone spear¡ªformed through the joint effort of numerous purple jiangshi kings.

    The purple-gold jiangshi king finally realized that his opponent was the real freak here.

    ¡°Little ones, run!¡±

    Chen Fan was fighting them in their home ground, a ce filled with evil qi, yet his aura was as robust as ever. How did that make sense?

    The Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range¡¯s unique environment was free of primeval qi. Instead, this ce was saturated with nefarious qi, Yin qi, and various energies that martial artists couldn¡¯t absorb, but jiangshi and skeletons could.

    So, martial artists couldn¡¯t replenish their energy here if it were exhausted, which was no different from skinny-dipping in a volcano.

    ¡°Still thinking of escaping?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly when he noticed that the purple-gold corpse king was about to flee. He quickly gave chase.

    He was incredibly fast. The Wings of Rain Dragon swept down, repelling all the nefarious qi and corpse qi. In the blink of an eye, he caught up to the slowest purple jiangshi king and killed it with a spear thrust.

    Chen Fan continued giving chase, ying several more purple jiangshi kings.

    <i>The space ahead seems distorted. </i>

    He continued flying forward; soon, he saw something ahead spewing out corpse qi, nefarious qi, evil qi, Yin qi, and other very evil energies non-stop.

    <i>What is that?</i> As Chen Fan chased the purple-gold jiangshi king, he stumbled upon a tunnel whose destination remained a mystery.

    However, the purple-gold jiangshi king didn¡¯t think much about it. It looked at Chen Fan with hatred and jumped headlong into that space, disappearing. The remaining handful of purple jiangshi kings quickly followed suit.

    Chen Fan narrowed his gaze as he surveyed the tunnel''s entrance.

    The evil qi and the power of distortion suddenly grew fiercer.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    A spatial fluctuation sliced through the air, effortlessly piercing through Chen Fan''s protective true primeval and leaving marks on his skin

    His physique was as strong as a Grade-3 weapon; still, the fluctuation managed to leave a mark on his skin. A mere fluctuation had such terrifying power, capable of cleaving even a Core Formation realm expert in half.

    After all, not every Core Formation realm expert¡¯s physique was as monstrously tough as his.

    Within that raging air current, Chen Fan could see that this tunnel seemed like the mouth of a ferocious beast that devoured people. Once one entered the tunnel, they would be devoured and meet their end.

    <i>I didn¡¯t expect there to be such a mysterious tunnel at the deepest part of the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. I wonder what the situation beyond the tunnel is like?</i>

    Chen Fan stood outside the tunnel, staring fixedly and not daring to make any reckless moves.

    Although he was confident in his strength, he wasn¡¯t conceited to the point of thinking he was unrivaled in the world and could barge in everywhere.

    What if the tunnel led to a terrifying trap?

    What if he couldn¡¯t leave after entering?

    Suddenly, he condensed a lightning humanoid true primeval with all his energy and made it enter the space tunnel.

    A humanoid true primeval could lock onto the soul over a long distance. If the humanoid true primeval could traverse through the tunnel and return, it meant that this tunnel was safe.

    Chen Fan could see everything happening inside through the humanoid true primeval.

    As the humanoid true primeval vanished into the tunnel, Chen Fan sensed a vast and deste world shrouded in gloom. The air crackled with powerful demonic qi, while myriad demonic thoughts intertwined in an eerie dance.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Hemanded the humanoid true primeval to return from the tunnel. A grave expression showed on his face.

    Chen Fan had seen a barren and gloomy world, covered in a deadly atmosphere, full of decay.

    A gray, blurry fog was everywhere. He saw no vegetation, and there weren¡¯t any signs of human activities, either. All he saw was a quagmire, and rotting swamps everywhere,rge bubbles bulging up from them and bursting with a bang, releasing even more gray, blurry fog.

    This fog seemed to carry some sort of demonic nature, moving unsteadily and condensing into various hideous faces.

    Kekekeke!

    Kikikiki...

    Through the humanoid true primeval, white bone jiangshi and devilish beings emerged from the murky depths, absorbing the demonic qi and emitting eerie noises as they traversed thendscape.

    <i>Exactly what kind of world is in there?</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered. His reason told him to never go in there, but his curiosity was a little too strong to hold back,pelling him to uncover the mysteries hidden within.

    <i>Whatever, I¡¯ll go in and see what¡¯s happening!</i>

    With resolve in his heart, Chen Fan plunged into the tunnel, disappearing in a sh as he embarked on his journey into the unknown.

    After enduring the disorienting sensations of sinking, floating, and spatial fluctuations, Chen Fan found himself stepping on solid ground. He had entered an extremely strange world.

    This world was filled with a gloomy aura. Extremely powerful evil qi and demonic qi were spread out in heaven and earth.

    Looking around him, swamps were everywhere. White bone jiangshi crawled out, devils were born from the air bubbles. Chen Fan even saw gray castles built in the far distance.

 Chapter 452 - Blood Corpse Demon King

    <h4>Chapter 452 - Blood Corpse Demon King</h4>

    The oppressive gloom of this world permeated every inch of space, thick with evil energy and demonic qi.

    Barrennds stretched t and forlorn, littered only with small rocks and swathes of mud and swamps. Chen Fan soon noticed that those swamps had fresh blood instead of ck mud. He could even see skulls floating in those fresh blood swamps.

    asionally, air bubbles surfaced in them, igniting into ghostly mes that burned with a turquoise hue. It was ghost fire.

    These ghost fires danced and flickered, sometimes transforming into human faces or taking the form of demonic spirits. The swamps were the root of all these devils.

    ¡°These fresh blood swamps are producing devils non-stop. How is that possible? This space is unfathomable. Let¡¯s not go too deep. I must tread cautiously and gather information while remaining vignt.¡±

    The fresh blood swamps were everywhere, birthing countless ghost fire devils. In the distance, dusky yet ominous castles loomed, inhabited by legions of devils. Waves of powerful aura emanated from these fortresses, signaling the presence of great devils.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    Many devils had sensed Chen Fan, so they swarmed toward him like hungry flies drawn to fresh blood, and the ghost fires burned in excitement.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan summoned a vortex of true primeval, pulling the devils toward him and consuming them to fuel himself.

    ¡°Heaven Seizing Furnace, heaven refining sacred mes.¡±

    However, these devils were all weak and failed to bring any significant growth. He needed those Yuanfu realm and Core Formation realm great devils to sate his appetite.

    He walked on the fresh blood swamp, pulling all the ghost fires into him on his way.

    Thanks to the Heaven Seizing Furnace, he was cultivating here fasterpared to outside. If Chen Fan came across some great devils, it would be equal to absorbing a drop from the Fountain of Life.

    In mere moments, thousands of devils were drawn into the depths of Chen Fan¡¯s dantian. His sea of qi seemed to have be a true hell.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace revolved furiously. The magma rolled and churned, and the heaven-refining mes surged, burning for eternity.

    All the devils entered purgatory. They wailed and cried, wanting to escape, but it was all futile. The powerful heaven-refining mes thoroughly annihted them.

    Chen Fan seemed to be enjoying a feast as he strolled through the area.

    These devils contained the purest life-origin essence. They were ten times better than the evil spirits born from the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    These devils were a disaster for everyone; for Chen Fan, they were a luxurious, full-course meal.

    Chen Fan purified severalrge fresh blood swamps, but his actions seemed to have angered a great devil hiding deep underground. With a sudden furious roar, a gigantic devil appeared.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    This devil was also a spirit, but its form seemed highly condensed and it was massive. Moreover, his mes were crimson, instead of the usual turquoise color.

    In the blink of an eye, its aura surged, and its form kept shrinking, transforming into a man adorned in blood-colored robes. His shrunken face bore a piercing gaze fixed upon Chen Fan, and he asked, ¡°Where are you from? How dare you barge into the Blood Flesh Swamp and kill those devils. Aren¡¯t you scared of being used in a blood sacrifice?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at this blood-colored devil and asked lightly, ¡°Who are you?¡±

    "I am the Blood Corpse Demon King, guardian of the Blood Flesh Swamp," the devil responded. His eyes swept over Chen Fan before turning to nce at the distant space tunnel.

    ¡°For over ten thousand years, I have stood watch over the Tunnel of Death in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. It has remained undisturbed until today. Normally, intruders die in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. It¡¯s a juicy job out there; some jiangshi devils there have devoured many people¡¯s vitality and blood. Today, it¡¯s finally my turn.¡±

    The Blood Corpse Demon King looked at Chen Fan like he was looking at a luxurious feast.

    The purple-gold jiangshi king suddenly emerged from a fresh blood swamp, staring at Chen Fan hatefully. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate him, Blood Corpse Demon King, he killed most of my subordinates in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. This guy has some tricks and isn¡¯t afraid of the corrosion of the nefarious qi and corpse qi. Also, his cultivation is unusually deep and rich. You don¡¯t want to mess up here.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± The Blood Corpse Demon King was shocked and replied, ¡°You¡¯re really useless. You had such a good job, but you actually lost the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. Don¡¯t you know you¡¯re messing up Master¡¯s ns? You¡¯ll be thrown into boiling oil for that!¡±

    The purple-gold jiangshi king said, ¡°What else could I have done? My subordinates and I activated the corpse king formation and summoned the blood-dripping bone spear, but he destroyed it. We were no match for him, so I had toe in here to seek help.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>," the Blood Corpse Demon King sneered. "I had wondered why you brought back a few purple jiangshi kings so suddenly. Now it is clear¡ªyou were kicked in here by a brat.¡±

    ¡°Rest assured. Since this brat came in here, there¡¯s no way he will make it out alive. But you lost the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. Master will surely punish you severely. And with that, I may have an opportunity to rece you and revel in the outside world once more," said the Blood Corpse Demon King, smiling sinisterly.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you want to rece me? That will have to wait until we kill this brat first.¡± The purple-gold jiangshi king snorted coldly.

    Chen Fan was greatly shocked inside as he heard their conversation.

    This otherworldly space, Blood Flesh Swamp, had an owner. Not only that, this owner seemed to be an extremely powerful figure, and the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range was created by this mysterious figure.

    "Brat, once you''ve entered the realm of the Blood Flesh Swamp, there''s no escaping!" dered the Blood Corpse Demon King ominously. Suddenly, he made a move.

    A blood-colored whip appeared in the air.

    <i>Smack!</i>

    A smacking noise rang out in space from ash. The blood-colored whip swept toward Chen Fan ferociously, carrying the power of the Blood Demon Cultivation Technique. It resembled the Blood Shadow Divine Whip technique practiced by blood demons.

    Chen Fan had long since noticed that this Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s cultivation was above the purple-gold jiangshi king¡¯s, reaching the eighth level. He was as powerful as Elder Liehuo.

    His expression became grave, as he didn¡¯t know if there were even stronger devils here.

    ¡°Break for me!¡±

    Chen Fan wielded his iron spear, mes licking its tip as he shattered the blood shadows.

    Simultaneously, he executed a Bloody Sr Halo, stabbing at the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s spirit¡ªthe source of his energy. [1]

    1. No such martial art in Chen Fan¡¯s arsenal. The author is describing the rare phenomenon, Sr Halo, and changing one of its words to blood to describe how Chen Fan is aiming for the demon king¡¯s core. Check this out. https://earthsky.org/upl/2018/09/halo-sundogs-more-9-4-2018-Martin-Male-Yellowknife-Northwest-Territories-CN-e1536167898336.jpg ?

 Chapter 453 - Blood-Filled World

    <h4>Chapter 453 - Blood-Filled World</h4>

    The Blood Corpse Demon King proved to be an exceptionally troublesome foe. His indistinct qi and formidable power made his attacks sharp and elusive.

    ¡°Blood-Filled World!¡±

    The Blood Corpse Demon King was also very shocked by Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan, despite being at the sixth level, disyed a strength that rivaled his own. Each of his powerful techniques was effortlessly neutralized and shattered by Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear.

    It wasn¡¯t the first time someone had barged into the Blood Flesh Swamp, but it was the first time someone had survived this long. After all, they all became a meal for him quickly; among those ingredients, there was nock of eighth-level experts.

    Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear, its tip alight with heaven-refining mes, seared through the Blood Corpse Demon King''s evil energy, nearly dispersing his corpse qi and blood qi.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, human cultivator, I didn¡¯t expect you to be so strong. Surely, you must be a genius disciple of one of those sects outside. That¡¯s good. I will treat your blood essence as the essence of an eighth-level expert.¡±

    A sinister, bloody light shed from the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s be and shot into the sky.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    Many of the fresh blood swamps on the ground started boiling. Thick pirs of fresh blood shot up, merged to form an enormous ball and enveloped Chen Fan.

    ¡°Nine-Nine Blood God, Boundless Blood Sea!¡±

    The Blood Corpse Demon King swayed, splitting into nine figures, each positioned around the blood sphere, striking with various palm seals.

    Instantly, blood-colored mes erupted from the sphere, burning the void until it began to copse.

    Such a spectacle didn¡¯t emanate from the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s strength alone¡ªhe was using a formation. The nearby fresh blood swamps were set up in a way to form a blood formation to trap others and amplify the Demon King¡¯s strength.

    Chen Fan immediately felt immense pressure.

    <i>Luckily, my cultivation technique has a great suppressive effect on demons and evils. Otherwise, confronting the Blood Corpse Demon King within this blood formation would have been an immense struggle.</i>

    The blood mes surged toward Chen Fan like towering mountains, generating a mysterious force field that sought to crush him. He had to go all out.

    ¡°Break for me!¡±

    His four illusory golden cores revolved and hummed, unleashing tremendous strength and pushing his aura to the peak.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    With lightning speed, he thrust his spear forward, each strike resembling a zing sun, capable of rending heaven and earth. All strikes were aimed at the blood formation.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Immediately, a series of explosions rang out, and the space tumbled like the waves. The blood formation shook violently, cracks forming as the entire structure teetered on the brink of copse.

    ¡°Hahahaha, brat. To force me to use the Blood-Filled World, I have to admit, you¡¯re quite capable. But inside this formation, my blood prison mes will make you feel your bones melt and your marrow evaporate. Just wait patiently as you dissolve; there''s no way you can break this formation!¡±

    Despite the violent shaking caused by Chen Fan''s attacks, the Blood Corpse Demon King remained unfazed

    This formation was connected to the powers of several fresh blood swamps¡ªthe energy sources of the Blood Flesh Swamp. A formation formed from such robust energy could be broken that easily.

    Still, the Demon King had to acknowledge Chen Fan¡¯s impressive strength, which managed to shake up the blood formation. He continued channeling energy to maximize the formation''s power.

    <i>A chance, right now!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan detected a slight w in the formation''s aura and seized the opportunity. He transformed into a streak of light as he flew toward it. A space-time phenomenon appeared behind him, with ancient giant elephants lumbering, theirbined strength cutting through everything in their path.

    Chen Fan''s arm moved with incredible speed, his spear thrusting in a precise, jagged pattern. Each movement was deliberate, cutting and shaking thousands of times in a single breath.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    A white thread of terrifying force cut through the bloody mes and struck the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s nine figures with blinding speed, cleaving each one in half.

    The Blood Corpse Demon King had split himself into nine parts, so each part individually wasn¡¯t as strong as someone at the peak of the sixth level. How could someone that weak withstand Chen Fan¡¯s stabs?

    ¡°Ah! You damned brat!¡± The Blood Corpse Demon King was shocked and furious.

    If he hadn¡¯t split himself into nine parts, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t have injured him that grievously. Even after Chen Fan had destroyed all of his nine silhouettes, he didn¡¯t die but was severely weakened.

    The Blood-Filled World formation was also broken. Chen Fan¡¯s heaven-refining mes pierced into the Demon King. A trace of these mes even seeped into his spirit, burning his soul and causing excruciating pain.

    ¡°Blood Demon Dispersal, All Primeval Force!¡±

    The destroyed silhouettes transformed into nine drops of blood qi and united. It tried to purge the heaven-refining mes.

    However, there was no way Chen Fan would let that happen!

    Chen Fan appeared above the Blood Corpse Demon King; suddenly, the silhouettes of ten thousand ancient giant elephants appeared, trampling through space-time. Theirbined strength formed a long river of power, shaking the very fabric of reality.

    He executed his strongest killing move once more¡ªthe Strength of Myriad Elephants!

    With a tremendous burst of power, the long river swept forward, guided by Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear. It crashed into the Blood Corpse Demon King and destroyed his newly reformed spirit body.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± The Blood Corpse Demon King let out a mournful, miserable scream. He felt as if his soul had been torn apart, feeling like he was about to die.

    Chen Fan did not hold back in his following attack either.

    The Blood Corpse Demon King scattered like dust from the pummeling, unable to re-create himself. Under Chen Fan¡¯s constant barrage of attacks, he was being slowly worn down. He tried moving left and right to escape, but he failed repeatedly.

    ¡°Ah! How are you so strong! You¡¯re only at the sixth level! How could you be a match for me? Who exactly are you?!¡± roared the Blood Corpse Demon King furiously in horror.

    Chen Fan sneered coldly and said, ¡°Who am I? I¡¯m the person who will kill you! You devils have created the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range, seeking opportunities to harm innocent people. Your evil knows no bounds, and I won¡¯t spare you. I¡¯ll destroy as many of you as I can."

    A threat like the Blood Corpse Demon King, if left unchecked, would plunge the world into chaos.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation technique restrained his opponent, allowing him to kill the Blood Corpse Demon King and umte great karma.

    If it had been Elder Liehuo instead, Chen Fan knew he wouldn''t have been able to suppress such a powerful foe.

 Chapter 454 - What a Massive Head

    <h4>Chapter 454 - What a Massive Head</h4>

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to bother with knowing my identity. Just know one thing: I am the antithesis of you devils. You desire to hurt people andmit evil, so know that I am out there just waiting to kill everyst one of you.¡±

    Chen Fan put his hands in the form of Buddhist seals and continuously sent out Great Brahma Sacred Palms. It contained boundless golden light and the power of Buddhism, which could purify all evil in the world, purifying the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s blood mes.

    ¡°Ahhh! Damn it, how dare you try to kill me! Master won¡¯t let you off!¡±

    The Blood Corpse Demon King truly felt the horror of death.

    His blood mes danced wildly as he cried miserably, failing to break free from Chen Fan¡¯s prison.

    ¡°You! Are you just gonna enjoy the show?! Get here and help!¡± roared the Blood Corpse Demon King, ordering the purple-gold jiangshi king to take action. If this continued, he would die at Chen Fan¡¯s hand.

    The purple-gold jiangshi king was hiding in a blood swamp. He had seen the entire fight, aware of how Chen Fan had worn down the Blood Corpse Demon King.

    Hearing the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s roar, it rushed out with a ssh and attacked Chen Fan ferociously, hoping to rescue the other demon.

    Chen Fan dismissed the purple-gold jiangshi king with a backhanded palm strike. ¡°Get lost!¡±

    A terrifying force swept out, shattering the purple-gold jiangshi king¡¯s attack and sending him rolling over the ground.

    The purple-gold jiangshi king was a tad weaker than the merit elder. Chen Fan had used every devil he hade across in the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range to supplement his cultivation. So, he was now at the peak of the sixth level.

    True primeval surged through Chen Fan like a vast, powerful river. His iron spear could seemingly hold up the sky and pierce through space and time. It dissipated the surrounding corpse qi, nefarious qi, and demonic qi.

    The Blood Corpse Demon King roared again, ¡°Blood Emperor¡¯s Descent, Ruling the Universe!¡±

    From the blood mes emerged a blood emperor, d in a blood-red royal robe and crown, exuding a mighty and formidable aura. It emerged from the underworld and set off boundless blood waves, creating a vast blood sea.

    Chen Fan recognized that the Blood Corpse Demon King was going all out, unleashing his ultimate move. The battle was reaching its climax.

    ¡°Blood Explosion!¡±

    ¡°Blood Lightning!¡±

    Masses of blood mes and fresh blood condensed into blood-colored lightning, detonating with terrifying force. The shockwaves churned Chen Fan¡¯s qi and blood, nearly wrenching his iron spear from his grasp.

    Meanwhile, the purple-gold jiangshi king got his bearings back and attacked again, working with the Blood Corpse Demon King to suppress and kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hand of Death, Grappling Heaven and Earth!¡± [1]

    The purple-gold jiangshi king unleashed a surge of shocking corpse qi. This grayish-white qi, tinged with a hint of purple, transformed into a terrifying withered palm that seemed to crush space-time itself as if it aimed to capture heaven and earth in one grasp.

    Chen Fan felt a strong sense of crisis but didn¡¯t feel afraid; instead, he felt excited.

    ¡°Good timing, I¡¯m not afraid of you people!¡±

    His qi erupted crazily, reaching the clouds. He pushed his golden core to the limit and golden light burst from his head.

    ¡°Strength of Myriad Elephants!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s arms swelled, like he had steel tendons and iron bones, as he unleashed the might of ten thousand elephants once more to thrust his iron spear. The backhanded thrust shook the entire Blood Flesh Swamp.

    Simultaneously, he formed a Buddhist seal with his left hand. The power of his golden core surged, moving through a unique route inside him.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm!¡±

    Golden light radiated from the center of his palm, and the silhouette of a Buddha appeared behind him. It raised its hand and pressed down, shining with boundless golden light.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The iron spear¡¯s terrifying strength erupted, stabbing the Hand of Death and shattering it. It didn¡¯t stop there and flew toward the purple-gold jiangshi king.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    The purple-gold jiangshi king failed to react in time and was impaled by the iron spear, suspended in mid-air. A tremendous force erupted, blowing the jiangshi king apart and leaving only a corpse core the size of a baby¡¯s head.

    The Great Brahma Sacred Palm simultaneously pressed down, suppressing and crushing the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s attacks. It also shattered the blood emperor¡¯s silhouette that the Blood Corpse Demon King had summoned.

    ¡°Heaven Seizing Furnace, out!¡± Chen Fan roared. Divine light intertwined behind him, forming the Heaven Seizing Furnace. It descended and instantly swallowed the Blood Corpse Demon King.

    The power of heaven refining erupted instantly, making the Blood Corpse Demon King scream miserably.

    Chen Fan sat on the Heaven Seizing Furnace and channeled his cultivation technique, refining non-stop. Despite the Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s desperate attempts, his true primeval energy and determination remained unshaken.

    Their battle had unleashed terrifying fluctuations and force ripples; they left the Blood Flesh Swamp shaken. Deep within this space, the ttering of chains suddenly echoed.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    The entire otherworldly space experienced a drastic change all of a sudden.

    Chen Fan sensed an impending danger, his mind tightening with unease.

    He immediately mmed his palm on the Heaven Seizing Furnace, suppressing the Blood Corpse Demon King, and withdrew it into his dantian.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A deafening noise rang out in space as if the lord of heaven was furious. Thunderps rumbled, as if terrifying divine punishment was about to descend into the world to destroy it.

    The noise was so intense that Chen Fan¡¯s mind nked, buzzing uncontrobly.

    He then saw chains flickering with divine light appearing in the void. An aura that made even his soul tremble emanated from these nine chains,pelling him to kneel in worship.

    However, Chen Fan gritted his teeth stubbornly and held on, sweat pouring down like rain.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Suddenly, two slits cracked open in the void. These slits seemed to contain two suns, emitting an iparably dazzling light.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Chen Fan cried out, immediately shutting his eyes as trails of bloody tears flowed down.

    <i>tter, tter...</i>

    The sound of the chains colliding became more frequent and increasingly louder.

    Chen Fan shut his eyes tightly. After a while, the stabbing pain finally faded a bit. He drove his true primeval to his eyes and slowly opened them. What he saw next was a sight he would never forget.

    An enormous head appeared in the void, asrge as a star. Nine chains of divine light stabbed into the head from different directions, suspending it in the air.

    The other end of the divine light chains faded into the depths of nothingness, their destinations unknown.

    The two slits Chen Fan had seen earlier were actually the eyes of this enormous head. The blinding suns were the pupils of this colossal entity.

    ¡°This... this...¡±

    Chen Fan was instantly stunned by the sight, his mind reeling. Hepletely forgot to think as his thoughts copsed under the overwhelming shock of what he was seeing.

    1. Fun fact: Zhao Gao, a member of the Tianxia Society, also used the Hand of Death in chapter 214, but without that grappling heaven and earth part. Is this a hint, or is this pure coincidence? ?

 Chapter 455 - A Narrow Escape

    <h4>Chapter 455 - A Narrow Escape</h4>

    ¡°This... this...¡± Chen Fan was rendered speechless, the sight before him robbing him of the ability to think.

    All the devils in the entire Blood Flesh Swamp knelt, performing the most devout prayer.

    <i>tter!</i>

    The divine light chains moved and ttered again, snapping Chen Fan out of his stupor.

    Even shackled by the chains, the head¡¯s aura made Chen Fan feel like an ant, extremely tiny and insignificant. He felt like the head could kill him with a thought.

    ¡°Hmm, brat, I didn¡¯t expect you to barge into the Blood Flesh Swamp and even y this emperor¡¯s subordinates!¡± A grand, majestic will descended, condemning Chen Fan for his actions.

    Chen Fan felt his limbs turn ice-cold. He had not expected such a terrifying entity to exist in this otherworldly space.

    His thoughts quickly recovered, and he realized that the nine chains of divine light were likely a form of sealing power, sealing and suppressing this head here.

    The power this head possessed was unimaginable, but it was most certainly above the Divine Nascent realm or the Heavenly Star realm, perhaps even greater.

    After all, if it were his head that had been chopped off, he would have died long ago.

    Experts at the Divine Nascent realm created a divine nascent. It could help them be reborn after their fleshly body died by means of possession of another¡¯s body.

    However, this entity had not been reborn by possession. Instead, it remained as a head, suppressed here. Such a feat was beyond the capabilities of a Divine Nascent realm martial artist, and perhaps even beyond the Heavenly Star realm.

    Chen Fan had encountered a Heavenly Star realm expert before. Daoist Corpse Spirit, a powerhouse at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm, had been suppressed for three thousand years. The Heavenly Yang Sacred Water had corroded his body, so he wanted to possess Chen Fan to be reborn.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Chen Fan asked cautiously. His mind raced, calcting frantically.

    He felt bitter, as he hadn¡¯t expected the otherworldly space to be this dangerous. The presence of this head made it impossible for him to even think about resisting. When he had encountered the Blood Corpse Demon King, the opponent had been strong but at least Chen Fan didn¡¯t feel as weak as an ant.

    ¡°Who am I? You¡¯re not qualified to know!¡±

    Another majestic will smashed into Chen Fan¡¯s mind, carrying immense pride and contempt. The entity seemed to consider Chen Fan''s question an insult, deeming him unworthy of knowing its name.

    ¡°Since Senior is unwilling to tell me your name, then I apologize for the intrusion. I will take my leave now. Please excuse me, Senior," Chen Fan said nervously.

    This was by far the closest he hade to death in his life. He needed to be especially careful, as if treading on thin ice.

    ¡°You want to leave just like that?¡± A mocking voice echoed in Chen Fan¡¯s mind, causing him to stiffen.

    Chen Fan¡¯s mind worked as fast as lightning. He immediately swept out, flying toward the tunnel.

    ¡°Mere ant, actually thinking of escaping in front of me? What a joke! If I don¡¯t let you leave, not even the supreme god could save you. If I want you dead, you won¡¯t live past midnight!"

    A tyrannical will descended upon him, binding him in ce. His qi stopped circting, and the paralyzing fear of death struck his heart.

    <i>I¡¯m done for! </i>Those words appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    This massive head only needed its powerful will to confine the space. In front of him, Chen Fan was like an ant, utterly powerless and without any means to resist.

    ¡°Ant, since you killed my subordinates, you take over Blood Corpse Demon King¡¯s position and stand guard here. Now, I¡¯ll use the Blood Flesh Swamp¡¯s power to transform you into a blood corpse!¡±

    Ten thousand years ago, the Blood Corpse Demon King used to be an exceptional genius in the Tianwu Continent. He coincidentally entered the otherworldly space-time and ughtered numerous devils. His actions disturbed the head, so he refined the genius into a blood corpse.

    Now, Chen Fan was about to meet the same fate.

    The nearby fresh blood swamps began boiling, bubbling with blood bubbles. Guided by a force, the blood gathered in the air, forming a blood-colored finger that flew toward Chen Fan¡¯s be.

    A terrifying power restrained Chen Fan, so he couldn¡¯t move an inch. Even his thoughts were restrained.

    However, heaven and earth changed colors moments before the finger could pierce Chen Fan¡¯s be.

    A terrifying golden light suddenly burst out from Chen Fan¡¯s be, dyeing this otherworldly space golden and melting that blood-colored finger like snow.

    A small figure, radiating a golden glow, emerged from Chen Fan''s be, their gender obscured by the shimmering light. Suddenly, they opened their eyes, unleashing a majestic divine power that pierced through the dark, otherworldly space. Under this golden radiance, the devils,rge and small, screamed and vanished.

    The entire space shook under this divine might, akin to a god''s retribution upon those who dared defy it.

    The head, which had beenmunicating with his thoughts all along, was shocked into speaking with his mouth, his voice filled with horror and astonishment.

    ¡°Ah... this is... god¡ª¡±

    He couldn¡¯t finish speaking as the small golden person spoke up.

    Though they didn''t use humannguage, their words resonated with nobility, purity, and holiness, inspiring awe and reverence in all who heard them.

    This was thenguage of gods!

    Each word pulsated with golden light and power that suppressed the world. They flew toward the massive head, making him let out miserable screams.

    Chen Fan saw a divine nascent emerging from that head, but nine chains of divine light restrained it. The divine nascent burst out with terrifying power, resisting the impact of the golden words.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A destructive aura instantly filled the otherworldly space, as if the doomsday had arrived. The earth split open, and the once calmndscape transformed into a scene of devastation.

    As the small golden person unleashed their might, the power restraining Chen Fan broke. He could now move.

    The small golden person was pretty much invincible, destroying everything with overwhelming might.

    The eyes of that massive head¡¯s divine nascent were about the size of a water jar. As they looked at the small golden person, their vicious gaze was filled with horror and shock. ¡°This is thenguage of the gods. What cultivation technique are you practicing? A god-tier cultivation technique! How is that possible!¡±

    <i>Roar! </i>The head let out a furious roar. The divine might of the small golden person repeatedly pushed back his powers. The roar mobilized almost all of the head¡¯s power. An aura that covered heaven and earth erupted from his divine nascent.

    ¡°Life Reversal, depleting the origin, break for me! Even a god can forget about killing me!¡± roared the head. The entire space quivered as a terrifying force surged forth, twisting heaven and earth upside down.

    Chen Fan was powerless to resist this shockwave. He coughed up blood violently, thrown back by the sheer force of the impact.

    Meanwhile, the small golden figure continued to speak in the divine tongue, its words elerating. Suddenly, all the golden radiance converged into a single point, piercing through countless barriers and piercing the head''s be.

    <i>Ah! </i>Arge hole appeared in the head, his divine nascent gravely damaged.

    As the small golden figure''s power waned, it swiftly withdrew the golden light and returned to Chen Fan''s forehead.

    Chen Fan endured his injuries and darted into the space tunnel, rolling and crawling before disappearing from sight.

 Chapter 456 - Seventh-Level Core Formation Realm

    <h4>Chapter 456 - Seventh-Level Core Formation Realm</h4>

    Chen Fan burst out of the space tunnel, blood pouring from his wounds, his aura faint and weak.

    He didn¡¯t dare to rest here. Using the Wings of Rain Dragon, he swiftly escaped from the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range.

    Chen Fan hade unnervingly close to death this time. Luckily, the small golden person saved him again, disying immense strength.

    He had been in danger numerous times, but the small golden figure hadn¡¯t intervened as many times, much less used the divine tongue. But this time, facing an attack from the massive head, they had emerged and unleashed unmatched divine power.

    ¡°Senior? Senior...¡± Chen Fan tried tomunicate with the small golden person, but as usual, there was no response.

    After several attempts with no sess, Chen Fan gave up. ¡°Maybe my cultivation level is too low. Forget it. But, damn... I really survived the most dangerous moment of my life. I better not jump into dangerousnds so easily in the future. What would Father and Mother do if something happened to me?"

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid of danger, but he worried about the people he needed to protect.

    He flew across thends, exiting the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range and reentering the outside world.

    ......

    In the depths of the otherworldly space, the head, restrained by chains of divine light, finally managed to suppress its injuries.

    ¡°Damn it! Why did I meet someone with a god¡¯s seal and blessing here? That''s a god, a legend of the thirty-three heavens, for goodness¡¯ sake! Why is such a being doing with an ordinary person from a tiny world?

    ¡°I, Yama Devil Emperor, swept across the thirty-three heavenly domains ten thousand years ago. Ah, if only I hadn¡¯t fallen into that trap... Those bastards ripped me limb from limb and chained me up with Zhendan Divine Iron. Ten thousand years! This n was centuries in the making! I was just about to break free and return to the heavenly domain to exact revenge, but now... My ten-thousand-year n was almost ruined!¡±

    Yama Devil Emperor seethed with hatred for Chen Fan.

    After getting shackled here more than ten thousand years ago, he created the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. He was responsible for its unique environment and for the jiangshi, skeletons, and blood corpses asionally charging out to terrorize innocent people. They would absorb sufficient qi and blood to corrode away the Zhendan Divine Iron.

    In another century or so, he could have dissolved the chainspletely. After reuniting with his corpse, he would have regained his original powers. Unfortunately, the small golden person had injured his divine nascent greatly, pushing the day of his freedom into a distant, unreachable future.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Damn it! When I break out of here, I¡¯ll definitely rip this damned ant apart!¡± Yama Devil Emperor roared in agony, his furious roar shaking the otherworldly space.

    ......

    Enduring his injuries, Chen Fan rushed to the Watermoon City¡¯s Chen n.

    Chen Zhengqing sensed him returning and went out. However, Chen Fan seemed on the verge of death, so his expression changed drastically.

    ¡°Xiaofan, what happened to you...¡±

    He knew that the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range was full of dangers, but Chen Fan was iparably powerful. So, he couldn''t be in danger unless he jumped into a trap. Why could injure him so gravely?

    Chen Fan said, ¡°No need to worry, Father. I just had a few... encounters. I won¡¯t talk about it for now. I need to heal my wounds first.¡±

    ¡°Alright," Chen Zhengqing replied, understanding that tending to Chen Fan''s injuries was the priority.

    Sitting cross-legged in a secret room, Chen Fan took out many precious Recovery Elixirs and swallowed them.

    His injuries were from the shockwaves of the sh between the small golden person and the Yama Devil Emperor. If not for his tough physique, the shockwaves would have reduced him to minced meat.

    Time flew by, and half a month passed in a sh.

    ¡°Xiaofan still hasn¡¯te out. Are his injuries very severe?¡± Chen Zhengqing paced back and forth in his study, and his face was full of worry.

    ¡°Rx a little, Zhengqing. Xiaofan will be fine,¡± Chen Tianxiong said,forting him.

    Chen Fan had long since recovered from his injuries using the Divine Stone of Life. He hadn¡¯t left the room because he was trying to advance to the seventh level using the Blood Corpse Demon King suppressed in the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace revolved, refining the Blood Corpse Demon King into vast amounts of life essence. Thispletely healed Chen Fan¡¯s injuries and increased his cultivation aura.

    Next, he took out the purple-gold jiangshi king¡¯s corpse core and tossed it into the Heaven Seizing Furnace. That produced even more life essence, which flowed through Chen Fan¡¯s limbs and bones.

    The Blood Corpse Demon King and the purple-gold jiangshi king were in the high-level Core Formation realm. So, their life essence was abundant, pushing Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation aura continuously.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz!</i>

    Wisps of invisible qi waves spread out from Chen Fan, leading to cracks appearing on the walls of the secret room.

    Time flew by once again, and in the blink of an eye, a month had passed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud boom rang out from inside Chen Fan. A terrifying aura erupted from him, transforming into a terrifying vortex above his head.

    He waved his palm without a second thought. A hill¡¯s worth of primeval stone burst open one after another, and a mass of pure primeval qi rushed into him.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The terrifying phenomenon finally came to a stop an hourter, and everything returned to calm.

    Chen Fan had advanced to the seventh level of the Core Formation realm.

    ......

    Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong were relieved to see Chen Fan leaving the room in high spirits.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    ¡°Father, Grandfather.¡± Chen Fan greeted them.

    Chen Zhengqing asked, ¡°Xiaofan, how are your injuries?¡±

    Chen Fan answered, ¡°No need to worry, Father. They are fully healed. And... I have also reached the seventh level! With mybat strength, I can even defeat those at the eighth level easily¡±

    <i>Hiss</i>! Chen Zhengqing and Chen Tianxiong gasped in shock. They had known that Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation had reached a shocking level. However, hearing it from him still deeply shocked them.

    <i>Seventh level of the Core Formation realm...</i>

    They didn¡¯t even dare to dream of that level.

    Chen Fan took out the Divine Stone of Life and handed it to Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Father, I see you are at the eighth level of the Yuanfu realm. Very good. Now, I have enough strength to bring Mother back. This is a Divine Stone of Life. It still has some life origin essence inside. Absorb it and advance to the Core Formation realm, Father. Once you do, we''ll head to the imperial city together, bring Mother back, and reunite as a family!"

    Given his current cultivation level and strength, Chen Fan would be a formidable figure even in the imperial city. He no longer needed to fear the Qin n in the slightest.

    Chen Zhengqing trembled from head to toe. His eyes reddened, unable to contain his emotions.

    Taking a deep breath, Chen Zhengqing suppressed the excitement in his heart and nodded heavily. He received the Divine Stone of Life and said, ¡°Alright, when I advance into the Core Formation realm, we¡¯ll go to the imperial city together and bring your mother home!¡±

 Chapter 457 - Chen Zhengqing Faces Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 457 - Chen Zhengqing Faces Tribtion</h4>

    A monthter, a terrifying golden core tribtion shrouded the Chen n mansion.

    Chen Zhengqing, disying remarkable talent, had used the Divine Stone of Life and a wealth of cultivation resources to advance to the eighth and then the ninth levels in quick session before finally condensing a golden core.

    The sky in the surrounding thousand-meter radius was covered with dark, ink-ck tribtion clouds. This was Chen Zhengqing¡¯s golden core tribtion. The oppressive tribtion aura enveloped Watermoon City, startling everyone.

    ¡°Heavens, what is going on?¡±

    ¡°What is happening in the Chen n? Have they done something so terrible that the heavens had to mete out their divine punishment?!¡±

    ¡°Punishment from the heavens? My god, I feel like I¡¯m about to suffocate under this aura.¡±

    ¡°This is why people call us country bumpkins! You ignorant fools, that¡¯s a golden core tribtion. When a martial artist breaks through to the Core Formation realm and condenses a golden core, it triggers the power of the heavenly Dao, and a tribtion descends upon them. Every Core Formation realm expert has to face this life-and-death ordeal. Seeding means wrenching your fate away from the heavens! But if they fail, they¡¯ll be reduced to a handful of tribtion ash.¡±

    ¡°What? So, it¡¯s a golden core tribtion. Doesn¡¯t that mean someone from the Chen n is about to be a Core Formation realm expert?¡±

    ¡°Could it be the Chen n¡¯s young patriarch, Chen Fan? That¡¯s too terrifying. He¡¯s so young and already advancing into the Core Formation realm!"

    ¡°......¡±

    Watermoon City was in an uproar.

    Everyone looked at those terrifying tribtion clouds. Their eyes were now filled with envy instead of fear. Those ominous clouds signified that someone was about to be a Core Formation realm expert. How could they not be envious when they knew that they would never even get the opportunity to experience the test?

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Several figures with powerful auras flew up into the sky, looking in the direction of the Chen n from afar. They wanted to confirm if it was Chen Fan undergoing the tribtion.

    The Chen n members were also panicking.

    Chen Fan flew up into the air. His voice resounded like thunder, falling into the Chen n members¡¯ ears, as he said, ¡°Everyone, no need to be afraid. This is a golden core tribtion. It won¡¯t cause you any harm. Don¡¯t act recklessly, all of you. Return to your positions and just watch quietly.¡±

    Immediately, many of the panicking Chen n members settled down. They looked up at those terrifying tribtion clouds one after another, excited.

    The golden core tribtion very likely meant that their patriarch, Chen Zhengqing, was about to advance to the next realm.

    <i>Boom, crackle, crackle!</i>

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s tribtion clouds stopped expanding at a thousand meters wide.

    This was already an impressive feat. Ordinary people''s golden core tribtions usually reached a width of around five hundred meters, so Chen Zhengqing¡¯s achievement was exceptional. Although it paled inparison to Chen Fan''s, it still marked him as a genius.

    Once he had passed through the tribtion and his golden core received a baptism, his strength would rank among the best of the first-level Core Formation realm experts.

    A terrifying lightning dragon descended, wanting to devour Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Zhengqing let out a thunderous roar and met it head-on. His golden core was above his head, receiving the baptism of the tribtion.

    ¡°What? It¡¯s not Chen Fan, but Chen Zhengqing! Heavens, I¡¯m not seeing things, am I? Chen Zhengqing has broken through to the Core Formation realm!¡±

    ¡°Wait... does that mean Chen Fan advanced to the Core Formation realm long ago?¡±

    ¡°And now Chen Zhengqing¡¯s breaking through? This father and son pair are terrifying!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The experts in Watermoon City were nonplussed when they realized it was Chen Zhengqing undergoing the tribtion, not Chen Fan as they had initially thought.

    The terrifying tribtion descended, and a total of nine lightning dragons bombarded Chen Zhengqing¡¯s golden core.

    Chen Zhengqing endured the tribtion¡¯s might for an hour before oveing it. His golden core was round and wless, emitting waves of resplendent golden light that overwhelmed the area.

    Oveing the tribtion put him in a good mood, and his bright voice resounded in the city as he said, ¡°Hahahaha, good, good, good. I never expected I would also have a golden core within me one day!"

    Everyone realized that Chen Zhengqing had seeded in his tribtion and had be a Core Formation realm cultivator, ascending into the heavens with a single step.

    ¡°He¡¯s seeded, the Patriarch has be a Core Formation realm cultivator!¡±

    ¡°That golden core tribtion earlier was so terrifying. It felt like any one of those lightning dragons could have devastated Watermoon City."

    ¡°Luckily, the patriarch overcame his tribtion. Our Chen n now has a Core Formation realm expert overseeing us. Even in the imperial city, we¡¯ll be considered a top n now!¡±

    ¡°We have to work harder now. Like the patriarch, we will also undergo our golden core tribtion one day and be Core Formation realm experts!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The m members, especially the geniuses of the younger generation like Chen Qingqing, Chen Hualong, and Chen Yunchong, felt inspired and their hot blood surged. They clenched their fists tightly, resolving to work even harder to reach the Core Formation realm and even higher.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    The sound of wind filled the air as the Yuanfu realm experts of Watermoon City flew over and cupped their fists at Chen Zhengqing, congratting him.

    ¡°Haha, congrattions to Brother Chen for sessfully passing your tribtion and bing a Core Formation realm expert. It¡¯s truly an asion worth celebrating!¡± said Qian Tongtian, the patriarch of the Qian n. He was a fifth-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    ¡°Congrattions, Brother Chen, on your advancement,¡± said Zhang Huaiyuan from the Zhang n.

    ¡°Congrattions to Patriarch Chen on your sessful breakthrough...¡±

    Numerous voices of congrattions resounded from the great figures of Watermoon City, all Yuanfu realm experts. They congratted Chen Zhengqing one after another, their faces thick with envy.

    When the Chen n had settled in Watermoon City, Chen Zhengqing was only a fourth-level Yuanfu realm expert.

    However, in what seemed like the blink of an eye, Chen Zhengqing had be a Core Formation realm expert. Although everyone¡¯s cultivation had improved, the gap between them and Chen Zhengqing was vast, like heaven and earth.

    ¡°Haha, I am truly fortunate to have seeded in my tribtion. Since everyone is here,e on in and have a seat,¡± Chen Zhengqing said with a clear and bright voice. He returned greetings to those who congratted him, showing neither arrogance nor pride.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s advancement was a joyous asion for the entire Chen n. The n¡¯s strength had risen to another level.

    That night, Watermoon City was brightly lit, especially the Chen n mansion.

    Apart from the locals of Watermoon City, even ns from nearby cities sent representatives in a hurry to honor his advancement.

    The celebrationssted three days and three nights. The entire Chen n felt invigorated by the festivities.

    With ample resources and martial arts, the Chen n was in a strong position. As long as one worked hard, raising their cultivation wouldn¡¯t be difficult.

    After the banquet ended, Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing set out for the imperial city. The father and son pair would enter the city openly and confidently, no longer needing to hide.

    Their mission: to bring Nangong Yue home!

 Chapter 458 - Revisiting the Imperial City

    <h4>Chapter 458 - Revisiting the Imperial City</h4>

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqingnded outside the imperial city.

    "I never thought I''d return to the imperial city in my lifetime," Chen Zhengqing said, gazing at the towering walls with a look of regret.

    Twenty years ago, he had ventured into the imperial city with great ambition and made quite a name for himself. He befriended the city''s young nobles and fell in love with Nangong Yue. However, this also brought the wrath of the Qin n upon him.

    His so-called "good brothers" turned on him overnight and tried to kill him. Ultimately, he had to flee the imperial city with the newborn Chen Fan user Nangong Yue¡¯s cover. His primeval vessel was shattered, and his cultivation regressed to the Qi Grandmaster realm.

    Twenty years passed in the blink of an eye. He constantly missed Nangong Yue and dreamed of returning to the city to bring her back. Yet, those dreams used to seem oundish.

    That was, until Chen Fan¡¯s heaven-defying rise to prominence. Not only did Chen Fan soar to power like aet, but he also led their n toward prosperity.

    In the meantime, Chen Zhengqing rebuilt his primeval vessel and made remarkable progress, reaching his current level in just two years. He felt excited to be standing in front of the imperial city once more.

    Everything felt like a dream, still somewhat unreal to him.

    Crowds bustled at the city entrance, and some people noticed Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing gazing at the towering walls in a daze. Mocking expressions appeared on their faces. Children tugged at their mothers and asked, ¡°Look, Mother, what are they looking at?¡±

    They had taken Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing for country bumpkins awed by the city''s grandeur.

    ¡°They must be from the countryside, admiring the majesty of the imperial city.¡±

    The strange looks and the mockery didn¡¯t affect them, as they simply ignored the passersby¡¯s chatter.

    ¡°Hoho, Father, since we are here, let¡¯s cause a huge scene. We''ll bring Mother home and make those who wronged us pay!" Chen Fan said, his smile cold and his tone even colder.

    Chen Zhengqing turned to Chen Fan and said, ¡°Don¡¯t be reckless, Xiaofan. The Qin n is the top n in the imperial city. Their foundations and strength run deep, so they are bound to have many Core Formation realm experts.¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Father. Given my current strength, they would be just numbers. This time, I will make the Qin n pay!¡±

    As the foremost n, the Qin n was no easy foe. A year ago, Chen Fan had to use the alias Wang Dongfan to move around the city undercover.

    However, the Qin n was no longer a significant threat in his eyes. Absolute strength rendered numbers meaningless¡ªjust a few more wronged souls.

    ¡°Xiaofan, caution is the key to a long voyage," Chen Zhengqing advised again.

    ¡°I know.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    A constant stream of people weaved back and forth at the entrance to the imperial city. It was extremely lively.

    ¡°As expected of the top ns of the imperial city. The Qin n and the Nangong n joining by marriage will be a union of strength. Believe me when I say that this will decide the city¡¯s power structure for the next century.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Qin Jian is exceptionally talented. I mean, have you heard of anyone that young entering the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm? He has also inherited the ancient sword god¡¯s techniques, which helped him gain his current nickname: Little Sword God. He is the leader of the imperial city¡¯s younger generation for a reason.¡±

    ¡°But that Nangong Qingshuang sure is an outstanding beauty. As if being the number one beauty of the imperial city wasn¡¯t enough, she is also talented. I heard she is a sixth-level Yuanfu realm expert. The golden boy and the jade maiden... What an enviousbo.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, with Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s big wedding, the Sun Bloodline could borrow the Qin n¡¯s strength to take full control of the Nangong n. How long has that patriarch position of the Nangong n been vacant? Was it twenty years? Anyway, someone just might fill it soon.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing approached the gates of the imperial city, they overheard this conversation and raised their eyebrows.

    ¡°Qin Jian is getting married!¡± A sharp light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    When he had attended the Bloodlines Martial Meet as the Moon Bloodline¡¯s representative, he learned that the rtionship between Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang was special. He didn''t expect the two to marry within a year.

    ¡°Looks like we made it in time, Father. Qin Jian is Qin Wudi¡¯s son, and Nangong Qingshuang is Nangong Ling¡¯s daughter. It¡¯s their wedding today. We should definitely ''congratte'' them," Chen Fan said, cold light shing in his eyes.

    Chen Zhengqing was still feeling apprehensive about the Qin n¡¯s strength, worried they might be overwhelmed if they went in unprepared. ¡°Xiaofan, wouldn¡¯t this be...¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Father. The Qin n really poses no threat to me. If we¡¯re going to exact revenge, we might as well do it today. It¡¯s a perfect day to ask for a toast and see if the Qin n obliges.¡±

    Seeing the determination on Chen Fan¡¯s face, Chen Zhengqing shook his head with a bitter smile. He knew Chen Fan had already decided, and nothing he said would change it. So, he stopped trying to dissuade him.

    If Chen Fan was set on causing a ruckus, then as his father, he would support him. Chen Zhengqing¡¯s blood started heating up.

    ¡°Alright, then let us go ask for a toast!¡± Chen Zhengqingughed out loud, feeling a sense of freedom like he was young once again, full of vigor and quick to repay favors and enmity.

    The two set off into the imperial city. Their view immediately opened up, and a mor of noise filled their ears. Most people were discussing Qin Jian''s wedding.

    After all, the Qin n was the number one n of the imperial city, while the Nangong n was also one of the four great ns. Although they were weaker than the Qin n, they were still very terrifying.

    The marriage of the younger generation from these powerful families was a major event, capable of reshaping the city''s power structure. Naturally, it was the talk of the town.

    They heard the news of Qin Jian''s wedding everywhere. The event was sensational and grand

    The bridal escort party had already paraded through the entire city, making sure everyone was aware of the momentous asion.

    The bride and the groom both had extraordinary statuses. Such a grand event was necessary to showcase the foundation and strength of these two powerful ns.

 Chapter 459 - Qin Jianâ€™s Wedding

    <h4>Chapter 459 - Qin Jian¡¯s Wedding</h4>

    In the central area of the imperial city stood a huge and majestic pce, upying an extensive area and radiating prosperity and grandeur. Some people even referred to it as the "little royal pce."

    This towering pce was the residence of the Qin n, the imperial city''s foremost n.

    The Qin n mansion sprawled in a cone shape around an enormous martial arts arena, which served as the entrance to the estate. Setting foot on the arena was akin to entering the Qin n¡¯s domain.

    Currently, the Qin n was in a festive mood.

    Doors and windows were adorned withrge red double-happiness characters, and even the imposing stone lions at the mansion gates were draped in bright red silk, symbolizing the celebration.

    The Qin n mansion seemed like a market, filled with peopleing and going.

    These attendees were either high-ranking officials, distinguished people, representatives of martial ns, or wealthy merchant families.

    The Qin n was the number one n of the imperial city, with deep foundations and strength. Even the royal family had to show them some respect.

    Qin Jian, the young patriarch of the Qin n, was hosting his wedding. Every respectable figure in the imperial city hade to celebrate and offer generous gifts. Those without any status, they weren''t even allowed within three streets of the Qin n.

    Today, the Qin n¡¯s gates were wide open to wee members from great ns and dignitaries.

    A steward stood at the entrance, announcing each new arrival and their congrattory gift in a loud, resonant voice that spread over a kilometer away. This ensured that even those not qualified to attend Qin Jian¡¯s wedding could hear the proceedings.

    Inside the Qin n mansion, the atmosphere was a sea of celebration. All the people here contributed to a lively and vibrant scene.

    Numerous high tforms had been erected around the martial arts arena, and crowds of people were seated on them.

    Among those seated were the seniors of the Qin n, as well as members of prestigious ns and nobles of high status. They were all great figures who could exercise great powers in the imperial city.

    Additionally, many young men and women were present on the high tforms, all spirited and talented individuals who were friends of Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang.

    As the festivities continued, a group approached from afar, causing a stir among the crowd.

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s the Calm Sun Marquis Chu Feng and the Princess Consort Ming Ruyue. [1] I heard that the Calm Sun Marquis advanced to the second level of the Core Formation realm three months ago.¡±

    The Calm Sun Marquis was a noble, a true member of the royal family. With his esteemed status, he represented the royal family,manding respect from even the four great ns.

    The crowd suddenly burst into amotion again as another group walked over in a powerful and imposing manner.

    ¡°Oh crud, look over there, quick! The Yang n¡¯s patriarch, Yang Rong, and the Su n¡¯s patriarch, Su Yihai, are also here. Moreover, the Yang n and the Su n are walking together.¡±

    The Yang n and Su n were two of the four great ns of the imperial city, alongside the Qin n and the Nangong n. They were the symbols of strength and status.

    While them attending the wedding wasn¡¯t anything significant, the fact that they hade together was. The crowd was intrigued by how close they looked to each other.

    Although Qin Jian was the young patriarch of the Qin n, he was only a junior. Yang Rong and Su Yihai controlled the Yang n and the Su n and were figures on the level of Qin Wudi and Nangong Xuan.

    They could have just sent a Core Formation realm elder to pass on the congrattory gift for a junior¡¯s wedding, but those patriarch-level figures actually came together. They had given the Qin n and the Nangong n ample face by personally attending.

    Observant individuals also recognized that Yang Rong and Su Yihai appearing together signaled an alliance between the Yang n and the Su n.

    Given the marriage between Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang united the powerful Qin and Nangong ns, other ns needed to form alliances to avoid being jointly suppressed by this new powerhouse. Thus, the Yang and Su ns'' alliance was a strategic move to counterbnce this union.

    A tall figure went up to them. It was none other than the Qin n¡¯s patriarch, Qin Wudi.

    ¡°Haha, Brother Yang and Brother Su have personallye to our Qin n. Your presence truly brings light to my humble dwelling.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re too polite, Brother Qin.¡± Yang Rong and Su Yihai smiled faintly and said, ¡°Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s wedding has attracted the world¡¯s attention. They are a perfect match, a golden boy and jade maiden, truly enviable.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, Brother Yang, Brother Su, please take a seat.¡± Qin Wudi led Yang Rong and Su Yihai to the main seats.

    The crowd gossiped among themselves, their eyes flickering with curiosity and spection. Although they couldn''t get close to the inner circle of those great ns, they had a clear understanding of the imperial city''s power dynamics.

    ¡°The marriage between the Qin n and the Nangong n has put a lot of pressure on the Yang n and Su n. Otherwise, the two patriarchs wouldn¡¯t havee personally, not to mention together. They are sending a signal to the Qin n and the Nangong n.¡±

    ¡°As if that wasn¡¯t as obvious as the nose on your face. As the strongest n of the imperial city, the Qin n¡¯s overall strength is already a head above the other three great ns. And we all know that the Qin n¡¯s matriarch has ties to the royal family. This marriage will only make them stronger. So, why wouldn¡¯t the other ns feel a sense of crisis?¡±

    ¡°The Nangong n¡¯s Sun Bloodline will likely also borrow the Qin n¡¯s strength to increase their authority. Perhaps Nangong Ling will be the patriarch of the Nangong n and take control of it.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Nangong n members were also present on the high tforms. While the Sun Bloodline members were excited, those from the Moon and Star Bloodlines appeared somewhat downcast. They also knew that Nangong Ling would leverage the Qin n''s power to be the patriarch of the Nangong n. This would significantly reduce their influence within the n.

    The Moon Bloodline, in particr, wore gloomy expressions. After many difficulties, they had finally been on the way up, but Qin Jian''s wedding threatened to snuff out their progress.

    Time passed, and people streamed in and out of the Qin n''s gates.

    Whenever people cried out in harmony, the crowd knew that some great figure from some prestigious n of the imperial city had arrived.

    As noon approached, the Qin n''s martial arts arena was packed with a sea of people. Thevish banquet tables were already fully seated. Everyone was waiting for the bride and groom.

    A Qin n elder on the high tform suddenly stood up and raised his hands, signaling the crowd to be quiet. Gradually, the chatter subsided until the arena was silent.

    The Qin n elder cleared his throat lightly and announced, ¡°Our Qin n is deeply honored to have every one of youe today. I¡¯m sure the wait has already made us all impatient. Now, let¡¯s invite the bride and groom to the stage.¡±

    Suddenly, a faint, indifferent voice shook the skies.

    ¡°Hoho, it¡¯s Qin Jian¡¯s big wedding day today, so how could you leave us out? We¡¯re here to ask for a cup of toast from the Qin n. Surely, you won¡¯t reject us, will you?¡±

    1. Calm Sun Marquis is also the emperor¡¯s younger brother, and a first-rank prince. That¡¯s why his wife, Ming Ruyue is a princess consort. ?

 Chapter 460 - Asking for a Toast

    <h4>Chapter 460 - Asking for a Toast</h4>

    ¡°Alright, I shan¡¯t say much. Let¡¯s all direct our attention to the newlyweds,¡± announced the Qin n elder presiding over the wedding, smiling as he slowly took his seat.

    Colorful threads suddenly floated above the Qin n mansion, creating a stunning spectacle. After a brief moment, these colorful threads filled the sky. Some threads gathered to form a ball.

    The crowd looked up into the sky. Colorful silk ribbons fluttered in front of their eyes, covering the skies.

    A pair of legs appeared under those endless colorful silk ribbons and someone slowly descended.

    <i>Hmm?</i>

    The crowd¡¯s eyes widened in anticipation as the figures became clear.

    A tall and handsome youth held a breathtakingly beautiful woman in his embrace.

    The pair descended gracefully, eventuallynding in the center of the stage, dazzling the onlookers. The colorful ribbons fell gently around them, framing the scene perfectly.

    The couple was none other than the newlyweds¡ªQin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang.

    <i>Handsome and beautiful. They¡¯re indeed the golden boy and the jade maiden.</i> Many youths praised in their hearts, revealing looks of envy.

    Qin Jian stood full of vigor, handsome and dashing,plementing the dazzling beauty of Nangong Qingshuang. Together, they captivated everyone present, like a pair of immortals.

    Some young girls in the crowd saw stars looking at Qin Jian, wishing they could take Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s ce.

    ¡°Qin Jian is so dashing. He¡¯s so handsome and suave. Ahh... I want someone like Qin Jian to give me my perfect wedding. With someone like him beside me, I will always wake up with a smile.¡±

    ¡°If you want a perfect lover like Qin Jian, you need a beautiful face like Nangong Qingshuang first.¡±

    The young men, equally captivated, couldn¡¯t take their eyes off Nangong Qingshuang, their faces showing infatuation. She was so stunning that others felt humbled inparison.

    ¡°She truly deserves her title as the number one beauty of the imperial city. She is just too damn pretty. How can one not yearn for her? She is unforgettable.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? I¡¯m afraid only Qin Jian is worthy of being with Nangong Qingshuang.¡±

    Qin Jian¡¯s gaze swept across the crowd before he took a deep breath and said, ¡°Thank you all foring to the Qin n to take part in our wedding. Here, I promise Qingshuang that I, Qin Jian, will continue to walk on the path of martial arts. I am incredibly fortunate to have Qingshuang as my wife. It feels like a blessing umted over three lifetimes, and I want to spend my life with her, never leaving her side.

    ¡°Today, I ask everyone here to bear witness that I, Qin Jian, shall never fail my wife, Nangong Qingshuang.¡±

    Qin Jian''s heartfelt words echoed through the space, touching the crowd deeply. Many nodded in agreement, and numerous young women¡¯s eyes turned red with emotion.

    ¡°Wonderful!¡± Nangong Ling shouted, feeling very happy.

    ¡°Brother Qin¡¯s talent and character need no introduction. I trust you two will be a perfect couple.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Brother Qin has always been the most outstanding among us. His future is incredibly bright.¡±

    ¡°Congrattions, Brother Qin, on bringing home such beauty today. I wish you both a long and happy life together, and may you soon bear a child,¡± many of Qin Jian¡¯s friends from the younger generation chimed in, one after another.

    Qin Wudi stood up, and his voice resounded as he said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s begin the banquet!¡±

    Suddenly, an indifferent voice echoed, shaking the heavens.

    ¡°Hoho, it¡¯s Qin Jian¡¯s big wedding day today, so how could you leave us out? We¡¯re here to ask for a cup of toast from the Qin n. Surely, you won¡¯t reject us, will you?¡±

    The voice pierced through the bustling atmosphere of the Qin n mansion, causing Qin Wudi, Nangong Ling, and others to narrow their gazes, their eyes emitting an icy light.

    Today was not just any day; it marked an alliance between the Qin n and the Nangong n. For someone to stir up trouble now showed immense nerve. They must not know what death was!

    The crowd put down their wine cups and looked up to the sky, toward the source of the voice.

    They saw two figures quickly speeding over, the roaring wind was like a cascade of firecrackers, ringing non-stop.

    <i>Interesting!</i>

    The crowd narrowed their gazes when they saw them ¡°barge in.¡± Even top-ss figures like Yang Rong and Su Yihai had shown proper decorum by entering through the gates on Qin Jian¡¯s wedding day.

    Unexpectedly, the intruders had flown over, directly crossing the skies and setting off deafening booming noises.

    They weren¡¯t here to ask for a toast¡ªthey were here to cause trouble.

    Immediately, many people in the crowd smiled coldly, their eyes fixed on the two intruders as if they were looking at dead men.

    A reputable rogue cultivator from the imperial city stood up and said to Qin Wudi, ¡°What guts they have, to dare barge into the Qin n. Patriarch Qin, today is your son¡¯s wedding day. It wouldn¡¯t be appropriate for you to take action on such a joyous asion. Allow me to handle this. I¡¯ll capture these two fools for you!¡±

    Seeing an opportunity to forge a rtionship with the Qin n, he seized the moment. Naturally, he wouldn''t miss such a chance.

    Qin Wudi nodded slightly. The first-level Core Formation realm rogue cultivator immediately rose into the sky. His voice shook thends as he said, ¡°You sinful beasts, how dare you cause trouble at Young Patriarch Qin¡¯s wedding. You deserve to die for your sins. Quickly stop at once!¡±

    This rogue cultivator grabbed at the empty air, channeling his true primeval, condensing arge hand that covered the skies. It emitted an overwhelming ck qi and wed through the air, arriving in front of Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing in a sh. The hand wed down viciously, causing the air to explode repeatedly.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    A stern, chilling light burst out of Chen Zhengqing¡¯s eyes. He flipped his palm, and a blood-colored de immediately appeared in his hand. He shed at the air, and a bloody light shone in the sky, dominating everything.

    Chen Zhengqing was using Bloody Sky, which Chen Fan had given to him because he was proficient with des.

    Bloody Sky made his strength skyrocket, so he could even fight experts at the second level now.

    Chen Zhengqing¡¯s attack sliced the space like it was silk. The massive hand, rolling with ck qi, had been cleaved effortlessly.

    The de light broke through that rogue cultivator¡¯s palm seal without losing any momentum and was before the rogue cultivator in the blink of an eye.

    With a poof, the rogue cultivator¡¯s protective true primeval was sliced apart like butter or tofu under his horrified gaze. The sh left a deep wound on his torso, and fresh blood gushed out like a spring.

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing flew to the skies above the Qin n mansion. An indifferent voice resounded, shaking thends.

    ¡°What, all we asked the Qin n for was a cup of toast. Is the Qin n so stingy?¡±

 Chapter 461 - The Crowd Shaken

    <h4>Chapter 461 - The Crowd Shaken</h4>

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The rogue cultivator, now in two pieces, crashed down like a meteor and smashed onto the Qin n mansion with a rumble. The impact caused chaos among the crowd.

    <i>tter!</i>

    The Qin n experts quickly stood up, emitting icy auras. Mournful noises immediately resounded in the sky above the Qin n mansion. Their gazes were as cold as des and swords, staring daggers at Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing, filled with killing intent.

    The wedding was a grand asion celebrated by the entire imperial city. To have troublemakers at such an event was not only an insult to the Qin n and the Nangong n but also a challenge to their authority.

    Even someone at the fifth level would have been scared out of their wits under the stern, icy res of the Qin n and the Nangong n¡¯s experts

    However, Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing ignored them entirely, showing not the slightest hint of fear.

    ¡°What? We came all this way here to congratte the new couple, and this is how the Qin n treats their guests? Not even a cup of toast!¡± Chen Zhengqing said coldly, holding Bloody Sky.

    ¡°How mighty, Qin n!¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, standing proudly in the air with both hands behind his back.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Countless gazes fell on Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing.

    On the high tform, the expressions of Nangong Wan¡¯er and the Moon Bloodline members changed drastically when they got a good look at Chen Fan¡¯s face. ¡°Wang Dongfan!¡±

    A light shed in Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Xiaofan! Zhengqing!¡±

    Chu Xuan¡¯er also noticed Chen Fan, her eyes shimmering.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan!¡±

    Chen Fan had silently left the Nangong n after asking Nangong Baxiong to inform Chu Xuan¡¯er that he had something to attend to. She had felt a bit resentful, as he didn¡¯t say goodbye to her.

    Some of the youths recognized Chen Fan from the Martial Market Arena.

    ¡°That¡¯s... Wang Dongfan!¡±

    ¡°Right, that¡¯s Wang Dongfan! I remember him. Over a year ago, he won ten rounds in a row at the Martial Market Arena; he is a genius listed on the Martial Market Earth Leaderboard! I heard he attended the Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet afterward and helped the Moon Bloodline defeat the Sun Bloodline and the Star Bloodline, seizing two seats in the council of elders. This gave the Moon Bloodline a chance to revive.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, he disappeared over a year ago and has now shown up to disrupt Qin Jian¡¯s wedding. Is he tired of living or something?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Unlike those from the younger generation, Qin Wudi and the others¡¯ gazes fell on Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing!¡±

    Especially those who had participated in the hunt for Chen Zhengqing twenty years ago were shocked, their eyes nearly popping out.

    ¡°Chen Zhengqing, you¡¯re still alive!¡±

    Zhu Han, a middle-aged higher-up of the Zhu n, shot up to his feet.

    Twenty years ago, he and Chen Zhengqing had called each other brothers; ultimately, he betrayed Chen Zhengqing and became one of the main forces hunting him. He was a third-level Yuanfu realm expert then, but he was now in the Core Formation realm, one of the few in the Zhu n.

    Chen Zhengqing looked at Zhu Han, a faint, icy smile on his face.

    ¡°Long time no see, Zhu Han. I didn¡¯t expect you to still remember me!¡±

    Zhu Han said coldly, ¡°After you ran away twenty years ago, I thought you died in a ditch somewhere. But look at you... First level of the Core Formation realm. It truly is a miracle!¡±

    ¡°It is indeed a miracle. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here today to settle the score!¡± Chen Zhengqing said evenly.

    ¡°With just you?¡± Lu Yang, an expert at the third level, stood up, his tone cold and his gaze sharp as a de. He was the patriarch of the imperial city¡¯s Lu n.

    Although Chen Zhengqing had just cut down a rogue cultivator, rendering him half-dead, Lu Yang showed no fear at all. Being at the third level, he believed he could easily crush Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°Whatever. You only managed to escape by a stroke of luck with that sinful bastard at your side under Nangong Yue¡¯s cover back then. So be it if you got lucky and survived. You should have hidden like rats and lived out your days in silence, but now you dare to reveal yourselves today. Fine, I¡¯ll personally capture you and hand you over to Brother Qin for punishment!"

    Lu Yang leaped from the ground like a soaring roc with great momentum. A terrifying pressure erupted from him, shaking heaven and earth.

    On the high tform, Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes trembled when he saw Lu Yang making a move, wanting to stop him. However, a voice whispered in his ear, making him stop and look at Chen Fan.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I let you slip away before, but since you''vee to us willingly now, don''t expect to leave. Prepare to meet your end!"

    Lu Yang¡¯s cultivation erupted. A vast mass of true primeval rushed out from his skull and wrapped around his arms. With a violent thrust of his right arm, he unleashed his attack, resembling a dragon''s w.

    ¡°Coiling Dragon Hand!¡±

    A savage golden coiling dragon rushed out from Lu Yang¡¯s arm. It pounced over, carrying an intense outpour of qi as it wed down violently.

    Lu Yang showed not even the slightest hint of mercy, unleashing his strongest martial art.

    The crowd waited to see how Lu Yang would catch Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing together; suddenly, Chen Fan made a move.

    He stepped forward and grabbed at the empty air. A light shed, and a dark, ancient, in-looking iron spear appeared in his hand.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡± Chen Fan spat out icily. With minimal movement, he thrust the spear toward Lu Yang.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    The attack instantly destroyed the majestic coiling dragon.

    ¡°What?¡± Lu Yang was astonished, as he hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan¡¯s casual stab to make quick work of his Coiling Dragon Hand. His jaw dropped, and his soul trembled. An aura of deathpletely enveloped him.

    The iron spear kept growingrger in his eyes. Lu Yang wanted to release his qi to block and retreat, but his mind waspletely shaken. He couldn¡¯t react to the attack in time, and the spear skewered him.

    ¡°I had considered sparing your minions, but must you insist on seeking death? Since that is the case, I¡¯ll grant your wish reluctantly and send you to hell.¡±

    That was thest sentence Lu Yang ever heard before his consciousness fell into infinite darkness.

    He erupted into a rain of blood, obliterated by the force of Chen Fan''s strike, leaving nothing but lifeless fleshy chunks.

    A single spear instantly killed the third-level Core Formation realm expert Lu Yang, patriarch of the Lu n.

    Silence descended upon the entire Qin n mansion.

 Chapter 462 - My Name is Chen Fan

    <h4>Chapter 462 - My Name is Chen Fan</h4>

    Heaven and earth fell silent.

    Everyone stared at the mist of blood that floated in the sky, feeling as if their souls had shattered.

    With a single spear thrust, Lu Yang, the third-level Core Formation realm expert, was dead!

    ¡°He¡¯s dead! Lu n¡¯s patriarch is dead!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, what did I just see? That young man killed him with a single stab. Such terrifying strength!¡±

    ¡°No wonder they dared to cause trouble today. They have the strength to back it up.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Very soon, the entire Qin n mansion erupted into amotion.

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    On the Lu n¡¯s side, everyone came to their senses, each of them crying tears of blood. Someone had killed their patriarch in public with a single attack; he couldn¡¯t even defend himself in the slightest.

    Zhu Han¡¯s back was drenched in ayer of cold sweat. Terrified, he looked at Chen Fan, who stood still holding his spear.

    ¡°This guy...¡±

    Nangong Baxiong¡¯s gaze flickered intensely as he looked at Chen Fan; his aura was wildly domineering. He was also shaken inside, in disbelief at what he¡¯d just seen.

    He knew Chen Fan was very strong, but he didn¡¯t know Chen Fan could kill someone at the third level so effortlessly now. The most unsettling part was that he couldn''t discern Chen Fan''s cultivation level.

    Qin Wudi, Nangong Ling, and the others¡¯ gazes turned icy.

    They hadn¡¯t expected someone to disrupt Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s wedding and murder people in public. This was not a good omen. This was a tant provocation toward them and a p to their faces.

    Chen Fan looked over, meeting Qin Wudi¡¯s murderous gaze, and said, ¡°You¡¯re Qin Wudi, right? You¡¯re the one who used your n''s power to issue a kill order on my father, correct? We came here today for an exnation. I can give you a way out. Cripple your cultivation, and I¡¯ll spare your Qin n. Otherwise, the Qin n will cease to exist from today on!¡±

    His words resounded, shaking everyone¡¯s souls. The crowd couldn''t believe what they had just heard.

    If Qin Wudi didn¡¯t meet his demands, he would wipe out the Qin n. Was he crazy? How could he make such an outrageous demand?

    Did he really think he could take on the mighty Qin n after killing Lu Yang?

    How na?ve!

    Several Core Formation realm experts from the Qin n immediately shouted in anger, their gazes fierce and cold. They released their auras, sweeping across the mansion. An atmosphere of intense oppression fell on the Qin n residence.

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    As the number one great n of the imperial city, the Qin n had over a thousand years of heritage. They had over twenty experts in the Core Formation realm. It was truly a behemoth, one not easily provoked.

    Yet, here stood a youth demanding their patriarch cripple his own cultivation before countless onlookers, threatening to annihte the Qin n. It was a tant humiliation.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Qin n elder presiding over the wedding was Qin Zhong. Being at the fifth level, he was considered an absolute higher-up of the Qin n.

    His icy gaze turned tangible, and an aura so cold it sealed heaven and earth appeared, altering the weather and making snowkes drift down from the skies. A chilling intent swept across, sending a bone-deep shiver through everyone present.

    ¡°Little bastard, do you know that your words have earned you a million deaths?! Now, I¡¯ll also offer you a way out. Cripple your cultivation, kneel for three years in front of our Qin n¡¯s gates, and we¡¯ll spare your worthless life. Otherwise, die!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s souls trembled violently.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered talking nonsense with him. He simply wiggled his index finger at Qin Zhong contemptuously.

    ¡°Come on!¡±

    The gesture angered Qin Zhong to the point of smoking from his seven orifices. Clouds and mist formed above his head, and he nearly passed out from being angered by Chen Fan¡¯s mockery.

    Unable to contain his fury any longer, Qin Zhong erupted with rage.

    An ice crystal-like qi pir rushed out from his skull, spreading an even colder aura that formed ayer of frost on the ground, producing cracking noises.

    ¡°Hold on!¡± a voice interrupted. It was Nangong Ling. ¡°No need for you to take action, Qin Zhong. Back then, we let Chen Zhengqing escape with this sinful bastard. Today, let our Nangong n capture him ourselves!¡±

    He turned to a Sun Bloodline elder behind him and said, ¡°Nangong Zhao, you go!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    Nangong Zhao¡¯s cultivation and strength were second only to Nangong Ling among the elders of the Sun Bloodline and on par with Qin Zhong.

    Nangong Ling hadn¡¯t done that to give Chen Fan an easy time. Rather, it was a strategic move to demonstrate his stance and align more closely with the Qin n''s interests.

    Nangong Zhao flew up with his hands behind his back. His clothing fluttered in the wind, making him look like an immortal.

    ¡°If my guess isn¡¯t wrong, Wang Dongfan, you hid your true cultivation level back then.¡±

    ¡°Wang Dongfan...¡± Chen Fan smiled at hearing the name and said, ¡°My name is Chen Fan. Wang Dongfan is just an alias of mine. Of course, whether it¡¯s Wang Dongfan or Chen Fan, they¡¯re both me.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan? He said his name is Chen Fan?¡±

    Amotion broke out in the crowd below.

    ¡°Is there a problem?¡± Someone asked, looking puzzled.

    ¡°Problem? If he¡¯s that Chen Fan from the Spring Autumn Sect... That¡¯s a big freaking problem! I heard that half a year ago, something huge happened in that sect. A newly promoted holy disciple engaged in a life-and-death battle with a veteran holy disciple named Feng Tianxia. The newbie killed the veteran expert who was at the sixth level, shaking the entire sect. Chen Fan is that newbie¡ªthe number two holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, second only to Duan Jingtian!¡±

    As soon as those words were out for everyone to hear, the mor among the crowd intensified.

    ¡°Right, I have also heard about this. The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Chen Fan seems to have set up a three-year agreement with Duan Jingtian; it caused quite a stir in the Great Chu Empire over two years ago.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, is he that Chen Fan from the Spring Autumn Sect?¡±

    Countless people sized up Chen Fan once more, their eyes flickering with curiosity and shock.

    Although the Spring Autumn Sect was far from the imperial city, news of such significance couldn''t be contained. It had spread to the imperial city long ago and caused quite amotion there a few months ago.

    Nangong Zhao heard the crowd¡¯s discussion below as well. His expression changed drastically, and he swallowed hard.

    If Chen Fan was indeed the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s holy disciple Chen Fan, then he was simply courting death by challenging Chen Fan!

    Chen Fan looked at the stiffened Nangong Zhao with a vague smile, shifted his gaze onto Nangong Xuan, and said, ¡°Old geezer, someone from the Nangong n is about to attack me. What do you say?

    ¡°I¡¯m asking you now. This trash wants to attack me. Are you giving your silent approval? If so, then I have no need to show any mercy. That also means that you can give up on your position as the Grand Elder from today onward!¡±

    Chen Fan''s words sent another shockwave through the crowd.

 Chapter 463 - Nangong Xuanâ€™s Choice

    <h4>Chapter 463 - Nangong Xuan¡¯s Choice</h4>

    Chen Fan''s words had sent another shockwave through the crowd.

    Was Chen Fan threatening Nangong Xuan?

    All eyes turned to Nangong Xuan, curious about his response. The corners of Nangong Xuan''s eyes twitched fiercely on his withered face. His stern gaze met Chen Fan¡¯s gaze. An aura awakened within him, like a slumbering lion suddenly roaring to life.

    As the Nangong n¡¯s grand elder, Nangong Xuan held the highest authority and possessed the strongest cultivation, at the seventh level.

    Such a level made him a top-tier expert across the entire imperial city. A mere stomp from him could leave others trembling. Even in a sect like the Spring Autumn Sect, he would be considered an absolute powerhouse.

    Nangong Baxiong shouted from the side, ¡°Grand Elder...¡±

    He didn¡¯t know what Nangong Xuan would choose. If he picked the Qin n, what should their Moon Bloodline do?

    He was torn between his n and his nephew.

    Nangong Xuan ignored Nangong Baxiong. His sharp gaze remained fixed on Chen Fan as if trying to see through him.

    ¡°No need to look at me like that. I only gave you a choice because my mother is a member of your n. Given that you ordered her house arrest, I would have killed you right away if you were anyone else,¡± Chen Fan said inly.

    He talked like Nangong Xuan was just an ordinary guy, and he had only let the grand elder live on ount of Nangong Yue.

    Hearing such bold words from Chen Fan, many people''s eyes twitched with disbelief.

    Even if he was Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Chen Fan, he had only killed a sixth-level expert in that life-and-death fight. Nangong Xuan, on the other hand, was an expert at the seventh level. The gap between them was enormous.

    Nangong Ling said, ¡°Grand Elder, you mustn¡¯t spare this little bastard. It¡¯s our Nangong Qingshuang wedding day. We¡¯ll lose all face if we allow him to cause trouble like this. If you side with him, what will the Qin n think?¡±

    ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s your decision? Of course, this trash¡¯s life hinges on your decision,¡± Chen Fan said lightly, deciding Nangong Zhao¡¯s fate in a few sentences.

    Nangong Zhao was cursing inside. By now, it was clear that this Chen Fan was indeed the one from the Spring Autumn Sect. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be acting so arrogantly, disregarding an expert at the fifth level.

    He wanted to retreat, but an invisible pressure descended, rooting him to his ce. Chen Fan¡¯s light voice rang in his ear. ¡°You¡¯d better not move, or you¡¯ll die immediately!¡±

    Sweat poured down Nangong Zhao''s face as he stood frozen in ce.

    Nangong Xuan stared fixedly at Chen Fan, and suddenly made a move!

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    An ear-piercing noise sliced through the air as Nangong Xuan shot forward like aet. A thunderp resounded as he unleashed his cultivation, sending a powerful palm strike at Chen Fan. He didn''t say a word, but his actions made his choice clear.

    ¡°Hoho, it seems like you¡¯re tired of living, old geezer. Fine, I gave you a chance, but you just had to choose death. Allow me to send you on your way!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly thrust his spear violently. Nangong Zhao couldn¡¯t even scream before he exploded and his fleshy chunks rained down. He simultaneously thrust his palm, executing Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    An intent to reap lives swept across the area, shaking the world.

    With a rumble, Nangong Xuan¡¯s attack shattered, and he was sent flying backward. He spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood in the air.

    <i>Crash!</i>

    Nangong Xuan could not steady himself and crashed into the banquet, making a swathe of people fall and scream miserably.

    ¡°You...¡± Nangong Xuan finally steadied himself, shock and horror etched on his aged face.

    He never expected that one attack from Chen Fan could send him flying. The terrifying strength of the attack wreaked havoc inside him. It was extremely rming.

    Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent gaze fell on Nangong Xuan, making him tremble fiercely.

    ¡°What do you mean, ¡®you?¡¯ Are you thinking about begging for mercy? Toote! I gave you a way out, but you chose the way to hell. So, you¡¯re destined to die today. No one can save you today!¡±

    Nangong Xuan noticed that Chen Fan''s eyes were filled with nothing but icy killing intent.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The crowd mored once more.

    ¡°Is this for real? Even a seventh-level expert failed to withstand a palm strike from Chen Fan. He really is the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s holy disciple, Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°How terrifying. It turns out that Chen Fan is so powerful. Even Nangong Xuan is no match for him.¡±

    ¡°Nangong Xuan is too old. Even though he is at the seventh level, his vitality and vigor are on the decline. He¡¯s long since past his prime; he is barely a seventh-level expert.¡±

    ¡°That doesn¡¯t make Chen Fan any less terrifying! However, no matter how strong he is, I¡¯m afraid he won¡¯t escape death today. After all, we¡¯re at the Qin n!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Even without considering the others, I fear Qin Wudi could defeat Chen Fan. Although Qin Wudi is also at the seventh level, he is at his peak, far beyond what Nangong Xuan canpare to. If he acts, Chen Fan stands no chance of surviving.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was astonished by Chen Fan¡¯s strength, but they still thought that Chen Fan was courting death.

    ¡°Grand Elder!¡± Nangong Baxiong shouted withplicated feelings. He had anticipated this oue, yet it was still hard to ept.

    He understood why Nangong Xuan made this decision. Supporting Chen Fan would mean fully offending the Qin n.

    Chen Fan had walked into an inescapable trap. No matter how powerful he was, he couldn''t match the Qin n.

    Thus, Nangong Xuan made that choice.

    Chen Fan stepped forward, and his aura erupted. His seventh-level aura covered heaven and earth, shrouding all directions.

    ¡°Have you thought it through, Qin Wudi? Is it crippling your cultivation, or is it the annihtion of your n?¡±

    Everyone felt difficulty breathing, trembling under Chen Fan¡¯s aura.

    ¡°Seventh level of the Core Formation realm!¡±

    ¡°Woah... Seventh level! It¡¯s unbelievable. How old is he? Twenty, maybe? A twenty-year-old at the seventh level of the Core Formation realm...¡±

    Countless people were shaken.

    ¡°Everyone, my father and I are here today to settle our scores. Those not involved should leave now, or you might get caught in the chaos!¡± Chen Fan''s voice echoed powerfully.

    <i>tter, tter...</i>

    Countless people rushed out of the Qin n mansion immediately.

    Currently, the fight between Chen Fan and the Qin n was like a battle of immortals, so ordinary people would only suffer. They didn¡¯t want to be swept up in the chaos and meet an untimely death.

    Naturally, Qin Wudi wouldn¡¯t, nor could he, stop them.

    His icy gaze fell on Chen Fan. A terrifying aura erupted, sweeping the heavens. Slicing noises rang out in space.

    A sharp saber intent emanated from Qin Wudi, like a divine sword emerging to cleanse the world with a bloodbath.

 Chapter 464 - Absolute Saber Qin Wudi

    <h4>Chapter 464 - Absolute Saber Qin Wudi</h4>

    <i>Buzz, buzz!</i>

    A sharp saber intent emanated from Qin Wudi, like a divine sword emerging to cleanse the world with a bloodbath.

    <i>Rip! Rip! Rip!</i>

    The sound of clothing tearing filled the air. The invisible saber intent was so powerful that it shredded the clothes of those nearby.

    Feeling the terrifying saber intent spread through the space, countless people trembled, their minds shaken.

    Countless voices of discussion arose, awed by the saber intent that burst from Qin Wudi.

    ¡°Such terrifying saber intent!¡±

    ¡°As expected of Absolute Saber Qin Wudi. Just this saber intent was enough to strike fear into others. I wonder what will happen once he actually draws his de.¡±

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>. When was thest time he personally fought? People have almost forgotten his title as the Absolute Saber. We are fortunate enough to witness his return.¡±

    ¡°How many moves will Qin Wudi take to defeat Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Qin Wudi stood up and stepped forth. He stepped on the air as if walking on t ground, looking confident and at ease.

    ¡°Chen Fan, huh!¡±

    The surrounding space distorted as he moved, apanied by fierce wind noises. It was the sound of his saber qi cutting through the air.

    A domineering yet sharp aura suddenly blew toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care if you are Chen Fan from the Spring Autumn Sect. You came to my n, murdered my people, and ruined my son¡¯s wedding. That is a capital offense. Not even the Spring Autumn Sect can save you now!¡±

    His icy words echoed through the space, filled with chilling killing intent.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was a big sect with Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. Even the four great ns of the imperial city paled inparison to the power of such sects.

    Not even the royal family would easily provoke the sects.

    Yet, here was Qin Wudi dering that he would kill Chen Fan, a holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect. Such arrogance!

    The status difference between a sect¡¯s holy disciple and an inner sect disciple was immense.

    If Qin Wudi were killing a core disciple with reason on his side, although they would be furious, perhaps they wouldn¡¯t attack the Qin n.

    However, if a holy disciple were killed, regardless of the justification, the Spring Autumn Sect would never let it go.

    Did Qin Wudi have the power to oppose such a sect?

    Obviously not!

    While someone at the seventh level would indeed be considered an expert; in front of the Spring Autumn Sect, it still didn¡¯t amount to anything. The sect had plenty of seventh-level Core Formation realm experts.

    ¡°You want to kill me? With just you?¡± Chen Fan smiled contemptuously, utterly unconcerned by Qin Wudi¡¯s threat. Even if Qin Wudi were at the eighth level, he couldn¡¯t have killed Chen Fan.

    Qin Wudi did not make any more threats; instead, he directly attacked.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    As he raised his arm, the surrounding terrifying saber qi instantly converged on Qin Wudi, transforming into a qi saber that emitted a brilliant saber light. It shed down violently, making heaven and earth lose their colors, filling it with nothing but clear and cold saber light.

    A hundred-meter-long saber light swept across the sky, dazzling yet terrifying.

    Its terrifying aura cut through everything, and the space produced bursts of noise. Even the air failed to escape and waspressed until it was as dense as steel.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Qin Wudi shocked everyone as soon as he struck with his immense strength.

    Just this attack was enough to kill seventh-level experts like Nangong Xuan.

    The crowd murmured, recalling old news.

    ¡°How truly terrifying. As expected of the Absolute Saber. Even a casual move from him is a terrifying saber technique. He has honed his saber intent to the extreme.¡±

    ¡°Twenty years ago, Qin Wudi was touted as the most talented youth in the imperial city. His de art shocked the world and left the spirits weeping, dominating an era in the imperial city.¡±

    ¡°It is rumored that Qin Wudi was once a disciple of the de Thunder Mountain, which is a big sect like the Spring Autumn Sect. All the disciples of that sect practiced de art and tempered their des with lightning. Their de art is berserk and violent.¡±

    ¡°You see that? That guy with a de at his back is a holy disciple of the de Thunder Mountain. Although Qin Wudi has left the de Thunder Mountain to lead the Qin n, he had once cultivated there, so they sent someone to offer their blessings.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hiss</i>, seriously? A holy disciple of the de Thunder Mountain came to congratte them? No wonder Qin Wudi dismissed the Spring Autumn Sect earlier. He has such powerful connections.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The terrifying saber light shed down violently, tearing everything apart. Anything and everything in its path would seemingly be annihted.

    Under this saber, Chen Zhengqing felt like his soul was about to be torn apart. Horrified, he looked at Chen Fan¡¯s back, worried.

    Although Chen Fan defeated Nangong Xuan with a single palm strike earlier, it was as the crowd had said: Nangong Xuan was too old, nearing the end of his life. His physical strength, vitality, and mental strength had all declined, and he could barely maintain his seventh-level Core Formation realm power.

    The strength gap between Nangong Xuan, who was in his twilight years, and Qin Wudi, who was in his prime, was massive, despite them both being at the seventh level.

    Chen Fan also sensed the terrifying force descending upon him, like two invisible hands trying to rip him apart from left and right.

    A light flickered in his eyes. He held his iron spear tightly, his muscles bulged, and he thrust it violently.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    He had stabbed with earth-shattering might.

    A streak of terrifying spear light rushed out like a dragon.

    It roared furiously, shaking the heavens, wanting to tear everything apart. With a rumble, it collided with the hundred-meter-long saber light.

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    The space seemed on the verge of shattering under the impact. Endless terrifying storms surged, spreading wildly, scattering the white clouds in the sky.

    The Qin n mansion was ravaged by the fierce winds, leaving marks all over the ce.

    Chen Fan was like a god of the spear, standing in mid-air, unmovable amidst the fierce winds and massive waves. A powerful force field formed around him, distorting the space. All the saber qi that came ravaging was swallowed up. Even Chen Zhengqing was not affected in the slightest.

    ¡°So, this is all you amount to, Qin Wudi. It¡¯s nothing much. You don¡¯t deserve to be called invincible!¡± [1]

    His words carried a strong sense of contempt. An iparably cold and sharp light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, piercing the air like a real de.

    With a swish, he disappeared and reappeared in front of Qin Wudi. He raised his hand and sent out a palm strike.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The entire world shook under the power of his palm, rumbling like thunderps as if the lord of heaven was furious.

    The terrifying palm force rolled toward Qin Wudi like a towering wave.

    1. Wudi means unequaled, without rival, invincible. ?

 Chapter 465 - Is That All?

    <h4>Chapter 465 - Is That All?</h4>

    A wave of fear spread as Chen Fan struck out in the air.

    The terrifying force swept out, setting off a monstrous wave in space. The terrifying palm force, powerful enough to topple mountains and overturn seas, pressed down like an ancient divine mountain and destroyed everything in its path.

    Qin Wudi realized just how terrifying the attack was and his expression immediately changed, his face filled with shock.

    He could even smell the scent of death from this palm.

    Qin Wudi finally understood how Chen Fan defeated Nangong Xuan with a single palm strike. Chen Fan¡¯s strength had reached a terrifying level!

    With a ng, Qin Wudi drew his weapon, a pitch-ck saber. Lightning shed on it, crackling non-stop and blowing up the air.

    Once a disciple of de Thunder Mountain, Qin Wudi had mastered their de techniques.

    These techniques involved drawing heavenly lightning to temper the de, making the attacks wild and explosive, vastly increasing their power.

    Although he had long since left the de Thunder Mountain, he never abandoned their cultivation methods. He often drew heavenly lightning to temper his de. Over time, his de techniques had not only remained sharp but had grown even more ferocious and mighty.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    As Qin Wudi shed down, a lightning dragon seemed to burst from his saber, colliding fiercely with Chen Fan¡¯s palm force. Another terrifying, huge explosion urred, shaking the space violently.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Someone was thrown back by the explosion¡ªQin Wudi. And as he emerged from it, an intent to reap lives erupted from the storm.

    Under everyone¡¯s stunned gazes, the terrifying storm¡ªan aftermath of their sh¡ªcalmed down, crushed by a palm seal with only three fingers.

    Northern Star Reaper Hand!

    The three fingers were like an eagle¡¯s w and were enveloped in star qi, forming the characters ¡°cripple,¡± ¡°absolute,¡± and ¡°destroy.¡±

    Carrying a powerful intent to reap lives, it swept toward Qin Wudi. His irises shrank to the size of pins, but his reactions were swift. As he channeled his true primeval power into his saber, the lightning on it grew even more intense and wild.

    ¡°Wind Thunder Break!¡±

    He swung it again, and a wind and thunderous intent erupted. It was an earth-tier de art from the de Thunder Mountain.

    A saber light appeared, containing the power of wind and thunder, and shed the Northern Star Reaper Hand. It chopped off the first finger¡ªcripple¡ªand erupted with shocking might.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Another series of explosions boomed. The Northern Star Reaper Hand was destroyed, but Qin Wudi¡¯s Wind Thunder Break was also annihted.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly and swooped over. He raised his hand and grabbed at the empty air. The space around Qin Wudi copsed inward and the air solidified, forming a space as dense as steel to confine him.

    ¡°sh, sh, sh!¡±

    Qin Wudi¡¯s long hair danced wildly. Saber intent rose from him, rushing into the sky. Traces of fierce and berserk saber qi shed around him, slicing through the air and tearing holes in the space.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan lunged, thrusting his iron spear with such force that it seemed to invert space-time, fragmenting reality itself.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The saber qi surrounding Qin Wudi copsed and shattered, and a terrifying force struck him. He spewed fresh blood furiously and crashed toward the ground like a bird with its wings clipped.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The crowd erupted in shock.

    None had expected Chen Fan to be so powerful to make the Absolute Saber Qin Wudi seem weak. In just a few moves, Qin Wudi was knocked out of the air, unable to resist.

    ¡°Is this for real? Chen Fan is so terrifying.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, this is the strength of a sect¡¯s holy disciple. It¡¯s frightening how hepletely crushes those at the same cultivation level!¡±

    ¡°No wonder he dares to cause a scene in the Qin n mansion. It¡¯s not just because he is a holy disciple; he also has the strength to back his bold words. Who in the Qin n could possibly stand against him?¡±

    ¡°Even with unparalleled strength, defeating a crowd is hard. Now that Qin Wudi is down, the Qin n¡¯s Core Formation realm experts will likely surround and try to kill Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone was astonished.

    The faces of the Qin n members changed drastically, especially Qin Jian. He recalled disregarding Chen Fan a year ago at the Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet but was ultimately defeated. He had vowed to cultivate hard and kill Chen Fan sooner orter to wash away the shame.

    However, a yearter, Chen Fan returned with fierce momentum. He barged into the Qin n mansion and messed up his wedding. And the gap between him and Chen Fan was like heaven and earth now. Even his father, whom he greatly admired, was no match for him.

    Nangong Qingshuang was also trembling slightly. Today was supposed to be her shining moment, but because of Chen Fan, no one paid any attention to her.

    Apart from the Qin n members, Nangong Xuan, Nangong Ling, and even the ns that had hunted Chen Zhengqing were terrified.

    They looked at the figure in the air wielding an iron spear like an invincible god of war, and their hearts trembled.

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    ¡°Patriarch!¡±

    The Qin n¡¯s experts hurriedly ran over and helped Qin Wudi up.

    ¡°<i>Cough, cough</i>.¡± Qin Wudi coughed twice intensely, coughing out blood. He pushed the Qin n members away and said, ¡°No need to panic. I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Qin Wudi looked at Chen Fan with an icy gaze and yelled, ¡°Qin n members, follow me and kill our enemy together!¡±

    He had realized that he stood no chance against Chen Fan alone. And it was also clear that only one of them would survive today.

    Naturally, he wouldn¡¯t sit around and wait for his doom, nor would he abandon his numerical advantage. After all, engaging Chen Fan in a one-on-one fight would be courting death.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Immediately, numerous wind-breaking noises rang out in the Qin n mansion, as experts leaped over from all directions.

    Even those in secluded cultivation deep inside the mansion¡ªunaware of the happenings outside¡ªrushed out when they heard Qin Wudi¡¯s roar.

    ¡°Who dares to throw a tantrum in our Qin n? Kill without mercy!¡±

    ¡°Kill without mercy!¡±

    Immediately, cold voices echoed, and killing intent filled the air. All the Core Formation realm experts from the Qin n had gathered¡ªtwenty-three experts. Theirbined cultivation power swept across the heavens, shaking the hearts of everyone present.

    Among these people, the strongest were those at the sixth level, and the weakest were at the first level. All of them looked at Chen Fan with icy killing intent.

    Despite Chen Fan¡¯s unparalleled strength, could he survive the siege of more than twenty Core Formation realm experts?

    The nearby crowd felt their scalps tingle as if witnessing the end of the world.

    No matter how powerful Chen Fan was, there was no way he could take on the wrath of more than twenty Core Formation realm experts!

    Behind Chen Fan, Chen Zhengqing was scared out of his wits, his body trembling and his mind screaming to flee. The overwhelming aura of the Core Formation realm experts made it hard for him to breathe.

    <i>We went too far!</i> Chen Zhengqing smiled bitterly inside.

    However, Chen Fan was unfazed by the pressure from over twenty Core Formation realm experts. His indifferent gaze swept over them, one by one, showing a look of contempt.

    ¡°Is that all?¡±

 Chapter 466 - Killing People Like Cutting Grass

    <h4>Chapter 466 - Killing People Like Cutting Grass</h4>

    Chen Fan ignored the overwhelming auras of the twenty-three Core Formation realm experts, his indifferent gaze sweeping across them. His icy voice echoed. ¡°Is that all?¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The crowd felt as if their heads were about to explode.

    What did Chen Fan mean by that?

    Were over twenty Core Formation realm experts fighting him in tandem not enough?

    ¡°Nangong n, follow me!¡± ordered Nangong Xuan. Immediately, everyone except the Moon Bloodline members stood up, their auras surging.

    Nangong Xuan¡¯s decision to attack Chen Fan had decided the path for the entire Nangong n. They had no choice but to stand on the Qin n¡¯s side now.

    Although Chen Fan possessed tremendous individual strength, capable of defeating anyone here, could he survive if so many Core Formation realm experts attacked him together?

    As for the repercussions from the Spring Autumn Sect, would they punish them all? After all, experts from many ns apart from the Qin n were joining the fight to deal with Chen Fan.

    ¡°Nangong Baxiong, why aren¡¯t you making a move!¡± Nangong Ling shouted coldly when he saw Nangong Baxiong and the other Moon Bloodline members not joining the fight.

    A look of sorrow appeared in Nangong Baxiong¡¯s eyes. He nced at Nangong Xuan and said, ¡°Grand Elder, this is thest time I¡¯ll call you that. From now on, I, Nangong Baxiong, represent the Moon Bloodline and dere our separation from the Nangong n! Twenty years ago, I was powerless to help my own sister. Today, I refuse to join you in attacking my own nephew!¡±

    Nangong Baxiong¡¯s deration made Nangong Xuan and the others¡¯ expressions be iparably ugly.

    ¡°Hahahaha, excellent. Uncle, after I get rid of all these people and cleanse the Nangong n, you will lead the entire Nangong n.¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, undaunted by all the Core Formation realm experts surrounding him.

    Nangong Baxiong smiled helplessly and bitterly at Chen Fan¡¯s words, unable to respond.

    <i>You brat, can''t you see the situation you''re in?</i>

    ¡°What about you people?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze shifted to the ns that had participated in hunting down Chen Zhengqing. ¡°I can give you a chance as well. If you step in and deal with the Qin n, I¡¯ll consider it atonement for your past sins!¡±

    ¡°Zhu Han, think carefully. This little bastard is as good as dead!¡± Nangong Ling warned.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish.</i>

    Zhu Han and the other ns also made their choices. Their Core Formation realm experts stepped forward, their auras and killing intent erupting.

    Choice? They never had such a thing.

    Chen Fan had proimed that he would spare them if they dealt with the Qin n with him. However, they knew he was doomed. If they sided with Chen Fan and he died, the Qin n and the Nangong n would not spare them

    Since they first attacked Chen Zhengqing, their ns¡¯ fates were tied to the Qin n. They were like grasshoppers on the same rope.

    ¡°Heavens! The Qin n¡¯s side has... F-fifty Core Formation realm experts!!! Isn¡¯t this too much?¡±

    ¡°Fifty? Isn¡¯t that like half the number of Core Formation realm experts in the entire imperial city? All that just to kill one guy? Heavens, I feel like I¡¯m about to suffocate.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t put it that way. Although there are indeed fifty Core Formation realm experts, about eighty to ny percent of them are in the low-level Core Formation realm. Only Nangong Ling, Nangong Tong, and a few from the Qin n are in the middle-level Core Formation realm, while only Qin Wudi and Nangong Xuan are in the high-level Core Formation realm. Even if they all worked together and in sync, they would only be as strong as one eighth-level expert!¡±

    ¡°You have a point. Although the saying goes that many ants can kill an elephant, it depends on how strong those ants are and how weak the elephant is. Even an army of experts at the third level can do nothing to someone at the seventh level.¡±

    ¡°But is Chen Fan that strong? I don¡¯t think so. He will not survive this.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was stunned by the terrifying disy of power as fifty Core Formation realm experts surrounded Chen Fan inyers. Each of them released their auras, and their qi reached the clouds. The power of golden cores rushed into the skies, stirring the winds and the clouds.

    A first-level Core Formation realm expert was considered a top-tier expert in the imperial city. A n with such an expert could rise to be a prestigious third-rate n.

    ¡°Little beast, even if you have three heads and six arms, you will die today. No one can save you!¡± Nangong Ling¡¯s gaze was stern, his killing intent rushing into the skies.

    Chen Fan smiled contemptuously and said, ¡°With just this group of weaklings? It¡¯s not that I¡¯m looking down on you people, but even if more of you show up, you¡¯ll only increase the casualties.¡±

    ¡°Cut the crap. Together, kill!¡± Qin Wudimanded coldly. Immediately, the fierce cultivation of fifty Core Formation realm experts erupted in unison.

    However, Chen Fan struck before they could unleash their moves. He wasn¡¯t stupid enough to let them bombard him. That wouldn¡¯t kill, but it certainly wouldn¡¯t feel good.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    His Wings of Rain Dragon spread open, and gusts of wind swept through. Like a phantom, he disappeared and reappeared before an expert from the Qin n.

    This person did not even have the time to react before an iron spear pierced his head.

    ¡°Quick, attack, he¡¯s over there!¡±

    However, Chen Fan was like a gust of wind. He would move, a head would fly up, and then a blood fountain would erupt from a headless corpse.

    These people were simply powerless to resist; they couldn¡¯t even react to his movements.

    Still, they gathered their strength and channeled their qi, preparing tounch attacks on Chen Fan.

    ¡°Damn it, he is...¡± As two Core Formation realm experts from the Qin n tried to shout, an iron spear pierced through their chests out of the blue. They died instantly, and their corpses exploded.

    ¡°You...¡± Qin Wudi was furious, smoke rising from his orifices. In a brief moment, several of the Qin n¡¯s experts had been killed.

    However, the only response Qin Wudi got was a stab from Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear. Another third-level Core Formation realm expert from the Qin n exploded in the air.

    ¡°Did you think you could match me with more people? How ridiculous! I¡¯ll show you what strength and despair truly mean!¡± Wielding his iron spear, Chen Fan moved through the crowd as if he were taking a stroll, as fast as lightning, taking one life after another.

    ¡°You damned little bastard, die! Wind Thunder Break!¡± Qin Wudi¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot. His aura spewed out from his skull, rushing to the skies. Suddenly, all the Qin n¡¯s buildings shook continuously. A terrifying saber light came shing at Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan easily dodged the attack with a sh.

    With a swish, Qin Wudi¡¯s attack split a Core Formation realm expert from the Nangong n. A rain of blood fell.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan disappeared and appeared in front of Zhu Han.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    He thrust his spear, and it pierced Zhu Han¡¯s true primeval like butter. Deep remorse appeared in his eyes.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t waver in the slightest. He continued moving around, continuing his killing spree.

    Core Formation realm experts fell one after another, like cutting grass at night.

 Chapter 467 â€“ Terrified

    <h4>Chapter 467 ¨C Terrified</h4>

    Core Formation realm experts dropped from the sky like flies, bringing with them a bloody downpour.

    For Chen Fan, killing these people was effortless, like cutting grass.

    Often, they only felt a breeze and their vision blurring. Before they could react, Chen Fan had already taken their lives.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Miserable cries resounded in the skies above the Qin n mansion, spreading five kilometers out.

    Below, the Qin n members watched in fear and sorrow as their Core Formation realm experts were killed and fell one after another.

    These were the n elders the members usually admired and feared; today, they were like ants before Chen Fan.

    ¡°A killing star. This Chen Fan is definitely a killing star! Those are Core Formation realm experts, top martial artists who could kill hundreds, if not thousands, with a single breath. Why are they like pigs or dogs in Chen Fan¡¯s hands?¡±

    ¡°Ten Core Formation realm experts have died in mere moments. This must be a nightmare for all the Core Formation realm experts present.¡±

    ¡°Core Formation realm experts aren¡¯t... invincible? There¡¯s always someone above, a heaven outside the heavens. Even Core Formation realm experts are like ants in front of stronger people, killed at a whim.¡±

    ¡°This fight will be like an earthquake and shake up the imperial city today. The Qin, the Nangong, the Zhu, and many other prestigious ns joined forces but were still demolished by Chen Fan alone, crying for their fathers and mothers. I¡¯m afraid these ns will be history.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Around the Qin n mansion, countless people felt their scalps tingle and chills run down their spines as they watched Chen Fan carve his way through like an unstoppable force. They felt like their hearts were about to stop beating.

    ¡°Damn it! Little beast, die for me!¡± bellowed an aged elder from the Qin n. He was as old as Nangong Xuan and at the sixth level. He charged and wed at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡± Chen Fan scoffed, blowing a breath toward him. The elder¡¯s primeval qi hand disintegrated in mid-air. He then grabbed at the empty air with his left hand. The Heaven Piercing Spear materialized and shot out violently, disappearing into the void.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The void shattered and exploded, pinning the Qin n elder in mid-air. The space turned crimson as he flew backward, disappearing from sight.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear carried Qin Wanguo¡¯s corpse tens of kilometers away, destroying a flourishing restaurant.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Qin Wanguo? Doesn¡¯t he guard the Qin n¡¯s treasury? Why is a spear sticking out of his chest? What¡¯s happening?!¡±

    Despite the earth-shaking events at the Qin n mansion, the other side of the imperial city remained unaware until Qin Wanguo¡¯s corpse flew over there. Only then did the crowd realize something major was happening at the Qin n.

    ¡°Let¡¯s quickly go and see what¡¯s happening. Qin Wanguo was killed with a spear. Something huge is definitely happening. We can¡¯t miss this.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, isn¡¯t it the Qin n¡¯s young patriarch¡¯s wedding today? Why did something like this happen? One of their elders was murdered.¡±

    ¡°Who exactly was it? To dare kill the Qin n¡¯s people. Are they tired of living?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? What exactly is going on? What happened?¡±

    ¡°Such berserk primeval qi of heaven and earth!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire imperial city seemed to awaken in shock simultaneously.

    Silhouettes rose into the air one after another, all flying toward the Qin n mansion.

    As they approached, they sensed the intense fluctuations rippling through the space, and their expressions turned to horror.

    ¡°Heavens, look at that! Someone is causing a huge scene at the Qin n. There¡¯s a huge group surrounding a single person. Who is he? My god, why do Core Formation realm experts seem as weak as ants in front of him!¡±

    ¡°The Zhang n¡¯s patriarch is dead, skewered with a single spear thrust. He couldn¡¯t even react to it?¡±

    ¡°What exactly is happening? Is it not Qin Jian¡¯s big wedding? Why did such a fierce battle break out?¡±

    More and more people flew in from all directions, witnessing the carnage. They were all appalled, their scalps tingling as they saw Chen Fan decimating Core Formation realm experts.

    Yang Rong and Su Yihai watched the battle from the skies above the Qin n mansion. They were big shots capable of shaking the imperial city with a stomp of their feet, yet their usual majesty and calmness were reced with looks of horror.

    Chen Fan was frighteningly powerful. Those who surrounded him, as he had said earlier, were all talk and no substance. They were scurrying around like rats, holding their heads.

    They had assumed that thebined might of all those ns would have an easy time dealing with Chen Fan. They felt confident that he wouldn¡¯t survive this ordeal.

    Yet, all of those mighty Core Formation Realm powerhouses seemed scared now. They were trembling all over, and some of them had even wet their pants. Their faces were void of color, terrified by the carnage.

    With his spear in hand, he effortlessly destroyed their attacks and rushed into their midst, wreaking havoc. Corpses fell one after another. Their initial momentum hadpletely vanished under Chen Fan''s relentless assault.

    ¡°The Qin n is done for!¡±

    ¡°The Nangong n is also finished.¡±

    Yang Rong and Su Yihai¡¯s hearts were trembling. Suddenly, they exchanged nces, noticing the brilliant light in each other''s eyes.

    Perhaps it would be better this way. The power structure in the imperial city would change, but their ns would remain unaffected. After this battle, their two ns would be the biggest winners.

    The Qin n had lorded over them for ages; it would be best if Chen Fan wiped them out.

    ¡°Curses! Damn it, damn it!¡±

    Qin Wudi¡¯s hair was disheveled, looking like a lunatic. His gaze was wild, filled with sorrow and rage.

    He was crying tears of blood in his heart. Chen Fan was paying special attention to the Qin n. Out of their twenty-three Core Formation realm experts, more than half of them were dead. As for those still alive, they were all trembling, their faces pale.

    Their pride and arrogance had been shattered by Chen Fan¡¯s massacre.

    ¡°Quick, go capture Chen Zhengqing!¡± ordered Qin Wudi.

    If things continued this way, they would all die. So, their only recourse was to capture Chen Zhengqing to threaten Chen Fan.

    Immediately, several silhouettes rushed toward Chen Zhengqing. None of them wanted to face Chen Fan, fearing they would be killed instantly, so they rushed for the weaker target.

    Among those rushing over was Nangong Ling.

    Seeing Nangong Ling and the others trying to make a move on Chen Zhengqing, Chen Fan became furious. His aura red up once more. His spear darted toward Nangong Xuan and left a bloody hole in him.

    ¡°You people are courting death!¡± Chen Fan shouted angrily, his voice shaking the heavens like thunder, causing Qin Wudi¡¯s qi and blood to churn restlessly.

 Chapter 468 - Qin Pokong

    <h4>Chapter 468 - Qin Pokong</h4>

    ¡°You people are looking to die!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously, shaking the heavens. The soundwaves made the several Core Formation realm experts nearby spew blood; they felt like a mountain had smashed into them.

    Chen Fan destroyed Qin Wudi¡¯s saber light and drew back to save Chen Zhengqing, but Qin Wudi did not let things go his way.

    ¡°Stay here!¡± Qin Wudi went all-out, igniting his golden core

    His aura immediately surged wildly as he wielded his saber with both hands and shed violently. The shocking saber light was about to devour Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan immediately felt a strong sense of danger.

    If he insisted on saving Chen Zhengqing, he would inevitably have to face Qin Wudi¡¯s powerful attack, which could cause him serious injury even if he survived.

    Suddenly, a voice reached his ear. Nangong Baxiong had taken action. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Xiaofan. I¡¯m here!¡±

    He had advanced to the fifth level. He moved and sent a palm strike at Nangong Ling, stopping thetter from capturing Chen Zhengqing.

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death, Nangong Baxiong!¡± Nangong Ling grew extremely furious at his thwarted attempt to capture Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Fan was too strong, so their only recourse was to capture Chen Zhengqing and use him to threaten him. Otherwise, their only option would be to ept death.

    Now that Nangong Baxiong had stepped in to stop Nangong Ling, it was no different from sentencing them all to death.

    Nangong Ling went berserk and attacked Nangong Baxiong. His cultivation was above Nangong Baxiong¡¯s, to begin with, so his frenzied attack quickly pushed Nangong Baxiong back. Covered in blood, Nangong Baxiong had difficulty holding on.

    ¡°I¡¯ll deal with Nangong Baxiong. The rest of you, go take down Chen Zhengqing!¡± Nangong Ling ordered.

    The others charged toward Chen Zhengqing but were stopped by Nangong Qingtian and the others. Unfortunately, those from the Moon Bloodline didn¡¯t have the numerical advantage and were weaker than their opponents. They failed to stop them.

    A third-level expert got close to Chen Zhengqing and was about to grab him; suddenly, a terrifying palm seal attacked him, seeminglying from the depths of space-time. It smashed the person into bits with a rumble.

    ¡°No need to be scared, Brother Chen. With us here, no one can do anything to you!¡±

    Yang Rong and Su Yihai had taken action. They had decided to side with and protect Chen Fan.

    Both were seasoned figures, and the current situation was clear to them. Chen Fan alone had ughtered enough to overwhelm Qin Wudi and the others with fear. They were no match for him, so their defeat was only a matter of time.

    Their two great ns stood to gain more if the Qin n was wiped out. So, they wanted to ensure things went ording to n. By stepping in to protect Chen Zhengqing, they also hoped to earn favor with Chen Fan.

    Qin Wudi nearly went crazy when he saw that their n had failed again due to Yang Rong and Su Yihai¡¯s interference. He roared angrily, ¡°Yang Rong, Su Yihai, you guys are looking to die!¡±

    ¡°They won¡¯t die, but you definitely will!¡± Chen Fan felt relieved due to Yang Rong and Su Yihai. A dreadful, chilling intent erupted from him, nearly freezing the space.

    He thrust his spear and destroyed Qin Wudi¡¯s saber attack empowered by his burning golden core. The spear then left a hole in his gut, fresh blood spewing non-stop.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan grabbed with his left hand, unleashing multiple Great Brahma Sacred Palm strikes that blew up three Core Formation realm experts.

    ¡°Die, die, die, die!¡±

    The burning rage in Chen Fan¡¯s chest was unstoppable. They had tried to capture Chen Zhengqing to threaten him, igniting his fury. He struck out like a madman.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Puncturing noises rang out one after another, marking the death of numerous Core Formation realm experts.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan appeared above Nangong Tong and mmed down his spear. The attack produced a loud boom, and the space now seemingly teetered on the edge of breaking apart.

    ¡°Nangong Tong, die for me!¡±

    An unparalleled, berserk force blossomed. A look of panic appeared on Nangong Tong¡¯s face.

    He revolved his cultivation to the limit, putting upyer uponyer of defense. Even so, his defense was like paper, instantly torn apart.

    The unstoppable attack struck Nangong Tong. Cracking noises rang out as his bones broke one by one. He let out a miserable scream and crashed like a cannonball, forming a huge pit. He twitched, spewing blood. His aura was greatly weakened, like a dying dog.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan arrived before Nangong Ling and stabbed with his spear. Nangong Ling looked horrified and kept falling back.

    However, his speed was simplyughable in front of Chen Fan. The iron spear pierced his dantian in a sh, and a force erupted as his golden core blew up. The attack had crippled his cultivation. His energies rapidly declined, aging him in an instant into an old man with white hair, falling from the sky.

    ¡°Father!¡± Nangong Qingshuang let out a heart-wrenching scream, seeing Nangong Ling¡¯s cultivation crippled and his body deteriorating rapidly.

    When Nangong Xuan saw Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong severely wounded, one with broken bones and tendons while the other had his cultivation crippled, a wave of sadness rose from him. He charged toward Chen Fan like a madman, a wave of destructive energy erupting from him.

    ¡°Ah, you little beast, you¡¯ll die a horrible death! I¡¯ll take you down with me!¡±

    ¡°Old coot, you want to bring me down with you? Are you even worthy? You brought all of this upon yourself!¡±

    Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t show mercy. He had given Nangong Xuan a choice, but thetter had chosen the wrong path. Now, he had to pay the price.

    He swept his spear and a terrifying force entered Nangong Xuan and wreaked havoc inside. Consequently, he couldn¡¯t even self-destruct. Bone-snapping noises rang out, and Nangong Xuan flew back before crashing onto the ground.

    ¡°Run, quickly run!¡±

    Chen Fan scared some Core Formation realm experts out of their wits. They quickly broke away from the battlefield, fleeing with all their strength. He ignored them. The irrelevant ones could run, but the main target had to stay: Qin Wudi.

    ¡°Die, Qin Wudi!¡±

    Chen Fan had already killed most of the Qin n¡¯s Core Formation realm experts, leaving only a couple who were scurrying away in fear.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    With another spear strike, Qin Wudi received another severe injury and was sent flying, crashing through many of the Qin n¡¯s buildings and pces.

    With the iron spear in hand, Chen Fan stood proudly in the air with heavenly momentum, unmatched by anyone.

    Everywhere his gaze went, the people dared not meet his gaze, lowering their heads one after another. Those who had surrounded him could barely contain themselves, almost failing to stand properly from fear.

    ¡°Today, the Qin n will be exterminated!¡± An icy voice resounded.

    Suddenly, a pce deep inside the Qin n blew up. A terrifying aura made the dome of the pce fly up.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A shocking, furious roar spread out, setting offyers of terrifying qi waves in the air.

    ¡°Who is it? Who dares to kill my nsmen!¡±

    A gray-robed silhouette appeared in the air.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    This neer was scrawny and old, like an old man in his twilight years. However, his cultivation was iparably powerful, causing people¡¯s hearts to tremble.

    The surrounding space twisted violently under his aura as if he hade from the depths of space-time.

    Yang Rong and Su Yihai¡¯s expressions immediately changed drastically. They eximed in shock, ¡°Qin Pokong!¡±

 Chapter 469 - Killed with One Spear

    <h4>Chapter 469 - Killed with One Spear</h4>

    ¡°Qin Pokong!¡± Yang Rong and Su Yihai cried out in shock one after another.

    Among those nearby, some from the older generation recognized the gray-robed elder and horror appeared on their faces. ¡°How is this possible? It¡¯s Qin Pokong. Wasn¡¯t he the Qin n¡¯s patriarch two generations ago? He is Qin Wudi¡¯s grandfather, right? Didn¡¯t he die long ago?¡±

    ¡°Old ancestor, the old ancestor has shown up!¡±

    ¡°Old Ancestor, please save our Qin n, I beg you!¡±

    ¡°Old Ancestor, our Qin n is facing annihtion. Please save us from this predicament!¡±

    Immediately, the Qin n members knelt one after another, kowtowing non-stop to Qin Pokong, their voices sorrowful.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Qin Pokong grabbed at the air, pulling Qin Wudi out of the rubble. Seeing how miserable he looked¡ªinjured with a weak aura¡ªQin Pokong furrowed his brow deeply.

    ¡°Grandfather...¡± Qin Wudi showed a miserable smile and spoke with slow, deliberate pauses. ¡°This grandson... is useless. I let our enemy ughter our people right in... our home. It¡¯s all my fault, all my fault...¡±

    ¡°It is indeed your fault. Our great Qin n is reduced to this state by a brat still wet behind his ears. You¡¯ve failed too badly as the patriarch. I¡¯m very disappointed in you!¡±

    Looking at the ruined Qin n mansion as well as the corpses of the numerous Qin n experts, a raging me brewed in his chest, about to explode and shock the earth and incinerate the heavens.

    When had the Qin n ever faced such devastation?

    It had always been their n wiping out other ns; now, the grand Qin n had suffered heavy casualties. They now only had five to six Core Formation realm experts. This wasn¡¯t something like a small cut to their foundations¡ªChen Fan had severely damaged it.

    ¡°You little beast, how dare you!¡± Qin Pokong''s gaze was icy cold. An overwhelming aura enveloped him.

    Chen Fan looked at Qin Pokong, indifferent to his aura suppression. He was only at the eighth level and wasn¡¯t even as strong as the Blood Corpse Demon King, so Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid.

    ¡°If I wasn¡¯t bold, could I have wiped out your Qin n?¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Qin Pokongughed out of extreme anger. His voice was cold, filled with killing intent, as he said, ¡°Alright, alright, you detestable little beast. Our Qin n has never suffered such a huge loss since its establishment. Even if you died ten thousand deaths, it still wouldn¡¯t make up for it. Not only you but your family and your n¡ªI¡¯ll thoroughly wipe out your nine generations!¡±

    Shocking killing intent erupted from Qin Pokong, making anyone who felt it tremble in fear.

    ¡°How powerful. It¡¯s too powerful! What¡¯s Qin Pokong¡¯s cultivation level?¡±

    ¡°He was at the seventh level sixty years ago, some rumors say. Judging by his aura now, he seems to have surpassed Qin Wudi. He should be at the eighth level now.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, eighth-level Core Formation realm? They truly deserve the title of the number one great n of the imperial city. To have such a powerful figure overseeing them... But I wonder who¡¯s stronger: him or Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°That goes without saying, it¡¯s definitely Qin Pokong! After sixty years in seclusion, his cultivation depth might be close to the ninth level.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Hearing what Qin Pokong said, Chen Fanughed out loud, hisughter shaking the skies. ¡°Old coot, with your mere eighth-level cultivation? It¡¯s not that I¡¯m looking down on you, but even if you advanced to the ninth level right now, wanting to wipe out my nine generations is nothing but a pipe dream!¡±

    ¡°You probably think that being at the eighth level makes you invincible. I will let you in on a little truth. I have not only fought someone at the eighth level, but I have also killed one.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words immediately set off a huge wave in the crowd, and they began murmuring among themselves.

    ¡°Is that for real?¡±

    ¡°Did he just say he has killed an eighth-level expert?!¡±

    ¡°Perhaps he really is strong enough for that. After all, even an army of fifty Core Formation realm experts couldn¡¯t kill him...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Qin Pokong didn¡¯t believe Chen Fan one bit, though.

    ¡°You sharp-tongued little beast, you can¡¯t even imagine the strength of an expert at the eighth level. To have advanced to the seventh level at such a young age... I concede that you are a genius. Unfortunately, you made a huge mistake by killing my people. Your death¡ªthe death of a genius¡ªis now set in stone!¡±

    Being at the eighth level, he knew his strength well. A seventh-level expert was like a child in front of him, not even worth mentioning.

    ¡°Cut the crap, old coot. Come here and ept your death!¡± Chen Fan said abruptly, pointing his iron spear at him.

    Immense anger appeared on Qin Pokong¡¯s face. His aura instantly blew up, setting off a category twenty hurricane in space. Whirring noises rang out, sweeping heaven and earth.

    ¡°You little beast, I¡¯ll wipe out your nine generations after killing you! That¡¯s the price you have to pay!¡±

    Qin Pokong appeared in front of Chen Fan in a sh, as if teleporting.

    His withered palm struck out. The terrifying force formed several mountains, pressing down and annihting the ages.

    ¡°Mountain Suppressing Palm!¡±

    This was a mid-earth tier martial skill, and he had alreadyprehended the intent of mountains. His palm strike was incredibly solid and powerful, like a mountain itself.

    A terrifying force descended,pressing the air around Chen Fan until it was as dense as steel, restraining him with immense pressure.

    Chen Fan showed no sign of panic. A faint, cold smile appeared on his face.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, old coot, two or three months ago, I would have to resort to evading this attack, but now...¡±

    Chen Fan jolted and the mountain force field shattered, unable to restrain him. Qin Pokong was not qualified to restrain him.

    Let alone Qin Pokong, even a ninth-level expert could not do it.

    ¡°You think you can take me down with your strength? Allow me to show you what real strength looks like.

    ¡°I will show you my true strength. One attack. That¡¯s all I need to kill an old coot like you!¡±

    Chen Fan moved. A terrifying aura was awakened inside him.

    An otherworldly space-time appeared at his back. Ancient giant elephants came galloping from within, trampling space-time, unleashing tremendous strength.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡± Chen Fan thrust his spear violently, shocking heaven and earth, leaving no ghosts or gods behind!

    This spearbined the strength of ten thousand elephants with the Heaven Piercing Thrust, using power perfectly without any waste.

    The heavy mountain pressing down on him crumbled and fell apart, torn in half by the terrifying force like a piece of paper and dissipating into nothingness.

    A terrifying force descended, restraining Qin Pokong.

    A look of horror appeared on his aged face. Then, he heard the spear tip piercing him.

    He clearly sensed a terrifying force rushing into him, wreaking havoc inside. His organs, his dantian, and his golden core were all crushed to bits; soon, his consciousness slipped into infinite darkness.

 Chapter 470 - Dongfang Yu

    <h4>Chapter 470 - Dongfang Yu</h4>

    Heaven and earth fell silent.

    Everyone watched in stunned disbelief. Chen Fan had killed Qin Pokong with one attack, fulfilling his promise.

    Minds were frozen, and everyone stood in a daze, dumbfounded, feeling their souls tremble.

    The Qin n¡¯s old ancestor¡ªa Core Formation realm expert at the eighth level¡ªhad died not long after taking the stage. It had simply stunned everyone.

    The Qin n members were especially stunned.

    When Qin Pokong emerged from seclusion, cruel smiles had appeared on their faces. They had envisioned Chen Fan being tortured and killed, followed by the eradication of his n.

    But in the next instant, Chen Fan''s spear threw them into an abyss of despair.

    Everyone was petrified.

    A mournful voice broke the silence.

    ¡°No!¡±

    The severely injured Qin Wudi had finally returned to his senses. Seeing Qin Pokong impaled on Chen Fan''s spear, he let out another mournful cry that shook heaven and earth.

    Qin Pokong had been the Qin n¡¯s stabilizing force, and now that force had copsed.

    One could easily imagine the Qin n¡¯s fate going forward.

    Was the Qin n, which had stood in the Great Chu Empire¡¯s imperial city for thousands of years, about to fall under Qin Wudi''s leadership? Could Chen Fan, alone, bring about their end?

    Qin Wudi felt a chill deep in his bones. He was trembling all over.

    ¡°Old Ancestor!¡±

    ¡°How could this happen? The old ancestor is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Impossible. This isn¡¯t real, none of this is real. How could the old ancestor be defeated?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Qin n members snapped back to reality one after another, unable to ept that Qin Pokong died with one strike. Their faces were twisted, looking like lunatics and howling like wild beasts.

    ¡°Old ancestor...¡±

    Chen Fan had no mercy for the Qin n. He nced at Qin Wudi and the others, then, with a twist of his palm, sent a burst of energy that made Qin Pokong¡¯s corpse explode, still impaled on his spear.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Qin Wudi becamepletely mad upon witnessing this. Not only had Chen Fan killed Qin Pokong, but he had also obliterated his body.

    The crowd murmured among themselves. Seeing the imminent copse of the Qin n, they felt little pity. On the contrary, many were gloating over their misfortune.

    ¡°It really is like a dream. He said he would kill Qin Pokong in one attack, and he did. Heavens, that¡¯s the eighth level of the Core Formation realm, not the Yuanfu realm!¡±

    ¡°Genius? No, Chen Fan is more like a cultivation monster. Someone at the seventh level killing someone at the eighth with just one strike... A monstrous genius surpassing ranks to kill others. That¡¯s what he is.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s over. The Qin n is done for. Who can stop Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying might?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, the Qin n has been acting tyrannically for over a thousand years. Now that their experts are dying and their n has fallen into ruin overnight, they can me no one but themselves. Would this have happened if they hadn¡¯t hunted Chen Zhengqing? Revenge is indeed a dish best served cold."

    ¡°If you ask me, the Qin n is not worth pitying, but the Nangong n is. In a way, Chen Fan is also a member of the Nangong n, but Nangong Xuan chose to align with the Qin n. With the Qin n facing annihtion, I am sure their fate won¡¯t be any better."

    ¡°I know, right? Nangong Xuan is old and shortsighted. He pushed a monstrous genius like Chen Fan away. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯s beating himself up in regret by now.¡±

    ¡°Well, regretting it now wouldn¡¯t solve anything. Chen Fan gave him a choice, and he picked the wrong one."

    ¡°Say, do you guys think the royal family will step in? Qin Wudi¡¯s wife has royal ties, no? She¡¯s that guy¡¯s half-sister. They wouldn¡¯t stand by as their brother-inw gets killed, right?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? In my opinion, the chances of the royal family making a move aren¡¯t high! If they were going to, they would have done so by now. They¡¯re probably cautious because of the Spring Autumn Sect."

    ¡°You have a point...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many were happy because they were fed up with the tyranny of the Qin n¡¯s descendants. Now that they were facing destruction, the public even wanted to p and cheer. Who would feel any sympathy for them?

    ¡°How could this happen? The Qin n is finished, and so is our Nangong n. Grand Elder made a terrible mistake!¡±

    The Nangong n¡¯s people looked as if they were in mourning. Their n could have been the next Qin n, but Nangong Xuan¡¯s choice shattered those dreams. Now, they were likely to fall into a deep abyss as a result.

    Nangong Xuan¡¯s aged face looked ashen and defeated when he heard the murmuring.

    Was he wrong?

    Logically, his choice was not wrong. Everything he did was for the sake of the Nangong n.

    The problem was Chen Fan¡¯s logic-defying strength. Even fifty Core Formation realm experts working together couldn¡¯t bring down that monster. He killed them like he was mowing hiswn.

    Even Qin Pokong¡ªan expert at the eighth level who had spent sixty years in seclusion¡ªdied from a single attack.

    His only mistake was underestimating Chen Fan¡¯s strength.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t care less about Nangong Xuan¡¯splicated feelings. He indifferently looked at the disheveled Qin Wudi, who seemed like a lunatic.

    That man separated him and his mother from birth, shattered his father''s primeval vessel, and kept his mother under house arrest for twenty years.

    Everyone else could be forgiven, but Qin Wudi alone was unforgivable.

    Stepping on air, Chen Fan walked toward Qin Wudi.

    ¡°Do you have to say, Qin Wudi? Back then, you used your status to issue a kill order on my father. You are why my father¡¯s cultivation regressed and my mother had to spend twenty years under house arrest. It¡¯s time for you to pay this debt.¡±

    His cold voice entered Qin Wudi¡¯s ears. Thetter raised his head slightly, then revealed a smile full of hatred and said, ¡°I was wrong! I was terribly wrong...¡±

    <i>Hmm?</i>

    Many people were stunned.

    Was Qin Wudi repenting and begging Chen Fan for mercy?¡±

    ¡°I was so wrong. I should have taken action personally back then. Otherwise, my Qin n wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this today, and I, Qin Wudi, wouldn¡¯t be in this situation!¡±

    His voice at the very end sounded iparably mournful.

    Yes, Qin Wudi was regretful. But he didn¡¯t regret issuing a kill order on Chen Zhengqing. He regretted not personally killing Chen Zhengqing and the newborn Chen Fan, which had led to this tragic end.

    ¡°Are you done? If so, die.¡±

    There wasn¡¯t the slightest fluctuation in Chen Fan¡¯s voice. It was cold and merciless.

    Just as he was about to deal the finishing blow, a swishing noise broke the air. A figure appeared between him and Qin Wudi.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered, then shot out an icy light.

    ¡°Dongfang Yu, you¡¯re going to stand in my way?¡±

 Chapter 471 - Thunder Wielding Divine Blade

    <h4>Chapter 471 - Thunder Wielding Divine de</h4>

    Chen Fan looked at the person standing in his way. A cold light flickered in his eyes as he said in an icy tone, ¡°Dongfang Yu, you¡¯re going to stand in my way?¡±

    As Chen Fan''s status rose within the Spring Autumn Sect, his knowledge naturally expanded as well.

    Dongfang Yu was the number one holy disciple of the de Thunder Mountain, with eighth-level Core Formation realm cultivation. He was ranked eighth on the Great Chu Empire¡¯s Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, above Duan Jingtian.

    Dongfang Yu''s brow furrowed slightly at Chen Fan¡¯s words, which were filled with icy killing intent.

    Honestly, he didn¡¯t want to get involved in the turbulent conflict between the two ns.

    However, Qin Wudi was once a disciple of the de Thunder Mountain, and they had maintained a close rtionship. Now that Chen Fan wanted to kill Qin Wudi, he feltpelled to intervene.

    ¡°Chen Fan, it¡¯s wise to show mercy whenever possible. You¡¯ve already killed too many people today. Nearly all the Qin n¡¯s experts have fallen by your hand. Aren¡¯t you afraid of the bad karma that wille frommitting so many murders?¡± Dongfang Yu said.

    Killing disrupted the harmony of heaven, especially for martial artists like them. It would surely bring about greater tribtions on their martial path in the future.

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Chen Fanughed out loud before he replied contemptuously, ¡°Spare others whenever possible, you say? Too bad, I¡¯ve only heard that if you don¡¯t remove the roots, the grass will grow again with the spring breeze.

    ¡°Move aside, Dongfang Yu. You are strong but not strong enough to stop me. No one, including you, can stop me from killing him. I will kill you as well if you don¡¯t move out of the way!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying killing intent burst out from Chen Fan, shrouding heaven and earth. Those who felt it recoiled, sensing that Chen Fan was a killing god from hell, ready to ughter everyone.

    Facing the boundless killing intent surging from Chen Fan, Dongfang Yu¡¯s irises shrank violently. However, Chen Fan¡¯s words had angered him.

    Ranked eighth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, Dongfang Yu felt Chen Fan was treating him as a weakling he could kill at will. Chen Fan was tantly disregarding him¡ªthe number one holy disciple of de Thunder Mountain.

    ¡°Insolence!¡± Dongfang Yu shouted, looking furious. He said coldly, ¡°Not even Duan Jingtian is qualified to speak to me like that! Let it be known, I¡¯m protecting Qin Wudi!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The crowd felt as if a thunderp had exploded in their minds, making their scalps tingle.

    Dongfang Yu would fight Chen Fan?

    They had heard of Dongfang Yu before; he was a fearsome figure. Although he was also at the eighth level, not even ten Qin Pokongbined would be a match for Dongfang Yu.

    Chen Fan said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯m not looking down on you, Dongfang Yu. Although Duan Jingtian is ranked lower than you, you¡¯re not even close to his level. Do you really think the leaderboard urately reflects true strength?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words made Dongfang Yu flush with anger, waves of icy killing intent surging from him.

    ¡°How arrogant. Since that¡¯s the case, allow me to experience your true strength today!¡± Dongfang Yu said icily.

    Chen Fan answered coldly, ¡°Since you want to die, I will oblige. You must think being eighth on the leaderboard makes you something, huh? Fine, I shall cut down a leaderboard expert today to establish my name!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura surged, covering heaven and earth.

    ¡°Shameless boasting!¡± Dongfang Yu was truly enraged by Chen Fan¡¯s words.

    Dongfang Yu was revered and feared wherever he went. No one dared to disrespect him.

    But today, Chen Fan insulted him repeatedly in front of countless people. He could no longer hold back.

    His terrifying cultivation erupted. Lightning shed and thunder rumbled around him.

    He practiced a lightning-attributed cultivation technique, which boasted immense offensive power. True primeval rushed out from his head, reaching the skies.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sky changed in an instant. Dark clouds gathered, apanied by lightning and thunder.

    A ferocious look appeared on Dongfang Yu¡¯s face. Today, he would publicly take down Chen Fan to prove his strength!

    After all, it was Chen Fan who provoked and insulted him repeatedly. Even the Spring Autumn Sect couldn''t object to this.

    With a de in his right hand and his left hand forming a seal, he chanted, ¡°Profound ksetra of the nine heavens, transform into divine thunder. Brilliant heavenly might, guided by my de!¡±

    All of a sudden, heaven and earth changed colors.

    A gigantic ck vortex appeared, spinning rapidly in the sky.

    Lightning shed and the wind howled.

    Deep within the clouds, countless lightning shes rapidly converged. The sound of thunder rumbling roared continuously in the sky. A silver-colored lightning dragon suddenly descended and struck Dongfang Yu¡¯s de.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Dongfang Yu shouted, raising his de high up. Another silver-colored lightning dragon fell from the sky, connecting with his de.

    This scene seemed to have be eternal, forever engraved in everyone¡¯s mind.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    He shed down violently, and the de light transformed into a silver lightning dragon, wrapped in brilliant heavenly might. It darted toward Chen Fan, aiming to annihte all evil.

    The attack stunned the world, making ghosts and gods weep. Dongfang Yu had unleashed a merciless, absolute killing move.

    Chen Fan¡¯s muscles tightened under the attack¡¯s might, sensing a terrifying power that shook his soul.

    The nearby crowd murmured in shock, their eyes flickering.

    ¡°What a terrifying attack. This is de Thunder Mountain¡¯s restricted martial art¡ªThunder Wielding Divine de. It isn¡¯t passed down to ordinary disciples. It contains boundless power. My god, it¡¯s my first time seeing it. It lives up to its name, drawing the divine thunder of the nine heavens, connecting heaven and earth!¡±

    ¡°It can reduce even a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain to rubble, let alone a person. As expected of the number one holy disciple of the de Thunder Mountain. He really deserves to be ranked eighth with that strength.¡±

    ¡°I wonder how Chen Fan will respond to this attack?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The attack was so strong that now even the opponent¡¯s ghost would be left behind.

    ¡°So, this is the Thunder Wielding Divine de? Drawing upon heavenly lightning to achieve a peak power with your de art.... It surely deserves its reputation. No wonder de Thunder Mountain¡¯s de cultivators draw upon lightning daily to temper their des. Otherwise, one couldn¡¯t withstand the profound lightning of the nine heavens.¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, sensing immense pressure. However, he did not cower under this pressure. Instead, his blood was boiling.

    Dongfang Yu¡¯s strength was truly powerful.

    The difference between the strength of Qin Pokong and Dongfang Yu was like heaven and earth.

 Chapter 472 - Facing His Wrath

    <h4>Chapter 472 - Facing His Wrath</h4>

    In the throne room of the Great Chu Empire¡¯s imperial pce, a beautiful woman knelt on the ground, pleading mournfully.

    ¡°Imperial Brother, I¡¯m begging you, please save Wudi...¡± (Note: Is it Imperial Brother or Royal Brother? I tried googling but can''t find anything useful.)

    The woman, graceful and noble, was the Qin n¡¯s matriarch and Qin Wudi¡¯s wife¡ªChu Lianyi. She also had another identity: she was the half-sister of the current emperor, Chu Jingcai, from a different mother.

    Originally, Qin Wudi was set to marry Nangong Yue, creating an alliance with the Nangong n. However, this n fell through due to Chen Zhengqing, resulting in the Qin n joining the royal family by marriage instead.

    Chu Jingcai sat on his throne, looking at Chu Lianyi with aplicated gaze. He was already aware of the events at the Qin n and understood their dire situation.

    Logically, since the royal family was allied with the Qin n by marriage, it was their duty to offer assistance in times of crisis.

    However, the other party involved was Chen Fan, and even the royal family hesitated to fight him.

    While the royal family was the ruler of the Great Chu Empire, the sects weren¡¯t under their jurisdiction.

    Chen Fan was a holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, and challenging him would mean offending this powerful sect.

    As the ruler of the Great Chu Empire, Chu Jingcai was well aware of theplex power dynamics and the various forces at y.

    Information on Chen Fan had made its way to his desk long ago.

    The internal struggles within the Spring Autumn Sect were intense, dividing it into three major factions.

    Before Chen Fan¡¯s rise to prominence, the high elder¡¯s faction was increasingly suppressed by Duan Jingtian.

    However, Chen Fan''s exceptional talent allowed him to gain power and resist Duan Jingtian. Wei Buyu took him in as his personal disciple, seeing him as the best candidate to fight against Duan Jingtian.

    If Chu Jingcai dared to make a move against Chen Fan, Wei Buyu, the high elder, and others from that faction would kill their way into the imperial pce.

    And why should they worry about some high elder?

    Because that high elder was a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, standing at the apex of the Great Chu Empire. He wasn¡¯t someone the royal family could easily confront.

    Noticing Chu Jingcai''sck of reaction, Chu Lianyi¡¯s voice became even more mournful.

    ¡°Imperial Brother...

    ¡°Imperial Brother, can you really bear to watch Wudi and Jian¡¯er get killed? If anything were to happen to them, then I... I don¡¯t want to live either!¡±

    Chu Jingcai sighed and said, ¡°Get up, Lianyi. I know what happened to the Qin n, but this matter is tooplicated. It involves the Spring Autumn Sect. Chen Fan¡¯s status is... <i>haaa</i>, is very extraordinary. He has a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse backing him. I hope you can understand!¡±

    ¡°I understand, I understand! I¡¯m not asking for you to avenge the Qin n. All I ask is for you to save Wudi. He¡¯s my husband and Jian¡¯er¡¯s father...¡±

    Chu Lianyi kowtowed, her head hitting the ground hard.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, fine. Alright, I¡¯ll step in to protect Qin Wudi this one time, but I can¡¯t guarantee the results. You need to be mentally prepared,¡± Chu Jingcai said, rubbing his forehead.

    ¡°Thank you, Imperial Brother! Thank you!¡± Chu Lianyi thanked him profusely.

    ......

    Above the Qin n mansion, lightning shed and thunder roared. A lightning dragon descended, shaking the heavens and the earth.

    Dongfang Yu swung his de. The de light transformed into a lightning dragon, destroying everything in its path and aiming to devour Chen Fan.

    The sky was filled with a terrifying, destructive aura, striking fear into the onlookers.

    However, excitement gleamed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He would face Duan Jingtian in a life-and-death battle soon. Fighting Dongfang Yu would help him understand the strength of someone ranked in the top ten of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard and mentally prepare himself.

    ¡°Good timing. Break, break, break!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura rushed to the sky. His golden core power erupted wildly, pushing his cultivation to its limit. Transparent waves of qi radiated from him, creating massive ripples in space.

    He also activated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. The power of ten thousand elephants burst forth, conjuring an otherworldly space-time behind him. Ancient giant elephants lumbered over, crossing the long river of space and time to empower Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s arm bulged with steel tendons and iron bones, his strength surging like a volcanic eruption. With thunderous force, he struck out violently three times in quick session.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The terrifying strength roared in the air. The three spear lights nearly merged as one and violently collided with the oing earth-shaking de light.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An earth-shaking explosion rang out. A terrifying storm erupted and spread out, sweeping across heaven and earth. The manors, buildings, and decorative gardens in the Qin n mansion were all swept up, pulled into the air and torn to shreds.

    <i>Ugh, ugh, ugh...</i>

    The Qin n members in the mansion below bled from their seven orifices, struggling to endure the aftermath of the sh. A wave of people fell to the ground, their miserable screams echoing endlessly.

    <i>Rumble...</i>

    The sh continued, with deafening noises and horrifying shockwaves sweeping the area. It was like a scene from an apocalypse.

    Chen Fan fell back repeatedly. His hand with the spear was sore and numb; he felt like it was about to break. A terrifying force,bined with the devastating power of heavenly lightning, surged through him, ravaging wildly.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, devour for me!¡± Chen Fan quickly revolved around the Heaven Seizing Furnace, suppressing and refining the heavenly lightning wreaking havoc inside him.

    On the other side, Dongfang Yu also flew out back from the storm, looking disheveled with his hair in disarray. He looked at Chen Fan with a dark gaze, shocked internally.

    He knew Chen Fan was strong. After all, he had killed Qin Pokong, a seventh-level expert, with one attack. Although Qin Pokong didn¡¯t amount to much in his eyes, it was enough to show Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming strength.

    Therefore, he hadn¡¯t taken Chen Fan seriously, thinking he would not be a match for him.

    However, Dongfang Yu still executed the Thunder Wielding Divine de, drawing upon the power of the nine heavens¡¯ profound lightning to greatly amplify the might of his de art. That could have severely injured an eighth-level expert, if not killed them outright. Yet, Chen Fan had actually broken through it.

    Moreover, the might of Chen Fan¡¯s attack had made him feel like a tiny boat in the vast sea, in danger of being swallowed by fierce winds and huge waves at any time. His qi and blood churned uncontrobly.

    Wielding the iron spear, Chen Fan looked at the gloomy Dongfang Yu sharply. An icy voice resounded in space as he said, ¡°Not bad, as expected of the de Thunder Mountain¡¯s backbone and ultimate martial art, Thunder Wielding Divine de. It truly is powerful. Unfortunately, you still can¡¯t shake me with your strength. Now, have you thought about how you will face my wrath?¡±

    A terrifying aura erupted from Chen Fan, sweeping through heaven and earth. Sensing this aura, Dongfang Yu¡¯s irises shrank violently.

    Chen Fan was unharmed under his Thunder Wielding Divine de!

    How was that possible?

    Even if Chen Fan managed to withstand his Thunder Wielding Divine de, the terrifying power of heavenly lightning should have rushed inside him, greatly affecting him.

    However, judging by Chen Fan¡¯s aura, it waspletely ineffective.

    This was not a pretense; he truly was unaffected.

 Chapter 473 - Dongfang Yu Leaving in Defeat

    <h4>Chapter 473 - Dongfang Yu Leaving in Defeat</h4>

    ¡°D-did he...? He survived! Chen Fan withstood Dongfang Yu¡¯s Thunder Wielding Divine de. It¡¯s unbelievable! That is the de Thunder Mountain¡¯s restricted martial art!¡±

    ¡°And I am sure Dongfang Yu didn¡¯t hold back. That attack could have blown away even a thousand-strong army, leaving no ghosts or gods behind. Damn, it could have killed even Qin Pokong.¡±

    ¡°Even Dongfang Yu must be shocked that his attack failed to injure Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°This is a battle between two tigers. Dongfang Yu and Chen Fan are in a league of their own, and a fierce battle between them is inevitable.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd''s eyes flickered with intense shock. They had expected Chen Fan to be injured, if not defeated, by Dongfang Yu¡¯s attack.

    After all, the Thunder Wielding Divine de harnessed the profound lightning of the nine heavens, making it unimaginably powerful.

    But against all expectations, Chen Fan neither retreated nor was injured. His aura majestic, he was about tounch a counterattack against Dongfang Yu.

    Upon hearing what Chen Fan said, Dongfang Yu¡¯s face twisted in anger.

    However, Chen Fan was indifferent to Dongfang Yu¡¯s anger. To him, anyone standing in his way was an enemy. He disappeared and appeared above Dongfang Yu with a swoosh.

    He thrust his spear down with enough strength to make a star crumble.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space rumbled. Dongfang Yu felt like a star was crashing down on him, aiming to destroy him.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    He was a great expert ranked within the top ten of the leaderboard, so the pressure from the attack disappeared as soon as he channeled his cultivation. Layers of de light blossomed and flickered on his weapon and he shed out at once.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s spear shattered the de light and continued down.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Dongfang Yu disappeared from his spot, reappearing upside down in mid-air. With a wave of his arm, a thunderous de rumbled and shed violently, aiming at Chen Fan¡¯s face with lightning speed.

    Chen Fan raised his iron spear to meet the attack. With a boom and a crack, he shattered the de light.

    ¡°Prairie Fire Hundred Strikes!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s arm danced wildly, conjuring a swarm of meteors that streaked across the sky. They transformed into a barrage of spear thrusts, converging on Dongfang Yu, leaving him no room to escape.

    Dongfang Yu¡¯s irises shrank violently, holding his de tighter.

    Only now, after shing with Chen Fan, did he realize Chen Fan¡¯s true power. Despite his superiority in cultivation level, Chen Fan''sbat strength was equally formidable.

    ¡°Fire Beacon Camp Link!¡± Dongfang Yu¡¯s arm moved with equal ferocity, sending numerous sharp de lights to meet Chen Fan¡¯s spear barrage, each strike heavy with oppressive power.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Explosions rang out non-stop like firecrackers were set off.

    Chen Fan didn''t stand idle. His true primeval surged as he thrust his left hand toward Dongfang Yu.

    ¡°Northern Star Reaper Hand!¡±

    ¡°Lightning shes Thunderstorm!¡±

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand arrived with a suppressive force, making Dongfang Yu feel a strong sense of crisis.

    He quickly shed horizontally, creating a terrifying streak of light that sliced through the iing meteors. Simultaneously, he raised his de, unleashing a torrent of de qi like a thunderstorm. The lightning-like strikes smashed into the Northern Star Reaper Hand, puncturing it with holes.

    Admittedly, Dongfang Yu was truly incredibly strong and not an easy opponent.

    Chen Fan quickly closed in, thrusting his iron spear violently with his right hand while his left hand formed a seal. Boundless golden light erupted from his palm, forming a massive golden hand.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Great Brahma Sacred Palm, suppress it!¡±

    Dongfang Yu¡¯s expression became extremely stern. He finally realized just how powerful and troublesome Chen Fan was, finding himself in a disadvantageous position. He pushed his cultivation to the limit.

    The silhouette of the god of thunder manifested behind him, holding a thunder pool. Thunderous de lights shot out from it, shing in all directions.

    ¡°Wind Thunder Fury!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying collision broke out. An endless storm swept through the air. Its terrifying vibrations spread tens of kilometers away.

    Suddenly, an iparably chilling voice rang out.

    ¡°It¡¯s over! Heaven Piercing Thrust!¡±

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The ravaging storm was suddenly confined. A supremely terrifying force erupted, shaking the space. Even the storm seemed to submit to this overwhelming power.

    An ear-piercing sound of collision rang out.

    <i>ng!</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    A figure flew out from the storm, crashing through the air and causing a series of explosions. Blood spewed out along the way¡ªit was Dongfang Yu.

    Dongfang Yu steadied himself with much difficulty after being thrown back five kilometers. Looking at Chen Fan from afar, he could hardly contain his shock. He said hoarsely, ¡°You...¡±

    ¡°Scram!¡± Chen Fan shouted. A terrifying soundwave spread out, causing countless people to tremble in fear.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t leave now, you will die!¡± His cold voice echoed. Dongfang Yu¡¯s face turned extremely grim.

    Dongfang Yu gave Chen Fan a long, hard look. After uttering a menacing, ¡°just you wait,¡± he transformed into a streak of light and vanished into the horizon.

    He had lost!

    The grand number one holy disciple of the de Thunder Mountain, ranked eighth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, had lost to someone at the seventh level. Not only that, he was publicly humiliated and told to leave.

    Despite his fury, there was nothing Dongfang Yu could do. Being the weaker one, he had no choice but to endure the humiliation. He dared not stay, knowing Chen Fan would indeed kill him.

    Chen Fan curled his lips, dismissing Dongfang Yu¡¯s threat. He walked over to Qin Wudi.

    ¡°He lost. Even Dongfang Yu was defeated. Chen Fan is truly terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Now, who can stop Chen Fan from killing Qin Wudi?¡±

    ¡°The Qin n is doomed...¡±

    ¡°This fight... The imperial city will be shaken, and the entire Great Chu Empire will be rocked.¡±

    The crowd was iparably shocked.

    Seeing Chen Fan approaching step by step, Qin Wudi trembled.

    If even Dongfang Yu had been defeated and forced to flee, who dared to stand in Chen Fan¡¯s way?

    ¡°Now, who can save you?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice fell into Qin Wudi¡¯s ears, sounding incredibly ironic.

    Suddenly, a voice resounded.

    ¡°Chen Fan, will you show me some face and spare his life!¡±

    A figure wearing a crown sped through the air from the royal pce, emanating a powerful aura and the prestige of an emperor.

 Chapter 474 - No Escape from Punishment

    <h4>Chapter 474 - No Escape from Punishment</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan, will you show me some face and spare his life!¡±

    The Great Chu Empire¡¯s emperor, Chu JIngcai, had appeared. The crowd was momentarily stunned by his appearance before erupting into amotion.

    ¡°It¡¯s Lord Chu; he¡¯s here.¡±

    The royalty did not intervene when the Qin n members were being ughtered, but Chu Jingcai showed up when Chen Fan was about to execute Qin Wudi. He asked Chen Fan to show him some face and spare Qin Wudi.

    However, would Chen Fan honor this request?

    Chen Fan looked up at Chu Jingcai, narrowing his gaze.

    ¡°Lord Chu?¡±

    Unfamiliar with the ties between the Qin n and the royal family, he replied coolly, ¡°Are you also going to stop me from killing Qin Wudi? As the emperor of the Great Chu Empire, you must be aware of my standing in the Spring Autumn Sect. Are you prepared to be my enemy for Qin Wudi¡¯s sake?

    ¡°Let me make this clear. After I kill Duan Jingtian, I will be the next leader of the Spring Autumn Sect. Are you sure you want to cross me over Qin Wudi?¡±

    Chen Fan showed no fear of Chu Jingcai despite his imperial status. Instead, his tone carried a thick intent of threat.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know why I want to kill Qin Wudi and wipe out the Qin n. He used his status to issue a killing order and nearly killed my parents. I must avenge this; no one can stop me, not even you, Lord Chu,¡± Chen Fan said decisively, leaving no room for negotiation. ¡°I can forgive the others, but not Qin Wudi. He must die.

    ¡°You are at the ninth level, so I will have difficulty killing him if you decide to intervene. But you must consider the consequences of such an action. You could try to kill me; honestly, while I¡¯m no match for you, I can easily escape."

    The crowd was speechless at Chen Fan¡¯s bold stance against the Great Chu Empire¡¯s ruler. It was almost as if he was threatening him.

    They could understand him, though.

    Even though Lord Chu was the ruler and could control their lives, he couldn¡¯t control Chen Fan, a holy disciple of the powerful Spring Autumn Sect.

    The Spring Autumn Sect wasn¡¯t a small, second or third-rate sect, but a prominent great sect with two Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    Not even the royal family could afford to mess with them, so they had to weigh the pros and cons of offending them.

    Lord Chu did not show the slightest hint of anger at Chen Fan¡¯s words. He smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m not standing in your way, but his wife is my sister, so I have to step in and plead for him.

    ¡°I know your situation and am aware that you have the backing of a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse. I¡¯m afraid the entire Great Chu Empire¡¯s royal family will be wiped out tomorrow If I make a move against you. I¡¯m not that foolish.

    ¡°I can also understand your desire to avenge your father, but I still ask you to spare his life as a favor to me. Of course, whether you extend this courtesy or not is up to you. I¡¯ve done my part by asking.¡±

    Chu Jingcai stepped to the side and opened the way to Qin Wudi.

    He had promised Chu Lianyi to plead for Qin Wudi, but whether Chen Fan would grant this favor was up to Chen Fan.

    Chu Jingcai knew it was stupid to risk offending the powerful Spring Autumn Sect and bringing cmity upon the royal family, despite their own Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.

    The crowd was astonished by Chu Jingcai¡¯s words.

    A Divine Nascent realm powerhouse supported Chen Fan. Such experts were at the pinnacle of power in the Great Chu Empire!

    Chen Fan looked at Chu Jingcai, frowning slightly.

    If Chu Jingcai had shown a tough attitude, Chen Fan would have had no hesitation in executing Qin Wudi.

    However, Chu Jingcai had simply asked him a favor and stepped aside without any intent to sh. This left him feeling a little uncertain.

    Although the Spring Autumn Sect did not fear the royal family, its internal struggles were fierce. If he didn¡¯t show Chu Jingcai any face, the emperor might not say anything now, but he certainly wouldn¡¯t be pleased.

    After all, as the ruler of an empire, he had lowered himself greatly by asking a favor from a seventh-level Core Formation realm junior, especially in front of the public.

    After pondering for a little, Chen Fan said, ¡°Fine, since Lord Chu is pleading for him, I have to extend this courtesy. He may be spared from death, but he must still be punished. My father¡¯s primeval vessel was shattered back then, so today, I will shatter Qin Wudi¡¯s golden core as payback.¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t let Qin Wudi go without consequences; otherwise, he would lose face after speaking so harshly earlier.

    Chu Jingcai nodded and said, ¡°Many thanks.¡±

    Behind him, Qin Wudi felt a chill running all over him.

    He would rather be killed by Chen Fan than have his golden core shattered.

    To have his golden core shattered was to be trash, plummeting from heaven to hell in an instant. It truly was worse than killing him.

    ¡°Chen Fan, just kill me if you have the guts!¡± Qin Wudi roared furiously, his eyes red with rage.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°Hoho, I really don¡¯t want to kill you now. Wasting your cultivation and throwing you off from the clouds down to the deep abyss will be better than just killing you outright!¡±

    ¡°You dream on! I¡¯d rather self-destruct than let you cripple my cultivation!¡± said Qin Wudi as he prepared to detonate his golden core.

    ¡°Thinking of self-destructing in front of me? You¡¯re overestimating yourself, Qin Wudi!¡±

    With a swish, Chen Fan appeared in front of Qin Wudi as if he had teleported and sent out a palm strike.

    ¡°You wish!¡±

    Qin Wudi¡¯s face twisted, still trying to struggle.

    However, how could he possibly struggle in front of Chen Fan?

    With a dull breaking sound, Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike crushed all of Qin Wudi¡¯s defenses and struck his dantian. Chen Fan¡¯s strength rushed in and wreaked havoc, shattering his golden core.

    Qin Wudi immediately let out a miserable scream. His aura rapidly declined, and he quickly aged.

    Watching this scene unfold, countless people shuddered fiercely.

    The once-powerful Qin Wudi had his golden core shattered and his cultivation crippled, falling from greatness to the depths of despair. It was like a nightmare.

    No one in the entire imperial city would have thought that the Qin n¡¯s patriarch, Qin Wudi, would one day be a cripple.

    Many felt a pang of pity for Qin Wudi.

    As a martial artist, losing one''s cultivation was worse than death. It was a fate more cruel than killing.

    A high and mighty expert who had control over the life and death of others became a weakling, subject to bullying and humiliation overnight. This stark contrast could break a person¡¯s mind and drive them mad.

    There was no more effective way to destroy someone than to crush their spirit.

 Chapter 475 - Family Reunited

    <h4>Chapter 475 - Family Reunited</h4>

    Qin Jian watched as his father¡¯s golden core shattered and his aura rapidly declined. Two trails of bloody tears streamed down his cheeks.

    ¡°Father...¡± Since childhood, Qin Jian idolized his father.

    In his youth, Qin Wudi had been the number one genius of the imperial city. Following in his footsteps, Qin Jian became the city''s number one genius, earning the nickname "Little Sword God."

    Qin Wudi had once been engaged to the top beauty of the Nangong n, though the engagement fell through. Determined to follow his father''s path, Qin Jian decided to marry Nangong Qingshuang, the imperial city''s number one beauty. He seeded, and today was their wedding day.

    Qin Jian believed his life was about to reach new heights. He envisioned leading the Qin n to greater strength, breaking through to the Yuanfu realm, and advancing to the Core Formation realm to be a peak expert.

    But then Chen Fan showed up.

    More than a year ago, Chen Fan, under the alias Wang Dongfan, defeated Qin Jian at the Nangong n¡¯s Bloodlines Martial Meet, marking the greatest humiliation of Qin Jian¡¯s life.

    Chen Fan returned to the imperial city, ughtered his way through fifty Core Formation realm experts, killed his great-grandfather, Qin Pokong, in one attack, and finally shattered his father¡¯s golden core with a palm strike.

    Meanwhile, his huge wedding that drew the world¡¯s attention had turned into a joke.

    From now on, whenever people spoke of Chen Fan, they would remember today.

    Hatred!

    Overwhelming hatred!

    Hatred that drove him crazy!

    He wanted to rush up and cut down Chen Fan.

    But could he?

    He recalled how Chen Fan defeated him a year ago. The shame turned into anger, and he had tried to sneak attack Chen Fan, only to almost be killed himself. If not for Nangong Ling''s intervention, he would have been crippled or killed.

    Chen Fan had only said a few words then¡ª¡°Little Sword God? Trash!¡±

    In front of Chen Fan, Qin Jian, this so-called number one genius of the imperial city, was indeed trash.

    Chen Fan, about the same age as him, was already at the seventh level of the Core Formation realm and had invincible might. No one could stop him. Even his father would have died if Lord Chu hadn¡¯t pleaded for his case.

    If Qin Jian wasn¡¯t trash, then who was?

    As for revenge...

    Would he ever get the chance?

    It wasn¡¯t only Qin Jian. Next to him, the devastating beauty, Nangong Qingshuang, had long since lost her spirits.

    Today was supposed to be her proudest day, her wedding day.

    She was about to be Qin Jian¡¯s wife¡ªthe other half of the imperial city¡¯s top genius among the younger generation. She had already pictured herself as the future matriarch of the Qin n, looking down on everyone else.

    However, Chen Fan destroyed it all single-handedly.

    The Qin n?

    Would it even survive today?

    The wife of the imperial city¡¯s top genius?

    It was nothing more than a joke!

    And the Nangong n?

    Would it still exist?

    Would Chen Fan spare her father?

    Nangong Qingshuang looked at Qin Jian, then at Chen Fan. He stood fearlessly in the air, even in front of Lord Chu. Bitterness filled her heart.

    If...

    If only Chen Fan were the one standing beside her, how wonderful it would be!

    Thousands of thoughts ran through the minds of everyone here.

    Today¡¯s battle had showcased Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength.

    The imperial city¡¯s greatest n, the Qin n, wouldpletely fall due to its past mistakes, perhaps even fading into oblivion.

    Everyone had believed that the wedding marked the union of the Qin and the Nangong ns. They were expected to dominate the imperial city''s power structure together for the next hundred years.

    However, Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing¡®s dramatic arrival and fierce assault disrupted the wedding. The ensuing bloodbath was something that struck fear even in the hearts of Core Formation realm experts.

    The crowd saw Core Formation realm experts¡ªonce seen as god-like figures¡ªgetting ughtered like ants by Chen Fan. With one strike per kill, he cut them down like grass, shocking everyone.

    Apart from the Qin n, the other ns that had participated in hunting Chen Zhengqing would also sink into oblivion.

    The imperial city¡¯s power structure would undergo an overhaul.

    ¡°Big Brother Dongfan is so fierce!¡± said Chu Xuan¡¯er, standing among the crowd outside the Qin n mansion. He seemed different now, and a hint of fear crept into her eyes.

    Chu Feng rubbed Chu Xuan¡¯er¡¯s head, sighed, and said, ¡°Yes, his fierce and invincible might is undeniable. Core Formation realms are like ants in his eyes. Even Imperial Brother is feeling extremely apprehensive toward him...¡±

    ¡°Father, do you think... he will still see me as a friend?¡± Chu Xuan¡¯er said dispiritedly.

    Chu Feng replied, ¡°Who knows? Why don¡¯t you try looking for him in a few days? He did leave a few drops from the Fountain of Life for you when he quietly left the Nangong n. I believe he still considers you a friend.¡±

    ......

    Chu Jingcai left.

    Chen Fan did not kill Qin Wudi. Instead, he wasted Qin Wudi¡¯s cultivation. Although thetter¡¯s cultivation fell to the Qi Grandmaster realm, he at least kept his life. Chu Jingcai had fulfilled his promise to Chu Lianyi.

    Chen Fan ignored the rest of the Qin n members. His gaze shifted to Nangong Xuan, Nangong Ling, and the others.

    ¡°Say, Father, how should they be dealt with?¡± Chen Fan looked at Chen Zhengqing and asked.

    Chen Zhengqing and Nangong Yue''s affair was exposed by the members of the Sun and the Star Bloodlines. Nangong Xuan ultimately put Nangong Yue under house arrest and forbade Nangong Baxiong from helping Chen Zhengqing.

    Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing almost died in that pursuit.

    Despite everything, Chen Fan, with the Nangong n¡¯s blood in his veins, had previously given Nangong Xuan a chance to choose.

    However, Nangong Xuan had picked the Qin n once again.

    Therefore, he had no need to show mercy.

    Nangong Baxiong¡¯s expression looked incrediblyplicated, wanting to plead for mercy.

    ¡°Zhengqing, Xiaofan, could you¡ª¡±

    Chen Fan cut him off and said, ¡°Uncle, you¡¯ve already severed ties with the Nangong n. Moreover, I already gave this old coot a chance, but he chose to attack me. It¡¯s unforgivable.¡±

    Nangong Ling, Nangong Tong, and the others¡¯plexions turned ghastly white, their eyes filled with fear.

    Chen Fan was going to kill them!

    Nangong Xuan begged, ¡°Chen Fan, I was wrong. It¡¯s my fault. Could you spare the Nangong n this one time? The Nangong n¡¯s blood flows inside you, after all. Could you...¡±

    Chen Fan sneered coldly and said, ¡°Old coot, now you admit you''re wrong, but it¡¯s toote. If it weren¡¯t for my strength, how would things be today? Would you have asked the Qin n to show mercy to me and my father? No, you wouldn¡¯t! So, what right do you have to ask me to spare your life?

    ¡°I nned to let the Nangong n go if you didn¡¯t intervene. You still would have been the Nangong n¡¯s grand elder. All I want is to bring my mother home. But what about you?

    ¡°Did you ever consider the Nangong n¡¯s blood within me when you attacked me? No, you didn¡¯t! So, anything you say now is pointless.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words plunged Nangong Xuan into despair.

    Chen Zhengqing furrowed his brow slightly. After pondering for a moment, he sighed and said, ¡°Xiaofan, why don¡¯t you spare their lives? They¡¯re your mother¡¯s nsmen after all.¡±

    ¡°But...¡±

    Chen Fan did not want to let Nangong Xuan and the others off so easily. Even if he were to spare their lives, he wanted to shatter their golden core and make them experience the pain and suffering Chen Zhengqing had gone through.

    Suddenly, a voice came from afar. ¡°Xiaofan!

    ¡°Xiaofan, spare the grand elder and the others. I¡¯m begging you.¡±

    Someone flew over at great speed, looking anxious. It was none other than Nangong Yue.

 Chapter 476 - Imperial City Shaken

    <h4>Chapter 476 - Imperial City Shaken</h4>

    Nangong Yue hade.

    Just when Chen Fan was about to settle scores with Nangong Xuan, Nangong Ling, and the others, she hade, forcing Chen Fan to take a pause.

    ¡°Mother!¡±

    ¡°Yue... Yue¡¯er!¡± Chen Zhengqing became visibly agitated as Nangong Yue approached, trembling.

    It has been twenty years. He and Nangong Yue had been forcibly separated for two decades; today, he finallyid eyes on the person he had longed for day and night.

    Likewise, Nangong Yue was overwhelmed upon seeing Chen Zhengqing. Her emotions surged.

    ¡°Zhengqing...¡±

    Tears streamed down her cheeks. For twenty years, she had never ceased thinking about her husband and child.

    She met Chen Fan over a year ago when he came to the imperial city under an alias. However, that wasn¡¯t a full reunion, as Chen Zhengqing was missing.

    Now, the family of three was finally together again in the Qin n mansion.

    ¡°Yue¡¯er!¡± Chen Zhengqing moved swiftly, sweeping Nangong Yue into his embrace.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Yue¡¯er. I¡¯mte. I¡¯m useless. I made you wait for two decades...¡±

    ¡°Zhengqing, as long as you and Xiaofan are safe and sound, I''m content.¡±

    Seeing his parents embrace, Chen Fan felt his heart soften and his nose turn sour.

    For some reason, Qin Yao surfaced in his mind. She left three years ago, and he had no knowledge of her current whereabouts.

    Chen Fan clenched his fists.

    <i>Great Jin Imperial Court...</i>

    One day, he would bring Qin Yao back¡ªwithout a doubt.

    <i>Soon, Senior Sister. Just wait for me. I¡¯ll head to the Great Jin Imperial Court to find you very soon. No one can stop me. No one!</i> Chen Fan thought resolutely.

    ¡°Xiaoyue, I¡¯ve made mistakes. It¡¯s my fault, but everything I did was for the n. It¡¯s all for the n...¡± Nangong Xuan wept as he saw Nangong Yue, hoping she would plead on his behalf.

    He knew that the Nangong n¡¯s fate hinged on a single thought from Chen Fan, and only Nangong Yue could influence that.

    Nangong Yue looked at Nangong Xuan and the others with aplicated expression. She sighed, looked at Chen Fan, and said, ¡°Forget it, Xiaofan. It¡¯s all in the past. Spare the grand elder and the others this once for my sake.¡±

    ¡°Fine, I can spare this old coot, but Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong must be punished for their sins!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    The relief that had briefly crossed the faces of Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong vanished, reced by a pallor of fear.

    <i>Must be punished? </i>

    <i>Will our golden cores also be shattered? </i>

    Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong immediately looked at Nangong Yue.

    ¡°Xiaoyue, we were wrong. We¡¯ve realized our mistakes.¡±

    ¡°No need to plead for them, Mother. I won¡¯t spare them even if you ask.¡±

    Chen Fan said firmly, ¡°A year ago, these two tried to kill me. Today, they wanted to rip me into pieces. No matter what, I won¡¯t let them off easily!¡±

    Upon hearing that, Nangong Yue did not say anything.

    Since Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong had repeatedly tried to take Chen Fan¡¯s life, Nangong Yue couldn¡¯t easily forgive them either.

    ¡°No, no!¡±

    The two were inplete despair.

    Nangong Xuan wanted to intervene; ultimately, he closed his eyes

    He knew that if he were to say a word, Chen Fan might not spare him. If he were killed or had his cultivation crippled, the Nangong n would truly be finished.

    The members of the Sun and Star Bloodlines looked sorrowful as Chen Fan shattered Nangong Ling and Nangong Tong¡¯s golden cores.

    The winner is king, and the loser is a thief. Chen Fan was already showing mercy to them.

    If he hadn¡¯t been strong enough, today might have marked the death of Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing. Would Nangong Ling and the others have spared them?

    No!

    Ignoring the two broken souls, Chen Fan shifted his gaze toward the Qin n¡¯s people and said icily, ¡°Everyone from the Qin n must leave within three days. You¡¯re not allowed to bring anything with you, or you¡¯ll die!¡±

    The Qin n members trembled violently.

    Chen Fan was seizing their assets and stripping them of their status. Their once-proud identity as Qin n members would vanish, and the Chen n would take their ce as the new nobility of the imperial city.

    Even though the Chen n¡¯s foundations were weak, with Chen Fan around, the Chen n would be the undisputed number one n of the imperial city.

    That day, the entire imperial city bore witness to Chen Fan¡¯s exceptional strength. Even Lord Chu dared not force his will upon Chen Fan, instead humbly requesting a favor. Who would dare to oppose him now?

    ¡°Watching them build a tower, and watching their tower copse... I didn¡¯t see the Qin n rise, but I have seen their fall. This life is not in vain.¡±

    ¡°Who would have thought that the illustrious Qin n would fall apart today, plummeting from the clouds into the abyss overnight?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid the Qin n¡¯s troubles have only just begun. Over all these years, they bullied and suppressed numerous artists and ns. Now that they¡¯re in decline, it would be surprising if those people didn¡¯t seek revenge.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I know, right? They used to have more than twenty Core Formation realm experts, but Chen Fan killed most of them, leaving only a few old and weak ones. The Qin n haspletely copsed.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t put it that way, either. A starved camel is still bigger than a horse. They could establish a foothold in the imperial city by relying on these old and weak Core Formation realm experts, though they would fall from the top prestigious n to a third-rate one.¡±

    ¡°What a pity. The Qin n¡¯s thousand years¡¯ worth of wealth would all go to Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd sighed.

    The Qin n had lost everything, including their mansion. They had to leave within three days without taking even a single brick or tile. How cruel was that?

    Chen Fan¡¯s trophy was all their treasures and wealth. The Qin n members would probably vomit blood in frustration.

    If they could bring their fortune with them, they might still have a chance to rise again in the future with those resources.

    However, that single sentence from Chen Fan erased all possibilities of the Qin n''s resurgence.

    Even so, the Qin n could only gnash their teeth and swallow their indignity.

    Now, they had no right to speak, much less the power to resist.

    Resist?

    Disagree?

    That would be courting death!

    Chen Fan¡¯s ferocity when he ughtered their people was still deeply engraved in their minds. He wasn¡¯t merciful or soft-hearted. Resistance meant death.

    Meanwhile, the regret in Nangong Xuan¡¯s eyes grew even thicker when he heard this.

    If only he had stood on Chen Fan¡¯s side, the Nangong n could have used this opportunity to soar to the skies and have a taste of being the number one prestigious n of the imperial city.

    However, a single misstep led to a cascade of mistakes.

    The Qin n hadpletely fallen from grace, and the Nangong n that stood by its side would also decline from today onward.

    Except for the Moon Bloodline, the other bloodlines¡¯ Core Formation realm experts had all been dealt with. Chen Fan showed no mercy.

    Aside from Nangong Baxiong and the other three, the number of Core Formation realm experts still alive in the other bloodlines could be counted on one hand.

 Chapter 477 - His Name Shakes the Great Chu Empire

    <h4>Chapter 477 - His Name Shakes the Great Chu Empire</h4>

    Time flew by, and soon half a month had passed.

    The Qin n mansion, destroyed in that massive battle, now had apletely new look. What was once the glorious Qin n mansion had be the Chen n mansion.

    All the Qin n members had left the mansion within three days, taking nothing with them.

    During the Chen n''s takeover of the Qin n mansion and their businesses, the entire imperial city waspletely reshuffled.

    The Qin n was now history, and the other ns that had helped them, namely, the Zhu n, and the Lu n also faded into oblivion and became history.

    Although Chen Fan didn¡¯t wipe them outpletely, he ughtered their leaders. In a corrup environment like the imperial city, this made them vulnerable, and other ns quickly divided their assets.

    Meanwhile, the Nangong n had also been on the decline.

    Nangong Baxiong had publicly separated from the Nangong n. Afterward, he brought the Moon Bloodline members with him to the Chen n.

    Now, the number of Core Formation realm experts the Nangong n had could be counted on one hand. Aside from Nangong Xuan¡ªat the seventh level¡ªthe others were only at the first or second level.

    As one of the four great ns, they had a lot of businesses in the imperial city that drew envy from the others.

    In the past, the Nangong n thrived, and people dared not make any reckless moves despite desiring their assets. But now, the Nangong n had hit rock bottom. The Yang n and the Su n took the opportunity to strike, taking advantage of the situation to seize the Nangong n¡¯s businesses.

    Despite being furious at the situation, Nangong Xuan and the others were powerless to do a thing in the face of the Yang and Su ns.

    The Nangong n could have resisted the Yang and Su ns in the past; now, who would they send to fight back?

    Relying on the old and frail Nangong Xuan, a lone seventh-level Core Formation expert?

    The Yang and Su ns had taken more than half of the Nangong n¡¯s businesses, and their strength had declined steeply.

    Qingfeng Restaurant was thergest and most luxurious restaurant in the imperial city. Only those with a certain level of status and power could even step through its doors.

    Even the waiters and waitresses here were all in the Qigong realm.

    ¡°Life is truly like a dream. The thriving Qin n actually fell intoplete decline overnight and became history. It¡¯s really saddening.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s there to be saddened about! In my opinion, the Qin n getting their just desserts is what happened."

    ¡°Hehe, among the old four great ns, the Qin n and Nangong n have already fallen, reced by the Chen n. I think the imperial city¡¯s power structure will now be a three-way split between these ns."

    ¡°Nangong Xuan, that old fool, must have been truly blind. If he had chosen to stand by the side and take his hands off this matter, Chen Fan would have spared his n. Heck, he is only alive because Nangong Yue pleaded for him. The only reason the Nangong n is still standing is because of him. Otherwise, all their assets would have been divided up."

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Nangong Xuan doesn¡¯t have much longer to live, either. His death would mark the destruction of the Nangong n. I wonder what the Nangong n members think when they see the Chen n be more prosperous by the day?¡±

    ¡°Although the Chen n is now flourishing, don¡¯t forget Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian¡¯s uing duel. Chen Fan still has a little over six months, but once Duan Jingtian defeats him, the rising Chen n would be immediately wiped out.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not true. Nangong Baxiong has already joined the Chen n with the Moon Bloodline¡¯s people, and I heard that Nangong Baxiong advanced to the sixth level three days ago. So, even if Chen Fan dies, the Chen n will stand strong in the imperial city with Nangong Baxiong around.¡±

    ¡°I heard the Qin n members have all entered the royal pce?¡±

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>. After all, Qin Wudi¡¯s wife is Lord Chu¡¯s younger sister. With that connection, it¡¯s understandable that the royal pce would ept the Qin n members. Besides, the Qin n still has a few Core Formation realm experts to bolster their strength."

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, speaking of which, Nangong Qingshuang must be the most hurt by this. Her grand wedding became a joke. She would have be the matriarch of the Qin n in the future, but what happened in the end? She became the number one beauty of the imperial city wanted by none.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Even though half a month had passed, the news of the battle at the Qin n showed no signs of dying down. Instead, the talks were bing increasingly intense.

    Everyone in the imperial city was talking about Chen Fan and that battle.

    In a corner of the Qingfeng Restaurant¡¯s second floor, several figures were drinking with lowered heads and hushed voices. Hearing the discussions of the nearby crowd, their expressions became ugly.

    If anyone nced their way, they would realize that one of them was actually Nangong Qingshuang.

    Nangong Qingshuang¡¯splexion was ghastly pale and her eyes became dispirited as she heard the nearby conversations.

    Her wedding was ruined, and she had indeed be the number one but unwanted beauty. How pitiful.

    ¡°I heard something else too. Do you remember the imperial city¡¯s Zhao n?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I do. It was also arge n, but they disappeared overnight like someone had wiped them out. No one knows the reason or the culprit, right?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, aren¡¯t you a smart one? Then do you also know that Zhao Ru from that n took part in hunting down Chen Zhengqing? That mysterious masked man who caused havoc in the Zhao n delivered Zhao Ru¡¯s head to them...¡±

    ¡°What? You mean to say that mysterious masked man from back then is Chen Fan? So, the Zhao n¡¯s annihtion was also...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As the people from the imperial city dug deeper, more information about Chen Fan emerged. For example, it was discovered that the mysterious masked man who infiltrated the Zhao n was Chen Fan.

    At the Qin n mansion¡ªno, the Chen n mansion:

    Chen Tianxiong and the others had moved their family properties to the imperial city.

    The Qin n¡¯s businesses were unlike the Watermoon City¡¯s Zhao n and those other great ns. They wereplicated and very tricky; their assets were incredibly massive.

    The Yang and Su ns devoured the Nangong n¡¯s territories and businesses, but they dared noty a finger on the Qin n¡¯s, as that was Chen Fan¡¯s trophy.

    Laying a finger on it would be equivalent to provoking Chen Fan. Who would dare to provoke him now?

    Although the Qin n¡¯s assets were massive, Nangong Baxiong and the others managed to take over and organize them efficiently.

    The Qin n¡¯s treasury had alsoe into the Chen n¡¯s possession.

    Chen Fan arrived at the treasury. Gazing at the treasures piled high, he couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the Qin n¡¯s umted wealth. It was incredibly deep and rich, truly befitting the once number-one great n.

    <i>I wonder if there¡¯s any treasure here that I can use? Duan Jingtian¡¯s sentence is about to end. The day I sh with him is also close at hand. I need to raise my cultivation to the next level! </i>Chen Fan thought, his eyes flickering.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s name had spread far and wide, and everyone knew of him after the massacre at the Qin n, his uing sh with Duan Jingtian was looming, and he still wasn¡¯t absolutely confident in his victory.

    He had defeated the eighth-ranked Dongfang Yu in front of countless people half a month ago. However, as he had said then, Dongfang Yu might be ranked higher than Duan Jingtian, but his strength was inferior.

 Chapter 478 - The Heavenâ€™s Allianceâ€™s Worries

    <h4>Chapter 478 - The Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s Worries</h4>

    The news of the Qin n battle reverberated throughout the Great Chu Empire. Chen Fan''s name became widely known, making him a prominent figure.

    de Thunder Mountain, located in the southwestern region of the Great Chu Empire, resembled a divine de and housed countless pces and buildings, exuding a majestic aura.

    Lightning would asionally descend from the sky, cutting through the air and striking the de Thunder Mountain.

    Almost all the de Thunder Mountain disciples cultivated the de, practicing de arts and techniques. It was considered the foremost holynd for de arts in the Great Chu Empire. Harnessing lightning to temper their des was their unique cultivation method.

    It had been half a month since the battle, so the news of it had also reached the de Thunder Mountain.

    The de Thunder Mountain disciples were abuzz with shock and disbelief as they gossiped among themselves.

    ¡°Have you heard? Something monumental happened in the imperial city. The Qin n, the top n, was wiped out by Chen Fan. He fought a small army of fifty Core Formation realm experts and nearly ughtered them all. The ones still alive had to flee, crying for their parents.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I have heard that. Heck, everyone in the Great Chu Empire knows that. I even heard that Senior Brother Dongfang Yu stepped in and fought Chen Fan. He executed the Thunder Wielding Divine de but was still defeated. I wonder if that¡¯s true?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s true. Senior Brother Dongfang Yu was defeated. Everyone in the imperial city saw it. Where did that Chen Fane from? He¡¯s only at the seventh level. It''s one thing for him to have killed the Qin n¡¯s old ancestor, Qin Pokong, but he even overwhelmed Senior Brother Dongfang Yu. How terrifying.¡±

    ¡°I heard Chen Fan has reced Senior Brother Dongfang Yu and is now ranked eighth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard.¡±

    Dongfang Yu was a legendary figure in the de Thunder Mountain, revered much like Duan Jingtian. Therefore, when news of his defeat by Chen Fan reached the sect, it caused an uproar. No one could believe it.

    After all, Dongfang Yu was an invincible existence in the hearts of the countless disciples.

    At a mountain peak that pierced the clouds, Dongfang Yu was in deep cultivation. He stood on a cliffside tform, allowing the mountain winds to blow against him without moving an inch.

    He was clenching his fists tightly, feeling indignant.

    He had lost. Chen Fan, a seemingly nameless nobody, had defeated him.

    Dongfang Yu couldn''tprehend how he, of all people, could have lost to someone with a lower cultivation level.

    The de Thunder Mountain¡¯s sect leader descended from the skies.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Dongfang Yu immediately saluted and greeted him.

    ¡°Master.¡±

    The sect leader gazed at the vast sea of clouds and said, ¡°Dongfang Yu, no one in this world remains undefeated forever. If you lose, then just cultivate harder. Challenge him again and win when you¡¯re stronger. Brooding and indulging in self-pity are not the attitudes of a true de cultivator. You¡¯ve disappointed me.¡±

    Dongfang Yu¡¯s expression changed. He lowered his head and admitted his mistake. ¡°Master, I¡¯ve realized my mistake.¡±

    ¡°To err is human, and to correct a mistake is the greatest good. Don¡¯t disappoint me again. The Grand Sect Conference is near. All hope rests on you whether our de Thunder Mountain can produce a second Divine Nascent realm powerhouse. If you want revenge, use your time wisely to increase your cultivation. Defeat Chen Fan at the Grand Sect Conference and wash away your shame!¡± [1]

    Dongfang Yu''s expression became fierce. A sharp light shot out of his eyes as he nodded. de intent rose from him and rushed into the skies. He had experienced a breakthrough in his mental state, his de intent bing sharper and more domineering.

    Noticing the transformation in Dongfang Yu¡¯s de intent, the sect leader¡¯s eyes showed a look of approval.

    ¡°Very good!¡±

    Dongfang Yu said, ¡°I¡¯ll be sure to use Chen Fan¡¯s fresh blood to wash away our de Thunder Mountain¡¯s shame at the Grand Sect Conference!¡±

    ......

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect, the Burning Incense Valley, the Mountain River Sect, the Divine Light Sect, and other first-rate sects of the Great Chu Empire were all greatly shaken by the news of the Qin n. Chen Fan had wreaked havoc in the imperial city, killing Core Formation realm experts like he was pruning and defeating Dongfang Yu.

    ¡°How unexpected. Not only does the Spring Autumn Sect have Duan Jingtian, but now Chen Fan has popped out of nowhere. He pushed back Dongfang Yu while only being at the seventh level. What a monster!¡±

    ¡°Luckily, Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian are mortal enemies and will soon duel to the death. When two tigers fight, one is bound to be injured; perhaps one will die and the other be severely wounded. That would be the best oue.¡±

    ¡°The Grand Sect Conference is approaching. Hopefully, our sect will produce a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse this time!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As if by prior agreement, these sects were all looking forward to the duel between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian. They hoped for a fight to the death, ideally with both fighters either dead or critically injured. That would be the perfect oue.

    When the news reached the Spring Autumn Sect, the disciples and the elders were utterly shocked, engaging in fervent discussions.

    ¡°Have you guys heard? Senior Brother Chen Fan went to the imperial city and wiped out the number one n there. Lord Chu had to intervene and request Chen Fan to spare the Qin n¡¯s patriarch. He also fought de Thunder Mountain¡¯s number one holy disciple, Dongfang Yu.¡±

    ¡°I heard Senior Brother Chen Fan fought fifty Core Formation realm experts alone, disying unparalleled might and ughtered his foes. He instilled fear in those who attacked him, leaving them helpless.¡±

    ¡°How terrifying! Senior Brother Chen Fan only made a trip to the imperial city and stirred such a huge storm. He killed almost half of the Core Formation realm experts in the imperial city. What a killing star...¡±

    ¡°Hehe, imagine what the Heaven Alliance members must be feeling now. Senior Brother Chen Fan is like a god descending into the mortal world. His cultivation is advancing rapidly, improving by leaps and bounds every day. He even killed those at the eighth level while being a level below. Dongfang Yu¡ªranked eighth on the leaderboard and a master de user. What happened to him? Defeated! I¡¯m afraid Senior Brother Duan Jingtian feels immense pressure now.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s punishment is about to end, and the life-and-death battle between him and Chen Fan is near. Just thinking about it is thrilling.¡±

    ¡°Who would have thought that Chen Fan, once no different from an ant in front of Senior Brother Duan Jingtian, would rise to power so rapidly and be a fierce tiger, capable of challenging Senior Brother Duan Jingtian?¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Chen Fan even defeated Dongfang Yu. Things aren¡¯t looking good for Senior Brother Duan Jingtian. After all, he¡¯s ranked tenth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, behind Dongfang Yu.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Heaven¡¯s Alliance headquarters:

    Xie Feng looked at the gathered Heaven¡¯s Alliance members. Every one of them appeared anxious and concern was apparent on their faces.

    Before this, they had absolute confidence in Duan Jingtian.

    However, after news of Chen Fan¡¯s feats in the imperial city spread, their unwavering confidence in Duan Jingtian began to waver.

    Even Dongfang Yu was defeated by Chen Fan. Would Duan Jingtian still be a match for Chen Fan?

    Even they had doubts about Duan Jingtian now.

    1. Grand Sect Conference was mentioned in chapters 37 and 394, where the sects of the Great Chu Empire will gather and have a martial meet. In 394, we learn that the conference will be held after Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian¡¯s duel. ?

 Chapter 479 - Eighth-Level Core Formation Realm

    <h4>Chapter 479 - Eighth-Level Core Formation Realm</h4>

    When the news reached the Spring Autumn Sect, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members grew uneasy.

    Duan Jingtian used to be like a god in their hearts, inspiring blind confidence. They believed no one in the entire sect could challenge him or be a match for him.

    In their eyes, he was a god that had descended to the mortal world, destined to be the leader of their sect. Being an alliance member used to fill them with pride.

    However, with Chen Fan''s arrival, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s pride began to wane and crumble.

    First, Chen Fan dominantly killed the outer sect alliance members before provoking Duan Jingtian to attack him from afar, nearly starting a major conflict.

    Although Duan Jingtian ruthlessly humiliated Chen Fan, he survived and set a three-year agreement with him.

    Afterward, Chen Fan rose steadily. He entered the inner sect, stirred up a storm, and disyed terrifying strength at the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, killing three of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s executives in a row.

    Duan Jingtian broke the rules again and intervened; this time, Chen Fan won.

    These Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were all a little confused.

    In less than three years, the outer sect "ant" had climbed to this level, facing off against Duan Jingtian directly. In the end, Duan Jingtian suffered a significant loss.

    That was a first. Nothing even close to that had happened since Duan Jingtian rose to prominence.

    After that incident, Chen Fan advanced to the Core Formation realm,pleted his holy disciple mission, and became a holy disciple. He killed Feng Tianxia to truly cement his might and gain the ability to fight back against Duan Jingtian.

    Alliance members dared not act out of line in front of Chen Fan and even trembled in fear.

    During the year-long period when Duan Jingtian had to repent his actions, Heaven¡¯s Alliance members like them had to keep a low profile, waiting for Duan Jingtian to return and kill Chen Fan to re-establish the alliance¡¯s authority.

    However, before Duan Jingtian¡¯s punishment had ended, they received news of Chen Fan disying divine might in the imperial city, defeating Dongfang Yu.

    This was like a bolt from the blue for them.

    Who was Dongfang Yu?

    The Heaven¡¯s Alliance members all knew, or rather, the entire Great Chu Empire knew.

    The number one holy disciple of the de Thunder Mountain, a top-tier figure ranked eighth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, higher than Duan Jingtian.

    An invincible figure like that had lost to Chen Fan and was told to get lost in front of the crowd, and in the end, he really did.

    This came as a great shock to the mental state of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members.

    ¡°Senior Brother Xie Feng, those rumors... Are they true?¡± asked a Heaven¡¯s Alliance executive cautiously.

    Xie Feng nced at him and said evasively, ¡°Alright, get yourselves together. What does Dongfang Yu count for? And what does Chen Fan count for? They all have to submit before the alliance leader¡¯s might.

    ¡°Our alliance leader is a god amongst men. He¡¯s born to achieve great things and be a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse. That little bastard Chen Fan may shine for a moment and face our leader, but he¡¯s no match for him.

    ¡°Our Heaven¡¯s Alliance will surely stand in the Spring Autumn Sect for eternity. No one can shake it! Just continue with your duties. The alliance leader¡¯s punishment ends soon; when he returns, that little bastard Chen Fan will meet his end!¡±

    Despite Xie Feng¡¯s words, the atmosphere among the members remained somber.

    At the ck Wind Cliff, Duan Jingtian sat cross-legged, indifferent to the fierce winds battering him.

    Xie Feng returned to the ck Wind Cliff.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Duan Jingtian asked faintly, his eyes still closed.

    Xie Feng hesitated, then said, ¡°Alliance Leader, recently Chen Fan, that little bastard...¡±

    <i>Snap!</i>

    The words ¡®Chen Fan¡¯ made Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes snap open, shooting out two rays of light that broke through the air. ¡°What about him?¡±

    ¡°Something huge happened in the imperial city recently. Chen Fan overthrew the Qin n, killed their old ancestor, Qin Pokong, in one attack, and even defeated Dongfang Yu...¡±

    Xie Feng summarized the events.

    Duan Jingtian fell silent briefly. Then, he looked at Xie Feng and said, ¡°You¡¯re worried that I¡¯m no match for Chen Fan?¡±

    Xie Feng began sweating bullets. His heart beat fiercely, and his expression changed drastically as he said, ¡°Of course not. I¡¯ve never doubted you, Alliance Leader.¡±

    Duan Jingtian said faintly, ¡°Rest assured. The day I walk out of here is the day Chen Fan dies. What does Dongfang Yu count for? Don¡¯t trust that nonsensical leaderboard. If I want, I can easily kill Dongfang Yu.¡±

    Xie Feng let out a slight sigh of relief.

    ¡°Alright, go on. Don''t bother me if there¡¯s nothing important.¡± Duan Jingtian waved his hand. Xie Feng nodded and left.

    Looking at the vast sea of clouds ahead of him, a sharp light shed in Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes. ¡°Chen Fan...¡±

    ......

    Inside the cave at the cultivation peak where the high elder resided:

    ¡°Great news, Master. That kid Chen Fan went to the imperial city and raised hell there, killing Qin Pokong in one shot. Even the de Thunder Mountain¡¯s number one holy disciple, Dongfang Yu, was no match for him,¡± Wei Buyu excitedly told the high elder.

    The high elder nodded and said, ¡°This boy is extraordinary. The battle after Duan Jingtian¡¯s punishment ends will decide everything. Although Dongfang Yu is strong, there¡¯s still a gappared to Duan Jingtian.¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s expression stiffened.

    ¡°Master, is Duan Jingtian really that powerful?¡±

    The high elder replied, ¡°Very much so! Chen Fan is an exceptional genius, but so is Duan Jingtian. Both are monsters capable of fighting above their cultivation level, like gods among mortals.

    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate Duan Jingtian. If both of you were at the same cultivation level, you wouldn¡¯t even survive one attack from him. That¡¯s just how good he is. Although Chen Fan defeated Dongfang Yu, it doesn¡¯t mean he¡¯s a match for Duan Jingtian. He¡¯s at a disadvantage in terms of cultivation level.¡±

    Wei Buyu nodded and said, ¡°You have a point, Master, but I¡¯m sure that kid also understands this.¡±

    ......

    While the entire Great Chu Empire was abuzz with the news, the central figure, Chen Fan, was inside the Qin n¡¯s treasury. After finding the treasures he wanted, he went into secluded cultivation to advance to the next level.

    As Wei Buyu had said, Chen Fan was well aware of his weaknesses.

    He didn¡¯t be proud orcent after defeating Dongfang Yu, thinking he could definitely defeat Duan Jingtian now.

    At the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, Duan Jingtian had nearly split an expert at the eighth level in half in one move. That expert was none other than Wei Buyu. Even though Wei Buyu wasn¡¯t as strong as Dongfang Yu, he wasn¡¯t a weakling. This underscored Duan Jingtian''s terrifying strength.

    The only way for Chen Fan to ensure his victory was to raise his cultivation to its limit.

    A month passed in the blink of an eye.

    Inside the secret room, rings of invisible ripples spread from Chen Fan. The energy within him kept exploding and spreading.

    His aura was like a volcano on the cusp of eruption, distorting the space in the entire secret room.

    After what felt like countless years and mere minutes, a loud boom suddenly rang out from Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Monstrous waves surged violently in the secret room.

    An unparalleled pressure erupted and spread from Chen Fan. The steel walls inside the secret room cracked open from the impact.

    Chen Fan had finally advanced to the eighth level of the Core Formation realm.

 Chapter 480 - Nine Halls Golden Pagoda

    <h4>Chapter 480 - Nine Halls Golden Pagoda</h4>

    Close to three months after the battle that overthrew the Qin n, Chen Fan advanced to the eighth level. The energy within him surged like the mighty Yangtze River.

    ¡°Great! The eighth level, finally! With my strength, I should be among the strongest under the Divine Nascent realm!¡±

    A fierce light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He had killed Qin Pokong and defeated de Thunder Mountain¡¯s Dongfang Yu¡ªboth at the eighth level¡ªhe wasn¡¯t at the pinnacle of power below the Divine Nascent realm until now. After all, he couldn¡¯t defeat someone at the ninth level then.

    However, his recent advancement had made hisbat strength skyrocket. He didn¡¯t even have to fear those at the ninth level now.

    If he fought Dongfang Yu now, there would be no escape for his opponent. Chen Fan could crush him with overwhelming power. In a manner of speaking, his strength had multiplied tenfold with this advancement.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian should be out soon. Fine, I should also return to the sect andpete with him. Duan Jingtian, you¡¯re destined to die at my hands. I¡¯ll wash away the shame from three years ago!¡±

    Fierce killing intent shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. With his current cultivation level, he was at least eighty percent confident in defeating Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Still, I shouldn¡¯t leave seclusion right now. I should first bring my cultivation in the Nine Illusory Golden Core Secret Art up to speed.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered. He wanted to make sure all his bases were covered. He shut his eyes again and continued his secluded cultivation for seven more days.

    Sitting in a garden, Nangong Yue and Chen Zhengqing saw Chen Fan walking over and asked, ¡°Xiaofan, you¡¯re done cultivating?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded, ¡°Mmm, my closed-door cultivation is done. Father, Mother, I will be returning to the sect now.¡±

    Nangong Yue and Chen Zhengqing¡¯s eyes flickered. Chen Zhengqing asked, ¡°Your mother and I are aware of your match with Duan Jingtian. I have just one question: are you confident?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled confidently and said, ¡°Absolutely.¡±

    Chen Zhengqing stepped forward, patted Chen Fan¡¯s shoulders, and said, ¡°That¡¯s my son. Since you¡¯re so sure, go ahead. You have our full support.¡±

    He knew that Chen Fan had matured and no longer needed his protection. In fact, he had realized that he could no longer protect Chen Fan. Instead, he now relied on Chen Fan for protection. All he and Nangong Yue could do was trust and support him.

    Half a dayter, the Spring Autumn Sect came into Chen Fan¡¯s view.

    He was as fast as lightning, streaking across the skies, as he entered the Spring Autumn Sect. He came to the Heavenly Vein Mountains area, where he saw his personal cultivation peak and those of many other holy disciples.

    With a cold smile, Chen Fan looked at a deeper mountain peak¡ªDuan Jingtian¡¯s Jingtian Peak. [1]

    Nine golden pagodas hovered above Jingtian Peak, radiating boundless splendor.

    That was a Grade-4 exceptional quality treasure¡ªNine Halls Golden Pagoda. It possessed immense power and was a formidable defensive treasure, guarding Jingtian Peak and showcasing Duan Jingtian¡¯s wealth.

    Chen Fan had heard that Duan Jingtian once had an extraordinary stroke of luck, discovering an intact ancient ruin. Though no legacies were found, many incredible treasures were left behind.

    This fortuitous encounter helped Duan Jingtian advance rapidly, quickly surpassing the veteran holy disciples. He also obtained the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda from the remains.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fannded on his mountain peak; soon, Wei Buyu arrived. He saluted and greeted Wei Buyu, ¡°Master.¡±

    Full of smiles, he looked Chen Fan over several times and said, ¡°Excellent, fantastic. You¡¯re truly an exceptional genius, like a god among mortals.

    ¡°In such a short time, you¡¯ve grown to the point where I almost can¡¯t gauge your strength. It seems I¡¯m getting old and am no longer a match for you.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°You must be kidding, Master. I wouldn¡¯t dare to retaliate if you hit me.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, oh boy, you¡¯re even teasing me now.¡± Wei Buyuughed, shaking his head, and said, ¡°Your deeds in the imperial city have spread throughout the Great Chu Empire, even reaching us old folks. Well done, you haven¡¯t disgraced our sect¡¯s prestige.

    ¡°I assume your return means that you¡¯re already fully prepared for your duel against Duan Jingtian. How confident are you?¡±

    With a sharp gaze, Chen Fan said powerfully, ¡°A hundred percent!¡±

    ¡°Excellent. I believe in you!¡± Wei Buyu nodded, not doubting him.

    Chen Fan flipped his palm and asked, ¡°Master, do you recognize this treasure?¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmm</i>? How did the Moon Devouring Heavenly Wolf Scepter fall into your hands? This belongs to Chen Muyang, that old fogey,¡± said Wei Buyu, immediately recognizing it.

    ¡°Chen Muyang...¡±

    Chen Fan quickly realized that the gray-robed masked man was Grand Elder Chen Muyang. He had expected the masked man to be a grand elder but never expected him to be Chen Muyang, as he belonged to the neutral faction. This likely meant that he had pledged allegiance to Duan Jingtian.

    He wondered how many elders from the neutral faction had secretly pledged allegiance to Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Master, this matter is like this...¡± Chen Fan gave a rough recount of the events that transpired.

    A chilling light shed fiercely in Wei Buyu¡¯s eyes, and he said coldly, ¡°Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, and those guys... They dared to cook up a scheme to lure you out of the sect to intercept and kill you! They deserve to die! And Chen Muyang, that old fogey, he actually pledged allegiance to Duan Jingtian? How unexpected.¡±

    ¡°No need to get angry, Master. After I kill Duan Jingtian, I will settle the score with them. They won¡¯t get away. Even if I confront them now, they¡¯ll just deny everything and use me instead.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Even though you know who they are, they were masked, so you have no concrete evidence. They¡¯ll just make excuses and im we¡¯re ndering them,¡± said Wei Buyu.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°I¡¯ll just leave Merit Elder and the other old fogeys aside for now. Since I¡¯m back, I should get a little payback from Duan Jingtian first. He vited the rules and took my Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Today, I¡¯ll make him pay me back with interest!¡±

    Wei Buyu¡¯s gaze shook and asked, ¡°What are you going to do?¡±

    ¡°Just watch, Master. I¡¯ll take his Nine Halls Golden Pce first!¡±

    Chen Fan rose into the sky, tearing through the sea of clouds. He arrived above Jingtian Peak, his cultivation erupting. With a sideways nce, his palm grew muchrger and directly grabbed at the nine golden pagodas on Jingtian Peak!

    1. Obviously named after Duan Jingtian, but can also be read as heaven shocking peak. That¡¯s just what his name means. ?

 Chapter 481 - Seizing by Force

    <h4>Chapter 481 - Seizing by Force</h4>

    ¡°What is that?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s happening? The sky suddenly turned dark.¡±

    ¡°Is someone from the demonic path attacking our sect?¡±

    ¡°Impossible! Who from the demonic path would dare to attack a major sect like us? And even if they did, wouldn¡¯t they target the weaker mountain peaks at the fringe? We¡¯re living at the cultivation peak of our alliance leader, Jingtian Peak, protected by the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda.¡±

    ¡°Not good, someone is trying to take the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda above Jingtian Peak! Who exactly is it, how dare they! Quickly go call Senior Brother Xie Feng and Senior Brother Wan Luo.¡±

    Many Heaven¡¯s Alliance members were cultivating on Jingtian Peak, as the area was filled with rich primeval qi of heaven and earth.

    Ordinary inner sect disciples couldn¡¯t enter the Heavenly Vein Mountains, but alliance members could, as they had Duan Jingtian¡¯s protection. This was another reason why so many willingly worked for him.

    As Chen Fan channeled his cultivation to forcibly grab the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, many experts on Jingtian Peak soared into the sky, thinking demonic forces were attacking their sect.

    As they ascended, they saw Chen Fan standing in the distance, his clothes billowing in the wind, looking like an ancient god gazing down at them.

    His qi had transformed into arge hand with three fingers. Each finger emitted a powerful suction force, trying to pull the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda.

    Duan Jingtian had painstakingly refined each of those nine golden pagodas.

    Apart from guarding Jingtian Peak, it also pulled in the surrounding primeval qi of heaven and earth to this mountain peak, creating a holynd for cultivation.

    The Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, ced on Jingtian Peak, was integrated with the peak¡¯s advantageous geographical position. Trying to forcibly remove the golden pagodas was nearly impossible unless one could shift tectonic tes.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t care, as he could easily uproot a mountain and rip the earth apart.

    The depth of his qi and the immensity of his strength had simply reached an unimaginable level after his recent advancement. Under the Divine Nascent realm, he was one of the strongest cultivators.

    The Nine Halls Golden Pagoda was a Grade-4 exceptional quality treasure¡ªa rare and highly coveted defensive artifact. Even Divine Nascent realm powerhouses considered it valuable. Naturally, Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t let it go.

    During his trial at the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, Duan Jingtian had abused his position of power and took Chen Fan¡¯s Ice Jade Snow Lotus. He intended to take Duan Jingtian¡¯s Nine Halls Golden Pagoda as payback.

    As Chen Fan grabbed at it, his energy erupted. The entire Jingtian Peak shook as if doomsday had arrived. The mountain shook violently, about to copse.

    ¡°Chen Fan, what are you doing?¡±

    ¡°What audacity, Chen Fan! You dare take Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Nine Halls Golden Pagoda! Have you no regard for thews?!¡±

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh.</i>

    Two figures rushed out from Jingtian Peak¡ªXie Feng and Wan Luo. They were infuriated by Chen Fan¡¯s attempt to take the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda.

    ¡°Chen Fan, what you¡¯re doing is provoking us, viting the sect rules, and venting your anger! Do you want the elders to punish you? How dare you damage Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation peak!¡±

    With a twirl of his hands, more than ten flying swords appeared around Xie Feng¡¯s hands. Each flying sword was filled with a green light and was at the level of a Grade-3 treasure.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh, swoosh, swoosh...</i>

    pping his hands, Xie Feng sent those flying swords toward Chen Fan, trying to riddle him.

    ¡°A pearl as small as a grain of rice dares to show its tiny brilliance?¡± [1]

    With a quick grab, Chen Fan caught Xie Feng¡¯s flying swords. A casual rub severed their connection to Xie Feng, and Chen Fan added them to his own collection.

    ¡°You...¡± Xie Feng nearly vomited blood in frustration seeing Chen Fan stealing the flying swords he had bitterly refined. His eyes were wide with rage, feeling the urge to rush up and fight him to the death.

    Meanwhile, Wan Luo was so scared that he quickly put his treasures away, not daring to use them.

    ¡°No need to make such a fuss. Duan Jingtian abused his strength and status to steal my Ice Jade Snow Lotus. Today, I am just returning the favor.

    ¡°You¡¯ve abandoned your dignity as martial artists to be Duan Jingtian¡¯spdogs. Get lost! You small fries are not worthy to meddle in the affairs between me and Duan Jingtian.¡±

    Chen Fan shot a nce at Xie Feng and Wan Luo in disdain before striking with his palm again.

    It seemed the heavens were shaking in anger. Xie Feng and Wan Luo felt like they had been struck by lightning, and they spewed out fresh blood, falling like birds with broken wings.

    Below, some executives of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance revealed looks of despair when they saw Xie Feng and Wan Luo plummeting. They roared furiously, ¡°Quick, channel your cultivation and activate the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda. We mustn¡¯t let this beast take it away!¡±

    Since their establishment, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance had never faced such humiliation¡ªsomeoneing to their doorstep to seize the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda by force was a tant insult.

    Immediately, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members on Jingtian Peak channeled their cultivation and injected it into the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda.

    ¡°You small fries want to stop me? You truly don¡¯t know your ce!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, channeling more of his cultivation. He gripped the nine golden pagodas and lifted them violently, causing the air to crackle.

    ¡°Quick, inform Elder Liehuo, Merit Elder, and the others!¡± roared someone furiously. Someone else quickly sent amunication jade talisman flying out of Jingtian Peak.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t try to stop them. He continued exerting his immense power to seize the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda.

    ¡°Chen Fan, Senior Brother Duan Jingtian will be out very soon. You¡¯re dead, you¡¯re so dead!¡± Xie Feng and Wan Luo roared desperately.

    Chen Fan sneered coldly, ¡°I¡¯m actually worried that he would go into hiding. No need to yell here; it¡¯s useless. No one can stop me from taking the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda!¡±

    Suddenly, two furious roars rang out like thunder.

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    The entire space suddenly changed. A fiery palm seal that covered the skies descended, sting toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hmph!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned cold, and he snorted. He grabbed with both hands, pulling out the nine golden pagodas from Jingtian Peak. They flew toward his hands.

    As soon as the treasure left Jingtian Peak, a third of the mountain sank into the ground. It was now considerably shorter than the other peaks.

    Chen Fan had used his cultivation to push down the mountain into the ground.

    <i>Crackle, rattle!</i>

    Countless buildings copsed into ruins, stripping the peak of its former majesty. It seemed like it had been raided by bandits.

    1. An interesting saying that usually means something positive, like even something small can shine brightly. In this context, it¡¯s used disparagingly since a weakling is trying to stand up to an expert, overestimating their own capability. ?

 Chapter 482 â€“ Insolence

    <h4>Chapter 482 ¨C Insolence</h4>

    Chen Fan took the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, causing massive destruction to Jingtian Peak.

    Countless buildings copsed into ruins, stripping the peak of its former majesty. It seemed like it had been raided by bandits.

    Meanwhile, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members on Jingtian Peak were spewing blood. Theirplexions were ghastly pale, their breathing was heavy, and their expressions horrified.

    Almost all of them had channeled their cultivation and poured it into the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, but they failed to stop Chen Fan. It was simply unbelievable.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    After collecting the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, Chen Fan flipped his palm. The motion suppressed and shattered the fiery palm seal. He narrowed his eyes and looked at Elder Liehuo and the merit elder, rushing over.

    When they saw Jingtian Peak¡¯s appearance, the corners of their eyes twitched. They roared hysterically,beling Chen Fan as a great demon.

    ¡°What audacity, Chen Fan. How dare youmit evil and snatch Duan Jingtian¡¯s Nine Halls Golden Pagoda,pletely disregarding sect rules. You must have been walking on the demonic path for a long time. As sect elders, we shall punish you severely today, you great demon!¡±

    Themotion had attracted the attention of those on nearby peaks. Everyone emerged from their ces of cultivation to witness the scene from afar, their faces filled with horror.

    ¡°Heavens! To dare steal Duan Jingtian¡¯s treasure in broad daylight, what madness has taken over Chen Fan? Has he gone crazy?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear what he said? Duan Jingtian snatched his Ice Jade Snow Lotus. He¡¯s just taking revenge for it today.¡±

    ¡°I am more surprised by the fact that he seeded in collecting the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda. How terrifying! Duan Jingtianput a lot of effort into fortifying Jingtian Peak. It¡¯s impossible for ordinary Core Formation realms to attack it.¡±

    ¡°I wonder if Duan Jingtian will cough up blood from rage when he finds out about this!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, that madman!¡±

    The nearby holy disciples watched with flickering gazes, each one stunned by the spectacle. They all coveted Duan Jingtian''s Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, but no one had the courage or strength to seize it by force. Attempting such a task was unthinkable.

    Yet Chen Fan had just returned to the sect and immediately acted, arrogantly taking the treasure. Not only did he seed, but he also destroyed Jingtian Peak, reducing it to ruins. It was a ruthless p in Duan Jingtian''s face.

    What shocked them even more was Chen Fan''s overwhelming power, making it impossible for them to gauge his strength. How long has it been since Chen Fan took down Feng Tianxia?

    How could such a monstrous figure exist?

    Chen Fan looked at the merit elder and Elder Liehuo like he was looking at dead dogs. He smiled coldly and said, ¡°You want to punish me? You alone? What nonsense! I''d like to see how you n to do that. Come, make your move and show me. I don¡¯t mind ughtering a grand elder or two to establish my might!¡±

    ¡°What? The merit elder and Elder Liehuo are our sect¡¯s esteemed grand elders. How dare you act so arrogantly. This is a sign of qi deviation! You have gone crazy!¡± Xie Feng and Wan Luo roared furiously.

    ¡°Esteemed?¡± Chen Fanughed disdainfully and said contemptuously, ¡°In this world, strength is the only thing that matters! Without it, you don¡¯t even have the right to speak. Without strength, you¡¯re nothing more than a pig at my mercy!¡±

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    Elder Liehuo and Merit Elder were practically smoking from their seven orifices, mes of anger seeming to burst from their heads.

    As grand elders of the Spring Autumn Sect, they wielded immense authority and were feared by all. Yet here was Chen Fan, likening them to pigs in front of everyone. It was the worst humiliation of their lives.

    ¡°What, you¡¯re feeling indignant?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°If you¡¯re feeling indignant, let¡¯s go to the life and death arena. I¡¯ll take you both on together. You can even call that old fogey Chen Muyang; I don¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°Hoho,e on out, Chen Muyang. What, did you think you could still hide? I have your Moon Devouring Heavenly Wolf Scepter. Why are you even hiding? Afraid everyone would find out that you have be Duan Jingtian¡¯s dog?¡± Chen Fan said coldly, looking at the distant void.

    Immediately, the clouds and mist in that direction blew up.

    Sure enough, Chen Muyang appeared. He was so angry that he couldn¡¯t even control his aura, which blew away the clouds and mist and revealed his figure.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯re too egotistical, you little beast. You¡¯repletely disregarding the sect rules. You¡¯re too arrogant!¡± Merit Elder roared fiercely.

    ¡°Sect rules?¡± Chen Fan curled his lips and asked, ¡°Do you know why Duan Jingtian could repeatedly vite the rules? It¡¯s because he has the strength. And now, I possess that same strength! So what if I¡¯m viting the rules now? Can you two losers do anything to me?¡±

    The merit elder and the others¡¯ faces twisted from anger at his arrogant speech. Their gazes were fierce and malicious as if they wanted to eat Chen Fan alive.

    ¡°You¡¯re too impudent, Chen Fan!¡± Another furious voice descended. Several grand elders from the sect leader¡¯s faction had shown up, ring at Chen Fan.

    ¡°So what if I¡¯m impudent? Wanna fight me? I am not looking down on you, but even if you had twice your numbers, you¡¯d still be a bunch of losers!¡± Chen Fan sneered withplete disdain.

    ¡°Damn it, how dare you speak such conceited nonsense. I shall capture you and suppress you ruthlessly today!¡± A red-bearded grand elder, unable to restrain his anger, struck out directly.

    ¡°Old coot, since you¡¯re courting death, allow me to be your wingman. You really think age equals strength, don¡¯t you? It¡¯s time for you to be buried and rest in peace. Let me send you on your way!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes gleamed with a chilling light.

    Spear in hand, he disappeared from his spot and reappeared only to stab at the red-bearded grand elder. The winds and clouds rolled backward from the earth-shattering might.

    Chen Fan¡¯s attack shattered the grand elder¡¯s assault instantly, the spear light continuing forward with a force that shocked heaven and earth, making ghosts and gods weep.

    A terrifying aura instantly descended, dragging that red-bearded grand elder¡¯s mind into hell.

    ¡°Roar!¡± The elder, a super expert at the eighth level, quickly regained his senses and his overwhelming cultivation erupted.

    However, his struggles and roars were in vain. The attack pierced through the red-bearded grand elder¡¯s waist. Fresh blood sprayed wildly like a rain of blood.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    That red-bearded grand elder quickly retreated five kilometers away, hisplexion ghastly pale. He looked at Chen Fan, still in shock, his eyes filled with horror.

 Chapter 483 - The Sect Shaken

    <h4>Chapter 483 - The Sect Shaken</h4>

    Chen Fan stood proudly with his spear in hand, his might stunning those in the area. He nced contemptuously at the red-bearded grand elder and said, ¡°Nothing but trash, yet you dared to raise your voice in front of me? Who gave you the guts? You¡¯re really asking to die!¡±

    Hearing Chen Fan¡¯s humiliating words, the red-bearded grand elder was furious. His anger overwhelmed him, causing him to cough up another mouthful of fresh blood. His aura became chaotic as if he was on the verge of qi deviation.

    Everyone was extremely shocked.

    The red-bearded grand elder was powerful, being at thete stage of the eighth level. He was considered one of the top experts in the entire Spring Autumn Sect.

    However, a grand elder of such terrifying strength was defeated effortlessly by Chen Fan. If Chen Fan hadn''t held back, the attack would have struck the grand elder''s heart or head instead of his waist.

    ¡°My god, Chen Fan¡¯s strength is truly heaven-defying. Even a grand elder couldn¡¯t withstand a single blow from his spear. Has he already advanced to the ninth level?¡±

    ¡°Truly terrifying. No wonder he acts so fearlessly, disregarding the merit elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others. He''s already so overwhelmingly powerful."

    ¡°This must be the greatest humiliation these elders have ever experienced, and they are simply powerless to fight back.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I think Chen Fan was right. Strength decides everything. How could Duan Jingtian repeatedly vite sect rules without getting punished? Because he¡¯s strong. Now, it is the same for Chen Fan. The merit elder and the others can¡¯t do a thing to him.¡±

    ¡°I wonder if the sect leader will take action, though?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. This situation has escted, but he still hasn''t issued any orders. The high elder must be holding him back."

    ¡°Will I ever be strong like Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The surrounding holy disciples sighed as they watched Chen Fan¡¯s invincible figure. He had been a holy disciple for only a year, yet he had reached a level far beyond their reach. Even an elder at the eighth level couldn¡¯t block a single blow from his spear.

    These veteran holy disciples felt deeply ashamed.

    Comparing themselves to him was simply disheartening!

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, looked at the merit elder and Elder Liehuo, and said, ¡°Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, anything more to say? Want to make a move? Defeating that old coot wasn¡¯t even a good warm-up. Why don''t you join the fun? Don''t worry, I won''t kill you."

    His smile sent chills down their spines, a cold fear creeping from their feet to their crowns.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be too arrogant, Chen Fan. Your actions today show that you have no respect for the sect rules. The sect leader will punish you severely!" the merit elder said harshly.

    ¡°What a joke. If the sect leader wanted to punish me, he would have done so long ago. He still hasn¡¯t shown himself. Do you know why? Strength. Forget it, you losers wouldn¡¯t understand even if I exined it. I''d just be wasting my breath.¡±

    ¡°You...!¡± The merit elder was so angry he was about to have a heart attack. Being called trash and a loser by Chen Fan made him question his own worth. Why else would his cultivation and strength be inferior to someone so young?

    ¡°What do you mean, ¡®you?¡¯ Get lost, all of you! You''re not qualified to interfere in matters between Duan Jingtian and me. He once took my Ice Jade Snow Lotus by force; today, I will take his Nine Halls Golden Pagoda. If he defeats me, this golden pagoda will naturally return to him. If he can¡¯t win, he¡¯ll also lose his life. Why would he still care about it then? Go away!¡± Chen Fan shouted, cutting him off.

    The merit elder and Elder Liehuo, both Core Formation realm great experts, felt a jolt in their chests as if a sledgehammer had struck them. Their qi and blood tumbled and churned, and the air in front of them exploded by the inch.

    The merit elder and Elder Liehuo retreated from the jolt, their expressions as gloomy as stagnant water.

    Chen Fan had told the esteemed grand elders to ¡°get lost¡± right to their faces. They had simply lost all face. Their gazes turned icy, and they wanted to bury him alive right then and there.

    Still, they only had the power to do one thing: swallow their anger, as Chen Fan was too terrifyingly powerful. If they made a move, they would die. It was that simple.

    Chen Fan nced at the merit elder and the others and suddenly leaped to fly toward his cultivation peak. No one dared to stop him.

    The merit elder and the others could only watch as he left arrogantly, their chests heaving with fury. Their gazes could have set the sky on fire. A low pressure enveloped the surrounding five-kilometer area.

    The storm had ended just like that. The nearby holy disciples dispersed, heading off in different directions.

    Meanwhile, the merit elder and the others were speechless. None of them could say a word.

    Today, Chen Fan hadpletely and ruthlessly humiliated them.

    If the sect leader didn¡¯t make a move, even if all of them joined forces, they might not be able to deal with Chen Fan.

    The pheasant that was Chen Fan had risen to a tall branch and be a phoenix¡ªan existence on Duan Jingtian¡¯s level.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it!¡± the merit elder roared angrily. The nearby air currents crackled and exploded.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t the sect leader take action?! Chen Fan that little bastard acted arrogantly and tyrannically, disregarding the sect rules. Why didn¡¯t the sect leader step in and suppress him?¡± The red-bearded grand elder was also filled with resentment and indignation.

    Elder Liehuo said with a gloomy expression, ¡°Take action? How is he supposed to? Chen Fan is backed by the high elder. I¡¯m sure the high elder is holding the sect leader back. Moreover, who else can still suppress this little beast?¡±

    ¡°Alright, Duan Jingtian¡¯s punishment will end in seven days. When hees out, that will be when that little bastard Chen Fan dies. He can¡¯t act arrogantly for long!¡± said another grand elder with a dark expression.

    ¡°After Duan Jingtian kills that little bastard, I¡¯ll surely wipe out his nine generations! Surely!¡± the merit elder roared furiously like an evil spirit.

    ¡°Alright, I get it. Before that, we need to make a trip to the ck Wind Cliff. That little bastard Chen Fan is too powerful. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯s already at the ninth level. I wonder if Duan Jingtian can handle him?¡± said a grand elder, a look of worry surfacing in his eyes.

    They had bet their futures on Duan Jingtian. If Duan Jingtian could not handle Chen Fan, then they would lose everything.

    Given Chen Fan¡¯s vengeful personality, they would all have to pay a heavy price in the future. It was a scenario they hoped to avoid at all costs.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll make the trip to ck Wind Cliff. I''ve exchanged some blows with that little beast and have a decent understanding of his strength.¡± The red-bearded grand elder leaped into the skies and vanished into the depths of the clouds, determined to take action.

 Chapter 484 - Setting Off a Huge Wave

    <h4>Chapter 484 - Setting Off a Huge Wave</h4>

    ¡°Did you hear the news? Chen Fan messed up Jingtian Peak as soon as he returned to the sect and took Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Nine Halls Golden Pagoda. He even injured a grand elder with a single strike. He has to be a god or a devil with invincible might!¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s Nine Halls Golden Pagoda? My god, where did he get the nerve? Isn¡¯t he afraid that Senior Brother wille after him for revenge?"

    ¡°Hehe, the two will fight soon anyway. When Chen Fan was still an outer sect disciple, Duan Jingtian relied on his strength and status to take his Ice Jade Snow Lotus. So, Chen Fan¡¯s actions are just retribution, I say.¡±

    ¡°Just how angry will Duan Jingtian be? Will he fight Chen Fan to the death as soon as he leaves the ck Wind Cliff?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see. I''m sure Duan Jingtian has heard the news by now. I expect there will be some action soon, and it might be quite dramatic."

    ¡°Ahh... It¡¯s a shame I missed seeing Chen Fan take the treasure by force. How regretful.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Chen Fan has been too rapid. Even our grand elders are no match for him. I heard Chen Fan could have killed the red-bearded grand elder instantly if Chen Fan hadn''t hesitated to kill him."

    ¡°Raising hell on Jingtian Peak and disregarding the sect rules. It truly iswless.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire Spring Autumn Sect was shaken as the news spread.

    Jingtian Peak was Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation peak; before Chen Fan, no one had dared to cause trouble there.

    Chen Fan, a rookie holy disciple, took his treasure, injured a grand elder, and humiliated Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others without a care.

    The crowd couldn¡¯t believe all that was real, as in their eyes, each one of those actions was no different from seeking death.

    However, Chen Fan did all that and left casually without anyone stopping him. Even the sect leader did not make an appearance. This incident was like a bolt from the blue, shocking everyone deeply.

    As a result, everyone was eagerly waiting to see how Duan Jingtian would react.

    ......

    ck Wind Cliff:

    ¡°Elder, what brought you here?¡± A look of doubt shed across Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes when he saw the red-bearded eldering to him.

    The elder said, ¡°I¡¯m here today to tell you that Chen Fan has just vited the sect rules and taken your Nine Halls Golden Pagoda.¡±

    ¡°What? That little beast stole my Nine Halls Golden Pagoda while I was not around?¡±

    A cold fury surged from Duan Jingtian, making the red-bearded grand elder nearby feel a chill that seemed to prate his bones.

    The red-bearded elder felt somewhat shaken in his heart. He knew Duan Jingtian was very powerful and superior to him in strength.

    However, he didn¡¯t expect Duan Jingtian to be that powerful. The chilling intent arising from his anger made him feel an unbelievable coldness.

    ¡°That little beast imed that you took his Ice Jade Snow Lotus, so he is taking your Nine Halls Golden Pagoda today in return. He also said you could take the treasure back after defeating him; if you couldn¡¯t defeat him, he would also take your life.¡±

    ¡°That damned little bastard. Who knew a single rash action woulde back to haunt me like this? Damn it!¡±

    Waves of chilling light shot out from Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes as murderous intent surged from him.

    He looked at the red-bearded grand elder, sensing his unstable, even weak, aura, and asked, ¡°Red Beard Elder, you exchanged blows with that little beast and lost?¡±

    A bit embarrassed, the red-bearded grand elder said, ¡°My skills are inferior. That little beast is indeed terrifyingly strong. He defeated me in one blow. He probably possessesbat strength equivalent to a ninth-level expert. You...¡±

    ¡°Ninth level, huh...¡± Duan Jingtian narrowed his gaze slightly, a little surprised.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder he dares to act so arrogantly; still, he¡¯s sure to die.¡±

    A palpable killing intent radiated from Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes. He said to the red-bearded grand elder, ¡°Elder, spread the word. Seven days from now, we will fight to the death at the central battlefield!¡±

    ¡°Alright, since you have full confidence, we old guys also feel much more confident!¡± The red-bearded grand elder nodded and left right away.

    Soon, news spread throughout the Spring Autumn Sect, causing a hugemotion.

    ¡°It¡¯s set. The day for Senior Brother Duan Jingtian and Chen Fan¡¯s duel is set. It¡¯s when Duan Jingtian¡¯s punishment ends, which is a week away.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m really looking forward to it. Who will win?¡±

    ¡°That goes without saying. Of course, it¡¯ll be Senior Brother Duan Jingtian!¡±

    ¡°Not necessarily. Chen Fan¡¯s strength is also very terrifying. Even the red-bearded elder couldn¡¯t withstand a single blow from him.¡±

    ¡°All this chatter is pointless. Let¡¯s just wait and see the show in seven days. Their battle will be more spectacr than the battle between Senior Brother Duan Jingtian and Zhong Ya!¡±

    ¡°Unbelievable! Three years ago, who would have thought Chen Fan woulde this far? That crazy bastard actually did it. His terrifying strength is no inferior to Senior Brother Duan Jingtian now. It¡¯ll be an intense fight between a dragon and a tiger.¡±

    ¡°This battle will decide our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s future. Whoever wins will be the next sect leader and determine the oue of the faction struggles within the sect.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As the news spread, the entire Spring Autumn Sect boiled with excitement.

    Even disciples in secluded cultivation, usually detached from worldly affairs, emerged one after another, eagerly awaiting the fated day

    This battle would go down in the annals of the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s history.

    Duan Jingtian was the sect¡¯s most exceptional holy disciple since its inception. Before Chen Fan¡¯s rise, he alone suppressed all the other holy disciples, making them bow their heads and dominating the inner sect.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan was a legend and a miracle.

    In only three years, he soared from an outer sect disciple to a holy disciple. He grew to an astonishing level, possessing the terrifying strength to stand up to Duan Jingtian. Even the grand elders of the sect were no match for him.

    Duan Jingtian was an exceptional prodigy, and Chen Fan was a monster.

    However, Chen Fan was like a god among mortals. After all, even Duan Jingtian¡¯s rise to power wasn¡¯t as fast as his. In the people¡¯s eyes, his rise simply happened overnight.

    His cultivation improved by leaps and bounds day after day. Not even a rocket could catch up to the speed at which he advanced.

    Apart from describing him as a god''s descent, the only fitting words would be an immortal''s reincarnation. Otherwise, no one could understand how Chen Fan could rise to this level so quickly.

    Even though the merit elder made a well-intentioned mistake by giving him the Divine Stone of Life, it wouldn''t have such a dramatic effect on his cultivation.

    Apart from the inner sect disciples, even the sect elders and grand elders looked forward to the fight, their blood boiling in anticipation.

    For the elders in the sect leader and the high elder¡¯s factions, Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian¡¯s duel would decide the winner between the two major factions and their futures.

 Chapter 485 - Seven Days

    <h4>Chapter 485 - Seven Days</h4>

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Someonended on Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation peak. Chen Fan immediately greeted the visitor. ¡°Master.¡±

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°You know what''s been happening outside, right?¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Chen Fan asked, puzzled.

    Wei Buyu answered, ¡°That old fogey, Red Beard, went to ck Wind Cliff to see Duan Jingtian. Duan Jingtian has dered that he will fight you to the death in seven days at the central battlefield.¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t troubled by the news. Instead, excitement lit up his face, and his blood heated up instantly. ¡°Oh? Seven days, huh? That¡¯s perfect!¡±

    Exactly two and a half years ago, Duan Jingtian had humiliated him ruthlessly at the Dragon Mountain Peak¡¯s tform. He made Chen Fan feel like an ant and took his Ice Jade Snow Lotus. In response, Chen Fan taunted Duan Jingtian into setting up a three-year agreement.

    He had waited far too long for this fight and could no longer wait.

    He wanted to trample Duan Jingtian under his feet and erase the shame he had suffered. Finally, that day was on the horizon.

    "I thought you''d be surprised," Wei Buyu said helplessly, noticing Chen Fan¡¯s excitement. "I didn¡¯t expect you to be so eager."

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Why would I be surprised? I''ve waited too long for this. Each day feels like a year to me. I can''t even wait seven days; I want to fight Duan Jingtian right now and erase the shame I suffered back then, trampling him ruthlessly under my feet!

    ¡°Back then, he oppressed me because my cultivation was low. Now that we have simr strengths, only one of us can survive!¡±

    Chen Fan paused momentarily, looked at Wei Buyu, and said, ¡°Master, if I win this battle, everything will be fine. But if I lose, please take care of my n and family.¡±

    Although Chen Fan was confident, he remained rational.

    He didn''t have a clear idea of Duan Jingtian''s strength and would only know that after exchanging blows. Thus, he still had to consider the possible oues.

    Everything would be fine if he won; if he lost, his n would face a severe crisis. Therefore, he had to arrange everything beforehand.

    Wei Buyu nodded and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about this, but I still believe in you. I have no doubt that you will win.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded, filled with determination. ¡°That¡¯s right. I will be the one standing in the end. I will not lose!¡±

    ¡°Alright, I shan¡¯t bother you any longer. Use the next seven days to cultivate. Every bit of improvement counts.¡± Wei Buyu left after these words.

    Chen Fan looked at the space. Sharp light flickered in his eyes. ¡°<i>Hmph</i>! Duan Jingtian, in seven days, it will be your time to die!¡±

    He knew that Duan Jingtian would also spend every second of these seven days to increase his cultivation.

    Duan Jingtian had moved their duel up by half a year, which could mean two things: he either had great confidence in his cultivation or he was afraid of how fast Chen Fan was growing.

    Regardless, Chen Fan would not be idling during these seven days. He also had to make all the preparations he could.

    Losing wasn¡¯t an option as the battle would decide the fate of many, including Wei Buyu, the High Elder, and even his n.

    ¡°Seven days isn¡¯t enough to increase my cultivation, but I can use it to increase mybat strength. Duan Jingtian, you¡¯ll be dead in seven days.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure shed as he entered the secret cultivation room to begin his closed-door training.

    The atmosphere in the entire Spring Autumn Sect became incredibly tense abruptly.

    Although everyone was discussing the battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian in seven days, a sense of foreboding hung over the sect.

    This battle was not only a life-and-death battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian; it involved many people''s interests, even their survival.

    Everyone awaited the fateful day.

    As the time drew closer day by day, the atmosphere in the Spring Autumn Sect grew heavier and more oppressive. Hearts beat faster, and blood ran hotter.

    Disciples away on training or missions rushed back through the night upon hearing the news. No one wanted to miss the battle, which promised to be world-shaking.

    The news spread beyond the Spring Autumn Sect, shaking the disciples of other sects. Many holy disciples from various sects came to the Spring Autumn Sect, eager to witness the fight.

    The Spring Autumn Sect weed these visitors, opening its gates but enforcing strict rules against causing trouble within the sect.

    Many figures gathered on a mountain peak. Their clothing varied; they weren¡¯t disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect. These people were holy disciples from the various sects who hade to witness the battle.

    ¡°There¡¯s still three days until Duan Jingtian and Chen Fan¡¯s fight. I¡¯m really looking forward to it. My blood is boiling, and my heart is pounding," said a holy disciple from the Mountain River Sect.

    A holy disciple of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect looked at Zhong Ya and asked, ¡°Zhong Ya, I¡¯m sure this battle would be even more spectacr than the fight between you and Duan Jingtian. What do you think of it?¡±

    Zhong Ya said indifferently, ¡°The winner of this battle can only be Duan Jingtian.¡±

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s not for sure. Chen Fan cannot be underestimated. Even de Thunder Mountain¡¯s Dongfang Yu lost to him. About four or five days ago, Chen Fan easily defeated a grand elder of the Spring Autumn Sect. His strength is profound and hard to gauge. It''s difficult to predict the winner.¡±

    ¡°You guys have never fought Duan Jingtian. You can¡¯t know how terrifying Duan Jingtian is. Moreover, since he moved the date of the duel forward, I¡¯m sure he has absolute confidence.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, I guess we can agree on one thing¡ªthis battle will be spectacr. It would be like aet crashing onto the earth.¡±

    ¡°The Grand Sect Conference is in a year. No matter who wins this battle, it¡¯s very likely that the Spring Autumn Sect will shine brilliantly there, with another Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.¡±

    ¡°After another ten years, the Grand Sect Conference is here. I¡¯m really looking forward to it.

    These holy disciples from the various sects discussed among themselves.

    Time silently flowed by as everyone looked at Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation peak and ck Wind Cliff.

    Three dayster, as the sun began to rise, the entire Spring Autumn Sect came alive. Everyone surged toward the central battlefield like a swarm of locusts.

    <i>Dong, dong, dong!</i>

    Thick, heavy bell noises resounded, signaling that the earth-shaking battle was about to begin.

 Chapter 486 - Dueling Duan Jingtian

    <h4>Chapter 486 - Dueling Duan Jingtian</h4>

    <i>Dong, dong, dong...</i>

    A mellifluous, heavy, and slightly urgent bell echoed through the entire Spring Autumn Sect.

    All the disciples knew that something huge was happening in the sect again. However, their faces were filled with excitement, thrill, and anticipation because they knew it was the life-and-death battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian rose to power ten years ago, quickly establishing his might in the Spring Autumn Sect. He eventually became the number one holy disciple and created Heaven¡¯s Alliance, effectively controlling the entire sect.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan started his ascent three years ago. His rise was as fast as lightning, surpassing even Duan Jingtian''s rapid climb.

    He butted heads with Heaven¡¯s Alliance repeatedly; except for his initial setback due to his weaker cultivation, the alliance consistently ended up on the losing side.

    If Duan Jingtian was a genius appearing once in fifty years, Chen Fan was a rare monster, hard to find in a hundred years.

    Now, these two peak experts were about to collide like titans. How could the crowd not be excited?

    ¡°Finally, the week is up.¡±

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go to the central battlefield. This will be a battle of epic proportions.¡±

    ¡°It will decide our sect¡¯s future and our fate.¡±

    ¡°A fight between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian... Just thinking about it fills me with excitement. I haven¡¯t slept in three days and three nights.¡±

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s nothing. I didn¡¯t sleep the entire week! Look at the bags under my eyes. To be able to witness this battle would be worth it, even if I die.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The entire Spring Autumn Sect was boiling with excitement.

    Countless disciples converged from different directions, all heading towards the central battlefield. They all looked unusually excited and thrilled.

    Even the sect elders came out of their cultivation ces and flew toward the central battlefield in a hurry. Their faces were simrly full of unmistakable excitement and anticipation.

    ¡°Haha, let¡¯s go, everyone. This day has finally arrived.¡±

    Zhong Ya and the others also kicked off the ground one after another, making their way to the central battlefield. Witnessing the battle was their sole purpose foring to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Soon, the vast central battlefield was filled with a sea of people, bing extremely lively.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    The sound of wind being sliced echoed as numerous figures arrived.

    Everyone¡¯s gazes were on fire, their hearts pumping excitedly as they awaited the arrival of Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian for the battle of the ages.

    Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others gathered together.

    ¡°Red Beard, you went to ck Wind Cliff to meet Duan Jingtian, right? What did he say?¡±

    The red-bearded grand elder said, ¡°What else? This little beast will die today.¡±

    ¡°No need to worry, Merit Elder. Today, we just have to watch Duan Jingtian disy his divine might and kill that little bastard Chen Fan. After this battle, the entire Spring Autumn Sect will be ours!¡± said Elder Liehuo.

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Duan Jingtian is a god among us mortals. He¡¯ll surely be a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse in the future. We old men have contributed to his cause. So, we might also have a chance to touch the Divine Nascent realm in the future.¡± Grand Elder Chen Muyang also chimed in.

    Just as the crowd was murmuring among themselves, a boundless aura suddenly swept over, enveloping heaven and earth.

    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡±

    Immediately, countless eyes on the central battlefield turned in unison.

    Countless followers trailed behind Duan Jingtian as he flew toward the central battlefield.

    Duan Jingtian was at the very front, his clothes fluttering in the wind, looking handsome and dashing. A divine light radiated from him, like a god descending to the mortal world,pelling everyone to kneel and worship.

    Not a trace of aura could be felt from him.

    However, anyone who saw him felt as if their hearts were in the grasp of arge, invisible hand, making it hard to breathe.

    Behind him, the alliance members released their auras to the limit, revolving their cultivation. Their auras rushed to the skies, and they were like a well-equipped army with boundless momentum, suffocating those within a five-thousand-kilometer radius.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    These alliance members were Duan Jingtian¡¯s most loyal followers. At hismand, they would do anything, even sacrifice themselves.

    These people¡¯s auras connected as one, stirring the winds and clouds. The rolling white clouds in the sky scattered from the impact, and the auras covered the sky.

    ¡°What shocking auras!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s irises shrunk when they sensed the terrifying auras of the alliance members.

    Although their cultivation hadn¡¯t reached the Core Formation realm, their auras had merged as one. It could even intimidate Core Formation realm experts.

    ¡°Is this a power y?¡±

    Many people¡¯s eyes flickered.

    Duan Jingtian took a step forward and sliced throughyers of space until he stood at the center of the battlefield. He stood like a spear piercing the sky.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The alliance members also descended, shaking the ground. Their intimidating aura made the nearby crowd shrink back in fear.

    ¡°The huge battle is about to begin. What is Chen Fan doing? Why is he still not here?¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s cultivation is truly deeply unfathomable. Just by standing there, he gives me a sense of boundless oppression. It¡¯s like a god is over there, and everyone has to submit to his majesty.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? After a year of repentance, it feels like Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s strength has grown even more unfathomable.¡±

    The crowd kept sizing Duan Jingtian up, whispering among themselves. Even the esteemed elders¡¯ gazes were on him, their eyes narrowed and bursting with brilliant light.

    ¡°As expected of Duan Jingtian. He¡¯s sure to win this battle.¡± Merit Elder looked at Duan Jingtian, overwhelmed with shock.

    They could no longer fathom Duan Jingtian''s strength, which only meant it had grown far beyond theirprehension.

    Suddenly, a shocking roar resounded, exploding through the air like thunder. The entire space trembled from this voice.

    ¡°Chen Fan is here!¡±

    Everyone¡¯s gazes were filled with shock as they looked up one after another.

    They saw someone flitting forth like a bolt of lightning, tearing through the air. He moved so powerfully that a thunderous noise followed behind him.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    A dull thud rang out in the arena. The neer stood opposite Duan Jingtian. It was none other than Chen Fan.

    Seeing the two standing opposite one another, everyone¡¯s hearts pumped violently.

    The protagonists of this battle have both arrived.

    An unprecedented battle was about to begin!

 Chapter 487 - The Great Battle Begins

    <h4>Chapter 487 - The Great Battle Begins</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan is here! What an aura¡ªno wonder he can stand against Duan Jingtian.¡±

    The crowd was electrified as they saw Chen Fan on the central battlefield, their eyes fixed on him.

    With both protagonists present, an unprecedentedly fierce battle was about to happen. The spectators'' blood boiled with excitement as if they were about to fight.

    Chen Fannded in the arena, standing opposite Duan Jingtian. He looked at Duan Jingtian with a cold and fierce gaze, not concealing his murderous intent.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, the day has finallye!¡±

    ¡°I truly didn¡¯t expect this. Sparing your life back then was a rash decision, and now you¡¯ve grown to this level.¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression remained proud as he looked at Chen Fan with a lofty, superior attitude. ¡°You¡¯ve finally decided to stop acting like a coward. A mere ant has risen to challenge me. How surprising. I should have in you a long time ago, but I gave you a chance instead. Now, you won¡¯t get another.¡±

    ¡°You never could kill me!¡± Chen Fan said, ¡°In the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, your palm strike failed to kill me, and you couldn¡¯t kill me after I left the blessednd. You tried to kill me in the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, but you failed for the third time. However, you did injure yourself in the process and vite the sect rules. Tell me, what does it feel like to repent for a failure for an entire year?¡±

    ¡°Also, you gave me a chance? No, I fought off each and every minion of yours. Don¡¯t make it sound like you let me go. I am sure you remember how I killed executives of your alliance right in front of you.

    ¡°You never once won against me, Duan Jingtian. You¡¯re just a pitiful creature!¡±

    Xie Feng was also among the alliance members; he stood just behind Duan Jingtian. ¡°Chen Fan, now that our alliance leader hase out of seclusion, you will die a horrible death. Talk all you want, as those will be your final words.¡±

    ¡°Xie Feng,¡± Chen Fan said, his voice devoid of emotion, ¡°You¡¯re just a dog. How dare you bark here. Are you looking to die first?¡±

    ¡°You...¡± Xie Feng turned red from anger and shame at Chen Fan¡¯s words.

    As a core disciple and an Illusory Core realm expert, Xie Feng stood at the pinnacle of the inner sect disciples. Yet, Chen Fan had likened him to a dog, to be killed at his whim. That was too much.

    ¡°What do you mean, ¡®you?¡¯ Is my talk with Duan Jingtian something trash like you can interrupt? Did you really think you¡¯re important? You reckless fool!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s merciless words enraged Xie Feng to the point of nearly exploding.

    ¡°How domineering!¡± Duan Jingtian interjected sarcastically. He smiled coldly and said, ¡°Chen Fan, you have grown strong enough to resist me and even surprise me, but Xie Feng is right. Today, you¡¯ll die. No one in heaven or earth can save you.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, his face filled with disdain, and said, ¡°You talk big, Duan Jingtian! Your cultivation and status used to be above mine, yet you failed to kill me time after time. Now, we are on an even ying field, and you still dare to boast so shamelessly? It¡¯s reallyughable.

    ¡°You¡¯re stuck in the past, Duan Jingtian. You still think I¡¯m that Qi Grandmaster brat? Fine, I¡¯ll show you today that you have no qualifications to act arrogantly in front of me. Back then, you couldn¡¯t kill me, but today, I can kill you!¡±

    ¡°No need to waste your breath on him, Alliance Leader. Just do it¡ªughter that little beast and use his head to show the strength of our alliance to the world. Proim your invincible might!¡± roared the alliance members below the arena.

    Now that their leader was back, they had regained their momentum. They no longer had to keep a low profile and keep their arrogance in check.

    Today was the day to proim their Heaven¡¯s Alliance¡¯s dominance with this battle.

    In the future, the entire Spring Autumn Sect would be ruled by the alliance. Everyone else would have to submit to its authority.

    ¡°Come on, Duan Jingtian. Today, I shall trample you under my feet and cut you down in front of all these alliance losers. I want to see the look on their faces!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s imposing manner and words enraged the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members. They felt the urge to rush up the arena to beat and kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, since you wish to die, Chen Fan, I¡¯ll grant your wish! You probably thought you had the strength to resist me after defeating the de Thunder Mountain¡¯s Dongfang Yu. How na?ve!

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the truth. In my eyes, Dongfang Yu is only an ant! If I wanted to, let alone the eighth ranker on the leaderboard, I could have even dealt with the first ranker easily!¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s words stunned countless people, leaving them wide-eyed in shock.

    Those ranked within the top ten of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard were all dragons or phoenixes, standing at the absolute peak of the Core Formation realm. They were undisputed invincible powerhouses.

    However, Duan Jingtian had dismissed them as ordinary.

    If word of this spread, those ranked within the top ten of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard would probably be so enraged they woulde knocking on his door.

    ¡°Now, I¡¯ll show you how na?ve you are. This time, no one will be able to help you. Go to hell!¡± Duan Jingtian ignored the crowd¡¯s astonished gazes and struck out before his voice faded.

    He tore through the void on all sides at once. The fragile space was like a paper window, unable to withstand his w.

    As he tore through the space, the crowd immediately saw hundreds, if not thousands, of cracks in the space like long rivers. Each long river surged with energy.

    Those energies were as resplendent as starlight or mercury and were iparably heavy. They fell and struck with a rumbling impact, immediately cracking the earth open.

    Fiery rivers, ice rivers, de and sword rivers, lightning rivers¡ªhundreds of intense attacks¡ªhurtled toward Chen Fan as if to destroy the world.

    This terrifying scene deeply shocked everyone. The crowd was dumbfounded and petrified in ce.

    Chills ran deep into their bones, and they trembled uncontrobly.

    Who could stop such an attack?

    Duan Jingtian hadn''t struck until now; when he did, his immense power seemed unstoppable.

    He would crush everything that stood in his way with powerful energy, methods, and a domineering attitude.

    Chen Fan narrowed his gaze, sensing a terrifying pressure rolling over.

    Duan Jingtian was arrogant, but he had the strength to back up his confidence. His cultivation had truly reached the peak.

    With a casual swipe, all kinds of martial skills were at his fingertips to use at will. It was simply astounding.

 Chapter 488 - First Collision

    <h4>Chapter 488 - First Collision</h4>

    ¡°Let alone survive the attack, I am sure just a part of the shockwave can tear me to shreds.¡±

    ¡°As expected of a once-in-a-fifty-years genius. The attack can instantly annihte a hundred Core Formation realm experts. This is the power to split rivers and tear apart the tectonic tes.¡±

    ¡°Terrifying. It¡¯s too terrifying! This is only a casual attack from Duan Jingtian, and it¡¯s already this powerful. I can¡¯t imagine how devastating it would be if he got serious.¡±

    The crowd grew tense when they saw such a godly yet terrifying method. They were aware that the attack could annihte them, leaving behind not a trace of their existence.

    Zhong Ya¡¯s irises shrunk violently when he saw Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack. ¡°As expected of Duan Jingtian. Compared to when we fought two years ago, his strength has be even more unfathomable!¡±

    Two years ago, he had challenged Duan Jingtian to a fight, and they fought a shockingly fierce battle at Tianmen Mountain.

    After obtaining an ancient legacy, Zhong Ya''s strength had soared, so he aimed to dethrone Duan Jingtian from his position as the tenth ranker on the leaderboard. However, Duan Jingtian defeated him in just three hundred moves.

    That battle was deeply etched in Zhong Ya¡¯s memory, vivid and fresh even now.

    He had spent thest two years cultivating bitterly and had made significant progress, which made him think the gap between their strengths had shrunk. However, when Duan Jingtian struck, Zhong Ya realized the gap was still there and had widened.

    The alliance members grew more animated as they watched Duan Jingtian¡¯s powerful move shake the heavens and earth. Emotions surged, and they roared, basking in the glory of the moment.

    ¡°Alliance Leader is mighty!¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader is invincible!¡±

    All eyes were wide open, witnessing what seemed like a gigantic sledgehammer falling from the sky to smash an egg. They had no doubt the egg would lose all semnce of form, smashed into bits.

    The sledgehammer was Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack, while Chen Fan was the egg.

    <i>Buzz, buzz...</i>

    Hundreds of long rivers of energy descended, ready to engulf Chen Fan.

    However, just as this devastating attack was about to strike, the crowd suddenly felt the surrounding primeval qi of heaven and earth shake violently. It seemed like an ancient beast was awakening or a colossal god was standing up.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, don¡¯t embarrass yourself with such petty tricks.¡±

    <i>Snap!</i>

    An enormous hand, vast enough to obscure the sky and sun, rose from the arena and struck upward to hold up the skies.

    <i>Pop!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s true primeval turned into a massive umbre, deflecting the energy st of the hundreds of long rivers without yielding.

    ¡°My god, he withstood it!¡± someone shouted in astonishment.

    The crowd saw someone slowly standing up under the enormous hand.

    Initially barely noticeable, Chen Fan¡¯s aura rapidly intensified. He suddenly grew taller, holding up heaven and earth like a god.

    Chen Fan¡¯s clothes fluttered noisily in the fierce wind. He appeared majestic, his aura deep and thick, yet not overbearing. It seemed like he could bear the weight of all the lives under heaven and support a universe.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan said faintly, tearing apart with the enormous true primeval hand.

    Immediately, a mass of chaotic primeval qi appeared in the air, sweeping away the berserk energy and making it disappear without a trace. Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack was neutralized just like that.

    ¡°Amazing!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s gazes trembled fiercely when they saw Chen Fan effortlessly destroy Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack. Their jaws ckened, realizing the vast gap between themselves and the likes of Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°I knew you wouldn¡¯t disappoint me, Chen Fan. If you couldn¡¯t withstand my casual attack, this fight would have been meaningless. Fortunately, your strength is decent enough to warrant my attention, but that¡¯s all.¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Duan Jingtian did not attack, but his aura was like a mountain, crushing toward Chen Fan. Even experts at the same cultivation level would crumble under this crushing aura. He was indeed taking the fight more seriously.

    During the past year, while repenting for his actions, he had kept tabs on Chen Fan¡¯s exploits and the disturbances he caused.

    He also knew Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation had skyrocketed. However, since he had never fought Chen Fan, he remained skeptical of the reports. That earlier attack was a test to gauge Chen Fan¡¯s true skill and see if he lived up to the hype.

    By the looks of things now, Chen Fan didn¡¯t disappoint him too much.

    The true primeval around Chen Fan exploded, as the pressure had stimted his qi. A terrifying aura spread and countless phenomena manifested around him.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, I hope you won¡¯t disappoint me either. I have prepared a long time for this day.¡±

    All of a sudden, Chen Fan became incredibly imposing and invible.

    His energy surged within him, erupting and suppressing the surrounding space. The surrounding air currents instantly calmed, and Duan Jingtian¡¯s crushing aura failed to shake him.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan stomped on the space violently. The air within the surrounding kilometer or so suddenly copsed.

    The crowd felt a terrifying force descending from the void, squeezing and crushing them as if a steel te were trying to tten them.

    Chen Fan let out a passionate roar to the sky. He released his terrifying energy, and it erupted instantly. His aura went extremely berserk, shaking the space violently.

    He struck out with his palm in the air, and with a rumble, the stars fell like rain. The sounds of ghosts weeping and gods howling rang in one¡¯s ears. An intent to reap lives erupted, sting toward Duan Jingtian.

    Facing Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike, Duan Jingtian narrowed his eyes. An icy and dangerous light shot out. He fiercely grabbed at the empty air, producing numerous crackling noises.

    ¡°Shifting Mountain!¡±

    His grab seemed to have pulled out a mountain from nothingness. With a fling of his arm, a silhouette of a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain appeared in space.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack, crack, crack...</i>

    The mountain silhouette squeezed the space so much that snapping noises echoed, indicating its inability to bear the weight.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The mountain flew toward Chen Fan with shocking momentum. The crowd sucked in a breath of cold air, holding their breaths.

    If the mountain were to fall on them, they were sure that they would be reduced to a pool of crushed meat.

 Chapter 489 - Back and Forth

    <h4>Chapter 489 - Back and Forth</h4>

    The Shifting Mountain Seal shocked the crowd.

    They watched as the hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain silhouette crushed the space. The air exploded inch by inch and explosions rang repeatedly,pressing the space until folds formed, twisting into monstrous waves. Everyone''s hearts trembled with fear.

    They would instantly turn into meat patties if the gargantuan mountain fell on them.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Just as they were feeling shaken, the two¡¯s attacks collided.

    A deafening noise erupted, and a terrifying aura swept across the sky. The impact caused cracks to spread across the arena below, overwhelming even the protective formations.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand, under Chen Fan''s control, wed violently and shattered the mountain peak before smashing downward ruthlessly.

    The mountain shook fiercely. A cracking noise rang out before it disintegrated into a mass of primeval qi that dissipated into the air.

    <i>Hiss!</i> The crowd couldn¡¯t help but suck in a mouthful of cold air when they saw this scene.

    Duan Jingtian executed the Shifting Mountain Seal, manifesting a gargantuan mountain with unstoppable momentum. However, Chen Fan¡¯s Northern Star Reaper Hand shattered it like it was a block of tofu.

    ¡°How is that possible? Senior Brother Duan Jingtian¡¯s powerful strike fell apart?! Unbelievable!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s strength is truly terrifying. No wonder he went against Senior Brother Duan Jingtian time after time. I¡¯m afraid Senior Brother will have to put some effort into this battle.¡±

    Everyone in the crowd was shocked and terrified. However, the expressions of the alliance members were even somewhat ugly and gloomy.

    In their minds, Duan Jingtian was invincible¡ªa god among them mortals. Everyone would have to submit under his feet.

    Although Chen Fan was powerful, they believed he would be easily suppressed like a dead dog.

    However, the reality was somewhat ironic.

    Chen Fan¡¯s terrifyingbat strength had easily destroyed their god¡¯s Shifting Mountain Seal. Moreover, after dealing with the mountain, the three terrifying fingers continued downward ruthlessly, their life-reaping intent covering heaven and earth.

    ¡°Interesting.¡± Duan Jingtian only raised his eyebrow slightly when his attack was neutralized. A hint of surprise appeared on his face, but he immediately recovered his calm. Looking at the reaper¡¯s hand pressing down at him, his eyes opened wider and he struck out once more.

    ¡°Overturning Sea!¡±

    He flipped his palm and the primeval qi of heaven and earth converged before transforming into a huge seal that was like a vast sea. It instantly crashed down.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The sound of sea echoed through space as the Overturning Sea Seal surged upward, colliding with the reaper¡¯s hand.

    The sh was like Mars crashing into Earth, unleashing terrifying energies that shook and shattered the void.

    A terrifying energy storm rippled out in all directions, traversing heaven and earth.

    The collision of the two attacks was violent, producing shockwaves that swept across thends, shook the universe, and rocked the sun, moon, and stars. Even the gods would be appalled if they saw this scene.

    The force pushed away the air in the area. Air currents rushed out, mming onto the boundaries of the central battlefield and creating a vacuum in the arena.

    Immediately, runic lights shed violently on the boundaries¡¯ surface, causing the nearby people to quickly retreat, as if they saw the scene of the terrifying air currents rushing out and catching them in it.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    As the storm raged fiercely, Duan Jingtian moved. He stepped across space and time, trampling the rolling storm under his feet, and appeared above Chen Fan in the sky. He looked down with a cold and merciless gaze like a god looking down on ants. He pressed down with his palm.

    ¡°Flipping Sky!¡± The emotionless note resounded in space. Rumbling sounds erupted. Immediately, the winds and clouds rolled backward. The heavens crumbled, and the sky and the earth turned upside down.

    A terrifying force descended, enveloping Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan felt the world turning upside down. He saw the sky and earth flipping over and drawing close to uniting again, threatening to return to chaos and annihte the universe.

    In this space where he was, the air boiled and the sky and earth had flipped over. He only felt as if the world was about to copse.

    An aura of death shrouded him, making his heart sink to the depths of an abyssal hell.

    But this onlysted for an instant. Chen Fan quickly regained hisposure, his gaze bing fierce. His cultivation erupted, and an invisible force stabilized the surrounding space.

    ¡°Great Brahma Sacred Palm, annihte!¡±

    Chen Fan raised his head. Boundless terrifying golden light immediately burst out from his palm and transformed into a gigantic golden palm, shaking the heavens as if it wanted to annihte everything.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    <i>Rumble, rumble...</i>

    Heaven and earth rumbled, and thunderps resounded. A terrifying force violently ravaged the space.

    The Great Brahma Sacred Palm crushed everything in its path. The upside-down space was shattered, and the palm continued sting toward Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian furrowed his brow, as he hadn¡¯t expected his Flipping Sky Seal to be neutralized by Chen Fan¡¯s attack. The Great Brahma Sacred Palm was rushing at him.

    The terrifying force surged through the void, raging toward him with the momentum to topple mountains and overturn seas. He felt a strong sense of danger.

    However, who was he?

    He was Duan Jingtian!

    He was a god who had descended into this world. He would unite the world in the future, and control the entire Spring Autumn Sect. There was no way he would give up just like that.

    ¡°Snowfilled Universe!¡±

    A terrifying cold intent spread out from Duan Jingtian. The sound of space freezing rang out. Snowkes fell from the sky, and the terrifying cold intent froze the sky.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Great Brahma Sacred Palm also froze, its boundless golden light suppressed.

    The crowd could see the terrifying palm seal covered in ice, frozen right there. They all felt their hearts trembling.

    Duan Jingtian lightly stomped on the ground.

    ¡°Shatter!¡±

    Cracking noises rang out as the frozen space shattered. Chen Fan¡¯s Great Brahma Sacred Palm followed suit, shattering and turning into countless fragments.

    Chen Fan¡¯s pupils shrank slightly. This was out of his expectations.

    Duan Jingtian didn¡¯t mill about after destroying the attack. His cultivation surged again. His arms moved gracefully, condensing numerous icicles that hovered densely behind him.

    ¡°Go!¡±

    With a wave of his arm, the icicles, filled with terrifying prative power, shot out like projectiles. They flew toward Chen Fan with lightning speed, aiming to turn him into a sieve.

    <i>Swish, swish. Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Countless sharp, ear-piercing noises filled the space, causing everyone¡¯s hair to stand on end.

 Chapter 490 - Starting to Get Serious

    <h4>Chapter 490 - Starting to Get Serious</h4>

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh, swoosh, swoosh...</i>

    Countless icicles with terrifying prative power locked down heaven and earth and rained down on Chen Fan.

    The onlookers felt chills. They were sure that they would be helpless in the face of such an attack, merely watching as the icicles turned them into a human sieve.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    But Chen Fan was different. He wouldn¡¯t stand still and wait for death.

    His cultivation erupted, and three heads and six arms appeared as Chen Fan directly pushed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist to its limit.

    The fierce and berserk might of his punches was like powerful cannon sts. Their momentum was shocking; it left the space shaken and generated monstrous waves.

    Although Undefeated King¡¯s Fist was only an upper-profound tier martial skill, at Chen Fan¡¯s level, his mastery of qi transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary.

    Even a simple punch from him could release incredible power.

    A barrage of fist energy erupted, shing repeatedly with the iing icicles.

    <i>Rumble, rumble...</i>

    Loud booms rang continuously in the area.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    As his attack shattered the icicles, he strode forth, wrapped in a shocking aura as he closed in on Duan Jingtian.

    The terrifying cold intent and the icicles failed to stop his advancement in the slightest.

    Fierce! Fierce! Fierce!

    Chen Fan attacked brazenly, like a terrifying god of war. His aura churned, covering the sky.

    His gaze was like lightning, cutting through the heavens. His hands were like the wrath of thunder, tearing mountains apart. His true primeval was like a meteor crashing onto the earth, destroying thends.

    No one could urately describe Chen Fan¡¯s aura; it was simply too terrifying. He advanced, facing the countless icicles head-on. His punches shook the skies, shattered the space, and crushed the icicles. The resultant rippling force transformed into long rivers of energy, sweeping across the sky.

    Everyone felt his overwhelming strength. Those violent fists shook heaven and earth. Even the gods would fall to those fists in regret, with only one option for survival: evading. The crowd was about to suffocate from the sight.

    ¡°He¡¯s too fierce!¡±

    ¡°Is this really the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist? Was it always this powerful? It¡¯s simply earth-shaking, like it could destroy the heavens and tear the earth apart.¡±

    ¡°Terrifying, too terrifying! Chen Fan¡¯s strength is certainly on par with Duan Jingtian.¡±

    Everyone was shaken, including those high and mighty grand elders.

    These powerful individuals could sense the terrifying strength in each of Chen Fan¡¯s punches, leaving them trembling in fear. They had no doubt that if those punches hit them, they would be obliterated.

    Likewise, they could also sense Duan Jingtian¡¯s tremendous strength. The icicles could not only freeze the heavens but also pierce through anything.

    Both fighters had reached a staggeringly high level of strength, making these elders who had cultivated for centuries sweat and feel ashamed.

    ¡°Show your true power, Duan Jingtian. These party tricks aren¡¯t even a good warm-up. Shatter!¡± Chen Fan roared, his aura suddenly going berserk. Undefeated King¡¯s Fist broke through heaven and earth, crushing space-time.

    His fist energies rushed out like crazed dragons, destroying all the icicles between heaven and earth in a sh and continuing their assault on Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian narrowed his gaze, his face showing an icy resolve. Channeling his true primeval, he thrust out his palm. The palm energy condensed and smashed the surging fist energies to smithereens.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I must admit that you¡¯ve grown from an ant to someone with significant strength in only three years. It¡¯s nothing short of a miracle. Ordinary attacks are indeed not enough to bring you down. So, prepare to witness the arrival of hell!¡±

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice was calm, but everyone felt their hearts race at his words. They all realized that he was angry.

    Although his face showed no emotion, his fury was erupting within. He was about to reveal his true strength.

    In this short exchange, Duan Jingtian had clearly gauged Chen Fan¡¯s strength. Trying to defeat Chen Fan with ordinary techniques was pointless now.

    He had to acknowledge Chen Fan¡¯s monstrous abilities.

    Three years and Chen Fan had grown to this extent. It was unthinkable¡ªa true miracle. It was unprecedented, and no one could replicate his achievements.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I acknowledge your monstrous talent, but that¡¯s all there is to it. The day you opposed me, your fate was sealed. You will die at my hands.

    ¡°Your strength is impressive, butpared to me, you are still far behind. Before absolute strength, what good is all that talent? Prepare to meet your end!¡±

    Duan Jingtian grabbed at the air with his hand, and the Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared.

    A sharp qi burst out from the divine halberd. With a wave of his arm, Duan Jingtian executed his halberd art.

    ¡°Star Shattering Halberd!¡±

    Provoked by Duan Jingtian¡¯s true primeval, the Purgatory Divine Halberd immediately awakened. A towering and terrifying aura erupted. It seemed like a corner of hell was at the tip of the halberd.

    A thousand-meter-long sharp halberd light appeared. Like aet, it streaked across the starry sky, dragging a tail behind it, tearing an enormous pitch-ck crack open in the sky.

    A deathly power locked onto Chen Fan almost instantly. He saw an iparably terrifying halberd light tearing down at him, making even his soul tremble.

    A fierce light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He knew Duan Jingtian was finally serious and unleashing his true terrifying strength.

    Immediately, he raised his aura once more. His true primeval surged as he executed the Great Brahma Sacred Palm.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The gigantic palm, bursting with golden light, was torn apart by the halberd light in the violent collision. The halberd light continued descending upon Chen Fan, aiming to kill him.

    ¡°Perfect timing!¡±

    Although the Great Brahma Sacred Palm was destroyed, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t surprised. He rushed into the sky, wielding the iron spear. His strength surged, and he thrust his spear violently to meet the attack head-on.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sound of the sky crumbling and the earth cracking rang out, causing the crowd''s minds to buzz and go nk. Their souls seemed to dissipate from the shock.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, get destroyed, Chen Fan. Today, the road to hell is the only path for you, whether in the sky or on the ground. No one can save you! To die by my Purgatory Divine Halberd could be considered your fortune.¡±

    Duan Jingtian stepped forward, his invincible aura sweeping out.

    Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Duan Jingtian looked like a god from purgatory, ready to harvest Chen Fan¡¯s life. Swinging his arm, streaks of halberd light erupted, cutting through space and rushing toward Chen Fan.

 Chapter 491 - Unmatched Fierce Battle

    <h4>Chapter 491 - Unmatched Fierce Battle</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifyingly destructive storm broke out with deafening explosions, ravaging the space.

    A violent turbulence engulfed the entire central area, capable of shredding a Core Formation realm expert.

    In that chaotic space, two people exchanged blows fiercely, creating massive shockwaves that swept through the area.

    Everyone was shaken, struggling to maintain theirposure.

    ¡°st!¡±

    A massive hand suddenly tore through space, aiming directly at Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Annihte!¡± With amanding voice and unmatched aura, Duan Jingtian made his true primeval erupt, shaking the heavens. Following his furious shout, he unleashed a brilliant light with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, striking at the enormous hand like a fierce flood dragon.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A loud sh echoed as the Purgatory Divine Halberd shredded the gigantic hand. Primeval qi from the hand quickly scattered in all directions.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The terrifying storm hadn¡¯t stopped ravaging the area. Arge portion of space copsed before everyone''s eyes, descending into chaos.

    A thunderous spear light cut through the sky, as if from the depths of space-time, poised to pierce heaven and earth and strike down Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Duan Jingtian snorted coldly and flipped his left hand, unleashing a Shifting Mountain Seal. An ancient divine mountain materialized, suppressing the starry sky, and crashed toward the spear light.

    He simultaneously waved his right hand and sent a halberd light slicing through space-time, aiming to shred Chen Fan.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The wind howled mournfully. The air couldn¡¯t escape in time and waspressed by their fierce exchange, bing as dense as steel tes, only to be torn apart by the immense force.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang. Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Deafening explosions rang out endlessly like a cascade of firecrackers. The entire space turned into a destructive space-time, destroying everything.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian fought through this destruction like two gods. Their exchange set off even more destruction that radiated outwards, threatening to annihte the entire universe.

    ¡°This... Is this really a sh between human martial artists?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too scary. The sky copsing and seas drying up aren¡¯t enough to describe it.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure those two are just Core Formation realm experts, not Divine Nascent realm powerhouses?¡±

    ¡°They are exceptional geniuses. Immortals among us mortals, I say. Although they haven¡¯t cultivated for long, they are far stronger than those old monsters who have cultivated for over a century.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless people were shocked by their intense battle. Only a fight between two gods could create such a horrifying sight of destruction.

    Apart from the disciples, even the grand elders of the Spring Autumn Sect stared wide-eyed and ck-jawed. They felt their centuries of life had been in vain, ashamed of their inferiority to the two young men in battle.

    ¡°Frightening! Too frightening! Indeed, the new generation constantly reces the old, and we can only fade into obscurity. We old men are no match for them.¡±

    ¡°Indeed. Both of them wield terrifying strength, allowing them to crush any martial artists in the same cultivation level. Theirbat strength isparable to ninth-level Core Formation realm experts. They are at the pinnacle of the Core Formation realm.¡±

    ¡°The young are to be feared. The young are truly to be feared!¡±

    ¡°Such a pity that our sect¡¯s internal struggles are this severe. Without this conflict, our sect wouldn¡¯t have to worry about its prosperity with these two around.¡±

    Many of the grand elders from the neutral faction sighed in frustration.

    This should have been a sign of great future prosperity for the Spring Autumn Sect. Unfortunately, the internal strife within the sect led these two to stand on opposite sides, resulting in a battle that would decide the sect¡¯s fate.

    Regardless of whether Chen Fan or Duan Jingtian perished, it would be an unbearable loss for the Spring Autumn Sect.

    An exceptional genius is worth more than hundreds or even thousands of mediocre talents.

    ¡°Damn it, how could Chen Fan, that little bastard, be so powerful? How is he fighting Duan Jingtian on equal grounds? Damn it, damn it!¡±

    Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others¡¯ expressions appeared somewhat gloomy. They clenched their fists tightly, feeling the urge to rush in there and help Duan Jingtian deal with Chen Fan.

    ¡°Kid, you must win!¡± Wei Buyu and the other grand elders in the high elder¡¯s faction also looked very anxious. Their palms were covered in sweat, and their hearts were pounding.

    It was as if Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian weren¡¯t the ones fighting, but them.

    ......

    His back straight, Duan Jingtian held the Purgatory Divine Halberd with an indifferent look. His aura shot straight up to the sky, rushing toward Chen Fan. He stepped across the vast sky, crushing the void with his steps. His berserk strength surged, making it impossible for others to look straight at him. He was like the reincarnation of an ancient god.

    ¡°Chen Fan, go to hell!¡±

    Duan Jingtian moved with incredible speed, instantly crossing the vast sky and leaving a trail of afterimages behind him.

    His berserk strength surged with shocking momentum. Hisbat strength rose to the peak, his qi swallowing mountains and rivers.

    ¡°Go meet your maker!¡± Duan Jingtian shouted coldly. It seemed like his Purgatory Divine Halberd could cut through the world. Countless stars fell like rain, and the wailing of gods resounded in space. It was like the Twilight of the Gods. [1]

    The terrifying halberd shattered the fabric of space-time, returning it to primal chaos as it stabbed toward Chen Fan. It was the epitome of terror.

    Chen Fan did not show any signs of weakness. His aura surged ever higher like the tide, and his aura boiled, sweeping across thends.

    Thrusting his arm out fiercely, Chen Fan set off a monstrous wave. The spear in his hand was like a pir that could hold up the sky, sweeping across.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd collided with Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear. The space at the heart of the collision was directly torn apart, then crumbled and copsed like andslide. It seemed like the end of the world had arrived.

    Many people were incredibly shocked, feeling like ants in front of Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian. They loomed infinitelyrge in their eyes, dominating the skies.

    ¡°Very well, Chen Fan, you truly didn¡¯t disappoint me. It¡¯s no wonder you defeated Dongfang Yu. You are indeed very powerful, but no matter how strong you are, only death awaits you today!¡±

    Though Duan Jingtian was astonished by Chen Fan¡¯s strength, he remained resolute. He had underestimated Chen Fan, despite knowing he was powerful enough to defeat Dongfang Yu.

    However, his mind remained iparably firm. No matter how strong Chen Fan was, Duan Jingtian was certain he would cut him down.

    With an even colder expression and a gaze sharp as a de, Duan Jingtian moved the Purgatory Divine Halberd again. It drew a streak of ebony light that rushed toward Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd unleashed a boundless pressure, piercing the void. Murderous qi enveloped the halberd, sweeping across the sky. It covered heaven and earth and shrouded Chen Fan; it was like purgatory was materializing around him.

    1. Twilight of the Gods is from German Mythology. It¡¯s about the destruction of the gods and of all things in a final battle with evil powers; G?tterd?mmerung. ?

 Chapter 492 - Duan Jingtian Bursts Forth

    <h4>Chapter 492 - Duan Jingtian Bursts Forth</h4>

    Chen Fan quicklyunched himself off the ground, his aura producing a monstrous wave. The iron spear in his hand roared like a gigantic ck dragon as he thrust it forward.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Heaven and earth shook.

    Their sh made the air copse, creating a vacuum. Killing intent filled the air and much of the space in the area crumbled from the shockwaves.

    This was an epic duel that shook heaven and earth. Countless people felt horrified. Even those at the same cultivation level were like ants in front of the two.

    ¡°Die!¡± Duan Jingtian attacked crazily. His Purgatory Divine Halberd unleashed streaks of light that could seemingly annihte the world, slicing through space. The force of his attack caused space-time itself to shatter.

    Those halberd lights took the shapes of dragons and tigers, condensing into a deadly momentum. Their murderous energy filled the sky, and they were powerful enough to sever the heavenly river.

    ¡°Divine Halberd World Annihtion!¡±

    The dragon and tiger halberd light sshed through the air. If unleashed in a forest, the attack could instantly erase all the demon beasts within.

    Chen Fan suddenly clenched his fist, and boundless golden light gathered around it.

    A royal pce with countless enlightened Buddhas materialized. The Buddhas spat golden characters that transformed into endless golden light, bursting forth.

    Great Brahma Sacred Palm!

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Chen Fan thrust his palm, and the golden light sshed out, purifying the surrounding five thousand kilometers with unrivaled power.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, if this is all you''ve got, then not even the gods can save you today!¡± Chen Fan shouted. His iron spear erupted with a terrifying aura, and a spear light even more powerful and fearsome than before pierced through space.

    Chen Fan had gone all out with this attack; it looked extraordinarily terrifying.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The spear and halberd collided. A terrifying ripple instantly spread from the tips of their weapons, causing the air to explode and form pockets of vacuum.

    The terrifying sh also generated dizzying air currents. It was like the numerous gxies in the nine heavens were raining down, making the earth tremble.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Duan Jingtian only felt a terrifying force surge through his halberd, reaching his hand instantly.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Since he had a two-handed grip on the halberd, his hand webbings tore open from Chen Fan''s overwhelming force. Fresh blood flowed down his hands, sttering into the air.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The crowd erupted in astonishment.

    ¡°Heavens, Duan Jingtian is injured!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan truly possesses unrivaled strength. He actually injured Duan Jingtian!¡±

    ¡°How did he change so drastically? He suddenly rose to power, and his cultivation improved by leaps and bounds day after day. Is he like the reincarnation of some god? Or did he obtain some earth-shaking legacy?¡±

    ¡°Duan Jingtian must be furious now. I wonder if he will go crazy and unleash even greater strength?¡±

    ¡°How is this possible?! That beast couldn¡¯t have injured the Alliance Leader!¡±

    ¡°Impossible, Alliance Leader is invincible!¡±

    ¡°No one is a match for Alliance Leader! He¡¯s a god, destined to rule the world. He¡¯s born divine and invincible. How could he be injured?¡±

    The numerous alliance members couldn¡¯t believe that Duan Jingtian was injured. They were all in disbelief, muttering to themselves.

    <i>Drip!</i>

    Another drop of fresh blood fell from the sky,nding on the destroyed arena below.

    ¡°Haha, hahaha!¡± Duan Jingtian suddenlyughed out loud.

    However, hisughter sent chills down countless spines. It sounded like an evil ghost¡¯sugh; an eerie chill rose from the crowd¡¯s feet to their skulls.

    ¡°How many years has it been? How many years has it been since someone dared to injure me? Very good, Chen Fan. Not bad at all. You actually injured me and made me bleed! You deserve to die. You deserve a thousand deaths. Not even the gods can save your life!¡±

    A terrifying aura erupted from Duan Jingtian, sweeping the sun and the moon, shaking the heavens, and covering the sky. A terrifying martial pressure enveloped heaven and earth, suffocating the crowd.

    <i>Boom, boom, rumble!</i>

    It was as if an ancient furnace was hidden within Duan Jingtian, zing furiously at this moment. The earth-shaking noise it produced made everyone widen their eyes in shock.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura was boiling and burning.

    Rings of terrifying air currents radiated from him, waves of shocking aura erupting from his core. It felt as if an unrivaled ferocious beast had awakened, ready to destroy heaven and earth.

    And its first target was the one who awoke him: Chen Fan.

    A terrifying pressure suddenly descended, causing Chen Fan¡¯s hands and feet to go cold. He became stiff like a rod, and his irises shrunk rapidly.

    ¡°Ninth-level... Core Formation...¡±

    Suddenly, his gaze became extremely stern.

    A year ago, when Duan Jingtian was at the eighth level, the high elder had heavily injured him. Although the sect leader used profound methods to suppress his injuries, it seemed impossible for his cultivation to advance even slightly.

    This was the year the high elder had bought for him!

    However, as Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura erupted, shaking heaven and earth and surging violently, the crowd¡¯s scalps tingled. He was undoubtedly at the ninth level.

    In other words, during the past year, Duan Jingtian hadn''t just maintained his level. Instead, he had advanced remarkably, reaching the ninth level of the Core Formation realm.

    Duan Jingtian was an exceptional genius to begin with. With his terrifyingbat strength now elevated to a higher level, the prospect of him unleashing his full power was threatening.

    ¡°Ninth level? How is this possible?¡± The irises of Wei Buyu and the other grand elders belonging to the high elder¡¯s faction also shrunk violently. They were stunned.

    ¡°Haha, great, what a surprise. It¡¯s no wonder Duan Jingtian is so confident. So he has advanced to the next level! The high elder¡¯s methods didn¡¯t work. Chen Fan, that little beast, is dead for sure!¡±

    Like Wei Buyu and the others, even the merit elder¡¯s side was also stunned. However, they immediately startedughing maniacally, their expressions smug, as if they could already see Duan Jingtian killing Chen Fan.

    Exmations of shock, followed by the cheers of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members resounded throughout the central battlefield.

    ¡°Heavens! Senior Brother Duan Jingtian is actually at the ninth level! Scary, too scary!¡±

    ¡°Just his aura is suffocating me, even with the powerful boundaries between us. It feels like a ten-thousand-foot-tall mountain is pressing down on me.¡±

    ¡°Exactly! Now that Senior Brother Duan Jingtian has revealed his true strength, the oue of this battle is clear!¡±

    ¡°Haha, good, good, good, I knew it, Alliance Leader is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader is mighty!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Two figures stood high up in the sky, looking down.

    ¡°Senior Brother, it seems you¡¯ve lost this time,¡± said the sect leader, Feng Baiyu, faintly, as if this situation was within his expectations.

    The high elder furrowed his brow slightly but immediately eased them up. He said calmly, ¡°Looks like I¡¯m still underestimating this child.¡±

 Chapter 493 - How Do You Wish to Die?

    <h4>Chapter 493 - How Do You Wish to Die?</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan, are you afraid now? Are you trembling in fear? Feeling regret? Drowning in despair?!¡±

    Holding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura reached a terrifying peak. He was like a demonic god in the sky, looking down at the people and holding their fates in his fists.

    A terrifying pressure had shrouded Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s irises had shrunk. A fierce light flickered in his eyes as he said calmly, ¡°Duan Jingtian, so this is your trump card? The ninth level? It¡¯s indeed a little surprising.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, the high elder thought he could stop me by injuring me. He¡¯s too na?ve! I, Duan Jingtian, am a god among you mortals! I¡¯m destined to rule the world. Everyone and everything opposing me will be destroyed!¡± Duan Jingtian said with an unrivaled arrogant tone.

    ¡°What arrogance!¡± Chen Fan spat out coldly.

    Duan Jingtian waved his arm as a terrifying force danced around him, and his halberd seemed poised to destroy heaven and earth. His tone domineering and demeanor wild, he said, ¡°It¡¯s not arrogance if it¡¯s true!¡±

    A sharp light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, which had no fear in them. A towering aura burst out from him. His fighting spirit was high and his qi could swallow mountains and rivers.

    He pointed at Duan Jingtian with his spear and said, ¡°Cut the nonsense and fight. Show me just how powerful you are now. Let¡¯s see if your bite is as good as your bark.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, fine, I¡¯ll show you true excellence!¡± A cold light flickered in Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes. As his voice faded, he, too, disappeared.

    The space in front of Chen Fan suddenly distorted and shattered. A halberd light flew toward him as if summoned from the future.

    ¡°So fast!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s irises shrunk fiercely.

    Chen Fan felt a strong sense of crisis and promptly retreated.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Millisecondster, the Purgatory Divine Halberd attacked his original spot, unleashing a destructive force that annihted the void and created chaos.

    ¡°You¡¯re quite the runner!¡±

    Duan Jingtian reappeared on the scene, ncing at Chen Fan with a frigid gaze. Stepping forth, he rushed out like aet, his might enveloping the sky.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    As he swung his arm wildly, streaks of divine light erupted from the Purgatory Divine Halberd and took various forms. Some of them were murderous, some were forceful, some were intense, and some were imposing.

    Each streak of the divine light formed a domain, locking down the space to confine and kill Chen Fan.

    The crowd, which consisted of experts from the Yuanfu realm to the Core Formation realm, felt like time had slowed down; somehow, even their thoughts were sluggish, seemingly trapped in a bog.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Heaven and earth suddenly went dark, seemingly losing their light. Only the streaks of divine halberd light remained, vibrating like thunder, tearing through the darkness to kill.

    An invisible force restrained Chen Fan; simultaneously, a destructive force enveloped him, leaving him in utter despair. He could see his death, torn apart by the terrifying halberd lights, powerless to resist.

    It was too terrifying!

    This attack by Duan Jingtian shook his mind and will!

    ¡°No!¡± Chen Fan roared in fury, channeling his cultivation and summoning his strength desperately to break free. He stabilized his mind andunched a counterattack.

    ¡°Strength of Myriad Elephants, destroy for me!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously. An otherworldly space-time manifested behind him.

    <i>Rumble</i>. The sound of space being trampled echoed as ancient gigantic elephants charged. Their charge impacted heaven and earth and tore the darkness apart, allowing light to reappear.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan erupted with immense strength and thrust his spear, rupturing space-time.

    An iparably dazzling yet terrifying spear light rushed out. Within it, countless ancient wild elephants charged, making it seem like the spear light was a tunnel to an otherworldly space-time.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The divine halberd lights were obliterated and the attack continued toward Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian was astonished, as he hadn¡¯t thought that Chen Fan¡¯s arsenal still had such powerful attacks left. The attack had destroyed his attack and still had the power to st toward him.

    A surge of terrifying strength rushed toward him like ancient divine mountains crashing down, threatening to crush him into pieces.

    ¡°Purgatory Halberd Art, Mountains and Rivers Purgatory Transformation!¡± Duan Jingtian shouted fiercely, moving his Purgatory Divine Halberd again.

    Streaks of divine halberd light appeared, transforming into realms of hell filled with ghosts and spirits wailing in endless torment.

    Swinging his halberd, Duan Jingtian seemed to invoke the might of Purgatory itself. The attack crushed everything. As their attacks shed, the space-time shattered and the primal chaos was annihted.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    An earth-shaking rumble echoed for thousands of kilometers. The entire sect trembled. The earth cracked, and the boundaries of the central battlefield shattered like a mirror.

    ¡°Not good, the boundaries have shattered, quickly run!¡±

    The nearby crowd saw the boundaries break and a destructive aura burst, nearly annihting their souls. Everyone''s expressions changed as if the god of death was about to descend.

    However, just as they began to move, a terrifying force descended from the sky, enveloping the entire central battlefield and turning it into a prison.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    The debris from the shattered boundary of the central battlefield struck the invisible barrier, resounding loudly.

    The crowd sighed in relief, feeling as though they had just been saved from the brink of death.

    They realized that the sect leader had taken action, using his extraordinary power to stabilize the central battlefield¡¯s space, saving them from the devastating storm.

    Without this intervention, the nearby crowd would have been doomed by the storm generated by Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian¡¯s sh, leading to numerous injuries and deaths.

    The terrifying storm also engulfed Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian. Suddenly, a figure covered in blood flew out from the storm. They were covered in wounds, and their clothes were in tatters. They looked miserable.

    The crowd¡¯s irises shrunk violently at the sight, and their hearts beat intensely.

    It was Chen Fan!

    Had the victory and defeat been decided?

    Duan Jingtian emerged from the storm, his killing intent surging, shaking heaven and earth, and darkening the skies.

    ¡°Chen Fan, how do you wish to die?¡±

 Chapter 494 - Last Minute Breakthrough

    <h4>Chapter 494 - Last Minute Breakthrough</h4>

    Duan Jingtian sauntered out of the storm.

    ¡°Chen Fan, how do you wish to die?¡±

    The fierce storm couldn¡¯te within ten meters of him, as if that space was a forbidden zone.

    Wielding the divine halberd in hand, Duan Jingtian¡¯s aura was unparalleled. His voice shook the universe.

    Countless eyes were fixed on him, trembling.

    Indeed, the oue was clear.

    After Duan Jingtian revealed his true cultivation, the battle became one-sided. Chen Fan was outmatched and mercilessly crushed, left battered and bruised.

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t weak¡ªDuan Jingtian was just too strong. His strength could seemingly induce despair in anyone.

    ¡°Alliance Leader has won!¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Invincible! Invincible!¡±

    The alliance members jumped in excitement. Just as they had believed, their leader was a god among them mortals.

    He was unrivaled.

    What happened to that monstrous genius Chen Fan? He was crushed like an ant, left to regret his choices in front of Duan Jingtian.

    The merit elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others also looked ecstatic.

    Wei Buyu¡¯s camp, in stark contrast, appeared pale and lifeless, as if painted in shades of gray.

    Duan Jingtian approached slowly, the Purgatory Divine Halberd in his hand radiating divine light. With each step, the pressure on everyone grew; they felt a mounting weight on their hearts.

    Chen Fan was drenched in blood. His physique was as strong as a Grade-3 or Grade-4 treasure, yet Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack had shattered his Strength of Myriad Elephants. The ancient giant elephants roared as they disintegrated, and the otherworldly space-time shattered.

    A terrifying halberd light rushed over. It carried a berserk strength that tore Chen Fan¡¯s flesh open, leaving him a bloodied figure. It was a pitiful sight.

    The destructive force within the halberd light wreaked havoc inside him. If not for him suppressing and refining the force with the Heaven Seizing Furnace, his injuries would have been even worse. Nheless, the halberd strike had heavily wounded him.

    ¡°<i>Cough, cough</i>.¡± Chen Fan coughed, blood dripping from the corners of his mouth. He raised his head slightly, watching as Duan Jingtian slowly approached him. Chilling light gathered in his eyes.

    He had given everything he had, yet he lost to Duan Jingtian¡¯s halberd.

    Now, what should he do?

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression remained indifferent, showing no joy in victory.

    He advanced unhurriedly, like a hunter savoring the moment as his prey marinated in fear. He intended not only to kill Chen Fan but also to break his spirit, delivering a blow to him both physically and mentally.

    ¡°Anything else left? No? I could have killed you then, and I can still kill you now. Nothing has changed. You''ve always been nothing more than an ant I can crush at any moment.¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s icy voice resounded.

    ¡°You thought you could defeat me after advancing to the eighth level? To think you were this foolish and na?ve... I, Duan Jingtian, am a god among men. An ant like you dares to provoke me? You¡¯re truly courting death!¡±

    With every step, Duan Jingtian spoke, aiming to break Chen Fan¡¯s spirit with his words.

    Chen Fan remained impassive, the chilling light in his eyes growing deeper. He slowly stood up straight and looked at Duan Jingtian with an icy gaze. He took a deep breath and shouted, ¡°Open!¡±

    An earth-shaking aura burst from Chen Fan, shaking the area.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan lifted his leg and took a step forward.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    With each step, his aura grew fiercer and more intense.

    One step, two steps, three steps...

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura grew increasingly stronger, like boiling water, causing the entire space to tremble.

    This scene left the crowd in disbelief.

    <i>Does Chen Fan still have a trump card left to turn the situation around?</i>

    Duan Jingtian paused. He sensed the powerful aura erupting from Chen Fan, and he frowned, eyes flickering with a stern light.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, trying to be mysterious. I¡¯ll send you on your way now!¡±

    A bad premonition surfaced in Duan Jingtian¡¯s mind. Narrowing his eyes, he shot forward with icy killing intent, leaving several afterimages. He appeared in front of Chen Fan in a sh.

    Purgatory manifested on the tip of his halberd. Wrapped with terrifying strength, Duan Jingtian stabbed it toward Chen Fan¡¯s head, hoping to end him once and for all.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± However, Chen Fan suddenly roared toward the sky. His aura peaked instantly.

    He punched out fiercely. A terrifying fist light appeared as if to shatter the universe, colliding with Duan Jingtian¡¯s Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan roared, his voice shaking the sky.

    His terrifying strength smashed the oing Purgatory to bits. A river of power manifested, mming into Duan Jingtian and making his protective true primeval shield explode.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Duan Jingtian was sent flying back, spewing blood repeatedly as he tumbled.

    Chen Fan did not give chase. He roared to the skies once more, his aura booming like a flood. Monstrous waves of energy shot out in all directions.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s happening to Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°Is he breaking through in his cultivation?¡±

    The crowd was astonished, their faces full of doubts.

    Chen Fan had been at an absolute disadvantage, on the verge of being killed by Duan Jingtian. However, he suddenly burst forth with a surge in power, destroying Duan Jingtian¡¯s killing move in one punch and sending him flying.

    This stunned everyone. They couldn¡¯t believe what they had seen.

    Rolling sound waves burst out from Chen Fan¡¯s mouth, tearing the air apart. His aura reached a pinnacle, and a terrifying pressure erupted from him.

    This pressure did not stem from his cultivation but from his physique.

    It turns out that Chen Fan¡¯s Myriad Elephants Divine Art had advanced to the fourteenthyer. He had long since reached the peak of the thirteenthyer and had failed to reach the fourteenth¡ªuntil now.

    However, under the pressure of death earlier, Chen Fan had broken free of the shackles andpleted his metamorphosis.

    ¡°Hahaha, hahaha!¡±

    A surge of strength flowed inside him. Chen Fan felt like he could now shatter an ancient divine mountain with a punch and kill a high-level Core Formation realm martial artist with a flick of his finger.

    ¡°Good, very good. Duan Jingtian, the battle has just begun!¡± Chen Fan kicked off fiercely. With a rumble, the air exploded as he instantly soared out.

    <i>Rumble.</i>

    His terrifying speed tore the air apart, producing a thunderous sound. It was as if the sun was violently crashing toward Duan Jingtian.

 Chapter 495 - Battling to the Point of Insanity

    <h4>Chapter 495 - Battling to the Point of Insanity</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s sudden terrifying outburst stunned everyone.

    The crowd held their breath as they saw Chen Fan charging at Duan Jingtian like a zing sun, their eyes wide with disbelief.

    Duan Jingtian, bleeding from multiple wounds, steadied himself. As he raised his head, he sensed an overwhelming pressure descending upon him, like an ancient ferocious beast charging at him.

    His irises shrank violently. A fierce look shone in his eyes as he channeled his cultivation furiously, summoning a shocking aura again. Wielding the divine halberd, he charged over. As he swung his weapon, numerous halberd lights annihted everything in their path.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Chen Fan stabbed his spear violently, his terrifying strength within him erupting as he willed it. Every thrust of his spear shook the heavens and made the ghosts and the spirits weep. His immense power rattled Duan Jingtian¡¯s qi and blood.

    ¡°Heaven Piercing Thrust!¡±

    A sacred light spread across the universe. An ocean of light descended from the void, transforming into an earth-shattering stab. Even the heavens seemed ready to crack open under this spear.

    Duan Jingtian instantly caught a whiff of the deadly crisis. His irises shrank violently, but he wasn¡¯t willing to show any signs of weakness. He channeled his energy furiously, and with a sweep of his arm, he shouted, ¡°Purgatory Halberd Art, Purgatory Opens the Sky!¡±

    Heaven and earth rumbled.

    A wisp of light erupted within the primal chaos, directly splitting it apart. The elements floated and sank, resembling the scene of the world''s creation.

    This halberd contained the terrifying strength to split heaven and earth.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Following a loud noise, the crowd saw something that they would never forget. Chen Fan¡¯s spear directly annihted the primal chaos. With the primal chaos gone, how could heaven and earth be split?[1]

    The terrifying spear light shattered everything before smashing into Duan Jingtian¡¯s chest.

    The immense force seeped into him, causing a series of explosions. Duan Jingtian instantly became a bloody mess, covered in fresh blood from head to toe.

    Forced back and gravely injured, a hideous expression appeared on Duan Jingtian¡¯s face. He wed randomly and roared furiously, sending chills down people¡¯s spines. ¡°How could this happen? What happened to your strength? Why are you so powerful!¡±

    The crowd could clearly hear the fear in Duan Jingtian¡¯s voice.

    As Duan Jingtian retreated, he executed a desperate killing technique. Streaks of divine halberd light tore through the skies like dragons and snakes dancing, locked onto Chen Fan, and flew toward him.

    <i>C!</i>

    A shocking light rushed into the sky, nearly making thes drop. The surroundings transformed into chaos, tearing Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack into shreds.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Chaotic ringing and explosions rang in space.

    Heaven and earth fell silent.

    The crowd looked at the central battlefield, petrified. None of them came back to their senses.

    The state of battle had changed too quickly. Duan Jingtian had gained the upper hand, but suddenly found himself at an absolute disadvantage, looking miserable from Chen Fan¡¯s attacks. Not a hint of his invincible image from before could be seen.

    Chen Fan stood proudly in the air, holding his iron spear. The sound of his qi and blood surging was like the roars of the Yangtze River, with the strength to pull down mountains and rivers. His aura was unrivaled¡ªhe was like an immortal who had descended into the world.

    Duan Jingtian retreated several thousand meters, bleeding along the way. He finally steadied himself and channeled his qi to suppress his injuries. He looked up at Chen Fan, revealing cold killing intent.

    ¡°Die!¡± Duan Jingtian spat out an icy note.

    He had already given all he had. He would never allow himself to fail, much less allow himself to be defeated by Chen Fan.

    He must kill Chen Fan!

    He was Duan Jingtian, a god among these mortals¡ªan existence who would never lose!

    He held the powerful Purgatory Divine Halberd in his hand, emitting eerie halberd light. A chilling light shone from the crescent moon-like de, wrapped in countless wronged souls of immortal spirits. Its surface was covered in traces of blood, left behind by the powerful existences he had put to death.

    Dragon, Taotie, Qilin, Pixiu, [2] and other divine beasts were on the halberd. Purgatory materialized as he waved the halberd, breaking through the space. Ghosts wailed and gods howled. Countless phenomena materialized and transformed like a fleeting scenery behind him.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    When had Chen Fan feared fighting?

    He was also powerful beyond words. He channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the limit. An otherworldly space-time followed at his back, and he was constantly generating tremendous strength. The surrounding space tore apart with the slightest movement of his arm.

    His attack was swift and fierce, imposing and majestic, piercing through the void like a deity of death harvesting souls. The light of dusk was like the final splendor of life.

    The crowd felt like they were gazing at the evening sun. It was infinitely beautiful, but an ancient god of war emerged, thrusting an iron spear toward that zing twilight sun.

    <i>Pop!</i>

    The iron spear pierced through the twilight sun, casting thend into darkness once more.

    Duan Jingtian poured everything he had into this fight, and so did Chen Fan.

    Neither had a path of retreat now. Their fight had reached its climax, demanding a victor, and possibly determining their fates.

    Both fighters unleashed every ounce of their strength, no longer holding anything back. Every move they made contained tremendous power that could shatter the stars and disrupt the fabric of time and space.

    The terrifying qi currents surged like the Yangtze River in the void, crashing, destroying, and killing.

    It was the twilight of doom, a battle between two titans resembling a final sh of almighty gods.

    ¡°Purgatory Halberd Art, die, die, die!¡± Duan Jingtian shouted furiously. Wounds appeared on him one after another, blood flowing freely, yet he seemed oblivious, lost in a frenzy of strikes. Streaks of destructive halberd light swept across the sky.

    ¡°Strength of Myriad Elephants, annihte, annihte, annihte!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s long hair flew wildly as his aura surged into the sky.

    He also ignored his injuries and attacked crazily. Streaks of spear light whisked across the sky, shattering thews of nature and releasing destructive fluctuations.

    Everyone watched in awe with bated breath, forgetting to think.

    The entire world was seemingly focusing on Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian, exchanging blows and shing madly.

    Their sh destroyed the space, tore the earth apart, shook thends, and turned the sky on its head.

    The two fought from the skies to the ground and back again, the central battlefield consumed by their destructive sh. If their unleashed power broke free, it could level the entire Spring Autumn Sect.

    Both fought with reckless abandon, consumed only by the desire to defeat and kill the other.

    ¡°Ahhh, damn it, damn it, die! I¡¯ll kill you in one blow!¡± Duan Jingtian roared furiously, thrusting forth his Purgatory Divine Halberd once more. His wounds did not hinder him; he swiftly closed the distance to Chen Fan.

    Duan Jingtian gathered his strength on the Purgatory Divine Halberd. He suddenly leaped higher into the sky, like a divine dragon crossing the sky or a whale emerging from the sea, and hurtled down with the force to rend the heavens.

    It resembled an ancient deity moving mountains to crush the earth ruthlessly¡ªsuch was the awe-inspiring might of Duan Jingtian.

    Chen Fan remained unmoved, standing on the spot like a towering mountain.

    A surge of strength rose within him and rushed into the sky. Gripping his iron spear like a pir, he seemed to uphold the heavens and earth themselves.

    1. It refers to the Chinese mythology of how heaven and earth came to be. The world was in a state of primal chaos at the beginning of time and somehow split into heaven and earth, achieving bnce. ?

    2. Taotie is an ancient Chinese mythological creature that wasmonly emzoned on bronze and other artifacts during the 1st millennium BC. Taotie are one of the "four evil creatures of the world¡±. Pixiu is a Chinese mythical hybrid creature. Pixiu are considered powerful protectors of the souls of the dead, xian, and feng shui practitioners, and resemble strong, winged lions. ?

 Chapter 496 - Qi Swallows the Sky

    <h4>Chapter 496 - Qi Swallows the Sky</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Carrying the power to destroy the universe, Chen Fan¡¯s spear struck the Purgatory Divine Halberd. It produced an iparably terrifying explosion that left thends shaking and the mountains swaying.

    Space-time itself went through cycles of birth and destruction.

    Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian fought with insane intensity, unleashing their full strength. They pushed their potential to erupt with even more terrifying power in their frenzied sh.

    Space-time was copsing, and the fabric of space was being destroyed.

    The central battlefield had be and of destruction. Anyone who entered would be wiped out by the devastating storm.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The two were drenched in blood, heavier than mercury, spilling into the air, creating a tragic sight.

    Both could be considered peerless monsters, possessing seemingly unrivaled might.

    Sharply opposed, their powers erupted to the limit, neither willing to give an inch. They had a single thought: to kill the other.

    The spectating crowd had long since frozen in a daze.

    Watching their exchange of blows was like witnessing gods shing. Every move carried the strength to destroy heaven and earth, shatter the void, and descend into the world.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Each sessive sh surpassed the harrowing nature of thest.

    Duan Jingtian approached Chen Fan with immense divine might like an ancient god. He struck out with his halberd, seemingly trying to transform the world into Purgatory itself.

    Chen Fan showed no fear at all. Terrifying strength coursed through him, making him seem three inches taller, like a heavenly god from ancient times. He wielded his divine spear like he had traversed space and time to y the demonic god spreading chaos in the world.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A terrifying force broke Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack. The enormous strength passed through the Purgatory Divine Halberd and instantly reached him, clobbering his flesh and blood. His tall figure was thrown across the sky, causing an explosion in the air. He flew five kilometers before barely managing to stop.

    The crowd was stunned. The fight was too intense and too scary, far exceeding the strength limits of Core Formation realm martial artists.

    The crowd murmured among themselves, their feelings iparablyplicated.

    ¡°Are those two really human martial artists? We sure about that? Is this not a sh between two gods?¡±

    ¡°Heaven falls, earth ends, and the universe is destroyed. They are too terrifying.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan seems a bit stronger; he¡¯s firmly suppressing Duan Jingtian. Perhaps the title of the number one holy disciple is about to change hands? Is the Spring Autumn Sect about to enter an era where Chen Fan has the world in his grasp?"

    Duan Jingtian was a legend of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Countless disciples viewed Duan Jingtian as their idol. No one ever thought that a disciple within the Spring Autumn Sect would exchange blows with him and not die immediately.

    However, with the battle reaching its final stages and with Chen Fan¡¯s great reversal, anyone could tell that Duan Jingtian was about to lose.

    ¡°Impossible, it¡¯spletely impossible! Our Alliance Leader is invincible! He will never lose!¡±

    ¡°Alliance Leader is invincible! Alliance Leader is undefeatable!¡±

    The alliance members roared, their eyes bloodshot, as they looked at the bloodied and battered Duan Jingtian. They just couldn¡¯t believe that their leader, someone they thought was a god, looked so miserable.

    Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others¡¯plexions also turned pale, fearing the grim fate awaiting them if Duan Jingtian were defeated.

    Chen Fan, indifferent to their thoughts, charged forward with his iron spear. He crossed the sky step by step as if the space had shrunk to an inch; in a single breath, he caught up to Duan Jingtian. The iron spear in his hand transformed into a dragon, its icy light piercing through the void, aiming violently at Duan Jingtian.

    Duan Jingtian looked up, his gaze sharp as a de, causing others to shudder. He channeled his qi and struck out again. His halberd radiated killing intent as he shed it at Chen Fan.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two collided fiercely once more. A terrifying force swept out, the impact generating a massive vacuum. The air currents were also scattered and fragmented.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, what more do you have to say now?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s might was invincible. His aura reached the clouds, and he was like an indomitable god of war. He strode forth with ferocious steps in the air, approaching Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Damn it, damn it, truly! Chen Fan, I¡¯ve truly underestimated you. I didn¡¯t expect you to have such impressivebat power. Damn it!¡± Duan Jingtian roared furiously. Despite being drenched in blood, his aura was as domineering as ever and his moves were iparably swift and fierce.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, so this is your final wail before death?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, sweeping the iron spear horizontally and destroying everything in its path. The terrifying force swept across the space, causing Duan Jingtian to spill blood and retreat.

    ¡°<i>Ah</i>! Damn it, I must kill you, definitely!¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s eyes burned with raging mes. His boundless anger gained substance, his terrifying killing intent sweeping out continuously.

    ¡°Come ept your death, Chen Fan! Universe Destroying Halberd!¡± Duan Jingtian closed in, took a big step, and stabbed furiously with the Purgatory Divine Halberd. Densely packed pitch-ck cracks appeared in space. He was aiming topletely overturn the situation by suppressing the universe and killing Chen Fan.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, nothing but an arrow at the end of its flight. Duan Jingtian, it¡¯s time for this battle to end. It¡¯s also time for this feud between us to reach its conclusion. Your legend will end here. Face your defeat!¡±

    Facing Duan Jingtian¡¯s attack that wasunched by igniting his life force, Chen Fan did not try to dodge. He channeled all the qi inside him to the extreme, his aura capable of shattering space. His aura could simply shatter the space. All of his strength was turned into the strongest thrust.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying noise swept out like the waves. Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian collided violently, bringing about an enormous explosion as if the universe was destroyed.

    Rays of light, more dazzling than the sun, shed across the battlefield, blinding everyone and forcing them to shut their eyes.

    Miserable screams rang out one after another. It turned out some people were nearly blinded by this terrifying sh.

    That destructive storm instantly smashed into the spatial barrier that the sect leader hadid down. Cracking noises immediately rang out, causing the people¡¯s scalps to turn numb.

    That was a spatial barrierid down by a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse with their almighty method, yet the impact had cracked it.

    Although it did not shatter, the cracks alone were enough to leave the people dumbfounded and shocked beyond words.

    It spoke volumes about the strength of the two fighters. The waves alone could kill Core Formation realm experts at the eighth or ninth level.

    Deafening explosions rumbled like thunder, ringing non-stop.

    That dazzling light did not fade even after a long time. Everyone held their breath, tense.

    They all knew that this was the strongest collision between the two. This collision would probably bring an end to the battle.

 Chapter 497 - Saved by the Sect Leader

    <h4>Chapter 497 - Saved by the Sect Leader</h4>

    The blinding light and storm produced by their terrifying, earth-shaking collision covered the entire central battlefield. The crowd couldn¡¯t see the situation inside, so they could only wait in silence.

    However, everyone knew that the huge battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian would most likely conclude after this collision.

    Would Duan Jingtian continue to reign supreme, or would the rising force that was Chen Fan rece him, bringing an end to his era?

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The rolling storm continued to rage, spreading outwards.

    The rumbling noise, like constant thunder, echoed non-stop, as if booming right next to the crowd¡¯s ears.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Amidst the endless explosions, an extremely sharp noise suddenly rang out.

    Next, the crowd saw a figure shoot into the sky.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Following a ground-shaking wave, the crowd saw Duan Jingtian nailed to the ground on the devastated battlefield by the iron spear. Shock washed over them.

    An explosion rang in everyone¡¯s minds. Their thoughts went nk as if their souls had blown up.

    ¡°This...¡±

    Everyone was in shock.

    They saw Duan Jingtian nailed to the ground like a dead dog. The impact of this sight made their worldview crumble.

    That rang especially true for the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Every one of them instantly aged by twenty to thirty years, as if all their strength had been drained. They trembled all over, like eggnts damaged by frost, shaking with fear.

    The oue of the battle was clear.

    As the storm gradually calmed and the dazzling light slowly faded, a faint figure emerged from the chaos.

    It was Chen Fan.

    He tightly held the Purgatory Divine Halberd with one hand, its tip piercing him.

    Chen Fan had nailed Duan Jingtian to the ground with his spear, while Duan Jingtian pierced him with the halberd.

    The crowd stared fixedly at Chen Fan, unsure of his condition.

    Although Chen Fan remained standing in the air, he was unmoving, leaving everyone uncertain about his status.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan moved.

    He pulled out the Purgatory Divine Halberd in one go. Fresh blood spattered, but he paid no mind to it as he gazed downwards coldly.

    In the end, he emerged victorious in this battle.

    Witnessing this scene, everyone present erupted into amotion.

    The entire Spring Autumn Sect went crazy, the murmurs of discussions reaching the clouds.

    ¡°The battle is decided! Duan Jingtian... has lost!¡±

    ¡°How truly unexpected. The winner turned out to be Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°The new generation reces the old. The new wave of the sea pushes the tide forward. Chen Fan, what a monster!¡±

    ¡°What a pity. Duan Jingtian, a genius of a generation, is about to be history. Having lost, he¡¯s destined to die here!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Having reigned over the Spring Autumn Sect for over a decade, Duan Jingtian¡¯s legend would finally end today. The person who brought about his demise was none other than Chen Fan, whom Duan Jingtian had ruthlessly humiliated three years ago.

    Back then, Chen Fan swore to the heavens that he would fight Duan Jingtian to the death in three years to wash his shame away. None had taken Chen Fan seriously. Everyone thought he was delusional, overestimating his abilities, and seeking attention.

    However, in less than three years, Chen Fan proved them all wrong. He ruthlessly demonstrated his strength by nailing the almighty Duan Jingtian to the pir of shame, washing away his past humiliation.

    The tide changed with time; one should never bully the young.

    Chen Fan fulfilled the oath he made with his actions.

    ¡°He lost. How could the Alliance Leader lose? How could he lose?¡±

    Some of the Heaven¡¯s Alliance members couldn¡¯t ept the truth. Their dedication to the martial path crumbled, causing them to spew fresh blood and experience qi deviation. Some even burst into mes and turned to ashes.

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe this. I don¡¯t believe this! It¡¯s fake, none of this is real!¡±

    Some people went crazy and ran out.

    ¡°<i>Boohoo, boohoo</i>, how could he lose? The Alliance Leader is a god. A god among us mortals! A god would never lose!¡±

    Even more Heaven¡¯s Alliance members covered their faces and wept.

    Chen Fan had crushed their spiritual leader with his spear. Their mindspletely crumbled.

    Countless gazes fell onto the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance. Some gloated at their misfortune, while some couldn¡¯t bear to look at them.

    ¡°He lost. How could he lose?¡±

    Merit Elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others felt their mouths turning dry. Their eyes were unfocused, mumbling under their breaths, dispirited.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s defeat was a devastating blow to them. What would they do when Chen Fan came to settle scores?

    On the other hand, Wei Buyu and the others let out a long sigh of relief, showing a trace of joy on their faces.

    ¡°<i>Phew</i>, he won.¡±

    This huge battle was full of ups and downs.

    Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian disyed the full extent of their capabilities, using all their trump cards and going all out. The fight was incredibly shocking and tragic.

    In the end, Chen Fan¡¯s skills proved superior, defeating the insufferably arrogant Duan Jingtian.

    ......

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, what do you have to say now? When you oppressed me three years ago, did you ever think a day like this woulde? Nailed to the ground by my spear like a dead dog?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice rang out.

    Although Duan Jingtian was pinned to the ground, he was not dead yet.

    ¡°I am Duan Jingtian. How could I lose?¡±

    He was Duan Jingtian, a self-proimed god in the world. He believed the entire Spring Autumn Sect should submit to him. But now, all his glory was lost. All his capabilities were suppressed by Chen Fan.

    Raging mes burned in his heart, futile against his defeat.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, not only will you lose, but you will also die, and it will be by my hands. Alright, I won¡¯t bother wasting my breath on you any longer. I¡¯ll send you on your way now!¡±

    As his voice fell, Chen Fan swooped down, wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, stabbing toward Duan Jingtian.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Just as Duan Jingtian was about to perish, an enormous palm emerged from the void, bearing the aura of a Divine Nascent realm. It seized the Purgatory Divine Halberd thrust by Chen Fan.

    ¡°Sect Leader!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t need to look to recognize the owner of the enormous palm¡ªit belonged to Feng Baiyu, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s sect leader. With Duan Jingtian on the brink of death, the sect leader finally intervened.

    The entire space was frozen at his intervention. Despite Chen Fan¡¯s incredible strength, he was still like an ant in front of a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.

    A Divine Nascent realm powerhouse could easily channel the primeval qi of heaven and earth and turn them into a means of attack.

    He mobilized the primeval qi of heaven and earth in the area, forming a prison to confine Chen Fan. Thetter was unable to break through it at all.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Even so, it went without saying that Chen Fan felt very indignant about it. Immense anger surged in his heart.

    Suddenly, he made the small golden person hiding in the depths of his be move, erupting with supreme pressure, breaking free from Feng Baiyu¡¯s confining method at once.

    ¡°No one can save someone that I, Chen Fan, want to kill!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were filled with murderous intent as he swooped down once more. He thrust toward Duan Jingtian with an earth-shaking icy killing intent in his attack.

 Chapter 498 - Kneel Down and Beg for Mercy

    <h4>Chapter 498 - Kneel Down and Beg for Mercy</h4>

    An icy cold shout rang from the void. Immediately, the entire central battlefield surged like a gathering storm.

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    Chen Fan breaking free of his confines was also out of Feng Baiyu¡¯s expectations. This was simply unthinkable. After all, he was a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.

    Cracking noises rang out as the space froze. A terrifying aura erupted from the void in the air, freezing the space.

    It was the Heavenly Cold Winter God Force, the most prominent but forbidden secret of the Spring Autumn Sect, an unparalleled cultivation technique only the sect leader was allowed to learn.

    A chilling intent erupted, sweeping across the skies and covering heaven and earth.

    Immediately, Chen Fan felt as if he was stuck in ice. Moving even an inch seemed impossible.

    ¡°Feng Baiyu, you¡¯ve crossed the line!¡± Another authoritative voice resounded. The frozen space began melting like the spring breeze and rain. Cracking noises rang out again.

    The pressure acting on Chen Fan declined greatly. He quickly swooped down with a vicious gaze, wanting to kill Duan Jingtian.

    However, during this split second, a gigantic hand grabbed Duan Jingtian and rose to the skies, about to vanish into the void.

    ¡°High Elder!¡± Seeing as his efforts were in vain, Chen Fan roared.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Feng Baiyu, your hands are reaching where they shouldn''t.¡± The High Elder¡¯s icy voice rang out, carrying a trace of anger. The winds and clouds immediately changed colors as if the lord of heaven was roaring furiously. A divine light appeared out of thin air, striking the gigantic hand.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The immense force pierced through space-time, sealing arge area of the sky. With a rumble, the gigantic hand crumbled, and Duan Jingtian flew out like a broken bup sack.

    Before Chen Fan could seize the opportunity, Feng Baiyu revealed himself from the depths of space, grabbed at the air, and caught Duan Jingtian once more before setting him down. He confined Duan Jingtian to his side, looking at Chen Fan with an icy gaze.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯ve seized total victory today. One should let people off wherever possible. Spare Duan Jingtian¡¯s life on my ount.¡±

    Duan Jingtian remained silent, sitting cross-legged as he channeled his qi to recover, now that he knew he was safe.

    ¡°What do you mean by that, Sect Leader? This is a life-and-death battle. Countless people bore witness to this. If I were no match for him, then I would have epted death withoutints. Why are you stepping in to save Duan Jingtian!¡± Chen Fan looked at Feng Baiyu coldly, filled with killing intent.

    ¡°Feng Baiyu, Chen Fan is right. They entered a life-and-death battle voluntarily. Their life and death are up to fate. I wouldn¡¯t have intervened if Chen Fan lost. You, as the sect leader, tantly broke the rules and intervened at will. What is the meaning of this?¡±

    The high elder, Yun Tu, also revealed himself, his icy gaze falling onto Feng Baiyu.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡± Feng Baiyu sighed and said, ¡°Hatred has clouded your mind. You even showed killing intent toward me. Let alone the fact that you can¡¯t act on it, what grudges do we have between us?¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, stopping me from killing Duan Jingtian has created an irreconcble grudge!¡± Chen Fan held his iron spear vertically, his tone calm yet filled with undisguised killing intent toward Feng Baiyu. The atmosphere was charged with tension, shaking everyone.

    ¡°Insolence! How audacious! You treacherous demon, how dare you show killing intent toward the sect leader! You¡¯ve already fallen into demonic ways and are a danger to the world. Sect Leader, we mustn¡¯t leave this little demon alive. He needs to be killed immediately!¡± shouted the merit elder.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered with a clown like the merit elder, so he kept his gaze trained on Feng Baiyu.

    ¡°What if I pass on the position of Sect Leader to you right now?¡± Feng Baiyu said, his gaze flickering.

    ¡°Haha, Sect Leader, who else does it belong to? Duan Jingtian? He¡¯s nothing but trash! I don¡¯t need you to pass on the position to me. When I advance to the Divine Nascent realm, the position will naturally be mine,¡± Chen Fan said with a cold smile, causing Feng Baiyu¡¯s irises to contract.

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples collectively gasped.

    ¡°Move aside, Feng Baiyu. Your intervention is against the rules. If you insist on shielding Duan Jingtian, then I have no choice but to step in as well,¡± said the high elder coldly.

    Duan Jingtian was a significant threat that needed to be removed immediately.

    ¡°Senior Brother, let¡¯s end this matter here. What good does it do to the Spring Autumn Sect if Duan Jingtian dies? Not only is there nothing to be gained, but it will be a huge loss for us to lose an exceptional genius.

    ¡°The Grand Sect Conference is nearly upon us. Moreover, the power structure of the Hong Domain is starting to shift with the demonic beings bing restless. Our Spring Autumn Sect needs Duan Jingtian alive. He can¡¯t die.

    ¡°Chen Fan, although the feud between you and Duan Jingtian is a result of his mistake, if it wasn¡¯t for me back then, you would have died long ago. Do you acknowledge this?

    Chen Fan looked at Feng Baiyu. After a moment of silence, he said, ¡°Indeed. I would have died if you hadn¡¯t stopped him.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then I¡¯ll protect Duan Jingtian this once today. I can promise that Duan Jingtian will never find trouble with you in the future,¡± Feng Baiyu said.

    Everyone was stunned. No one had expected the sect leader to plead for mercy from a disciple.

    Chen Fan fell into silence once more.

    If he insisted on killing Duan Jingtian, Feng Baiyu would shield him to the bitter end.

    Even with the High Elder stepping in, sess wasn''t guaranteed, and it would result in aplete fallout with Feng Baiyu.

    ¡°Fine, I can do you this favor, Sect Leader. However, if Duan Jingtian wants to live, he has to kneel and beg for mercy!¡±

    Chen Fan ultimately took a step back, as he couldn¡¯t kill him with Feng Baiyu around. However, he couldn¡¯t let Duan Jingtian go so easily. He needed to humiliate him ruthlessly and nt a demon in his heart.

    Duan Jingtian immediately stopped his recovery and looked at Chen Fan with an icy gaze. The demand to kneel and beg for mercy was harder to ept than death.

    His expression twisted drastically, looking at Feng Baiyu.

    ¡°Sect Leader...¡±

    He didn¡¯t want to die, but he didn¡¯t want to beg Chen Fan for mercy even more.

    Feng Baiyu met Chen Fan¡¯s gaze. After a moment of silence, he said, ¡°Fine.¡±

    ¡°Master!¡± Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression darkened further.

    ¡°Go!¡± Feng Baiyu said sternly, ¡°If you want to choose death, then do as you please!¡±

    Duan Jingtian trembled all over, hisplexion pale. He knew that Feng Baiyu had given in.

    Although Feng Baiyu was the sect leader and a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, ensuring Chen Fan couldn¡¯t do a thing to him, the high elder was here as well. If Feng Baiyu didn¡¯t agree to it, Chen Fan would not let things go just like that.

    Duan Jingtian gritted his teeth hard, producing a crunching noise from crushing his tooth. He wished to smash his head and kill himself in front of the crowd.

    However, living disgracefully was better than a good death.

    If he was alive, he could still take revenge.

    If he died, then everything would be over. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

 Chapter 499 - End of a Legend

    <h4>Chapter 499 - End of a Legend</h4>

    Duan Jingtian stepped forward with great difficulty, trembling. He clenched his fists and gritted his teeth.

    If he wanted to survive, he had to humble himself to the point of kneeling and begging Chen Fan for mercy.

    Once, he had oppressed Chen Fan with overwhelming power, forcing him to kneel.

    Now, in a cruel twist of fate, he had to kneel before Chen Fan and beg for his life. The stark contrast filled him with such grief and revulsion that he wanted to die.

    If he knelt, then his prestige wouldpletely vanish. When word spread, he would be aughingstock.

    However, if he refused to kneel, he would die.

    He didn¡¯t want to die!

    If he died, how would he avenge himself and erase today¡¯s humiliation?

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Ultimately, Duan Jingtian knelt with his head lowered, hiding his expression. However, the crowd could imagine his face filled with grief and indignation.

    As he knelt, the members of Heaven¡¯s Alliance also felt their world copsing. The image of Duan Jingtian¡¯s godly figure shattered into pieces.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I beg... you to... please spare my life!¡±

    Those words came out of Duan Jingtian¡¯s mouth with great difficulty. Everyone could hear the immense indignation and intense hatred in his voice.

    Duan Jingtian did not wait for Chen Fan¡¯s reply. He immediately stood up and leaped, vanishing from the central battlefield.

    Today marked the greatest humiliation of his life; he could no longer bear to stay and endure the mocking gazes of the crowd.

    Seeing Duan Jingtian leave as if fleeing, countless Spring Autumn Sect disciples felt an inexplicable relief in their hearts as if a shackle had loosened. The invisible mountain pressing down on them had crumbled.

    No one dared provoke him, knowing it was akin to courting death.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s domineering nature, his disregard for rules, and his boundless tyranny had made him a figure of awe and fear. Those who followed him thrived, while those who opposed him perished. He was revered and feared like a god.

    But when Duan Jingtian knelt and begged for mercy, that shackle, that mountain, crumbled.

    His act of kneeling signaled the end of his legend, the end of his era.

    Countless Spring Autumn Sect disciples murmured among themselves.

    ¡°The end of an era, and the end of a legend. From now on, the Spring Autumn Sect will enter an era that belongs to Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is better than Duan Jingtian. Duan Jingtian is too domineering; anyone who opposes him will die. With Chen Fan, as long as we don¡¯t provoke him, things are much better.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I felt relief the moment Duan Jingtian knelt.¡±

    ¡°Not only will our sect enter a new era, but we will also have a fresh start.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Duan Jingtian had deeply established his prestige in the Spring Autumn Sect. Many viewed him with awe and fear, almost like a god, which blocked their progress in martial arts. Now that this huge mountain had crumbled, their minds felt lighter and their hearts for martial arts were cleared.

    Of course, while some rejoiced, some mourned.

    The alliance members were all dispirited. Their spiritual pir had crumbled, and their mental states had shattered. Now, they were left wondering where they fit in the Spring Autumn Sect.

    In the past, Duan Jingtian''s overwhelming strength had suppressed the sect, forcing countless disciples to submit, and allowing Heaven¡¯s Alliance members to act arrogantly and oppress many.

    Now that his legend had ended, even though Chen Fan had spared his life, the Heaven¡¯s Alliance was effectively finished. No one would fear Duan Jingtian anymore.

    Moreover, Duan Jingtian would likely lose the heart to continue managing the alliance. Their future looked bleak.

    Feng Baiyu took a deep look at Chen Fan, turned around, and also vanished.

    ¡°Haha, good, Chen Fan! You¡¯ve truly given me a huge surprise! I didn¡¯t expect you to defeat Duan Jingtian. Hahaha, good, very good!¡± The high elder looked at Chen Fan with a big smile.

    ¡°Many thanks for stepping in.¡± Chen Fan thanked the high elder.

    The high elder waved his hand and said, ¡°No need for thanks. This is only something I should have done.¡±

    Wei Buyu and the other members of the high elder¡¯s faction flew over with excited looks on their faces.

    The merit elder, Elder Liehuo, and the others¡¯ expressions darkened at the sight, their gazes containing traces of shock.

    They had bet everything on Duan Jingtian for a better future for themselves, but with Chen Fan¡¯s victory, the high elder¡¯s faction won the struggle between the two major factions.

    More importantly, the trio had plotted to lure Chen Fan out to intercept and kill him. Chen Fan had said that he would settle the scores in time. Could they possibly hide?

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±

    The merit elder, Elder Liehuo, and Chen Muyang immediately took to the skies, wanting to leave.

    However, an icy voice rang out. ¡°Merit Elder, Liehuo, Chen Muyang, where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±

    The mes of anger in Chen Fan¡¯s heart had yet to dissipate. With Feng Baiyu shielding Duan Jingtian, Chen Fan failed to kill him. So, he couldn¡¯t let the three elders escape.

    The trio¡¯s expressions changed drastically, and they immediately tried to flee quicker.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, thinking of leaving? Stay here, all of you! You old coots probably remember what I said. It¡¯s time to settle scores with you now that I¡¯ve defeated Duan Jingtian!¡±

    Chen Fan grabbed at the air. Immediately, a stream of qi ripped through the sky, enveloping the three and bringing them to the central battlefield.

    ¡°Chen Fan, what are you trying to do?¡± The merit elder and the others were shocked.

    As soon as the three reached the ground, they felt the surrounding space being sealed. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn''t escape.

    ¡°What am I trying to do?¡± Chen Fan walked over step by step and said, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m going to ughter you three. Duan Jingtian is protected by the sect leader, but you¡¯re not! You should have expected a day like this when you schemed to lure me out of the sect and tried to kill me!

    ¡°I have yet to vent the anger in my heart. Since I can¡¯t kill him, I¡¯ll ughter you three! No matter what, I must kill some people today!

    ¡°Since I defeated Duan Jingtian today, there¡¯s nothing much to say. I¡¯ll kill you three old coots first and use your blood to celebrate.¡±

    The crowd, preparing to leave, didn¡¯t expect this new turn of events. Chen Fan was now making a move against the three elders, dering his intent to kill them.

    Watching the unfolding events in the central battlefield, their expressions turned to shock and they stopped leaving.

    ¡°How dare you, Chen Fan!¡± The expressions of the red-bearded grand elder and the others in the sky immediately changed drastically. They shouted furiously, ¡°How dare you make a move against the grand elders! What in the world are thingsing to that you regard our sect as nothing? Aren¡¯t you afraid of alerting the sect leader once more by killing others in public and bringing punishment on yourself!¡±

    ¡°You losers better get lost, or I¡¯ll kill you as well, big beard! I¡¯ll see if the sect leader will punish me!¡± Chen Fan pointed with the iron spear in hand, teeming with killing intent. The red-bearded grand elder and the others¡¯ expressions changed drastically.

 Chapter 500 - Killing Three Grand Elders

    <h4>Chapter 500 - Killing Three Grand Elders</h4>

    The crowd was stunned by this sudden turn of events.

    Everyone stopped leaving and looked at Chen Fan, who was trying to ughter the grand elders of their sect publicly to use their blood to celebrate his victory.

    Countless people started discussing among themselves.

    ¡°This... this...¡±

    ¡°Is Chen Fan going to kill the grand elders to establish his authority?¡±

    ¡°Heavens, is Chen Fan trying to stir trouble? Is he really not afraid of the sect leader punishing him? After all, Chen Fan just defied the sect leader, and now he¡¯s threatening to kill the grand elders. He¡¯s really challenging the sect¡¯s authority.¡±

    ¡°Who knows? Then again, Chen Fan is backed up by the high elder. Otherwise, do you think Chen Fan would still be alive after going against the sect leader earlier and revealing his killing intent?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes trembled; before the tension from the previous fight had eased up, they felt tense again. Their blood boiled and heated up once more.

    Things should have ended with Duan Jingtian kneeling and admitting his mistake. However, that wasn¡¯t enough for Chen Fan, and he wanted to make a move on the three grand elders. This was a little too much.

    Even some elders from the neutral faction looked angry.

    However, Chen Fan paid no heed to them. He pointed at them with the iron spear and told them to get lost in an overbearing manner, or he would kill them as well.

    His actions had angered the lofty grand elders who were used to living like royalty.

    If it had been any other holy disciple, the grand elders would have immediately suppressed them. However, since it was Chen Fan, they didn¡¯t dare to make a move despite being furious.

    Chen Fan retracted his gaze from the red-bearded grand elder and the others. He looked at the merit elder¡¯s group and said, ¡°I told you before. The day Duan Jingtian is defeated will be the day I settle scores with you. Now, it¡¯s useless to regret your actions. No one can save you three!¡±

    Cold killing intent erupted from Chen Fan, sweeping out like the ocean¡¯s waves, causing the three grand elders¡¯ hands and feet to go cold.

    The battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian had already terrified them. They knew that they would bepletely powerless against either of them.

    ¡°Merit Elder, you people acted like Duan Jingtian¡¯s dog and plotted against me. Unfortunately, now you¡¯re about to be a dead dog!¡±

    A terrifying light shed from the tip of the iron spear, sending shivers down their spines.

    Even though Chen Fan¡¯s injuries weren¡¯t light, his presence alone was enough to scare the three grand elders out of their wits, too frightened to fight back.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you dare? You can¡¯t kill us! You imed that we tried to intercept and kill you outside, but what evidence do you have? That¡¯s nothing but nder! You¡¯re trying to avenge private wrongs with official duties!¡± roared the merit elder furiously.

    ¡°What a joke, Merit Elder. So what if I don¡¯t have any evidence? If I say this is how things are, then that¡¯s it! Moreover, just the fact that you gave me the corrupted Divine Stone of Life is enough to put you on the path of death. You still want to live after that? How na?ve!¡± Chen Fan said with a domineering tone, shaking the crowd.

    ¡°You¡¯re trampling on the sect rules, you¡¯re ndering us. All elders, let¡¯s join forces and kill this demon. He¡¯spletely fallen into the ways of the demons. This person disregards allws and actually dares to corner us... Ah!¡±

    The merit elder couldn¡¯t finish his sentence because a sharp spear had pierced his chest, robbing him of all signs of life. His soul crumbled, and his flesh and his blood evaporated.

    Raging mes covered him. He screamed miserably in those mes; soon, the screaming came to an abrupt stop.

    A cloud of ash was left behind, signifying that the merit elder was surely dead. He was killed by Chen Fan in full view of everyone.

    What kind of arrogance was this, to undermine the rules to this extent?

    He had tantly and publicly killed an inner sect grand elder.

    ¡°Abominable, how truly abominable! You really dared to make a move on the merit elder. You¡¯re a demon! You truly have no regard for thew!¡± Elder Liehuo and Chen Muyang were seriously upset. Their faces twisted with intense fear, looking like ghosts.

    The red-bearded grand elder and the others were also furious but didn¡¯t dare to make a move. They only made chiding remarks, giving a sense of loud thunder but a mere drizzle.

    ¡°No regard for thew? Hoho, cut the nonsense. You two are next.¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly and made his way toward Elder Liehuo and Chen Muyang.

    His terrifying killing intent swept through the sky. The expressions of the red-bearded grand elder and the others making reproachful remarks changed drastically, overwhelmed with shock.

    ¡°Ah! Damn it, I¡¯ll fight it out with you!¡± Elder Liehuo and Chen Muyang also knew that only death awaited them if they did not fight with everything they had. Their auras erupted, sweeping through the sky. They brought out treasure after treasure, attacking Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan did not care, however, and swept his spear horizontally, shattering those treasures. He thrust his spear at Chen Muyang. The terrifying spear light covered the sun and the moon, bing the only thing in heaven and earth.

    With a poof, all of Chen Muyang¡¯s methods were rendered useless. The iron spear pierced through him, and the force within made him explode.

    Elder Liehuo was scared out of his wits and tried to flee again.

    However, Chen Fan flipped his left palm. A gigantic golden palm covered the sky and pressed down ruthlessly.

    No matter how furiously Elder Liehuo channeled his qi, turning it into a sea of mes that engulfed the sky, it proved futile. The golden palm suppressed him, causing him to spew blood.

    ¡°Ah, I can¡¯t ept this, I hate th...¡± A miserable sound echoed as the gigantic golden palm crashed down with a thunderous rumble, shaking the earth. The sea of mes disappeared, and Elder Liehuo¡¯s indignant voice also came to an abrupt stop.

    Everyone¡¯s souls were deeply shaken.

    Chen Fan had effortlessly killed a seventh-level Core Formation realm and two eighth-level Core Formation realm grand elders.

    The red-bearded grand elder and the others were in shock.

    Having wielded power over life and death for so long, they never imagined their own lives could be so fragile.

    To Chen Fan, they were indeed like ants. He could easily end their lives if he chose to.

    ¡°Y-yo-you... you really killed them three, you...¡± said the red-bearded grand elder with a trembling voice, his teeth chattering and his expression filled with horror.

    Chen Fan looked at him and said, ¡°So what if I killed them? What, you want to avenge them? I seem to recall you making a move against me when I took the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda...¡±

    Before Chen Fan could finish his sentence, the red-bearded grand elder quickly fled in fear.

    He was scared that Chen Fan would really attack and kill him.

    The others were dumbfounded at the sight. A high and mighty grand elder of the sect, an invincible expert at the eighth-level Core Formation realm, was actually scared away by Chen Fan¡¯s words.

 Chapter 501 - Renown Far and Wide

    <h4>Chapter 501 - Renown Far and Wide</h4>

    Duan Jingtian begged for mercy.

    Three grand elders were killed on the spot.

    The dust had settled.

    The life-and-death battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian hade to a definitive close, marked by the death of three grand elders. This would set off an endless storm in the sect.

    In an enormous pce deep within the Spring Autumn Sect, a thunderous roar rang out.

    ¡°Abominable, he¡¯s too abominable! He publicly executed our grand elders, utterly disregarding our sect''s rules. If we, the enforcers of thew, do not step forward, what¡¯s stopping others from following suit? The sect will never see peace again!¡±

    Two big words were inscribed high up on this enormous pce: Law Enforcement.

    This was the Supreme Law Enforcement Hall, where all the elders were known for their ferocity and ruthlessness. They instilled fear in both the demonic paths and those from the orthodox path.

    They were in charge of doling out punishments and were an invincible group. Countless sect traitors had fallen at their hands; now, they all felt incredibly stifled, as they could do nothing to the killer of three grand elders.

    ¡°Step forward? What would that do? Can you bring down that guy? Or you? Let alone whether we can bring down Chen Fan, do any of you dare to?¡± Thew enforcement grand elder sat in his seat, his expression icy. A chill spread out from him, striking fear into the others.

    His eyes were as bright as stars, piercing through the darkness. He had an iparably terrifying power, like a volcano waiting to erupt, one that would surely shake heaven and earth.

    ¡°The sect leader''s silence during the killings implied consent. Moreover, with Duan Jingtian¡¯s defeat, the high elder faction¡¯s prestige has skyrocketed. If our Law Enforcement Hall acts against Chen Fan now, we risk provoking the high elders."

    ¡°In that case, what about our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s rules?¡±

    ¡°Rules are set for those without the strength to defy them. It¡¯s death for the weak if they break the rules. However, those with strength can rewrite the rules through sheer force. That''s how the world works.

    ¡°Alright, there is no need to discuss this further. The three grand elders plotted to kill Chen Fan first, justifying his retaliation. Since the sect leader remained silent, we should turn a blind eye to it and avoid unnecessary trouble."

    Thew enforcement grand elder swiftly decided on the matter.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡±

    The Law Enforcement Hall trembled with tension. The elders were visibly enraged but powerless to act.

    Time passed swiftly; half a month flew by.

    For the Spring Autumn Sect disciples, thest half-month felt like mere moments ago.

    The conclusion of Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian''s duel sent shockwaves through the sect.

    The once-dominant Heaven''s Alliance crumbled overnight, its members now targets of widespread resentment.

    Despite the trouble in Heaven¡¯s Alliance, no news came from its leader, Duan Jingtian. No one knew whether he was hiding within the sect to cultivate in seclusion, or if he had left to train elsewhere.

    Regardless, following Duan Jingtian¡¯s defeat and plea for mercy, his legend in the Spring Autumn Sect ended. It was unlikely he would reappear in public anytime soon.

    With Duan Jingtian''s fall, Chen Fan''s rise began. In just three years, Chen Fan had grown from a mere Qi Grandmaster to someone capable of defeating an exceptional genius like Duan Jingtian.

    That by itself was a legendary feat.

    As a result, many people started worshiping Chen Fan as their idol, especially the disciples with low cultivation levels and humble origins. Their admiration bordered on fanaticism.

    It was said that many disciples erected a statue of Chen Fan in the sect. They worshiped and prayed to it daily in hopes of getting a bit of Chen Fan¡¯s luck and soar to the skies in one go.

    Of course, this was more of a psychologicalfort.

    For a time, Chen Fan''s fame within the Spring Autumn Sect soared to unprecedented heights.

    It went without saying that the entire Great Chu Empire was paying attention to the battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian. As time passed, the results of this battle also quickly spread.

    As the news spread, the revtion that the sect leader, Feng Baiyu, had intervened and that Duan Jingtian had begged for mercy sent shockwaves throughout the empire.

    When Chen Fan had wreaked havoc in the imperial city while wiping out the Qin n, it had raised a storm. This, on the other hand, was like a star had crashed into the ocean, generating a monstrous wave.

    Numerous holy disciples from various sects had witnessed the unprecedented spectacle that was the fight. News of the event spread with some embellishment, causing the entire Great Chu Empire to erupt into amotion.

    The imperial city was the heart of the Great Chu Empire, and also the most prosperous city.

    Qingfeng Restaurant:

    ¡°Have you heard about the showdown between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian of the Spring Autumn Sect? I never expected it would end with Duan Jingtian begging for mercy. If it wasn¡¯t for their sect leader protecting him, Duan Jingtian would not have made it out alive.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard from the holy disciples who were there to witness it firsthand. Duan Jingtian was at the ninth level of the Core Formation realm. His strength was incredible, far beyond what his rank on the Geniuses of Heavens Leaderboard suggests. Some say he''s on par with the top three."

    ¡°I know, right? Still, he lost and had to beg for mercy. It must have dealt a severe blow to him. This could be asting obstacle in his martial arts journey."

    ¡°This Chen Fan is truly a monster, rising to such prominence in only three years. Some people are saying he¡¯s a god descended into the world, or the reincarnation of an immortal. I wonder if that¡¯s true.¡±

    ¡°Haha, you believe in that? What nonsense. It¡¯s all fake. There¡¯s no such thing as gods or immortals in this world, let alone their reincarnation or descent into the world. I heard that the real reason Chen Fan grew so strong so quickly and rose to prominence is because he obtained an incredible legacy.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, all this is beyond us. Many people in the imperial city were praying for Chen Fan¡¯s defeat, hoping Duan Jingtian would kill him. They thought that would put the Chen n, which has recently gained a strong foothold in the city, into crisis and at risk of extermination. But now, with news of the battle spreading, the entire Great Chu Empire is shaken. Those who were eager to strike at the Chen n will have to back down.¡±

    ¡°I know, right! I heard that the Qin n members still haven¡¯t given up and were ready to make aeback after Duan Jingtian cut down Chen Fan, exterminating the Chen n and everyone rted to Chen Fan. But now, I¡¯m afraid they would have to hide even deeper in the royal pce and not dare toe out.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Every corner of the Great Chu Empire buzzed with discussions about Chen Fan. His name had truly spread far and wide.

 Chapter 502 - A Massive Earthquake Shakes the Empire

    <h4>Chapter 502 - A Massive Earthquake Shakes the Empire</h4>

    The imperial city, Chen n:

    When the news reached them, the entire n erupted into celebrations.

    The entire Great Chu Empire had long known about the life-and-death battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian.

    When he had wiped out the Qin n and returned to the Spring Autumn Sect, the n members understood he was returning for his critical duel. They were well aware of Duan Jingtian''s reputation, as his name was renowned across the empire, especially since he was in the top ten of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard.

    Even though Chen Fan had caused a bloodbath in the imperial city and even defeated the de Thunder Mountain¡¯s Dongfang Yu, the Chen n members still felt very anxious.

    They knew that if Chen Fan was killed by Duan Jingtian, the Chen n, which had just begun to rise to glory, would copse instantly.

    During the fight, the entire Chen n had been on edge, waiting for news from the Spring Autumn Sect. They were so anxious that they lost all interest in cultivating.

    Fortunately, the news quickly spread to the imperial city after the battle ended, reaching their ears too.

    The entire Chen n went wild with joy after learning that Chen Fan had won and made Duan Jingtian beg for mercy.

    Nangong n:

    The news had simrly reached the Nangong n¡¯s ears.

    However, unlike the jubnt Chen n, the entire Nangong n was engulfed in a gloomy atmosphere. The n elders and even the younger generation members were all sighing.

    Many in the Nangong n had hoped that Duan Jingtian would be able to take down Chen Fan. The oue left them not only disappointed but also terrified.

    Had they not sided with the Qin n and remained on the sidelines, they wouldn¡¯t be in such a situation.

    s, a single misstep led to a cascade of mistakes.

    Now, Chen Fan''s name had spread far and wide, his prowess unmatched.

    However, their Nangong n could only gnash their teeth and swallow their regret.

    ¡°Wrong, the grand elder was truly wrong!¡±

    ¡°He was terribly wrong. We pushed out a monstrous descendant like Chen Fan for the sake of a marriage alliance. The grand elder is too old and short-sighted!¡±

    ¡°Now that Chen Fan has be famous, who in the Great Chu Empire doesn¡¯t know of him? The Chen n will also cement its title as the number one n in the imperial city. Even the royal family would have to cede to them, while our Nangong n declines by the day...¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many of the Nangong n descendants began feeling resentment towards Nangong Xuan.

    Of course, Nangong Xuan felt more remorseful than anyone.

    He had tried to strengthen the Nangong n wholeheartedly. The n could have risen to the next level, but he squandered the opportunity with his own hands. His actions not only ruined the n''s future but also elerated its decline.

    He felt so much remorse that his intestines were about to turn green.

    He couldn''t bear to imagine the Nangong n''s fate after his passing.

    Without an absolute expert overseeing the n, the n would be like a juicy piece of meat, preyed upon by all.

    Instead of leading the Nangong n to glory, his decisions had led them into decline. He dreaded facing his ancestors in the afterlife, knowing he had failed them.

    The Royal Pce:

    Lord Chu had set aside a side pce to serve as the Qin n¡¯s residence.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    In the main hall, Qin Wudi spewed blood from anger and broke all the valuable chinaware when he heard the news, making a mess on the floor.

    The Qin n was once a mighty existence, standing at the top of the world. As members of the Qin n, they were noble existences; now, they dared not step outside the royal pce.

    Qin Jian also had an ashen and defeated look on his face. Since the downfall of the Qin n, he had sworn to train relentlessly, aiming to one day surpass Chen Fan and exact revenge.

    But now, he felt drained of all energy.

    Could he really surpass Chen Fan?

    A sense of despair enveloped his heart.

    ......

    The buzz outside did not affect Chen Fan at all.

    After that battle, he returned to his peak and went into seclusion to tend to his injuries. He had suffered heavy injuries in the battle.

    After all, Duan Jingtian was also very terrifyingly strong. He would have in Chen Fan on the spot had thetter¡¯s Myriad Elephants Divine Art not advanced to the fourteenthyer. The oue and aftermath would have been utterly different then.

    Consequently, his injuries weren¡¯t light, especially due to how the battle continued in theter stage. Duan Jingtian had brought out everything he had, igniting the power of his golden core andunching an unparalleled force. The destructive energy in the Purgatory Divine Halberd had invaded him, shaking even the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    His seclusionsted a month.

    In the secret room, Chen Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a mouthful of turbid qi.

    ¡°<i>Phew</i>!

    ¡°An entire month just to recuperate... The injuries were really severe this time,¡± Chen Fan muttered, his gaze flickering.

    He had been injured before, and the extent of those injuries hadn¡¯t always been light.

    When he was hunted down by Zhao Tianjue, he had been injured very severely. Even his foundation was damaged, so he had to recuperate for a long time to recover fully.

    However, all his other injuries were simply child¡¯s ypared to what he was currently dealing with.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd contained a special destructive force. Even though the Heaven Seizing Furnace was capable of refining all matter, he had to spend a whole month to refine and remove all hidden danger.

    Fortunately, the injuries weren¡¯t the only thing he had gained; he also obtained great rewards. His cultivation had advanced and be even more solid and refined; consequently, hisbat strength had also risen.

    Martial artists grow rapidly in life-and-death struggles. Those who cultivate in safe environments cannotpare to those who risk their lives. This is why Chen Fan rose to power in just three years.

    While the earth-shaking legacy he obtained yed a crucial role, it was his participation in numerous life-and-death struggles that allowed him to reach his current realm.

    Braving countless dangers and teetering on the edge of life and death, he rapidly elevated his cultivation level.

    Time passed quickly, and another half a month went by.

    During this period, Chen Fan went to meet the high elder once and learned some things regarding the Grand Sect Conference from him. Aside from that, he spent all his time cultivating.

    On this day, a huge piece of news that shook the entire Great Chu Empire reached the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Five top sects in the Great Chu Empire¡ªthe Bright Pce, Profound Yang Temple, Boundless Sect, Earth Fiend Sect, and Starfall Pavilion¡ªwere annihted overnight. None of the martial artists were spared, with casualties numbering over ten thousand disciples. Only a very small number of them escaped.

    When this news came out, it was like a star had crashed into the continent, causing an earthquake across the Great Chu Empire.

 Chapter 503 - Blood Demons Rampaging

    <h4>Chapter 503 - Blood Demons Rampaging</h4>

    The extermination of five top sects overnight was as cataclysmic as a massive earthquake shaking the Great Chu Empire.

    Although there were many sects within the Great Chu Empire, not many could be called top-tier¡ªa distinction requiring a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse as their guardian.

    The extermination of those sects meant the fall of five Divine Nascent realm powerhouses along with them. This news could simply scare someone to death.

    Core Formation realm martial artists could already be called top-tier experts in the Great Chu Empire and were unrivaled existences.

    The Divine Nascent realm was the true peak of the Great Chu Empire. Every one of them possessed the power to destroy heaven and earth.

    The simultaneous killing of five Divine Nascent realm powerhouses was an unprecedented event.

    This wasn¡¯t akin to destroying a second or third-rate sect. A Divine Nascent realm powerhouse was a fearsome entity, capable of taking on ten thousand foes single-handedly.

    Moreover, the five sects also have numerous top Core Formation realm experts in their ranks. Yet, they were wiped out overnight, with only a few low-level cultivators managing to escape by sheer luck.

    Who could annihte five top sects in a single night?

    The fact that they could simultaneously destroy five top sects suggested that those responsible could wipe out all the top sects in the Great Chu Empire.

    Suddenly, the battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian waspletely overshadowed by the news of the five top sects'' annihtion.

    All the sects within the Great Chu Empire grew anxious.

    The atmosphere in the sects became very tense. They feared that the same destruction could strike their sects at any moment.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was also in a simr state.

    Although the Spring Autumn Sect had two Divine Nascent realm powerhouses overseeing them, would the mastermind behind the annihtion of five top sects be unable to wipe out a single Spring Autumn Sect?

    The news left everyone in shock and struck fear into their hearts.

    In response to this threat, the higher-ups of many top-tier sects within the Great Chu Empire began reaching out to other sects to form alliances and establishmunication channels. They agreed that in times of trouble, the other parties would rush to their aid.

    The terrifying power that could silently annihte five top sects overnight wasn''t something a single top sect could defend against alone. Only by uniting several top sects could they gain the power to resist.

    This was also true for the four great sects of the Qingyang Mountain Range.

    The Spring Autumn Sect, Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Burning Incense Valley, and Mountain River Sect¡¯s sect leaders and higher-ups came together for a meeting, putting aside their past enmities to ally.

    The four great sects had all been established in the Qingyang Mountain Range and were close to one another. In the event of trouble, the other three parties could quickly assist.

    That way, the dark clouds looming over the four great sects decreased a little. The stifling atmosphere also lightened up somewhat.

    In the Spring Autumn Sect, many disciples were discussing this matter, their words filled with unease.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, what is this all about? Why did something this huge happen now? I mean, how can such strong sects even be wiped out overnight? Everyone is stricken with fear.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard that some people have gone to the five sects to take a look. The scene was unbearable¡ªmany people were drained of their blood and are nothing but husks now. This is obviously the work of blood demons.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, how could those demonic beings be so powerful, to silently wipe out five top-tier sects overnight? That would require at least seven or eight Divine Nascent realm powerhouses to strike at the same time, right?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? The whole empire is on edge now, but the blood demons vanished without a trace after such a shocking event.¡±

    ¡°Unseen enemies are the most terrifying. Who knows when they might strike again? Those five top sects did not expect to be ambushed by the demonic beings and were caught off-guard, leading to their demise overnight.¡±

    ¡°We don¡¯t have to worry too much. Now, all the sects across the entire Great Chu Empire are paying attention to this matter and have formed alliances. With the orthodox alliance formed, any demonic beings daring to show themselves would be swiftly dealt with and eradicated.¡±

    ¡°You have a point. The powerful blood demons will face the wrath of sect leaders and experts. People like us only need to deal with the minions.¡±

    ¡°Now that such a huge event has taken ce, I wonder if the Grand Sect Conference will still be held?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The timing of such a major incident just before the Grand Sect Conference had everyone in the Great Chu Empire on edge, as if a brewing storm was about to explode.

    A month after the five top sects were exterminated, another massive event shook the empire.

    The culprits behind the massacre¡ªthe blood demons from the Blood Demon Caveunched another surprise attack on the top sects of the Great Chu Empire. This time, however, the targeted sects were prepared.

    Although the blood demons¡¯ ambush was very sudden, the three ambushed top sects immediately responded and mounted a defense.

    The blood demons had mobilized six Divine Nascent realm powerhouses to wipe out the three sects in one fell swoop, initially causing heavy losses to the sects.

    Fortunately, the other sects¡¯ experts quickly rushed to their aid and struck back against the blood demons. In the end, they sessfully repelled the blood demons and even killed two of their Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    While the orthodox forces did suffer losses¡ªincluding a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse and numerous Core Formation experts¡ªthis was nheless a significant victory, dealing a blow to the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s arrogance.

    This time, the Blood Demon Cave failed to wipe out the three top sects and even lost two of their Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. Their attack also proved that they were undoubtedly behind the extermination of the five top sects.

    For a while, cries calling for the death of the blood demons rang out across the Great Chu Empire.

    After all, these demonic beings were too cruel, leaving devastation in their wake wherever they went.

    Spring Autumn Sect:

    ¡°Master, now that the blood demons have reappeared and are rampaging across the empire, will the Grand Sect Conference still be held?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking at Wei Buyu.

    The Grand Sect Conference was still three to four months away, but the situation in the Great Chu Empire was very tense.

    In the past, those blood demons would hide like rats and act in the dark; now, they hade out to the surface, disying terrifying strength.

    If the Grand Sect Conference were to be held as normal, it would be equivalent to a huge living target.

    If the blood demons decided to gather their strength and ambush the conference, it could lead to a catastrophic disaster.

 Chapter 504 - Cracking Down on the Blood Demons

    <h4>Chapter 504 - Cracking Down on the Blood Demons</h4>

    ¡°The Grand Sect Conference will be held as normal. We won¡¯t cancel it just because of a blood cmity,¡± Wei Buyu said calmly.

    The Grand Sect Conference held immense significance for the sects of the Great Chu Empire, as it determined the potential emergence of a new Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.

    ¡°But the blood demons are running rampant within the empire¡¯s borders. If the Grand Sect Conference is held as scheduled, it would be disastrous if the Blood Demon Cave gathers its strength andunches a surprise attack on us,¡± Chen Fan argued.

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°The orthodox alliance has considered that scenario. I¡¯ve received word that before the Grand Sect Conferencemences, the orthodox sects will mobilize to eradicate the blood demons and eliminate this future threat.

    It was clear that stabilizing this situation was paramount. Allowing the blood demons to strike during the Grand Sect Conference could result in unimaginable casualties.

    ¡°To ensure the smooth operation of the Grand Sect Conference, the orthodox alliance has decided to entrust the task of eliminating the blood demons to you people. Consider it a trial by fire for you seeded contenders [1] before the conference begins.

    ¡°As for the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s Divine Nascent realm powerhouses, the Divine Nascent realm powerhouses from our side will deal with them. You guys just have to get rid of blood demons below the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    Chen Fan''s eyes flickered with curiosity and concern.

    ¡°Master, why do you think those demonic beings are spreading such chaos after remaining dormant for years? What gives them the courage?¡± Chen Fan asked doubtfully.

    The Blood Demon Cave had shocked the empire by eradicating five top sects overnight. So, there was no denying that they were powerful; if one thought about it, were they really strong enough to destroy the entire empire alone?

    After all, the Great Chu Empire had tens of top-tier sects, which meant the empire had tens of Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    If those factions united and located the nest of the Blood Demon Cave, they could eliminate them easily.

    Since the Blood Demon Cave used to be rtively inactive, they couldn¡¯t locate their nest. Whenever some blood demon caused trouble, they would be quickly dealt with, like the group of blood-sucking bandits in the northwest region. However, they had made a huge ssh by eradicating five sects. This was equivalent to provoking the Great Chu Empire¡¯s orthodox alliance, likely prompting a fierce retaliation.

    Wei Buyu shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯m not very sure about this, either. I''ve heard reports that this chaos isn''t confined to the Great Chu Empire. Other empires are experiencing simr bloodshed, suggesting a spreading crisis across the entire Hong Domain."

    Chen Fan¡¯s irises shrunk violently.

    He wasn''t as naive as before and understood the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect''s structure: nine pces, thirty-six halls, and a hundred and eight branches. The Blood Demon Cave was one of those hundred-and-eight branches, rtively minor in scope within the sect.

    Had it been a pce or a hall behind all this chaos, Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t have been surprised. However, why would a mere branch like the Blood Demon Cave dare to plunge the Hong Domain into chaos?

    Although the Hong Domain¡¯s overall strength was far from what it was three thousand years ago, with not a single Heavenly Star realm powerhouse, they still had quite a few Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    The great ancient war had crippled the Blood Demon Cave, causing their strength to plummet. Despite recuperating for three thousand years, they should not have the power to shake up the entire Hong Domain.

    After all, even at its peak, the Blood Demon Cave did not have a single Heavenly Star realm powerhouse, let alone now.

    ¡°It¡¯s rather intriguing. Three thousand years have passed since that great battle. Although the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect was eradicated, we couldn¡¯t get rid of them all. After recovering for so many years, I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ve grown stronger and n to make aeback,¡± Wei Buyu said with a sigh.

    Chen Fan nodded. He recalled his trip to the Myriad Deaths Mountains. The demonic cultivators were indeed bing restless, hinting at a return to the world.

    ......

    Another half a month went by.

    The Blood Demon Cave hadn¡¯t stopped wreaking havoc across the Great Chu Empire, causing widespread panic. Entire cities were decimated, left as ghost towns.

    Realizing the orthodox alliance had formed in the empire, the blood demons refrained from targeting top sects directly. Thus, the blood demons wreaking havoc across the Great Chu Empire were all below the Divine Nascent realm.

    In response to the blood cmity, the orthodox alliance issued orders, dispatching sect disciples to deal with the blood demons. They wanted to quell the blood cmity and stabilize the situation before the Grand Sect Conference.

    This cmity affected everyone in the Great Chu Empire.

    As the current number one holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, Chen Fan was obligated to lead the disciples to crack down on the rampaging blood demons.

    In just a month, Chen Fan eradicated more than twenty strongholds and slew numerous Core Formation realm demons. His prowess became legendary, striking fear into the blood demons at the mere mention of his name.

    It wasn''t just Chen Fan taking action. Other top ten geniuses from the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard also joined the operation to eradicate the blood demons, hinting at an informalpetition before the Grand Sect Conference.

    That said, the blood demons weren¡¯t easy targets, either. The blood demons were challenging opponents, with some as strong, if not stronger, than the top geniuses.

    Take Young Master Xue Jia, for example. He was exceptionally fierce, leading the blood demons across the Great Chu Empire like a locust swarm, mercilessly killing and draining people''s blood.

    Li Fan, the number one disciple of the Donghua Sect and ranked fifth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, had arrogantly sought out Young Master Xue Jia. He wanted to bring down Young Master Xue Jia to boost his fame. However, the encounter ended with Li Fan''s death, his blood drained dry.

    Their fight supposedly reached such intensity that the heaven crumbled and the earth cracked, the sun and moon dimmed, mountains echoed, seas thundered, and stars fell from the sky.

    Both of them were top experts under the Divine Nascent realm. Their every attack contained incredibly terrifying power.

    Ultimately, Young Master Xue Jia proved stronger, killing Li Fan.

    The entire Great Chu Empire was shaken as soon as news of this spread.

    Some people even heard the enraged roars of a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse from within the Donghua Sect, echoing across the heavens.

    After all, Li Fan was the number one holy disciple of their sect and a seeded contestant of the Grand Sect Conference. He was an exceptional genius with hopes of advancing into the Divine Nascent realm. It would be strange if the Donghua Sect wasn¡¯t mad about his death.

    1. refers to tournament settings when certain individuals/teams are given a preliminary ranking for the draw to avoid all the strong people being stacked in a single bracket. ?

 Chapter 505 - The Blood Demons Invade

    <h4>Chapter 505 - The Blood Demons Invade</h4>

    The crackdown on the blood demons was still underway.

    Ultimately, evil failed to prevail over righteousness. Despite the heavy losses suffered by the orthodox alliance in battling the demonic path, including the loss of many experts, the rampant blood demons in the Great Chu Empire were pushed back.

    Chen Fan made a name for himself during this campaign and obtained many blood demon cores. Refining them made his cultivation advance rapidly; he was now at thete stage of the eighth level.

    With all the demon cores he had, he could have advanced to the ninth level. However, he opted for caution to avoid an unstable foundation.

    As the blood demons began retreating, Chen Fan returned to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Now that the Blood Demon Cave began to show signs of defeat and the remaining blood demons were quite weak, he left the task to others.

    Chen Fan deemed it unnecessary to hunt blood demons below the first to second-level Core Formation realm. It would be akin to using a butcher''s knife to ughter a chicken.

    Moreover, the blood demons wreaking havoc across the empire could serve as a training tool for the disciples. While these minions weren''t challenging enough for Chen Fan, they provided excellent practice for the elite and core disciples.

    A few individuals could not determine the strength or perpetuity of a n. The entire n needed to be strong to continue their legacy. A sect with only a handful of strong members would inevitably decline over time.

    Chen Fan wasn''t the only one to return to his sect; other top experts from the leaderboard followed suit, leaving the cleanup to the elite and core disciples.

    However, the absence of these formidable experts allowed the blood demons to regroup and counterattack, causing losses to the orthodox alliance disciples.

    This oue was anticipated.

    The current situation resembled a tug-of-war between the orthodox alliance and the Blood Demon Cave.

    ......

    On this ominous day, dark clouds covered the skies, like Mount Tai was pressing down from above.

    A furious roar suddenly rang out. The gates of the Spring Autumn Sect trembled violently as a terrifying force surged forth, causing mountains to crumble and protective formations to disintegrate instantly.

    From above, a colossal blood-red hand blotted out the sky, tearing through space as it descended toward one of the Spring Autumn Sect''s mountains.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The peak shattered upon impact, its inhabitants killed in an instant.

    ¡°Who is it, to dare sneak attack our Spring Autumn Sect!¡± A furious shout came from the depths of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Spring Autumn Sect, your sect has stood for millenniums and participated in that ancient war three thousand years ago. Your hands are stained with the blood of my brethren. It¡¯s time for you to pay back! Today will be the end of your sect!¡± The sound of maniacalughter echoed from the void as another gigantic hand descended from the sky, aiming to destroy the sect.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± an icy voice replied. In an instant, a dazzling de light sliced through the air, striking the massive hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The gigantic hand was severed, disintegrating into endless blood qi that spread out.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    Two imposing figures emerged from the depths of the Spring Autumn Sect. They stood in the air, their auras shaking heaven and earth. All the qi in the vicinity converged on them, their presence overwhelmingly powerful.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Sect Leader and the High Elder!¡±

    The previously frightened Spring Autumn Sect disciples eximed in relief, their fears put to rest by the sight of these two figures.

    Sect Leader Feng Baiyu and High Elder Yun Tu were the pirs of the Spring Autumn Sect. As long as they stood, the sect would remain strong, instilling confidence in the disciples.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    As Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu appeared, their auras covered the sky and shrouded the heavens. An enormous wave of blood qi immediately erupted from the void, rolling and surging. Two simrly powerful blood-colored figures appeared, standing on the sea of blood.

    ¡°How bold of you demons, to dare attack our Spring Autumn Sect. Today, none of you demonic beings shall return. All of you shall be buried here!¡± Feng Baiyu said with a cold gaze. A de intent erupted from him, rushing into the sky, slicing space-time. That sh from earlier was from him.

    ¡°What a joke. We know about the alliance between the sects. Did you think we wouldn¡¯t prepare for that? So, don¡¯t wait for the other three sects. I am sure they already have their hands full,¡± said a Divine Nascent realm blood demon with a cold smile.

    <i>Whoosh.</i>

    As the blood sea churned, numerous blood demons materialized one after another. Blood qi surged skyward, staining the heavens red as if the heavens were weeping blood.

    ¡°So many demonic beings?!¡± roared a disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect when he saw the thousands of blood demons densely packed together.

    His fear was shared by the others. The sight of so many blood demons intent on annihting the Spring Autumn Sect caused teeth to chatter and hearts to race.

    Chen Fan stood among them, his gaze narrowing at the sight of the blood demons. However, he did not panic.

    Although the blood demons had a numerical advantage, the oue of this war hinged on the fight between the four Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    In the face of absolute strength, sheer numbers mattered little.

    The tens of thousands-strong blood demon army hade in full force to wage war on the Spring Autumn Sect. Some of the less courageous disciples fainted outright from fear.

    However, even more of the Spring Autumn Sect disciples unleashed their cultivation, their gazes fierce. Intense murderous auras surged from them.

    The disciples roared furiously. Their homnd was directly behind them; they had nowhere to retreat. They had to fight to the end.

    ¡°Go, wipe out the Spring Autumn Sect!¡±manded a Divine Nascent realm blood demon, his gesture signaling the start of battle.

    The blood demons behind him were like a swarm of locusts, traversing the sea of blood and charging toward the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Simultaneously, the two Divine Nascent realm blood demons also attacked Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu.

    ¡°Hear my orders, disciples of Spring Autumn Sect. Kill the blood demons by any means!¡± Feng Baiyumanded as his aura instantly erupted. de qi rushed to the sky. He shed toward a Divine Nascent realm blood demon, cutting the sea of blood into two.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sh between the Spring Autumn Sect disciples and the vast army of blood demons erupted, signaling the beginning of a fierce battle.

    Meanwhile, the four Divine Nascent realm powerhouses vanished into the void of the nine heavens and started a huge battle. Waves of terrifying fluctuations erupted from the skies, shaking heaven and earth.

    Amidst the chaos, a blood demon wielding an ax cut down a dozen Spring Autumn Sect disciples. He stood in the air, his aura surging to the heavens. Murderous qi rolled around him as his voice resounded through the clouds. ¡°Where is Chen Fan? Where is Chen Fan?! Come out and ept your death!¡±

 Chapter 506 - Battling Young Master Xue Jia

    <h4>Chapter 506 - Battling Young Master Xue Jia</h4>

    ¡°Where¡¯s Chen Fan? Where is Chen Fan? Come out and ept your death!¡±

    A devastating arc of ax light cleaved through the air as if rending heaven and earth itself.

    Over a dozen Spring Autumn Sect disciples were instantly cut down, their screams silenced before they could even escape.

    The voice belonged to a towering figure.

    He was muscr and stood over ten feet tall, wielding a colossal ax that exuded a menacing aura. His presence was more akin to a wild beast than a man.

    ¡°Young Master Xue Jia, it¡¯s Young Master Xue Jia!¡± Someone from the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side immediately cried out in fear.

    Young Master Xue Jia had made a name for himself by killing Li Fan, owner of the fifth position on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard.

    Among the blood demons, he stood out for his unconventional stature and demeanor.

    While other blood demons were frail and pale, emanating chilling auras from their demonic cultivation techniques, Young Master Xue Jia was a giant inparison, looking wild and domineering.

    ¡°Hmph, that¡¯s me alright. Now, die!¡± Young Master Xue Jia smiled coldly. His aura ravaged heaven and earth. With a wave of his thick arm, a terrifying light immediately swept out. No one could block it. Even the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s holy disciples turned pale and retreated quickly.

    Xue Jia was about to kill another group of Spring Autumn Sect disciples; suddenly, the space shook.

    A sharp spear silhouette shot forth, striking the ax light and destroying it, saving the Spring Autumn Sect disciples from a terrible fate.

    Another loud explosion suddenly rang out.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A gigantic golden palm descended, smashing several blood demons into pulp. An immensely powerful figure emerged¡ªit was Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hmph, how dare you demons attack our sect. All of you shall die!¡± Chen Fan''s gaze was icy cold as his aura red. Wielding an iron spear, he charged into the midst of the blood demons like a streak of light.

    Screams erupted from the blood demons as Chen Fan rampaged through their ranks, mercilessly ughtering everyone in his path and creating a wide space.

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples cheered, their morale skyrocketing.

    ¡°It¡¯s Senior Brother Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°Haha, Senior Brother Chen Fan has made a move.¡±

    Young Master Xue Jia had disyed unparalleled might by killing numerous disciples in a sh earlier. He even killed a holy disciple on the spot. It simply shook the souls of the Spring Autumn Sect disciples.

    But now, with Chen Fan stepping forward and annihting many blood demons in retaliation, the effect on the sect¡¯s morale was palpable.

    ¡°No need to panic, everyone. Follow me and kill our enemies!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously. His booming voice spread across the battlefield, greatly boosting the morale of the Spring Autumn Sect disciples.

    Chen Fan''s words carried immense weight. He had be the new legend of the Spring Autumn Sect, idolized by many disciples. His presence and leadership were a beacon of hope and strength.

    He condensed a Great Brahma Sacred Palm in his hand, which expanded rapidly in the air before smashing down, on its way to kill tens, if not hundreds, of blood demons.

    However, a terrifying ax silhouettended on the Great Brahma Sacred Palm, producing a deafening boom.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The immense force raged in the air, transforming into a terrifying storm that swept outward.

    ¡°So, you are Chen Fan? Very good. I¡¯ve heard of you. You stirred up quite the storm in the Great Chu Empire recently, killing many of our disciples during the crackdown. Your acts have sealed your fate: you¡¯ll die today.¡± Young Master Xue Jia flew over, riding a bloody light with an ax in hand. He looked at Chen Fan with a murderous aura.

    ¡°Of course, I will ensure that you don¡¯t get lonely in theherworld. I will send your entire sect to apany you!¡±

    Chen Fan chuckled coldly and said, ¡°Annihte the Spring Autumn Sect? Wake up, you delusional demon. It¡¯s good that you demons are here. I''ll cut you down today and rid the world of a great evil!¡±

    He had heard of Young Master Xue Jia, as the demon had killed Li Fan. That incident had shaken the whole Great Chu Empire.

    The exceptional geniuses ranked within the top five of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard were invincible experts. For someone like that to be in by Young Master Xue Jia underscored the magnitude of the shock it caused.

    The incident made the public acutely aware of the ferocious abilities of Young Master Xue Jia.

    ¡°Hahahaha, You? Want to kill me?¡± Young Master Xue Jiaughed maniacally. With scorn, he said, ¡°You¡¯re not weak, but I even killed Li Fan. You are hardly better than him. Honestly, I thought those on the leaderboard would be quite formidable, but fighting Li Fan showed me I overestimated them."

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, cut the crap. We¡¯ll only know after we fight!¡± Chen Fan cut in abruptly. No amount of words would cause any damage to Young Master Xue Jia.

    His aura surged from head to toe, his immense strength simmering intensely.

    Chen Fan could sense Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s strength. It was like an ancient ferocious beast resting within him. If it were awakened, only corpses would be left behind.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan struck. True primeval gushed out, transforming into a gigantic palm that covered the sky and hurtled toward Young Master Xue Jia.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The sound of wind rang out mournfully. The air in space quickly escaped, setting off a monstrous wave. A scene that resembled the end of the world appeared.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I¡¯ll see what you have to say after I cut you down!¡± said Young Master Xue Jia with a contemptuous gaze. He was indifferent to the approaching palm strike, shing out with his ax with a wave of his arm.

    <i>Gechi!</i>

    The space tore apart like fabric. The ax light was heavy and sharp, easily slicing through Chen Fan''s gigantic palm seal like it was tofu.

    ¡°Die!¡± roared Young Master Xue Jia. His killing intent shook the heavens as it surged.

    As he stepped forth, the space seemed to produce a cracking noise. He shot out like a catapult, raised his ax high, and chopped down at Chen Fan.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Chen Fan felt a wave of terrifying, crushing pressure bearing down on him as Young Master Xue Jia closed in.

    ¡°Die!¡± Young Master Xue Jia chopped down violently. His ax rumbled as if splitting heaven and earth apart.

    The attack seemed ready to sweep across the universe, unstoppable by anything.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, cold light shooting out of them. He realized that Xue Jia would be a troublesome opponent, as he was even stronger than Duan Jingtian.

    Yet, fear was absent from Chen Fan''s heart.

    His blood was boiling inside. With a shake of his arm, the iron spear flew out like a fierce dragon. There was no finesse, no technique¡ªjust a sh of raw power.

 Chapter 507 - Brutal Battle

    <h4>Chapter 507 - Brutal Battle</h4>

    A tragic battle erupted at the gates of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    A blood demon pierced a disciple as easily as piercing meat.

    It was an extremely gory image, yet no one had the luxury to think about it. They all had one word running through their mind: Kill!

    For the Spring Autumn Sect disciples, this sudden and brutal battle left no room for retreat. They had no choice but to fight with their lives on the line.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Several Spring Autumn Sect disciples formed a sword formation, enveloping about a dozen blood demons and ughtered them almost instantly, turning them into mincemeat.

    Both sides were killing each other with terrifying efficiency, each putting their all into killing the other.

    This was a monumental conflict destined to be an evesting legend.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had stood for many centuries, but never before had it faced an attack at its very gates. The disciples, though initially flustered, grew more resolute in their determination.

    This was their home; they had nowhere to retreat to.

    Ancient formations activated one after another. The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s defensive measures, hidden for centuries, finally emerged.

    Numerous formations, buried for hundreds or even thousands of years, came to life. Many blood demons who rushed in were instantly killed, leaving no survivors.

    ¡°Shoot at them!¡± roared someone from the blood demons¡¯ side.

    Immediately, the well-trained demon army drew their blood demon bows and fired a barrage of arrows.

    Densely packed blood-colored arrows instantly covered the sky, tearing through the white clouds before raining down.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Numerous Spring Autumn Sect disciples fell, their lives snuffed out as miserable screams echoed, marking the tragic end of many.

    A grand elder roared furiously, ¡°Counterattack!¡±

    At this time, several massive, ancient formations were activated. All the primeval qi of heaven and earth in the vicinity was instantly absorbed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    In the blink of an eye, dark clouds appeared in the sky, covering the sun. Endless lightning dragons shed and tumbled within those dark clouds, signaling an impending world-destroying cmity.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    Immediately, endless lightning snakes fell from the dark clouds, forming an ocean of lightning. Countless blood demons were struck down by this force, which represented extreme Yang and ferocity.

    The blood demons¡¯ cultivation had cold and Yin properties, making them particrly vulnerable to energies with extreme Yang elements like lightning and fire. It immediately restrained them, causing their battle strength to fall drastically.

    Three thousand years ago, the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect ravaged the Tianwu Continent, initiating many catastrophic battles. The Spring Autumn Sect had also participated in the battle to eradicate it, confronting the blood demons directly.

    Learning from that experience, the leaders and higher-ups of the Spring Autumn Sectid down these formations as a precautionary measure for the future.

    Now, the preparations were paying dividends. Arge swathe of the blood demons¡¯ attacks was instantly crushed, reducing the pressure on the Spring Autumn Sect disciples.

    This was a sh between two great factions, with countless lives lost every moment. The terrifying collisions turned them into meat paste.

    The immense blood qi transformed into a sea of blood, churning in the air as it resisted the falling lightning, which spread over several kilometers wide.

    Despite their vulnerability to lightning, the Blood Demon Cave had meticulously prepared to annihte the Spring Autumn Sect, holding a significant numerical advantage.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side found themselves in a precarious position, with each disciple or elder facing multiple enemies simultaneously.

    Even with the power of the ancient formations, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s defense line was still breached and was repeatedly pushed back.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, the entire Spring Autumn Sect shook.

    Deep within the Heavenly Vein Mountains, a mountain rose and came sweeping over, crushing the space with a rumble. Immediately, countless blood demons were smashed into smithereens.

    The Heavenly Vein Mountains served two purposes: they were the sect elders and the holy disciples¡¯ cultivation peaks and were an instrument of war. They were war fortresses designed with numerous powerful methods by the elders and the holy disciples.

    Such tactics were established when the sect was first formed.

    ¡°Members of Lightning Association, activate the war fortress with me and kill the evil demons!¡± Lei Wushuang directed his cultivation peak, turning it into a war fortress. The powerful instrument of war charged around, crushing the blood demons.

    ¡°Where are my Moon Alliance members? Quickly get into your positions!¡± Yue Zhongtian also shouted, directing his war fortress to charge over and crush a bunch of blood demons.

    ¡°Gentlemen Association members...¡±

    ¡°Sky Capital Peak members...¡±

    The holy disciples also began showing their greatness one after another. On their own, they weren¡¯t strong enough to change the flow of the battle.

    After all, the battlefield, with mountains crumbling and earth cracking everywhere, was filled with frenzied enemies in the high-level Core Formation realm, their attacks causing thends to sink and the stars to fall.

    However, with their war fortresses, they could simultaneously attack and defend themselves well. Theirbat strength skyrocketed, allowing them to barge through the battlefield, ignoring the enemy attacks that covered the skies. They crushed their enemies, killing countless blood demons.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    With the holy disciples¡¯ activation of the war fortresses, the blood demons were immediately met with a huge cmity. Large swathes of blood demons were killed one after another.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo!</i>

    The Holy Prestige Horn rang out, signaling everyone from the sect to begin their counterattack. Immediately, the entire Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s morale soared, and they ughtered numerous blood demons, forcing them to scurry away with their heads between their arms in fear.

    The terrifying war fortresses causedrge pockets of air to copse, and even the space shook.

    These enormous peaks became fierce weapons for killing, ignoring everything and sweeping through, leaving blood mists in their wake.

    ......

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    The terrifying ax chopped down with devastating might, like Mount Tai. It fell, wrapped in an immense sea of blood, wanting to crush Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura surged. The illusory golden cores erupted fiercely as he thrust his spear, threatening to shatter the heavens. His spear was like an enormous pir, holding up the sky and the universe.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Terrifying explosions rang out one after another, followed by the terrifying forces storming out. No one dared to intervene in Chen Fan and Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s fight.

    The others even ran away from them.

    The exchange between them was too terrifying. The ripples from their sh could kill even Core Formation realm experts.

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡± Chen Fan roared. His voice rumbled, his qi and blood churning loudly.

    His strength surged. It erupted like ten thousand horses were galloping. Several terrifying killing moves swept across the sky, causing the people to feel their scalps turn numb.

    However, no one watched their fight, as everyone was engaged in their own battle. They would either kill or be killed. The slightest distraction would lead to their end.

 Chapter 508 - Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core

    <h4>Chapter 508 - Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s ax produced a terrifying light, with overwhelming blood qi stirring atop it.

    His moves were wide and fierce, each sh carrying immense power capable of slicing through stars and cleaving the heavens themselves. Even an ancient divine mountain would crumble under the force of his ax.

    Chen Fan, however, showed no sign of weakness. He was like a heavenly god of battle. His hand emanated golden light as he unleashed a colossal golden palm that shattered the ax''s light.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The terrifying collision set off fierce waves in the air.

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s cultivation was above Chen Fan¡¯s, reaching a terrifying level. While Chen Fan had grown strong enough to easily defeat ordinary ninth-level Core Formation realm experts, facing Young Master Xue Jia remained a daunting challenge.

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s umtion in the ninth-level Core Formation realm was too deep, far surpassing those at the same level. It had reached the level of one or two-revolution Golden Core.

    Reaching the ninth level wasn¡¯t a Core Formation realm martial artist¡¯s limit. Between the Core Formation realm and the Divine Nascent realm existed the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core, acting as the transition realm.

    Only by cultivating their golden core to an extreme level, reaching the nine-revolution realm, could they attempt to break through to the Divine Nascent realm.

    Young Master Xue Jia''s cultivation was at the ninth level, yet hisbat strength vastly exceeded that of ordinary ninth-level Core Formation experts. He had transcended the Core Formation realm but had yet to reach the Divine Nascent realm, indicating he was at the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core.

    Even at the one-revolution level, his strength was multiple times that of someone at the peak of the ninth level.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I¡¯ll kill you today!¡± Young Master Xue Jia roared; his aura grew even more ferocious. With a wave of his arm, the surrounding primeval qi of heaven and earth flowed and moved with him.

    Such techniques could typically only be achieved by those who had reached the Divine Nascent realm and could connect with nature.

    Although Young Master Xue Jia controlled only a small amount of the primeval qi of heaven and earth, it was enough to shock the people. It proved that he had indeed surpassed the ninth-level Core Formation realm and was at the level of the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying attack sted forward, smashing through Chen Fan''s defensive barrier like it was made of tofu, and sent him flying, crashing through several mountains.

    ¡°How is this possible? Even Senior Brother Chen Fan is no match for Young Master Xue Jia?!¡±

    Many Spring Autumn Sect disciples were shocked beyond words when they saw that.

    After all, Chen Fan had be the new idol of the Spring Autumn Sect, the number one figure among all the disciples. Having witnessed that unrivaled battle between Chen Fan and Duan Jingtian, everyone knew how terrifyingly powerful Chen Fan was.

    Young Master Xue Jia had also gained infamy by killing Li Fan, disying exceptional ferocity. However, the Spring Autumn Sect disciples still believed that even if Chen Fan couldn¡¯t defeat him, he wouldn¡¯t be defeated at the very least.

    So, the oue was like witnessing the end of the world for them. They couldn''t believe their eyes.

    <i>Rumble! </i>

    Despite being sent flying and crashing through mountains, Chen Fan''s injuries were not severe. He emerged from the debris, his aura as ferocious as ever, shaking heaven and earth, wielding the iron spear.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Chen Fan, I have to admit, you are indeed very powerful, even stronger than Li Fan. However, I am in the one-revolution Golden Core and will soon reach the two-revolution Golden Core. Regardless of your strength, you can¡¯t fight me.¡± Young Master Xue Jiaughed out loud.

    He waved his ax simply to destroy an attack from Chen Fan and continued, ¡°I am sure your fresh blood will be intoxicating. Ah, I can already feel my blood boiling. Good, very good, I¡¯ll suck all your blood after killing you. Perhaps that would be enough to cultivate a two-revolution Golden Core. Hahahaha!¡±

    A streak of blood drooped down from Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s ax, coalescing into several blood dragons that roared furiously. They shot forth, baring their fangs and ws, intent on tearing Chen Fan apart.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    An iprehensibly terrifying wave of qi surged forth. Mountains swayed and the ground trembled, threatening to crumble.

    <i>Boom chi!</i>

    A terrifying spear light pierced through the sky, shattering the blood dragons and hurtling toward Young Master Xue Jia.

    Chen Fan had no choice but to fight head-on.

    He pushed his cultivation to the limit. An otherworldly space-time appeared behind him. Numerous ancient giant elephants came running, the space echoing with their roars, like ten thousand horses were galloping.

    <i>Boom, rumble!</i>

    Using nearly all his strength, Chen Fan shocked heaven and earth, suppressing and copsing the ages. He was like a heavenly god traversing the world and exterminating the demons.

    Under the brilliance of the spear thrust that seemed capable of piercing heaven and earth, Young Master Xue Jia appeared minuscule.

    Then, Chen Fan struck out with his palm. A colossal golden hand illuminated the sky, radiating infinite golden light that cleansed all in its path.

    The mountain peaks crumbled apart, the mountains themselves cracked open, and house-sized boulders tumbled down.

    ¡°Hahahaha, it¡¯s useless. Today will be the day you die!¡± Young Master Xue Jiaughed maniacally, fearless in the face of Chen Fan¡¯s attack. Channeling his strength, he cleaved through space with his ax, shattering everything.

    As Chen Fan unleashed his full power, he engaged Young Master Xue Jia in a fierce battle. Heaven and earth shattered, the sun and the moon lost their light, and pockets of space became battlefields filled with destruction.

    The two were in a stalemate for a while.

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples'' anxiety eased as they saw Chen Fan holding his ground, unleashing even fiercer attacks and matching Young Master Xue Jia blow for blow.

    Had Chen Fan been defeated or killed by Young Master Xue Jia, it would have dealt a devastating blow to their morale.

    Unfortunately, no one could lend a hand to Chen Fan, as everyone was busy fighting.

    Among the grand elders, many were at the ninth level, with some even at the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm. However, the blood demons hade fully prepared, their ranks filled with experts, including many seniors in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had to endure until the battle among the four Divine Nascent realm powerhouses in the heavens concluded.

    The oue of this great struggle rested on them, as they held the key to determining the final result of this epic battle.

 Chapter 509 - Above the Nine Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 509 - Above the Nine Heavens</h4>

    A river of blood flowed as the Spring Autumn Sect faced the threat of annihtion.

    Everyone only saw red from all the killing.

    They had no choice but to fight; it was a battle of kill or be killed, with life and death hanging by a thread.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The ground before the Spring Autumn Sect''s entrance had turned into a hellish battlefield. Severed limbs flew everywhere, and blood sttered the ground like rain. Miserable screams, wails, and furious roars resounded non-stop.

    People fell inrge numbers every moment, both blood demons and Spring Autumn Sect disciples.

    The blood demons wanted to break into the Spring Autumn Sect and annihte them.

    The Spring Autumn Sect members wanted to defend their home and kill the invaders.

    Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Spring Autumn Sect warriors did not waver. There was no retreat, only the path forward to ughter more blood demons.

    The Spring Autumn Sect fighters became frenzied, their war fortresses charging ahead, exterminating the blood demons.

    The blood demons alsounched powerful counterattacks, unleashing terrifying attacks that tore through the sky and battered the war fortresses. Some weaker war fortresses broke apart after several rounds of bombardment, leading to countless deaths on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side.

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill! Disciples of Spring Autumn Sect, charge forward bravely and kill all these evil demons!¡± roared some Spring Autumn Sect elders and holy disciples furiously. Their powerful techniques swept across the battlefield, blowing up the blood demons and turning them into mists of blood.

    ¡°Kill, kill all our enemies!¡±

    ¡°Die!¡±

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples were drenched in blood, their auras reaching the skies. They didn¡¯t let up in the slightest, stopping wave after wave of the blood demon army¡¯s charge. The scene could only be described as extremely tragic.

    Despite the alliance of the four great sects in Qingyang, the blood demons hadunched a meticulously nned attack to eliminate the Spring Autumn Sect in one decisive blow.

    Simultaneously, the other three great sects also found themselves besieged by the blood demons. Though their situations were not as dire as that of the Spring Autumn Sect, they were unable to provide immediate assistance.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had no choice but to rely solely on its strength.

    Above the nine heavens, a terrifying storm blew. This was definitely not a ce where Core Formation realm experts coulde, not even those in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core.

    The storm blowing above the nine heavens was a storm of destion.

    Without cultivation in the Divine Nascent realm, let alone being unable toe up, even if one managed toe to the nine heavens, the storm would destroy their physique and psyche.

    Destion here meant absolute annihtion.

    Below on the battlefield, the carnage was unimaginable. The cries for bloodshed echoed incessantly. And although only four people fought in the nine heavens, the scene caused by their huge battle was on par, if not more, devastating than below.

    The four Divine Nascent realm powerhouses¡¯ cultivation had long since reached a majestic level. A simple movement from them could turn the primeval qi of heaven and earth into a terrifying means of attack, transform into mountains, stars, a sea of mes, and other terrifying methods.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Deafening noises resounded. The resulting storm from their attacks crushed the blowing storm of destion.

    The fight taking ce here would decide the victory and defeat of the huge battle on the whole.

    ¡°sh!¡± Feng Baiyu brandished an ancient, in saber, his gaze icy. His saber qi soared, erupting inyers of dazzling saber light enveloped in boundless primeval qi. It turned into an extremely terrifying saber light, shing out at once.

    If anyone below witnessed this attack, their souls would surely tremble in shock. It could effortlessly cleave an expert in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless. Although the overall battle hinges on this, if we kill off all the Spring Autumn Sect disciples below, leaving only you two, the sect will exist in name alone!¡± Facing Feng Baiyu¡¯s earth-shaking attack, his opponent, a blood demon simrly in the Divine Nascent realm, showed no signs of panic at all. He wore a cold smile, and his immense blood qi rolled across the sky, turning into a blood-colored shield and blocking the attacks.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The terrifying saber light collided with the blood shield, triggering a world-shaking explosion.

    Their forces shed violently, canceling each other out. The blood shield crumbled, and the saber light dispersed, leaving both fighters unscathed.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, three thousand years ago, our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s ancestors killed you demons. Today, I, Feng Baiyu, will do the same. Meet your death!¡±

    To reach Feng Baiyu and the others¡¯ realm, one¡¯s mind had to be very stable and firm. Something that mere taunts couldn¡¯t shake.

    ¡°Since you wish to die, I¡¯ll grant you your wish!¡± said the Divine Nascent realm blood demon coldly. His aura intensified, and behind him, a sea of blood churned, forming several terrifying blood dragons that swept across the sky.

    ¡°Blood Dragon Spear, break!¡± This Divine Nascent realm blood demon grabbed at the empty air. The sea of blood behind him immediately tumbled. A blood spear rose from the sea of blood as it churned. It brimmed with a terrifying aura as it shot toward Feng Baiyu.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air quaked as an overwhelming force surged forth, threatening to obliterate Feng Baiyu.

    Feng Baiyu was like a small boat amid surging tides. He swung his saber, unleashing a torrent of terrifying saber light that cut through the sea of blood. He shed violently, immediately cutting down the countless blood dragon¡¯s heads and deflecting the iing blood spear.

    <i>C!</i>

    The terrifying saber light crushed everything in its path, finally falling on the Divine Nascent realm blood demon. It carved a deep, bloody gash down to the bone, exposing pulsating organs.

    ¡°Ah!¡± screamed the Divine Nascent realm blood demon as fresh blood spattered. He was sent flying, and the terrifying saber qi and saber intent erupted inside his wound, wreaking havoc inside him.

    On the other side, High Elder Yun Tu was also engaged in a fierce battle with his opponent, matching the intensity of Feng Baiyu¡¯s fight.

    The Divine Nascent realm powerhouses¡¯ life forces were too powerful. As long as the gap between their cultivation and strength wasn¡¯t too wide, a battle between two such powerhouses would be like a game of tug of war, a contest of foundations and willpower

    Yun Tu struck out with a palm. The terrifying strength seemed to gain actual substance. It descended to shatter heavens and annihte time, aiming to suppress and y his opponent.

    An overwhelming bloody light rushed out from the sea of blood and sted Yun Tu¡¯s palm strike. The fierce collision caused heaven and earth to change colors.

    The deste winds werepletely silenced. Above the nine heavens, only the terrifying storm generated from the four Divine Nascent realm powerhouses¡¯ shes remained.

    Feng Baiyu¡¯s gaze pierced through the void to see the fight below. The Spring Autumn Sect disciples had fallen into a disadvantaged position, suffering heavy casualties. He furrowed his brow tightly.

    They needed to end things quickly on their end.

    Otherwise, as his opponent had warned, if all Spring Autumn Sect disciples perished, the sect would exist in name only, and Feng Baiyu, as sect leader, would bear the guilt of this catastrophe.

    Thinking up until this point, Feng Baiyu¡¯s murderous intent grew even more intense. The saber qi around him became even fiercer and violent. Stepping forward, the space shrunk as he appeared in front of the Divine Nascent realm blood demon, shing at him.

    ¡°Die!¡±

 Chapter 510 â€“ Stalemate

    <h4>Chapter 510 ¨C Stalemate</h4>

    <i>C!</i>

    The space shattered as Feng Baiyu''s saber shed down with increasing ferocity, his aura intensifying with each strike.

    The Divine Nascent realm blood demon roared furiously, unleashing a terrifying aura andunching a full-scale assault. The demon unleashed terrifying martial skills. A blood-colored halberd appeared in the sky, emanating a terrifying light, and rushed toward Feng Baiyu.

    Feng Baiyu remained calm like a mountain and shed multiple times, unleashing several streaks of saber qi.

    Those terrifying saber qi instantly shattered the halberd with unrivaled might.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Another strike followed, sending the Divine Nascent realm blood demon''s skinny figure hurtling through the air, crashing through a section of the storm of destion.

    Seeing his ally thrown off bnce by Feng Baiyu''s onught, the expression of the Divine Nascent realm blood demon battling Yun Tu darkened momentarily, creating an opening in his defense.

    Seizing the opportunity, Yun Tu unleashed a devastating palm strike as his cultivation surged. The sound of tendons snapping and bones breaking rang out, and the other demon also followed in the footsteps of his ally.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    ¡°Curses!¡±

    The two Divine Nascent realm blood demons steadied themselves, spewing blood from their mouths. They looked to be in a sorry state as they stared viciously at Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu.

    Although the two were injured, it wasn¡¯t anything life-threatening, and their foundations were still unharmed.

    The two had nned on dragging things out until the battle below ended. They would rely on their numerical advantage to kill all their disciples and elders, which would be the same as wiping out the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Killing Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu was never part of their n.

    After all, the life force of those in the Divine Nascent realm was very powerful, and both sides were equally matched. Killing them would be a tall task.

    If Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu were the only ones left alive, they would be likemanders without an army. The Spring Autumn Sect would only exist in name, and they would have achieved their objective.

    While the demons wanted a long, fierce struggle, the other side wasn¡¯t keen on that idea.

    Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu had unleashed their cultivation and injured the blood demons. If they were to receive a few more hits, they could die.

    ......

    The people below couldn¡¯t see the battle above. They could only sense the terrifying auras stirring and falling, which left their souls trembling.

    Everyone was aware that the fight above could only be described by one word: terrifying. Divine Nascent realm powerhouses could perform unreal feats. A battle between such beings would surely shake the heavens, and make the ghosts weep and gods wail.

    Suddenly, an authoritative voice came from above the nine heavens.

    ¡°Heed my orders, all blood demons. Kill all the disciples and elders of the Spring Autumn Sect as soon as possible!¡±

    Immediately, the blood demon army grew impassioned. They fought with everything they had, charging frenziedly and killing the Spring Autumn Sect disciples.

    Since theirmander had given orders, they had to do as told and ughter the Spring Autumn Sect disciples and elders as soon as possible.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A thunderous roar reverberated through the space, violently shaking the surroundings.

    Mountains shattered and crumbled one after another, fissures split open the earth, and the ground became soaked with fresh blood, forming a crimson sea. Blood qi surged into the sky, dyeing it a deep red.

    An even fiercer and more tragic battle erupted. The blood demons fought with fierce determination, while the Spring Autumn Sect members matched them blow for blow.

    ¡°You will die today! I will go take care of those minions after killing you. Your Spring Autumn Sect will turn into a river of blood and be exterminated!¡± Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s aura surged. Waves of blood erupted from him.

    He had heard themand as well, so he had to bring down Chen Fan as soon as possible and free himself up to go ughter the other experts.

    Now, both sides were engaged in a bloody battle, engaged in a relentless tug of war where neither could gain the upper hand. Someone needed to break this bnce.

    This mission naturally fell on Xue Jia. Someone had to break this deadlock, and that responsibility fell squarely on him.

    ¡°Since you wish to die, I shall grant your wish! Today, none of you demons shall leave! I¡¯m afraid you also won¡¯t live to see tomorrow.¡± Chen Fan looked at Young Master Xue Jia coldly, matching his harshness with equal resolve. His movements did not slow down at all,unching a ferocious attack at Young Master Xue Jia.

    Chen Fan materialized a gigantic golden seal in his hand and mmed it forward, destroying Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s terrifying bloody light.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, a big talker, aren¡¯t you? Whatever, I have yed with you enough; time to end this. I shall end your life and bring your legend to an end!¡± Young Master Xue Jia roared furiously, his voice shaking the universe. With unparalleled momentum, he raised his ax high, which emitted a bloody light. A towering sea of blood covered the sky, looking very terrifying.

    It was like an invincible aura.

    The aura suppressed Chen Fan, and the flow of his true primeval became a little rough. He remained calm and resolute. With a furious roar, he activated his divine art.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace operated at full capacity, refining blood demon cores into pure essence, making Chen Fan¡¯s aura surge violently.

    ¡°Break!¡± He stabbed his spear out violently, shaking thends and mountains. The heavens copsed, andrge areas of air were vaporized.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan destroyed Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s attack with one spear, an utterly shocking disy of power. Young Master Xue Jia had unleashed his full strength, hoping to overwhelm him quickly and crush him under a relentless onught. Yet, he shattered the demon¡¯s attack in an instant.

    ¡°How is this possible? How could your strength increase so much?¡± Young Master Xue Jia roared furiously, his tone filled with shock.

    He realized that Chen Fan¡¯s strength had skyrocketed.

    Chen Fan was no match for him; suddenly, he received a huge boost in strength as if he had ignited his life force, fighting him as an equal.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, my methods aren¡¯t something a demon like you could ever imagine. Go to hell!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, not relenting. Wielding his spear, he stepped across the space, heading for Young Master Xue Jia. Thrusting his arm forward, he stabbed out violently with earth-shattering strength.

    Chen Fan was at thete stage of the eighth level, but his umtion was very deep. Had he wanted, he could have advanced to the ninth level before the war broke out.

    Now that a huge battle had erupted, and the Spring Autumn Sect was in a critical situation, someone needed to step forward and break this bnce. He had no choice but to refine blood demon cores madly while fighting.

    His cultivation had advanced again, reaching the peak of his current level.

    At his level, the slightest progress in cultivation would bring about a drastic improvement in hisbat strength. With his cultivation improving significantly, the huge gap in strength between him and Young Master Xue Jia closed.

    A sacred light erupted from Chen Fan. His flesh and blood produced the hissing sounds of dragon-elephants. From a distance, he resembled a war deity, standing resolute between heaven and earth¡ªan unmatched presence exuding calmness and determination.

 Chapter 511 - Do It Now

    <h4>Chapter 511 - Do It Now</h4>

    When the disciples noticed Chen Fan¡¯s sudden surge in strength, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s morale soared, though some were curious about the source of that power.

    Chen Fan had been on the defensive against Young Master Xue Jia, barely escaping and suffering grievous wounds. How did he suddenly unleash such formidable power to neutralize Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s devastating attack?

    Regardless, this was good news for them.

    Young Master Xue Jia stared at Chen Fan with an ugly expression. He could sense a terrifying auraing from Chen Fan. In the blink of an eye, Chen Fan had closed the gap in strength between them.

    This developmentplicated Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s ns to defeat Chen Fan and break the current deadlock swiftly.

    The eighteenthmander of the blood demon army had passed down his decree to have them quickly ughter the Spring Autumn Sect members.

    The twomanders also felt great pressure in their fight. It would be very disadvantageous for them if things dragged out for too long below.

    ¡°Young Master Xue Jia, our fight has just begun!¡± Chen Fan said indifferently. However, everyone could catch the confidence in that statement. Now that hisbat strength had skyrocketed, he no longer feared his opponent.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Young Master Xue Jia felt like Chen Fan was looking down on him; it enraged him. He was a peak-stage one-revolution Golden Core expert!

    His blood qi surged violently, and a bloody light rushed to the skies, shocking heaven and earth.

    His ax tore through the void, with enough power to make the stars fall like raindrops. He instantly flitted across the sky, reaching Chen Fan and shing at him.

    Chen Fan stabbed his spear out violently, as if provoking the whole of Hell.

    His blood burned, the air boiled, and the space roared furiously. Terrifying strength erupted from him, shaking thends and the mountains.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their attacks collided, and it seemed like stars were exploding, the sun was being destroyed, and heaven and earth were copsing.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s aura soared. Taking imposing steps forward, he was like an ancient giant elephant walking out from the depths of space-time, trampling it. The space rumbled loudly.

    His muscles bulged with every movement, unleashing formidable power that coalesced into a wide, roaring river, stirring ancient giant beasts awake.

    ¡°You abominable brat, I¡¯ll chop off your head today and use it as a wine cup!¡± Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s voice rumbled angrily, shaking the space. His strength erupted, rocking the space.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    Young Master Xue Jia moved like a demonic deity, each step reverberating like that of a colossal hundred-thousand-foot giant. Heaven and earth boomed with a deafening noise, shocking everyone.

    He was going all out. His ax erupted with an extremely heavy and sharp aura, tearing through the air as he shed violently. It felt as if the universe itself might copse and vanish beneath its weight.

    ¡°Heaven Splitting Chop!¡±

    Chen Fan remained fearless. His iron spear surged with terrifying strength. The spear light pierced through space-time, destroying the heavenly river. A terrifying energy fluctuation swept across the heavens.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    It was a cataclysmic collision. Boundless forces erupted, rending heaven and earth apart.

    Bothbatants had decided to go all out.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    <i>Rumble, rumble...</i>

    A series of explosions rang out non-stop.

    The battlefield was a scene of utter devastation.

    Terrifying fluctuations swept through heaven, earth, andnd. A quick nce would make one''s scalp tingle and soul tremble.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Both Chen Fan and Young Master Xue Jia were consumed by rage. They were the linchpins of this stalemate; the one who fell would determine the battle''s oue.

    ¡°Ahhh, die for me!¡±

    Young Master Xue Jia had never expected Chen Fan to be so troublesome. He was so furious that his face was twisted. He struck even more viciously. Streaks of terrifying ax light ravaged heaven and earth, destroying everything.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan remained silent, but his movements were as quick as ever. He neutralized Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s fearsome attacks repeatedly,unching asional counter attacks that left his opponent flustered.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Terrifying shockwaves rolled out. No one dared toe within five kilometers of the two, fearing the deadly aftermath.

    The terrifying force pushed the two back, but they immediately steadied themselves and dove right back in, producing an earth-shaking, huge explosion.

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura was unparalleled. The Heaven Seizing Furnace refined blood demon cores frenziedly, replenishing his strength endlessly.

    After several terrifying collisions, not only did his aura not weaken, it grew stronger instead.

    ¡°How is this possible? How is his aura getting stronger?!¡± Young Master Xue Jia was shaken to the core. After a fierce fight, his aura had somewhat weakened, but Chen Fan¡¯s was bing increasingly vigorous.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you don¡¯t need to know that. What you should know is that you will die today!¡± Chen Fan said with an icy voice, and his gaze sharp. Stepping forth, his true primeval exploded, and he shot forward fiercely. The air rumbled like thunder.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan was like a heavenly god, undefeated in countless battles across heaven and earth. Now, Young Master Xue Jia was challenging his prestige. Chen Fan intended to crush him utterly, disying his divine prowess.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Several spear lights charged forth, brimming with destructive force, streaking across the sky toward Young Master Xue Jia.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>! Shatter for me!¡± Young Master Xue Jia roared as he drove his energy furiously, waving his arms. Several terrifying ax lights shed out as if to cleave heaven and earth apart, colliding with the spear lights.

    However, he was no longer in peak condition. His aura waned slightly, and he had also expended huge amounts of true primeval. Meanwhile, Chen Fan¡¯s every attack wasunched at the peak of his strength, and it only grew increasingly powerful.

    Chen Fan¡¯s attacks destroyed Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s ax lights and continued toward him.

    ¡°Damn it, annihte!¡± Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s expression sank. He channeled his strength once more, finally shattering Chen Fan¡¯s attacks.

    However, Chen Fan had already appeared before him, emanating an extremely icy killing intent. No emotions could be seen in his gaze as he thrust his spear at Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s head.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s expression darkened, even revealing a trace of panic.

    Nevertheless, as a seasoned veteran of battle, Young Master Xue Jia swiftly erected a formidable defense. The sea of blood behind him surged forth, cascading towards Chen Fan.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The spear light instantly destroyed the sea of blood. With a rumble, it shattered Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s wall of true primeval. The tremendous force struck him, apanied by the sickening sound of tendons snapping and bones breaking. He was hurled five kilometers away, blood spraying from his mouth, and his chest caved in.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people immediately became full of spirits. Their momentum shook the skies as they all felt inspired and erupted violently. All of a sudden, the blood demons¡¯ side suffered heavy losses, with miserable screams ringing out everywhere.

    ¡°Senior Brother Chen Fan is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Spring Autumn Sect is invincible!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people roared furiously, their voices shaking the heavens.

    Chen Fan showed no change in expression. He looked at Young Master Xue Jia indifferently, wielding the iron spear. His figure flickered, chasing after him.

    He wanted to kill Young Master Xue Jia and change the current situation.

    Seeing Chen Fan pursuing him relentlessly, Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s eyes shed with a cold light. He immediately cried out, ¡°Do it, now!¡±

    A shocking change happened as soon as those words came out.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable scream resounded throughout the world.

 Chapter 512 - A Desperate, Hopeless Situation?

    <h4>Chapter 512 - A Desperate, Hopeless Situation?</h4>

    ¡°Do it, now!¡±

    A sudden and shocking event unfolded on the battlefield.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream resounded throughout the world.

    Immediately, chaos engulfed the ranks of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, what are you doing?¡± A furious roar shook the heavens.

    ¡°What am I doing? I¡¯m killing people, of course. Can¡¯t you see that!¡± Duan Jingtian smiled eerily, thrusting his halberd again, striking down a ninth-level Core Formation realm grand elder with swift brutality, not even leaving a corpse behind.

    This unexpected betrayal threw the Spring Autumn Sect into disarray.

    No one could have anticipated that Duan Jingtian would treacherously attack one of their own.

    There weren¡¯t many ninth-level Core Formation realm grand elders in the entire sect, so they were crucial for their defense against the Blood Demon Cave. The loss could break the current stalemate, causing the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side to slip into a dangerous situation.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Another miserable scream rang out.

    Caught off guard by the betrayal, the Spring Autumn Sect faltered momentarily. The Blood Demon Cave¡¯s side immediately seized the opportunity and heavily injured several grand elders.

    Many Spring Autumn Sect disciples were also caught off guard and were killed off one after another. A rain of blood spattered; wailings could be heard everywhere.

    With this betrayal, the stalemate was shattered, plunging the Spring Autumn Sect into a dire crisis.

    The higher-ups had barely fended off the blood demons¡¯ attacks. So, the murder of a ninth-level Core Formation realm grand elder and the severe injury of several other high-level elders drastically weakened their defenses. They could no longer resist the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s experts.

    ¡°Ah, damn it, Duan Jingtian, you deserve to die! You defected to the Blood Demon Cave; you deserve to die a thousand deaths for your sins!¡± Thew enforcement grand elder had always been upright and hated evil. His voice and aura reverberated through the heavens as he struck out with a powerful palm strike aimed at Duan Jingtian, shaking the heavens.

    Thew enforcement grand elder was the strongest member of the Spring Autumn Sect, aside from the two Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. As a supreme expert of the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm, his enraged attack had the potential to obliterate stars and shatter the universe.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s expression darkened, but he was not afraid.

    He was a gifted child of the heavens. With his immense strength, a single strike wasn¡¯t enough to kill him.

    ¡°Break!¡± Duan Jingtian shed with his halberd, breaking apart the attack.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression also changed drastically.

    This turn of events also caught him off guard. The saboteur, nted by the Blood Demon Cave within the Spring Autumn Sect, had finally revealed himself.

    The revtion had thrown the Spring Autumn Sect into a hopeless situation.

    Chen Fan finally learned the identity of the spy inside the Spring Autumn Sect. It wasn¡¯t the sect elder, the merit elder, or the others.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, very good. Kill them, wipe out the Spring Autumn Sectpletely!¡± The eighteenthmander of the blood demonsughed out loud from above the nine heavens, his voice resounding throughout the world.

    Meanwhile, Feng Baiyu¡¯s expression turnedpletely frosty.

    He had never suspected his favored disciple to be from the Blood Demon Cave, delivering a fatal blow to the Spring Autumn Sect at the critical moment. It was infuriating¡ªDuan Jingtian deserved to die!

    An intense look of regret appeared on Feng Baiyu¡¯s face.

    Had he known Duan Jingtian was from the Blood Demon Cave, he never would have protected him. He would have allowed Chen Fan to kill Duan Jingtian earlier, preventing this catastrophe.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Feng Baiyu, didn¡¯t expect that, did you? Haha, you spent all that time doing your best to nurture him and even saved his life not too long ago. This is my thank-you present for that. How is it? It must be a surprise, huh!¡± The eighteenth blood demonmanderughed out loud, hoping to provoke Feng Baiyu into making a mistake.

    ¡°All of you deserve to die!¡± Feng Baiyu¡¯s gaze became iparably icy. The storm of destion in the nine heavens froze as an icy intent capable of nearly freezing the universe erupted, causing the eighteenth blood demonmander''s eyes to narrow in rm.

    The eighteenth blood demonmander knew that Feng Baiyu was thoroughly enraged.

    ......

    ¡°Hahahaha, good job, Duan Jingtian. You did very well to achieve merit for the holy cult. After we wipe out the Spring Autumn Sect, the holy cult will surely reward you generously!¡± Young Master Xue Jiaughed out loud.

    ¡°All of you deserve to die!¡± Chen Fan shouted. The sound of him gnashing his teeth rang out and a terrifying chilling intent erupted from him.

    ¡°Die? Chen Fan, I have to admit you are indeed very strong, but now, victory no longer belongs to you. The Spring Autumn Sect is destined to be destroyed.

    ¡° I can offer you a way out. Pledge your allegiance to our holy cult, and you''ll be spared. Our cult is always willing to ept talents like you. What do you say?" Young Master Xue Jia smiled.

    Chen Fan''s response was swift and fierce¡ªa thrust of his spear.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    This attack shook heaven and earth, causing the ghosts and gods to weep, the winds and clouds to roll backward, the heaven to fall, and the earth to crack open. Young Master Xue Jia smelled the aura of death and his expression darkened, forcing him to dodge the attack.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The terrifying attack struck a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain and pierced through it. The entire mountain blew up, reduced to countless rocks. The whole of the Spring Autumn Sect felt the ground shaking for some time.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was now in a dire crisis. Chen Fan needed to kill Young Master Xue Jia immediately, freeing himself to handle the disaster.

    ¡°What are you waiting for, Duan Jingtian? Let¡¯s strike together and kill him!¡± Young Master Xue Jia immediately roared. Hisplexion changed slightly, ncing at the ttened mountain, feeling deeply shaken inside.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Duan Jingtian and another blood demon expert in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm flew over, hoping to bring Chen Fan down together by surrounding him.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had lost a ninth-level Core Formation realm grand elder, and three others were heavily injured, severelypromising theirbat strength. So, the blood demons could spare an expert or two for this fight.

    ¡°Duan Jingtian, I knew there was a spy in our sect long ago, but I never expected it to be you. If I had known, I would have ughtered you back then!¡± Chen Fan said coldly, staring at Duan Jingtian with an icy gaze.

    Chen Fan wanted to buy some time. Given his current strength, he couldn¡¯t handle the siege of three experts unless he advanced to the ninth level.

    ¡°Unfortunately for you, that chance is gone. I need to thank the sect leader for stepping in. Otherwise, things wouldn¡¯t have gone so smoothly for our holy cult¡¯s attack today,¡± Duan Jingtian said coldly. ¡°But it''s pointless to regret now. Everyone, including you, will die. The Spring Autumn Sect will be annihted!"

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother wasting your breath on him. Let¡¯s strike together and kill him, in case things go awry!¡± Another one-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert said with a savage expression.

 Chapter 513 - Ninth-Level Core Formation Realm

    <h4>Chapter 513 - Ninth-Level Core Formation Realm</h4>

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother wasting your breath on him. Let¡¯s strike together and kill him, in case things go awry!¡± growled Xue Cang, a one-revolution Golden Core blood demon, with a savage expression.

    He decided to take the lead and attacked immediately. With a swift motion, he materialized a colossal, bloody hand from thin air, which descended on Chen Fan with overwhelming power.

    Although Xue Cang wasn¡¯t as strong as Young Master Xue Jia, his cultivation allowed him to mobilize a small amount of the primeval qi of heaven and earth. This enabled him to strike with formidable momentum.

    Heaven fell and earth cracked as a terrifying aura appeared.

    The blood-colored hand swept down, threatening to crush Chen Fan and everything around him into oblivion.

    But Chen Fan wasn''t one to passively face death. He had subdued a peak one-revolution Golden Core expert, Xue Jia, so there was no way Xue Cang could kill him with such a simple attack.

    He thrust his arm, and a terrifying spear light flew out. It destroyed everything in its path as it hurtled toward therge bloody hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying force erupted, ripping thatrge bloody hand apart and turning it into boundless blood-colored primeval qi, which dissipated into the air. The bloody light dyed half the sky red as if the heavens were weeping tears of blood.

    ¡°It seems you don¡¯t intend to join our holy cult. Fine, destruction it is, then!¡±

    Although Chen Fan had injured Young Master Xue Jia, it wasn¡¯t anything severe. Hisbat strength didn¡¯t dip by much. He immediately channeled his cultivation and erupted with absolute pressure and attacked.

    His axe descended violently. It unleashed a devastating energy that surged through space, aiming to crush Chen Fan with the power to move mountains and part seas.

    The force contained in this ax was much more terrifying than the blood-colored hand.

    If Chen Fan only had to face Young Master Xue Jia, he would have had nothing to fear. However, Duan Jingtian and Xue Cang had alsounched their attacks simultaneously. Their techniques were earth-shattering and tore the skies apart. If theynded on Chen Fan, he would be crippled even if he survived.

    Chen Fan knew he couldn''t afford to take theirbined assault head-on, despite his immense strength.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    As the mountains trembled and the seas roared, Chen Fan acted swiftly.

    ¡°Break!¡± With a decisive stab, he shattered Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s attack, then summoned the Purgatory Divine Halberd with his left hand to cleave through Xue Cang¡¯s onught.

    But as Duan Jingtian¡¯s formidable strike bore down on him, Chen Fan had no choice but to summon the Wind and Cloud Banners for protection.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sh was thunderous. Duan Jingtian¡¯s relentless assault battered the defensive banners, designed to withstand such onughts. Yet even they struggled against the ruthless power of a ninth-level Core Formation expert like Duan Jingtian.

    The force seeped through the Wind and Cloud Banners, striking Chen Fan and making him cough up blood.

    The Spring Autumn Sect members looked to be in despair, unable to assist their champion against such overwhelming odds.

    The Blood Demon Cave¡¯s experts held back the grand elders. The enemies held a numerical advantage, so the elders simply had no way to aid Chen Fan.

    ¡°st through the Wind and Cloud Banners and kill him!¡± Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s gaze emitted an eerie chill as he nced at Chen Fan, protected by the Wind and Cloud Banners. He shed several times violently with his ax, each of them containing the power to split heaven and earth apart, falling on the banners.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    The three attacked the Wind and Cloud Banners frantically. Even though the Wind and Cloud Banners was an exceptional Grade-4 treasure, under such fierce bombardment, it broke and its defensive strength fell sharply.

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s Heaven Splitting Ax was a Grade-5 treasure, and Duan Jingtian possessed numerous treasures. Even though Chen Fan had taken his Purgatory Divine Halberd, the halberd he wasn¡¯t all that inferior to it, being an exceptional Grade-4 treasure.

    As for Xue Cang, he wielded two blood-colored Chinese swordbreaker, named Blood God Swordbreaker. [1]

    Although they were only replicas of the real Blood God Swordbreaker, they were still ordinary Grade-4 treasures capable of shattering mountains with their strikes.

    The Wind and Cloud Banners failed to withstand the trio¡¯s indiscriminate bombardment.

    However, Chen Fan didn¡¯t have time to feel heartache over it. He needed to sacrifice the Wind and Cloud Banners to buy precious time for himself.

    If he advanced to the ninth level, he could deal with his dangerous situation instantly.

    Blood demon cores were refined one after another, transformed into rolling vitality essences, spreading to his limbs like a flood and boiling.

    His aura kept boiling and rising.

    He was already at the doorsteps of the ninth level. He would be a peak existence under the Divine Nascent realm after crossing that threshold. Taking on a one or two-revolution Golden Core realm expert wouldn¡¯t be a tall task for him.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan felt a furnace burning fiercely with the intensity of heaven and earth inside him. Magma-like energy surged within him as blood demon cores were rapidly refined into pure vitality essence. He was working the Heaven Seizing Furnace to its limit.

    Inside his dantian, his golden core spun rapidly, emitting a humming sound. Wisps of true primeval converged and entered his golden core, making it swell and expand continuously.

    Powerful true primeval flowed in his meridians, burning up and blowing up as it circted, constantly refining itself.

    <i>Hurry! Faster!</i> Chen Fan roared furiously in his heart.

    The Wind and Cloud Banners were about to give way. It would be dangerous if he failed to advance to the ninth level.

    Blood demon cores and regr demon cores were being refined away. An enormous number of primeval stones shattered, releasing a storm of primeval qi around Chen Fan. It was as if he had be a ck hole, swallowing the massive amounts of qi.

    ¡°Not good, he¡¯s trying to break through! Hurry, destroy the Wind and Cloud Banners¡¯ protection at once. We¡¯ll be in big trouble if he breaks through!¡±

    Although the trio couldn¡¯t see Chen Fan since he was surrounded by the Wind and Cloud Banners, they could sense the shocking fluctuationsing from within.

    Chen Fan was already so terrifyingly powerful while at the peak of the eighth level, strong enough to fight a peak one-revolution Golden Core expert. So, he would only be stronger with each advancement. They might not be able to suppress and defeat him then.

    Therefore, the trio immediately attacked without reservations, sending devastating attacks to destroy the Wind and Cloud Banners.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack!</i>

    The Wind and Cloud Banners began shaking under the bombardment.

    Both parties were fighting for time. Every second mattered.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s true primeval struck the barrier that stood before the ninth-level Core Formation realm. Though it was a sturdy wall, under Chen Fan''s relentless assault, it began to tear like paper.

    ¡°Open for me!¡± Young Master Xue Jia roared furiously. His Heaven Splitting Ax expanded and attacked the damaged Wind and Cloud Banners. With a rumble, the Wind and Cloud Banners broke.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    In that same moment, the energy inside Chen Fan erupted like floodwaters breaching a dam, shaking heaven and earth. The barrier to the ninth-level Core Formation realm copsed.

    It was like a thousand-mile-long dam crumbling from a single ant''s hole, shattering instantly and disappearing like smoke. A surge of momentum exploded into the sky, forcing the trio to pull back.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Chen Fan roared to the skies. A wave of strength surged through him, burning and boiling like a towering wave.

    An invisible wave of qi stormed out. The surrounding space boomed, and the air exploded by the inch, forming a vacuum.

    Chen Fan had finally advanced to the ninth level.

    1. The ïµ/jian, also known as Chinese swordbreaker or Chinese truncheon is a type of quad-edged straight mace or club specifically designed to break weapons with sharp edges. The traditional Chinese weapon has a rectangr cross section with sharp corners, making it ideal to focus on damaging other weapons with brutal impact. ?

 Chapter 514 - Great Boost in Morale

    <h4>Chapter 514 - Great Boost in Morale</h4>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    It was as if the floodgates had opened inside Chen Fan. His true primeval energy surged a thousand miles, rolling and roiling inside him.

    Chen Fan''s aura reached an extreme, stirring the winds and clouds, causing the very colors of heaven and earth to shift.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± His voice thundered like a tempest as an invisible wave of qi burst forth, churning and tumbling the space around him. The air exploded, creating a vacuum in its wake.

    The trio had destroyed the Wind and Cloud Banners and were about to deal the killing blow to Chen Fan. However, their satisfaction was short-lived as they were forcefully pushed back by the qi wave. Their protective barriers shattered, leaving them reeling, their qi, blood, and lungs shaken.

    The trio¡¯s expressions immediately darkened.

    They had known that Chen Fan was using the Wind and Cloud Banners¡¯ defensive power to buy time to advance to the next level. However, they didn¡¯t expect him to seed so soon.

    It seemed almost unbelievable, but the overwhelming oppressive strength emanating from Chen Fan confirmed that he had indeed seeded.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± Young Master Xue Jia''s disbelief was evident on his face.

    They only took half an incense stick¡¯s worth of time to destroy the Wind and Cloud Banners. How did Chen Fan advance in such a short period?

    Duan Jingtian and Xue Cang¡¯s expressions also sank.

    Chen Fan was already terrifying enough before he made the breakthrough, requiring the three of them to join forces to suppress him. Now, hisbat strength had soared. How could they still suppress him?

    ¡°Hahahaha, good! Good! Good!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side had fallen into a huge crisis; seeing Chen Fan advance to the ninth level, Wei Buyu and the othersughed out loud on the spot.

    There was hope now!

    ¡°Senior Brother Chen Fan is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Chen Fan is mighty!¡±

    ¡°Kill all the demonic beings!¡±

    The disciples of the Spring Autumn Sect were energized, roaring with renewed vigor. Their morale surged, immediately halting the advance of the blood demon army.

    ¡°And what ns have you three made for your deaths?¡± Chen Fan said, his icy gaze falling on Young Master Xue Jia and the others.

    The trio felt as though they were being hunted by an ancient, savage beast. A chill ran down their spines, sending a shiver to their very cores.

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t care less about their worries and fears. With a swift kick, he exploded into motion. In a blur, he appeared before them in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan stabbed out with his spear, shattering the stars and copsing the heavens.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A towering wave rolled up in space, crushing over like ten thousand horses galloping.

    The sheer force of the spatial wave made the trio feel as if Mount Tai was pressing down on them, not to mention the terrifying spear light.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying explosion rang out, and a wave of qi swept out.

    Young Master Xue Jia and the others were instantly sent flying. They couldn¡¯t steady themselves and spewedrge mouthfuls of blood, crashing into and shattering a mountain.

    This spear attack simply shocked everyone, their eyeballs nearly bursting.

    The crowd never expected Chen Fan to be this terrifying after reaching the ninth level.

    A single attack had destroyed the trio¡¯s defenses and sent them flying. They werepletely powerless to resist.

    ¡°<i>Hiss</i>! So terrifying, so terrifying! I didn¡¯t expect Senior Brother Chen Fan to be so terrifyingly powerful after advancing. He¡¯s simply invincible!¡±

    ¡°Wonderful, truly wonderful! First Senior Brother Chen Fan is so terrifyingly powerful. He can definitely turn our situation around!¡±

    ¡°Haha, calling him First Senior Brother Chen Fan is very talented. You¡¯re right. With First Senior Brother Chen Fan here, we can turn our unfavorable situation around. It¡¯s time for these demonic beings to feel despair and terror.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, brothers and sisters, follow First Senior Brother Chen Fan''s lead! We won''t let these demonic beings look down on us. Fight with all your might! Kill them all!"

    ¡°......¡±

    The momentum on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side reached a peak suddenly. Everyone was inspired and became unyielding, suppressing the blood demon army.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, very good! If even the youngsters aren¡¯t afraid, what reason do we old-timers have to fear? Kill, kill with all your might!¡± Some grand elders were also inspired, and their blood began boiling as if they had returned to their youth. Their momentum was unparalleled, daring to fight and risk their lives.

    ¡°Haha, you have a point, old man. We old-timers can''t let the youngsters show us up! Today, I shall cut down a ninth-level blood demon to celebrate!¡± Another grand elder shouted with vigor. His hot blood boiled and his aura surged. His attacks became iparably fierce, suppressing his opponent in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Kill, kill all these demonic beings! These demonic beings dared to invade our Spring Autumn Sect¡ªit''s time they faced their end!" Wei Buyu and the others alsoughed out loud, their voices shaking heaven and earth, inspiring everyone.

    It was as if the elders had returned to their prime. Their qi and blood surged fiercely, theirbat strength instantly reaching new heights.

    With this, the blood demon army, which had previously dominated and battered the Spring Autumn Sect, now suffered a devastating setback. Their momentum was halted in its tracks.

    A blood demon expert, locked inbat with thew enforcement grand elder, swiftly ordered two others, ¡°Go, support them. We must kill Chen Fan and keep their momentum in check!¡±

    These blood demon experts had also realized that Chen Fan was the sole source of the Spring Autumn Sect''s newfound strength. Eliminating him would crush their morale.

    ¡°Elder, you...¡± A two-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert¡¯s expression changed.

    Thew enforcement grand elder¡¯s strength was simply terrifying, reaching the five or six-revolution Golden Core realm at the very least. If two of them left, the four-revolution blood demon expert would be no match for thew enforcement grand elder alone.

    ¡°Cut the nonsense. I can hold him back for some time. It would not be a problem as long as you kill Chen Fan!¡± said the four-revolution blood demon expert.

    The two blood demon experts exchanged nces before breaking away from the battlefield to go help Young Master Xue Jia and the others.

    Thew enforcement grand elder erupted in fury, determined not to let them escape. However, this four-revolution blood demon expert was no slouch, either. Igniting his golden core, he surged with strength, matching the elder blow for blow.

    ¡°Quickly go!¡± roared the four-revolution blood demon expert furiously as he attacked thew enforcement grand elder in a frenzy, leaving thetter powerless to stop them.

    The two immediately broke away from the battlefield, flying toward Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s side with unparalleled momentum.

    One was at the peak of the one-revolution realm, while the other was a formidable two-revolution expert, stronger even than Young Master Xue Jia himself.

    The four-revolution blood demon expert shot a nce to that side and thought, <i>With five top experts besieging Chen Fan, this lineup is probably enough to deal with him.</i>

 Chapter 515 - Killing Duan Jingtian

    <h4>Chapter 515 - Killing Duan Jingtian</h4>

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The two formidable blood demon experts in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm arrived imposingly.

    The five top experts nned to join forces and kill Chen Fan, crushing the Spring Autumn Sect''s morale.

    The sect higher-ups had long since realized the blood demons¡¯ n, but they couldn¡¯t break free to assist Chen Fan.

    If Chen Fan could withstand their siege for a while, thew enforcement elder could overwhelm his opponent, kill him, ande to assist Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    ¡°Meet your death!¡±

    The two blood demon experts rushed toward Chen Fan. Their murderous auras swept out as they unleashed terrifying killing techniques at him.

    Despite the added pressure, Chen Fan remainedposed and fearless. Terrifying energy continued to radiate from him as a massive golden palm materialized, engulfing the sky and striking out with explosive force, shattering the sun.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Both parties¡¯ attacks immediately collided and blew up, forming a ten-thousand-foot-tall mushroom cloud. Brilliant shes of bloody and golden light illuminated the battlefield, and the space at the center of the collision crumbled apart.

    The terrifying shockwaves generated forced both parties to pull back.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    The original trio, who had been sent flying, also rushed out of the rubble and surrounded Chen Fan, their gazes filled with killing intent.

    None of them had anticipated that it would take five of them to kill Chen Fan. The situation seemed unbelievable and unprecedented.

    ¡°Chen Fan, don¡¯t think you can turn the situation around just because you advanced to the ninth level. With the five of us united against you, your death is inevitable. There''s no escape for you, not in heaven or earth. No one can save you now,¡± Duan Jingtian said, emanating cold killing intent.

    His feelings toward Chen Fan were not just hatred but also intense jealousy.

    He was Duan Jingtian, a god among them mortals.

    From the time he rose to power, the entire Spring Autumn Sect had always been under his control. No one dared to steal his limelight. He used to be the undisputed number one disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, poised to be the next sect leader.

    However, Chen Fan''s arrival had shattered his dominance. After the Heaven''s Alliance executives fell to Chen Fan and he barely escaped death in their duel, only saved by Feng Baiyu''s intervention, his reputation suffered a serious blow.

    The humiliating incident of begging for mercy spread throughout the Great Chu Empire, tarnishing his once lofty image. It was the most shameful chapter of his life, one he was determined to erase with Chen Fan''s blood.

    However, Chen Fan grew stronger like he was riding a dragon to each new level. It simply left others, including him, in despair.

    Now, he even needed five people to join forces to kill Chen Fan.

    Duan Jingtian was jealous of Chen Fan''s superior strength, jealous of his monstrous growth. For him, Chen Fan''s death had be an obsession.

    ¡°That will depend on whether you people have the ability!¡± Chen Fan said coldly, looking at Duan Jingtian as if he were looking at a dead man. ¡°Duan Jingtian, you¡¯ll be the first to die!¡±

    Among these five people, anyone else might have a chance to flee, but Chen Fan would not let Duan Jingtian escape. He was determined to kill him today, no matter the cost.

    ¡°Little bastard, meet your death!¡± The two-revolution blood demon expert did not waste any time and made a move against Chen Fan.

    His aura was earth-shattering, enough to intimidate even a ninth-level Core Formation realm expert to their core.

    With a furious shout, deep and rich true primeval erupted from him. It coalesced into an iparably huge, blood-colored divine light, which flew toward Chen Fan.

    Young Master Xue Jia and the others also struck, determined to kill Chen Fan quickly and get rid of any future threats.

    Theirbined auras erupted in a frenzy, sweeping across the sky and filling the space with torrents of bloody light, staining it crimson.

    ¡°Bloody Hand Overturns the Sky!¡±

    ¡°Blood God Suppresses the Universe!¡±

    ¡°Blood Swordbreaker Shatters Heaven!¡±

    ¡°Purgatory Opens the Sky!¡±

    Five great killing techniques bombarded Chen Fan in an instant.

    The noise was despairing, making one think that resisting was pointless. It felt like even gods and devils would be sted to pieces under this bombardment.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people felt their minds tighten when they saw this scene.

    However, facing the five great killing techniquesing from seemingly all directions, Chen Fan did not feel the slightest bit of fear. Instead, he let out a furious roar. An earth-shaking aura erupted from within him, shaking the universe.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    A heavenly god descended!

    ¡°Today, I¡¯ll show you true power. You thought having more people on your side would make you a match for me? How na?ve. You five are nothing but trash!¡± Chen Fan spat out those arrogant and domineering words.

    Together with his earth-shaking aura, it was almost as if he was a heavenly god, the backbone, that held up heaven and earth.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± An enormous amount of true primeval spewed out from him like several torrents, washing over the starry sky. It collided with the five murderous forces from Young Master Xue Jia and the others.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    It produced a huge explosion.

    The deafening explosion noises shook the entire space. It shook violently, along with the earth and the mountains. Everyone was affected and struggled to steady themselves.

    This terrifyingmotion startled even the four Divine Nascent realm powerhouses engaged in a frenzied battle above the nine heavens. Every one of them gazed downward, their eyes flickering.

    A wind-breaking noise suddenly rang out.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A figure rushed out from the ravaging, destructive storm. The terrifying storm failed utterly to sway him in the slightest.

    This figure was none other than Chen Fan.

    Despite five experts attacking him together, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t injured at all. Even his clothing was perfectly fine.

    He rushed out ferociously from the storm, carrying a shocking aura.

    An overwhelming force instantly pressed toward Duan Jingtian, whose cultivation was the lowest. His expression darkened drastically.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    An extremely terrifying sound of bone breaking rang out. Duan Jingtian couldn¡¯t even react and only felt his vision blur.

    Then, he felt as if all of his bones had broken and shattered. His organs shifted positions and ruptured.

    A terrifying force rushed into him from his chest, wreaking havoc wantonly, shattering all his bones in an instant.

    Chen Fan had made his way to Duan Jingtian at a speed indiscernible to the naked eye and used his iron spear as a rod to strike his chest.

    The terrifying force would shatter even a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain, let alone a bag of flesh and bones.

    ¡°First one!¡±

    That was thest sound Duan Jingtian ever heard. His vision darkened, and his consciousness began to fade. He plummeted from the sky limply, smashing onto the ground and turning into a puddle of flesh.

 Chapter 516 - Determined to Kill Chen Fan

    <h4>Chapter 516 - Determined to Kill Chen Fan</h4>

    ¡°First one!¡± said Chen Fan as Duan Jingtian plummeted from the sky. With a loud bang, he fell to the ground and turned into a puddle of flesh.

    A brief silence gripped the battlefield, freezing everyone in ce. The sound of Duan Jingtian''s fall was like a sledgehammer to the hearts of all present.

    The spectators weren''t shocked that Chen Fan could kill Duan Jingtian; their earlier battle had proven his capability.

    What shocked the crowd was that Chen Fan had emerged unscathed from thebined attacks of the five experts and even killed Duan Jingtian in a sh.

    A ninth-level Core Formation realm expert couldn¡¯t even react in time before he was killed. That was too terrifying.

    That was the power Chen Fan wielded after reaching the ninth-level Core Formation realm.

    Too scary!

    And too horrifying!

    Many people¡¯s hearts squeezed violently.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, nice kill!¡± Suddenly, a burst of boomingughter broke the silence,ing from thew enforcement grand elder who was the quickest to recover. Hisughter shook heaven and earth.

    Duan Jingtian, a spy nted by the Blood Demon Cave within the Spring Autumn Sect, had struck unexpectedly, killing one of the sect''s ninth-level Core Formation grand elders and throwing them into danger.

    It wouldn¡¯t be an overstatement that everyone in the sect hated him.

    With Duan Jingtian''s death, it felt like a thorn had been removed from the side of everyone in the sect. They felt very free, and naturally, everyone was very happy about it.

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples were impassioned and cheered repeatedly.

    ¡°Eternal victory to the Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    ¡°Spring Autumn Sect is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Long live First Senior Brother Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    They had lost many people because of Duan Jingtian, including their brothers, sisters, and their best friends.

    Chen Fan''s retaliation felt like justice served, avenging their losses. His prestige soared to an unprecedented peak.

    However, his advancement to the ninth level and subsequent defeat of the trio had dealt a severe blow to the morale of the Blood Demon Army, while revitalizing the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Five top experts had joined forces to bring him down, but they failed to injure him and also lost an ally. The morale of the blood demons¡¯ army had reached a new depth.

    Now, Chen Fan only had to deal with four of the five experts. Their prospects against Chen Fan seemed increasingly bleak.

    Duan Jingtian¡¯s betrayal had made the Spring Autumn Sect panic and fall into a desperate situation, but Chen Fan used sheer brute force to turn the situation around. His actions pushed the Blood Demon Army onto the defensive, cementing his status as a hero within the sect.

    ¡°Good, very good, this is what our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s holy disciple should be like!¡± A voice came from above the nine heavens, shaking the battlefield.

    Everyone could tell that this was the sect leader¡¯s voice.

    Although the sect leader and the other powerhouses were battling above the nine heavens, nothing could escape their senses.

    Feng Baiyu had seethed with fury at Duan Jingtian''s betrayal, but witnessing Chen Fan killing him brought immense satisfaction. It seemed the Spring Autumn Sect''s dire predicament was finally resolving.

    On the contrary, the eighteenth blood demonmander''s initial satisfaction turned to dismay at Duan Jingtian''s death, his expression turned ashen.

    They had made full preparations for attacking the Spring Autumn Sect.

    After all, if a spy like Duan Jingtian messed things up at a key moment, it would bring about great effects. His outburst was also as they had expected, causing the Spring Autumn Sect to fall into a very dangerous situation.

    s, they hadn¡¯t anticipated the Spring Autumn Sect to have a monstrous character like Chen Fan. His strength turned the situation around instantly at thest moment as he killed their spy.

    ¡°Ah, damn it! Listen, everyone below. Even if this operation fails, you have to kill Chen Fan!¡±

    The eighteenth blood demonmander¡¯s furious roar resounded, revealing his intense frustration.

    When they had attacked, they were eighty to ny percent sure of victory. However, they were about to fail due to a single variable, Chen Fan; they had to eliminate that variable.

    ¡°As youmand, Sir!¡± The four-revolution blood demon expert engaged with thew enforcement grand elder swiftly ryed the order and directed additional forces to ensure Chen Fan''s death.

    Two more blood demon experts broke out of their respective battles and made their way toward Chen Fan¡¯s side.

    Now, six experts were besieging Chen Fan. There was one two-revolution expert, two peak one-revolution experts including Young Master Xue Jia, a one-revolution expert, and two peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demons.

    This lineup was much stronger than the five-man formation earlier. It underscored how eager they were to kill Chen Fan.

    Such a lineup could kill even a three-revolution expert, but it was being used to deal with one ninth-level Core Formation realm expert. The entire Great Chu Empire would be shaken if word of this spread.

    Once again, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side broke out into cold sweat for Chen Fan.

    Facing these six people, Chen Fan also felt pressure rising in his heart. Still, there was no fear. Instead, his aura grew increasingly berserk, and his gaze became iparably fierce, full of fighting spirit.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Young Master Xue Jia roared furiously. His killing intent shook heaven and earth. A bloody light rose to the skies and an overwhelming sea of blood spread. He unleashed a terrifying attack, hoping to kill Chen Fan at once.

    The other five people also struck at the same time.

    Every one of those attacks was extremely terrifying, with the power to destroy the stars and the universe. The spectators couldn¡¯t help but feel their scalps tingle and their legs turning to jelly.

    Facing the attacks, Chen Fan¡¯s aura surged instead of getting suppressed. His strength also surged, emitting booming noises as the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda flew out, guarding the surroundings.

    Regardless of his strength, Chen Fan did not dare to receive their attacks head-on.

    After all, this six-man lineup was much stronger than the five-man lineup. Their attacking power had simply skyrocketed, being nearly twice what it was. Even though his Myriad Elephants Divine Art had advanced to the fourteenthyer, he would be injured. It was not worth it.

    In such a situation, the smallest of injuries could affect hisbat strength. That would lead to very dire and terrifying consequences. Naturally, Chen Fan would not stupidly allow these attacks to reach him.

    The Nine Halls Golden Pagoda erupted at once. Bursts of golden lights shone as nine golden pagodas circled Chen Fan, guarding him tightly.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The six people¡¯s attacksnded on the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda, immediately offsetting more than half of the power. The remaining force came through but was unable to injure Chen Fan in the slightest.

    Chen Fan simultaneouslyunched his counterattack.

    He stabbed out with his spear, producing a spear light that was shockingly over ten thousand feet long. It pierced the sky and shattered the stars as it sted toward a peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demon.

 Chapter 517 - Unparalleled! Unparalleled!

    <h4>Chapter 517 - Unparalleled! Unparalleled!</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan had thrust his spear with immense force, and the terrifying spear light was powerful enough to shatter stars and the universe. Its target was a peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demon.

    The target was locked on by an iparably terrifying force. His surrounding space was restricted, and he could only watch as the spear light rushed toward him to rob his life.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± He let out a furious roar. His strength surged and erupted frenziedly as he tried to escape the confinement and dodge the attack. Otherwise, he was sure to die.

    However, his strength was simply insignificant before Chen Fan. He had no choice but to ignite his golden core. His aura burned and boiled at once, breaking free from the confinement of the force field.

    But the spear light had already descended. With no way to dodge, he braced himself to face it head-on, knowing his survival depended on withstanding the attack.

    Naturally, Young Master Xue Jia and the others wouldn¡¯t just watch it happen. They quickly made a move one after another.

    However, Chen Fan was prepared. Three heads and six arms appeared around him as he condensed the Heaven Piercing Spear. He hurled it forward with terrifying rotational power, shattering the five people¡¯s attacks.

    ¡°No!¡±

    The blood demon¡¯s strength had skyrocketed after igniting his golden core, making him as strong as a one-revolution Golden Core expert. However, Chen Fan had previously sent the trio flying and crashing into a mountain with a single attack. Among them, Young Master Xue Jia was at the peak one-revolution Golden Core realm, and not even he could withstand Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    The terrifying spear light easily tore through all of this blood demon¡¯s defenses, as if it was piercing a block of butter or tofu, and skewered him. With a loud bang, the blood demon burst into pieces.

    This entire event urred in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Second one!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent voice rang out, causing Young Master Xue Jia and the others to shudder.

    He¡¯s too terrifying!

    Despite facing attacks from the six of them, Chen Fan could easily kill a peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demon.

    To put it into perspective, this blood demon was even a little stronger than Duan Jingtian.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you will pay with your life today. I''ll see you beg for mercy!¡± Young Master Xue Jia gritted his teeth tightly. His boorish cheeks twisted severely, looking like an evil spirit.

    Chen Fan nced over and said coldly, ¡°Fine, the third to die will be you! Kill!¡±

    He rushed toward Young Master Xue Jia under the Nine Halls Golden Pagoda¡¯s protection. He would kill Young Master Xue Jia next.

    A trace of panic shed across Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s eyes. He knew he stood no chance alone against Chen Fan. Quickly, he flew toward the two-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert. Together, they might withstand Chen Fan''s onught for a while.

    ¡°Die!¡± The other blood experts immediatelyunched attacks at Chen Fan one after another when they saw him charging at Young Master Xue Jia.

    However, Chen Fan suddenly turned around and pounced toward the other peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demon fast as lightning. The sudden turn of events caught everyone off guard.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The sound of the iron spear piercing him rang out. This peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demon looked down at the iron spear sticking out of him, looked up at Chen Fan, and said with difficulty, ¡°You... lied? W-wasn¡¯t... he next?¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°And you believed me? Idiot!¡±

    He twisted his hand, and the peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood expert blew up, leaving no remains behind.

    In mere moments, Chen Fan had killed two peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood demons. It was simply too easy.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Young Master Xue Jia and the others were infuriated. Their ranks were thinning, and their rage was palpable.

    They had genuinely believed Chen Fan would target Young Master Xue Jia, not realizing it was a ruse to eliminate the weakest among them.

    ¡°What are you screaming for? Do you think yelling will save you? You, yes you. You''re next!¡± Chen Fan raised his arm, pointing at a one-revolution Golden Core blood demon with his iron spear.

    ¡°Stay close! Let¡¯s not separate. We''ll strike together and not let him pick us off one by one!¡± roared the two-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert. His aura erupted, and he charged toward Chen Fan.

    The desire to tear Chen Fan apart and end him was clear in their hearts.

    This assault by the blood demon army on the Spring Autumn Sect had been fraught with challenges, their ranks suffering heavily due to Chen Fan. The likelihood of their operation failing was high.

    ¡°How funny. You think sticking together will save you? Fine, do that then. I¡¯ll kill all of you together!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly and thrust the iron spear forward, destroying the two-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert¡¯s attack. Then, he rushed forward with imposing steps like a god, his aura shaking heaven and earth.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Young Master Xue Jia and the others roared furiously.

    Although they had lost two peak ninth-level Core Formation realm blood experts, the remaining four were still formidable, each an invincible expert in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    The four erupted simultaneously with terrifying qi. Theirbined attacks coalesced into a monstrous, blood-colored dragon, charging Chen Fan to devour him.

    A blood-colored divine light spilled into the world, traversing across the sky. It was as if the entire world would be destroyed under this terrifying attack.

    Chen Fan snorted coldly. The Purgatory Divine Halberd erupted with the aura of purgatory.

    This was a Grade-5 treasure, which was much more powerful than his iron spear. As he activated it, a brilliant halberd light illuminated the world, an eerie wind sweeping out.

    Chen Fan shed out with a halberd light. He rose to the skies, then stabbed out violently. It streaked across the long skies, rushing toward Young Master Xue Jia and the others¡¯ attack.

    He had never practiced any halberd-rted martial skills, but even this casual thrust had enough power to destroy mountains and rivers. Its destructive power even surpassed earth tier martial skills.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The attacks from both sides collided violently. A horrifying pressure crushed the void, and even the primal chaos was about to be broken through.

    The enormous force produced waves of energy storms. Ring after ring, they swept out like the tide.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan cut through the waves like a streak of light, breaking through the impact of the energy storm instantly. He appeared in front of a one-revolution Golden Core blood demon and shed down mercilessly with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable scream rang out. This one-revolution blood demon expert was chopped to pieces.

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice, like that of a death reaper, resonated through the space once more.

    ¡°Fourth one!¡±

 Chapter 518 - Everyoneâ€™s Fighting with All Their Might

    <h4>Chapter 518 - Everyone¡¯s Fighting with All Their Might</h4>

    ¡°Fourth one!¡±

    When Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice echoed, it was clear another blood demon expert had fallen.

    Meanwhile, Young Master Xue Jia and his remainingpanions felt their souls leaving their mortal shells. They retreated hastily to avoid Chen Fan''s immediate wrath.

    Chen Fan did not chase after them and only looked at them calmly. He had killed half of their forces in the blink of an eye, leaving only Young Master Xue Jia and two others. They had truly suffered heavy losses.

    The blood demon army had hoped that the six top experts working together could bring down Chen Fan. However, the oue proved that their hopes were indeed just hopes. Chen Fan was just too strong.

    When that four-revolution Golden Core blood demon fighting thew enforcement grand elder saw that, he couldn¡¯t help but hurl abuse at Young Master Xue Jia and the others, calling them trash. After all, they had all failed to take down one variable.

    However, he still wanted to send more people to provide support. Even if they failed to wipe out the Spring Autumn Sect, they must kill Chen Fan; he was too monstrous.

    If they allowed Chen Fan to grow, he would be a huge threat to the holy cult.

    However, the blood demon army could not spare any more manpower to provide support. After all, the Spring Autumn Sect wasn¡¯t weak, either.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you dare to be distracted when facing me? You¡¯re really asking to die!¡±

    Thew enforcement grand elder¡¯s aura erupted, and he sent out a palm strike.

    The palm seal emanated a hellish pressure. It snapped his opponent¡¯s tendons and broke his bones. The blood demon¡¯s aura, which had skyrocketed after he had ignited his golden core, also began to wane.

    Thew enforcement grand elder was stronger than him, and the blood demon could only restrain him with the help of two other blood demon experts. However, those two had left to deal with Chen Fan; therefore, he had no choice but to ignite his golden core to fight the grand elder.

    But the power of his golden core was finite, a fleeting burst that couldn''t be sustained indefinitely.

    As its effects waned and distraction set in, the blood demon''s strength rapidly declined, and he soon found himself outmatched by thew enforcement grand elder.

    Witnessing this, the Spring Autumn Sect members roared furiously, their attacks became even fiercer.

    The tide turned against the blood demon army, pushing them into a desperate situation.

    Chen Fan had taken care of his opponents, and thew enforcement grand elder¡¯s opponent was battered to the point of spitting blood, unable to endure much longer.

    It became clear that the oue would hinge on who could take down their opponent first¡ªChen Fan or thew enforcement grand elder.

    Although the four-revolution Golden Core blood demon leader was covered in blood, his gaze became more vicious. He roared furiously, ¡°You useless fools, ignite your golden cores now. Otherwise, we¡¯ll all meet our ends here today!¡±

    His aura surged and boiled once more; he hadpletely torched his golden core. That would waste his entire cultivation, but that was eptable as long as they seeded in destroying their enemy.

    The other blood demon experts quickly ignited their golden cores one after another, causing Wei Buyu and the others to be flustered.

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s group also hardened themselves. They knew if they didn¡¯t risk it all, then they really wouldn¡¯t have another chance.

    The blood demon army¡¯s side could no longer free anyone else up to support their siege on Chen Fan. They could only depend on themselves.

    If they did not ignite their golden cores, they would get killed by Chen Fan.

    If they died, then all this power and cultivation would be for naught. Igniting their golden core was better than that. That way, there was still a chance for them to turn the situation around.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    In the skies above the battlefield, streaks of terrifying bloody light rose to the clouds almost simultaneously. These blood demon experts ignited their golden cores, risking everything for this fight.

    ¡°Hahahaha, if even you demonic beings dare to ignite your golden cores, what do we have to fear? Ignite!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, it¡¯s just a golden core. After killing you, I can get it all back in a few years!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side was also provoked. Some grand elders also chose to ignite their golden cores.

    The situation was currently under their control. If the blood demons could regain control after igniting their golden cores, it would be a great loss. Therefore, they also ignited their golden cores in response.

    Thus, the nerve-racking situation immediately calmed down.

    Having ignited his golden core, the two-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert¡¯s aura soared, reaching peak two-revolution realm, giving Chen Fan extremely great pressure.

    ¡°ept your death, Chen Fan!¡±

    A cold and piercing killing intent spread out in all directions.

    Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s aura had also climbed up to the two-revolution level. His ferocious roar shook the ground and the mountains. He unleashed terrifying strength,unching an attack at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Three immense auras, cold and imposing, nketed the world like a vast ocean, sweeping toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡± Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s furious roar shattered the vacuum as he charged at Chen Fan, his aura resembling a charging mountain, incredibly daunting.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Chen Fan shouted, releasing his strength. He channeled his cultivation technique to the limit.

    The fight had escted to the point of life or death. Although the party besieging him only had three people, the pressure he felt was greater than when they were six.

    That was because Young Master Xue Jia and the others had gone all in, igniting their golden cores without care for the consequences.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The two parties were like stars in the sky, colliding violently. In that one moment, arge area of the surrounding space copsed.

    An extremely dazzling light streaked across the sky like billions of light arrows were shot at the same time, cutting through the universe.

    Both sides were thrown back in a tumultuous exchange, their auras fluctuating wildly.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The shockwaves of the explosion swept out. The entire space crumbled, shocking the crowd. What kind of attack could cause such a sh?

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡±

    The shockwaves were still ravaging fiercely, but Chen Fan and Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s party had already steadied themselves. Chilling light shot out of their gazes, and their auras surged as they channeled their cultivation technique, colliding once more.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you must die today!¡± Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s angry roar came through the storm.

    Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent voice rang out next. ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, thinking of killing me with just you people? How delusional!¡±

    The four people¡¯s figures werepletely swallowed up by the storm. The crowd couldn¡¯t see the situation inside. They could only sense the terrifying forces spreading out from the storm, causing their scalps to tingle.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The rings of shockwaves spread out in all directions. Several mountain peaks blew up from the force, and the mountains themselves cracked open.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Soon, a figure flew out from that storm.

 Chapter 519 - Killed Them All

    <h4>Chapter 519 - Killed Them All</h4>

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, someone burst out from the storm. It was the blood demon with the lowest cultivation level among the trio, at the one-revolution Golden Core realm.

    After igniting his blood core, his strength had surged to the mid tote-stage level.

    He was the first to be thrown out of the storm by Chen Fan. His aura shook violently, showing signs of instability.

    Much of his blood robes were torn, his hair was disheveled, and he spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood, looking extremely terrified.

    While the people outside couldn¡¯t see orprehend the magnitude of the fight inside the storm, he had experienced it, being one of the participants.

    Although only three people were besieging Chen Fan, they had all ignited their golden cores. Theirbined strength could even take down an invincible three-revolution Golden Core realm expert.

    However, Chen Fan was truly like a heavenly god, undefeated in ten thousand battles. He exchanged blows with the three of them in a frenzy. With a single spear thrust, he sent a blood demon flying out. Had that demon not ignited his golden core, that attack would have ended him.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Before the blood demon could even channel his qi to rush right back in, a series of explosions rang out. He saw someone else flying out of the storm, looking to be in dire straits.

    It was Young Master Xue Jia!

    His once lofty temperament was gone, and he looked extremely awful. He vomited blood repeatedly, unable to suppress his injuries. His protective true primeval was trembling as parts of it exploded, ringing non-stop like someone had set off firecrackers.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Before the crowd could feel shock, another figure was pushed out of the storm, also looking pitiful. With each step, a thunderous drum-like boom reverberated through the air, creating rippling disturbances beneath his feet. One could only imagine what kind of terrifying strength every step of his contained.

    This blood demon, the strongest among the two-revolution Golden Core holders, was also thrust out by Chen Fan. While not as dire as Young Master Xue Jia and the first blood demon, his condition was far from good.

    Chen Fan walked out from the storm.

    He had sent his opponents flying out, but it hadn¡¯t been an easy fight, as all three had ignited their golden core.

    Chen Fan''s torn clothing and visible wounds testified to the intensity of the conflict.

    To sum it up, although Chen Fan was injured, he only suffered minor injuries. Compared to the trio, those couldn¡¯t be considered injuries at all.

    The crowd, especially the blood demon army, felt their souls quiver.

    Never in their wildest dreams had they expected Chen Fan to repel three experts who had ignited their golden cores, prompting questions about his true strength.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Even after all that, Chen Fan¡¯s aura hadn¡¯t waned; it actually seemed stronger. He walked out from the copsing storm and stabbed toward the weakest one-revolution Golden Core blood demon.

    The air currents in heaven and earth had bepletely chaotic. Chen Fan¡¯s iron spear was like a ck dragon, breaking through the restraints of space-time.

    ¡°How dare you! Stop!¡± Young Master Xue Jia and that two-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert roared furiously, their anger rising to their crowns. If Chen Fan killed another one of them, then only two people would remain to fight that monster.

    The three of them together were already at a disadvantage, so if they lost another man, they wouldn¡¯t be sent flying out next time, they would die.

    The two struck at almost the same time. Two immense blood-colored divine lights shot toward Chen Fan at lightning speed.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, no one can save someone I intend to kill!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly as his iron spear erupted with terrifying spear light.

    Veins bulged like steel on his arm as he gathered his formidable strength, hurling the spear with immense force.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh. Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh...</i>

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    The air exploded, producing a sharp, ear-piercing noise.

    The spear carried an iparably terrifying rotational force with it. The tip of the spear tore the space apart, its speed faster than lightning. This unstoppable force rushed toward its target.

    Simultaneously, the Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in Chen Fan''s hand, trailing a long streak of halberd light.

    With a swift motion, he shed violently, cleaving the blood-colored divine lights sent by Young Master Xue Jia and the other blood demon in half.

    The iron spear had already turned into a ck streak of light shooting towards the one-revolution Golden Core blood demon.

    ¡°No!¡±

    An iparably powerful force restrained the one-revolution Golden Core blood demon. His qi was suppressed, and so was the power from his burning golden core.

    The iron spear came raging like a ck flood dragon, baring its teeth and ws, wanting to rip him to shreds. He could only watch as the grim reaper descended, unable to do a thing.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The iron spear tore through everything in its path and pierced this blood demon. The force ripped him to shreds.

    However, the spear didn¡¯t stop there. Like a tiger in a herd of sheep, it flew into the blood demon army.

    Countless miserable screams rang out at once.

    It skewered many blood demons, causing huge casualties. None could withstand the spear''s terrifying power.

    Young Master Xue Jia nearly went insane when he saw the one-revolution blood demon die.

    However, Chen Fan did not care. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, he was like a grim reaper from the underworld, looking to reap the two final targets¡¯ lives.

    Every step he took shattered the void, and his aura rose with every step. Murderous qi covered heaven and earth as it swept toward Young Master Xue Jia and the other blood demon; his killing intent locked the two firmly in ce. Today, even if they could somehow run to the ends of the world, they wouldn¡¯t escape death.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn now, die!¡± Chen Fan''s voice echoed coldly. His aura was akin to that of a merciless god of death, suffocating his opponents with its oppressive might.

    Facing their imminent demise, the two blood demonsunched desperate attacks.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>.¡± Chen Fan let out a low shout and sent out a Great Brahma Sacred Palm, destroying their attacks.

    Now, only the two blood demons were left. The pressure on Chen Fan was very low.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Immediately after neutralizing their attacks, Chen Fan appeared in front of Young Master Xue Jia as if he had teleported.

    With almost no pause in his movements, Chen Fan shed down with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, unleashing a deadly aura.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Realizing the impending danger, Young Master Xue Jia roared in fury, his formidable defenses toote to activate.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd tore through all of Young Master Xue Jia¡¯s protective qi as though it were a block of tofu, splitting him in half.

    Just like that, Young Master Xue Jia died, whose very name once resonated throughout the Great Chu Empire.

    Seeing Young Master Xue Jia die, the two-revolution blood demon expert felt his soul leaving him. He wanted to flee right away, but Chen Fan would not give him the opportunity.

    ¡°You won¡¯t get away. Go to hell!¡±

    Wings of Rain Dragon appeared on his back, and he chased after him. He drew an abstruse arc with the Purgatory Divine Halberd and stabbed at the blood demon expert¡¯s back.

    ¡°No!¡±

    Following a furious roar that shook heaven and earth, the Purgatory Divine Halberd pierced the blood demon, instantly robbing him of all life.

    The party of six had all fallen!

 Chapter 520 - Sweeping the Lands

    <h4>Chapter 520 - Sweeping the Lands</h4>

    As thest member of the six-man party fell, a chilling silence nketed heaven and earth.

    Including Duan Jingtian, Chen Fan alone had killed seven experts.

    Every one of them was a top expert at the ninth-level Core Formation realm or above. ced across the entire Great Chu Empire, they could dominate any territory.

    After Duan Jingtian¡¯s betrayal, the Spring Autumn Sect fell into a weak position. He caused the entire Spring Autumn Sect to fall into a desperate situation. His one move had thrown the entire sect into a dire predicament.

    However, Chen Fan turned the situation around with his lone strength.

    After advancing to the ninth level, he had restrained the blood demon army¡¯s top experts one after another, greatly reducing the pressure on the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Chen Fan''s prowess not only decimated the enemy ranks but also dispelled the fear among his fellow sect members, boosting their morale to unprecedented levels. This newfound confidence unleashed theirtent potential, allowing them to ughter the blood demon army to the point where they were crying for their fathers and mothers.

    Now, as long as nothing unexpected happened to the two pirs of the Spring Autumn Sect battling above the nine heavens, this war wouldpletely end in their favor.

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples, drenched in blood, appeared flushed and cheered out loud. Their shouts rushed to the skies, dispersing the white clouds above.

    ¡°First Senior Brother Chen Fan is ever victorious!¡±

    ¡°Spring Autumn Sect is ever victorious!¡±

    ¡°Our human race is invincible!¡±

    ¡°First Senior Brother Chen Fan is invincible!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Their momentum surged to its peak, as they could all see that victory was within reach.

    In stark contrast, the blood demon army was gripped by panic after the fall of Young Master Xue Jia and his cronies. From the lowliest Yuanfu realm minions to the Core Formation realm leaders, everyone was panicking.

    With the demise of Young Master Xue Jia''s party, the deadlock was shattered for the second time, leaving the blood demon army in a desperate plight.

    Chen Fan could resist an army by himself. Now that he was freed up, who among the blood demon army¡¯s side could stop him?

    The four-revolution Golden Core blood demon leader dealing with thew enforcement grand elder was also taking a beating. He was bloodied and battered. Defeat was imminent, and his death was only a matter of time.

    Many in the blood demon army were contemting fleeing.

    Yet, they had to fight to the bitter end unless the blood demonmander above gave the order to retreat. Even in the face of death, fleeing was not an option, for doing so would also lead to death.

    As for Chen Fan, he was free now and the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side held an absolute advantage. So, it was time for a big counterattack.

    ¡°All disciples and elders of the Spring Autumn Sect, follow me, and kill our enemies!¡± Chen Fan shouted. His voice shook the universe, giving off a sense of unparalleled momentum.

    Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he emanated an earth-shaking aura. As the halberd light shone, horrifying scenes of the purgatory appeared.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    An aura of invincibility emanated from Chen Fan as he charged forward. He disappeared as he charged forward, causing the air to explode. He was like a god of war, ughtering his way into the blood demon army.

    As he swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, the terrifying halberd light ripped through heaven and earth. No blood demon could withstand a single attack from him.

    Without strength in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm, no one could resist him. A casual strike from him could kill those at the eighth or ninth level.

    His halberd light swept through, makingrge areas of space copse and vaporizing the air itself. Blood demons fell one after another, utterly powerless before him.

    A gigantic golden palm fell from the sky. The air exploded from the crushing pressure. Arge swathe of blood mist spread out. Tens, if not hundreds, of blood demons exploded.

    Chen Fan had turned into an invincible killing god. As he went around, he took the lives of the blood demons one after another. No one could stop him.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Miserable screams filled the air as severed limbs flew, fresh blood flew everywhere, and chunks of flesh fell wherever Chen Fan went.

    ¡°The devil! He¡¯s the devil, quickly run!¡±

    ¡°Run, quickly run! I don¡¯t want to die!¡±

    The blood demon army was scared out of their minds. Many blood demon minions turned to flee.

    ¡°No one is allowed to flee. Hold it right there, all of you. Whoever dares to flee shall die!¡± roared the four-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert furiously, fuming from his orifices.

    However, no one listened to his order. They might die if they flee, but they would die if they didn¡¯t run away.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    However, as soon as his voice fell, he was struck by thew enforcement grand elder. He suffered a grievous injury. Drenched in blood, he looked incredibly miserable.

    His golden core shrank constantly, and his aura kept weakening.

    ¡°Kill! Kill everyst one of these demonic beings and avenge our brothers and sisters!¡±

    ¡°Kill! Kill all these blood demons!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s momentum was unparalleled. Everyone roared furiously and attacked ferociously, killing the blood demons who had lost all will to fight. It was simply a one-sided massacre.

    ¡°Damn it, Chen Fan, die for me!¡± A furious roar suddenly rang out from the side. It came from a one-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert. He ignited his entire golden core, heavily injuring the Spring Autumn Sect grand elder fighting him. He broke away and charged toward Chen Fan.

    Iparably terrifying true primeval erupted from the blood demon expert, enveloping him. Igniting his golden core had pushed his cultivation level to the three-revolution Golden Core realm temporarily.

    A terrifying aura stormed out. A blood-colored ancient spear appeared in the demon¡¯s hand, emanating terrifying fluctuations. He stabbed out violently, aiming at Chen Fan¡¯s head.

    Chen Fan raised his hand and shed with his halberd, producing a halberd light that seemed to destroy the world and stars.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The collision shattered heaven and earth, with boundless energy sweeping out.

    The blood demon expert fully unleashed his power, knocking Chen Fan back.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The blood demon expert continued his fearless assault, stabbing with his blood-colored ancient spear. The immense bloody light crushed the space like blood-colored stars were smashing at him. It was extremely terrifying.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. Earlier, he had only managed to strike back in a hurry, causing him to be knocked backward.

    Now, he immediately channeled his qi and erupted with tremendous strength.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two collided fiercely once more.

    This time, it was the blood demon expert who was repelled.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    Chen Fan was like a heavenly god striding across the sky, giving chase to that blood demon while he was still being pushed back. His halberd descended from the sky, chopping down.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    A head flew high up in the air, a fountain of blood spewing.

 Chapter 521 - Defeating the Blood Demons

    <h4>Chapter 521 - Defeating the Blood Demons</h4>

    The blood demon army¡¯s morale received another huge blow when Chen Fan cut down another blood demon expert.

    More and more blood demons lost the will to fight. Looks of fear appeared on their faces, and they began fleeing in defeat.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A mournful cry pierced the air.

    It belonged to that four-revolution Golden Core blood demon leader. Under thew enforcement grand elder¡¯s bombardment, he was finally smashed into meat paste, his mind and soul annihted.

    The blood demon army¡¯s morale reached new depths again.

    This four-revolution Golden Core leader was the strongest demon in their army. His death was without a doubt the final straw that broke the camel¡¯s back for the blood demons.

    ¡°Run, quickly run!¡±

    ¡°Leader Xue Luo has fallen. We¡¯re no match for them. Quickly run, or we¡¯ll die!¡±

    ¡°As long as the green mountain remains, we¡¯ll have more firewood to burn. We must survive for a chance to reim our future."

    ¡°......¡±

    Apart from the Yuanfu realm minions, even the Core Formation realm blood demon experts lost their fighting spirit and felt utterly defeated.

    Suddenly, the blood demonmander¡¯s furious roar rang out from above the nine heavens. The terrifying aura descending struck fear into all who heard it.

    ¡°Ah, damn it, Feng Baiyu, our holy cult will exterminate your Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, exterminate my sect? You rats? Forget about your minions below, even you two won¡¯t survive today!¡± Feng Baiyu¡¯s icy voice resounded, freezing the nine heavens.

    Feng Baiyu¡¯s words pushed the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s spirits even higher. Everyone realized that Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu were likely in an advantageous position in the battle above the nine heavens.

    The crowd cheered to the skies.

    ¡°Spring Autumn is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Spring Autumn will win!¡±

    The eighteenthmander of the blood demons finally gave the order to retreat.

    ¡°Blood demon army, retreat!¡±

    Their assault on the Spring Autumn Sect this time had utterly failed. The blood demon army had suffered catastrophic losses.

    Many of their Core Formation realm experts fell, some were even at the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm. The two blood demonmanders felt as if their hearts were bleeding.

    The blood demon army immediately withdrew when they heard the order.

    They had long since lost their will to fight due to Chen Fan¡¯s massacre. Only the pressure of the blood demonmander¡¯s prestige had kept them from running away. Now that they could run away, they all wished they had another pair of legs to run faster.

    In response to the demonmander¡¯s order to retreat, Feng Baiyu immediately gave the order to pursue.

    ¡°Heed my order, people of the Spring Autumn Sect. Chase down the blood demons and spare no one. Kill them all!¡±

    That, however, needed no explicit deration. The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people wouldn¡¯t let these blood demons off so easily.

    The sect members roared with rage and excitement, hunting down the blood demon army in a frenzy.

    ¡°Kill, kill all the blood demons. Leave none of them alive!¡±

    ¡°We must never let them escape. We have to kill them all!¡±

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re running to? ept your death!¡±

    The blood demon army¡¯s momentum hadpletely dissipated. They all had one thought in their mind now: run. Some stronger demons even sacrificed the weaker ones to safeguard themselves.

    Meanwhile, like a legend, Chen Fan swung his arm, sending streaks of halberd light tearing through space. The blood demons would be heavily injured by the halberd light with the slightest touch, and getting hit cleanly meant death.

    While Chen Fan and the others were hunting down the blood demons, the eighteenth and neenth blood demonmanders were also preparing to fall back.

    They had also lost the will to fight.

    Facing Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu¡¯s fierce attacks, they could do nothing but endure as more wounds appeared on them. If they didn¡¯t leave soon, the orthodox alliance¡¯s experts would arrive.

    ¡°Thinking of leaving? Not happening!¡± Feng Baiyu smiled coldly. He unleashed a shocking saber light, which tore through the sky, aiming to kill the eighteenth blood demonmander.

    The eighteenth blood demonmander retaliated with a backhanded punch and a sea of blood covered the skies. He said coldly, ¡°Feng Baiyu, we only failed to wipe out your sect because of that brat Chen Fan, but you can¡¯t stop me from leaving!¡±

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Terrifying fluctuations rippled from above the nine heavens.

    One party wanted to leave, but the other wouldn¡¯t let them.

    Previously, Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu were frantically attacking the eighteenth and neenthmanders because the Spring Autumn Sect was at a disadvantage below.

    But now, the situation hadpletely flipped around.

    The eighteenth and neenthmanders attacked Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu crazily, trying to break free from their entanglement and escape.

    A loudughter suddenly shook the sky. Two figures crossed the sky quickly, arriving in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you rats are thinking of leaving? I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s a little toote for that!¡±

    The eighteenth and neenth blood demonmanders¡¯ expressions immediately sank because these two were Divine Nascent realm experts from the orthodox alliance.

    The eighteenth and neenth blood demonmanders immediately went all out, disregarding the consequences. They attacked as if their lives depended on it, attacking Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu to escape.

    However, Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu held the two back tenaciously.

    ¡°Die!¡± A terrifying palm seal descended from the sky, aiming for the eighteenthmander. One of the Divine Nascent realm powerhouses struck from tens of kilometers away with almighty methods.

    The expert was an old man with terrifying strength from the Donghua Sect. It was a top-tier sect ranked within the top ten of the Great Chu Empire. Its overall strength was even above that of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Their sect¡¯s pride, Li Fan, was killed by Young Master Xue Jia.

    Upon learning that the Spring Autumn Sect was in trouble, this Donghua Sect Divine Nascent realm powerhouse had rushed over, wanting to kill a Divine Nascent realm blood demon expert in revenge.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With the two Divine Nascent realm powerhouses acting as reinforcement, the eighteenth and neenth blood demonmanders were flustered.

    They struck frenziedly, but they were nothing more than trapped beasts, having to fight one against two.

    A cat-and-mouse chase unfolded above the nine heavens and on the battlefield below.

    ¡°Kill! Kill all these demonic bastards. Make them pay!¡± roared the Spring Autumn Sect members furiously.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The war fortresses crushed the space. The air exploded by the inch, producing deafening noises. Everywhere they passed, arge swathe of the fleeing blood demons was crushed to death, reduced to bits.

    Countless blood demons knelt on the ground at once, begging for mercy.

    ¡°Ah, no, I surrender. I¡¯m willing to change my ways and join the righteous path.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t kill me, I don¡¯t want to die. Spare our lives, please, we¡¯re also only following orders.¡±

    The pleas were useless, however. They were crushed by the war fortresses and died.

    There was no turning back after these people had strayed into the evil path.

 Chapter 522 - The Fall of a Powerhouse

    <h4>Chapter 522 - The Fall of a Powerhouse</h4>

    With the eighteenth blood demonmander¡¯s order, the blood demon army went into full retreat. Their operation to attack the Spring Autumn Sect had failed.

    Compared to their arrival, the blood demon army was now in total disarray, wailing as they fled frantically.

    However, the Spring Autumn Sect wasn¡¯t about to let them flee so easily.

    ¡°Kill them all! Head straight for their nests!¡± shouted thew enforcement grand elder furiously. His figure flickered rapidly in the air as he chased the fleeing blood demon experts.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Yue Zhongtian, Lei Wushuang, and the others directed the war fortresses, charging ahead and crushing everything in their paths, turningrge swathes of blood demons into mincemeat.

    The blood demon army wished they had extra legs to run faster and escape Chen Fan and the others¡¯ pursuit.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s losses in this battle were huge. Many disciples and elders fell.

    Everyone in the crowd held in their sorrow, channeling all their anger into killing everyst one of the blood demons to honor their fallenrades.

    Like a heavenly god roaming the mortal world, Chen Fan killed several Core Formation realm blood demon experts.

    He ignored the minions, leaving them to the sect¡¯s elite and core disciples.

    One of these Core Formation realm experts was equivalent to hundreds, if not over a thousand, Yuanfu realm experts.

    Now, every Spring Autumn Sect disciple was venting the burning anger in their hearts, chasing down and killing the fleeing blood demons.

    ¡°Ah, damn it, I¡¯ll fight you to the death!¡±

    ¡°Bring them down with us, bring them down with us!¡±

    ¡°Stop chasing me, or I¡¯ll self-detonate and bring you all down with me!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many blood demons werepletely terrified due to their pursuers. It was like their souls had escaped their bodies. They tried threatening to detonate themselves and bringing everyone down with them to deter them.

    However, the Spring Autumn Sect disciples ignored their threats and attacked even more fiercely.

    Some blood demons were pushed into a corner, so they decided to self-detonate.

    ¡°Ah, you people forced my hand, let¡¯s perish together!¡±

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Many blood demons self-detonated, causing the pursuing Spring Autumn Sect to suffer more fatalities.

    Still, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people didn¡¯t stop their chase.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan flew past in the air. Many disciples couldn¡¯t escape the st radius of the blood demons¡¯ self-detonation; their deaths enraged him. A gigantic golden palm descended from the sky as if its purpose was to destroy the world, smashing down violently.

    Thends and the mountains immediately shook, and the earth cracked open. Countless blood demons were crushed into meat paste.

    He hadn¡¯t nned on attacking the minions, but when their self-detonation began dealing heavy casualties to the sect, he could not just sit back and watch.

    Directly stepping in to crush those minions would prevent the Spring Autumn Sect disciples from meaningless deaths.

    ......

    The eighteenthmander¡¯s angry voice rang out from above the nine heavens.

    ¡°Ah, damn it, Feng Baiyu, are you trying to force me into self-detonating and bringing everyone down together!¡±

    They had failed to wipe out the Spring Autumn Sect; now, they couldn¡¯t even retreat easily, as the experts from the orthodox alliance hade.

    Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu had managed to suppress two Divine Nascent realm blood demons, so with the orthodox alliance¡¯s support, they had utterly beaten up the two blood demons.

    The beating had torn open the blood demons¡¯ flesh. They were drenched in blood, looking extremely miserable.

    They could already smell the aura of death. If this continued, they might end up dying here.

    ¡°Self-detonate?¡± Feng Baiyuughed coldly when he heard the eighteenth blood demonmander. ¡°I want to see if you have the guts to do so!¡±

    Once again, Feng Baiyu and the Donghua Sect¡¯s high elder attacked the eighteenth blood demonmander with all their strength. Several terrifying attacks fell on him, fresh blood spattering into the sky.

    ¡°sh!¡± Feng Baiyu shouted coldly, shing out with his saber.

    The terrifying saber light, which had the power to cut through the heavens, instantly destroyed the eighteenth blood demonmander¡¯s bloody hand. Then, the terrifying saber qi continued forward and struck him, sending him flying out.

    The Donghua Sect¡¯s high elder immediately seized the opportunity. True primeval surged out wildly. The primeval qi of heaven and earth instantly converged on his position, and he sent a finger art flying at the eighteenth blood demonmander.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The heavens shook under that finger martial skill.

    An enormous finger descended from the void, flying toward the eighteenth blood demonmander¡¯s be as fast as lightning.

    This was the Donghua Sect¡¯s restricted martial art. Only top figures like their sect leader and high elders could cultivate the Sky Lifting Finger.

    The eighteenth blood demonmander¡¯s protective true primeval was like a piece of paper or a block of tofu under the Sky Lifting Finger. The attack pierced through and struck his be.

    A terrifying force erupted, impacting the eighteenth blood demonmander¡¯s soul and making him scream in agony.

    ¡°Ah! Damn it, the holy cult will avenge me!¡± The eighteenth blood demonmander let out a furious roar of indignation that shook heaven and earth.

    The Sky Lifting Finger tore his divine nascent to shreds. Starting from his head, every part of him blew up, leaving no corpse behind.

    A Divine Nascent realm powerhouse fell just like that, shocking the people.

    Divine Nascent realm powerhouses were existences that stood at the absolute apex of the Great Chu Empire. Their life forces were iparably powerful, so they could live over a thousand years. They would not die easily.

    The Floating Cloud Sword Sect, Burning Incense Valley, and Mountain River Sect were top-tier sects with only one Divine Nascent realm powerhouse overseeing them. If that Divine Nascent realm powerhouse died, the sect would immediately go into decline.

    Divine Nascent realm powerhouses were stabilizing forces for the sects of the Great Chu Empire.

    After killing the eighteenthmander, Feng Baiyu and the Donghua Sect¡¯s high elder immediately made their way toward the neenthmander.

    The neenth blood demonmander was already having difficulty withstanding the attacks of Yun Tu and the other Divine Nascent realm powerhouse. Seeing the two killing the eighteenth blood demonmander and making their way here, he immediately fell into despair.

    ¡°I¡¯ll fight you to the death!¡± A vicious look appeared in the neenth blood demonmander¡¯s eyes as he realized there was no way out for him.

    A devastating aura erupted from him, causing Yun Tu and the others¡¯ expressions to darken.

    ¡°Not good, fall back quickly, he¡¯s going to self-detonate!¡± Yun Tu and the other Divine Nascent realm powerhouse immediately fell back. Feng Baiyu and the Donghua Sect¡¯s high elder also halted their advance and pulled back.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As a deafening noise rang out, a terrifying storm of destruction spread, mming Yun Tu and the others.

    Their protective true primeval exploded, and they were sent flying back like a sack of potatoes. They vomitedrge mouthfuls of blood and theirplexions turned pale.

    The self-detonation of a Divine Nascent realm was very terrifying.

    Yun Tu and the other Divine Nascent realm powerhouse were closer to the explosion and suffered heavy injuries.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, thinking of running? Not happening!¡± Feng Baiyu shouted coldly at this time. He grabbed at the empty air, as if grasping heaven and earth in his hand, and confined a divine nascent.

    The neenth blood demonmander had only detonated his physical body earlier. His divine nascent was still intact; as long as his divine nascent managed to escape, he could be reborn by possessing someone else.

    Obviously, he did not dare topletely self-detonate.

    ¡°No!¡± The neenth blood demonmander¡¯s divine nascent let out terrified shrieks.

    However, Feng Baiyu did not show any mercy. He crushed the neenth blood demonmander¡¯s divine nascent with his hand.

 Chapter 523 â€“ Aftermath

    <h4>Chapter 523 ¨C Aftermath</h4>

    Under Chen Fan¡¯s lead, all the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s disciples had seemingly gone crazy, sweeping thends and ughtering the blood demons. The blood demons¡¯ screams rang out endlessly.

    No one pitied these blood demons who hadmitted countless atrocities, let alone sympathized with them. They killed every blood demon they could find, and if they couldn''t kill them, they tried to tear a piece of flesh off them.

    Curtains finally fell on this battle half a dayter.

    Facing the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s pursuit, the blood demon army, whose spirits had already crumbled, were like pigs ormbs waiting to be ughtered. All of them were killed.

    Their fates were already sealed when the eighteenth and neenth blood demonmanders fell.

    The war at the Spring Autumn Sect shook the entire Great Chu Empire. While the sect suffered heavy casualties, the losses on the blood demons¡¯ side were so great it shocked the people.

    The blood demon army that came to attack the Spring Autumn Sect was annihted, and even the twomanding Divine Nascent realm powerhouses failed to escape.

    The blood demons¡¯ side had sufferedplete defeat in this tragic battle.

    After this campaign, the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s arrogant style was thoroughly suppressed.

    The blood demons wreaking havoc across the Great Chu Empire also gradually vanished without a trace, as if they were scared from the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s ughter, and had gone into hibernation again.

    However, the orthodox alliance did not ease up. Instead, they mobilized numerous experts, including Divine Nascent realm powerhouses, who formed attack groups to hunt down the blood demons and eradicate their strongholds.

    Through this purge, numerous strongholds of the Blood Demon Cave suffered devastating blows. Their blood demon army got wiped out, and even the presiding Divine Nascent realm powerhouses failed to escape.

    In short, this expedition decimated seventy to eighty percent of the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s forces.

    Meanwhile, the Spring Autumn Sect sorted themselves out after that tragic battle. They had suffered a heavy blow. They lost about a third of their disciples, and more than thirty percent of the elders, who were their topbat forces.

    If it weren¡¯t for Chen Fan¡¯s power-up at the critical moment, the Spring Autumn Sect wouldn¡¯t have suffered such little losses. They might have even gotten annihted.

    As news of these events spread, Chen Fan''s name sparked another storm in the Great Chu Empire. It became widely known that Chen Fan had single-handedly saved the Spring Autumn Sect in this battle.

    Without Chen Fan, it was likely that the Spring Autumn Sect would have been left with only Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu to lead an empty sect. A top-tier sect that had stood for thousands of years would have met the fate of the five sects recently annihted.

    After this battle, although the Spring Autumn Sect was greatly wounded, no one thought that they would fall.

    The sect also organized a massive funeral, setting up monuments for the disciples and elders who had sacrificed themselves in this great battle.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had survived near-destruction and emerged more united than ever before.

    Originally, the internal struggles within the sect were very severe; after this battle, the factions hadpletely disappeared.

    All the leadership became tightly knit like a rope. The disciples also gained a lot through the baptism of this blood cmity.

    For the sect, this battle became a crucible where only the strongest survived and weaker elements were purged.

    The survivors were all elite among the elites. In the future, they would be the pirs of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Despite the devastation, the sect swiftly rebuilt itself to its former glory. Everyone hid their sorrow, a look of determination visible in their gazes. Everyone worked even harder cultivating themselves.

    This battle helped many people realize that they needed strength to survive in this harsh world. Without sufficient strength, they would be eliminated sooner orter.

    The failed assault by the blood demon army left lingering doubts¡ªwould the Blood Demon Cave strike again?

    Without someone like Chen Fan to turn the tide, what would their fate be? Rather than relying on others, they understood the need to rely on their own strength.

    On a mountain peak at the Heavenly Vein Mountains, Chen Fan stood at the top. The winds brushed past like a warm spring breeze, imparting a sense of calm and bliss.

    Chen Fan looked in the distance. The entire Spring Autumn Sect was still in the process of rebuilding, showing a scene of fervor.

    All of a sudden, someone descended from the sky,nding next to Chen Fan. It was none other than Wei Buyu.

    ¡°What are you looking at?¡±

    ¡°Master.¡±

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation has surpassed Wei Buyu, Chen Fan still showed his due respect and said, ¡°Although the sect has experienced a tragic battle and suffered heavy losses, it is now like the springtime bamboo shoots after a rain, full of vigor and vitality.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Although this battle caused the sect great losses, it also allowed the sect to shine with immense vigor. Soon, more experts will emerge.¡± Wei Buyu gazed far away, sighing. ¡°The world is now in the hands of youngsters like you. It¡¯s about time for us old timers to step aside.¡±

    ¡°Master, you¡¯re not even a hundred years old. You¡¯re still in your prime.¡± Chen Fan smiled.

    Divine Nascent realm powerhouses could easily live to eight hundred years old, while Core Formation realm experts could live to five hundred. Wei Buyu was not even a hundred years old; he was indeed still in his prime.

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Wei Buyuughed freely.

    ¡°Master, when is the Grand Sect Conference?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    The Blood Demon Cave was severely weakened due to the recent purge and hadpletely hidden themselves like a turtle, not daring to raise their heads.

    The Great Chu Empire¡¯s overall situation had already stabilized, so the Grand Sect Conference could be safely convened.

    ¡°I was about to talk to you about this. It¡¯s basically confirmed to be a monthter. In the imperial city,¡± Wei Buyu said.

    ¡°A monthter? That soon?¡± Chen Fan nodded and said.

    As far as Chen Fan knew, the Grand Sect Conference was a very important event for all the sects across the Great Chu Empire.

    There were a total of thirty-six nations in the Hong Domain. The sects in every nation would hold their respective Grand Sect Conference to select their best geniuses. Then, these people would be sent to an ancient ruin to undergo a trial.

    Many people would sessfully advance into the Divine Nascent realm in every iteration of the Grand Sect Conference, soaring to the sky in a single step.

    It was also because of this that all the sects attached great importance to the Grand Sect Conference. Each nation only had thirty spots; thepetition would be very fierce.

    Each spot represented a Divine Nascent powerhouse.

    With another Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, the overall strength of a sect would be doubled.

 Chapter 524 - Grand Sect Conference Begins

    <h4>Chapter 524 - Grand Sect Conference Begins</h4>

    Time went by quickly, and a month passed.

    Chen Fan arrived at the council hall where nearly a dozen holy disciples, including Gongsun Long, Lei Wushuang, and Yue Zhongtian, were already present.

    They greeted Chen Fan warmly, and Chen Fan nodded in response, returning their greetings.

    ¡°Morning, Brother Chen!¡±

    ¡°Brother Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Brother Chen Fan, given your outstanding talent, please give us some guidance in the future.¡±

    Chen Fan had be a new legend within the entire Spring Autumn Sect. Countless disciples idolized him, including holy disciples like Lei Wushuang.

    His rise to prominence had been meteoric, and their entire sect would have been destroyed if not for Chen Fan overturning the sect''s recent dire situation.

    Though not all holy disciples worshiped him, they held a deep respect for him.

    The Grand Sect Conference was before them. Despite the sect''s recent ordeal, the atmosphere within was now spirited and passionate.

    After experiencing the baptism of fire and blood, many disciples had made great progress.

    Gongsun Long, Lei Wushuang, and the others, genius among geniuses, had further advanced thanks to their experiences in the recent battle. Supported by the sect, their progress had been rapid during this period.

    The Grand Sect Conference influenced the future of a sect. Therefore, every sect viewed it with great importance and would spend an enormous amount of resources to nurture the geniuses within the sect.

    Gongsun Long, Lei Wushuang, and the others present were the ones chosen by the sect to represent it.

    Soon, the sect leader, the high elder, and others arrived. They said a few simple words and led Chen Fan and the others to the imperial city to participate in this Grand Sect Conference.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go. To the imperial city,¡± said Feng Baiyu after looking around.

    Everyone took to the skies and left the Spring Autumn Sect, flying in the imperial city¡¯s direction.

    About a dozen figures flew above the sea of clouds, tearing theyers of clouds apart quickly.

    ¡°Chen Fan, if all goes well, you are sure to obtain a spot,¡± Feng Baiyu said to Chen Fan as they flew.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Sect Leader, securing a spot won''t be difficult for me. I want to know more about the Grand Sect Conference.¡±

    Although the Great Chu Empire only had thirty slots for the Grand Sect Conference, Chen Fan was very confident in his strength.

    ¡°Then allow me to exin,¡± Feng Baiyu said, ¡°The Grand Sect Conference is a grand event for the major forces across the entire Hong Domain. It takes ce once every ten years. As you may know, it''s an opportunity for disciples from various sects to strive towards entering the Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°The conference''s origins trace back to the blood cmity that shook the Tianwu Continent three thousand years ago. I''m sure you''ve heard some tales about it.

    ¡°Back then, the Hong Domain was one of the strong forces in the eastern continent. However, the blood cmity resulted in the demise of many top forces and experts, greatly weakening us.

    ¡°Therefore, some stronger forces in the Hong Domain kickstarted the Grand Sect Conference in hopes of improving the situation. After selecting the most outstanding geniuses in the Hong Domain, they would send them into an ancient ruin to train,pete for opportunities, and raise their strengths.¡±

    ¡°Sect Leader, which ancient ruin will the selected disciples visit this time?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    ¡°I heard it¡¯s the Hidden Dragon Ind.¡± Feng Baiyu continued, ¡°This Hidden Dragon Ind was a top-tier force in the Hong Domain three thousand years ago, with a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse in the sect. Unfortunately, he fell in that great battle, and the whole ind was sealed away with a formation. A while ago, the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Emperor Li tore an opening in the Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s formation, allowing those below the Divine Nascent realm to enter.¡±

    ¡°Emperor Li?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered.

    Low-ranked empire, high-ranked imperial court, and such referred to the strength of a nation.

    The Hong Domain was made up of a total of thirty-six nations, with only one imperial court. That was the Great Li Imperial Court, and the other nations were all empires.

    In a manner of speaking, the Great Li Imperial Court was the ruler of the entire Hong Domain. If they so wanted, they could easily annihte the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Feng Baiyu said, ¡°Great Li Imperial Court is the Hong Domain¡¯s strongest force, bar none. Emperor Li is the only known Heavenly Star realm powerhouse across the entire Hong Domain. As for whether there are any other Heavenly Star realm powerhouses in hiding, that is anyone¡¯s guess.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s irises shrunk.

    Above the Divine Nascent realm was the Heavenly Star realm. With theirprehension of the path of martial arts, the power they wield could easily destroy cities. In front of a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse, a Divine Nascent realm was like a child.

    ¡°The ancient ruin this time... It will be a great opportunity for you. After all, it¡¯s opened for the first time in three thousand years. Who knows how many treasures are inside?

    ¡°Moreover, it is said that the Hidden Dragon Ind is called that because a divine dragon once bled over the ind. The natural treasures on the ind absorbed the dragon¡¯s blood and mutated, greatly increasing their powers.

    ¡°If you can obtain enough treasures, advancing into the Divine Nascent realm wouldn¡¯t be a difficult task. So, you must seize this opportunity and not waste it,¡± Feng Baiyu said solemnly.

    It was a newly opened ancient ruin, not to mention it being the remains of a top-tier force from three thousand years ago. If it wasn¡¯t for the opening allowing only those below the Divine Nascent realm to enter, the Great Li Imperial Court would have sent Divine Nascent realm powerhouses in there to hunt for treasures. They would never have a chance now.

    Chen Fan nodded fiercely. The Grand Sect Conference was indeed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him.

    The imperial city was only fifty thousand kilometers away from the Spring Autumn Sect. Chen Fan and the others were all top experts, so it only took them less than half a day to arrive at the imperial city.

    They had all visited the imperial city before, so the marvelous structures held no power over them.

    The Selection tform was crowded since early morning. The imperial city had mobilized a ten-thousand-strong army to maintain order, sealing off the area.

    Anyone who came to watch had to maintain a certain distance from the Selection tform and couldn¡¯t disturb the conference.

    Currently, ten fighting arenas stood on the Selection tform. Each of them was very wide, sufficient for Core Formation realm experts to do battle on them.

    Every fighting arena was enveloped in powerful formations, personallyid down by Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    After all, the destructive powers wielded by Core Formation realm experts were too great. Ordinary arenas would copse after a few matches.

    Although the Grand Sect Conference was a grand event for the sects, the participants were not limited to the sects. The top prestigious ns in the imperial city were also qualified to take part as well.

    Some prestigious ns of the imperial city were already here, in the viewing gallery, and the Chen n was among them.

 Chapter 525 - Gathered at the Selection Platform

    <h4>Chapter 525 - Gathered at the Selection tform</h4>

    The qualifications required to participate in the Grand Sect Conference weren¡¯t stringent; they extended beyond sects to include prestigious ns, provided participants were under forty years old.

    Despite thex entry requirements, a degree of self-awareness was crucial.

    The gap between prestigious ns and sects was enormous. Consequently, ny-nine percent of the prestigious n members were merely here to spectate and enjoy. They had no ns to participate. Even if they did send someone, they would only be embarrassing themselves.

    To put it into perspective, among the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s participants, no one was even below the fourth level of the Core Formation realm. However, even participants at the fifth or sixth level were only fodder in the Grand Sect Conference.

    Those truly qualified to fight for the thirty slots had to have high-level Core Formation realm cultivation, which meant they had to be at the seventh level at the very least. In the imperial city, a seventh-level Core Formation realm could easily be the patriarch of a n.

    Take the previous number one great n of the imperial city, the Qin n, for example. Their strongest member, Qin Pokong, was only at the eighth level, and their patriarch, Qin Wudi, was only at the seventh level.

    As for the top-tier sects, there were at least thirty to forty of them across the entire Great Chu Empire and each had nurtured numerous geniuses that were at least at the seventh level of the Core Formation realm.

    That was the difference in strength between ns and sects.

    At the corner of the viewing gallery, the prestigious ns of the imperial city had pretty much all arrived, and the Chen n was also among them.

    During this recent period, the Chen n had enjoyed unprecedented freedom in the imperial city, especially when news of the battle in the Spring Autumn Sect spread throughout the Great Chu Empire. The Chen n¡¯s poprity reached a new peak.

    Everyone now knew that Chen Fan had won the life-and-death duel against Duan Jingtian and saved the day at the Spring Autumn Sect, defeating the notorious Young Master Xue Jia, whose fierce reputation was well-known across the empire.

    Young Master Xue Jia was a fearsome character who had killed Li Fan, the person ranked fifth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, and Chen Fan had killed such a monster. What did that mean?

    It meant that Chen Fan had the strength to be ranked within the top five of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard at the very least!

    Many people even had the opinion that Chen Fan was the number one figure among the younger generation in the Great Chu Empire!

    ¡°Brother Chen, now that your son has be famous in the Great Chu and is unofficially known as the number one person of the younger generation in the empire, he will surely be able to obtain a slot in this Grand Sect Conference.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Brother Yihai is right. With your son¡¯s talent, he can enter the ancient ruin and encounter many fortuitous encounters. By the time he leaves, he might already be a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse¡ªa true peak expert.¡±

    The Su and Yang ns sat together with the Chen n, sharing their smiles and high spirits.

    Chen Zhengqing smiled, ¡°You¡¯re ttering him. While Xiaofan has gained some fame, it¡¯s only within the Great Chu Empire. There are countless prodigies in the world, many of whom are more outstanding than him. I just hope that he returns from the ancient ruin safely; that is enough for me.¡±

    On the other side, the Nangong n members watched Chen Zhengqing talking andughing with Su Yihai and Yang Rong, feeling a pang of bitterness.

    Although the Nangong n was still one of the four great ns, their decline was bing increasingly evident. In contrast, the Chen n''s prominence was on the rise.

    Despite the Chen n''s overall strength being equivalent to a quasi-first-rate n in the imperial city, no one dared to underestimate them.

    The patriarchs of the Su and Yang ns, both significant ns in the city, had humbled themselves to engage in small talk with Chen Zhengqing. Why? Because of Chen Fan.

    Currently, who in the entire Great Chu Empire did not know about Chen Fan?

    Watching the Chen n, the Nangong n members were feeling bitter inside.

    Suddenly, the nearby crowd stirred.

    ¡°Look, the Donghua Sect is here!¡±

    A rush of wind swept through the air as several figures appeared, led by none other than the Donghua Sect¡¯s high elder, who came to the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s aid recently.

    ¡°The Donghua Sect is a top-tier sect ranked within the top ten of the Great Chu Empire. Unfortunately, Xue Jia killed their number one holy disciple, Li Fan. Now, their chances of securing a slot in this Grand Sect Conference are uncertain.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wrong about that. Although Li Fan is the Donghua Sect¡¯s strongest holy disciple, their number two holy disciple, Shen Fan, isn¡¯t weak either. I¡¯m sure the Donghua Sect has poured all their resources into him during this period. Obtaining a slot wouldn¡¯t be a difficult task for them.¡±

    Another group of figures descended. They belonged to the Great Mountain Sect.

    ¡°Great Mountain Sect¡¯s people have also arrived. That is Wang Yue, isn¡¯t he? Ranked seventh on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard.¡±

    The Great Mountain Sect was also a top-tier sect ranked within the top ten of the Great Chu Empire.

    It was said that all of their disciples cultivated earth-attributed cultivation techniques and had boundless physical strength. Their defensive prowess was also shocking, so they were extremely troublesome to deal with.

    ¡°Look, the Ancient Sage Sect and Immortal Inquisition Sect havee together.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s Ao Xu and Pei Ce, ranked fourth and fifth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard. My goodness, such deep and rich cultivation. They¡¯re at the ninth level at the very least!¡±

    ¡°The Grand Sect Conference truly lives up to its name as a once-a-decade grand asion. Not only can we see the top geniuses of the various sects, but we can also see these Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. These people are the true supreme experts of the Great Chu Empire!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? They may look like ordinary people without any cultivation, but that''s because they''ve achieved a natural state. So impressive!¡±

    As time passed, the sound of people arriving filled the air, and more individuals descended onto the Selection tform, creating a bustling atmosphere.

    Many had heard of these geniuses but had never seen them in person. The Grand Sect Conference provided the perfect opportunity to catch a glimpse of these renowned figures and even some Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    The crowd murmured among themselves.

    ¡°Look, the Cloud Sky Sect, the Violet Sun Sect, and the Heaven¡¯s Will Pce have arrived together. My god, these three sects are top powers in the Great Chu Empire, ranked within the top three! Such grandeur!¡±

    ¡°Qi Feifan, Lin Wushang, and Zhantai Liuli are the top three rankers on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard. Rumor has it they¡¯ve surpassed the ninth level and reached the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core!¡±

    ¡°How can I evenpare myself to them? It¡¯s too damn vexing! They¡¯re in their early thirties and already supreme experts. Meanwhile, we¡¯re only in the Yuanfu realm. Sigh...¡±

    ¡°Hoho, you can¡¯tpare yourself to them. They are geniuses, monsters, but what are you? Just a part of the crowd. Be content with reaching the Yuanfu realm.¡±

    In the viewing gallery, the sects sat ording to their ranks.

    Although there wasn¡¯t an official ranking, the various sects had a rough idea and wouldn¡¯t upy ces randomly.

    The arrival of the Cloud Sky Sect, Violet Sun Sect, and Heaven¡¯s Will Pce immediately drew the attention of the other sects. They were the undisputed top three sects of the Great Chu Empire.

    ¡°All the great sects have arrived.¡±

    At this moment, more and more sects arrived and descended on the Selection tform before going up to the viewing gallery, causing quite amotion.

    ¡°The Suspended Sky Pce¡¯s people are here.¡±

    ¡°The Jade Firmament Pce is also here.¡±

    ¡°Those people are from the Divine Light Sect.¡±

    ¡°The Floating Cloud Sword Sect has also arrived.¡±

    ¡°Look, the Spring Autumn Sect, they¡¯re here!¡±

    Everyone looked into the sky, feeling their hearts pounding. The various top sects and powers of the Great Chu Empire have all gathered at the Selection tform today.

 Chapter 526 - Reverend Myriad Virtue

    <h4>Chapter 526 - Reverend Myriad Virtue</h4>

    ¡°Look, that''s the Spring Autumn Sect! They¡¯re here!¡± a voice called out from the crowd, instantly drawing countless gazes.

    The attention wasn¡¯t on the speaker but on the group of people flying in from afar¡ªthe Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s party.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was an upper-middle sect within the Great Chu Empire, ranked around the twentieth, not within the top ten.

    Although the sect had two Divine Nascent realm powerhouses, Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu were both in the first-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Some sects might have only one Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, but if they were at the second level, they could easily be seen as equivalent to two or three first-level experts.

    In previous iterations of the Grand Sect Conference, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s arrival never caused such a stir. This time, however, they drew everyone''s attention due to the recent battle at their sect.

    The eighteenth and neenth blood demonmanders had led thousands of blood demon troops to attack the Spring Autumn Sect to exterminate the sect, but they were annihted instead.

    This battle shook the Great Chu Empire and dealt a serious blow to the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s arrogance.

    The Spring Autumn Sect had overshadowed other sects recently, not only because of the battle but also because of Chen Fan.

    Currently, who in the whole of the Great Chu Empire did not know of Chen Fan?

    Under the crowd¡¯s attention, Chen Fan and the others descended on the Selection tform.

    Chen Fan nced around, noting to himself, <i>There are a lot of experts here.</i>

    His gaze was mostly focused on Qi Feifan, Lin Wushuang, and Zhantai Liuli. These three were just as the crowd had gossiped: they had reached the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    As for the others, their cultivation was mostly in the high-level Core Formation realm.

    Reaching the high-level Core Formation realm before the age of forty was already remarkable.

    As Chen Fan surveyed the crowd, he noticed Qi Feifan and the others scrutinizing him, their gazes sharp as if trying to see through him.

    News of Chen Fan killing Young Master Xue Jia had long since spread across the Great Chu Empire.

    Since Young Master Xue Jia could kill Li Fan, themon assumption was that the blood demon was in the one-revolution Golden Core realm. And since he could kill Young Master Xue Jia, that was enough to put pressure on them.

    After all, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level was only at the ninth level.

    Chen Fan did not mind Qi Feifan and the others¡¯ gazes. Although the three of them were in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core level, they were only about as strong as Young Master Xue Jia. He did not feel any pressure at all.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Under the crowd¡¯s gazes, Chen Fan leaped across space and headed in the Chen n¡¯s direction.

    ¡°Father, Mother, Uncle, Grandfather,¡± Chen Fan greeted Chen Zhengqing and the others. They had alle to the Grand Sect Conference.

    ¡°Haha, Xiaofan, your name has spread throughout the Great Chu Empire. I¡¯ve been hearing it a lot recently,¡± Chen Tianxiong said,ughing, his tone carrying a hint of pride.

    Chen Zhengqing patted Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder and said with a smile, ¡°My boy, you haven¡¯t embarrassed your mother and me.¡±

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan!¡± Chen Qingqing called out sweetly before jumping into Chen Fan¡¯s embrace.

    Chen Fan tousled Chen Qingqing¡¯s head and said, ¡°Not bad, you little girl, you¡¯re already at the seventh level of the Yuanfu realm. Very good, but you mustn¡¯t get proud and full of yourself, understand?¡±

    ¡°Big Brother Chen Fan, I¡¯m not little anymore.¡± Chen Qingqing made a face and purposely pushed her small chest out.

    When the Nangong n members saw Chen Fan, their gazes turned dark and gloomy, filled with regret.

    ¡°So, he is Chen Fan? He¡¯s really young. I reckon he¡¯s barely twenty. And you say he is already at the ninth level? How terrifying.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, what¡¯s even scarier is that he became that strong in just three years! It¡¯s simply unprecedented, and a feat that would never be repeated.¡±

    ¡°Everyone¡¯s saying he obtained an incredible legacy. I wonder if that¡¯s true.¡±

    ¡°So what if it¡¯s true? Dare you have any designs on him?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people¡¯s gazes were on Chen Fan, discussing him.

    Chen Fan chatted for a while with his family before returning to the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side, awaiting the official start of the conference.

    By noon, all the sects had arrived. The viewing gallery was also full. Numerous powerful auras rose to the sky, stirring the winds and clouds, changing the color of heaven and earth.

    The crowd waited a little longer. Then, a powerful aura suddenly came from the sky. The crowd looked up and saw a green ray in the distance.

    The green ray streaked through the sky like lightning, arriving above the Selection tform in an instant. It transformed into a middle-aged man with an imposing presence.

    Behind the middle-aged man, Lord Chu and several other top royal officials also appeared.

    Feng Baiyu and the others immediately stood up from their seats upon seeing the middle-aged man and saluted him respectfully, ¡°We greet Reverend Myriad Virtue!¡±

    Chen Fan was shocked.

    Who was he? For the leaders of all the sects present to act so respectfully, this person¡¯s identity must be extraordinary.

    It was rumored that there was still a high emperor in the imperial family, who was also a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse. However, this middle-aged man couldn''t be him.

    Even the imperial family''s high emperor wouldn''tmand such respect from all the sect leaders.

    A thought shed across Chen Fan¡¯s mind, <i>Could he be an emissary of the Great Li Imperial Court?</i>

    Only someone of that stature could warrant such respect from the sect leaders.

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>, since you¡¯re ready, let¡¯s not waste any time and begin.¡± Reverend Myriad Virtue nodded slightly, then descended onto the highest stand. A maid immediately brought some wine and spirit fruits over.

    Reverend Myriad Virtue was indeed an emissary from the Great Li Imperial Court. He hade to the Great Chu Empire to oversee the organization of the Grand Sect Conference.

    The Great Li Imperial Court was currently the true ruler of the Hong Domain. Emperor Li, a Heavenly Star realm, could wipe out all the forces in the Great Chu Empire with a mere breath.

    Even though Reverend Myriad Virtue was only a third-level Divine Nascent realm expert, he was an emissary of the Great Li Imperial Court, which made him above the others.

    A Core Formation realm expert from the royal family stepped into a fighting arena. He looked around and dered, ¡°I¡¯m sure everyone is well aware of the rules of the Grand Sect Conference. I shan¡¯t borate on it.

    ¡°This time, the number of participants totaled up to seven hundred and twenty. You will be split into ten groups, with exactly seventy-two people in each group. You will be matched against one another. Each victory will earn you one point. The thirty people with the most points will earn a slot for themselves.

    ¡°To ensure that not too many experts end up in a single group, we have already assigned the groupings of the participants in advance under the supervision of Reverend Myriad Virtue. Now, I shall announce the groupings.

    ¡°Group one: Qi Feifan, Zhang Qing, Ma Feng...

    ¡°Group two: Lin Wushang, Shi Yue, Xia Han...

    ¡°Group three: Zhantai Liuli, Zhao Xun, Chu Ziheng...

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Group ten: Chen Fan, Dongfang Yu, Ren Qianshan...¡±

    Soon, this top royal official finished reading the ten groups, and the curtains were officially lifted at the Grand Sect Conference.

 Chapter 527 - Lei Wushuangâ€™s Death

    <h4>Chapter 527 - Lei Wushuang¡¯s Death</h4>

    ¡°Alright, the Grand Sect Conference matches shall begin now!¡±

    All the attendees were boiling with excitement, as this was a once-in-a-decade event.

    Unlike a martial meet like the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition, this was a grand stage where the top geniuses of the entire Great Chu Empirepeted.

    Excelling in a martial meet like the Four Sects Martial Arts Competition was one thing, but shining at the Grand Sect Conference was a whole other deal. Participants could be eliminated even in their very first match.

    Those who stood out on this stage would go on to represent the Great Chu Empire at Hidden Dragon Ind,peting with geniuses from other nations in the Hong Domain.

    This was the ultimate test for geniuses.

    Throughout history, many exceptional talents have emerged victorious on this stage, transforming from a snake into a dragon.

    For example, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s leader, Feng Baiyu, and high elder Yun Tu were once top holy disciples who excelled at the Grand Sect Conference. Their outstanding performance earned them a spot to explore ancient ruins, leading to great gains. Today, they were mighty Divine Nascent realm powerhouses, at the pinnacle of the Great Chu Empire.

    This was also why the various forces across the entire Great Chu Empire, and even the Hong Domain, attached such great importance to the Grand Sect Conference.

    ¡°Group One, Zhang Qing versus Yang Chong. Group Two, Lin Wushang versus Wang Qi. Group Three, Zhao Xun versus Shao Sheng...¡± The top royal official presiding over the assembly read aloud. The geniuses whose names were called quickly went on stage and began battling.

    The two participants from Group One were disciples of the Floating Cloud Sword Sect and Divine Light Sect, both at the seventh level. They began fighting intensely as soon as they went on stage.

    For Group Two, Lin Wushang was the first to enter the arena, but his opponent did not even dare to go up on stage and directly admitted defeat.

    It was understandable since Lin Wushang was ranked second on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard and a supreme expert in the one-revolution Golden Core realm.

    In contrast, Wang Qi was only at the seventh level. The strength gap between the two was immense. Rather than face inevitable defeat, potential injury, and humiliation, Wang Qi chose to surrender to save himself for future battles.

    The Grand Sect Conference had a point umtion system from the battles rather than an elimination format.

    The contenders in each group would spar with the other contenders in the same group. The winner would obtain one point. The thirty highest scorers would earn a ce at Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Every point was crucial, so contenders risked everything to win.

    However, if the difference in strength between the two fighters was too great, one point wasn¡¯t worth the risk of injury. A single palm strike from a much stronger opponent could easily send a contender flying off the stage and leave them hurt.

    The Grand Sect Conference did not allow time for rest and recovery. Any injury could directly affect a participant¡¯s fights further down the line.

    shes of des and swords immediately shone on the ten fighting arenas as the participants¡¯ cultivation and qi erupted. Terrifying qi currents tumbled in the air, causing the spectating crowd to exim from time to time.

    Chen Fan¡¯s name hadn¡¯t been called yet, and he also wasn¡¯t in a hurry to participate. Since he was at the ninth level and could fight those at the three-revolution Golden Core realm, he was way stronger than the 720 contenders.

    He was, very likely, the strongest among all the contenders. Even Qi Feifan, ranked first on the leaderboard, was no match for him.

    At the sixth fighting arena, Gongsun Long was on stage.

    His opponent was a holy disciple of the Cloud Sky Sect, simrly at the seventh level. They fought back and forth; the battle was very hot and intense.

    Gongsun Long was the number two holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    He used to be at the sixth level of the Core Formation realm. After the battle, the sect had provided him with great support, allowing his cultivation to soar, reaching thete stage of the seventh level. He was just a step away from the eighth-level Core Formation realm.

    Unfortunately, even that kind of strength couldn¡¯t guarantee him a spot in the top thirty.

    Chen Fan had taken a look earlier and realized that sixteen participants were at the ninth level. If nothing unexpected happened, they were sure to earn a spot for themselves.

    So, thepetition was actually seven hundred and four people fighting for less than fourteen spots.

    Meanwhile, there were forty to fifty people at the eighth level, with some of them being the number one holy disciples of various sects. Consequently, it would be truly difficult for Gongsun Long to seize a spot for himself.

    And if even Gongsun Long had basically zero chance, nothing needed to be said about Yue Zhongtian, Lei Wushuang, and the others who were inferior to him.

    Therefore, Feng Baiyu also did not hold high hopes for Gongsun Long and the others in the Grand Sect Conference. He only wanted them to gain some experience byparing notes with the top geniuses of the other sects.

    The Spring Autumn Sect ced its true hopes on Chen Fan. Feng Baiyu and the others were confident he would secure a spot.

    If Chen Fan couldn''t earn a spot, then no one among the seven hundred and twenty participants could.

    Chen Fan abruptly sensed two sharp gazes directed at him. Turning around, he saw that one belonged to Dongfang Yu, and the other to someone wearing royal robes, with an imposing appearance and sharp features¡ªthe eighth prince, Chu Pengfei.

    Dongfang Yu was hostile toward Chen Fan. As for why, he could roughly guess a thing or two but didn¡¯t put it to heart. Although Dongfang Yu had improved significantly, reaching the ninth level, he still wasn¡¯t a match for Chen Fan. His progress was great, but Chen Fan¡¯s was beyondpare.

    As for the eighth prince, Chu Pengfei, Chen Fan''s eyes flickered briefly as he guessed the reason for his hostility.

    ¡°Group Ten, Jin Yang versus Lei Wushuang!¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    As soon as the officiator¡¯s voice fell, a golden figure leaped onto the fighting arena. He was the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s top disciple, Jin Yang. He was ranked twelfth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard and was at the ninth level.

    Lei Wushuang gritted his teeth; ultimately, he chose to stand up and fight.

    ¡°Jin Yang, please advise me!¡± Lei Wushuang said with a solemn expression.

    He had wanted to surrender but was somewhat unwilling to do so. Even though he was sure to lose, he didn¡¯t want to lose his momentum.

    Jin Yang looked at Lei Wushuang and said with a cold smile, ¡°Lei Wushuang, it has been a long time. You snatched my miraculous encounter back then. Now, it¡¯s time for you to pay back!¡±

    As soon as he finished speaking, Jin Yang turned into a streak of golden light, instantly appearing in front of Lei Wushuang. A resplendent golden light shone in his palm, transforming into a huge golden palm seal that flew toward Lei Wushuang.

    Jin Yang and Lei Wushuang had a history of hostility. When Jin Yang struck, he showed no mercy at all and aimed to kill.

    The Grand Sect Conference did not forbid killing, and any deaths were epted as part of the harsh reality.

    Seeing Jin Yang''s lethal strike, Lei Wushuang''s expression changed drastically.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    Sensing the oppressive forceing at him, he let out a roar and channeled his qi to the limit. Lightning shed and thunder rumbled around him, crackling chaotically as the silhouette of a thunder god appeared behind him.

    ¡°Thunder God Palm!¡±

    He threw out a palm strike, resembling the hand of a thunder god descending upon the mortal world.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    However, Lei Wushuang¡¯s attack was like a block of butter or tofu in front of Jin Yang¡¯s huge golden palm, shattering instantly.

    The terrifying palmnded on Lei Wushuang¡¯s chest.

    ¡°The price you have to pay is your death!¡± Jin Yang¡¯s cold voice rang out, his tone filled with icy killing intent.

    Lei Wushuang flew out instantly, his chest caved in. Blood bubbled from his seven orifices. He twitched a few times before breathing hisst.

 Chapter 528 - Do You Dare to Fight?

    <h4>Chapter 528 - Do You Dare to Fight?</h4>

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Lei Wushuang flew out with a dull thud, bleeding from his seven orifices. He twitched a few times before breathing hisst.

    The surroundings immediately fell silent.

    Everyone looked at the fallen Lei Wushuang in the fighting arena in shock.

    Jin Yang was so vicious as to kill Lei Wushuang in a single move!

    Although it was said that one¡¯s fate was left to the heavens at the Grand Sect Conference, people wouldn¡¯t strike to kill unless the rtionship between two sects was like fire and water and blood must be shed.

    However, the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s Jin Yang had dealt a fatal blow to Lei Wushuang.

    Such a situation hadn''t urred in the previous several Grand Sect Conferences. At most, participants suffered heavy injuries.

    A chilling light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, carrying a hint of killing intent. <i>Jin Yang, you¡¯re looking to die!</i>

    Although Chen Fan didn¡¯t have a deep friendship with Lei Wushuang, they were fellow disciples. Now that one of their own had been killed, there was no way he wouldn¡¯t be mad.

    Yue Zhongtian and the other Spring Autumn Sect holy disciples also wore frosty expressions, killing intent flickering in their eyes.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s grand elders shouted angrily, their rage rushing to their crowns, burning. Icy auras surged from them.

    Audacious!¡±

    ¡°Jin Yang, how dare you act so viciously!¡±

    ¡°Vicious?¡± Jin Yang looked at the enraged Spring Autumn Sect grand elders andughed coldly. ¡°The Grand Sect Conference isn¡¯t a ce to y house. Life and death are up to fate. A mere sixth-level Core Formation realm dares toe up on stage after getting matched with me. Isn¡¯t he just asking to die?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    Jin Yang¡¯s attitude infuriated the grand elders. Their auras directly exploded.

    Mournful wind noises immediately rang out. A grand elder leaped forth, wanting to overwhelm and kill Jin Yang.

    ¡°Insolence!¡± shouted someone coldly.

    From the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s side, a grand elder flew out first and appeared in front of Jin Yang. He said coldly,¡± What is the meaning of this? You could die in the fight if you aren¡¯t skilled enough. Everyone knows that! This is the Grand Sect Conference! It isn¡¯t some squabble in your sect. Get lost if you¡¯re scared of death.¡±

    The Golden Ring Sect¡¯s grand elder had indirectly called them cowards, showing no courtesy.

    The Spring Autumn Sect grand elder was also a hot-tempered person and immediately roared back, ¡°To hell with this bullshit! You were cozying up as the little spoon with some woman while I was battling blood demons like a warrior!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, what did you just say?! Is the Spring Autumn Sect trying to start a war with our Golden Ring Sect?¡±

    ¡°If you want a war, then war it is! Who¡¯s afraid of you!¡±

    True primeval surged from the two grand elders, seemingly ready to fight it out.

    The nearby crowd was also helpless about this and only shook their heads.

    Strictly speaking, Jin Yang was not at fault in this matter. After all, no rule said that killing was forbidden.

    ¡°Enough, back down. Don¡¯t disrupt the progress of the assembly!¡± Finally, Reverend Myriad Virtue spoke up. His voice was very mild, yet contained an authority that did not tolerate any opposition.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s grand elders¡¯ expressions changed.

    Soon, the grand elder said indignantly, ¡°Reverend Myriad Virtue, Jin Yang is cruel and vicious, killing our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s disciple wantonly. Is that not considered as disrupting the assembly, then?¡±

    Reverend Myriad Virtue¡¯s expression was cold as he indifferently said, ¡°The Grand Sect Conference has never forbidden killing. Despite knowing its futility, he still took the stage. That is courting death. Such stupidity... Who else deserves death if not him? Enough of this. I only need the final thirty nominees. If you feel indignant about it, you can deal with them in the same way.¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect members¡¯ faces became ashen, but they didn¡¯t say anything. They only looked at Jin Yang, their gazes full of icy murderous intent.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan opened his mouth and said, ¡°You¡¯re Jin Yang, huh.¡±

    He looked at Jin Yang, who was on the stage, as if he was looking at a dead man and said, ¡°Pray you don''t meet me so soon; it might just prolong your life. Of course, you can always surrender to save your worthless life!¡±

    Jin Yang¡¯s expression changed drastically. He had been fixated on killing Lei Wushuang and had forgotten about Chen Fan, also a member of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Although he wasn¡¯t weak, he wasn¡¯t confident at all whenpared to Chen Fan. Despite ranking twelfth on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, he paled inparison to Li Fan.

    Now that he had killed Lei Wushuang and Chen Fan had put out the word, he would die if he was matched against Chen Fan and went up on stage.

    ¡°What do you mean by this, Chen Fan? A threat?¡± The Golden Ring Sect¡¯s grand elder¡¯s expression also darkened.

    Chen Fan looked indifferently at this grand elder and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, so what if I¡¯m threatening you? Do you want to exchange a few moves with me? As long as you agree, I don¡¯t mind ying with you for a bit.¡±

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The nearby crowd mored when they heard Chen Fan.

    This Golden Ring Sect grand elder was at the peak of the ninth level, yet Chen Fan was taunting and challenging him.

    This Golden Ring Sect grand elder immediately flushed red with anger. Icy killing intent flickered in his eyes as he said, ¡°Chen Fan, don¡¯t think that you¡¯re invincible just because you killed Young Master Xue Jia. You think I¡¯m afraid of you?!¡±

    Chen Fan did not even look at this Golden Ring Sect grand elder. He looked at Reverend Myriad Virtue, and his voice resounded as he said, ¡°Reverend Myriad Virtue, it shouldn¡¯t count as breaking the rules if I fight this old coot to the death now, right?¡±

    Reverend Myriad Virtue¡¯s gaze fell on Chen Fan. He had heard some things about Chen Fan. After a brief moment of silence, he said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°Great!¡± Chen Fan nodded sharply, thenunched into the air. He looked at the Golden Ring Sect grand elder, wiggled his finger, and said, ¡°Old coot,e up here and meet your end!¡±

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Countless gazes shifted onto the Golden Ring Sect grand elder in a sh.

    Chen Fan was unofficially regarded as the leading figure among the younger generation for his actions against Young Master Xue Jia and his subsequent feats in saving the sect.

    His fierce reputation had spread throughout the Great Chu Empire long ago.

    Now that Chen Fan was calling out the Golden Ring Sect grand elder, would he dare to ept the fight?

    Even the grand elder seemed taken aback by Chen Fan''s audacity, challenged immediately after Reverend Myriad Virtue''s approval.

    All of a sudden, this Golden Ring Sect grand elder was stuck between a rock and a hard ce.

    Although he was at the peak-stage ninth-level Core Formation realm, Young Master Xue Jia was said to be a one-revolution Golden Core expert. If Chen Fan had killed even someone like that, how could he still dare to ept the fight?

    ¡°Trash, you¡¯re not afraid of me, are you? Why are you still standing there and noting up to fight me?¡± Chen Fan said coldly. He had long since noticed theplicated look on his target¡¯s face.

    Chen Fan¡¯s words were simply like a sharp knife, stabbing the grand elder¡¯s heart and making him tremble.

    If he epted the fight, there was a danger of him dying.

    If he refused to fight, then that was akin to admitting he was trash.

    In an instant, a huge, invisible pressure pressed down on this grand elder.

 Chapter 529 - A Single Attack is All I Need to Kill You

    <h4>Chapter 529 - A Single Attack is All I Need to Kill You</h4>

    All eyes were on the Golden Ring Sect grand elder.

    Would he dare to fight?

    An enormous, invisible pressure bore down on the grand elder, making him tremble uncontrobly.

    In the viewing gallery upied by the Golden Ring Sect, everyone wore grim expressions, including their ever-indifferent sect leader.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, just a piece of trash as I expected. Whatever. You cowering before death is within my expectations,¡± Chen Fan said, losing interest and preparing to descend.

    This Golden Ring Sect grand elder suddenly roared furiously. His voice shook the heavens as he eximed, ¡°<i>Roar</i>! You little bastard, if you want a fight, then I¡¯ll give you one! Who¡¯s afraid of whom!¡±

    His aura erupted, rising shockingly. His eyes were bloodshot, like those of an enraged wild beast. Ultimately, he had caved under the invisible pressure.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    He kicked off the ground, emanating a shocking aura that stirred the surrounding air.

    ¡°A single attack is all I need to kill you!¡± Chen Fan dered, wasting no time with unnecessary words. A cold light immediately shot out of his eyes. He grabbed at the empty air, and the iron spear appeared in his grasp.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan abruptly vanished from his spot, as if teleporting.

    Chen Fan appeared before the grand elder, his gaze calm and indifferent, and thrust his spear forward.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The spear''s force was so overwhelming that it seemed to make the very space around them roar with fury.

    The Golden Ring Sect grand elder, who had somewhat lost his rationality, instantly sensed an eerie wind and a deathly aura locking onto him.

    He shivered as he saw Chen Fan''s spearing at him.

    Chen Fan was like a grim reaper from hell, sending a chill from the elder¡¯s feet to his crown.

    ¡°No!¡±

    Fear and deep regret filled the Golden Ring Sect grand elder¡¯s eyes.

    <i>Why did I lose my mind earlier?</i>

    <i> Even if Chen Fan humiliated me, I at least would have stayed alive.</i>

    As Chen Fan¡¯s spear flew toward him, he heard the grim reaper¡¯s summons. His heart and mind fell into the deep abyss of hell.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s movements did not slow down as his attack dealt with the grand elder¡¯s protective true primeval. The iron spear pierced him, robbing him of his life.

    ¡°Suicidal fool!¡± Chen Fan spat indifferently. With a twist of his hand, he made his force explode, which made the Golden Ring Sect grand elder pop like a viscera-filled balloon.

    Everyone was dumbfounded.

    The battle ended too quickly!

    Chen Fan had killed a grand elder at the peak of the ninth level with a single attack. His opponent couldn¡¯t even fight back.

    Many people were stunned and stood rooted to their spots, feeling as if their souls had left them.

    They recalled what Chen Fan had said: ¡°A single attack is all I need to kill you.¡± The statement rang in their minds.

    After a while, the crowd finally returned to their senses, looking at Chen Fan with dumbfounded gazes.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s fierce reputation had spread throughout the Great Chu Empire, they were still deeply shaken when he killed a grand elder like he was quashing an ant.

    Even Qi Feifan, Lin Wushang, and the others also looked somewhat dazed. When they came back to their senses, their irises shrunk violently.

    Chen Fan had proved his strength by killing Young Master Xue Jia, but the top three geniuses thought they were stronger than Young Master Xue Jia. So, he might not necessarily be able to defeat them.

    Qi Feifan was ranked first on the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard and had reached the two-revolution Golden Core realm, so he felt that was true at least for him. He had felt sad when he didn¡¯t end up in the same group as Chen Fan, as he wanted to measure himself against Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan had killed a grand elder with a single attack. Although he could do the same, it wouldn¡¯t be as easy for him.

    Qi Feifan used to be skeptical about the public¡¯s opinion that Chen Fan was the strongest among the younger generation, thinking he was the one deserving of that title.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    In the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s viewing gallery, several of their grand elders¡¯ auras erupted, enraged by Chen Fan¡¯s actions.

    How humiliating to the Golden Ring Sect was this!

    Their gazes toward Chen Fan all carried shocking killing intent.

    Naturally, Chen Fan could feel it. He looked over and said indifferently, ¡°What, you feel indignant? Come at me if you do. I don¡¯t mind killing a few more of you.¡±

    His words nearly gave the Golden Ring Sect grand elders heart attacks, and their crowns began to emit smoke.

    It was as if they were no different from ants in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Humiliation!

    The greatest humiliation they suffered in their lives!

    Still, all they could do was feel anger and nothing.

    Even a peak-stage ninth-level Core Formation realm expert was killed in a single attack. Who would dare to ept his challenge without strength at the three or four-revolution Golden Core realm?

    Chen Fan curled his lips and descended.

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side had vented their resentment. Everyone¡¯s faces were full of smiles.

    Although Lei Wushuang died, Chen Fan killed the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s grand elder in return. It could be considered revenge.

    ¡°Beautifully done, Chen Fan!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s grand elders were full of smiles, not hiding the sound of theirughter at all. Since they had already fallen out with the Golden Ring Sect, there was no reason to care about their feelings.

    It wasn¡¯t only the grand elders. Even the sect leader Feng Baiyu¡¯s expression looked a lot better now.

    The storm came quickly and went away just as quickly.

    However, the invincible figure of Chen Fan killing the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s grand elder was now deeply engraved in the crowd¡¯s minds.

    The Grand Sect Conference continued. Battles raged intensely in the ten fighting arenas, brilliant and varied.

    Chen Fan also started getting called on stage to fight.

    However, no one could withstand a move from him.

    Regardless of whether they were eighth or ninth-level Core Formation realm, everyone without exception was defeated by Chen Fan in one move. He did not even use his iron spear. He just used the Northern Star Reaper Hand to crush all his opponents.

    Later on, some people directly surrendered to preserve their strength and energy to deal with their next opponents.

    As for Jin Yang, he also didn¡¯t dare to go on stage out of fear. When his name was called out, he directly admitted defeat below.

    What a joke!

    He was only in the early stage of the ninth level. If even a grand elder who was much stronger than him died at Chen Fan¡¯s hands, he would not live to get off the stage if he went up.

 Chapter 530 â€“ Nominees Finalized

    <h4>Chapter 530 ¨C Nominees Finalized</h4>

    ¡°Group ten, Chen Fan versus Dongfang Yu!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s name was called out again, so he walked up to the fighting arena.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Dongfang Yu did not surrender; instead, he chose to fight Chen Fan.

    Although he was only in the early stage of the ninth level, he had to face this challenge to break through the demonic barrier in his heart to progress on his path.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I will defeat you this time!¡±

    Dongfang Yu looked at Chen Fan, his eyes flickering with sharp light. A powerful de intent surged from him and rushed into the sky, tearing the white clouds apart.

    ¡°Defeat me?¡± Chen Fan smiled disdainfully and said, ¡°You couldn¡¯t even defeat me when your cultivation was higher than mine, let alone now. You¡¯re simply asking to be humiliated.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, let¡¯s fight!¡±

    The de intent emanating from Dongfang Yu grew even fiercer at Chen Fan¡¯s response. He drew his prized de and shed out. A resplendent de light flew toward Chen Fan like a lightning dragon.

    ¡°Petty tricks.¡± Chen Fan shook his head disdainfully and sent out a palm strike.

    The terrifying force shook the void, crashing forth like a towering wave. It shattered Dongfang Yu¡¯s de light, leaving nothing behind.

    ¡°Mysterious Ksetra of the nine heavens, transform into divine lightning. The brilliant might of heaven shall be guided by my de!¡±

    Dongfang Yu directly executed Thunder Wielding Divine de. The winds and clouds in the sky above the fighting arena immediately surged like a gathering storm. Crackling noises rang out chaotically as if the lord of heaven was enraged.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    A bolt of lightning as thick as a water bucket fell from the sky, which Dongfang Yu¡¯s de caught as he shed out violently. The attack stole the color from heaven and earth.

    The might of his Thunder-Wielding Divine de had grown with improvement in his cultivation and de intent.

    The thick de light was like a real lightning dragon as it flew over quickly, wanting to destroy the world.

    Not even a peak-stage ninth-level Core Formation realm expert would dare to receive this attack head-on. However, Chen Fan only shook his head lightly and reached out toward the oing resplendent de light and grabbed at the void.

    Northern Star Reaper Hand!

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand gripped the de light and exerted a bit of force. With a boom, the lightning dragon let out a wail before exploding.

    ¡°<i>Pfft</i>!¡± Dongfang Yu suddenly spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood. Hisplexion turned ghastly white, and his gaze became dull.

    ¡°Get off the stage!¡±

    Chen Fan did not feel any pity for him. He disappeared and appeared in front of Dongfang Yu. He struck Dongfang Yu with a light palm strike. The attack destroyed his protective true primeval and sent him flying off stage.

    To Chen Fan, defeating Dongfang Yu was only a matter of some moves, so his expression didn¡¯t change.

    If they had any deep grudges, Dongfang Yu wouldn¡¯t have survived the fight.

    The crowd wasn¡¯t surprised at all by Dongfang Yu¡¯s defeat. Their expressions remained calm

    After a few more rounds, Chen Fan¡¯s name was called again. His opponent was the eighth prince, Chu Pengfei.

    Chu Pengfei also did not admit defeat and went up on the stage to fight Chen Fan. He also specialized in spear arts. However, it waspletely useless in front of Chen Fan.

    Despite his exceptional talent, which would make him a holy disciple in any sect, his fate was sealed against Chen Fan. Victory was impossible.

    As usual, a single execution of Northern Star Reaper Hand destroyed all of Chu Pengfei¡¯s attacks and sent him flying off stage.

    ¡°Chen Fan is truly terrifying. He defeated all his opponents in all the matches with a single move. Not a single one could force him to make a second move.¡±

    ¡°That is true strength. Don¡¯t forget that he killed a peak-stage ninth-level Core Formation realm expert in the blink of an eye. It only makes sense that he defeated them in one move.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid only Qi Feifan, Lin Wushang, and Zhantai Liuli could make him use a second move.¡±

    ¡°The thirty nominees for this Grand Sect Conference are pretty much finalized. The top ten rankers of the Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, ninth-level Core Formation realm experts like eighth prince Chu Pengfei, and the Jade Firmament Pce¡¯s Yun Han. These people will likely get the spots.¡±

    ¡°They might be Divine Nascent realm powerhouses by the time they leave the ancient ruin.¡±

    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s that easy? Let alone the fact that one needs to face a tribtion when breaking through to the Divine Nascent realm, the ancient ruin is a ce that eats people alive. They are the top geniuses of our Great Chu Empire, butpared to the Great Li Imperial Court or the six great nations, they are first-rate at best, not top-tier."

    ¡°You¡¯re right. I heard that the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Prince Li Yao was born with exceptional talents. He¡¯s only twenty-three years old, but he¡¯s already an invincible expert in the five or six-revolution Golden Core realm. He¡¯s known as the number one genius of the younger generation in the Hong Domain, and a seed with the potential to advance into the Heavenly Star realm in the future.¡±

    ¡°The Great Li Sword Mountain¡¯s Gongsun Zhong is also a monster. It¡¯s said that his cultivation level is at the five-revolution Golden Core realm, and his mastery of the sword path has reached perfection, achieving man and sword unity."

    ¡°There are six extremely powerful contenders to watch out for,¡± said the spectator. "First, we have Ye Cangxuan from the ck Dragon Empire. Then there''s Yin Jiu of the Blue Mist Sect, which is the number one sect in the Blue Mist Empire."

    They continued, "From the Twilight Mountain Empire, there''s Si Kong of the Swift Lightning Saber Sect. The Canaan Empire has sent Xuanyuan Po from the Phantom Night Pce."

    "Oh, and don¡¯t forget about Wuyazi from the Falling Heaven Pavilion in the Heaven Bestowal Empire," they added. "Andstly, there''s Qiu Yuexin of the Vast Cold Pce, representing the Ancient Nacre Empire."

    The spectator lowered his voice, as if about to reveal a conspiracy, and said, ¡°They have all reached a terrifying cultivation level, somewhere between the four and five-revolution Golden Core realm.¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, our Great Chu Empire can only be considered as a lower-middle level force among the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain. Those are the six strongest nations in the Hong Domain aside from the Great Li Imperial Court. Their overall strength far surpasses ours."

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd murmured among themselves.

    Although Chen Fan and the other young geniuses were unparalleled in the Great Chu Empire, they would only be considered first-rate, perhaps even quasi-first-rate, in the Hong Domain.

    Even so, this couldn¡¯t be helped.

    The Great Chu Empire¡¯s overall strength was only among the lower-middle levels among the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain. They were far fromparable to the Great Li Imperial Court and the six top nations.

    Time passed quickly. At noon the next day, the Grand Sect Conference was nearing its end.

    Finally, with the conclusion of the final battle, the Grand Sect Conference¡¯spetition ended, finalizing the thirty nominees.

    Many contenders in the eighth-level Core Formation realm felt anxious inside, their feelings apparent on their faces.

    There were seven hundred and twenty of them. Just those in the ninth-level Core Formation realm alone would upy half the spots.

    The remaining half would be divided among those in the seventh and eighth levels. There were simply too many wolves and too little meat. The result of each battle would affect whether they could obtain a spot for themselves.

    After a short while, Reverend Myriad Virtue leaped forward and stood in mid-air. He announced, ¡°The Grand Sect Conference¡¯spetition has ended. The contenders¡¯ scores have also been tallied. I shall announce the list of the top thirty contenders in this assembly.

    ¡°Chen Fan, Qi Feifan, Lin Wushang, Zhantai Liuli, Xie Tianjue...¡±

    Reverend Myriad Virtue read out the thirty people¡¯s names in one go. Those whose names were called immediately wept from happiness, while those who weren¡¯t called became dispirited.

    ¡°Alright, the thirty of you whose names I¡¯ve called out,e up and receive your token for this Grand Sect Conference. With this token, you will make your way to the Hidden Dragon Ind in a month and enter it.

    ¡°Inside the Hidden Dragon Ind, you will have a hundred days to search for opportunities and raise your cultivation. You must exit after a hundred days.¡±

    Reverend Myriad Virtue gave some instructions and distributed the Grand Sect Conference tokens.

    The Grand Sect Conference had concluded.

 Chapter 531 - Heading Towards Hidden Dragon Island

    <h4>Chapter 531 - Heading Towards Hidden Dragon Ind</h4>

    The Grand Sect Conference, held once every ten years, ignited a frenzy across the Hong Domain.

    Countless young geniuses obtained the qualifications to enter the Hidden Dragon Ind and were about to embark on a journey that many of their seniors had experienced.

    This was an expedition to the battlefield where the geniuses of the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain would converge.

    The brave feared nothing, so sess belonged only to a few. The rest might only be stepping stones, forging the path to glory for those who prevail.

    Despite the great opportunities within the ruins of Hidden Dragon Ind, equal dangers lurked¡ªbe it demon beasts, remnants of ancient experts'' powers, or more likely, thepeting geniuses vying for those opportunities.

    Nevertheless, none were deterred. The path of martial arts had always been like rowing a boat against the current. One would be pushed back if they didn¡¯t advance.

    To gain strength and seize one''s destiny, one must pay the corresponding price for the rewards they seek.

    As the battles to select the nominees in the Grand Sect Conference came to an end, the geniuses who received a token also embarked on their journey to the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    The Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s emissary didn''t escort them directly but allowed them to find their own way¡ªa small test in itself.

    If they could not even reach the Hidden Dragon Ind alone, such ¡°geniuses¡± weren¡¯t worthy of obtaining the opportunities within.

    The Great Chu Empire¡¯s selection test ended with thirty final nominees. Almost every top-tier sect only had one person earning a spot.

    Thirty slots were far too few considering the number of top-tier sects in the Great Chu Empire.

    As expected, only Chen Fan from Group Ten secured a spot, achievingplete victory and rightfully earning his nomination.

    The Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s emissary, Reverend Myriad Virtue, had only given them a month to travel to the Hidden Dragon Ind. Exceeding this time limit would mean forfeiting their entry qualification.

    The location of the Hidden Dragon Ind was on the token itself. It wasn¡¯t near the Great Chu Empire at all. A one-month time limit was tight even for a Core Formation realm expert.

    If they were dyed on their way, they really might not be able to get to the Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s location in a month. Even minor dys on their journey could jeopardize their chances of arriving on time.

    Many quickly formed small groups of two or three to enhance safety in case of any trouble along the way.

    Chen Fan nned on being part of no such group. He felt it would be a better training process if he traveled alone.

    ¡°Sect Leader, Master, I won¡¯t be returning to the sect. In a couple of days, I will head to the Hidden Dragon Ind from the imperial city,¡± Chen Fan said to Feng Baiyu and the others.

    He would spend two days in the imperial city with his parents before making his way to the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    ¡°Alright, then. I¡¯m not worried that you¡¯ll encounter any trouble on the way, but you must be careful after entering the Hidden Dragon Ind ruins.

    ¡°You are hailed as the top genius here; on a broader scale within the Hong Domain, you''re merely first-rate. Many in the Great Li Imperial Court and the six great nations are even more powerful than you,¡± Feng Baiyu warned.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Of course, I know that. But I''ve always been one to keep to myself unless provoked. If they provoke me, I''ll make sure they regret it."

    Chen Fan did not fear the top experts of the Great Li Imperial Court and the six great nations.

    ¡°Alright, then.¡± Feng Baiyu did not say anything else and directly left with the others, making their way back to the sect.

    Three dayster:

    ¡°I¡¯m leaving, Father, and Mother,¡± Chen Fan said to Chen Zhengqing and the others.

    With only a month allotted, Chen Fan couldn''t dy any longer in the imperial city. Missing the window to enter Hidden Dragon Ind was not an option.

    ¡°Always be careful, Xiaofan,¡± Chen Zhengqing and the others only reminded him.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan executed the Wings of Rain Dragon without further ado, soaring into the sky like a roc. He shot through the clouds like lightning, heading straight toward the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    The Hong Domain was one of the hundred and eight domains in the eastern continent, located near the eastern sea. The Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s location was in the eastern sea.

    Shortly after leaving the imperial city, Chen Fan felt like someone was spying on him. He was quite familiar with this feeling.

    Chen Fan increased his speed, speeding across the sea of clouds, tearingyers of them apart like an arrow. The air boomed loudly as he crushed the space like a great sun, producing deafening noises.

    However, the peeping sensation grew increasingly stronger as Chen Fan flitted. It could not even be called spying anymore. The other party did not continue concealing themselves. Instead, they were chasing him.

    <i>Such speed!</i> Chen Fan was slightly shocked.

    When using the Wings of Rain Dragon, his speed wasparable to an invincible expert at the three or four-revolution Golden Core realm. This was also why he could afford to dy heading toward the Hidden Dragon Ind for a few days.

    Chen Fan was already moving at great speed, but the auras tracking him were equally swift and intensifying. The distance between them wasn¡¯t increasing, it was decreasing.

    The strength of his pursuers was extraordinary.

    Chen Fan suddenly sensed a terrifying aura that made his heart race. Instantly, he veered sharply to the left.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Space trembled as several figures appeared where Chen Fan had been moments ago, blocking his path.

    Where did so many expertse from? Chen Fan¡¯s heart trembled. In the Great Chu Empire, he had few enemies capable of such revenge.

    Yet, here they were, powerful and numerous, intercepting him. Chen Fan didn''t recognize their affiliations, but their strength was undeniable¡ªall formidable.

    While Chen Fan sped toward the left, his pursuers split into two groups, relentlessly chasing him with astonishing speed.

    ttering noises echoed as Chen Fan halted above a river, abruptly surrounded.

    The group of interceptors, d in long robes that concealed their features, stared back with indifference. They were unfamiliar faces to Chen Fan.

    Meanwhile, the other group were all dressed in blood robes, emanating disgusting auras. Chen Fan was familiar with this kind of aura. It was the aura of blood demons.

 Chapter 532 - Besieging Chen Fan

    <h4>Chapter 532 - Besieging Chen Fan</h4>

    Chen Fan stared coldly at the group cloaked in long robes and asked, ¡°Who are you people?¡±

    They were neither blood demons nor did they emanate an evil aura. Yet, they had allied with blood demons to pursue and encircle him¡ªan unsettling alliance.

    No one answered. Only the sound of flowing water broke the silence, the group maintaining an eerie quiet.

    Stepping on the air, Chen Fan rose to the sky again, climbing higher. His heart grew colder toward these pursuers.

    If it had been a group of ninth-level Core Formation realm experts, he wouldn''t have hesitated to strike. But this group was different¡ªpowerful.

    Among them were three and four-revolution Golden Core supreme experts,parable to the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯sw enforcement grand elder. There were also many one and two-revolution Golden Core experts.

    Although Chen Fan was strong,parable to a three-revolution Golden Core supreme expert, facing four or even five-revolution Golden Core opponents was daunting. Surrounded by so many, direct confrontation seemed impossible.

    The figures surrounding him matched his movements, climbing higher to maintain their encirclement.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan stopped climbing higher and took a plunge at an incredible speed.

    The group was stunned but quickly followed suit.

    Chen Fan was moving as he wished, while they had to follow his sudden movements. Also, their speeds varied, as not all of them were as fast as him.

    He suddenly changed directions again, darting ahead after a slight pause. He was trying to break free of their encirclement.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± shouted someone fiercely as they sent a punch in his direction.

    The terrifying force was like a star, crushing the void and making the space tremble violently. The force transformed into a blinding white light, hurtling forward.

    The fierce wind wed at Chen Fan¡¯s skin like knives. He sensed an overwhelming force approaching, akin to furious waves or a volcanic eruption.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan instantly channeled his qi. A terrifying power gathered in his fist, and he sent out a punch as well, which was as fast and powerful as lightning.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The punches collided. Chen Fan felt a tremendous impact, numbing his hand slightly.

    This opponent''s strength was terrifying¡ªdefinitely beyond the three-revolution Golden Core realm, likely reaching four-revolution.

    The force from Chen Fan¡¯s punch was overwhelming. He grunted, feeling like the bones in his fist were on the verge of shattering.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan shouted furiously. The Purgatory Divine Halberd materialized in his hand, exuding murderous qi that filled the air with dread.

    He seemed to have the strength of steel tendons and iron bones. An otherworldly space-time also appeared at his back. Chen Fan executed the Strength of Myriad Elephants.

    <i>C!</i>

    As he shed with the halberd, it was as if purgatory had descended into the world. Bolstered by the Strength of Myriad Elephants, it tore through space with a ripping sound.

    The terrifying halberd light instantly reced all the light in the world, shing toward its target.

    It was an iparably resplendent and unparalleled attack.

    When the four-revolution expert sensed the terrifying forceing from the halberd, his expression instantly darkened. A chilling light shot out from his eyes as his cultivation erupted fiercely. His aura shook heaven and earth, and golden halos appeared behind his head.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    His palm bursting with golden light, he unleashed a palm strike. It was iparably blinding and transformed into a huge golden palm.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The palm strikended on the halberd light. It sounded like two metallic weapons had shed, causing sparks to fly everywhere.

    Chen Fan flew back, and his arm wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd throbbed with soreness and numbness. Even the webs of his hands had been torn apart.

    The four-revolution Golden Core expert staggered back, his expression grim. He hadn''t anticipated Chen Fan''s astonishing power.

    He was a four-revolution Golden Core supreme expert, just a step away from attaining five revolutions. Yet, he was repelled by Chen Fan¡¯s attack. It was embarrassing.

    After all, Chen Fan was only at the ninth level.

    Retreating, Chen Fan fixed his gaze on the opponent. A gleam of determination shed in his eyes. ¡°You people are from the Golden Ring Sect?¡±

    The earlier attack reminded him of the technique used when Jin Yang killed Lei Wushuang. Their moves were very simr.

    If there were any forces with the ability to surround and besiege him in the Great Chu Empire, the Golden Ring Sect counted as one of them.

    Chen Fan had killed one of their grand elders publicly, ruthlessly pping their sect¡¯s face. It only made sense that the Golden Ring Sect was trying to make a move against him.

    ¡°How dare you, Golden Ring Sect! You actually joined forces with the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s demon bastards to deal with me!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    From the blood demons¡¯ side, a peak four-revolution Golden Core blood demon stepped forward. He appeared behind Chen Fan as if he had teleported and threw out a palm strike at his back, ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you¡¯re already at death¡¯s door, and you¡¯re still bbering here. Die, you little bastard!¡±

    The two forces have joined hands to besiege Chen Fan. With such a powerful line-up, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t escape even if he had real wings.

    Feeling the terrifying sense of crisis from behind, Chen Fan twisted around and shed out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd with momentum.

    A terrifying palm strike sted toward Chen Fan. This palm covered the sky, dyeing half of it bloody red and shrouding Chen Fan.

    <i>Pfft</i>! Chen Fan spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, instantly sent flying backward.

    How could his hasty attack withstand the blood demon expert¡¯s full-force palm strike?

    A terrifying force rushed inside him like a flood, churning his qi and blood. If not for his incredibly strong physique, he would have fallen apart from the shock.

    Chen Fan cast a sideways nce. Borrowing the power of the attack, the speed at which he flew back became even faster. He arrived in front of a one-revolution Golden Core blood demon in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Die!¡± With a furious shout, Chen Fan wielded the halberd with both hands, instantly erupting with terrifying strength to annihte the sun, moon, and stars.

    Facing the encirclement of the Blood Demon Cave and Golden Ring Sect¡¯s experts, only death awaited Chen Fan if he failed to escape.

    A halberd light shed, and a ssh of fresh blood bloomed in the air.

    The halberd prated the one-revolution Golden Core blood demon before he could even react.

    Everyone else¡¯s hearts trembled.

    Chen Fan was indeed terrifyingly powerful. It was no wonder they needed so many people to intercept him. They would have failed had they only sent a few experts.

    The battle to besiege Chen Fan has just begun, and the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s side had already lost an expert.

 Chapter 533 - Breaking Out of Encirclement

    <h4>Chapter 533 - Breaking Out of Encirclement</h4>

    ¡°Sinful bastard!¡± A furious shout echoed as a streak of bloody divine light darted toward Chen Fan at lightning speed.

    The attacker was a peak four-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert, who was furious. Despite being surrounded by a formidable lineup, Chen Fan had managed to cut down one of their experts.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An iparably berserk power surged forward, apanied by rumbling and crackling sounds.

    Chen Fan quickly retaliated with a backhanded sh of his halberd. The terrifying impact made him feel like his appendages were about to fall off. His qi and blood surged violently, nearly making him vomit his organs, and he was knocked back hard.

    A cold light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He had created an opening in the encirclement by quickly killing the one-revolution Golden Core blood demon expert. Using the rebounding force from the collision with the peak four-revolution Golden Core expert, Chen Fan flew out like aet.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± A cold snort rang out. That blood demon expert stepped forth, staring icily at Chen Fan, and said, ¡°You will die today. You won¡¯t escape even if you grew wings!¡±

    The group immediately rushed forth like the wind, chasing after Chen Fan. Chen Fan fled ahead, his eyes icy and devoid of emotion.

    His true primeval surged fiercely like the Yangtze River, rapidly coursing through him.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere!¡± shouted someone. Two four-revolution Golden Core experts in the group were lightning fast, and he couldn¡¯t shake them off his tail at all. Soon, they caught up to him. Two terrifying palm attacks, one from the left and one from the right, darted toward him from the back.

    Chen Fan abruptly descended, narrowly avoiding the palm forces.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Several noises echoed as Chen Fan crashed through a mountain peak, disappearing into its depths. His pursuers, in the air, paused for a moment before swiftly descending toward the same peak.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Undaunted, the two four-revolution Golden Core experts followed Chen Fan, into the mountain where he had vanished. With their immense strength, they were confident Chen Fan couldn''t outwit them.

    In front of absolute strength, all methods were useless.

    Today would be the day Chen Fan died!

    The others flickered, surrounding the mountain peak.

    They wouldn¡¯t be of any use even if they chased in there.

    Chen Fan hadbat strengthparable to a three-revolution Golden Core expert despite being only at the ninth level. They couldn¡¯t provide much help even if they entered. Instead, they would be in danger of dying.

    They waited, certain that when Chen Fan emerged, they could help prevent his escape. With two four-revolution Golden Core realm experts hunting him, they believed his fate was sealed.

    The two four-revolution Golden Core experts¡¯ actions had been swift, leaving no room for deliberation. They had relied solely on instincts.

    The opening in the mountain was pitch-ck from top to bottom.

    The experts pursued Chen Fan closely, their expressions cold. One shouted, ¡°Stop.¡±

    No one answered their demand.

    They only saw a phantom-like figure descending deeper into the mountain, where the rock walls began to smolder. Chen Fan would soon reach the bottom of the mountain.

    ¡°You can''t escape our grasp, no matter how hard you try!¡± dered the two experts as they unleashed palm strikes, shaking thend and mountain.

    The palm strikesbined into a terrifying force, which aimed to obliterate Chen Fan¡¯s existence upon impact.

    ¡°Is that right?¡± Chen Fan suddenly turned. Ancient, gigantic elephants seemed to have descended into the darkness, their immense strength echoing with thunderous roars. They crashed through space towards the two experts.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    A tremendous explosion erupted, sending shockwaves through the narrow tunnels. The mountain shook violently and cracked open, causing boulders to roll down.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The tunnels copsed, sealing off the path between Chen Fan and his pursuers. The two experts'' expressions shifted abruptly.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Another deafening boom reverberated through the mountain as if struck by a falling star or meteorite. Cracks spiderwebbed across the rock.

    With a burst of strength, Chen Fan sted open the mountain and shot out.

    The group waiting outside was shocked, and their expressions quickly changed. Someone roared furiously, ¡°He¡¯se out! Attack together and kill him!¡±

    The crowd, who had prepared themselves, quickly unleashed their cultivation andunched terrifying attacks towards Chen Fan.

    Not even a four-revolution Golden Core expert would dare to receive thisbined attack head-on, let alone an already injured Chen Fan.

    The attacks swept over and descended upon him. Suddenly, Chen Fan shot up to the skies.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two four-revolution Golden Core experts simultaneously emerged from the mountain, only to be met with a barrage of terrifying attacks.

    Their expressions darkened instantly as they roared furiously, hastily channeling their qi to fend off the onught. Despite their efforts, they were sted back into the mountain.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Blood Demon Cave, Golden Ring Sect, remember this day. Your reckoning wille!¡±

    Chen Fan had already risen into the sky. The Wings of Rain Dragon pped furiously, forming hurricanes. He turned into a streak of light and soared into the distance in a frenzy.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two four-revolution Golden Core experts rushed out from the mountain once more, covered in dirt, their expressions ugly.

    Chen Fan moved with lightning speed. The dy was enough for him to put five thousand kilometers between him and his pursuers.

    ¡°Damn it, what are you doing spacing out? Chase after him!¡±

    The two were furious and had thoughts of killing everyone in the group to vent their anger.

    They had been unexpectedly met with friendly fire when they came out of the mountain and had to hastily resist. Still, they were thrown back into the mountain, causing a minor dy.

    The consequences would be dire if they let Chen Fan escape!

    Moreover, thebined forces besieging Chen Fan included two four-revolution Golden Core supremes, approximately half a dozen experts at the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm, and about ten ninth-level Core Formation experts.

    Such a line-up could even deal with a five-revolution Golden Core expert, yet they failed to bring down Chen Fan. There was no way for them to return and report this matter.

    The group sped across the sky, breaking through the void, chasing as if their lives depended on it.

    However, Chen Fan was simply too fast. Despite the two four-revolution Golden Core experts pulling ahead of the group, they couldn¡¯t catch up to Chen Fan in the end.

    ¡°Ah, damn it! Damn it!¡±

    The two were truly infuriated, feeling like their lungs were about to explode.

    Chen Fan escaped!

 Chapter 534 - Arriving at the Hidden Dragon Island

    <h4>Chapter 534 - Arriving at the Hidden Dragon Ind</h4>

    ¡°Golden Ring Sect...¡± Chen Fan sped across the sky at lightning speed. His eyes were icy cold, emanating killing intent.

    He never expected the Golden Ring Sect to be so bold as to join forces with the Blood Demon Cave to besiege him.

    ¡°Just you wait. When I return from Hidden Dragon Ind, the Golden Ring Sect will be annihted!¡±

    Iparably eerie cold killing intent surged in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    This close call with death from thebined forces'' encirclement made his escape feel like a stroke of fortune.

    However, he would keep this score in mind for now. When he was strong enough, this score would be settled.

    ......

    On his way to the Hidden Dragon Ind, he came across many others also heading toward the eastern sea.

    The location where geniuses from across the world wouldpete and train this time was a top-tier sect from three thousand years ago. Many hoped to fish in troubled waters, seeking to infiltrate the event.

    Chen Fan crossed several empires, including the ck Dragon Empire, one of the six great nations. The ck Dragon Empire''s overall strength ranked within the top three among these nations.

    The ck Dragon Empire¡¯s royal family was the nation¡¯s strongest force. Although they did not have any Heavenly Star realm experts, they had a high-level Divine Nascent realm powerhouse in their ranks.

    Such an expert could dominate the skies of the Great Chu Empire single-handedly, forcing everyone else to submit.

    To put it into perspective, the strongest force in the Great Chu Empire was the Cloud Sky Sect with three Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. Their strongest member was their sect leader, recognized as the most powerful in the entire Great Chu Empire. Yet, he was only a third-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    The disparity between a low-level and high-level Divine Nascent realm was immense.

    Chen Fan also learned that the ck Dragon Empire''s strongest young genius, Prince Ye Cangxuan, was a member of the royal family. Rumors had it that he had reached the five-revolution Golden Core realm before the age of thirty.

    A five-revolution Golden Core expert could rival thew enforcement grand elder in the Spring Autumn Sect, second only to their two Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. Currently, Chen Fan was far from being his match.

    This underscored the vast gap between the Great Chu Empire and the ck Dragon Empire.

    If the ck Dragon Empire¡¯s prince was already this powerful, then how strong would Prince Li Yao of the Great Li Imperial Court¡ªthe supreme ruler of the Hong Domain¡ªbe?

    His cultivation and strength surely surpassed Ye Cangxuan''s.

    Twenty days went by in a sh.

    During this period, Chen Fan encountered some fools who tried to rob his nomination token, wanting to impersonate him and go to the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Without exception, Chen Fan killed them all.

    Such incidents weremon. After all, not every nation¡¯s geniuses were as strong as those from the Great Li Imperial Court or the six great nations.

    The geniuses nominated by some lower-ranked nations were only at the sixth level. For them, the nomination tokens were like hot potatoes, attracting unwanted attention. It was inevitable that the weak would be robbed or even killed en route to Hidden Dragon Ind.

    These urrences were typical in all the past Grand Sect Conferences. Many of the weaker nations¡¯ geniuses had their tokens and lives stolen on the way to the ruins. This was why many chose to travel in groups.

    Finally, Chen Fan arrived at the shores of the eastern sea. He found a wooden boat and drove it with his true primeval, speeding along.

    Although flying would be faster, the seas within fifty thousand kilometers of the Hidden Dragon Ind were a no-fly zone for those below the Divine Nascent realm.

    Despite this, his pace wasn''t slow. Chen Fan wasn''t aiming to be the first tond, so he wasn''t in a hurry.

    As Chen Fan sailed, he asionally saw groups rushing to the Hidden Dragon Ind. Some traveled in threes and fives, others alone, and some inrge groups of over a dozen people.

    The morning sunlight reflected off the sea, creating a dazzling and beautiful sight.

    The journey continued for three days, but Chen Fan did not feel tired at all. At his cultivation level, rest was immaterial.

    In the distance, Chen Fan saw someone rapidly approaching. Upon looking carefully, he saw a young Daoist dressed in green, appearing to be about twenty-five or twenty-six years old.

    He wore a Daoist robe and was running on the water, his movements dashing and carefree. If he were a bit older, he would have truly resembled the immortals of legend.

    Chen Fan was a little surprised to see a Daoist here.

    In a world where martial arts were revered, most Daoists focused on cultivating their temperament. However, Daoism had always been mysterious, with a longsting and enigmatic legacy that should not be underestimated.

    This young Daoist, for example, gave Chen Fan a very dangerous feeling. His cultivation level was at least in the four-revolution Golden Core realm.

    This young Daoist¡¯s movement arts were extremely outstanding. He soon arrived at Chen Fan¡¯s side.

    However, this young Daoist did not stay with Chen Fan. He simply nodded in greeting as he passed by, disying no arrogance.

    Watching the Daoist pull further ahead, Chen Fan raised an eyebrow and muttered to himself, ¡°This Daoist is so strong. I couldn''t see through him at all. He is a mysterious figure. The school of Daoism is indeed deeply unfathomable.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression became somewhat grave.

    As he made his way to the Hidden Dragon Ind, he got a rough understanding of the situation of the younger generation in the Hong Domain.

    Whenpared to the entire Hong domain, the thirty geniuses of the Great Chu Empire were, as Feng Baiyu had said, first-rate or quasi-first-rate.

    The Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Prince Li Yao, the younger generation of the six great nations, the Great Li Sword Mountain¡¯s Gongsun Zhong, and the others were all geniuses even among geniuses.

    They had already reached the three or four-revolution Golden Core realm, perhaps even higher, at such a young age. Compared to the younger generation of the Great Chu Empire, they were far too powerful.

    Not only that, there were many of them, not just one or two.

    Take that young Daoist he saw earlier, for example. He was an exceptional talent, undoubtedly on par with the top geniuses of the six great nations. Among the numerous geniuses heading to the Hidden Dragon Ind, he was probably extremely outstanding.

    Moreover, who knows what other hidden geniuses had yet to make themselves known to the world?

    Fortunately, this expedition to the Hidden Dragon Ind wasn''t a brutalpetition where only one victor could emerge. If it were, despite the allure of the ind''s opportunities, few would dare to participate.

    Most conflicts arose only when fighting over treasures and were not forced urrences.

    Aside from the invincible experts who could dominate their peers, those who exercised caution and avoided unnecessary conflicts could also survive. Many shared this mindset.

    The Grand Sect Conference could attract so many people to participate because fortuitous encounters and treasures were aplenty in the ruins. Simply making a round could yield tremendous benefits.

    It wasn¡¯t that there weren¡¯t any battle maniacs who wanted to fight all their peers, but there were very few of them.

    Most people were more inclined toward looking for treasures and fortuitous encounters.

    In the blink of an eye, another two days passed, and Chen Fan could finally see the Hidden Dragon Ind.

 Chapter 535 - Ghost Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 535 - Ghost Mountain</h4>

    Dark clouds loomed ominously over the vast sky, pressing down as if just an arm''s length away, creeping steadily closer.

    Fierce winds whistled, sweeping up countless towering waves into the air. Yet amidst the boundless sea, they amounted to mere sshes.

    In the distance, a vast expanse of dark clouds covered arge area of the sea. While it remained sunny where Chen Fan sailed, far out at sea, dense clouds were spreading.

    Stretching as far as his eyes could see, a massive lone ind loomed amidst the winds and waves.

    The instant Chen Fan caught sight of this ind, he knew it was the Hidden Dragon Ind, his destination.

    Flying was forbidden under those dark clouds. Unless one was a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, any creature daring to fly here courted death.

    Lightning dragons roiled within the clouds, ready to smite any airborne intruders. This was the legacy of a sect that once ruled the Hong Domain.

    Even though they had long since disappeared, bing history, their formidable restrictions endured.

    Chen Fan drove the wooden boat, speeding forth and oveing all obstacles on the way. Half a dayter, the Hidden Dragon Ind was finally close at hand.

    The pitch-ckyer of clouds hung low, with lightning dragons tumbling within, emanating an intense sense of oppression.

    Chen Fan found his heart pounding despite his powerful physique.

    An enormous ind that spanned hundreds of kilometers wide floated on the vast sea. Countless towering waves crashed onto its shores but failed to shake it in the slightest.

    Chen Fan held his nomination token in hand as he closed in on the ind. A trace of energy immediately erupted. It enveloped and pulled him flying toward the Hidden Dragon Ind, bumping into ayer of barrier.

    With a plop sound, Chen Fan felt his head spinning momentarily. Next, the scenery in front of his eyes changed drastically.

    Readtest chapters at  Only.

    He found himself standing on a hillside. As he looked around, he realized this was more of a continent than an ind.

    A vast, endless forest entered his vision. The emerald green scenery was full of vitality. He could also asionally hear the roars of beasts.

    At the end of the vast forest was a tall mountain that pierced through the clouds and was shrouded in fog, vaguely peeking through. A deste auranded on him from just a nce at it.

    Meanwhile, inside the forest, Chen Fan could faintly see some dpidated buildings.

    One could imagine how prosperous the Hidden Dragon Ind was in the past. As a top-tier power of the Hong Domain, itmanded an ind territory that spanned hundreds of thousands of kilometers. How prosperous and magnificent was that?

    Even so, all of that had faded into obscurity.

    The blood cmity affected the entire Tianwu Continent. The Hidden Dragon Ind of the past was also reduced to ruins. Covered by the green forest, all one could see were vague images of its wreckage.

    He could also see herbs that required special nurturing in the outside world everywhere, like ginseng, white fungus, earth fire grass, moon essence lotus, and many more. They were all aged herbs and full of potency.

    Natural treasures could indeed be found everywhere on the Hidden Dragon Ind. It was and of countless opportunities.

    Chen Fan quickly got moving and flew down the hill, sweeping up the natural treasures.

    Although these herbs were centuries old, their grade was too low to be of use to Chen Fan. However, they represented a significant fortune for the Chen n. So, he gathered everything of value he encountered.

    The day passed very quickly, and night fell.

    <i>Roar</i>!

    <i>Ah</i>!

    <i>Roar</i>!

    Terrifying roars of unknown beasts echoed from the cloud-piercing mountain at the ind''s center. Everyone who heard the roars felt a deep fear as if a disaster was about to strike or an evil spirit would emerge from the mountain.

    The noise was so terrifying that even Chen Fan shivered despite his calm demeanor.

    What kind of madness had he not seen before? Demonic beasts? They were like pets to him, so he had long since gotten used to their roars. None could shake his psyche a bit.

    Yet, the roars echoing from the mountain located tens of thousands of kilometers away had made him shudder. These weren''t just the roars of living creatures. They were dry and hoarse, like cracked voices, or as sharp as sonic waves. The variety of noises all gave him an eerie feeling as if they didn''t arise from living creatures.

    If seeing the mountain during the day made Chen Fan feel deste and cold, then in thetter half of the night, it turned into a ghastly atmosphere. Countless wisps of enormous death qi rose to the sky as if they were going to pierce through the clouds.

    The cloud-piercing mountain seemed to have transformed into a ghost mountain. Just looking at it gave one the illusion of sinking into Avici Hell, sending chills down their spine.

    Moreover, the endless roars of the various demonic beasts grew strangely quiet after dark. Only the terrifying noises from the ghost mountain echoed through the heavens and earth.

    ¡°How bizarre!¡±

    Chen Fan stood on the branch of a tall tree and looked at the ghost mountain.

    The thick deathly qi and eerie coldness felt like a demon,ughing silently at everyone on the ind.

    ¡°Such dense deathly qi and vengeful qi. It¡¯s even thicker than the qi found at the Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. Who knows how many people died to form such a thick, deathly qi, like a ghost city!

    ¡°I fear there are great evil spirits on that mountain, not just one or two. Otherwise, it wouldn¡¯t give off such a chilling sensation. It would be a disaster if a Divine Nascent realm ferocious creature came out,¡± Chen Fan muttered to himself, narrowing his eyes.

    The trial at the Hidden Dragon Ind wouldst for a hundred days.

    The Hidden Dragon Ind was open, and people had barged into an ind that had been quiet for three thousand years. Who knew if the slumbering souls would be disturbed and bring forth an unpredictable disaster?

    Chen Fan warned himself to be extremely cautious.

    The terrifying roars went on until dawn. The starry light gradually faded, and the terrifying roars from the ghost mountain also gradually calmed down.

    The Yin qi lingered for another three-quarters of an hour before dissipating into nothingness.

    As the roars on the ghost mountain disappeared, the roars of the various demonic beasts in the forest gradually heated up, exactly like when Chen Fan had just entered the ind.

    Compared to the terrifying roars that came from the ghost mountainst night, the berserk roars from the demonic beasts felt oddly safe; they sounded much more pleasant to the ears.

    After a night¡¯s rest, Chen Fan was full of vigor. Brilliant light shone in his eyes.

    The trial at the Hidden Dragon Ind had already begun. He needed to do his best to search for opportunities in these hundred days to raise his cultivation and strengthen himself.

    Of the thirty-six nations, the Great Li Imperial Court was given a hundred spots, the six great nations were given fifty spots each, while the rest of the twenty-nine nations each had thirty spots. At least a thousand people had stepped foot on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    If those thousand people had been ordinary people, that number would have seemed too little, but for powerful martial artists, that was far from the case.

 Chapter 536 - Earth Fire Heaven Lotus

    <h4>Chapter 536 - Earth Fire Heaven Lotus</h4>

    The magnificent mountains stretched vast and boundless.

    The ghost mountain Chen Fan had seen upon his arrival turned out to be just one of the cloud-piercing peaks in a range that spanned from east to west. The mountains rose and fell endlessly, seemingly without end.

    Despite being called a sea ind, Hidden Dragon Ind''s size far exceeded normal imagination.

    Chen Fan sped through the forest. Waves of terrifying loud booms and vibrations rang out from afar.

    Mountain Lugging Bears came running from afar, knocking over ancient trees that had stood for thousands of years. The bears were over fifty feet tall and were covered in brown fur from head to toe.

    Strange, stone-like scales protruded from their backs, giving them an indestructible appearance¡ªhence their name, Mountain Lugging Bears.

    Ferociously strong, nearly every bear possessed high-level Core Formation realm strength. Even supreme experts of the one or two-revolution Golden Core realm would have to hide when facing so many of them.

    Yet, Chen Fan was currently chasing them like he was chasing out homeless dogs.

    ¡°Hey!¡± An explosive voice rang out. All of a sudden, a resplendent saber light fell from the sky, shing down.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Blood spattered from several Mountain Lugging Bears as they were split into halves.

    Updat??d fr??m freewebn¦Òvel.c?m.

    Chen Fan stopped abruptly as someone came speeding over from afar. The neer was a man who seemed about thirty years old.

    He had a rugged appearance and a well-built physique, emanating the aura of someone in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    ¡°You¡¯re really impressive, brother, chasing down these Mountain Lugging Bears with just ninth-level cultivation.¡± That man¡¯sughter rang out from afar, his voice rumbling several kilometers. Chen Fan estimated the man¡¯s cultivation to be in the three-revolution Golden Core realm.

    ¡°You¡¯re even more amazing, brother, killing several Mountain Lugging Bears from five kilometers away with a single sh. I can¡¯t bepared to that strength,¡± Chen Fan said, cupping his fist, his expression calm and indifferent.

    <i>Tap, tap.</i>

    The mannded on the ground, looked at Chen Fan, and asked with a smile, ¡°I wonder what your name is, brother? I¡¯m Xiao Zhen from the Jade Sky Empire.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, Great Chu Empire," came the short reply.

    Xiao Zhen nodded and said, ¡°Brother Chen Fan, it¡¯s fate that we meet. I discovered a treasure ground recently. It¡¯s an underground magma pool, with an Earth Fire Heaven Lotus growing within. You know its effects¡ªtempering our golden core. Would you be interested in joining me?"

    ¡°Earth Fire Heaven Lotus...¡± A light sparkled in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He was well aware of the lotus'' effects. Although it could not raise a martial artist¡¯s cultivation, it had marvelous effects on Core Formation realm martial artists by tempering their golden core.

    Consuming the seeds of an Earth Fire Heaven Lotus would refine away the impurities in one¡¯s golden core, making it even purer and their true primeval even fuller. It would be extremely beneficial for advancing to the Divine Nascent realm.

    It was extremely difficult for a martial artist to raise their cultivation step by step, so consuming auxiliary treasures like elixirs and herbs was inevitable.

    However, even medicinal aids carried traces of poison. While they aided cultivation, they also nted hidden troubles along the martial arts path.

    Take Chen Fan, for example. He had gone from being a Qi Grandmaster to the ninth level of the Core Formation realm in just three years. While the Heaven Seizing Art did most of the heavy lifting, he also had to use all kinds of elixirs and herbs.

    He had refinedrge amounts of demon cores and corpse cores. Although the Heaven Seizing Furnace refined the impurities, his cultivation and strength didn''t progress step by step, leaving hidden damage.

    Aware of this issue, Chen Fan regrly refined his true primeval to solidify his foundation.

    However, there would always be something left out. Although insignificant for now, the further his cultivation progressed, it could be the straw that broke the camel¡¯s back.

    The Earth Fire Heaven Lotus could temper his golden core, further solidify his foundation, and make his golden core even purer.

    Chen Fan pondered for a little and asked, ¡°Brother Xiao Zhen, you''re likely in the three-revolution Golden Core realm. Why aren¡¯t you doing it yourself? All the benefits would then be yours.¡±

    Xiao Zhen smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Haa... I would have if I could do it alone.

    ¡°Unfortunately, a Fire-Scaled Beast guards the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus. It''s a demonic creature in the four-revolution Golden Core realm. I stand no chance against it alone.

    ¡°Initially, I didn¡¯t think much of you because of your cultivation, Brother Chen Fan. However, when I saw you effortlessly deal with arge group of Mountain Lugging Bears, I realized that you were no ordinary cultivator. That''s why I sought your help.

    ¡°Actually, I arrived early and joined a group alliance, the Flying Eagle Alliance, but I¡¯m too far from its base. There''s a risk someone else might seize it while I''m on my way back."

    ¡°Four-revolution Golden Core Fire-Scaled Beast...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze narrowed. It was no wonder Xiao Zhen invited him for this operation. It turned out that he was facing difficulties.

    Chen Fan pondered for a while, then agreed, ¡°Alright then. I''ll apany you, under the condition that we split the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus seeds equally once we obtain them."

    Facing a four-revolution Golden Core Fire-Scaled Beast alone was impractical for either Chen Fan or Xiao Zhen. Their best chance was teamwork.

    ¡°Haha, fine. With Brother Chen Fan¡¯s help, obtaining that Earth Fire Heaven Lotus is pretty much guaranteed.¡± Xiao Zhenughed.

    Xiao Zhen had intended to find others to join him, but the enormous size of Hidden Dragon Ind made chance encounters rare.

    When Xiao Zhen saw Chen Fan, a ninth-level Core Formation realm cultivator, chasing down a group of Mountain Lugging Bears that even had a one-revolution Golden Core among them, he realized Chen Fan''s strength was extraordinary. He then showed himself and invited Chen Fan to this operation.

    ¡°Alright, there¡¯s no time to lose, Brother Chen Fan. Let¡¯s go right away,¡± Xiao Zhen said and immediately kicked off the ground and flew into the sky.

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure also blurred, following closely behind him.

    Both of them were extremely fast. They tore through the air, moving a thousand meters in the blink of an eye. About half an hourter, the two arrived at a hillside.

    The hill wasn''t particrly tall, only about a dozen meters high. At its summit was arge hole, dark and imprable to the naked eye, with waves of scorching hot air emanating from it.

    ¡°We¡¯re here. The underground magma pool is right below. I stumbled upon it by chance and decided to explore it out of curiosity. That¡¯s when I saw that Earth Fire Heaven Lotus, but a Fire-Scaled Beast was guarding it, so I had no way to get my hands on it,¡± Xiao Zhen exined.

    Chen Fan nodded. A fierce light shed in his eyes.

    His spirit strength was great. Although the high-temperature twisted space, he could still sense a powerful aura hiding within.

    This aura gave him a strong sense of danger. It probably belonged to that Fire-Scaled Beast.

 Chapter 537 - Fire-Scaled Beast

    <h4>Chapter 537 - Fire-Scaled Beast</h4>

    <i>Blub, blub.</i>

    A heat wave hit Chen Fan as soon as he entered the cave. He could even hear the magma inside bubbling and churning.

    He suspected that an underground volcano might be in the process of forming. After all, it takes tens of thousands of years for a volcano to develop fully.

    Judging by the current state of things, it appeared that it would be a long time before it fully developed into a volcano.

    As they ventured deeper, the ground temperature rose steadily. They had to channel their true primeval to protect their feet from being burned.

    The light also grew dimmer as they went further in. However, being powerful martial artists, they could see in the dark as if it were daytime by channeling their true primeval energy to their eyes.

    They could see everything ahead clearly. As they neared the magma pool, a red glow began to light up the cave.

    Continuing further, they soon came upon a huge pool of magma, which was violently churning.

    Chen Fan saw a red lotus floating in the middle of the magma pool, almost blending in with its surroundings and nearly imperceptible.

    With his sharp vision, Chen Fan immediately recognized the herb. It was unmistakably an Earth Fire Heaven Lotus, with at least ten seeds in its pod.

    ¡°It¡¯s indeed an Earth Fire Heaven Lotus!¡±

    From the looks of it, the lotus had grown for over a thousand years using the energy in the magma pool. Its seeds¡¯ medicinal potency was bound to be scarily high. In the outside world, it would be considered a rare, supreme treasure.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The magma pool suddenly churned violently, and the sound of magma moving rang out. Next, a big, savage-looking head peeked out from the magma.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± A deafening roar filled the cave, causing the air to explode with a powerful current.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    In a sh, an enormous Fire-Scaled Beast flew out from the magma pool. The molten magma, which could melt a person, couldn¡¯t harm the beast at all.

    As the Fire-Scaled Beast breathed, sparks flew, and waves of heat carrying a burnt smell filled the air.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± roared the beast fiercely at Xiao Zhen, recognizing him. Seeing Xiao Zhen returning with a helper, the beast''srge eyes burned with fury.

    Xiao Zhen''s expression grew serious as he sent a voice transmission to Chen Fan, ¡°Be careful, Brother Chen Fan. This beast is not an easy opponent. We¡¯ll need to join forces to deal with it.¡±

    Facing a Fire-Scaled Beast was no joke. Had it just been a three-revolution Golden Core level Fire-Scaled Beast, instead of a four-revolution one, he wouldn¡¯t have been afraid.

    The difference in strength between each level in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm was immense, like the difference between heaven and earth.

    Even with Chen Fan''s help, Xiao Zhen¡¯s heart pounded with anxiety.

    ¡°No problem,¡± Chen Fan replied, licking his lips.

    This Fire-Scaled Beast was indeed very powerful, but the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus was right in front of his eyes. No matter what, he had to get his hands on it.

    ¡°Do it!¡± Xiao Zhen shouted all of a sudden. His cultivation instantly erupted which produced a fierce gale as he shot forth. An ancient and simple-looking ck saber appeared in his hand, and he shed at the Fire-Scaled Beast.

    The terrifying saber light instantly illuminated the space. It shed toward the Fire-Scaled Beast¡¯s head with a force that could cleave mountains and seas.

    <i>ng!</i>

    However, Xiao Zhen¡¯s attack only produced a clunk when it fell on the Fire-Scaled Beast¡¯s head, sending sparks flying. This turn of events was a testament to the toughness of the beast¡¯s skin.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The Fire-Scaled Beast was thoroughly enraged by this.

    Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen had barged into its territory to snatch its Earth Fire Heaven Lotus. And before it could attack, one of the humans had dared to hit its head. How infuriating!

    The Fire-Scaled Beast reacted instantly. It raised its terrifying front paw and swiped at Xiao Zhen.

    The sharp ws gleamed with a chilling, metallic light, tearing through the air. Cold sweat ran down their backs.

    Under this w, even a titanium alloy te would immediately crack.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan also made his move at this instant. Wielding the iron spear in hand, he leaped high into the air and stabbed out violently. The terrifying spear light could simply shatter stars.

    ¡°Roar!¡± The Fire-Scaled Beast directly opened its mouth wide and bit at him. With a crushing sound, it shattered Chen Fan¡¯s spear light.

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡± A cold light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. His figure blurred as heunched another attack, attacking the beast violently.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A crisp ng rang out as the enormous Fire-Scaled Beast was sent flying away. Yet, Chen Fan was speechless. The beast¡¯s scales were terrifyingly tough.

    Demonic beasts had a natural advantage over humans, with many possessing incredibly tough bodies. But finding one as resilient as this Fire-Scaled Beast was rare.

    Although hisst attack had sent the beast flying, it failed to injure it. All it did was shatter a few of its scales.

    ¡°Impressive, Brother Chen Fan. You actually sent this beast flying. How eye-opening,¡± Xiao Zhen remarked, surprised.

    Despite being a three-revolution expert, he hadn¡¯t been able to do that. Yet, Chen Fan, at the ninth-level Core Formation realm, had managed it. It was unbelievable.

    No wonder he could chase down arge group of Mountain Lugging Bears. He truly found the right helper for this job.

    ¡°I just got lucky.¡± Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Its scales are just too much. Our attacks aren¡¯t even enough to scratch its itch.¡±

    Xiao Zhen¡¯s eyes flickered, and he said, ¡°I¡¯ll hold it down. You look for a chance to seize the seeds. We¡¯ll leave immediately after getting them.¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    It would be very difficult for them to kill the Fire-Scaled Beast, perhaps even impossible. So making a mad dash for it afterpleting their main objective was their only choice.

    The humans and the beast were immediately entangled in a fierce battle in the underground cave, unleashing their full strength.

    On several asions, Chen Fan tried to snatch the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus, but the Fire-Scaled Beast¡¯s awareness was also strong. It always kept the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus behind it.

    <i>Boom, boom, rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen were almost pushing themselves to the limit. Qi waves rolled and churned in the entire underground space like a tsunami. Their qi surged in the air like a long river.

 Chapter 538 - Obtaining the Lotus

    <h4>Chapter 538 - Obtaining the Lotus</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Rumbling noises rang out repeatedly in the underground cave.

    Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen attacked the Fire-Scaled Beast frenziedly. Terrifying energies surged and swept in space like the waves of the Yangtze River, raising monstrous waves.

    However, the Fire-Scaled Beast remained an adversary as terrifying as ever. All their attacks together managed to do was shake it a bit.

    ¡°Die, you sinful beast!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed with a vicious light. He put away the iron spear and brought out the Purgatory Divine Halberd, a Grade-5 treasure much more powerful than the spear. As he swung his arm, a deathly halberd light shed across space.

    The Fire-Scaled Beast cried miserably, as the attack had crushed its scales.

    Chen Fan hadnded his first injury on the beast. Its magma-like fresh blood flowed out and spilled onto the ground, burning small holes into it.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The Fire-Scaled Beast roared furiously, its ferocious gaze fixed on Chen Fan. Its terrifying w ripped through space, creating an inescapable of destruction around him.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The air was torn apart. A terrifying, invisible force descended, making Chen Fan¡¯s hair stand on end. He felt a grave sense of danger.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously at the critical moment.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Explosions erupted around him, making his robes flutter wildly. In an instant, his aura surged.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Swinging the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he cut through space.

    It was as if a heavenly god had wielded divine judgment in hell, rending space-time apart with a destructive force that swept through the air.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan was mmed as if by a mountain, sent flying backward to crash into a rock wall, cracking it open. He felt like he was about to throw up his organs.

    However, the Fire-Scaled Beast didn¡¯t have an easy time, either. The halberd had chopped off. Its sharp ws, blood flowing freely from the wound. The impact had also sent the enormous beast flying, leaving behind an opening that exposed the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus.

    ¡°Do it, Xiao Zhen. Go get the lotus. I¡¯ll hold back this beast!¡±

    A fierce light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes and he immediately rushed forth again.

    They had to use the opening to snatch the lotus. If they let the beast close the gap again, it would be incredibly difficult to get the lotus.

    Xiao Zhen flitted toward the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus.

    ¡°<i>Roar, roar</i>!¡±

    The Fire-Scaled Beast¡¯s eyes turned red in rage when it saw Xiao Zhen speeding toward the lotus. An iparably berserk aura spread out from it, shaking the entire cavern.

    The beast wanted to attack and kill this abominable human to protect the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus it was guarding.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going, you sinful beast!¡±

    However, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t let it do what it wanted. Gritting his teeth, he pushed his cultivation to the limit, ignoring his tumbling qi and blood. He executed the Strength of Myriad Elephants and struck out violently.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd stabbed out at lightning speed, slicing through the air with chaotic primeval qi tearing in all directions.

    The Fire-Scaled Beast instantly felt an iparably dangerous aura. Although the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus was incredibly important, its own life was paramount.

    The Fire-Scaled Beast gave up on attacking Xiao Zhen and directed all of its anger onto Chen Fan.

    Opening its jaws wide, the Fire-Scaled Beast spat out a torrent of mes, engulfing the space in an attempt to burn Chen Fan alive.

    Feeling the intensity of the fire, Chen Fan¡¯s expression changed slightly. However, he had no choice but to confront it head-on to protect Xiao Zhen.

    ¡°Extinguish!¡±

    He swung his arm and streaks of halberd light filled the air, colliding with the Fire-Scaled Beast¡¯s fiery assault.

    An enormous explosion immediately boomed. mes erupted like fireworks, dazzling and deadly.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± roared the Fire-Scaled Beast furiously. Streaks of terrifying cold light descended, wanting to rip through everything.

    Chen Fan raised the Purgatory Divine Halberd to block.

    <i>Dong, dong, dong!</i>

    The tremendous force erupted like ancient divine mountains crashing down upon him.

    He trembled violently, feeling like his bones were about to turn into dust. He couldn¡¯t hold it in and coughed uprge mouthfuls of blood.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The beast¡¯s attack nearly tore Chen Fan in half. Fresh blood-spattered as he was sent flying, crashing onto the cavern¡¯s rock walls.

    The Fire-Scaled Beast did not continue attacking Chen Fan. Instead, it quickly turned around and pounced toward Xiao Zhen, determined to prevent him from reaching the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus.

    ¡°Die, you beast!¡± Gritting his teeth, Chen Fanunched himself forward again, just as determined to keep the beast away from Xiao Zhen.

    Chen Fan looked like a blood-soaked sponge, but his aura kept surging furiously. The sound of ancient giant elephants hissing rang out as if a heavenly god was descending into the mortal world.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Heaven and earth changed colors as heunched a terrifying stab with his halberd. Even a three-revolution Golden Core supreme expert would perish under this attack.

    Enraged by Chen Fan¡¯s interference, the Fire-Scaled Beast seethed with fury. Hot air sted from its nostrils. If this continued, Xiao Zhen would secure the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus.

    However, it also could not just ignore Chen Fan¡¯s attack. The sharpness of a Grade-5 treasure was enough to threaten its life.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± roared the Fire-Scaled Beast furiously, channeling its demonic energy into a fiery red finger. Magma was flowing within this finger, emanating an iparably terrifying aura.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The Fire-Scaled Beast and Chen Fan¡¯s attacks collided without any frills.

    Chen Fan trembled, and his bones once again asked to be let out from their fleshly prison. He flew backward like a kite with its string cut.

    A terrifying force swept over him, making Chen Fan¡¯s protective true primeval blow-up.

    Thankfully, Xiao Zhen had finally harvested the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus. He pulled back instantly and grabbed at the empty air, catching Chen Fan. Next, he sped toward the cavern¡¯s exit.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The Fire-Scaled Beast unleashed a furious cry that shook even the sky outside. The Earth Fire Heaven Lotus it had guarded for centuries had been stolen by some two-legged freaks. Mere words couldn¡¯t describe its anger.

    Regaining itsposure, the Fire-Scaled Beast surged forward like a streak of fiery light, tearing through the air in pursuit. It was determined to reim the stolen lotus.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Xiao Zhen was extremely fast. His protective true primeval rubbed fiercely with the air, producing mes. He tore through the darkness like a big ball of mes, quickly rushing out of the cavern and flying into the distance.

 Chapter 539 - Flying Eagle Alliance

    <h4>Chapter 539 - Flying Eagle Alliance</h4>

    Xiao Zhen ran like his life depended on it. Noticing Chen Fan¡¯s abysmal vitality, he hurriedly asked, ¡°How are you feeling, Brother Chen Fan?¡±

    Chen Fan had yed a crucial role in their n to take the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus. Had he not held back the Fire-Scaled Beast, Xiao Zhen wouldn¡¯t have stood a chance.

    Chen Fan took out an elixir and consumed it. He soon said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Let¡¯s leave quickly. The Fire-Scaled Beast will catch up to us soon.¡±

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen fled for their lives. The enraged Fire-Scaled Beast pursued them like a mad dog, bent on revenge. Only the blood of the duo could sate its anger now.

    However, they were top geniuses of the thirty-six nations¡¯ younger generation. They were lightning fast; before long, they had put a good distance between them and the beast.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Half an hourter, Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen descended into a valley.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Just as theynded, Chen Fan staggered and spat out arge mouthful of fresh blood.

    Xiao Zhen¡¯s expression darkened immediately, and he cried out, ¡°Brother Chen Fan!¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just clotted blood.¡±

    Xiao Zhen sighed in relief and said, ¡°We could get this lotus all thanks to you, Brother Chen Fan. I shiver at the thought of fighting that beast alone.¡±

    ¡°Since we¡¯re cooperating, I had to do my best,¡± Chen Fan said.

    ¡°Well said!¡± Xiao Zhen eximed. ¡°I knew I could count on you. From now on, consider me your brother!¡±

    He took out the lotus pod containing ten seeds and said, ¡°Brother Chen Fan, you put in more effort and suffered heavier injuries. You should take six, and I''ll take four.¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°We agreed on splitting them evenly. Besides, if it weren¡¯t for your invitation, I wouldn¡¯t have gotten even one. Let¡¯s stick to our original n.¡±

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s settled then. We¡¯re both grown men; let¡¯s not dwell on these trivial matters.¡±

    ¡°Heh, fair enough. Since you insist, Brother Chen Fan.¡± Xiao Zhen nodded and handed five of the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus seeds to Chen Fan, impressed by his integrity.

    Most others would have agreed to the six-four split proposal immediately, given Xiao Zhen''s lesser contribution to the operation. However, Chen Fan honestly chose to split them evenly.

    Each seed could temper one¡¯s golden core once, and each round of tempering meant fewer impurities in its golden core. The temptation was irresistible.

    Chen Fan began healing his injuries and Xiao Zhen began tempering his golden core with the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus seed.

    Although his injuries looked severe from the outside, having been nearly gutted by the Fire-Scaled Beast, they were only superficial.

    After consuming some Recovery Elixirs that aided his already-freakish recovery speed, his superficial injuries were pretty much all healed after about half a day.

    Chen Fan nced at Xiao Zhen who was still tempering his golden core and took out a lotus seed. Sensing the scorching energy contained within, he raised his eyebrow before swallowing it.

    As soon as the seed entered his mouth, he felt as if he had swallowed a sun. Suffice it to say, it was iparably hot. That heat coursed through him, seemingly poised to burn him from the inside out.

    Thankfully, the scalding sensation left as quickly as it came. His golden core soon exhausted the seed¡¯s energy.

    Bundles of energy rushed into his golden core; immediately, Chen Fan felt like he had put his golden core inside an alchemy furnace. As it was being tempered, wisps of ck qi emerged from his golden core, which were nothing but the impurities in his golden core.

    Chen Fan had paid a lot of attention to his foundation, but that couldn¡¯t offset the dangers that came with growing so strong so quickly.

    Now, under the tempering of the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus seed, these hidden damages had nowhere to hide.

    <i>Sizzle, sizzle, sizzle. Sizzle, sizzle, sizzle...</i>

    The Earth Fire Heaven Lotus seed¡¯s energy roasted his golden core continuously, thoroughly refining away the impurities.

    The golden light radiating from his golden core became increasingly brilliant. He could clearly sense that his true primeval was bing increasingly dense.

    Half a day went by.

    Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen opened their eyes almost simultaneously, which flickered brightly.

    ¡°This truly lives up to its reputation as a miraculous core-tempering treasure. Just one seed has significantly purified my golden core. My true primeval is so dense now... Not to mention that my control over my power has also grown stronger,¡± Xiao Zhen said, smiling.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    Xiao Zhen stood up and said, ¡°Brother Chen Fan, what are your ns going forward? Over a thousand geniuses from the thirty-six nations are herepeting for opportunities. It¡¯s not advantageous to venture alone. Why don¡¯t youe to our Flying Eagle Alliance first?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be imposing on you, then,¡± replied Chen Fan.

    He still didn¡¯t know much about the ind itself or the geniuses here. He thought that an alliance like that was bound to have more information than him, so joining them seemed like a good move.

    Xiao Zhen brought Chen Fan to a modestly sized valley over fifty kilometers away where several martial artists had gathered. They were all at least in the high-level Core Formation realm, with fewer in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core level.

    As Xiao Zhen streaked across the sky with Chen Fan, drawing the attention of those in the valley, a pair of youths, one man and one woman, approached them.

    ¡°This is Liu Xin, a disciple of the Ancient Dawn Empire¡¯s Traceless Immortal Pce,¡± Xiao Zhen introduced, his voice ringing in Chen Fan¡¯s ear.

    Liu Xin was an extremely beautiful woman, dressed in a baby goose-yellow dress. She was like a human fairy, her eyes were like water, her skin like snow. Her absolute beauty was stunning.

    ¡°This is Luo Qian, the Demon Crushing Sect¡¯s top disciple of this generation from the Sky Rock Empire.¡±

    Xiao Zhen was referring to a tall and handsome youth around thirty years old.

    ¡°Brother Xiao, this person is...?¡± Luo Qian nced at Chen Fan with scorn.

    ¡°He is Chen Fan, a disciple of the Great Chu Empire¡¯s Spring Autumn Sect. Don¡¯t underestimate him. He¡¯s no less capable than me, which is why I invited him to join us for a while,¡± Xiao Zhen exined.

    ¡°Wee,¡± Luo Qian said inly. His expressions said that he didn¡¯t think much of their group¡¯s new member. Evidently, Xiao Zhen¡¯s words hadn¡¯t convinced him of Chen Fan¡¯s strength.

    A ninth-level Core Formation realm expert couldn¡¯t be considered weak, but there were plenty of them in their alliance. Moreover, they were far inferior to a three-revolution Golden Core supreme expert like him.

    If the scope were the entire Hong Domain, a ninth-level Core Formation realm was merely a quasi-first-rate expert.

    Even if he had to pick out the worst, first-rate genius, they would be at the peak of the ninth level, perhaps even at one or two-revolution Golden Core.

    As for top geniuses, the minimum would be like the number one figures of the younger generation of the six great nations, reaching four or five-revolution Golden Core.

    Now that all the young geniuses of the entire Hong Domain were on the Hidden Dragon Ind, a cultivator at the early stage of the ninth level did not count for much at all. Only experts at the peak of the ninth level or higher had the right to speak here.

 Chapter 540 - Breaking Off Relations

    <h4>Chapter 540 - Breaking Off Rtions</h4>

    Liu Xin and Luo Qian were three-revolution Golden Core realm experts. They could be considered first-rate among the geniuses on Hidden Dragon Ind, even close to top-tier.

    Naturally, the empires they hailed from were far stronger than the Great Chu Empire, just below the level of the six great nations.

    Their scorn didn¡¯t anger Chen Fan, as he knew well that in this world, strength determined everything. He also knew that revealing his strength to Luo Qian would bring him no benefits.

    The Flying Eagle Alliance members in the valley were geniuses from various empires. In their respective forces, they were hailed as the top one or two holy disciples. Otherwise, they wouldn''t have secured a spot on this ind.

    The crowd had gathered here to rest and wait for more people to arrive, slowly forming an alliance. The trial had yet to officially begin, and they were the early arrivals. Once the trial started, thepetition would be even fiercer.

    Besidespeting with each other, they also had to be cautious of the Hidden Dragon Ind''s environment.

    Most people here were not here to fight but to search for legacies and natural treasures. There was no need to make unnecessary enemies.

    Of course, when it was time to fight, they would do so; if necessary, they wouldn¡¯t hesitate to kill.

    Soon, three days passed.

    Many more people had found this valley and joined the Flying Eagle Alliance.

    The Flying Eagle Alliance had over a hundred members now, with the strongest Xiao Zhen serving as alliance leader and Liu Xin and Luo Qian serving as vice-alliance leaders.

    As they searched for treasures, having the alliance as support made a significant difference.

    Chen Fan¡¯s behavior was rather ck and he operated alone. Few people recognized him due to his sporadic appearances.

    At some point, a small city was built in the valley. Building a city was nothing difficult for these Core Formation realm experts with remarkable abilities.

    When Chen Fan returned to the valley one day, he realized the number of people had fallen drastically. From the original hundred-plus, only forty to fifty remained.

    He supposed that those unwilling to stay behind had left, and the remaining people were the true Flying Eagle Alliance members. Still, he saw many new faces.

    He happened to run into a group of about ten martial artists, rushing over from outside.

    The leader was a withered, skinny man dressed in leather clothing, with disheveled hair and a sinister, concealed face.

    A huge tiger was lying on the ground in front of him, its low roars echoing through the valley. He was probably a frightening expert from some tribe.

    This group of ten or so people seemed to be waiting to enter the city, and the alliance members guarding the city gates also appeared unfamiliar to Chen Fan. Soon, the small city¡¯s gates opened.

    With his head held high and his chest puffed out, the withered and skinny man was about to enter. The people behind him walked slowly, not daring to overtake him.

    However, someone dressed in white walked over first, overtaking the group.

    A cruel look shed in the withered man¡¯s eyes. The ferocious tiger, which was mentally connected to him, roared so ferociously that the skies shook. It turned into a streak of yellow-ck lightning and tried to sneak attack Chen Fan from behind.

    The tiger opened its mouth wide to bite Chen Fan to death. Its terrifying aura spread out in all directions. The nearby gate guards and those following the withered man were all slightly shaken.

    While they weren¡¯t weak, being at the seventh, eighth, or ninth level of the Core Formation realm, the tiger was at the peak of the ninth level.

    Surprisingly, that demonic beast was stronger than the geniuses of many nations. They couldn¡¯t help but be intimidated.

    Sensing the dangerous auraing from behind him, Chen Fan immediately grew furious.

    The attack was sudden, but Chen Fan just as quickly retaliated with a backhanded palm strike.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The palm strike hit the huge demonic beast, crushing all its bones. It went flying out, spewing fresh blood wildly. It crashed near the withered man¡¯s feet and breathed itsst, unable to even let out a cry.

    The quick exchange dumbfounded everyone.

    They had thought that Chen Fan would be torn apart by the beast because he had offended a cruel person. Unexpectedly, he killed the tiger with one palm strike.

    ¡°How is that possible? That beast was at the peak of the ninth level. It could have ruled a huge area in the world outside. Who is he? How could he be so terrifying?¡±

    The crowd¡¯s hearts were thumping heavily.

    If the demonic beast was at the peak of the ninth level, its master was bound to be even more formidable¡ªan invincible expert in the one-revolution Golden Core realm at the very least.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± The withered man was instantly enraged.

    Just as he was about to make a move, a streak of rainbow light flew out from within the valley, revealing a tall and handsome youth. His face was frosty. It was none other than Luo Qian.

    ¡°Chen Fan, are you provoking our Flying Eagle Alliance?¡± Luo Qian found fault with Chen Fan as soon as he arrived.

    ¡°I¡¯m not trying to provoke anyone, nor do I want to cause trouble. If I¡¯m not weed here, I¡¯ll leave right away,¡± answered Chen Fan calmly even as the mes of anger slowly rose inside him.

    Luo Qian was trying to me him without investigating the matter. However, he did not want to escte the situation.

    ¡°You want to leave after killing my mount? Isn¡¯t that a little toote!¡± The withered man stared fixedly at Chen Fan with his sinister eyes.

    ¡°I would advise you not to find trouble with me. I can ughter two-revolution Golden Core realm trash like I am ughtering a chicken or a duck,¡± Chen Fan said, narrowing his eyes.

    ¡°Insolence! Chen Fan, you still dare to act arrogant!¡± Luo Qian shouted furiously.

    ¡°Are you blind? Who exactly is the one acting arrogant here!¡± Chen Fan shot a cold gaze at Luo Qian. Thetter instantly felt as if a ferocious beast was targeting him; his heart began trembling.

    Luo Qian¡¯s expression immediately became iparably ugly, feeling as if his authority was being challenged. He shot a fierce gaze at Chen Fan. They were like two sharp swords and were iparably cold.

    ¡°Brother Luo, I, Aguda, came here at your invitation, but he killed my preciouspanion. I can¡¯t be appeased if I don¡¯t kill him today!¡±

    The withered youth, Aguda, stared at Chen Fan with a sinister gaze.

    Chen Fan had killed his demonic tiger mount and insulted him, saying that killing him was no different from ughtering poultry. This was the worst humiliation he ever suffered in his life. He needed to kill Chen Fan to wash away the shame.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind sending you off if you wish to die!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°You¡¯re acting really arrogant here. Are you trying to provoke all the martial artists of our Flying Eagle Alliance?¡± Luo Qian said, looking coldly at Chen Fan.

    He would have killed Chen Fan long ago had he not been giving face to Xiao Zhen. Now, Chen Fan dared to act arrogant in front of him. He truly was asking to die!

 Chapter 541 - Ancient Monument Remnant Will

    <h4>Chapter 541 - Ancient Monument Remnant Will</h4>

    ¡°This is clearly a feud between me and him. What does it have to do with the Flying Eagle Alliance? You''re trying to involve the alliance in your personal matters. Do you see the Flying Eagle Alliance as your private army, Luo Qian?¡± Chen Fan''s words struck a nerve, making Luo Qian''s expression darken further.

    Let alone a three-revolution Golden Core expert like Luo Qian, even a four-revolution Golden Core expert couldn¡¯t stop Chen Fan if he wanted to leave. So, Chen Fan wasn''t afraid of him.

    Moreover, that was true only for the current situation; the future was uncertain. Therefore, Chen Fan didn''t take Luo Qian seriously, nor did he regard Aguda highly.

    Although Aguda was a two-revolution Golden Core realm expert, first-rate among the geniuses here, Chen Fan didn''t find this impressive.

    Despite only being at the ninth level, hisbat prowess was on par with a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert. Killing Aguda, a two-revolution expert, would be easy.

    Chen Fan¡¯s words stirred the hearts of many of the Flying Eagle Alliance members. They could distinguish right from wrong.

    Aguda had tried to kill Chen Fan first andter provoked him. Clearly, reason was not on Aguda''s side, especially after Luo Qian intervened.

    So be it if he wanted to fight on his own; no one would say a word about it. However, repeatedly mentioning the alliance seemed like an attempt to drag them into the conflict.

    Almost all of them had joined the alliance to find themselves a backer, a shield, that would save them from getting bullied by others in case conflict arose due to a treasure. They weren¡¯t here to beckeys, a private army, or cannon fodder for others.

    After all, even the most ordinary member of the Flying Eagle Alliance was a super genius in other ces. They were the focus of the crowd, the treasured child in the hearts of their sects¡¯ seniors.

    None of them were fools, either. There was no reason for them to work for others for nothing, or even act as cannon fodder for them.

    Luo Qian noticed the unrest among the Flying Eagle Alliance members behind him, his expression bing increasingly ugly. His gaze at Chen Fan was filled with unconcealed killing intent.

    Chen Fan shot a cold nce at Luo Qian and turned to leave without lingering. If Luo Qian or Aguda dared to make a move, he would make them regret it deeply

    However, he knew that his rtionship with the Flying Eagle Alliance was nowpletely destroyed, though there hadn''t been much of a rtionship to begin with.

    Luo Qian, contemting something, didn''t make a move until Chen Fan hadpletely disappeared. He let Chen Fan leave but maintained his intense, hostile killing intent.

    Chen Fan did not regret breaking off rtions with the Flying Eagle Alliance. He was used to working alone. Even while he was a part of the alliance, he ventured out by himself, so he felt calm and unbothered.

    He headed towards the depths of the Hidden Dragon Ind. Until now, he had only explored the outer areas, which was insignificantpared to the entire ind.

    He arrived at a forbidden area. Tall trees, growing for unknown years, covered the sky, each as tall as skyscrapers. As he explored further, he came across the ruins of buildings hidden in the forest.

    ¡°It''s such a pity that some of the architectural relics have been destroyed. The blood cmity three thousand years ago turned the ind into a mere historical remnant.¡±

    The fact that the battle even affected the main part of the Hidden Dragon Ind was a testament to its horrific nature. Its magnificent architecture had transformed into ruins, leaving nothing behind¡ªno opportunities or legacies.

    Chen Fan was not discouraged and ventured deeper. Compared to the outside world, primeval qi here was far more abundant, making it an excellent cultivation spot.

    However, having been sealed off for three thousand years, the demonic beasts that survived the disaster had grown terrifyingly powerful from cultivating in such an environment. Even with Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, he had to move around carefully.

    asionally, extremely terrifying demonic beasts would pass by, whether in the sky or onnd. The wind produced by their movement could easily tear a Yuanfu realm martial artist to shreds.

    These demonic beasts were all in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm, with strengths ranging from the four to five-revolution level. Chen Fan couldn''t deal with them yet, so he had to conceal himself and avoid exposure.

    Chen Fan soon saw a ruin site in the distance.

    He walked over to take a look. Tall trees were obscuring the terrain of the surrounding area, so he could only vaguely make out that underneath the trees was an enormous za paved with white marble. A tiny bit of white color was exposed here and there, confirming Chen Fan¡¯s guess.

    A broken ancient monument was stuck diagonally in the ground.

    This ancient monument was likely once enormous, standing over ten meters tall. Now, however, two-thirds of it was gone, leaving only a third, emanating a bleak and unadorned aura.

    He noticed some blurry, tiny characters written in ancient seal script on the monument. These tiny characters were stained with dirt and had ckish-brown marks, likely dried blood.

    Chen Fan reached out, wanting to dust off the dirt. As soon as he came into contact with the ancient monument, a powerful will suddenly rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    An image immediately surfaced in his mind.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An enormous hand that covered the sky descended from above, shrouding the area. It crushed the space, pulverizingrge swathes of buildings into nothingness. Many of the Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s disciples died tragically under this hand.

    Another enormous hand struck out, sweeping across space and colliding with the descending hand. It was like a major disaster; the sea water flowed backward, and the entire Hidden Dragon Ind seemed on the verge of shattering.

    A blurry silhouette appeared high in the sky, their aura distorting the space itself. Although their face was unclear, the immensity of their power was palpable.

    The two terrifying silhouettes fought fiercely above the nine heavens, causing the sun and the moon to lose their lights. Their moves could pick the stars or seize the moon, destroying heaven and earth. Their terrifying auras swept across the heavens andnds.

    The two were like emperors of the world, powerful beyond measure and extremely terrifying.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A rain of blood fell. Another terrifying enormous hand appeared and fell onto the Hidden Dragon Ind, destroying many of its buildings. A massive army marched through the sky, forcing their way onto the ind and causing more bloodshed.

    The small golden person hiding in Chen Fan¡¯s be suddenly shook. A supreme divine might erupted, abruptly halting the images in Chen Fan¡¯s mind.

    Chen Fan snapped back to his senses, ayer of cold sweat covering his back. The ancient monument before him had turned to ash and dissipated.

    He sucked in a breath of cold air. His back waspletely soaked in sweat.

    There was probably the remnant will of a certain powerhouse of the Hidden Dragon Ind left behind on the ancient monument. The instant he touched the monument, his consciousness was pulled into the remnant will.

    If it wasn¡¯t for the small golden person¡¯s outburst wiping out this wisp of remnant will, Chen Fan would have continued sinking deeper until his true spirit was extinguished.

 Chapter 542 - Legend of the Hidden Dragon Island

    <h4>Chapter 542 - Legend of the Hidden Dragon Ind</h4>

    A sense of fear crept up on Chen Fan afterward.

    If it weren¡¯t for the small golden person, the remnant will would have overwhelmed him. He would have been trapped, unable to free himself until he was annihted.

    He had been still too careless.

    He should have expected the monument to be hiding something, which, in this case, turned out to be the will of some supreme powerhouse from three thousand years ago. He fell into the trap the moment he touched it.

    ¡°How truly terrifying. Three thousand years ago, the demonic path invaded the Hidden Dragon Ind and turned it into history," Chen Fan muttered, furrowing his brow as he recalled the shocking images he had just seen.

    This was all in the past, however. The Hidden Dragon Ind was history, and so was the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect, leaving only some remnants still making waves in the Tianwu Continent.

    ......

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Chen Fan killed a demonic beast covered in scales with his halberd. Fresh blood spattered out; surprisingly, his qi and blood felt slightly agitated.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, revealing a look of puzzlement.

    His bloodline had throbbed when the demonic beast¡¯s blood spattered, carrying a hint of longing.

    Chen Fan grabbed at the empty air, draining this demonic beast¡¯s fresh blood.

    As expected, his bloodline throbbed again. The sense of longing was even stronger now.

    ¡°Rumors say that a divine dragon once perched on the Hidden Dragon Ind, bleeding over the ind. That¡¯s how the ind got its name. This demonic beast¡¯s blood likely contains a trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline, which would prove that the legend is real!¡±

    Soon, Chen Fan thought of the legends rted to the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    ¡°But I have killed plenty of demonic beasts before this one, but this reaction... is new. Why?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes darted around, puzzled.

    If the Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s legend was real, the demonic beasts on the ind should have a trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline. So, the demonic beasts he had killed before should have also triggered his bloodline. Yet, nothing like that happened until now.

    ¡°Perhaps my way of thinking is wrong. The Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s legend is indeed real, but perhaps only a small fraction of demonic beasts obtained a trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline.

    ¡°What a pity. If they all had a trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline, I could have refined it and taken my physique to the next level. I could have advanced to the fifteenthyer and reachedplete mastery.¡±

    Chen Fan had already cultivated the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fourteenthyer. Even in the Nebulous Divine Pce of the past, someone like him would be extremely rare, like a phoenix¡¯s feather or a qilin¡¯s horn.

    However, he hadn¡¯t been able to make any progress since then. It seemed impossible to cultivate it to the fifteenthyer, the realm ofplete mastery.

    Atplete mastery, Chen Fan could take on a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse just by relying on his physical strength.

    The Hidden Dragon Ind was fraught with dangers, so if he could reachplete mastery, he would be in a much safer position. He could also venture deeper into the ind confidently to search the ruins for legacies.

    After absorbing and refining the trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline, Chen Fan channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. A bronze luster formed on his skin, looking robust and powerful, containing terrifying explosive strength.

    Although Chen Fan appeared slim due to his small skeleton, he was far from skinny or weak. On the contrary, his physique was terrifyingly strong. Unlike those who merely looked bulky, he possessed an exponentially greater strength.

    As he absorbed and refined the faint trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline, he sensed that his physique was finally making minor progress. If he had enough bloodline power, he could push his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fifteenthyer.

    ¡°Hopefully, the demonic beasts I encounterter will all possess a trace of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline power. I guess there is still hope for the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. Otherwise, I¡¯m afraid I will have to wait until I advance to the Divine Nascent realm. I could use my great tribtion to break through to the fifteenthyer.¡±

    Chen Fan continued heading deeper into the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Pressing deeper into Hidden Dragon Ind, Chen Fan spent an entire day and night ying countless demonic beasts. Only a small fraction of them carried traces of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline, all of which he absorbed and refined.

    Although the effects weren¡¯t very obvious, there was still hope, after all. Thus, Chen Fan felt quite happy inside.

    Perhaps the terrifying demonic beasts in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core level, located deeper within, had more of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline. If he could hunt them, his Myriad Elephants Divine Art would improve even faster.

    However, Chen Fan still could not hunt demonic beasts in the four-revolution Golden Core or above, though one or two-revolution Golden Core demonic beasts were not a problem.

    He was not in a hurry, however. When his cultivation level rose, hisbat strength would also skyrocket. Eventually, killing four or five-revolution Golden Core demonic beasts would be easy.

    Still, he only had a hundred days, a rtively short time, so he needed to make the most of it.

    Fortunately, there were enough demonic beasts on the Hidden Dragon Ind. After killing them, he retrieved their demon cores and directly refined them to raise his cultivation.

    Three dayster, his aura became stronger, reaching the middle stage of the ninth level, only a step away from thete stage of the ninth level. Breaking through would be easy after refining a few more demon cores.

    Although there were drawbacks to raising one''s cultivation through shortcuts, the Heaven Seizing Furnace was incredibly profound, minimizing these drawbacks.

    Even so, minor drawbacks remained, but Chen Fan had the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus seeds to expel them when needed.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± A vicious roar resounded through heaven and earth.

    Under Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious attacks, a giant bird enveloped in zing mes cried out miserably as its blood colored the area. Ultimately, its mes were extinguished along with its life.

    This great demonic beast, at the three-revolution level, had dominated the surrounding areas, an overlord-ss existence.

    Unfortunately, it ran into Chen Fan, whose strength had risen by a small margin. Now, he could kill three-revolution Golden Core level experts without a problem.

    ¡°Excellent. This ming Bird has powerful cultivation and possesses quite a bit of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline. More importantly, a three-revolution Golden Core level demon core is enough to help me advance into thete stage of the ninth level.¡± Chen Fan grinned, feeling satisfied with this operation.

    He quickly extracted the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline and immediately began absorbing and refining it. It wasparable to more than a dozen of the demonic beasts with traces of the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline power he had killed previously.

    Chen Fan immediately sensed his Myriad Elephants Divine Art improving significantly. His physique also became much stronger. Afterward, he retrieved its demon core and directly tossed it into the Heaven Seizing Furnace to refine it.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    A little less than an hourter, Chen Fan¡¯s aura suddenly shook fiercely. A formless, invisible qi current spread and swept out, causing the ancient trees within the surrounding kilometer to be met with a disaster.

 Chapter 543 - Martial Dao Will Fragment

    <h4>Chapter 543 - Martial Dao Will Fragment</h4>

    Chen Fan exhaled a mouthful of turbid qi, smiled, and said, ¡°Great, I have advanced to thete stage of the ninth level.¡±

    His recent advancement cost him over a hundred demon cores, but he finally reached thete stage, raising his strength by a huge margin.

    ¡°With my current strength, I can even fight with a four-revolution Golden Core level supreme expert!"

    Chen Fan had absolute confidence. He wouldn''t be as overwhelmed if he had to face that Fire-Scaled Beast again. He still couldn¡¯t kill the beast, but the beast couldn¡¯t bring him down either now.

    ¡°When my cultivation reaches the one-revolution Golden Core level, my overallbat strength will likely match that of a five-revolution Golden Core supreme expert. But there is a long way to go,¡± Chen Fan mused.

    His strength was still insufficientpared to the thousand experts on the Hidden Dragon Ind. Figures like Li Yao, Ye Cangxuan, Gongsun Zhong, and the others were far superior to him. He was only equivalent to a first-rate expert at the moment.

    As the trial progressed, the chances of shing with Li Yao and the others would increase if he wanted to seize more opportunities on Hidden Dragon Ind. At his current level, he wouldn¡¯t be able to fight them well enough.

    However, Chen Fan was not too worried about it.

    With the Heaven Seizing Furnace, raising his cultivation wasn¡¯t a difficult task as long as he had sufficient demon cores.

    Of course, as his cultivation progressed, the difficulty would increase exponentially. He would need an enormous amount of cultivation resources to achieve breakthroughs in cultivation. One could only imagine the misfortune awaiting the demonic beasts on Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Before Chen Fan could get lost in thoughts, rumbling noises suddenly resounded throughout the ind. An iparably authoritative voice immediately rang out from his nomination token.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze narrowed.

    He had arrived on the Hidden Dragon Ind some time ago, so he was among the earliest arrivals. The voice from his token had announced that the trial on the Hidden Dragon Ind had officially begun, which meant that all the top geniuses from the thirty-six nations were now present on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Over the next hundred days,munication with the outside world would be impossible. They could rely only on themselves.

    This period would also see everyone gradually shedding their inhibitions and engaging in even fiercer battles.

    The impending trials promised to be bloody and ruthless.

    ......

    Shortly after the trial officially began, news spread across the ind: someone found a fragment of Martial Dao Will in a mountain range.

    The news immediately created a stir across the entire Hidden Dragon Ind.

    What was a Martial Dao Will?

    For a Yuanfu realm expert, it might remain a vague concept. However, for experts in the Core Formation realm like Chen Fan, especially these super geniuses, it held profound significance.

    If a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse wished to break through to the Heavenly Star realm, they needed toprehend a Martial Dao Will.

    However, Martial Dao Wills were incredibly mysterious and unfathomable. Many peak Divine Nascent realm powerhouses remained stuck at this stage, ultimately passing away with unfulfilled ambitions.

    A Martial Dao Will fragment was a rare treasure that could aid martial artists inprehending Martial Dao Will.

    These fragments could either be remnants of a fallen Heavenly Star realm powerhouse or form naturally. Regardless, a Martial Dao Will fragment was extremely valuable.

    If ced in the outside world, such a treasure would incite a bloodbath.

    Countless Divine Nascent realm powerhouses would fight over it, and even Heavenly Star realm powerhouses might step in to seize it.

    The eastern continent had a total of a hundred and eight domains, and the Hong Domain was one of the weaker ones.

    The only known Heavenly Star realm powerhouse was the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Emperor Li. This underscored the immense difficulty of advancing from the Divine Nascent realm to the Heavenly Star realm.

    Before the blood cmity struck three thousand years ago, the Hong Domain was considered one of the stronger domains in the eastern continent. Heavenly Star realm powerhouses, though not abundant, were not rare either.

    Otherwise, a terrifying quasi-Manifestation realm expert like Daoist Corpse Spirit wouldn¡¯t have been suppressed under the Myriad Deaths Mountains for three thousand years.

    As a top-tier force in the Hong Domain, Hidden Dragon Ind naturally had its share of Heavenly Star realm beings. They even had super experts at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm.

    So, it made sense that the ind had a Martial Dao Will fragment, perhaps left behind by a powerhouse after their death.

    Chen Fan and the others were close to reaching the Divine Nascent realm. Obtaining a fragment of Martial Dao Will would make it much easier for them to advance to the Heavenly Star realm in the future.

    On the Tianwu Continent, some amazingly talented, supremely monstrous geniuses had alreadyprehended a Martial Dao Will while still in the Core Formation realm, ensuring a smooth advancement to the Heavenly Star realm.

    Chen Fan considered himself a genius. However, he wasn¡¯t confident he couldprehend a Martial Dao Will by the time he reached the peak of the Divine Nascent realm to transition smoothly into the Heavenly Star realm.

    Many geniuses, proud and peerless in their youth, got stuck at this stage, unable to progress any further until their death.

    If he could obtain a Martial Dao Will fragment now, he would gain a crucial advantage. He could slowlyprehend the Martial Dao Will within, nting a seed in his heart and waiting for it to bear fruit in the future.

    Considering how difficult it was toprehend a Martial Dao Will, it was simply impossible for ordinary people. Only one in approximately a hundred thousand couldprehend Martial Dao Will on their own.

    Even among all the geniuses on the Hidden Dragon Ind, the number of people who couldprehend Martial Dao Will on their own in the future could probably be counted on one hand.

    That was just how difficult it was toprehend Martial Dao Will.

    Now that a Martial Dao Will fragment had appeared on the Hidden Dragon Ind, Chen Fan could foresee an inevitable and bloody battle.

    In the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain, reaching the Divine Nascent realm meant bing a peak expert, able to act without restraint.

    However, Chen Fan and the others were the most outstanding geniuses carefully selected by these nations. They wouldn''t be content with just the Divine Nascent realm; they aspired to reach the Heavenly Star realm or even the Manifestation realm.

    Why was the Great Li Imperial Court the current supreme ruler of the Hong Domain, with all forces submitting to its authority?

    Allnd under heaven was the territory of the sovereign. Within the boundaries of thend, all were the king''s servants.

    This was solely because Emperor Li was a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse. He could overwhelm all the Divine Nascent realm powerhouses in the Hong Domain alone.

    Who would willingly submit to another? No one!

    If one of them could advance to the Heavenly Star realm, they could stand on equal footing with Emperor Li,mand the world, and face no disobedience.

    That was the power that came with strength!

 Chapter 544 - Meeting the Flying Eagle Alliance Once More

    <h4>Chapter 544 - Meeting the Flying Eagle Alliance Once More</h4>

    The revtion of the Martial Dao Will fragments threw Hidden Dragon Ind into an uproar, with countless people moring in excitement with their eyes red with fervor. The experts on the ind were abuzz.

    The Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance, the biggest alliance on the ind, imed the first Martial Dao Will fragment. Its leader was none other than the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Prince Li Yao, known as the number one genius of the younger generation in the Hong Domain.

    It was said that the battle for this fragment was catastrophic.

    The appearance of that fragment of Martial Dao Will had attracted many human martial artists and even demonic beasts.

    Once demonic beasts reached the Core Formation realm, they would be intelligent. Some would even be enlightened enough to speak humannguage and could already be called demon spirits.

    However, even the unenlightened ones could sense the fragment''s immense importance.

    The fight for this first Martial Dao Will fragment resulted in the tragic deaths of thirty prodigies, including some three-revolution Golden Core supreme experts. The sheer intensity of the battle was evident from the bloodshed.

    Even so, this Martial Dao Will fragment ended up in Li Yao¡¯s hands. This demonstrated Li Yao''s formidable power and solidified his reputation as the top figure of the younger generation.

    ording to the information revealed by people with unknown motives, Li Yao was at the six-revolution Golden Core realm. He was absolutely invincible.

    However, that was to be expected, as the Great Li Imperial Court was the supreme ruler of the Hong Domain.

    He was a descendant of Emperor Li, so he was bound to be talented. He could also obtain guidance from Emperor Li himself, so it made sense that he could look down on his peers.

    The news also left Chen Fan shocked.

    If Li Yao were in the Spring Autumn Sect, he would undoubtedly be one of the strongest figures, surpassed only by Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu. He was even stronger than thew enforcement grand elder.

    As for this Martial Dao Will fragment falling into Li Yao¡¯s hands, no one on the ind could do anything about it.

    Despite their unwillingness, they had to ept it. Li Yao¡¯s immense strength,bined with the powerful experts in the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance he established, made it inevitable.

    The alliance¡¯s name, Heaven¡¯s Equal, mirrored Li Yao¡¯s ambition to rival the heavens.

    Shortly after the first fragment appeared, a second, third, fourth, and eventually the eighth Martial Dao Will fragment surfaced in session, shocking everyone.

    No one had expected so many Martial Dao Will fragments to appear on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    They were Martial Dao Will fragments, not potatoes!

    Had they not been on the ind, many of these geniuses would have died without ever seeing one. After all, how many could advance to the Heavenly Star realm among them?

    The sudden appearance of so many fragments increased their chances of reaching the Heavenly Star realm by at least fifty percent.

    The news had seemingly driven the entire ind to insanity.

    Topete for the Martial Dao Will fragments, everyone was fighting fiercely and ruthlessly. The intense fighting dyed the sky crimson, and even one or two-revolution Golden Core experts easily lost their lives.

    In front of Martial Dao Will fragments, even experts in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm were ineffective as deterrents. One person might not be able to deal with them, but what about tens, or even over a hundred eighth and ninth-level Core Formation realm experts?

    Most importantly, everyone knew that after the sessive appearance of eight Martial Dao Will fragments, there might not be many more in the future. These eight fragments could very well be the only ones avable.

    Chen Fan also coveted the Martial Dao Will fragments. However, since he was a lone ranger, by the time the information reached him, the fight for the Martial Dao Will fragments had alsoe to an end. The eight Martial Dao Will fragments already fell into the hands of their respective owners.

    The people who had obtained them were the top few figures among the geniuses who entered the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    This underscored the crucial importance of strength at this juncture.

    Without strength, participating in thepetition for the Martial Dao Will fragments would have been pointless. At the most, they could only act as cannon fodders.

    Everyone was waiting for the ninth or even the tenth fragment to appear. Now that the top group had secured their fragments, the remaining geniuses would contest for all the fragments toe.

    If the top elites were to seize multiple fragments, it would provoke widespread outrage. Not even the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Prince Li Yao could fight them all.

    Therefore, the top figures wouldn¡¯t fight for the Martial Dao Will fragments that might appear next. It was the first-rate geniuses¡¯ turn topete.

    Chen Fan shared this resolve, determined to get his hand on the next Martial Dao Will fragment. He understood that many would integrate the fragment into their bodies toprehend its Martial Dao Will.

    However, if he did that, he would be walking on a pathid down by others. His growth potential wouldn¡¯t be great then.

    He intended to draw on its power for reference, preserving the potential to develop his own unique Martial Dao Will eventually.

    Selfprehended paths aligned more closely with individual strengths. The potential for future development was also greater.

    Under the expectant gazes of numerous people, news of the appearance of the ninth Martial Dao Will fragment finally reached Chen Fan¡¯s ears.

    Chen Fan immediately unfurled his Wings of Rain Dragon. He pushed his speed to its limits as he raced toward the site where the fragment was rumored to be found¡ªa ruin on Hidden Dragon Ind.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill them all! The Martial Dao Will fragment is mine!¡±

    Battle cries echoed through space.

    Over a hundred experts were fighting in the middle of the ruined site. Various cultivation techniques and martial skills flew across the sky. Treasures flew and danced around. It was simply like a fierce Asura battlefield.

    Rather than reveal himself immediately, Chen Fan observed the chaotic scene from a distance, unable to suppress a sense of astonishment.

    ¡°The battle is even fiercer than I imagined!¡±

    He saw two alliance forces fighting fiercely on the ruined site and one of them was none other than the Flying Eagle Alliance.

    The Flying Eagle Alliance¡¯s side was relying on thebat strengths of the two powerful three-revolution Golden Core experts, Liu Xin and Luo Qian, to swiftly dominate their opponents.

    However, Chen Fan found it strange that he couldn¡¯t find Xiao Zhen in the Flying Eagle Alliance.

    Right now, on the Hidden Dragon Ind, there were dozens of alliances. These alliances ranged from powerful entities like Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance to smaller groupsposed of sixth or seventh-level Core Formation realm experts, whose influence was minimal.

    Very soon, the alliance that was battling against the Flying Eagle Alliance recognized that they were no match and withdrew.

    Although Martial Dao Will fragments were precious, their lives held greater value than any treasure.

    What was the use of obtaining a Martial Dao Will fragment if it cost them their lives?

 Chapter 545 - Have it Back!

    <h4>Chapter 545 - Have it Back!</h4>

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Before Chen Fan could react, an ax came flying toward him, slicing through the air with swift momentum and arriving in an instant.

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure flickered, dodging the attack instantly.

    The massive battle-ax struck the spot where he had just stood, causing a loud rumble as the ground shook and a huge crack formed.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned slightly cold. The sneak attack had nearly split him in half; it was a cowardly attack.

    He looked up and saw that the attacker was Aguda, the withered man dressed in beast fur from the Flying Eagle Alliance.

    ¡°We meet again, little bastard.¡± Aguda stared coldly at Chen Fan. He slowly walked to his battle-ax and grabbed at the empty air, picking up his weapon. He emitted an iparably fierce killing intent.

    ¡°I spared your worthless life thest time because of Brother Luo Qian, but you simply refuse to change. Did you think you could wait for the Infinite Alliance and us to weaken each other, and then take advantage?

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, since that¡¯s your n, I shall take your worthless life today. Go repent in hell!¡±

    Aguda twisted his waist and hurled the battle-ax at Chen Fan. The ax sliced through the air with a terrifying force, creating a storm as it flew toward him with incredible speed.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned cold. Looking at the oing battle-ax, a cold light burst from his eyes. He raised his arm and caught the weapon.

    ¡°What?¡± Aguda was inplete disbelief. He had used almost all of his two-revolution Golden Core realm strength to throw the ax.

    Let alone someone at the ninth level, even a one-revolution Golden Core expert could not catch his battle-ax with their bare hands.

    Aguda¡¯s expression changed drastically as nefarious qi surged from him, feeling deeply humiliated. He waved his hand, wanting to snatch his battle-ax back from Chen Fan¡¯s hand.

    A wisp of his true primeval energy connected him to his battle-ax like a thread, allowing him to control it as easily as his own limb.

    Unexpectedly, he couldn¡¯t shake the ax in the slightest. No matter how hard Aguda tried to maneuver it or channel his qi to retrieve his battle-ax, it was useless.

    His expression darkenedpletely.

    He remembered that Chen Fan had said that killing him was even easier than ughtering poultry. He had thought Chen Fan was only spouting nonsense.

    But now, it was clear Chen Fan wasn¡¯t joking. It exined how he had killed Aguda¡¯s mount with a single palm strike.

    ¡°You want it?¡± Chen Fan taunted, seeing Aguda¡¯s flushed face and strained neck. Mockery glinted in his eyes. ¡°Have it back!¡±

    With that, Chen Fan flung his arm, sending the battle-ax hurtling back at an even greater speed. It tore through the air like a bolt of lightning, apanied by a gust of wind.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Aguda immediately roared, sensing a deathly aura. He channeled his cultivation and unleashed his true primeval, wanting to block the attack.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Fresh blood sttered, and flesh and bone were strewn about. Therge battle-ax split Aguda in half, blood spurting like a fountain. His intestines and organs scattered across the ground.

    Up until his death, Aguda couldn''t believe he had been killed by Chen Fan with a casual throw. It was as if he were made of butter or tofu, cut down in an instant.

    ¡°It¡¯s you, Chen Fan. What are you trying to do? Are you opposing our Flying Eagle Alliance?¡± Luo Qian¡¯s furious roar nearly shattered the universe. He never expected Chen Fan to kill Aguda instantly right under his nose.

    Although Luo Qian did not care for Aguda¡¯s life or death, he was still a member of the Flying Eagle Alliance and one of its main forces. By killing Aguda, Chen Fan had essentially pped Luo Qian in the face, leaving him reeling.

    He never expected Chen Fan to be so horrifyingly strong, that even Aguda could not withstand a single move. He finally understood that Xiao Zhen wasn¡¯t lying. Chen Fan was indeed no weaker than Xiao Zhen.

    It was no wonder Chen Fan was so arrogant and fearless when confronting Aguda.

    ¡°It¡¯s him!¡± Liu Xin also saw Chen Fan and recognized him at once.

    Although Xiao Zhen had brought Chen Fan to the Flying Eagle Alliance, like Luo Qian, she had attached no importance to Chen Fan due to hisparatively weak cultivation.

    Later, she heard that Chen Fan had caused a bit of a scene and broke off rtions with the Flying Eagle Alliance, never to be seen again. She hadn¡¯t cared at the time.

    Now, the members of the Flying Eagle Alliance turned to look at Chen Fan with hostility.

    Chen Fan had killed their alliance¡¯s main force, Aguda, before them while they were risking their lives to get the ninth Martial Dao Will fragment from the Infinite Alliance members.

    Moreover, he had been hiding, trying to y the role of the oriole behind the mantis to snatch the fruit of their victory. No matter how they looked at it, Chen Fan was not on their side.

    Facing the hostile gazes, Chen Fan showed no fear at all. He said with an indifferent look, ¡°It¡¯s very simple. He tried to kill me, so I killed him instead. Can¡¯t you tell?¡±

    Chen Fan walked slowly to the center of the site, as if the dozens of members of the Flying Eagle Alliance weren¡¯t there, calmly approaching the crowd.

    ¡°You want to make an enemy out of our Flying Eagle Alliance, huh? I let you go on ount of Xiao Zhen back then. You should know your ce!¡± Luo Qian said coldly, murderous qi spreading.

    ¡°Making an enemy out of your Flying Eagle Alliance?¡± Chen Fan mocked with a cold smile. ¡°So what if I am? And let me go? Did I need your mercy? You and Aguda are no different to me¡ªnothing but trash!¡±

    Chen Fan shifted his indifferent gaze from Luo Qian to the palm-sized Martial Dao Will fragment floating in the air in the middle of the ruins. Faint Dao runes were emanating from it, giving off a mysterious fluctuation.

    He knew that this was the object he had to obtain at all costs.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be taking this Martial Dao Will fragment as a token of your apology!¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, his tone carrying an irresistible meaning.

    ¡°How dare you!¡± Luo Qian flew into a rage upon hearing this!

    The Flying Eagle Alliance had received the news early and quickly rushed over. After fighting a bitter battle and repelling a couple of alliances, they finally obtained this Martial Dao Will fragment.

    Now, Chen Fan was iming it without hesitation. To Luo Qian, this was like having his flesh cut off; he couldn''t ept it.

 Chapter 546 - Crushed One-Sidedly

    <h4>Chapter 546 - Crushed One-Sidedly</h4>

    Liu Xin said in an icy tone, ¡°Chen Fan, we got this after a bitter fight, and you think you can just im it? That''s uneptable!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s arrogance was infuriating. He had just pped his lips and dered that the Martial Dao Will fragment, acquired through their hard-fought battle, would be his,pletely disregarding the Flying Eagle Alliance. Did he think he was Li Yao!

    ¡°You and I are both well aware of this Martial Dao Will fragment value. If you let me take it, the grudge between the Flying Eagle Alliance and me will be settled. Moreover, treasures belong to the capable. I think I¡¯m more qualified than you to have this,¡± Chen Fan said calmly.

    Those words alone immediately infuriated the nearby Flying Eagle Alliance members.

    ¡°Treasures belong to the capable, huh? Are you worthy of this Martial Dao Will fragment?¡± Luo Qian smiled in anger and the cold killing intent in his eyes immediately burst out.

    He turned into a streak of light as he rushed toward Chen Fan and arrived before him in a sh.

    ¡°I shall teach you today what this proverb means! You thought you could spout such arrogant nonsense after killing Aguda? How foolish of you! Today, no one in heaven or earth can save you! Even if Xiao Zhen were here, you would still die!¡±

    Immense killing intent filled the sky, making the heavens and earth shiver with its cold intensity.

    A sword appeared in Luo Qian¡¯s hand. He instantly sent out terrifying sword lights, tearing through heaven and earth. As it flew toward Chen Fan, it seemed like it could even rend the universe.

    Luo Qian had pushed his three-revolution Golden Core cultivation to the limit. And since he was furious and needed to vent his anger, his aura rose a notch higher.

    ¡°You want to kill me? A three-revolution Golden Core trash like you? You must think you are strong with that cultivation, but I¡¯ll teach you what strength is today!¡±

    Chen Fan raised his eyebrow in the face of Luo Qian¡¯s attack. A fierce light instantly shot out from his eyes as he channeled his cultivation.

    Immediately, a fierce gale rushed out from him, rippling through the space.

    Under the sunlight, Chen Fan looked like a heavenly god. He raised his hand and grabbed at the terrifying sword lights as if even space itself was within his grasp.

    His horrifying strength instantly burst forth, confining the space.

    The falling sword lights were instantly restrained, held by Chen Fan through the void. Loud explosions rang out as the sword lights crumbled.

    ¡°Truth be told, if not for Xiao Zhen, I would have ughtered you earlier. You wouldn¡¯t have gotten the chance to act so arrogantly then. You think you¡¯re important because you¡¯re in the three-revolution Golden Core realm? In front of me, you¡¯re just an ant!¡±

    Chen Fan crushed Luo Qian¡¯s sword lights and strode forth. The space between them had seemingly shrunk as he was in front of Luo Qian instantly and unleashed a palm strike.

    To Luo Qian, this light palm strike felt like the demon god¡¯s hand, making his face contort in fear. He could sense the terrifying force in the air, threatening to crush him to powder.

    Luo Qian quickly tapped his feet, pulling away and barely dodging Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike.

    ¡°Well, it seems like I misjudged you. No wonder you could kill Aguda so easily!¡± Luo Qian said, looking coldly at Chen Fan, ¡°Xiao Zhen was right when he said you¡¯re not any weaker than him. I see now¡ªyou¡¯ve truly hidden your strength well!¡±

    Luo Qian hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to be this terrifying despite his rtively low cultivation level. Chen Fan wasn¡¯t any weaker than him, which exined why Xiao Zhen called him brother and treated him with such importance.

    He couldn¡¯t see that earlier, so he couldn¡¯t help but feel that Chen Fan had taken him for a ride.

    ¡°Nheless, you will die here today. I¡¯ll show you how terrifying three-revolution Golden Core experts are and how foolish are your words and behavior! Making an enemy out of our Flying Eagle Alliance is the biggest mistake of your life!¡±

    Luo Qian unleashed an iparably powerful aura as he charged toward Chen Fan. Sword lights filled the sky, spreading across the space like moonlight and resembling terrifying storm dragons.

    Facing Luo Qian¡¯s frenzied attack, Chen Fan remained unfazed.

    ¡°Pathetic! You clearly have no idea¡ªchallenging me has sealed your fate! Annihte!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura suddenly soared, and terrifying hurricanes erupted between heaven and earth, tearing through the area.

    Striding forth imposingly, Chen Fan walked toward Luo Qian¡¯s sword light, oozing tyranny. He was like an invincible god of war, smashing everything in his path with overwhelming momentum.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A deafening noise erupted as a massive wave of qi surged forth, reminiscent of the universe¡¯s primal chaos being annihted.

    <i>Swoosh, tch!</i>

    Luo Qian¡¯s expression turned cold. He was just about tounch an even fiercer attack when all of a sudden, a terrifying streak of halberd light sliced through the rolling storm and flew toward him.

    Luo Qian felt as if he had been doused with icy water from head to toe, plummeting from the clouds into the depths of hell.

    A deathly aura enveloped him instantly, and the sound of the grim reaper¡¯s summons echoed in his ears.

    Luo Qian subconsciously raised his arm, holding his sword horizontally in front of him to defend himself.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    Next, Luo Qian felt an overwhelming force, akin to a volcanic eruption, attacking him. The impact broke his hands, and he crashed into the ground like a deted balloon.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The earth shook violently before a thousand-foot-tall cloud of dust rose.

    The ce was already a ruin, and the fight was like another disaster, which turned it into dust and smoke.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan stood proudly in the air, holding the Purgatory Divine Halberd. Despite the terrifying storms raging around him, they couldn¡¯te within thirty feet of him.

    The sunlight bathed him, adding a golden glow that made him appear even more majestic like a heavenly god descended to the mortal world to punish evil.

    ¡°<i>Cough, cough</i>!¡±

    Coughing sounds came from the ruins below.

    A silhouette staggered up, unsteady and spewing fresh blood from his mouth, hisplexion ghastly white. His aura waned, and his legs were trembling, soft as noodles.

    Who else could it be if not Luo Qian?

    The nearby Flying Eagle Alliance members were stunned, petrified by the sight.

    Their number two figure, a supreme expert in the three-revolution Golden Core realm, had been defeated so miserably by Chen Fan.

    None of them dared to believe this was true. They looked at Chen Fan as if they were looking at a freak.

    They knew how powerful Luo Qian, the vice-alliance leader of the Flying Eagle Alliance, was. Knowing him so well was what had made Chen Fan''s earlier words seem ridiculous and infuriating to them.

    Chen Fan had actually dared to speak so arrogantly in front of their Flying Eagle Alliance. He was simply looking to die.

    However, reality had delivered a harsh p in their faces.

    The number two figure of their Flying Eagle Alliance was utterly powerless against Chen Fan and had been instantly defeated.

 Chapter 547 - Collecting the Will Fragment

    <h4>Chapter 547 - Collecting the Will Fragment</h4>

    The Flying Eagle Alliance members stood frozen, their eyes trembling in disbelief.

    In their hearts, Luo Qian was an iparably powerful existence, yet he had been defeated.

    Chen Fan shed down from the sky with his halberd. It created arge crater in the ground, making Luo Qian spewrge mouthfuls of fresh blood.

    This had far exceeded their expectations.

    In their minds, it should have been the other way around.

    Chen Fan ignored their shock. He nced at Luo Qian, who struggled to stand and was still unsteady on his feet. Then, he struck down with his palm, causing the winds and clouds to swirl and the sky to darken.

    He never showed mercy to those who tried to kill him.

    Luo Qian sensed the terrifying force descending and his face filled with fear.

    He knew death was imminent. Chen Fan was truly going to kill him without mercy.

    He forcibly channeled a mouthful of true primeval. His sword erupted with a terrifying light as he shed toward the sky.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their attacks collided, unleashing waves of energy that spread outward.

    The shockwave hit Luo Qian and threw him back, worsening his injuries.

    Liu Xin finally made her move. She rushed over. Her aqua blue sword shone with a clear and crystalline sword qi that swept over.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Chen Fan''s eyes widened and his aura burst forth, sweeping through the surrounding space.

    He directly resisted theyers of sword qi. The air currents became chaotic, producing humming sounds.

    ¡°You wish to die as well?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent gaze fell on Liu Xin, his voice emotionless and icy. Though he didn''t exude killing intent, his words were filled with it.

    Liu Xin met Chen Fan¡¯s icy gaze. Her irises shrank violently, and her heart trembled. She felt like she was facing a grim reaper intent on taking lives.

    Despite her stunning beauty, to Chen Fan, she was likely nothing more than a sack of skin. He felt nopassion for her.

    ¡°Since you want this Martial Dao Will fragment, we¡¯ll give it to you. Our Flying Eagle Alliance will surrender it. I hope this will settle any debts or grudges between us,¡± Liu Xin said, her only desire being to save Luo Qian now.

    Behind her, Luo Qian was seething with anger, but he knew she was right.

    Chen Fan was powerful. Without fighting him, no one would ever expect someone at the ninth level to be strong enough to crush a three-revolution Golden Core supreme expert.

    If he dared to refute her words, only death awaited him.

    Luo Qian felt very conflicted. He was the Sky Rock Empire¡¯s strongest from the younger generation, considered peerless. Although he couldn¡¯t be considered one of the strongest across the Hong Domain, he was definitely a first-rate expert.

    However, Chen Fan shattered his lofty pride, forcing them to surrender the Martial Dao Will fragment to save his life. He didn¡¯t want to give it up, but to save his hide, he had to swallow this indignity. His only hope was to seek revenge in the future.

    As for Chen Fan, he couldn¡¯t care less about that weakling. Three-revolution Golden Core realm experts only amounted to that in front of him.

    ¡°Alright, on ount of Xiao Zhen, I¡¯ll give you this much courtesy. But if you guyse to find trouble with me again, then don¡¯t me me for being ruthless,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, looking at Liu Xin.

    Luo Qian sighed in relief. He had been afraid that Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t agree to it and kill him. Although Liu Xin was stronger than Luo Qian, she still wouldn¡¯t have been a match for Chen Fan.

    And the idea of teaming up with the Flying Eagle Alliance members to confront Chen Fan was unrealistic. Everyone knew how terrifying Chen Fan was; only a fool would volunteer to be cannon fodder.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan agreed to the proposition. Luo Qian managed to save his life, but the humiliation he felt was undeniable.

    ¡°Rest assured, if we see you again, we will take the long way around,¡± Liu Xin said, not dragging her feet.

    Her enemy¡¯s strength smothered any resentment she felt. She understood that if she had attacked him, their entire Flying Eagle Alliance likely would have been wiped out.

    On the Hidden Dragon Ind, their sect seniors weren¡¯t around to back them up. They would have died pointless deaths.

    She also felt deep apprehension toward him, believing Chen Fan had yed the part of an ordinary cultivator too well. When he followed Xiao Zhen to the Flying Eagle Alliance previously, his act had deceived them all.

    Chen Fan appeared harmless but was a tiger in sheep¡¯s clothing. When he bared his fangs, even a three-revolution Golden Core supreme expert would fear him.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Xiao Zhen? Why didn¡¯t hee with you?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    Liu Xin¡¯s expression changed slightly, but she still answered, ¡°He¡¯s already left the Flying Eagle Alliance.

    This answer was within Chen Fan¡¯s expectations.

    Xiao Zhen had a candid and generous personality, but Luo Qian was arrogant and draconian. He probably couldn¡¯t deal with Luo Qian and chose to leave in the end.

    Chen Fan did not dwell on this matter. He instantly appeared next to the Martial Dao Will fragment, as if teleporting, and reached out for it.

    <i>C!</i>

    Although the Martial Dao Will fragment looked ordinary, it was exceptionally sharp. He had an incredibly tough physique, yet its auracerated his palm, making it bleed.

    The Flying Eagle Alliance members couldn¡¯t help but gloat.

    The Martial Dao Will fragment wasn¡¯t an ordinary ss shard; it was the energy cultivated by a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse.

    Although it was only a remnant of it, with no consciousness, it was unusually sharp. No one would try to grab it with their hands.

    ¡°This guy¡¯s really a dolt. I mean, who does that? Grabbing it with his bare hand? Does he think he is an immortal?¡±

    ¡°I know! That¡¯s a Heavenly Star realm expert¡¯s willpower. Even though it¡¯s just a part of it, its aura can easily tear a Core Formation realm expert apart. It can only be collected with a treasure.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, I really hope he gets torn apart by the Martial Dao Will fragment.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan turned a deaf ear to the Flying Eagle Alliance members¡¯ murmuring. Looking at the sharp aura emanated by the Martial Dao Will fragment, his eyes flickered.

    Just because others couldn¡¯t collect the fragment directly didn¡¯t mean he couldn¡¯t either. His physique wasparable to a Grade-3 or 4 treasure.

    ¡°Rise!¡±

    Chen Fan channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. His palm became as hard as steel, filled with an oppressive force, as he grabbed the Martial Dao Will fragment again.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    An even sharper aura erupted from the Martial Dao Will fragment and pounded against Chen Fan¡¯s steel palm. Sparks immediately flew everywhere, leaving the onlookers nonplussed.

 Chapter 548 - Famous Overnight

    <h4>Chapter 548 - Famous Overnight</h4>

    The nearby Flying Eagle Alliance members were all dumbstruck as they watched the aura trying to resist Chen Fan¡¯s palm. Sparks flew everywhere and loud clunks rang out.

    It actually looked like the fragment¡¯s aura was fighting a steel te. Just how horrifyingly tough was his physique? He was simply like a god or a devil.

    The people¡¯s gazes toward Chen Fan changed once more, viewing him as a freak of nature.

    Chen Fan ignored the crowd. His true primeval surged like the Yangtze River as he channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the limit. ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, retrieve!¡±

    No one understood his situation better than himself.

    To the crowd, he looked like a god or a devil, but only he knew how sharp and terrifying the Martial Dao Will fragment was.

    Despite channeling the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the limit, the sharp aura still cut through his steel palm and rushed into him, wreaking havoc.

    It felt like a knife had entered him and was trying to cut his meridians, flesh, and blood.

    Chen Fan thought that even if Myriad Elephants Divine Art advanced to the fifteenthyer, reachingplete mastery, it would not be easy for him to retrieve the Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands.

    ¡°What an incredible physique he has! It¡¯s no wonder he could trounce Luo Qian. What a monster!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? It really looks like the Martial Dao Will fragment is fighting a steel te and not a human palm. Unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid he would be the first person in history to retrieve a Martial Dao Will fragment bare-handed. We¡¯re witnessing the birth of a miracle.¡±

    ¡°Look, he picked up the Martial Dao Will fragment. It¡¯s over.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan picked up the Martial Dao Will fragment. Even though the sharp aura had cut his flesh, making him bleed, he did not frown.

    He did not stay here any longer. He turned into a blur, turned into a streak of light, and disappeared into the horizon.

    The Flying Eagle Alliance members stood dumbfounded for a while.

    ¡°That physique of his... Is it really a human¡¯s body? Did he not transfer his consciousness into the body of some kind of demon god?¡±

    ¡°That is too scary. Once he is at the one-revolution level, I¡¯m afraid his strength will beparable to those few at the top. Who could stand against him then?¡±

    ¡°With that kind of power, he truly deserves to be called a supreme expert of the younger generation.¡±

    ¡°No one has ever dared to try grabbing a Martial Dao Will fragment with their bare hands. The fact that he even seeded is simply unimaginable.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan had left with the Martial Dao Will fragment. Although the Flying Eagle Alliance members were gnashing their teeth in anger, no one dared to chase after him, as even their vice alliance leader, Luo Qian, had been defeated.

    Their alliance leader, Liu Xin, also showed no intention of starting a fight with him. It was clear that even if they banded together, they wouldn¡¯t be able to defeat him.

    Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming strength was deeply imprinted in their hearts.

    ......

    News of the ninth Martial Dao Will fragment appearing quickly drew the attention of countless people on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    More information came from the mouths of the Flying Eagle Alliance members soon.

    Someone named Chen Fan, some brat at the ninth level, had taken the will fragment. Owing to that, his name also became known to everyone overnight.

    After all, the Flying Eagle Alliance had two three-revolution Golden Core experts even without Xiao Zhen. Their overall strength wasn¡¯t considered weak among the various forces on Hidden Dragon Ind. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have been able to repel a couple of forces and seize the Martial Dao Will fragment.

    Yet, Chen Fan had snatched the fragment from them, and they dared not stop him.

    The news quickly shook the entire Hidden Dragon Ind, causing a major stir.

    It soon came to light that despite being only at thete stage of the ninth level, Chen Fan had decisively defeated the three-revolution Golden Core expert Luo Qian.

    If Liu Xin, the alliance leader, hadn¡¯t intervened and offered the Martial Dao Will Fragment as a token of apology, Luo Qian would have been killed.

    The question arose: what kind of strength would one need to subdue the entire Flying Eagle Alliance single-handedly?

    Chen Fan quickly earned a reputation as a lone expert in the eyes of many.

    The revtion that he had seized the Martial Dao Will Fragment with his bare hands and seeded created an even bigger sensation, given the fragment¡¯s terrifying nature.

    Li Yao had taken the first will, but even he hadn¡¯t dared to grab it with his bare hands. However, Chen Fan, a ninth-level Core Formation realm expert, did just that and seeded.

    What kind of abilities did this require?

    What kind of a physique?

    Chen Fan grew even more mysterious and powerful in the crowd¡¯s eyes.

    This also sparked greed in many people.

    After all, Chen Fan was a lone ranger. Without any helper, it seemed appealing to try to snatch the Martial Dao Will fragment from him.

    Naturally, those entertaining such thoughts were top experts with four-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation or higher.

    Those weaker than them had no such ideas. If they went to find Chen Fan, they would only be dying in vain.

    Chen Fan did not pay attention to the others¡¯ reactions. After taking the fragment, he had quickly found a ce and went into seclusion toprehend the powers contained within the fragment.

    Using a Martial Dao Will Fragment to understand Martial Dao Will was considered a shortcut.

    Chen Fan did not intend to do so, however. He aimed to grasp the secrets within the fragment, achieve an understanding, and then slowly develop his own Martial Dao Will.

    The Martial Dao Will fragment was a primer that would help him step on the path ofprehending his own Martial Dao Will.

    While Chen Fan studied the fragment in seclusion, some people were searching for him, aiming to seize the Martial Dao Will Fragment in his possession.

    After all, no matter how one looked at it, Chen Fan was the weakest among those who had obtained a Martial Dao Will fragment.

    Even though he had snatched the Martial Dao Will fragment from the Flying Eagle Alliance, deterring some restless people and forces, not everyone was discouraged. Many forces were stronger than the Flying Eagle Alliance.

    Of course, even more people were continuing their search for other Martial Dao Will fragments, hoping for the tenth fragment to appear.

    However, as the days passed, there wasn''t any more news of another Martial Dao Will fragment.

    Thus, everyone realized that all the Martial Dao Will fragments had likely already appeared.

    With a total of nine fragments, if anyone wanted to obtain one, they needed to seize it from the forces or experts in possession of one.

 Chapter 549 - Major Reshuffle of Powers

    <h4>Chapter 549 - Major Reshuffle of Powers</h4>

    Ten days have passed since Chen Fan went into seclusion.

    He had spent that time trying toprehend the powers within the Martial Dao Will fragment.

    At first, he was like a headless fly, flying around aimlessly. He was not in a hurry, however. He calmed his mind and slowly tried toprehend it.

    Though he hadn¡¯t gained much rity yet, he had begun to grasp something vague. In the meantime, his cultivation surprisingly advanced on its own, reaching the peak of the ninth level.

    During these ten days, the entire Hidden Dragon Ind had been thrown into chaos, with battles erupting everywhere due to the Martial Dao Will fragments.

    The fragment could decide their future achievement in the path of martial arts, so all the geniuses wanted it.

    They couldn¡¯t fully utilize the fragments right away. However, integrating it into their bodies would nt a seed of Martial Dao Will that would enhance their understanding of the martial path.

    There were a thousand people on the ind but only nine Martial Dao Will fragments; it was far from an embarrassment of riches. Thepetition to seize one led to fierce battles.

    These fights uncovered many experts who had been concealing their strengths. During the struggle for the fragments, numerous four and five-revolution Golden Core experts surfaced.

    Of the nine fragments, all fragments except two, the one Chen Fan had and the one Li Yao had, changed hands numerous times under the siege of numerous alliances and experts. Many died before the situation finally stabilized.

    Almost all the fragment owners were now at least six-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    However, even while the ind was embroiled in numerous battles, the other geniuses did not give up on searching for opportunities to raise their cultivation. That coupled with the fact the ind¡¯s environment was superb for cultivation helped improve many people¡¯s cultivation.

    Take Gongsun Zhong, Ye Cangxuan, and the others, for example. They were already experts in the five-revolution Golden Core realm; in just fifteen days, they reached the six-revolution Golden Core realm, bing nearly as strong as Li Yao.

    With such rapid improvements across the board, thepetition for the fragments became even more intense.

    Chen Fan remained a key target since his Martial Dao Will fragment was the easiest to retrieve among the nine. However, since he had gone into seclusion, no one knew his whereabouts.

    Many tried to find him, but none could even catch a glimpse of him.

    Consequently, those who had nned to confront Chen Fan shifted their focus, joining forces with others topete for the remaining fragments.

    As ten days of brutal conflict passed, Chen Fan remained in seclusion, oblivious to the chaos outside.

    The numerous battles saw many alliances and forces disbanding and getting destroyed, but that only made space for new ones to emerge.

    The Flying Eagle Alliance had disbanded amidst this chaotic warfare. After a heated argument between alliance leader Liu Xin and vice alliance leader Luo Qian, Liu Xin went her separate way, while Luo Qian and his followers joined the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance was a powerful, new force that emerged amid the upheaval on Hidden Dragon Ind. Their leader, Yin Jiu, was the Blue Mist Empire¡¯s top genius of the younger generation.

    Yin Jiu had recently advanced to the six-revolution Golden Core realm and recruited a group of extraordinary experts. Rumors had it that his two vice alliance leaders were in the five-revolution Golden Core realm and were terrifyingly strong.

    Chen Fan knew that this war for the Martial Dao Will fragments would bring about a huge reshuffle of powers on the ind, and it definitely wouldn¡¯t be thest.

    The hundred-day trial had only just begun, and with ongoing exploration and the discovery of new treasures, even fiercer battles were on the horizon.

    He could imagine that once a supreme treasure appeared, the various forces on the ind would try to snatch it. That would lead to conflicts as intense as those over the Martial Dao Will fragments.

    Chen Fan did not want to get involved in these power struggles. His goal was to explore the Hidden Dragon Ind, hunt demonic beasts with divine dragon bloodlines, and refine them to strengthen his physique.

    Although the Hidden Dragon Ind was destroyed three thousand years ago, with many of its buildings reduced to ruins and treasures plundered by demonic cultivators, fragments of its former glory remained.

    After Chen Fan emerged from his seclusion, he paid little attention to the ind¡¯s upheavals.

    Although he knew many people were searching for him, Chen Fan couldn''t remain in hiding forever. He didn¡¯t want to waste these precious days.

    He soon went out to explore the depths of the ind and encountered Xiao Zhen.

    ¡°Brother Chen Fan, I truly didn¡¯t expect to meet you here.¡± Xiao Zhen was ecstatic to see Chen Fan.

    A rare smile also blossomed on Chen Fan¡¯s face. He said, ¡°Why are you here? I heard you left the Flying Eagle Alliance. What happened?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all because of Luo Qian, that tyrant. He was forming cliques and pulling strings topete for power. If not for Liu Xin, I would have ughtered him long ago. I just left to avoid putting her in an awkward situation.¡± Xiao Zhen shrugged, expressing his disdain for Luo Qian.

    ¡°But I heard that the Flying Eagle Alliance has disbanded. Luo Qian joined the Battle Heaven Alliance with some of his cronies.

    ¡°Forget it, let¡¯s not talk about him. Chen Fan, you, on the other hand, have be quite the celebrity. I hear your name everywhere. You¡¯re about to be public enemy number one. Many people are looking for you.

    ¡°<i>Tsk, tsk. </i>You¡¯re really a monster, you know? Grabbing a Martial Dao Will Fragment with your bare hands... It¡¯s not something ordinary people can do. Only a monster like you can pull it off. It really gave people a heart attack.

    ¡°By the way, where have you been hiding? People have turned the ind upside down looking for you, but no one could find you. Someone even spread the word that they woulde to take your life as soon as you show yourself.¡± Xiao Zhen chuckled, as candid as ever, and gave Chen Fan a brief overview of the situation on the ind.

    Chen Fan shrugged and replied, ¡°After I obtained the Martial Dao Will fragment, I found a ce and entered seclusion toprehend it. I lost track of time and only just came out. Now, I¡¯m about to head into the depths to search for opportunities.¡±

    ¡°Then you have to be careful. After the major reshuffle of powers on the ind, five dominant alliances have emerged, each led by a six-revolution Golden Core expert. I heard that one of those five, the Battle Heaven Alliance, has dered they are searching for you everywhere, demanding you hand over your Martial Dao Will Fragment,¡± Xiao Zhen said, his expression slightly grave.

    Obviously, the Battle Heaven Alliance was not to be messed with.

 Chapter 550 - Nie Tao

    <h4>Chapter 550 - Nie Tao</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered upon hearing Xiao Zhen.

    Although he was now at the peak of the ninth level and should be able to exchange blows with a four-revolution Golden Core realm expert, he likely couldn¡¯t defeat them.

    So, being targeted by an alliance with a six-revolution Golden Core expert was bad, bad news for him.

    ¡°Did they get no Martial Dao Will fragment?¡± Chen Fan asked doubtfully.

    A total of nine Martial Dao Will fragments appeared on the Hidden Dragon Ind. Powerful demonic beasts snatched three of them, and the rest ended up with human martial artists.

    Chen Fan''s fragment was hidden since he was in seclusion, and one was with Li Yao. This meant that the remaining five fragments had sparked fierce and tragic battles.

    In that fight, many of the old alliances were destroyed, and new alliances rose to prominence. The Battle Heaven Alliance was one of those new alliances and was one of the five strongest alliances.

    Logically, they should have secured a Martial Dao Will Fragment. If they had one, why would they still want his?

    Xiao Zhen chuckled and said, ¡°You hit the nail on the head. The Battle Heaven Alliance is the only one among the five strongest alliances to not obtain a Martial Dao Will fragment. So naturally, they¡¯re after yours. Compared to the other forces, your fragment is the easiest to take.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered in astonishment. It was astounding that such a powerful force failed to obtain a fragment.

    Xiao Zhen exined, ¡°As you know, of the nine fragments, humans only have six. If you remove the one Li Yao has, there are really only five fragments that others can fight for.

    ¡°And then if we exclude yours too, there will only be four left. However, there are five top alliances: Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance, Myriad Truths Alliance, Battle Heaven Alliance, Saber Sword Alliance, and Goddess Alliance. Aside from the Battle Heaven Alliance, the three top alliances, Myriad Truths Alliance, Saber Sword Alliance, and Goddess Alliance, each managed to obtain a Martial Dao Will fragment.

    ¡°They could have taken thest fragment had it not fallen into the hands of an extremely mysterious expert. It¡¯s said that he¡¯s a young Daoist, but he isn¡¯t any weaker than Li Yao.¡± [1]

    A figure appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s mind. It was that young, mysterious Daoist he had met on the sea.

    The Daoist had given him a mysterious, unfathomable feeling. Chen Fan didn¡¯t expect him to obtain one of the Martial Dao Will fragments in this fight, disying extremely terrifying strength.

    ¡°So, the other Martial Dao Will fragments are simply out of the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s reach. Do you understand now why you are being targeted by them?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded.

    Among the six Martial Dao Will fragments in human martial artists¡¯ possession, the other five owners were all very powerful.

    Even that lone Daoist was terrifyingly powerful and wasparable to Li Yao. It was simply impossible for others to snatch it from him.

    Although he made a name for himself in one battle, defeating Luo Qian, he was not worth mentioning in the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s eyes. Thus, Chen Fan also wouldn¡¯t be taken seriously by the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    ¡°Weakness is truly an original sin. But that¡¯s fine. If the Battle Heaven Alliance wants to take my Martial Dao Will fragment, they will have to prove themselves.¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid. Although the Battle Heaven Alliance was very powerful, he wasn¡¯t weak either.

    Even if Chen Fan encountered five or six revolution Golden Core experts, they wouldn¡¯t be able to kill him even though he was no match for them.

    Moreover, having pressure on him would motivate him to cultivate harder and improve his cultivation.

    Once he reached one-revolution Golden Core, he knew that hisbat strength would skyrocket. He wouldn¡¯t fear even five-revolution Golden Core experts then.

    After traveling together with Xiao Zhen for some time, they parted ways.

    Chen Fan was a piece of fat meat in many people¡¯s eyes. Although Xiao Zhen wasn¡¯t weak, having reached the four-revolution Golden Core level, he wasn''t top-tier, and Chen Fan didn¡¯t want to drag him into trouble.

    Moreover, he also preferred operating alone. Thus, he simply found an excuse to separate from Xiao Zhen.

    Afterward, Chen Fan headed straight toward the depths of the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    The outer areas had been thoroughly explored, leaving no treasures behind. The only option was to delve deeper.

    Chen Fan shuttled through the mountains and forests, killing plenty of demonic beasts.

    The deeper he went, the moremon it became to encounter beasts with the divine dragon¡¯s bloodline, which greatly lifted his spirits.

    He was looking forward to the Myriad Elephants Divine Art advancing to the fifteenthyer, achievingplete mastery. Then, he could take care of even eight or nine-revolution Golden Core experts, beings just inches away from the Divine Nascent realm.

    Chen Fan suddenly halted his steps and shouted, ¡°Come out!¡±

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    A whistling sound cut through the air, and a silhouette emerged.

    The neer was a youth in his early thirties, slim and handsome, with a cold gaze fixed on Chen Fan.

    ¡°You must be Chen Fan,¡± said the youth indifferently, sizing up Chen Fan.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    ¡°I¡¯m Nie Tao.¡± The youth raised his chin and said loftily, ¡°I¡¯m a vice alliance leader of the Battle Heaven Alliance. You¡¯ve probably heard of us and know why I came to you. I have to admit, you¡¯re good at hiding. Many people have been looking for you without finding a trace.

    ¡°Let¡¯s not waste time. Hand over the Martial Dao Will fragment, and I might let you go. I could even let you join our Battle Heaven Alliance. You¡¯re probably aware that a treasure like the Martial Dao Will fragment isn¡¯t something a ninth-level Core Formation realm like you should possess.

    ¡°Hand it over!¡±

    Nie Tao extended his hand as if the fragment rightfully belonged to him and he was merely reiming it.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow deeply, a cold light flickering in his eyes.

    He didn¡¯t expect the Battle Heaven Alliance to find him so soon. He didn¡¯t suspect Xiao Zhen of betrayal for a moment, knowing Xiao Zhen wasn¡¯t that kind of person.

    ¡°Why are you still hesitating? Are you thinking of running away? How na?ve. Since I found you, you can¡¯t escape. The only thing you can do is to hand over the Martial Dao Will fragment obediently. That¡¯s the sensible choice, you know?

    ¡°Don¡¯t make me take it by force, or you¡¯ll regret it. It¡¯ll be toote by then. Don¡¯t harbor any delusions, either, just because you defeated Luo Qian. It¡¯s not that I¡¯m looking down on you, but I only need one finger to deal with you.¡±

    Nie Tao stretched out a finger and shook it left and right, his attitude contemptuous. He waspletely disregarding Chen Fan.

    1. Reminder that Li Yao is the head of the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance. ?

 Chapter 551 â€“ Disadvantaged

    <h4>Chapter 551 ¨C Disadvantaged</h4>

    Nie Tao¡¯s expression was full of disdain,pletely disregarding Chen Fan.

    It was understandable.

    Although Chen Fan had defeated a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert, Luo Qian, and caused a stir on the ind, Luo Qian was like an ant in front of him.

    Nie Tao was a terrifying expert in the five-revolution Golden Core realm. Comparing the two was likeparing an adult to a child.

    Chen Fan could defeat Luo Qian, but he was no match for Nie Tao.

    Nie Tao had absolute confidence in his ability. Thus, he viewed Chen Fan with no regard, treating him like prey.

    The only sensible option for Chen Fan was to hand over the Martial Dao Will Fragment if he wanted to live.

    ¡°Well? Are you gonna choose life or die for something you will lose anyway? Among the younger generation, you could be considered a first-rate genius. As long as you¡¯re willing toe under our alliance leader¡¯s wings, you will gain far more beneficial things than a Martial Dao Will fragment,¡± Nie Tao said indifferently. He acted like joining the Battle Heaven Alliance and working for them was a blessing Chen Fan had earned from eight lifetimes.

    Nie Tao¡¯s words nearly made Chen Fanugh from anger. He bbered on for so long, but his logic was truly ridiculous. Chen Fan had fought for the Martial Dao Will fragment himself, yet he spoke as if their alliance leader had bestowed it upon him.

    Howughable!

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m not interested in joining your Battle Heaven Alliance,¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for you. Do you know how many people want to join our Battle Heaven Alliance but have no way to do so? Yet you dare to reject the offer?¡± A trace of coldness flickered in Nie Tao¡¯s eyes.

    His main objective was to obtain the Martial Dao Will fragment, but if he could also get Chen Fan to work for them, he would be killing two birds with one stone.

    ¡°Fine, since you¡¯re not willing to join us, I won¡¯t force you. You clearly don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for you. Alright, since you¡¯re not willing to serve the alliance master, hurry up and hand over the Martial Dao Will fragment, then you may leave,¡± Nie Tao said in annoyance.

    Chen Fan stared coldly at Nie Tao, sneered, and said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I will have to disappoint you again. I seized the fragment with my own capabilities, so it is mine. If your Battle Heaven Alliance wants one, go snatch it from the others.¡±

    An iparably chilling intent erupted from Nie Tao. The entire space was about to be frozen over.

    Nie Tao stared at Chen Fan morosely. He said with a tone filled with killing intent, ¡°Do you know what you¡¯re saying?¡±

    Facing Nie Tao¡¯s threat, Chen Fan remained unfazed and said, ¡°What, you didn¡¯t hear me? I said... get lost!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Nie Tao suddenlyughed from extreme anger, his voice shaking the heavens. He stared at Chen Fan with an iparably icy gaze, as if he was looking at a dead man, and said, ¡°Get lost? No one on the Hidden Dragon Ind has dared to say something like that to me.¡±

    ¡°Well, there is a first time for everything,¡± retorted Chen Fan, standing his ground and ignoring Nie Tao¡¯s oppressive aura.

    ¡°Indeed. However, you will have to pay the price for spouting those words, and the price is death! I¡¯ve already given you two chances, but you simply don¡¯t cherish them. Do you really think that I don¡¯t dare to kill you?¡±

    Nie Tao was simply furious.

    As the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s exalted second vice alliance leader, he had personally asked Chen Fan to hand over the Martial Dao Will fragment, even giving him a chance to join them. However, Chen Fan refused his kind offer and even told him to get lost. He was simply asking to die!

    ¡°Kill me? With just you, you¡¯re not qualified!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s irises shrank violently. He immediately channeled his cultivation, erupting with a fierce aura, opposing the auraing from Nie Tao.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The two sharply opposed one another, with neither prepared to give an inch.

    The sh of their auras was enough to make anyone¡¯s scalp tingle. The ancient trees within a thousand-meter radius were caught in the storm and fell.

    ¡°You¡¯ll see if I¡¯m qualified when I take you down!¡± Nie Tao dered. His aura surged violently like a monstrous wave, instantly reaching a peak.

    The space seemed to have sunk, and the air became as heavy as lead. An invisible, oppressive force descended upon Chen Fan. His aura became sluggish.

    Although hisbat strength was nearly on par with four-revolution Golden Core realm experts, Nie Tao was a terrifying expert in the five-revolution Golden Core realm.

    His aura alone could make a three-revolution Golden Core expert turn into jelly and beg for mercy on the ground.

    An overwhelming killing intent surged from Nie Tao. It was incredibly scary.

    The air around Nie Tao instantly became icy. His killing intent rose to the sky, and the power of his true primeval spewed out from the crown of his head. He raised his hand and sent out a palm strike at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Heaven Copsing Palm!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    It seemed like Nie Tao had transformed into an ancient god, making the heavens copse with a gesture.

    Nie Tao¡¯s aura flourished. A terrifying energy spread in all directions.

    The forests shook slightly. The aura of a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert ravaged wildly.

    The Heaven Copsing Palm instantly swept over, and a crushing force spread in the air.

    Chen Fan sensed the terrifying crumbling intent, wanting to reduce him to countless pieces.

    A suffocating pressure struck him.

    He could feel the terrifying strength of a five-revolution Golden Core expert. That, however, didn¡¯t mean he would just sit back and await his death.

    With a roar, he immediately channeled all of his qi and summoned all of his strength. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he shed out to the front.

    The halberd light was like a death ray, instantly tearing apart the space ahead.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    In the next moment, the halberd light and the Heaven Copsing Palm collided violently, causing a huge explosion.

    All kinds of whirlwinds, gales, and hurricanes ravaged wildly, sweeping through heaven and earth and shaking the skies.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A silhouette flew out, knocking over arge swathe of the tall trees in his path.

    It was Chen Fan.

    He fell into an absolute disadvantage after his first exchange and was sent flying away. His qi and blood shook, and fresh blood seeped out from the corners of his mouth.

    Chen Fan steadied himself and stared at the storm in front with a cold gaze.

    Over there, Nie Tao had his hands behind his back. He walked out of the storm like a god, that terrifying storm unable to affect him in the slightest.

 Chapter 552 - Soaring Fighting Spirit

    <h4>Chapter 552 - Soaring Fighting Spirit</h4>

    Chen Fan steadied himself and looked up into the storm. His irises shrank violently when Nie Tao walked out casually.

    ¡°So strong!¡±

    Although he knew he was no match for Nie Tao, Chen Fan hadn¡¯t expected to be injured as soon as they crossed blows.

    He waspletely outmatched and thoroughly crushed.

    This feeling was the same as when he had crushed Luo Qian¡ªaplete suppression in strength.

    Chen Fan felt a sense of sobriety inside.

    As expected, the gap between each level in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core was like a vast gorge.

    He could kill a three-revolution Golden Core expert. When facing a four-revolution expert, he could also put up a fight. However, before a five-revolution expert like Nie Tao, he was helpless.

    The difference in their strengths was too great.

    Still, he was far from afraid; on the contrary, his blood boiled even hotter, surging fiercely.

    Strands of power grew within him, and his fighting spirit soared wildly.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder you managed to defeat Luo Qian. You¡¯re pretty good indeed, to only receive an injury from my Heaven Copsing Palm. You should be proud of yourself.¡±

    Nie Tao¡¯s expression was as proud as ever. He looked down on Chen Fan like a heavenly god looking down on mortals in the lower realm.

    ¡°Hand over the Martial Dao Will fragment now, and I can grant you a quick death. Otherwise, you¡¯ll experience so much pain and suffering you¡¯ll be begging for death!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s gaze was like a sinister snake, staring at Chen Fan coldly.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    However, the response he got was a terrifying halberd light flying toward him.

    A cold light shot out from Nie Tao¡¯s eyes as he said icily, ¡°You truly are stubborn. Fine, if you won¡¯t be convinced until faced with grim reality, I¡¯ll grant your wish!¡±

    A sh of light appeared at the tip of his finger, and a divine beam shot out, shattering Chen Fan¡¯s halberd light into pieces.

    Aiming with his finger once more, another divine light pierced through space like lightning, aiming to kill Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan let out a deep shout and struck his palm out. His Northern Star Reaper Hand, infused with reaping intent, shattered the divine light and continued toward Nie Tao.

    Nie Tao¡¯s lips curled into a smirk as he disregarded the iing Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡±

    His aura erupted, creating a visible shockwave that collided with the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Immediately, the two terrifying forces collided, causing a chain of explosions like firecrackers. The surrounding space shook violently.

    ¡°Meet your doom, Chen Fan. Dying in my hands wouldn¡¯t be a disgrace to your reputation!¡±

    Nie Tao charged forward, crushing the generated storm. He strode forth imposingly, each step radiating a powerful aura that pressed heavily on Chen Fan.

    Nie Tao arrived in front of Chen Fan in a sh, as if the space between them had shrunk to an inch. He chopped down with a palm strike filled with overwhelming power, causing the space to tter noisily.

    Chen Fan immediately felt an incredibly terrifying force bearing down on him, plunging him into despair. He quicklyunched a counterattack. The strength of ten thousand elephants instantly erupted as he punched, shattering space-time.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    However, the gap between the two was too great. Nie Tao¡¯s palm strike destroyed his punch. A terrifying force swept over, wreaking havoc inside him.

    Chen Fan revolved his Heaven Seizing Furnace at once to suppress and refine the terrifying force. Without it, his organs would have beenpletely destroyed.

    With a cold gaze, Chen Fan took a deep breath.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The primeval qi of heaven and earth within a five-kilometer radius seemed to be drawn into him.

    He immediately erupted with a terrifying pulsating aura. Heaven and earth shook. All kinds of vibrations shook the world, and even the void trembled.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan was aze with fighting spirit, wrapped in an aura of unyielding resolve. Be it fighting against heaven or earth, he disyed an invincible might that instantly erupted. He rushed forward fearlessly.

    Even if he had to face an immortal, he would fight with his halberd to the end.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd seemed to harness the powers of purgatory. It descended in a sh and shed through space-time, aiming to drag Nie Tao into hell.

    Nie Tao¡¯s gaze flickered. He sensed a faint threat from this attack, which truly surprised him somewhat.

    A peak ninth-level Core Formation realm brat posed a threat to a terrifying five-revolution Golden Core expert like him¡ªunbelievable, even if word spread.

    However, this feeling of threat was very faint, so he didn¡¯t have to dodge. He simply raised his arm and grabbed at the void.

    It caused millions of changes, billions of qi phenomena, created a world, and rotated the universe.

    A terrifying and domineering palm appeared and caught the terrifying halberd light.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    The halberd light trembled violently, trying to break through thisrge hand.

    However, the palm clenched violently, and with a boom, the attack which could injure a four-revolution Golden Core realm expert was directly shattered.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, looks like you¡¯re making your final struggles. Fine, it seems I can only use my full strength to kill you!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s expression was very cold.

    He had thought Chen Fan was only a kitten, and he could easily seize the Martial Dao Will fragment from him. From the look of things now, however, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t weak at all. He wasparable to a four-revolution Golden Core expert.

    If he did not employ his full strength, it would be a little difficult to kill Chen Fan.

    Nie Tao suddenly struck out, sending a punch that shook the very fabric of space.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The terrifying fist force tore through the space ruthlessly like a vicious dragon, sting toward Chen Fan. It was simply unstoppable. The air ahead waspressed, then torn apart, causing a chain of explosions.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression changed drastically. He struck out with his left palm, unleashing a boundless golden light that transformed into arge golden palm. However, that terrifying fist force smashed it into smithereens.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Before Chen Fan had a chance to summon a trace of true primeval, the residual fist force struck him, breaking through his protective true primeval and exploding.

    A loud explosion rang out.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan was sent flying five kilometers backward like a sack of potatoes, crashing into a small hill and turning it into smithereens. He felt his organs rupture, and several of his ribs break.

    Even though Chen Fan¡¯s physique was incredibly strong,parable to a Grade-3 or 4 treasure, Nie Tao¡¯s full-powered punch still injured him.

    If it wasn¡¯t for the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, any other four-revolution Golden Core expert in his ce would have been blown up by that punch across the air.

 Chapter 553 - Desperate Fight

    <h4>Chapter 553 - Desperate Fight</h4>

    When Nie Tao fought seriously, he was truly terrifying. Chen Fan couldn''t resist at all and was almost obliterated.

    Nie Tao was a bit surprised himself.

    He was not joking when he said he would use his full strength.

    That punch earlier had eighty to ny percent of his full power, capable of easily killing a four-revolution Golden Core invincible expert.

    Yet, Chen Fan was merely knocked down a hill, breaking several ribs and suffering severe injuries, but his life wasn¡¯t in danger.

    His physique truly surprised Nie Tao.

    <i>No wonder he could retrieve the Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands. He must have practiced a mighty body cultivation technique!</i> Nie Tao thought, his gaze flickering as he watched Chen Fan climb out of the rubble.

    Chen Fan''s physical toughness was simply unbelievable to him. But regardless of how strong Chen Fan¡¯s body was, there was no way he would escape death today!

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan rushed out from the pile of rubble, looking miserable and his chest hurting badly.

    It was obvious that many of his ribs were broken, with some bones piercing his organs, leaving him severely injured.

    Chen Fan did not charge blindly. After several exchanges, he clearly understood the vast difference in strength between them.

    Before reaching the one-revolution Golden Core realm, all he could do when facing a five-revolution Golden Core expert was to receive a one-sided beating, putting his life in danger.

    Chen Fan examined his surroundings, looking for a route to escape.

    ¡°Thinking of running?¡± Nie Tao noticed Chen Fan¡¯s subtle action.

    There was no way Nie Tao could let Chen Fan flee. Aside from Chen Fan¡¯s earlier insults that earned him certain death, just his extraordinary power at his current cultivation level made him a potential future threat.

    If he grew any stronger, he could pose a threat to not just Nie Tao but also to Yin Jiu, the alliance leader. Also, given their existing grudge, Nie Tao couldn¡¯t let him survive.

    ¡°Die!¡± With a cold shout, Nie Tao struck decisively, aiming to kill.

    His aura became even colder and more aggressive. He rushed toward Chen Fan like a heavenly god. A deathly aura instantly shrouded Chen Fan.

    Realizing that Nie Tao had seen through his intentions, Chen Fan knew that escaping wouldn¡¯t be easy. He had to brace himself and fight, hoping to find an opportunity to flee during the battle.

    Nie Tao struck decisively, wiping out any opportunities for Chen Fan to escape. He formed seals with both hands and unleashed a powerful force, engulfing Chen Fan in boundless true primeval.

    The energy swept across, shaking the universe.

    This was the power of a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert. It crushed Chen Fan¡¯s attack. Overwhelmed by the immense force, Chen Fan coughed up mouthfuls of blood.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s physique was incredibly strong, Nie Tao¡¯s attacking power surpassed what he could withstand. He was beaten to a very miserable state.

    However, this also stimted his ferocity. He fought back fiercely, the Strength of Myriad Elephants erupting wildly.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace was also revolving fiercely, suppressing the terrifying energy that had rushed inside him. His desperate demeanor and ferocity left Nie Tao feeling somewhat apprehensive, giving him pause.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The energy detonated, unleashing a storm that shook the earth and mountains and even caused the stars to tremble.

    Chen Fan was repeatedly knocked back, coughing up blood and looking utterly wretched. The otherworldly space-time behind him wavered as if it was on the verge of shattering.

    Yet, his gaze remained fiercely locked on Nie Tao.

    Nie Tao¡¯s expression was ugly. Despite using his full strength, he hadn¡¯t expected such difficulty in dealing with Chen Fan, filling him with shame and anger.

    ¡°You puny ant¡ªno, you damn cockroach! You¡¯re even harder to deal with than a four-revolution Golden Core martial artist. I can¡¯t let you live. Cutting the grass without removing its roots will only allow it to grow back with time. Go to hell!¡± Nie Tao said viciously, his aura exploding as he channeled his cultivation.

    His aura shook heaven and earth and covered the sky. Demonic beasts within a twenty-five-kilometer radius prostrated themselves, trembling in fear.

    Nie Tao formed a strange beast in his hand, which roared furiously at the sky before charging at Chen Fan. In between its breath, columns of me shot out, burning through space.

    He had unleashed his full power, holding nothing back.

    Chen Fan shouted, his energy visibly flowing on him, almost bing tangible.

    The qi and blood inside him flowed noisily, like rivers andkes. An unrivaled light burst forth from him and met Nie Tao¡¯s attack fearlessly like the reincarnation of an ancient conqueror.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying collision instantly erupted.

    A boundless storm swept out,yer byyer. The air was whipped into a thousand waves, crashing and exploding, rippling in all directions.

    The terrifying force shook endlessly in space. Chen Fan also flew out from within like a bird with its wings clipped.

    Nie Tao didn¡¯t fare much better. The impact pushed him back about ten steps. His gaze turned dark. This was the first time he had been knocked back after so many exchanges. It was humiliating and unforgivable.

    His figure blurred as the surrounding space shook. The surrounding storms shattered, and he shot forward, creating a sonic boom as he charged at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan struck out with full force, sweeping out.

    Without even looking, Nie Tao sent out a palm strike. His energy surged, sweeping heaven and earth, crushing everything.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Explosions rang out endlessly. The terrifying force caused arge area of the air to copse.

    Chen Fan persevered, gritting his teeth tightly. A surge of energy erupted within him, constantly pushing back against Nie Tao.

    Although Chen Fan shook fiercely from the impact, he clenched his teeth hard and did not retreat.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Boundless energy exploded. Chen Fan was knocked back once more, spewing out a mouthful of blood.

    ¡°You must die today!¡±

    Nie Tao also looked to be in a sorry state, hisposure not as calm as before.

    As a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert, he found it disgraceful to struggle so much against a peak ninth-level Core Formation realm opponent. One could only imagine how furious he was in his heart.

    This only intensified his desire to kill Chen Fan.

    It didn¡¯t matter even if he failed to obtain the Martial Dao Will fragment, but he must ughter Chen Fan to appease his hatred and wash away this shame!

 Chapter 554 - Heavily Injure, Escape

    <h4>Chapter 554 - Heavily Injure, Escape</h4>

    ¡°You must die today!¡±

    Nie Tao¡¯s eyes were filled with boundless killing intent that swept through thends.

    With his cultivation, he was considered top-tier among those on this ind. Yet, he struggled against Chen Fan, who wasn¡¯t even close to his level. This was a disgrace and a blow to his prestige.

    He was five minor realms above Chen Fan. This should have been an easy victory, but he couldn¡¯t swiftly overpower Chen Fan.

    In the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core, the difference between each level was immense, and Chen Fan had not even reached this realm.

    Normally, anyone at the peak of the ninth level would be unable to withstand a single strike from him. And that only applied to the geniuses. Nie Tao could scare to death ordinary people with that cultivation level with his presence alone. A single breath from him could wipe out many.

    However, Chen Fan was an exceptional challenge. Not only did he dare to fight back, but he also seeded in doing it for so long. Despite being battered and bleeding, he showed no signs of surrender.

    On the contrary, his expression grew increasingly ferocious and desperate, fighting as if he were willing to sacrifice himself. This unsettled Nie Tao, making him anxious.

    How could he let a character like this mature?

    That would be too horrifying!

    Chen Fan was at the peak of the ninth level now; if he advanced to the one-revolution Golden Core realm, even Nie Tao would likely no longer be a match for him.

    Nie Tao¡¯s killing intent grew even more intense, and he attacked Chen Fan once more.

    ¡°Die!¡± Nie Tao charged forward, his murderous aura surging with thunderous power. Lightning streaked across the sky, forming a thunderous sword aimed directly at Chen Fan''s throat.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, sweeping out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in his hand. He directly destroyed that thunderous sword. The force of the impact sent his clothing fluttering fiercely.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Nie Tao snorted coldly and attacked again. Anyone else would have died long ago from Nie Tao''s attacks.

    However, Chen Fan''s strength and endurance,bined with his extraordinary physique and rapid recovery, allowed him to persevere. It made the raging mes inside Nie Tao burn hotter and hotter.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The ground exploded once more, dirt flying everywhere. It was a catastrophe for thend.

    Nie Tao wanted to kill Chen Fan, but thetter resisted with all his strength, swinging the Purgatory Divine Halberd in his hand wildly.

    Streaks of halberd light, capable of annihting the world, wove together into an inescapable, guarding him without the slightest opening.

    However, under Nie Tao''s assault, the of halberd light was quickly torn apart. Nie Tao¡¯s terrifying force struck Chen Fan, making him spew blood.

    Yet, Chen Fan¡¯s expression remained cold and domineering. Inwardly, though, he was anxious.

    No matter how strong his physique was, there was a limit. If he continued receiving such heavy attacks, it was only a matter of time before Nie Tao killed him.

    <i>I must think of a way to deal serious damage to Nie Tao once to have a chance at escaping!</i> A cold glint flickered in the depths of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he came up with a plot to heavily injure Nie Tao.

    Nie Tao¡¯s true primeval transformed into an ancient divine mountain, pressing down on Chen Fan.

    The sky copsed. The air swept out wildly in all directions like arrows. It was as if the end of the world was descending upon him.

    Chen Fan stood up, channeled his strength, and rushed to the sky, facing it head-on.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    Chen Fan smashed the ancient divine mountain, but he let out a miserable cry as blood spattered through the air. He was knocked to the ground, forming arge crater upon impact.

    Nie Tao stood in the sky, gazing down. He looked at Chen Fan, who was sprawled in the crater and bleeding profusely, his aura feeble. Nie Tao finally revealed a faint smile and said, ¡°I have to admit, you are indeed very strong. I underestimated you earlier. To fight me to this extent, you shouldn¡¯t feel any regret even in death!¡±

    After attacking Chen Fan for so long, he had finally heavily injured Chen Fan and sapped his fighting power. Now, he was at Nie Tao¡¯s mercy.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Nie Tao slowly descended, his qi still flowing, ready for a desperate strike from Chen Fan. However, even when he was on the ground, Chen Fan remained unmoving, gasping heavily for air.

    He finally felt relieved, sure that his opponent was spent.

    ¡°Chen Fan, hand over the Martial Dao Will fragment. I can grant you a quick death!¡±

    Nie Tao approached Chen Fan with the attitude of a victor.

    Grabbing at the empty air, his energy surged, picking up Chen Fan into the air. It was a humiliating position to be in.

    ¡°Haha, you have indeed lost all fighting strength. You must be at the end of your rope.¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan unable to resist like a dead dog, Nie Tao finally let his guard down.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    However, that was exactly what Chen Fan wanted. A fierce light shone from his eyes. He thrust the Purgatory Divine Halberd toward Nie Tao¡¯s head at lightning speed.

    Nie Tao turned pale with fright due to the unexpected outburst.

    He had sensed Chen Fan''s weak aura and had verified repeatedly that he had lost all his fighting strength, so this sudden attack took himpletely by surprise.

    How was he to know that Chen Fan could use the Heaven Seizing Furnace to suppress all types of aura? He used it to trick Nie Tao.

    This was part of Chen Fan¡¯s n to deal a serious blow to Nie Tao, creating an opening for him to escape.

    ¡°What!¡± Nie Tao turned pale with fright, sensing the grim reaper¡¯s summons. A deadly intentpletely shrouded him, making his hands and feet turn cold.

    Reacting quickly, Nie Tao turned his head to the side, but Chen Fan¡¯s thrust still pierced through his left arm.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The terrifying force immediately erupted. Nie Tao let out a miserable scream as his entire left arm was destroyed.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan seized this opportunity and unleashed the Wings of Rain Dragon. With a swish, he tore through the air and turned into a streak of light, fleeing into the depths of the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    He knew that although that attack earlier had heavily injured Nie Tao, crippling his left arm, it wasn¡¯t fatal. Nie Tao¡¯sbat strength was still there. He needed to seize this opening to escape.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s furious roar resounded behind Chen Fan.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you leave, you bastard! Forget about escaping, you¡¯re dead for sure today! You hurt me, you deeply wounded me, I¡¯ll rip you into a thousand pieces!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s furious roar transformed into waves, sweeping outyer afteryer.

 Chapter 555 - Fire Ape Territory

    <h4>Chapter 555 - Fire Ape Territory</h4>

    ¡°Don¡¯t you leave, you bastard! Forget about escaping, you¡¯re dead for sure today! You hurt me, you deeply wounded me, I¡¯ll rip you into a thousand pieces!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s furious roar shook thends, echoing through the universe. The air exploded non-stop from his roar.

    This battle against Nie Tao had been arduous for Chen Fan.

    For the first time, he felt the agony of being overpowered like this, forced to resort to trickery to cripple Nie Tao''s arm and create a chance for escape.

    However, Nie Tao was relentless. Pushing his speed to the limit, he chased Chen Fan without pause. He was dead set on killing him.

    The pursuit went on from daytime into the night. They alternated between chasing, stopping, and fighting, repeating the cycle endlessly.

    Despite losing his left arm, Nie Tao¡¯s fighting prowess was still ridiculously high. Chen Fan couldn''t gain any advantage.

    In this tragic pursuit, Chen Fan¡¯s Wings of Rain Dragon almost became bare, with hardly any feathers left on them. He was covered in wounds and blood, with countless broken bones. His freakish recovery speed could no longer keep up with the rate of his injuries, leaving him a bloody mess.

    Nie Tao wasn¡¯t faring much better. Hisplexion was pale from blood loss due to his severe injury.

    His left arm was destroyed, a sight too horrible to bear. He would be a one-armed man in the future.

    However, his cultivation realm was higher than Chen Fan¡¯s. Thus, his situation was still much better.

    ¡°Insane, he must be freaking insane. He¡¯s been chasing for a whole day and night, and he¡¯s still not letting up!¡± Chen Fan cursed.

    During this period, they fought asionally, only increasing their injuries. Still, Nie Tao was unwilling to let him go, chasing him down like a madman.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t even know where he could run to now.

    Nie Tao was like a rabid dog, relentlessly hunting Chen Fan with a single thought: kill Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan had already done all he could.

    If it wasn¡¯t for his foundation being ten times that of martial artists in the same cultivation realm, his true primeval would have been drained long ago, and he would have sumbed to Nie Tao¡¯s attacks.

    Now, he could barely keep his Wings of Rain Dragon pping.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you bastard, you won¡¯t get away! I will definitely kill you! You dare to inflict such a grievous wound on me, I¡¯ll kill you even if you run to the ends of the world and make you die without a grave!¡± Nie Tao roared furiously, staring resentfully at Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    Nie Tao had never anticipated that fighting Chen Fan would result in such a significant loss, especially losing an arm. If he couldn¡¯t kill Chen Fan, the trauma would likely hinder his progress in the future.

    ¡°Only your blood and your life can wash away the shame you¡¯ve caused me and atone for your sins!¡±

    This was his heart demon; he had to remove it.

    ¡°Heck, are you crazy? It¡¯s just an arm! How cool would it be to be a one-armed warrior! Besides, you tried to kill me first!¡± Chen Fan, overwhelmed with frustration, couldn¡¯t help but curse out loud. ¡°You damned bastard, if I escape, I¡¯ll make sure to wipe out your pathetic Battle Heaven Alliance and show you what happens when you mess with me!¡±

    Chen Fan knew that this would only add fuel to the fire, but he was just too frustrated. Never in his life had he been chased like this. Overwhelming anger had built up inside him.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, what shameless boasting. Tomorrow will nevere for you. You won¡¯t escape from me. I¡¯ll make sure to kill you!¡± Nie Tao roared furiously, his killing intent as fierce as ever. It underscored his hatred for Chen Fan.

    He raised his arm and sent out a palm strike as he roared. It transformed into a mountainous palm seal, pressing ruthlessly toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan beat his Wings of Rain Dragon frantically, setting off a hurricane that wrapped around him. He flew across the sky like a streak of light, flitting close to a kilometer away.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Nie Tao¡¯s palm strike crumbled a mountain peak below. The vibrations opened arge crevice. Despite having exhausted a huge amount of his stamina, his strength remained terrifying.

    He panted heavily, having depleted arge amount of his energy in that attack earlier.

    The day and night of continuous pursuit was also very exhausting for a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert like him. Anyone else would have long since given up.

    However, Nie Tao loathed Chen Fan. He had to kill Chen Fan to appease his hatred. This abhorrence had been fueling for thest twenty-four hours.

    He had never suffered such a huge loss.

    He had never suffered such a significant loss or humiliation, which drove him to madness. He had to kill Chen Fan.

    By now, both parties werepeting in terms of their willpower.

    They were both very exhausted, teetering on the edge of copse. Whoever faltered first would lose.

    Yet, both were incredibly strong-willed.

    Nie Tao was resolute in killing Chen Fan to wash away his shame, while Chen Fan was trying to escape, and would return for revenge when he grew stronger.

    Suddenly, the ferocious roars of a beast came from the valley far ahead. Its roars turned into sound waves and swept out, knocking over arge swathe of trees.

    Waves of terrifying demon qi rose to the sky. Those roars alone could strike fear into the hearts of three or four-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    Very powerful demonic beasts existed in the mountain valley ahead.

    From afar, Chen Fan could see over a hundred giant apes in that mountain valley. These apes were engulfed in mes, emitting incredibly formidable auras.

    <i>Fire Apes! </i>Chen Fan immediately recognized these demonic beasts. And there was a whole band of them here.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered intensely.

    A band of Fire Apes was ahead, while Nie Tao was chasing relentlessly from behind. He was caught between a rock and a hard ce, with no room to advance or to retreat.

    ¡°To hell with it!¡±

    Gritting his teeth, Chen Fan didn¡¯t stop. Instead, he sped up, rushing toward the band of Fire Apes. Danger also held the chance of survival.

    The Wings of Rain Dragon beat furiously, generating another hurricane that wrapped around him. He sped into the mountain valley like a bolt of lightning.

    The strengths of those hundred or so Fire Apes varied.

    The strong one, like that Fire Ape King, wasparable to a human five-revolution Golden Core expert, while the weak ones were only equivalent to Yuanfu realm experts.

    He had rushed in thinking that Nie Tao would give up the chase due to the Fire Apes. However, he heard the sound of Nie Tao speeding through the air behind him, leaving him speechless.

    He had already risked his life by intruding on the Fire Apes¡¯ territory, and Nie Tao was still not letting him go. Was he really intent on mutual destruction?

 Chapter 556 â€“ Jackpot

    <h4>Chapter 556 ¨C Jackpot</h4>

    Chen Fan was speechless. He had taken the risk to enter the Fire Apes¡¯ territory, yet Nie Tao wasn¡¯t letting up. If the Fire Apes discovered them, they both would die.

    He suddenly smiled coldly. Since Nie Tao was so relentless, he would use this opportunity against him.

    He immediately rubbed his palms together, forming the Heaven Piercing Spear. He hurled it toward a young Fire Ape, who was in the Yuanfu realm.

    Next, he quickly withdrew his aura, suppressing it using the Heaven Seizing Furnace, and plunged, like he was diving into water.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear, carrying terrifying rotational power, turned that young Fire Ape into a mist of blood. The nearby Fire Apes were all stunned.

    But this act of aggression was like lighting a powder keg.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    ¡°<i>Roar, roar</i>!¡±

    ¡°<i>Roar, roar, roar</i>!¡±

    The Fire Apes were enraged,

    They werepletely furious!

    Someone had dared to invade their territory and kill one of their own.

    Their roars filled the sky, and their mes burned even more fiercely as they pounded their chests in anger.

    These Fire Apes immediately caught sight of Nie Tao and assumed he was the attacker. They charged at him like a swarm of fiery meteors.

    Nie Tao quickly realized the situation. The madness in his eyes faded, reced by resentment. He noticed that Chen Fan''s aura hadpletely vanished.

    Chen Fan, as still as a stone, had withdrawn his aura entirely and plunged downward.

    Because his aura was withdrawn, those Fire Apes did not sense him. They only sensed Nie Tao and rushed toward him, their murderous qi overwhelming, intent on tearing him apart.

    Nie Tao cursed out loud. Chen Fan had cunningly used the Fire Apes against him.

    Under normal circumstances, Nie Tao wouldn¡¯t fear facing these apes. He could easily escape. However, his true primeval was nearly exhausted. He was running on empty.

    The Fire Ape King, on the other hand, was a five-revolution Golden Core realm beast. With the other Fire Apes, Nie Tao would be surrounded and beaten to death if caught.

    ¡°Ahhh, Chen Fan, you beast! We¡¯re absolutely irreconcble!¡± Nie Tao roared in indignant fury and turned to flee.

    However, the Fire Apes were already thoroughly enraged. They were rushing over in groups.

    The Fire Ape King, moving with incredible speed like a ming lightning bolt, reached Nie Tao¡¯s back in an instant. It raised its millstone-sized ming fist and smashed it down at his back.

    Since they hadn¡¯t sensed Chen Fan, all their fury was concentrated on Nie Tao. They wanted to kill him to avenge that young Fire Ape.

    When Nie Tao sensed the terrifying attack aimed at his back, his expression changed drastically. He quickly turned around and channeled what little true primeval he had left to his right hand and punched.

    With a rumble, Nie Tao flew back, shattering a mountain into pieces.

    However, the Fire Apes would not let him go just like that and rushed toward him again.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan let out a sigh of relief as he quickly descended.

    As soon as hended, the ground suddenly copsed. Chen Fan was caughtpletely off guard and fell in.

    Chen Fan climbed up to his feet, covered in dirt. He dusted himself off and looked up, feeling speechless.

    Was his luck that bad? He justnded from the sky and happened to step on a fragile spot on the ground, falling into the hole.

    ¡°<i>Ptooi, ptooi</i>.¡± Chen Fan spat out the wild grass in his mouth. This year was simply bad luck for him.

    He scanned his surroundings and discovered a passageway. Weeds were overgrown in front of the passageway. Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, and he walked over.

    Soon, his field of vision widened.

    Arge paddy field appeared in his sight.

    Yes, it was a verdant paddy field. Arge swathe of rice ears swayed in the wind.

    When Chen Fan saw this scene, it was as if he had seen a ghost. He never thought there would be such apletely different world down here. Someone actually nted rice here.

    However, he also noticed that, unlike ordinary rice, the rice ears in this paddy field were crimson and shaped like a winding dragon.

    Each crop of rice only had one rice ear, and the rice ear only grew a single grain of rice.

    Chen Fan took a deep breath. He immediately sensed his insides growing restless, as if the blood-colored rice were fatally attractive to him.

    He immediately realized that these rice ears were not ordinary.

    He strode over, plucked off a rice ear, and extracted the grain of rice. He discovered that the rice grain was also crimson, translucent, and shaped like a true dragon.

    The grain of rice was three inches long and one inch wide. It wasn¡¯t big but was as heavy as a block of iron.

    As he examined it closely, his restlessness grew even more intense. Suddenly, a sh of inspiration struck Chen Fan. He remembered a name: Dragon Blood Rice.

    ¡°This is... Dragon Blood Rice!¡±

    He saw records about the Dragon Blood Rice in one of the ancient books in the Spring Autumn Sect.

    This was a very rare and precious variety of rice. It only grew in ces withrge amounts of a true dragon¡¯s divine blood or next to a dragon¡¯s tomb.

    This kind of rice grew by absorbing the blood of a true dragon and their qi. Each crop produced a single ear of rice, bearing just one grain of Dragon Blood Rice. These grains were incredibly valuable, containing the power of a true dragon¡¯s bloodline.

    Consuming Dragon Blood Rice for a long period would not only slowly imbue a person with a true dragon¡¯s bloodline, but also strengthen their physique, granting them some qualities of a true dragon.

    Typically, martial artists stopped eating regr food after breaking through to the Yuanfu realm.

    Their life-sustaining energy transitioned from food to primeval qi, elixirs, and primeval stones. They could go without food for a hundred years without issue.

    Moreover, ordinary food couldn¡¯t meet the energy needs of martial artists, regardless of how much they consumed.

    This gave rise to the old saying, "Those who consume qi are undying like gods."

    Dragon Blood Rice was different, however. They contained the energy of a true dragon¡¯s bloodline and could temper one¡¯s flesh. Consuming it over a prolonged period would make someone''s flesh unimaginably strong, eventually rivaling that of a true dragon.

    ¡°What a jackpot, what heavenly luck I have. I didn¡¯t expect to pick up such great benefits. I must be the favorite child of heaven and earth!¡±

    Chen Fan nearly burst out inughter.

    It would not be easy for his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to break through to the fifteenthyer.

    He had killed many demonic beasts that possessed a trace of a true dragon¡¯s bloodline. Refining their blood had loosened the Myriad Elephants Divine Art bottleneck, but it was still far from enough.

    Originally, Chen Fan had somewhat given up on it. He had nned to borrow the powers of his heavenly tribtion to advance his Myriad Elephants Divine Art when he broke through to the Divine Nascent realm. But now, with this Dragon Blood Rice, there was great hope.

 Chapter 557 - Picking Up Treasures All the Way

    <h4>Chapter 557 - Picking Up Treasures All the Way</h4>

    ¡°What a jackpot, what heavenly luck!¡± Chen Fan almostughed out loud when he saw therge field of Dragon Blood Rice.

    He had found exactly what he needed at the perfect moment. This discovery was like a blessing from above.

    ¡°This is truly an opportunity meant for me. It¡¯s amazing how fortune and misfortune are so intertwined. If I weren¡¯t being chased, I wouldn¡¯t have entered the Fire Apes¡¯ territory and stumbled upon this massive field of Dragon Blood Rice.

    ¡°Everything, from every sip to every bite, seems to be predestined!

    ¡°My physique is alreadyparable to Grade-3 or 4 treasure. If I can advance to the fifteenthyer, I will be a human weapon. I will be as tough as a Grade-5 treasure. I¡¯d be able to tear apart mountains with my bare hands and take on gods and demons with ease.

    ¡°With so much Dragon Blood Rice, <i>hehe</i>, there is hope I might reach the fifteenthyer. And even if I can¡¯t, at the very least, my physique will strengthen significantly.

    Chen Fan looked at therge field of Dragon Blood Rice and felt a tinge of regret.

    If he could take it back to the Chen n and farm it there, it would be an invaluable treasure. The n members could use it to enhance their strength, and over time, they might even develop a true dragon¡¯s bloodline.

    A true dragon was a divine dragon, an existenceparable to gods. One could only imagine the power of their bloodline.

    Even if the bloodline was birthed by relying on Dragon Blood Rice and was not a pure, true bloodline, it would still beparable to a flood dragon¡¯s bloodline. It would bless the Chen n for thousands or even tens of thousands of years.

    However, it was impossible to transnt all this Dragon Blood Rice to the outside world.

    Even if he managed to relocate it, without soil rich in dragon¡¯s blood or a dragon¡¯s tomb, the rice wouldn¡¯t be able to absorb the true dragon¡¯s essence or aura. It would eventually wither away or turn into ordinary rice.

    ¡°It seems the legend of Hidden Dragon Ind is real. Not only did a true dragon rest on the ind before but it might have also been seriously injured and recuperated on the ind. It bled on the ind, which is why some demonic beasts here carry a trace of a true dragon¡¯s bloodline and why such a vast field of Dragon Blood Rice has appeared.

    ¡°Perhaps this ce is where the dragon bled, allowing so many crops to grow until now.¡±

    Chen Fan knew that someone on Hidden Dragon Ind must have discovered this treasure trove. The only exnation would be that the ind¡¯s inhabitants had protected this site and continued to harvest and farm the Dragon Blood Rice.

    The soil here, saturated with true dragon¡¯s blood, allowed the Dragon Blood Rice to be continuously grown and harvested.

    Chen Fan noticed that while the soil still contained some faint traces of dragon qi, it was very weak and sparse. The true dragon¡¯s blood had been mostly absorbed by the Dragon Blood Rice.

    This vast field of Dragon Blood Rice was likely thest harvest.

    It seemed that the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect''s sudden invasion had prevented the Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s inhabitants from harvesting the rice. The Hidden Dragon Ind inhabitants were ultimately wiped out, leaving this field untouched until Chen Fan discovered it.

    Given that this field had likely been growing for two to three thousand years, each grain of rice was undoubtedly priceless.

    Chen Fan immediately began harvesting therge swathe of Dragon Blood Rice, working swiftly and thoroughly as if he were a locust swarm.

    He only felt satisfied after harvesting all of it, his lips drawing back into a grin.

    A rough estimation told him that he had harvested over ten thousand grains of Dragon Blood Rice; his harvest was enormous.

    ¡°Since so much dragon¡¯s blood was spilled here, there might be other treasures hidden around. Hmm, let¡¯s see if I can find anything else.¡±

    After putting the Dragon Blood Rice away, Chen Fan continued exploring deeper.

    True dragon¡¯s blood was divine and immensely powerful; even a single drop could shape epochs with its formidable energy.

    Even wild grass would transform into a supreme treasure after absorbing a trace of this energy.

    ¡°<i>Hmm</i>? This is Dragon Soul Lingzhi. My god, isn¡¯t itparable to that supreme treasure Paramita Divine Flower? It¡¯s incredibly attractive for experts in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm. It¡¯s able to strengthen one¡¯s divine soul and increase the powers of a divine nascent. Consuming it during the divine nascent grand tribtion greatly improves the chances of sessfully passing through the wind and fire tribtion!¡±

    Chen Fan saw a blood-colored lingzhi in a corner. The surface of the lingzhi was covered in dragon patterns, giving it a very peculiar appearance.

    ¡°How truly wonderful. Excellent, excellent! I wasn¡¯t entirely confident I could clear the divine nascent grand tribtion, especially the divine nascent¡¯s wind and fire grand tribtion. If my divine nascent fails to endure, I could be reduced to ashes, with no chance of rebirth. With this Dragon Soul Lingzhi, I¡¯ll have an extrayer of protection.¡±

    His face broke into a wide grin as he carefully dug out the Dragon Soul Lingzhi, along with a sizable portion of soul essence, and ced it into a red sandalwood box to preserve its potency.

    He was not far from reaching the Divine Nascent realm. This Dragon Soul Lingzhi came at the perfect time. He¡¯ll keep it for now and be prepared for the future.

    ¡°This is a Dragon Meander Grass, this is a Dragon Scale Fruit, this is...¡±

    As Chen Fan walked, he came across quite a few good items and took them all.

    His guess was spot on. This area was definitely where the true dragonnded in the past. Otherwise, there would not be so many treasures here.

    Chen Fan did not expect to fall into a nest of treasures after losing his footing.

    He picked up treasures as he went, feeling incredibly refreshed. As for his injuries, he had long since forgotten about them.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s footsteps came to a pause.

    A stream of qi appeared ahead.

    ¡°<i>Hmm</i>, this is... Dragon Marrow!¡±

    This stream of qi took the shape of a true dragon, radiating a powerful dragon''s might and containing an incredibly potent and terrifying energy.

    Chen Fan recognized it at a nce. This was the very rare Dragon Marrow.

    Dragon Marrow was a spiritual vein that had absorbed a true dragon¡¯s divine blood. After thousands of years of evolution, it turned into a type of energy that resembled a true dragon and was very precious.

    This stream of Dragon Marrow in front of his eyes was only about a foot long. It was not considered big, but to Chen Fan, it was a rare treasure.

    He was at the peak of the ninth level; if he could absorb the Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy, he could easily advance to the one-revolution Golden Core realm.

    Hisbat strength would skyrocket, and he could fearlessly fight Nie Tao again.

    The geniuses on the ind had more or less obtained some treasures and opportunities. Their strengths were rising very quickly.

    Although Chen Fan was progressing quickly as well, there was still a significant gap between him and the group of people at the very top. It would be very difficult for him to close this gap. Closing that gap seemed nearly impossible without a major fortuitous encounter.

    But now, this huge opportunityy before his eyes!

 Chapter 558 - Suppressing the Dragon Marrow

    <h4>Chapter 558 - Suppressing the Dragon Marrow</h4>

    Chen Fan''s eyes lit up as he gazed at the Dragon Marrow, his excitement almost making him drool.

    The Dragon Marrow also sensed Chen Fan¡¯s eagerness and began to react. It emitted a dragon¡¯s cry as it shifted and roared.

    Despite being just a mass of energy, the Dragon Marrow, formed from a spirit vein absorbing a true dragon¡¯s divine blood, had a rudimentary consciousness. It was highly sensitive to changes in fortune and misfortune.

    ¡°Hehe, no use crying out.¡± Chen Fan chuckled, his eyes gleaming with determination. ¡°Since I¡¯ve found you, you¡¯ll be the key to my breakthrough!¡± He reached out toward the Dragon Marrow.

    ¡°<i>Aang</i>!¡± The Dragon Marrow wasn¡¯t about to surrender easily. It had rudimentary consciousness, so it also had some ns for the future. If it continued to grow here, it could forge a true dragon¡¯s body and transform into a true divine dragon.

    With a dragon¡¯s cry, it unleashed shockwaves of dragon¡¯s might that surged like a tidal wave, tearing through the void.

    <i>Boom</i>!

    <i>Boom</i>!

    <i>Boom</i>!

    Chen Fan''s true primeval hand, trying to grab the Dragon Marrow, shattered from the impact, creating a storm of qi waves.

    The Dragon Marrow might only be a powerful mass of pure energy, but its strength wasparable to a three-revolution Golden Core expert.

    Chen Fan could easily deal with a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert. But that was when he was in his peak condition. He was injured and hisbat strength had fallen sharply. It would not be easy to take down this Dragon Marrow.

    That, however, didn¡¯t mean he would just give up on this mountain of treasure. It wasn¡¯t a greed thing; he just urgently needed the Dragon Marrow.

    Although the Dragon Blood Rice could push the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fifteenthyer ofplete mastery, it wouldn¡¯t happen overnight.

    However, if he could conquer this Dragon Marrow and absorb the energy within, his cultivation would immediately advance.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, still trying to resist? If I weren¡¯t injured, I could have captured a small Dragon Marrow like this with one hand. You wouldn¡¯t have even dared to resist!¡±

    Chen Fan was a bit embarrassed seeing his true primeval hand shattered so quickly by the Dragon Marrow.

    He had gone from being able to effortlessly kill a three-revolution Golden Core expert to now struggling to suppress one. He was truly miserable.

    ¡°Submit for me!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned fierce. Ignoring his injuries, he unleashed a powerful aura. The Heaven Seizing Furnace appeared behind him and moved toward the Dragon Marrow.

    The Dragon Marrow had consciousness and knew how to avoid danger. Chen Fan, on the other hand, could not let the Dragon Marrow escape, or he would have no one to cry to.

    He didn¡¯t hold back any longer and directly brought out the Heaven Seizing Furnace. With no one else around, Chen Fan had no qualms about using it.

    The Dragon Marrow sensed the imminent threat of being fully refined. It immediately erupted with a powerful force, sending the furnace flying before letting out a strange cry and trying to flee.

    ¡°Thinking of fleeing? Not happening on my watch!¡± A ruthless light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He had already considered that the treasure belonged to him. How could he let the duck that was already in his mouth fly away?

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying aura spread from within him, and Chen Fan blocked the Dragon Marrow¡¯s path in a sh.

    The Dragon Marrow mmed onto Chen Fan¡¯s protective true primeval with a bang, setting off a chain of explosions.

    Chen Fan was thrown back by the impact, his qi and blood churning violently, making it hard to breathe.

    The Dragon Marrow might seem small, but its strength was truly shocking.

    That m earlier felt like being hit by an ancient divine mountain, nearly shattering his skeleton.

    Of course, the Dragon Marrow was also sent flying.

    Chen Fan quickly seized this opportunity and made the Heaven Seizing Furnace swallow it.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Loud booms echoed from within the Heaven Seizing Furnace as the Dragon Marrow charged left and right, trying to break free. It mmed onto the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s walls, making it shake violently as if it would shatter from the impact.

    The Dragon Marrow was extremely powerful. Although it was hitting the Heaven Seizing Furnace, the force was transmitted to Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan felt as if ancient divine mountains were ramming into him one after another. He had already sustained heavy injuries, so he immediately began spewing blood wildly. His aura went into disarray, and hisplexion became pale.

    ¡°Damn it, suppress for me, refine!¡± A vicious light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, aware that he had to suppress the Dragon Marrow as soon as possible. Otherwise, given his current condition, the Heaven Seizing Furnace might not be able to stop the Dragon Marrow¡¯s charge.

    If the Dragon Marrow broke out, he would have no choice but to watch it fly away.

    Chen Fan immediately activated the Heaven Seizing Furnace. The heaven-refining mes erupted and began refining the Dragon Marrow.

    It sensed great danger and let out deafening furious roars. Its charge on the walls of the Heaven Seizing Furnace became even fiercer.

    Chen Fan spewed blood once more. However, he ignored itpletely and sat cross-legged on top of the Heaven Seizing Furnace, operating it to ruthlessly suppress and refine the Dragon Marrow.

    As time passed, the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s trembling gradually weakened.

    Under the Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s refinement, the Dragon Marrow finally surrendered. The tiny bit of consciousness it had gained was refined away.

    The Dragon Marrow turned into a mass of iparably vast and pure energy, suppressed at the bottom of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    ¡°<i>Phew</i>!¡± Chen Fan let out a sigh of relief and exhaled a mouthful of turbid qi. His gaze had be somewhat cloudy. ¡°It¡¯s finally suppressed. Now, I need to recover from my injuries first, then make use of the Dragon Marrow¡¯s mass of energy to advance into the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm. After I break through, I shall go find trouble with the Battle Heaven Alliance!¡± A fierce light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Chen Fan took out elixirs for recovery and consumed them, beginning his recuperation.

    He also consumed the Dragon Meander Grass and Dragon Scale Fruit. They were treasures for healing and could speed up his recovery.

    Three days passed in the blink of an eye.

    Chen Fan spent three dayspletely recovering from his injuries, consuming many Recovery Elixirs, Dragon Meander Grass, Dragon Scale Fruit, and other treasures. It went to show how severe his injuries were this time.

    It also reflected how powerful Nie Tao was, though it was unknown whether he managed to escape the Fire Apes¡¯ encirclement.

    ¡°Now, it¡¯s time to refine the Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy and try to advance. I¡¯m really looking forward to it. I wonder how strong I would be after reaching the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm?¡± A trace of anticipation showed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He didn¡¯t dy any longer and closed his eyes. He channeled his cultivation and activated the Heaven Seizing Furnace, starting to refine the Dragon Marrow energy he had suppressed.

    Immediately, an iparably abundant mass of energy rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s limbs and skeleton.

 Chapter 559 - Cultivation Skyrocketed

    <h4>Chapter 559 - Cultivation Skyrocketed</h4>

    As Chen Fan began to refine the Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy, an iparably abundant power instantly rushed into his limbs and skeleton. A soothing feeling washed over him, nearly making him cry out in relief.

    The Dragon Marrow, which evolved from a spirit vein that had absorbed a true dragon¡¯s divine blood, was incredibly vast in energy, despite its rtively small size.

    Refining the Dragon Marrow was akin to refining an entire spirit vein. While it wasn¡¯t one of the massive ones, even a smaller spirit vein held terrifying power. If word of this spread, it would cause a major stir.

    As Chen Fan absorbed the Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy, his aura began boiling fiercely like water. This attempt at a breakthrough was more intense than any other.

    Chen Fan spent every second of the next month refining the Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy. The vast energy surged through him, making his aura soar, with qi waves radiating outward continuously.

    He was struck by lightning when he was in the Qigong realm, which gave him heavenly opportunity. However, every step in his cultivation path had been countless times harder than others since then.

    His progress was much more solid but also required exponentially more resources¡ªsometimes ten to a hundred times more than others.

    However, once he made a breakthrough, he could defeat opponents far above his level with ease, making itmon for him to challenge those a few levels higher.

    How else could he fight Nie Tao, a five-revolution Golden Core realm supreme expert, while being at the peak of the ninth level?

    Although he suffered heavy injuries as a result, he kept his life and was still jumping about healthily. He even obtained such a huge opportunity here.

    He invested a lot in his cultivation; correspondingly, he also gained a lot.

    Chen Fan circted his cultivation fiercely, his aura spilling out uncontrobly like a water pail filled to the brim and overflowing. He was having difficulty managing all that energy.

    He couldn¡¯t even withdraw his aura into the Heaven Seizing Furnace now. Unlike his previous breakthroughs in safe and quiet ces, this location was far from secure.

    The Fire Apes'' mountain valley was directly above, and the disturbance caused by his breakthrough would likely attract their attention, leading to trouble.

    However, Chen Fan had no choice but to continue. If he interrupted his breakthrough now, all his efforts would be wasted, and he would even be at risk of qi deviation.

    Moreover, if he seeds, it would not matter even if the band of Fire Apes sensed him.

    He wouldn¡¯t have to fear them then, not even the Fire Ape King, who was as strong as a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert.

    Chen Fan focused on breaking through as quickly as possible before the Fire Apes noticed him. His aura steadily climbed, making the surrounding space shake and distort under the pressure.

    Soon, he sensed the barrier of the one-revolution Golden Core realm. He immediately called forth his true primeval, which was like a flood, and smashed violently into it. With a rumble, the barrier instantly copsed from the impact like a piece of paper.

    The flood water found a path forward and surged wildly. Meanwhile, Chen Fan¡¯s aura also reached a brand-new realm, the one-revolution Golden Core realm.

    Yet, Chen Fan¡¯s aura did not stop or wane. Instead, it kept soaring, boiling, and erupting.

    The Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy was too vast.

    Although Chen Fan needed a massive amount of energy to achieve his breakthrough, the Dragon Marrow contained more than sufficient energy. He had merely used a third of it to advance to the one-revolution Golden Core realm.

    He continued to push his cultivation forward.

    Early-stage, one-revolution Golden Core.

    Middle-stage, one-revolution Golden Core.

    Late-stage, one-revolution Golden Core.

    Soon, Chen Fan¡¯s aura doubled. He had reached the peak of the one-revolution Golden Core realm; soon, he advanced to the two-revolution Golden Core realm.

    And still, his aura didn¡¯t stop erupting. It continued to boil and rise.

    Early-stage, two-revolution Golden Core.

    Middle-stage, two-revolution Golden Core.

    Late-stage, two-revolution Golden Core.

    Just when Chen Fan was about to make another advancement, the Fire Ape King above finally noticed something amiss. Its ming, beastly eyes shot out two columns of actual fire, piercing through the air.

    It roared and charged toward the source of the foreign aura.

    The other Fire Apes also stopped whatever they were doing and followed after the Fire Ape King.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    The band of Fire Apes were like ming tanks that could run and roar. The earth shook violently as they ran.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    At this time, the earth suddenly trembled violently.

    The ground where Chen Fan had missed his footing and fallen down from cracked open. The Fire Ape King had burst in, tearing it apart.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    The Fire Ape Kingnded heavily, causing the earth to rumble.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    The other Fire Apes jumped down as well, like the most loyal guards.

    With amanding presence, the Fire Ape King advanced with imposing steps, exuding a fierce and formidable aura as it moved deeper into the cave.

    Upon seeing the field of Dragon Blood Ricepletely harvested, it roared in fury.

    It hade a step toote. The Dragon Blood Rice was harvested by someone else.

    It charged forward. Rumbling noises resounded, and soon it saw Chen Fan sitting cross-legged on the ground.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The Fire Ape King let out a roar that shook heaven and earth. The air directly exploded, forming an extremely berserk shockwave that swept toward Chen Fan.

    However, before thisyer of shockwave could get within ten meters of Chen Fan, it was shattered by the qi waves emitted by him.

    ¡°Human, how dare you steal this king¡¯s treasure, die!¡± The Fire Ape King spoke in human¡¯s tongue.

    As an ape-type demonic beast with inherent human genes, it had a high level of intelligence and could speak the human tongue fluently. At five-revolution Golden Core strength, its intelligence wasparable to that of an adult human.

    mes roared around the Fire Ape King as its intelligent eyes glinted with anger. It lunged at Chen Fan, its enormous fist¡ªabout the size of a millstone¡ªswinging toward his head.

    It sensed a dangerous auraing from Chen Fan and knew that if it didn¡¯t make a move now, then it and its n members would be in trouble.

    Just as the Fire Ape King¡¯s ming fist was about tond on Chen Fan, he suddenly opened his eyes and roared fiercely.

    The air instantly exploded everywhere. The Fire Ape King was sent flying by the sound waves of the roar, its mes even dimmed slightly.

    A shocking aura simultaneously erupted from Chen Fan, sweeping across thends and the universe. It was simply worlds apart from before.

    The aura was so powerful that it made heaven and earth tremble in fear.

    An aura that cut across the sky blossomed from Chen Fan.

    Finally, he had broken through to the three-revolution Golden Core realm!

 Chapter 560 - Explosive News

    <h4>Chapter 560 - Explosive News</h4>

    After numerous chaotic battles, the outer regions of Hidden Dragon Ind were divided among the major forces, establishing clear spheres of influence.

    With territories established, the major alliances quietly began exploring the depths of Hidden Dragon Ind.

    They didn¡¯te here to fight but to explore the ruins left behind on the Hidden Dragon Ind, seeking treasures, opportunities, and perhaps even legacies.

    Although the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect¡¯s army of experts invaded the Hidden Dragon Ind and destroyed it in that battle three thousand years ago, leaving only ruins and plundering treasures, there was no guarantee they had taken everything.

    However, the deeper one explored, the greater the danger.

    The dangers included not only stronger demonic beasts but also the lingering powers from the ancient battle.

    Even so, the crowd did not cower in fear and continued exploring forward.

    They were often ambushed by demonic beasts, but that didn¡¯t stop them. Some also fell to the residual powers from the ancient battle.

    However, none of these difficulties stopped the people from moving forward.

    During their explorations, some were fortunate to find valuable items in the ruins, such as heaven-tier cultivation techniques, Grade-5 treasures, or perfectly preserved elixirs.

    All of this deeply encouraged the others, and they explored the depths even more fearlessly.

    At this time, a shocking piece of news broke out that sent the martial artists on the entire Hidden Dragon Ind into an uproar.

    A well-preserved great hall was discovered, located in a very hidden mountain range.

    The news made everyone excited. Their blood ran hot as they rushed toward the mountain range where the great hall was discovered, ready to fight for treasures.

    Everyone understood the importance of finding a well-preserved great hall.

    Some people had obtained treasures in ruins, which made their strengths soar. If a ruin had such magnificent treasures, a well-preserved great hall was bound to have treasures that surpassed those found in the ruins.

    Consequently, the entire Hidden Dragon Ind was abuzz as soon as the news broke. Almost everyone who heard about it hurried to the great hall.

    ......

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The air exploded everywhere with that roar, generating an extremely terrifying shockwave that sent the oing Fire Ape King flying, making it spew blood.

    Chen Fan stood up from the ground, his aura now overwhelmingly powerful and shocking. He was now a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert.

    Terrifying powers surged within him, like a volcano on the verge of erupting.

    He felt like he could poke a hole through a hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain with his finger.

    The immense strength within him was so overwhelming that Chen Fan almost couldn¡¯t contain it. He roared uncontrobly, his voice echoing through the heavens.

    ¡°<i>Roar, roar</i>!¡±

    The other Fire Apes were enraged when they saw their leader being sent flying. They pounded their chests furiously and let out a vicious roar. The surrounding temperature instantly spiked up.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    Chen Fan opened his mouth and roared, drowning out the band of Fire Apes¡¯ furious roars, shaking their burning mes, as if they were about to be extinguished.

    The Fire Apes were stunned, as they had never seen a human roar like that. How was he even louder than them? However, they immediately came back to their senses, feeling like their style had been insulted. Rage went to their heads, and they roared even more fiercely.

    Chen Fan rolled his eyes.

    Demonic beasts were indeed true to their nature. Even though ape-type demonic beasts possessed higher intelligence than other types of demonic beasts, they still weren¡¯t as smart as humans.

    They probably thought that by roaring more fiercely, they could intimidate him and show him who was stronger.

    The Fire Ape King crawled up from the ground. Its aura grew, building hostility and ferocity, ready to attack at any moment.

    It sensed that devouring Chen Fan might allow it to advance to the six-revolution Golden Core, or even higher.

    Despite Chen Fan''s dangerous aura, the Fire Ape King was determined to kill and devour him.

    The Fire Ape King did not attack Chen Fan recklessly. Instead, it said, ¡°Human, you stole my treasure!¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and said, ¡°Your treasure? What a joke! If it were really yours, you¡¯d be guarding it, not ying around up there. Just say so if you want my treasure, Fire Ape King, but I doubt you have the strength to take it.¡±

    ¡°You dare mock me, human? I¡¯ll tear off your head and use it as a wine cup!¡± the Fire Ape King roared, its rage and ferocity peaking.

    Fighting spirit is aroused by the first roll of drums, wanes with the second, and exhausted by the third.

    Now that the Fire Ape King¡¯s aura had reached its peak, if it did not strike now, this mass of qi would weaken, and in turn, lead to its loss.

    After all, it sensed a dangerous aura from Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die, human!¡± The Fire Ape King pounced once more, bringing forth a wave of heat as it executed a fist art.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air began tumbling violently.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    It was as if the Holy Prestige Horn was blowing. The terrifying fist energy twisted into a single stream, sting toward Chen Fan like a column of mes.

    This punch was so powerful that even a five-revolution Golden Core expert would have to avoid it.

    As the Fire Ape King¡¯s attack approached, Chen Fan felt no fear; instead, he was eager. His aura suddenly erupted, shaking heaven and earth in an unimaginable disy.

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll use a beast like you to test my skills and see my strength after the breakthrough.¡±

    Chen Fan threw a punch, shaking heaven and earth, and destroyed the Fire Ape King¡¯s fist energy.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan charged forward with lightning speed.

    The Fire Ape King alsomanded about a dozen Fire Apes in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm to attack Chen Fan together.

    At the peak of the ninth level, Chen Fan was already on par with a four-revolution Golden Core expert. His strength had skyrocketed to a terrifying level after his recent advancement, likely matching a six or seven-revolution Golden Core expert.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof!</i>

    The sounds of his quick punches and kicks echoed as Chen Fan effortlessly killed the Fire Apes one after another.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    In the end, Chen Fan ended the Fire Ape King with a palm strike.

    Like chopping vegetables, Chen Fan easily killed the dozen or so Fire Apes in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm and the five-revolution Golden Core Fire Ape King.

 Chapter 561 â€“ Ghost Palace?

    <h4>Chapter 561 ¨C Ghost Pce?</h4>

    This great hall was far from magnificent. Compared to other grand ruins on the ind, it looked more like a pavilion.

    Still, everyone was thrilled when they saw this great hall.

    The Blood Heavenly Demon Sect had invaded the Hidden Dragon Ind, bringing disaster to the entire ind.

    The once grand pces, built with a majestic atmosphere like an immortal¡¯s pce, were destroyed in the tragic war, turning into ruins.

    In contrast, this small and exquisite great hall survived the great battle and remained intact.

    The crowd looked at the great hall but did not make any rash moves.

    Although the great hall was preserved, the surrounding area showed signs of the great battle that ravaged the entire ind. Traces of the great battle were clearly visible in the vicinity.

    The traces were obvious even three thousand years into the future, testifying to its tragic nature.

    Another thing that made the crowd apprehensive was the eerie atmosphere around it. Even the bright moonlight couldn¡¯t make it look any less haunting.

    One could even see groups of ghost soldiers roaming around, sending shivers down the spines of the crowd.

    Moreover, terrifying roars echoed from the great hall, making people tremble in fear, uncertain if terrifying monsters lurked within.

    Yet, no one left the area. They kept their fiery gazes trained on the eerie great hall.

    Why? Because the hall was in perfect condition. It had experienced a war and the passing of three thousand years, yet it was still in perfect condition. If the hall alone was this bewildering, it was bound to have amazing treasures. If they could obtain them, soaring to the top would be easy.

    Everyone on the ind was here to get stronger. So, there was no way they could look past the mountain of treasures sitting right in front of them.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan streaked across the sky like a rainbow, rushing to the mountain range with the great hall.

    As soon as he came out from the Fire Ape territory, he encountered some participants and, after questioning them, learned the shocking news. Naturally, he would not miss it, either.

    Chen Fan stood on top of a mountain, looking at the eerie great hall from afar. It was like a vicious ghost, waiting for the crowd to walk right into a trap.

    He furrowed his brow slightly.

    Although the great hall was spared from destruction during the war, it seemed too eerie, resembling a ghost pce or Yama¡¯s pce, inhabited by vicious ghosts and creatures.

    Chen Fan took a closer look at the great hall. Although it was well-preserved, he could see some signs of destruction.

    For example, two-thirds of the great hall¡¯s inscribed que had been cut off, leaving only a third of it still hanging crookedly on the door¡¯s lintel.

    Dao!

    Chen Fan could barely make out the word Dao on the inscribed que, because a third of it had been cut off and was notplete.

    Perhaps it was the Inquiry Hall, or it could be the Lecture Hall. [1]

    Chen Fan shifted his gaze from the great hall to scan the surroundings. He wasn¡¯t the first to arrive; in fact, he was among theter arrivals.

    Some were gathered in small groups, and some hade alone, but the majority of people were gathered in their respective alliances, upying an area and exuding their auras.

    Nearly fifty days of the hundred-day trial had passed. Many people had made great gains on the ind, with noticeable improvements in their cultivationpared to when they first arrived.

    For example, a three or four-revolution Golden Core realm expert was considered top-tier when they first arrived, but now, such experts were rtivelymon.

    Initially, five or six-revolution Golden Core experts were rare, with only a handful, including Li Yao, Gongsun Zhong, and others.

    However, Chen Fan could see more than ten of them in his field of view now.

    ¡°As expected, while I¡¯ve made significant progress in my cultivation, so have others. Everyone¡¯s making progress and getting stronger.¡± Chen Fan swept a nce around. Several powerful auras blossomed, making him sigh with emotion.

    The crowd murmured among themselves, their eyes flickering with excitement.

    ¡°There must be some amazing treasure left behind in this great hall!¡±

    ¡°Treasure? Heh heh! This ce might be cursed instead! Have you noticed the terrain? It¡¯s the Nine Dragons Locked Pce terrain, trapping nefarious qi, Yin qi, fierce qi, resentment qi, and other dark energies. The dark energies don¡¯t dissipate even after millennia. What was once a blessednd might have turned into a cursed one.¡±

    ¡°You see those ghost soldiers? Do you think an ordinary cursednd would form such a phenomenon? What a joke! I bet a very evil creature has taken birth inside that great hall. Trying to seize treasure there is like trying to pull the fangs of a tiger; you won¡¯t even know how you died.¡±

    ¡°If you put it that way, will the others set free something earth-shaking once they break into the great hall?¡±

    ¡°God knows what kind of creature has formed inside after thousands of years. It might just look scary, or it could be an overwhelmingly vicious monster. No one can say for sure.¡±

    ¡°What are you afraid of? With so many of us here, are you still scared of some vicious creatures?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. No matter what, fortune favors the bold. If you don¡¯t take the risk, are you waiting for pies to fall from the sky?¡±

    Shortly afterward, the various major forces finally arrived.

    The first toe were those from the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance.

    Dozens of people marched majestically through the sky.

    Leading them was a slender, handsome youth with a regal air around him. He was none other than Prince Li Yao, the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance leader and the top genius of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation.

    Li Yao exuded a regal and domineering aura, like a supreme monarch. His fiery gaze dared no one to meet his eyes.

    Chen Fan took a few more nces at Li Yao, slightly narrowing his gaze.

    As expected of the Hong Domain¡¯s number one genius of the younger generation. He was indeed monstrous. The aura he exuded gave Chen Fan a dangerous feeling. Li Yao had most likely reached the seven-revolution Golden Core realm. His strength was simply unimaginable.

    ¡°Look, Heaven''s Equal Alliance is here. Is that the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Prince Li Yao? So that¡¯s the Hong Domain¡¯s number one genius of the younger generation? He truly is an outstanding talent, a dragon among men. His strength is already unimaginably deep at such a young age.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, since Li Yao is here, even if the hall is filled with malevolent spirits, they would be wiped out.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid Li Yao has already reached the seven-revolution Golden Core realm. He is likely just a step away from the eight-revolution Golden Core realm. He truly deserves his title as the number one genius of the younger generation!¡±

    Soon after, anothermotion rang out.

    A group of young women came stepping on the air. Under the bright moonlight, they seemed like fairies.

    Leading this group was a young woman, about seventeen or eighteen years old. She was d in a snow-white long dress, which outlined her curvaceous figure to the fullest. Her pair of big eyes flickered intelligently, her eyebrows curved, her facial features exquisite. She was already an absolute beauty without having to apply any makeup.

    However, this young woman was expressionless. She exuded a coldness that kept people away, leaving them to merely admire her from afar.

    This woman was none other than the Goddess Alliance¡¯s alliance leader, Qiu Yuexin.

    1. Both contain the word ¡®Dao¡¯. ?

 Chapter 562 - Gathered at the Dao Palace

    <h4>Chapter 562 - Gathered at the Dao Pce</h4>

    The arrival of the Goddess Alliance immediately caused amotion in the crowd.

    Countless gazes fell on the Goddess Alliance members.

    ¡°The fairies of the Goddess Alliance are here. Tsk, tsk. Wow, every one of them is an outstanding beauty, capable of causing the downfall of a city or nation. The women with both strength and beauty across the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain must be gathered in the Goddess Alliance.¡±

    Praises and exmations filled the air.

    The Goddess Alliance wasposed entirely of female disciples, each an outstanding beauty in her own right.

    They descended under Qiu Yuexin¡¯s lead, like the most beautiful scenery in the world, refreshing minds and drawing countless admiring nces.

    Even these outstanding young geniuses couldn¡¯t take their eyes off them.

    After all, beautiful things and crowds always attracted attention.

    The crowd whispered among themselves.

    ¡°The Goddess Alliance¡¯s leader, Qiu Yuexin, sure is devastatingly beautiful. Calling her the number one beauty of the entire Hong Domain isn¡¯t an exaggeration. If I could get close to her, it would be worth it, even if it meant dying.¡±

    ¡°Dream on! Although people like us can be called outstanding talents, how can we bepared to Qiu Yuexin? I¡¯m afraid only someone like Prince Li Yao of the Great Li Imperial Court is worthy of her.¡±

    Chen Fan also saw Qiu Yuexin and felt very shocked.

    Qiu Yuexin not only had unmatched beauty but also formidable strength.

    Although she wasn¡¯t as powerful as Li Yao, she had most likely reached the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, making her a fairy with both beauty and strength.

    ¡°The Saber Sword Alliance has alsoe!¡±

    Another group arrived majestically. Every member of this group specialized in either the sword or the saber.

    They all had either overwhelming sword or saber intent. When they arrived, the crowd felt as if the air had be sharp.

    The group was led by a white-clothed man with an ordinary appearance. He carried a sword on his back and did not emit any shocking aura. His steps were confident and rxed, giving off a unique presence.

    He was Gongsun Zhong, the leader of the Saber Sword Alliance and the top disciple of Great Li Sword Mountain.

    The Saber Sword Alliance was cofounded by Gongsun Zhong and the number one genius of the Twilight Mountain Empire¡¯s Swift Lightning Saber Sect, Si Kong. One wielded a sword, the other a saber, and together they were unbeatable. However, Si Kong was nowhere to be found among the group.

    ¡°Another seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s irises shrank slightly when he saw Gongsun Zhong.

    Gongsun Zhong felt like an exceptional sword in its sheath. Once drawn, heaven and earth would be split apart with a single stroke, its sharpness unrivaled.

    Before the crowd could discuss the Saber Sword Alliance¡¯s arrival, another round ofmotion rang out. The Myriad Truths Alliance had arrived.

    The Myriad Truths Alliance was a force jointly established by the Canaan Empire¡¯s number one genius, Xuanyuan Po, and the Heaven Bestowal Empire¡¯s number one genius, Wuyazi. Xuanyuan Po, a youth with a sturdy figure like a horned dragon, and a stalwart appearance, led this group.

    Xuanyuan Po exuded a domineering air, giving off an iparably oppressive feeling.

    ¡°Four of the five major alliances after the reshuffle of powers have shown up, leaving only the Battle Heaven Alliance. I wonder if their alliance leader Yin Jiu will show up?¡±

    ¡°The four major alliances present are all led by their alliance leader or their cofounder. If Yin Jiu doesn¡¯t show up, the Battle Heaven Alliance might struggle to keep up."

    ¡°Regardless of whether Yin Jiu woulde or not, the Battle Heaven Alliance is not to be underestimated. Both their first and second vice alliance leaders are strong enough to manage the situation."

    After the fight for the Martial Dao Will fragments concluded, the forces on the ind went through a major reshuffle of powers. Five alliances emerged as dominant forces, making the other alliances seem insignificant inparison.

    Just as the crowd was murmuring among themselves, the sound of wind breaking filled the air. The object of the crowd¡¯s discussion, the Battle Heaven Alliance, had arrived.

    A majestic lineup of a few dozen people arrived swiftly, led by their two vice alliance leaders.

    The crowd discussed among themselves, looking at the Battle Heaven Alliance members.

    ¡°Yin Jiu actually didn¡¯te!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, their first and second vice alliance leaders are here. They should be enough to control the situation.¡±

    ¡°I heard Nie Tao tracked down Chen Fan a month ago and attacked him, but Chen Fan outsmarted him and crippled one of his arms. I thought it was just a rumor, but it looks like it''s true."

    ¡°Nie Tao is also a remarkable figure. Losing an arm didn¡¯t make him any weaker. Instead, he progressed significantly and broke through to the six-revolution Golden Core realm. How truly terrifying.¡±

    ¡°That first vice alliance leader is called Yun Tao, right? Tsk, tsk, he¡¯s not simple, either. Judging from his aura, I¡¯m afraid he¡¯s already at the peak of the six-revolution Golden Core realm, just a step away from the seven-revolution Golden Core realm.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze swept over the Battle Heaven Alliance, lingering on Nie Tao for a moment longer. A cold light shed across his eyes, but he did not rush over. Now was not the time to seek Nie Tao for revenge.

    With the arrival of the five major alliances, countless people instantly grew excited.

    The eerie atmosphere of the great hall had made them apprehensive, and they hesitated to make any bold moves. They feared that a powerful, vicious creature might emerge and massacre them. But now, things had changed.

    Li Yao and the other top geniuses were all here, all of them being six or seven-revolution Golden Core experts with unparalleled strength. This presence gave the crowd a newfound sense of confidence.

    For small forces like them, their top experts couldn''tpare to the leaders of the five major alliances, and their ordinary members were several levels below.

    The five major alliances had effectively gathered the ind¡¯s most exceptional talents, forming five superpowers. Each member was a top genius and expert.

    Any one of those superpowers could basically sweep away half of the smaller forces on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    That was the difference in power!

    It could not be helped.

    Although all the people here were the top geniuses of the Hong Domain, there was still a gap between one genius and another.

    The top disciples nurtured by the strongest forces of the Hong Domain would naturally be stronger than the top disciples of the other forces. Anything else would beughable.

    It could be said that the five major alliances basically represented the few strongest forces among the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain.

    Chen Fan saw the top three geniuses of the Great Chu Empire¡¯s Geniuses of Heaven Leaderboard, Qi Feifan, Lin Wushang, and Zhantai Liuli, among the five major alliances.

    They were originally in the one or two-revolution Golden Core realm, but now, they were all in the three or four-revolution Golden Core realm. ced among the geniuses here, they weren¡¯t considered weaklings at all.

    Chen Fan saw that they had all joined an alliance: Qi Feifan joined the number one alliance, Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance, Lin Wushang joined the Saber Sword Alliance, and Zhantai Liuli joined the women-only Goddess Alliance.

    Clearly, joining these powerful forces had allowed them to acquire significant benefits.

 Chapter 563 - Attacking the Dao Palace

    <h4>Chapter 563 - Attacking the Dao Pce</h4>

    With the arrival of the five major alliances, the confidence of everyone present soared.

    The eerie great hall, seemingly harboring some vicious creature that could bring about a cmity, now didn¡¯t seem as threatening. And the sole reason for that was the experts of the major alliances.

    Some martial artists were starting to lose patience. After all, they were here to obtain treasures to soar to the heavens and reach the Divine Nascent realm, not to wait around like dolts.

    Were they afraid of the great hall? Yes, but their greed for the treasures inside was starting to surpass their worries about the possible dangers inside.

    To the crowd, the presence of so many people, including Li Yao and other top experts, meant that there was little to fear. They could leave the malevolent spirits to these formidable experts.

    Perhaps this was the so-called courage in numbers.

    If only a few people had been here, the eerie atmosphere of the great hall and their ownck of strength might have left them paralyzed with fear, prompting them to flee rather than pursue the treasures.

    Despite therge number present, no one made a move. The great hall was just too eerie at night, like Yama¡¯s pce. It was as if a supreme demon was inside, striking fear in the people¡¯s hearts. [1]

    Consequently, the crowd decided to wait until dawn.

    It was well known that Yin qi was thick at night, not to mention countless people had lost their lives in the tragic battle on the Hidden Dragon Ind in the past.

    Some remnant thoughts and resentment were bound to be still there. In such an ominous environment, it was likely that something very terrifying had formed.

    This would exin the ghost soldiers patrolling the great hall.

    At least with the arrival of dawn, the increase in Yang qi would ease some of the crowd¡¯s fears.

    The night went by very quickly. As the crowd waited, the next day came. Sunlight shone down, dispersing the eerie aura around the ce.

    As the sky brightened, it was as if the ghost soldiers heard a signal to retreat. They all dissipated and re-entered the great hall.

    This sight caused many people¡¯s eyes to widen in rm, their gazes growing more intense.

    The ghost soldiers had retreated into the great hall, making it a daunting challenge to breach. Yet, many couldn''t hold back any longer.

    ¡°Charge!¡± someone shouted.

    Immediately, hundreds of martial artists rushed toward the great hall like a swarm of locusts, their movement apanied by the constant whooshing of wind.

    However, as the crowd rushed out, the mountain path that led to the great hall suddenly cracked open. The cracking noises sent shivers down the crowd¡¯s spines and made their hairs stand on end.

    From the ground, skeleton jiangshi emerged, their eye sockets flickering with green ghost fires. They attacked the crowd with ferocity, like a wind sweeping away clouds.

    These skeleton jiangshi were formidable, retaining the cultivation levels they had in life, many of them being in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    Miserable screams rang out almost immediately. Several figures exploded, turning into mists of blood.

    The crowd¡¯s actions seemed to have disrupted the slumbering souls here.

    Overwhelming Yin qi rose to the skies, sealing the heavens. It blocked the sunlight, so the temperature in the area plummeted, and chilling winds blew.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Somewhere, arge army was charging, causing the earth to shake intensely. In the next moment, a massive army of ghost soldiers emerged from the great hall, their overwhelming murderous qi rising to the sky.

    ¡°Kill, kill all these demonic beings!¡±

    ¡°Kill, protect the Dao Pce, protect Hidden Dragon Ind!¡±

    ¡°Live and die together with the Hidden Dragon Ind!¡±

    The great hall¡¯s doors suddenly opened. Next, an army of white skeleton jiangshi, riding various skeleton demonic beasts, charged out. They were wieldingnces and dagger-axes and were d in iron armor, shining with a chilling light.

    These skeleton jiangshi mistook Chen Fan and the others for the demonic cultivators who had invaded Hidden Dragon Ind three thousand years ago.

    Nearly a thousand ghost soldiers had surged out, shaking thend. The Yin qi and the ghost qi were so thick they wouldn''t dissipate. They rushed toward the crowd.

    ¡°Damn it, the deceased are treating us as demonic path cultivators, damn it!¡±

    ¡°There are too many of them, and these skeleton jiangshi are all very powerful. How do we deal with them?¡±

    Everyone¡¯s expressions darkened.

    Not everyone on the ind had arrived here. Only three to four hundred had gathered to attack the great hall and seize the treasures. The others were unaware of the situation, exploring other ruins, or had died long ago.

    Now, these three to four hundred people had to face the attacks of close to a thousand skeleton jiangshi. And unfortunately, these skeleton jiangshi were far from weak.

    The skeleton jiangshis were so tough that even treasures couldn¡¯t destroy them for sure. They weren¡¯t an easy bunch to deal with.

    Someone in the crowd roared, ¡°We¡¯ve alreadye this far, are you still thinking of withdrawing? Think about the treasures! With so many skeleton jiangshi here, this ce is definitely an important location. There must be lots of treasure inside.¡±

    Greed once again overtook the crowd¡¯s rationality.

    Why had they participated in the trial?

    Wasn¡¯t it to obtain treasures and gain strength?

    They were unwilling to give up in the face of such difficulties.

    The Yin qi was overwhelming, with dark clouds shrouding the skies in pitch-ckness. Wailing and howling filled the air, creating a nightmarish scene.

    With close to a thousand skeleton jiangshi, battle cries echoed as their iron armor glinted ominously. Murderous qi rose to the skies, sweeping out like a flood. Thends shook, rumbling, striking fear into the people¡¯s hearts.

    It was a shocking scene.

    The skeleton army, almost a thousand strong, darkened the horizon like a flood of steel, crushing everything in their path. Wherever their weapons struck, everything turned to dust.

    A chilling wind whistled, and lightning shed. Numerous tall trees were uprooted and crumbled in the sky. Wood shavings and leaves danced wildly in the air.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The remnant malevolent thoughts of the dead gave rise to howling wind and made the old crows cry mournfully.

    It swept over everything, lifting trees and ancient vines. Evenrge rocks weighing hundreds of kilograms were swept up and thrown into the air.

    The skeleton army harbored deep-seated hatred from their lives for the demonic cultivators who had invaded the ind. Even after three thousand years, their hatred had not diminished; it had only intensified.

    They did not stop for a second to ensure that their opponents were demonic cultivators; they just attacked. In their minds, anyone who wanted to break into the great hall was a demonic cultivator, enemies they had to kill.

    Even though they had already died, this remnant will made them want to defend the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Nothing could stop these fallen cultivators. Wherever their weapons pointed, everything was destroyed, regardless of who the targets were.

    The treasures in the great hall were also very attractive to the crowd.

    Thus, even when facing the skeleton army, the crowd cast aside all concerns and channeled their cultivation, destroying the skeleton army along with their remnant thoughts.

    1. Yama is the King of Hell in Buddhism. ?

 Chapter 564 - Peerless Vicious Creature

    <h4>Chapter 564 - Peerless Vicious Creature</h4>

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo.</i>

    The cold wind howled fiercely, its wail echoing through the air.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The front-line geniuses were instantly thrown back by the oing army of skeletons. Their vitality was drained, they were ripped apart, and fresh blood spilled everywhere.

    The skeleton jiangshi roared in fury, their death qi forming enormous hands that swung down, crushing them to death. The air was filled with continuous, miserable screams.

    However, this ignited the crowd¡¯s ferocity. Their eyes glinted with a fierce, ruthless light.

    Everyone who hade to Hidden Dragon Ind to train and fight for opportunities was a top genius from some empire¡ªamong the best of the best. None of them were weak.

    After nearly two months on the ind, everyone¡¯s strengths had skyrocketed, bing much stronger than before.

    Immediately, powerful attacks erupted, sending a wave of skeleton jiangshi flying.

    Some people channeled their cultivation to transform their qi into a mountain range, pressing down on the skeletons and crushing them to pieces.

    The immense strength of these geniuses was now on full disy.

    They all came from various empires, each a top genius of their respective force. Everyone hade across some miraculous encounters and learned several top martial arts. When these experts unleashed their full power, they became truly terrifying, capable of destroying anything in their path¡ªhuman or divine.

    Many skeleton jiangshi and ghost soldiers were killed at once, reduced to ashes.

    ¡°All of you, get out of my way!¡± shouted Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance¡¯s Li Yao, radiating a regal aura, and soared into the sky. He descended with unmatched authority, leading his allies with unstoppable force.

    ¡°Tyrant Fist!¡±

    Li Yao truly deserved his reputation as the younger generation¡¯s number-one genius. Under Emperor Li¡¯s mentorship, his immense talent made his strength unparalleled.

    His regal aura surged, and a king¡¯s silhouette, crowned and majestic, appeared at his back.

    As Li Yao unleashed his primeval power, he executed the devastating Tyrant¡¯s Fists several times.

    Every strike annihted the skeleton jiangshi and ghost soldiers it hit. Nothing could stop his attacks; they were extremely terrifying.

    Li Yao strode forth imposingly, like an unrivaled king with boundless tyranny. His fists opened the way, sweeping those ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi away like the winds dissipating the clouds. Everything he passed had to retreat before his relentless assault.

    Meanwhile, experts from the Goddess Alliance, Saber Sword Alliance, Myriad Truths Alliance, and Battle Heaven Alliance were also determined to show their might.

    Each alliance acted like a razor-sharp de, cutting through the skeleton army and tearing them apart.

    Everyone here was an elite genius, but the alliance leaders were elites among these elites. When they united their powers, theirbined might was awe-inspiring, capable of shaking the heavens.

    Previously, the crowd had been caught off guard, but now they had regrouped and organized their attack against the skeleton army. Their coordinated assault quickly made an impact as they pushed toward the great hall.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, the ground shook again, and the sound of thousands of horses galloping filled the air. From the great hall, another wave of ghost soldiers and skeletons rushed out like a torrent.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Great Li Sword Mountain¡¯s Gongsun Zhong soared into the air, and with a <i>shing</i>, drew the sword on his back. Sword light shone brilliantly, and even the air became sharper.

    With a single sweep, the silver-white sword light cleaved through the enemy, annihting arge group of ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi.

    Myriad Truths Alliance¡¯s Xuanyuan Po was also unwilling to fall behind. With a wave of his hand, a treasure seal flew out. As it expanded and descended, it crashed into the ghost soldiers. ¡°Suppress!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    With a loud noise, the treasure seal swept over and turned into a huge mountain, smashing down violently. The ground cracked open, shaking thends as if there was an earthquake.

    Over a hundred ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi died tragically on the spot.

    At this time, a crisp voice rang out, ¡°Immortal ying Chakram!¡±

    A clear and cold light blossomed from Qiu Yuexin. A chakram appeared behind her head.

    She picked up the chakram and swung it. The chakram shuttled through the skeleton jiangshi, producing loud explosions.

    Nie Tao and Yun Tao also didn¡¯t want to be weak links, so they made their auras erupt.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    Nie Tao sent out a palm strike, which transformed into arge hand made of divine light. It grabbed arge swathe of skeleton jiangshi and crushed them.

    The leading experts of the five major alliances all executed various methods, erupting with incredibly terrifying strength to hold off the army alone.

    With them in the lead, the crowd made quick progress. The crowd didn¡¯t even have time to be surprised as they rushed to follow the leaders.

    Chen Fan was among the crowd but kept a low profile, revealing only strengthparable to a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert. He didn''t draw attention to himself.

    The group pushed forward, crushing the ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi as they advanced toward the great hall¡¯s doors.

    Previously, when the doors had opened, the skeleton army had surged out and the doors had immediately closed behind them.

    ¡°Open for me!¡± Li Yao took the lead, his aura unmatched. He sent a Tyrant Fist sting over with unrivaled ferocity.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The great hall shook violently, producing a thunderous noise. The impact cracked the seemingly unbreakable doors, demonstrating Li Yao¡¯s overwhelming power.

    ¡°Break!¡± Gongsun Zhong, Qiu Yuexin, and the others did not let up and struck out one after another. The great hall echoed with more deafening crashes as the doors were finally sted open.

    Just as the crowd was about to cheer, even more powerful ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi surged out. Simultaneously, a thunderous roar echoed from within the great hall.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    The roar swept through the air like a tidal wave, creating towering waves of sound that crashed over the crowd. Many faces fell in shock and concern.

    A peerless vicious might erupted from inside the great hall, making the top figures, including Li Yao, react with rm.

    Facing the onught of the ghost soldiers, skeleton jiangshi, and the tumbling giant sonic wave, Li Yao shouted fiercely, his aura rising even higher. He sent out a punch, setting off loud booms in heaven and earth.

    ¡°Open!¡±

    Arge swathe of ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi were instantly annihted. The sonic wave was also destroyed. The great hall shook non-stop from the impact, with cracking noises ringing once more.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, arge hand made of white bones emerged from the great hall, heading toward Li Yao as fast as lightning.

    The resultant gale caught some eighth and ninth-level Core Formation realm experts. These people screamed miserably and blew up, dying on the spot.

    Li Yao¡¯s expression instantly darkened and his cultivation erupted.

    His regal aura blossomed wildly. A king¡¯s silhouette appeared at his back, and he sent out dozens of punches at once, all of them being Tyrant Fist.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang!</i>

    Explosions resounded, finally destroying that oing white bone hand as his figure flew backward.

    Two ghostly mes lit up in the dark great hall.

    The crowd immediately saw a figure walking out. It was a hairy jiangshi, exuding an overwhelming ferocious might, causing the crowd to shiver.

    This was a peerless vicious creature!

 Chapter 565 - Flying Hairy Jiangshi

    <h4>Chapter 565 - Flying Hairy Jiangshi</h4>

    A fearsome creature emerged from within the great hall¡ªa long-haired jiangshi with ghostly fire in its eyes, instilling terror in all who looked upon it.

    The sheer malevolence radiating from this jiangshi was palpable. It felt as if it could turn the world into a hellish wastnd and drench the Tianwu Continent in blood.

    This jiangshi¡¯s aura was so powerful and terrifying that it seemed almost godlike or demonic, capable of instilling mortal fear.

    This was a Flying Hairy Jiangshi at the nine-revolution Golden Core realm. Even though it had just reached this level, its presence was formidable enough to terrify anyone.

    No one present could match this Flying Hairy Jiangshi in a one-to-one battle. Even a five-revolution Golden Core expert would likely be torn apart in a single blow.

    The crowd¡¯s worst fears had materialized.

    This great hall indeed harbored a terrifying vicious creature, the Flying Hairy Jiangshi. It was only a step away from the Divine Nascent realm.

    Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and the others¡¯ expressions grew serious, feeling the immense pressure of facing such a powerful foe.

    On top of this, they still had to fight the other five and six-revolution Golden Core realm skeleton jiangshi and ghost soldiers.

    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s join forces. This Flying Hairy Jiangshi has just advanced to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm and has yet to stabilize its strength. We still have a chance if we join forces. If we don¡¯t, none of us stand a chance against it,¡± Li Yao said with a grave expression.

    He was just a step away from reaching the eight-revolution Golden Core realm. He was the strongest among those present.

    Still, he would be no match for the Flying Hairy Jiangshi unless he advanced to the eight-revolution Golden Core realm. Even then, he would only be able to exchange blows with it.

    ¡°Sure. Our goals are the same, after all. If we don¡¯t get rid of this Flying Hairy Jiangshi, every one of us can forget about entering the great hall. None of you will get your hands on the treasures,¡± Xuanyuan Po said, holding up his Mountain Suppressing Seal that had be much smaller, his expression simrly grave.

    Although this Flying Hairy Jiangshi was iparably terrifying, they were the top geniuses of the Hong Domain, wielding immense power. If they joined forces, they didn¡¯t have to fear the creature. Moreover, they couldn''t give up on the treasures within the great hall.

    ¡°Let¡¯s join forces and get rid of this Flying Hairy Jiangshi!¡± Sword qi swept out from Gongsun Zhong with unequaled sharpness, tearing through space.

    ¡°No objection from me,¡± Qiu Yuexin said. Clear and cold moonlight blossomed from her, making her seem like a fairy who had descended into the mortal world.

    Li Yao and the other top genius experts quickly agreed to join forces to deal with the Flying Hairy Jiangshi.

    ¡°The few of us will deal with this Flying Hairy Jiangshi together. As for the minions, we¡¯ll leave them to you people,¡± Li Yao said. Immediately, their auras surged and they charged toward the Flying Hairy Jiangshi.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡± The faint ghostly fire flickered in the Flying Hairy Jiangshi¡¯s eyes. Ghost qi immediately rose to the skies when it saw Li Yao and the others joining forces and besieging it, enraged.

    The overwhelming corpse Qi transformed into a hand of death and pressed down. It was iparably terrifying.

    ¡°Break!¡± Li Yao and the others¡¯ gazes turned fierce but showed no fear. Their auras were boundlessly powerful, with four seven-revolution Golden Core supreme geniuses, together with Yun Tao, an expert just a step away from the seven-revolution Golden Core realm.

    Their qi shocked heaven and earth, instantly erupting, and made the hand of death swiping at them explode.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill all these skeleton jiangshi and ghost soldiers, and the treasures will be ours!¡±

    ¡°Charge!¡±

    The others roared furiously, channeling their cultivation and charging toward the skeleton army.

    Li Yao and the others were responsible for taking care of the peerless vicious creature, Flying Hairy Jiangshi, while they dealt with the minions, their division ofbor was clear.

    Chen Fan followed behind the crowd, clearing many of the ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi that came from the back.

    The group of experts at the front had torn open a path through the skeleton jiangshi army, but they did not wipe out all these vicious creatures. So, the crowd now had to fight back enemies from both the front and the back.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Battle cries were everywhere, shaking the heavens. Simrly, ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi were all over the ce, rushing over.

    Large swathes of skeleton jiangshi died. However, many human martial artists also fell into a pool of blood, torn to shreds by the skeleton jiangshi. It was quite a brutal picture.

    The humans were numerically disadvantaged. Even though they had fought their way to the great hall¡¯s entrance, they suffered heavy casualties. Many of the five major alliances¡¯ elites fell.

    Chen Fan was at the very back of the crowd, maintaining a steady pace. He was in no rush to be at the front.

    He swung his arm like a dance, forming many true primeval hands that swept out and crushed numerous skeleton jiangshi, disying notablebat prowess.

    However, there were many three-revolution Golden Core experts around. Thus, his performance did not draw attention from the crowd. He was like a tiny ripple in the ocean.

    <i>Woo, woo!</i>

    Two three-revolution Golden Core realm skeleton jiangshi charged toward Chen Fan, each with a dagger-ax in hand, moving as fast as lightning.

    Chen Fan countered with a powerful palm strike, snapping one iron dagger-ax in half.

    His terrifying palm forcended on the jiangshi¡¯s chest, making it explode. Then, he sent out a kick, turning the other jiangshi into powder.

    The battle situation grew increasingly intense, reaching a climax beyond the crowd¡¯s imagination.

    The jiangshi that emergedter were incredibly powerful, with many in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm, causing heavy casualties. Many experts were torn apart alive.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    ¡°Mom! I want to go home!¡±

    ¡°No more, I don¡¯t want the treasures anymore!¡±

    Many people were scared out of their wits.

    However, even more people charged forward fearlessly, killing the skeleton jiangshi like madmen.

    They had already fought their way to the entrance of the great hall. As long as they killed this jiangshi, the treasure inside would be theirs.

    Retreating now would waste all their efforts and mean that many had died in vain.

    Initially, the human forces numbered three to four hundred. Now, only one to two hundred remained.

    Thankfully, the skeleton jiangshi and ghost soldiers were also dwindling in numbers. Many of them were killed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Intense explosions rang out as Li Yao and the others shed violently with the Flying Hairy Jiangshi.

    The Flying Hairy Jiangshi was at the early stage of the nine-revolution Golden Core realm. However, with Li Yao and the others joining forces, it was being beaten back repeatedly.

    After all, they were geniuses among the geniuses, and their identities were extraordinary. Each of them possessed powerful ultimate techniques, and the ability to fight those above their cultivation level.

    The Flying Hairy Jiangshi had just advanced to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, so it was still not able to fully control its powers.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Flying Hairy Jiangshi was sent flying, knocking into the great hall and making a part of it copse. Its chest had caved in, the ghostly fire in its eye sockets flickering between dim and bright.

    When the crowd saw this scene, their morale skyrocketed.

 Chapter 566 - Fight for Ancient Scripture

    <h4>Chapter 566 - Fight for Ancient Scripture</h4>

    The intensity of the battle far surpassed the crowd¡¯s imagination.

    Many ghost soldiers, skeleton jiangshi, and human martial artists met their end and died gruesome deaths.

    ¡°Heck, this ce is a cemetery! Who the hell said there were treasures here?!¡± cursed a martial artist, frustrated and bitter.

    Everyone was on edge right now.

    Initially, they saw each other aspetitors for the treasures, but now, breaking through the great hall¡¯s entrance was the primary concern.

    They started with three to four hundred people; after fighting for a while, half of them had died tragically at the hands of the ghost soldiers and skeleton jiangshi.

    This great hall had be a meat grinder that minced geniuses to death.

    The geniuses on the Hidden Dragon Ind had been selected carefully through a rigorous procedure. They were the best of their generation.

    However, they were now dying like ants. It was a horrible sight.

    And they couldn¡¯t even retreat, as they had paid a huge price to get this close to the great hall¡¯s entrance. They could only march forward, kill all these skeleton jiangshi, and obtain the treasures inside. That was the only way to make their sacrifices worthwhile.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud noise rang out. Thebined forces of Li Yao¡¯s party of five sent the iparably ferocious Flying Hairy Jiangshi flying, knocking down the doors.

    The Flying Hairy Jiangshi was a nine-revolution Golden Core invincible expert, but it still couldn¡¯t withstand thebined might of these elite geniuses. Each of them possessed numerous ultimate techniques. Together, they were a terrifying force.

    ¡°Good!¡±

    The crowd was encouraged when they saw the sorry state of the Flying Hairy Jiangshi. They gathered their strength again and pushed back the skeleton jiangshi, breaking their formation.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°The treasures are inside. Kill all these skeleton jiangshi and it will be ours!¡±

    ¡°What did wee to the Hidden Dragon Ind for? For treasures, for opportunities, for strength! Everyone, step on it!¡± shouted someone, encouraging the crowd.

    Chen Fan shook his head within the crowd.

    People like them shouted to motivate others while hiding among the crowd. They made the others charge and break through the enemy lines.

    Finally, the crowd¡¯sbined efforts forced the skeleton jiangshi to retreat.

    They killed their way into the great hall and found corpses strewn across the floor. These were all corpses that had not been turned into jiangshi.

    And it was now impossible for these corpses to transform into jiangshi, as they had rotted. As the crowd charged in, a wind blew and many of the corpses dissipated to the wind.

    Although the unique environment here made it easy for the dead to turn into jiangshi, those who transformed usually died with strong resentment in their hearts. They absorbed the resentment qi in heaven and earth to transform into jiangshi.

    When the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect¡¯s demonic beings attacked the Hidden Dragon Ind and wiped out its inhabitants, the people died with unresolved grudges, which is why there are so many skeleton jiangshi here.

    However, many were killed instantly, dying before they could form a thought. So, they couldn¡¯t be jiangshi.

    Through theirbined efforts, the crowd fought their way inside and finally arrived at a spacious, empty hall. At its center sat an imposing figure, holding a thin book with only a few pages.

    The crowd immediately halted, their faces filled with shock and uncertainty.

    This ce was where the jiangshi were gathered. This person had an imposing appearance, indicating they were an incredible figure in their lifetime.

    If they had also be a jiangshi, their strength would surpass the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm and possibly reach the Divine Nascent realm.

    Everyone stood frozen in ce, their hearts pounding violently.

    After charging in, the crowd did not see any treasures, only a figure whose status as a jiangshi was uncertain. One could only imagine the tension they felt.

    Li Yao and the others had also in the nine-revolution Golden Core Flying Hairy Jiangshi. They were also staring at this figure with grave expressions, not daring to make any reckless moves.

    Their strength was top-notch, and they could kill the nine-revolution Golden Core realm expert. However, if they had to fight a Nascent realm jiangshi, they would all have to remain here forever.

    The entire hall became strangely quiet for a while.

    <i>Whoo, whoo.</i>

    Suddenly, a gust of chilling wind blew. This figure scattered to the wind like a pile of fine sand.

    It perished!

    Everyone watched this scene in shock.

    This figure did not turn into a jiangshi. Instead, they had perished and vanished in a puff of smoke.

    As this figure dissipated, the scripture in his hand slowly drifted down. There should be some kind of earth-shattering martial art recorded on it: a priceless treasure.

    ¡°This ancient scripture is mine!¡± Li Yao suddenly returned to his senses and immediately moved, taking a wide step forward. His regal aura swept through the heaven, earth, sun, and moon as he instantly grabbed at the ancient scripture.

    ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it!¡±

    ¡°You dare!¡±

    ¡°In your dream!¡±

    Li Yao, Gongsun Zhong, Qiu Yuexin, and the others also simultaneously came back to their senses and made their move. They sent out various attacks at Li Yao.

    Nobody cared about his identity now. Anyone standing in their way of obtaining treasure was an enemy. They had no qualms about attacking the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s prince now.

    ¡°You¡¯re all looking to die!¡± Li Yao instantly grew enraged. His aura surged, shocking heaven and earth. He turned around fiercely and struck out with both fists. Several punches sted out with powerful momentum, their fierce might shook all the celestial bodies.

    He dealt with all the attacks and tried to grab the ancient scripture again.

    Just when the ancient scripture was about to fall into Li Yao¡¯s hands, a rumbling noise rang out. A hill-sized dharma seal descended, rumbling. It crushed the air as it tried to suppress and kill Li Yao.

    It was Xuanyuan Po¡¯s Mountain Suppressing Seal.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Li Yao instantly withdrew, dodging this attack. The Mountain Suppressing Seal struck the ground violently, creating a huge crater on the floor.

    Meanwhile, Xuanyuan Po tried to take the ancient scripture after forcing Li Yao back.

    However...

    ¡°The ancient scripture belongs to whoever is capable! sh!¡± A heaven-shocking sword light tore through space and shed toward Xuanyuan Po like a bolt of lightning. It was like a heaven-splitting sword, capable of destroying everything, ashes to ashes and dust to dust.

    Gongsun Zhong had also struck, going all out.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Xuanyuan Po¡¯s expression darkened. He hurriedly channeled the Mountain Suppressing Seal to block in front of him.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, this ancient scripture is our Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s!¡± Yun Tao¡¯s figure blurred as he unleashed incredible powers that swept through everything.

    ¡°Bastards, do you all want to take our Battle Heaven Alliance as your enemy?¡± Nie Tao sent some martial artists trying to get close flying. Then, his right hand grabbed at the air, turning into a towering hand that swept out at the remaining people.

    ¡°Immortal ying Chakram!¡± Qiu Yuexin was also no weak woman.

    A clear and cold chakram appeared at the back of her head. She looked iparably beautiful but was full of icy killing intent.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    The chakram quickly shed at Nie Tao¡¯s true primeval hand, blowing it up.

 Chapter 567 - Making a Move to Seize the Ancient Scripture

    <h4>Chapter 567 - Making a Move to Seize the Ancient Scripture</h4>

    Everyone fought for the ancient scripture without hesitation, though none of them knew exactly what earth-shaking secret art was recorded in it. Then again, for a presumably great figure to hold it until the end, could it be anything simple?

    As a top force of the Hong Domain three thousand years ago, the Hidden Dragon Ind had peak Heavenly Star realm powerhouses in their ranks. A scripture left behind by such a great force couldn¡¯t be ordinary.

    If the scripture was brought outside, it would immediately trigger a bloody storm. Countless people would take action and try to seize it.

    Now that such a treasure was before them, they had to take it.

    No one cared whether you were a prince from the Great Li Imperial Court or a fairy from the Moon Pce now. Anyone who stood in their way was the enemy. They would fight until theirst breath for it! [1]

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>ng!</i>

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Terrifying sounds and explosions echoed in the hall.

    A whirlwind of energy tore through the great hall, the space roiling like fierce waves, and powerful qi shot out in all directions.

    Words were useless in such situations; only strength could get you your way. And Li Yao had that in spades.

    Chen Fan followed behind, not in a hurry to take action. Like a venomous snake, he observed calmly, ready tounch a lethal blow at a moment¡¯s notice.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The five major alliances had collided for the first time.

    Moments ago, their respective alliance leaders and vice-alliance leaders had been fighting the Flying Hairy Jiangshi. Yet, for the sake of the ancient scripture, they were now at each other¡¯s throats.

    No one held back anything, as they knew that holding back at this stage was the same as handing over the scripture to someone else.

    Although the point ofing to the Hidden Dragon Ind was not to decide the strongest among them, there were definitely a few top figures.

    And those figures were currently fighting with each other,peting for opportunities and trying to decide who was the strongest.

    Competition was inevitable on the road of martial arts, be it for resources or treasures.

    Falling a step behind meant always being behind. No one was willing to be inferior to others.

    If they could obtain this ancient scripture andprehend the power of the great Dao within, raising their cultivation by leaps and bounds, they would be in the lead for hundreds of years.

    One to two hundred people were fighting. The tremendous power sweeping about would kill anyone who got caught in it.

    Aside from Li Yao and the other top geniuses, no one dared to rush out. Without the proper tools, it would be impossible to take on the job.

    Amidst the crowd¡¯s mutual attacks, a three-revolution Golden Core martial artist actually rushed to the front and opened his hand wide, trying to snatch the ancient scripture.

    However, just as he reached out, a terrifying saber light came shing down. It split this three-revolution Golden Core martial artist in half.

    Thepetition was this cruel!

    ¡°Get lost, this scripture is mine!¡± Li Yao roared furiously, his regal aura sweeping over the universe. His supreme aura erupted wildly, blowing up all the surrounding attacks.

    He grabbed at the empty air, producing a spear in his hand. He strode forward unstoppably like a domineering king.

    With a swish, Li Yao, who was running at the front, grabbed the ancient scripture. Suddenly, a slender jade hand also caught a page of the ancient scripture.

    ¡°Li Yao, as a prince of the Great Li Imperial Court, you get guidance from Emperor Li. You could be said to have a distinguished teacher. Not having this one page of the scripture shouldn¡¯t affect you, right? Why don¡¯t you let me have it?¡± Qiu Yuexin¡¯s voice rang beside Li Yao¡¯s ears.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Li Yao shouted angrily. His regal qi transformed into King¡¯s Fist, sting toward Qiu Yuexin. He didn¡¯t have a shred of tender, protective feeling for the fairer sex. He was truly a boundlessly domineering character who killed decisively.

    ¡°This ancient scripture belongs to our Saber Sword Alliance!¡± Another big hand came down, grabbing at it. In the center of the palm was a fierce sword qi, sweeping across and shing.

    ¡°Who dares to stop me, Xuanyuan Po, from taking what I want?¡± Xuanyuan Po¡¯s hand also grabbed onto the ancient scripture.

    ¡°Hoho, this ancient scripture is our Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s possession. Everyone, how about doing us this favor?¡± Yun Tao¡¯s palm also fell onto the ancient scripture.

    The five major forces¡¯ attacks collided fiercely at the center.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying force instantly erupted, setting offyer afteryer of qi waves. They were like monstrous waves, sweeping outward.

    There was no way this ancient scripture could withstand such rough handling. It was instantly torn apart, and five golden papers flew out.

    The five also stopped fighting tacitly, each going after one of those papers and grabbing at them.

    All five of them grabbed a page of the ancient scripture. After seeing the secret technique recorded on it, they immediately grew excited.

    Yun Tao¡¯s cultivation was a notch weaker than Li Yao and the others, thus he was one step slower, but this did not stop him from catching a piece of golden paper.

    However, before he could grab the golden paper firmly, arge golden palm suddenly sted toward him. The air blew up as a result, and a terrifying force descended.

    ¡°Audacious, who dares to make a move against our Battle Heaven Alliance!¡± Yun Tao instantly grew enraged. He turned around and sent a palm strike of his own at thisrge golden palm.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A loud boom rang out. Yun Tao struck out in haste, but his expression changed drastically as he felt an iprehensibly terrifying force from therge golden palm. The force sent him flying.

    Chen Fan finally entered the stage. He reached out and grabbed thest page of the ancient scripture. ¡°This belongs to me.¡±

    ¡°You!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s irises shrank violently when he saw Chen Fan. His aura instantly soared uncontrobly, forming a terrifying whirlwind and swept out.

    ¡°And? What about it? Surprised? I¡¯ve been here for a while, but it seems Vice Alliance Leader Nie didn¡¯t notice me,¡± Chen Fan replied indifferently.

    ¡°Abominable bastard, you¡¯re courting death. How dare you sneak attack me!¡± Yun Tao steadied himself after being sent flying. His eyes instantly turned bloodshot, and his face twisted, looking like an evil ghost.

    Li Yao and the others also stopped fighting, tacitly agreeing to end the conflict.

    Each of them had managed to seize a page of the ancient scripture, which was already a significant oue. It was clear they couldn¡¯t monopolize all the gains, and no one would agree to that.

    The others had no choice but to submit if they joined forces, as they couldn¡¯t overpower thebined strength of the group.

    Could an arm overpower a thigh?

    As such, everyone stopped and watched Chen Fan face off against Nie Tao and Yun Tao with interest. He dared to snatch the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s ancient scripture page so openly. He was truly daring.

    After all, all of them could tell that Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you bastard, how dare you show up here! You¡¯re finished! No one in heaven or earth can save you now, do you understand?!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s gaze turned fiercely resentful, his killing intent boiling.

    1. Moon Pce, also known as Guanghan Pce, refers to the pce on the moon. Legend goes that it is inhabited by the goddess of the moon, Chang¡¯e, the jade rabbit, and the woodcutter Wu Gang. ?

 Chapter 568 - Peerless Ferocious Character

    <h4>Chapter 568 - Peerless Ferocious Character</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan, you bastard, how dare you appear in front of us! You¡¯re done for! You¡¯ll die for sure today! No one in heaven or earth can save you. You understand?!¡± Nie Tao let out a deep growl, roaring like a wild beast.

    Chen Fan was why Nie Tao only had one arm. He even dared to snatch the ancient scripture page from his only remaining hand. This was a big blow to him and the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    Nie Tao¡¯s hatred for Chen Fan was at its peak, a grudge so deep it felt like it could never be washed away.

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I dare to make a move!¡± Chen Fan looked coldly at Nie Tao and said, ¡°Have you forgotten what I said? As long as I am around, your Battle Heaven Alliance will never know peace. Did you think I was joking?

    ¡°But I didn¡¯t expect a cripple like you to escape the Fire Apes¡¯ encirclement. And you even advanced to the six-revolution Golden Core realm? You are quite good. For a cripple, that is.

    ¡°But let me be clear: you will die today. That day when you came to me to threaten and hunt me was the biggest mistake of your life!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s anger red as he recalled being hunted for an entire day and night. The mes of his rage were hard to quench.

    Although he could only obtain many treasures and even increased his cultivation by leaps and bounds thanks to Nie Tao¡¯s pursuit, it wasn¡¯t enough for Chen Fan to drop the idea of killing Nie Tao.

    Some people nearby began murmuring when they heard Chen Fan¡¯s name.

    ¡°He is that Chen Fan? The one who became famous overnight?¡±

    ¡°I heard he took a Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands. What a fearsome character. He actually dared to provoke the two vice alliance leaders of the Battle Heaven Alliance.¡±

    At the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance¡¯s side, Qi Feifan¡¯s gaze flickered when he saw Chen Fan. Neither had he seen Chen Fan earlier, nor had he expected him to be here.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    Among the members of the Myriad Truths Alliance and the Goddess Alliance, Lin Wushang and Zhantai Liuli also noticed Chen Fan, their eyes shing with intrigue.

    ¡°It¡¯s him!¡±

    A member of the Battle Heaven Alliance stepped forward and said, ¡°Quickly hand it over. The ancient scripture is beyond someone like you!¡±

    ¡°Hand over the ancient scripture, and we¡¯ll grant you a quick death!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. You not only have to surrender the ancient scripture but also the Martial Dao Will fragment!¡± added another, their expressions filled with menace.

    Several remaining members of the Battle Heaven Alliance spoke up, their faces twisted with fury.

    ¡°What¡¯s the point in saying so much to a dead man? He dared to oppose our Battle Heaven Alliance. That¡¯s a straight road to hell for him. There¡¯s no forgiving him! We¡¯ll kill him, and after we leave, we¡¯ll hunt down his entire n and eradicate his family!¡± A five-revolution Golden Core expert from the Battle Heaven Alliance stood out.

    Before the major reshuffle of powers on the Hidden Dragon Ind, a five-revolution Golden Core expert was top-tier, capable of dominating an area. However, within the Battle Heaven Alliance, he was now only a small leader.

    ¡°Kill my entire family?¡± An iparably chilling light immediately shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Suddenly, he disappeared from his spot. He appeared in front of the five-revolution expert and delivered a powerful palm strike aimed at his skull.

    This five-revolution Golden Core expert was greatly shocked.

    When he had noticed that Chen Fan was only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm, he did not think much of him. After all, Chen Fan could only take the ancient scripture from them because he ambushed Nie Tao.

    Nie Tao hadn¡¯t told anyone about his fight with Chen Fan or how he had lost an arm. Therefore, the other members of his alliance saw Chen Fan as an ordinary three-revolution Golden Core realm.

    And even if this five-revolution expert had known about Chen Fan¡¯s strength, they wouldn¡¯t have been afraid with the Battle Heaven Alliance members around. They were unprepared for Chen Fan to dare make a sudden move against him in front of so many allies.

    However, just as he reacted to the situation and prepared to counterattack, intending to kill Chen Fan, thetter¡¯s palm had alreadye down. It instantly overpowered his qi and smashed down on his head. Then, an icy voice rang out, ¡°Kill my entire family? With just you?! You suicidal fool!¡±

    As soon as his voice fell, Chen Fan twisted this person¡¯s head off his shoulders.

    A five-revolution Golden Core expert died tragically on the spot!

    The other nearby Battle Heaven Alliance members were frightened by the brutal scene.

    Chen Fan was truly a ferocious figure. He had the audacity to kill one of their own right in front of everyone, showing utter disregard for the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    ¡°And you lot,¡± Chen Fan continued, his voice cold and menacing, ¡°you thought those two weaklings would keep you safe? Today, I¡¯ll ughter you worthless Battle Heaven Alliance scum right in front of them!¡±

    He stepped forth, disappearing from the crowd¡¯s sight and instantly charging into the midst of the Battle Heaven Alliance members.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Many of the Battle Heaven Alliance members were destroyed in form and spirit under Chen Fan¡¯s attacks almost instantly.

    Earlier, Chen Fan had kept a low profile by keeping his real strength hidden, not drawing the crowd¡¯s attention.

    Since he had shed all pretenses, there was no need to hold back. He unleashed his true strength. Killing the Battle Heaven Alliance members was not much different from crushing ants.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance members were elites. Many of them were in the one, two, or three-revolution Golden Core realm, but they still were no match for Chen Fan. They couldn¡¯t even get a proper look at him before meeting their ends.

    ¡°Ah, bastard, you¡¯re asking to die! I want you dead!¡±

    Neither Yun Tao nor Nie Tao could react to the situation, or to put it in another way, they never expected Chen Fan to dare massacre the Battle Heaven Alliance members in front of them.

    By the time they came back to their senses, most of the Battle Heaven Alliance members were dead. Those still alive looked at Chen Fan in horror.

    He was a peerless, ferocious figure who killed with impunity.

    ¡°Bastard, there will be no escape for you, whether in heaven or earth. Our Battle Heaven Alliance will pursue you until you¡¯re dead!¡± Nie Tao roared furiously, causing the air to explode. The great hall was shaken, with dust drifting down.

    Yun Tao did not shout in anger. However, his killing intent was even more terrifying than Nie Tao¡¯s. He exuded a godlike aura of death. He said icily, ¡°There won¡¯t be any ¡®from now on¡¯ for you. Today, right now, is when you¡¯ll die. I¡¯ll rip you to shreds. You won¡¯t even get the chance to be a jiangshi!¡±

    Yun Tao reached his hand out,unching an iparably resplendent and sharp divine light toward Chen Fan.

    He did not hold back at all, wanting to kill Chen Fan.

    Nie Tao was the same. He did a chopping gesture with his right hand. The palm force surged like a raging river, stirring the space.

    Nie Tao was more than ten times stronger than he was a month ago. Despite losing an arm, his cultivation speed on the Hidden Dragon Ind far exceeded the imagination of an average person.

 Chapter 569 - Killing Nie Tao

    <h4>Chapter 569 - Killing Nie Tao</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Two iparably terrifying attacks flew across the sky, shaking both heaven and earth.

    Nie Tao was in thete stage of the six-revolution Golden Core realm, and Yun Tao was at the peak of the six-revolution Golden Core realm. They were both terrifying experts. Their attacks, fueled by intense rage, were even more powerful than usual.

    Even a seven-revolution Golden Core unrivaled expert, an early-stage one, would have to avoid it. It could easily obliterate a six-revolution Golden Core expert to bits.

    Qi Feifan and the others felt a wave of anxiety.

    They were all from the Great Chu Empire and, on Hidden Dragon Ind, they were like a ¡®family,¡¯ even if they weren''t particrly close. Their concern grew as they watched Chen Fan being targeted by Nie Tao and Yun Tao.

    But Chen Fan wasn¡¯t the same person he had been a month ago. He had undergone a dramatic transformation.

    He had already posed a significant challenge to Nie Tao, a five-revolution Golden Core expert, when he had been at the peak of the ninth stage. Now, Chen Fan had reached the three-revolution Golden Core realm.

    If Nie Tao had grown tenfold in strength since then, Chen Fan had be a hundred times stronger, or perhaps even more.

    Chen Fan sent out a palm strike. Boundless golden light blossomed, transforming into arge golden palm. The power of his strike crushed the surrounding space, creating a deafening roar as it shattered Nie Tao and Yun Tao¡¯s attacks.

    He ignored the terrifying storm the attack had produced and strode forth with imposing steps, heading toward Nie Tao.

    His qi and blood were surging and rioting, emitting the cries of ancient giant elephants. He was like the reincarnation of an ancient overlord.

    With the help of Dragon Blood Rice, Chen Fan¡¯s physique was much stronger than when he had just stepped foot on the Hidden Dragon Ind. He was already close to reaching the peak of the fourteenthyer of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    When he unleashed his aura, the crowd¡¯s gaze changed, their expression turning serious. Even Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and the other top geniuses looked solemn. They looked at Chen Fan, whose presence seemed like that of an ancient overlord or a heavenly god, with their brows furrowed in concern.

    Although he was only in the three-revolution Golden Core, he had killed many of the Battle Heaven Alliance members, including several three and four-revolution experts, with ease. This disyed his overwhelming strength and left his opponentspletely helpless.

    Now, Chen Fan was fully unleashing his power. It seemed like a heavenly god had descended into the mortal world, bing an existence that could stand on equal footing with the top experts.

    In this world, might was right. The powerful ruled supreme, a universal truth that applied everywhere.

    ¡°Such powerful aura, such powerful oppressive force... He can¡¯t possibly be just a three-revolution Golden Core expert. No wonder he could grab the Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands. Reputation reflects reality¡ªtruly capable people are not to be underestimated!¡± A light flickered in Li Yao¡¯s eyes.

    As the prince of the Great Li Imperial Court, his status was noble. He was a lot more aristocratic than anyone else present, that was for sure.

    After all, the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Emperor Li was his father, the strongest existence across the entire Hong Domain, an unparalleled powerhouse in the Heavenly Star realm.

    As for him, being Emperor Li¡¯s direct descendant, his status and talent were extraordinary. Ordinary geniuses didn¡¯t even register on his radar.

    His pride was well-earned, as he was the prince of the Great Li Imperial Court. Yet now, someone like Chen Fan, who was only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm, made him feel significant pressure.

    Nie Tao and Yun Tao also felt the weight of Chen Fan¡¯s aura and were taken aback. Nie Tao, in particr, was startled because he had fought Chen Fan before and understood his strength.

    Over the past month, Chen Fan had advanced to the three-revolution Golden Core realm, and his newfound power was even more formidable and mysterious than before.

    His rate of improvement far exceeded Nie Tao¡¯s imagination.

    Chen Fan had already been a challenging opponent a month ago, having even caused Nie Tao to lose his left arm. Now that he was a three-revolution Golden Core expert, he was an even more troublesome opponent.

    Nie Tao¡¯s heart was pounding heavily. Were he and Yun Tao a match for Chen Fan? However, he quickly dismissed the thought

    When he and Yun Tao joined hands, they could fight even a seven-revolution Golden Core expert, let alone Chen Fan.

    Thinking up until this point, killing intent shot out from Nie Tao¡¯s eyes. Someone like Chen Fan could not be allowed to continue growing, or he would severely impact the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Nie Tao shouted. His true primeval surged. With a wave of his right arm, it transformed into a huge mountain, pressing down from the sky to crush Chen Fan into meat paste.

    Today, there was no path for retreat. It was either kill or be killed!

    Yun Tao also channeled his cultivation and swept out. The sky crumbled, the earth cracked, and the sun and the moon lost their light. He attacked Chen Fan fiercely with incredibly terrifying momentum.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you two will definitely die today. This is what happens when you go against me! As for your alliance leader Yin Jiu, since he dares to covet my Martial Dao Will fragment, he is also destined to die! You two won¡¯t be lonely when you go to hell!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm wind surged forward like a dragon, carrying an overwhelming force that seemed to silence all life. The primeval mountain that hade crashing down disintegrated inch by inch.

    ¡°I¡¯ll send you two on your way!¡± A fierce light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    He did a grabbing gesture and the Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in his hands. He pounced forward ferociously, appearing in front of Nie Tao in a sh, and shed down mercilessly.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The terrifying light from the halberd tore through the space, causing Nie Tao¡¯s soul to shiver as if it were being ripped apart.

    Nie Tao roared angrily, realizing that Chen Fan¡¯s aura was deeply affecting his mind. The sense of impending doom was unbearable. He could not ept this fate.

    He was Nie Tao, a top genius!

    ¡°God Destroying Form!¡±

    An earth-shocking aura suddenly erupted from Nie Tao.

    The silhouette of a heavenly god appeared behind him. Wielding a divine mantra in his palm, a terrifying aura swept out.

    ¡°Die for me!¡± Nie Tao roared furiously and thrust his palm forward.

    The divine silhouette mirrored his action, sending a piercing divine light rushing forth as if it could cut through anything.

    Chen Fan showed no signs of fear.

    Even if a real god descended today, he wouldmit the heaven-defying act of ying a god, not to mention this was only a silhouette!

    Chen Fan¡¯s formidable power erupted, effortlessly shredding Nie Tao¡¯s divine light and splitting the silhouette in half.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Nie Tao¡¯s face was full of horror, hearing the beckoning of the god of death.

    He didn¡¯t expect his strength to be socking in front of Chen Fan. Even his strongest move, the God Destroying Form, was torn apart with a single halberd attack.

    He wanted to pull back and retreat, but would Chen Fan give him the opportunity?

    No!

    Before Nie Tao could make a move, the terrifying halberd light had already chopped down, cutting him in half!

 Chapter 570 - Follow Up with Killing Yun Tao

    <h4>Chapter 570 - Follow Up with Killing Yun Tao</h4>

    The surrounding air fell eerily silent. Everyone stared at the corpse in shock, their eyes nearly popping out of their sockets.

    No one had expected Chen Fan to kill ate-stage six-revolution Golden Core realm expert so quickly.

    Suddenly, Yun Tao roared furiously, his roar seemingly shaking the heavens.

    ¡°Ah, you bastard, you killed Nie Tao, how dare you kill him!¡±

    Yun Tao was also stunned by Nie Tao¡¯s sudden death. He hadn''t even had a chance to intervene.

    Anger!

    Boundless anger!

    Anger that burned the heavens!

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Fueled by his intense fury, Yun Tao¡¯s aura surged violently, like boiling water. He instantly soared to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, shocking everyone.

    Nobody had anticipated Yun Tao to advance to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm purely because of his boundless rage at Nie Tao¡¯s death.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to die, bastard. I¡¯ll kill you and make sure you don¡¯t even get a burial!¡± Yun Tao roared, unleashing a terrifying wave of qi that shook the entire great hall.

    ¡°He actually broke through... My god, does anger have such effects?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid! Yun Tao was already at the peak of the six-revolution Golden Core realm. Only a thin barrier kept him away from the seven-revolution Golden Core realm. Nie Tao¡¯s death riled him greatly, and his anger pierced through that barrier. It¡¯s not surprising that he advanced to the next level.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re in for a treat! Chen Fan is an absolutely ferocious figure. Although he¡¯s only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm, his strength is definitelyparable to a seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert. Now that Yun Tao has broken through, he has leveled the ying field. A bitter fight is inevitable.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s pull back a little to avoid getting caught up in this fight. It¡¯d be best if they both end up gravely injured, then we can take advantage of the situation!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but furrow his brow when he sensed that Yun Tao had advanced to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm. However, he wasn¡¯t overly concerned.

    He was eager to test his strength against the newly advanced Yun Tao with his own three-revolution Golden Core cultivation.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying divine st erupted suddenly.

    Chen Fan raised his hand and punched out, crushing Yun Tao¡¯s attack. The force of his punch surged forward, maintaining its violent momentum.

    <i>Rip!</i>

    Like a god or a devil, Yun Tao caught the force of Chen Fan¡¯s punch and ripped it apart violently.

    ¡°You bastard! You beast! Die for me!¡±

    Yun Tao¡¯s aura was iparably berserk. He charged forward and appeared in front of Chen Fan in an instant, striking down with his palm. The impact was so powerful it seemed to shatter the sky, shaking the entire space.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, even if you broke through to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, it won¡¯t change your fate. I¡¯ll send you to reunite with Nie Tao!¡± Chen Fan remained fearless, countering with his Purgatory Divine Halberd, which sliced through Yun Tao¡¯s palm strike.

    ¡°You damned bastard, still acting fierce? I¡¯ll tear off your limbs and make you endure the worst torture in the world. You¡¯ll scream for ten days and nights!¡± Yun Tao grabbed at the air. His true primeval transformed into a spear, and he thrust it down violently, destroying Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    ¡°Great Palm Seal of Myriad Mountains!¡± Yun Tao reached out with his other hand, channeling boundless primeval qi from the heavens and earth. Hepressed and manipted the energy before mming it down, transforming it into a multitude of mountains pressing down on Chen Fan.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s clothing pped loudly. Sensing the tremendous oppressive force descending from above, a fierce light shone in his eyes. He rose into the air, causing the air to explode.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s right arm bulged with power as he executed the Heaven Piercing Thrust. The winds and clouds were driven back, and the sky itself seemed to crack under the force.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    The true primeval mountains crumbled instantly, scattering into primeval qi.

    Yun Tao¡¯s expression darkened. He quickly retreated by stepping on the air to escape the shockwave¡¯s impact.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Chen Fan shouted, then strode forth with imposing steps, his momentum unparalleled. He cleaved through the storm of shockwaves with his halberd and thenunched another sh at Yun Tao.

    Yun Tao sensed a deathly aura and quickly channeled his cultivation. Stepping on immortal clouds and with the starry field above his head, his hand curled in and tore the skies.

    ¡°Arrogant w!¡±

    A w flew out from the void, its qi shaking the space. A straight divine light pierced through space-time that made the space blow up.

    This attacknded on the Purgatory Divine Halberd like a blow meant to copse the sky¡¯s pir. Chen Fan shook slightly.

    A seven-revolution Golden Core expert was indeed terrifying. Even though Yun Tao had only just advanced to this realm, his power was immense, vastly different from before.

    Even so, Chen Fan stood his ground, unmoving like a mountain, enduring the onught of wind and rain. The battle reached its peak as both fighters exhausted all their techniques.

    Though Chen Fan was only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm, his strength was not inferior to Yun Tao¡¯s seven-revolution Golden Core realm strength.

    He was a true monstrous genius. No one dared to believe that a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert could fight a seven-revolution Golden Core supreme expert to this extent.

    Chen Fan charged ferociously toward Yun Tao and unleashed a palm strike.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Yun Tao¡¯s bones nearly shattered, and he screamed in agony, spitting out a mouthful of blood. He pulled back a hundred meters, dodging Chen Fan¡¯s deadly halberd attack.

    Yun Tao trembled with fear in his heart.

    Despite his advancement to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, he was still no match for Chen Fan and had been injured by him. The stark contrast was maddening, making him feel like vomiting blood in frustration.

    ¡°You must die!¡± Chen Fan chased after Yun Tao,unching several terrifying killing moves, filling the space with deadly halberd light everywhere.

    The halberd lights seemed to weave an inescapable of heaven and earth, trapping Yun Tao and leaving him with no way to escape.

    When the crowd saw this scene, their hearts trembled violently.

    Each streak of the deadly halberd light felt like a threat to their own lives. Even a five or six-revolution Golden Core expert would be cut in half by a single one of those attacks.

    It was too terrifying!

    <i>Pfft</i>! Yun Tao spewed out another mouthful of fresh blood.

    A deep gash opened on his waist, blood pouring out. If he hadn¡¯t dodged quickly, Chen Fan¡¯s halberd would have cleaved him in two with one strike.

    Yun Tao¡¯s rage had dissipated, reced by sheer fear. He didn¡¯t want to fight Chen Fan any longer. If this continued, he would surely die.

    Chen Fan, seeing through Yun Tao¡¯s thoughts, sneered coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t think of running. You won¡¯t get away today. Not even the Buddha descending can save you. You will die for sure!¡±

    His aura boiled like water. He charged forward like a heavenly god, swinging his arm wildly. The Purgatory Divine Halberd danced in the air, setting off strong winds. Terrifying halberd lights were everywhere, sealing heaven and earth.

    Yun Tao was in utter despair, realizing there was no chance of escape.

    Just as Yun Tao was preparing for a desperate strike, the terrifying halberd lights converged into a single, formidable beam, capable of cutting through heaven and earth.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The attack literally made Yun Tao disintegrate, turning him into a mist of blood.

 Chapter 571 - Green Lotus Sword Scripture

    <h4>Chapter 571 - Green Lotus Sword Scripture</h4>

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The halberd came down with the power to destroy heaven and earth. It made the world lose its color and the crowd¡¯s souls tremble. Yun Tao blew up, turning into crimson mist, leaving no corpse behind.

    Everyone was stunned.

    Yun Tao was a newbie seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert, but that didn¡¯t mean he was a weak one. Yet, Chen Fan killed him just like that.

    This blow was a devastating double whammy for the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    Not only had they failed to seize the ancient scripture, but they had also lost their top elites, including their first and second vice alliance leaders.

    Chen Fan could kill top executive-level figures of the five major alliances like they were chicks, without any influence of luck.

    This was a clear reflection of his overwhelming strength. Even if given another chance, Nie Tao and Yun Tao, both vice alliance leaders, would be no match for him.

    Everyone was shocked to the core.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance would most likely go crazy once this news spread, and the entire Hidden Dragon Ind would be shaken.

    Now that the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s first and second vice alliance leaders were dead, as the alliance leader, Yin Jiu would have no choice but to take action. In the future, Chen Fan would have an even more intense collision with the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    Everyone knew that the Battle Heaven Alliance would not let this go unpunished.

    After all, Chen Fan hadpletely fallen out with the Battle Heaven Alliance. There was no possibility of turning back at all. This grudge would only end when one side was dead or disbanded.

    The gazes of Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, and Xuanyuan Po, the four top experts, fell on Chen Fan with a touch of seriousness. They took note of him with utmost attention.

    Chen Fan¡¯s attack on Yun Tao had even managed to rattle them.

    Although Yun Tao had broken through to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm,pared to them, there was still quite arge gap.

    Yun Tao''s strength had surged due to his rage, pushing him into a quasi-seven-revolution Golden Core realm. However, his power was not fully controlled. Compared to experts like them, who were firmly in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm and far beyond the early stages, the gap was very significant.

    Chen Fan could defeat a quasi-seven-revolution Golden Core realm like Yun Tao, but it was unclear if he could match them. Nheless, Chen Fan¡¯s attack conveyed a strong sense of danger and earned their respect.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level was only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm, but he was as strong as someone in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, unlike Yun Tao¡¯s quasi-seven-revolution Golden Core. His capability to kill Yun Tao proved his prowess.

    They all viewed Chen Fan as an equal now, someone who could not be underestimated.

    However, they did not have any feud with Chen Fan and thus did not have any intentions of making a move against him.

    Chen Fan had highbat strength, a Martial Dao Will fragment, and a page of the ancient scripture, making top geniuses thoroughly acknowledge him. Chen Fan had the qualifications to possess such treasures.

    Meanwhile, the other martial artists who were restless and wanted to fish in troubled waters, or perhaps even attack Chen Fan from all sides, had all shrank their heads back.

    Chen Fan was too frightening at this moment, his aura overwhelming. If these people dared to make a move, they would definitely be killed. None of them would be able to escape by a fluke.

    Thus, they had no choice but to give up on their ideas.

    The ancient scripture page was important, but not more so than their life. They weren¡¯t foolish or suicidal enough to attack Chen Fan despite knowing they couldn¡¯t defeat him for sure.

    And the mere fact that they were here, on the Hidden Dragon Ind, proved that they were anything but fools.

    Chen Fan was not in a hurry to leave. Instead, he stood with his hands at his back, looking iparably domineering.

    The ancient scripture was probably the most valuable thing in the Dao Pce. But now that it had been divided up between Chen Fan and the four strongest figures, the crowd did not stay around any longer and went to the other halls to take any other treasures.

    Although the pce was not considered big, there were still many halls.

    Li Yao and the others also left quickly. Everyone seized the time to search for more opportunities and treasures to raise their strengths.

    The stronger one was, the more power they would have on the Hidden Dragon Ind. And that, in turn, would bring them greater benefits. This was the unchanging truth.

    Naturally, Chen Fan also had the same intention. He quickly moved, rushing into the other halls like the autumn breeze sweeping the fallen leaves.

    ......

    Chen Fan appeared in a valley.

    The great hall did not have many good things aside from the ancient scripture.

    He did not obtain anything useful, so he left and came here.

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged on the ground and then began examining his ancient scripture page.

    The entire page of the ancient scripture was written in ancient seal script. It was filled with an ancient aura.

    When Chen Fan¡¯s gaze fell onto the ancient seal script, he immediately felt a fierce sword intent erupting from the characters. The intensity of the sword intent pierced his eyes, causing a sharp pain.

    ¡°The words actually contained sword intent!¡±

    Chen Fan immediately shut his eyes and channeled his true primeval, refining the sword intent that had rushed into his eyes. He opened his eyes again after a while, a fierce luster shing across them.

    The presence of sword intent in the script indicated that the author had reached an extraordinary level of cultivation. Such a feat was beyond the capability of a Divine Nascent realm expert; it could only be achieved by a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse who hadprehended a Martial Dao Will.

    In other words, this was written by a powerhouse who was at least in the Heavenly Star realm.

    Despite the passage of three thousand years, the sword intent still radiated immense power, revealing that the author was far from an ordinary Heavenly Star realm expert.

    Channeling true primeval to his eyes, Chen Fan continued reading it. He soon realized that this ancient scripture page recorded a sword manual, named the Green Lotus Sword Scripture. It was an incredibly powerful, heaven-tier martial art.

    This Green Lotus Sword Scripture was divided into fifteenyers, with the first sixyers being the foundation.

    At the seventhyer, one could cultivate three streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi in their body, which could destroy everything when unleashed. At the tenthyer, one could cultivate six streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi. At the thirteenthyer, this number increased to nine streaks. The fourteenthyer allowed for the cultivation of Lotus Heart Sword Qi, and at the fifteenthyer, the Lotus Heart Sword Qi would be inexhaustible.

    Chen Fan was shocked in his heart.

    Typically, martial arts were defined by the qi they produced, which was named ordingly. For example, the qi produced by the Shocking Cloud Sword Art would be called Shocking Cloud Sword Qi, the qi from the Raging Inferno Palm would be called Raging Inferno Palm Qi, and the qi from the Green Lotus Sword Scripture would naturally be called Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    Usually, these types of qi require channeling one¡¯s true primeval energy. However, the Green Lotus Sword Scripture seemed to transcend this limitation, allowing one to form the Green Lotus Sword Qi and Lotus Heart Sword Qi in their body.

    That meant that Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t have to use a sword after reaching the seventhyer. He could send out Green Lotus Sword Qi with just his finger or any other body part.

    And given the formidable nature of this technique, its power would be exceptionally strong.

    As Chen Fan continued reading on, he learned that the Green Lotus Sword Qi cultivated with the Green Lotus Sword Scripture did not possess high destructive power in the beginning stages.

    After umting and nurturing it, however, its offensive ability would be off the charts, perhaps even exceeding the user¡¯s attack power. Not only that, with every advancement to the nextyer, the Green Lotus Sword Qi would experience a qualitative improvement.

 Chapter 572 - Killing Order

    <h4>Chapter 572 - Killing Order</h4>

    ¡°Good stuff, truly good stuff!¡± Chen Fan sighed emotionally, feeling a strong urge to start cultivating right away.

    Even though he wasn¡¯t a swordsman, his training was quite diverse, including swordy, halberd, and spear techniques. He wasn¡¯t attached to any single martial art.

    This Green Lotus Sword Scripture would be a priceless treasure to a sword cultivator like Gongsun Zhong, worth more than a thousand gold. The same could be said for Chen Fan.

    The Green Lotus Sword Scripture was a heaven-tier martial art!

    ¡°My ancient scripture page has such a powerful sword scripture. I wonder what kind of martial arts Li Yao and the others got?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze flickered.

    Based on what he knew, Li Yao and the others must also have obtained exceptional martial arts, likely heaven-tier martial arts. Chen Fan wanted to snatch their pages, but he could only think about it for now.

    After all, Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and the others were among the best on Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s strength had greatly increased, matching that of a seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert, he was still likely to fall shortpared to Li Yao and the others.

    Yun Tao had advanced to the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, but his cultivation remained unstable and out of control. He was more of a quasi-seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert, which allowed Chen Fan to defeat him.

    Had he been an experienced seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert with stable cultivation, it would have been very difficult for Chen Fan to defeat him.

    This was Chen Fan''s conclusion about his strength after the battle at the Dao Pce, the great hall. He was onlyparable to a seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert at the early stage.

    <i>It¡¯s still not enough. It would be best if I could break through to the Divine Nascent realm before the trial ends.</i> Chen Fan thought, though he knew achieving this goal would be very challenging.

    Despite the excellent cultivation environment on Hidden Dragon Ind, with its abundance of treasures helping Chen Fan rapidly increase his cultivation, breaking through to the Divine Nascent realm would still be difficult without more Dragon Marrow.

    After all, when Chen Fan first set foot on Hidden Dragon Ind, the gap in cultivation between him and other top geniuses like Li Yao was immense.

    Conversely, Li Yao might well break through to the Divine Nascent realm before the trial ended.

    Even so, Chen Fan was not in a rush.

    Reaching the Divine Nascent realm might be tough. However, if his Myriad Elephants Divine Art could advance to the fifteenthyer, it would enable him to confront a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse using his physical strength. He wouldn¡¯t be one himself, but he would be nearly as formidable.

    With this in mind, Chen Fan took out several grains of Dragon Blood Rice and swallowed them.

    ......

    The appearance of the well-preserved Dao Pce had sent the entire Hidden Dragon Ind into an uproar.

    The five pages of the ancient scripture were taken by five ferocious characters; surprisingly, the Battle Heaven Alliance wasn¡¯t one of them. Thest party was Chen Fan, someone who had risen to fame after taking the ninth Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands.

    Chen Fan became famous overnight on the Hidden Dragon Ind after that. However, in the following days, he didn¡¯t make any big moves.

    Despite widespread searches for him by those hoping to seize the Martial Dao Will fragment, no one could locate him. Thus, many people thought that Chen Fan had gone into hiding.

    Given the vastness of Hidden Dragon Ind, it was rtively easy for someone to conceal themselves and avoid detection.

    Although many people cursed Chen Fan for being sly, attention quickly shifted to the major power shifts among the alliances, and his presence was gradually forgotten.

    Rumors circted that Chen Fan was being hunted by Nie Tao, the second vice alliance leader of the Battle Heaven Alliance, and had died long ago.

    However, Chen Fan made a dramatic return. What was even more stunning was that his appearance was apanied by the news of the deaths of two Battle Heaven Alliance vice-alliance leaders.

    Chen Fan had not only seized the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s ancient scripture page, he had also killed two of their vice alliance leaders on the spot, showing unmatched ferocity andplete disregard for the Battle Heaven Alliance. He even vowed to send the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s leader, Yin Jiu, to hell.

    He had thoroughly shaken the Hidden Dragon Ind this time, spreading his fearsome name among the martial artists.

    Previously, Chen Fan was only somewhat known, but now he was regarded as a top expert,parable to Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and other top geniuses.

    It was clear to everyone that the Battle Heaven Alliance had not only failed to gain any advantages at the Dao Pce great hall but had also suffered significant losses, including numerous casualties. This double blow was entirely med on Chen Fan, and the situation was far from over.

    The anticipation was high for the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s response to Chen Fan.

    Sure enough, the Battle Heaven Alliance did not disappoint the crowd. News spread that, over the next forty to fifty days, they would relentlessly pursue Chen Fan. They promised a Nine Aperture Golden Pill as a reward for any information leading to him.

    Moreover, anyone who could kill Chen Fan would be promoted to vice alliance leader,manding three armies.

    This announcement created a sense of looming danger, as if a massive storm were about to hit Hidden Dragon Ind. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and many felt a shiver of apprehension.

    Although the Battle Heaven Alliance suffered significant losses at the Dao Pce great hall, losing many elite members and their two vice alliance leaders, their core strength remained intact. As one of the five major alliance forces, their foundation was strong. Despite their heavy losses, their core power was not deeply affected.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance had issued a brutal killing order on Chen Fan. No one doubted their seriousness or believed the alliance would crumble so easily. They all thought that Chen Fan would most likely be under heavy pressure after learning of this news.

    As word of the killing order spread, the entire Hidden Dragon Ind stirred. Many people began moving, searching for Chen Fan.

    They were not seeking to kill Chen Fan. As long as they found him and informed the Battle Heaven Alliance of his location, they could get a Nine Aperture Golden Pill. That was worth taking the risk.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan was in a cave, intensely cultivating the Green Lotus Sword Scripture and nurturing the Green Lotus Sword Qi within him. He waspletely oblivious to the outside situation.

    In fact, Chen Fan had anticipated the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s reaction. It was exactly what he expected. He was not worried at all, nor was he afraid of the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    As long as he raised his strength, let alone the Battle Heaven Alliance, he wouldn¡¯t be afraid of even Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance. Strength was the ultimate determinant of everything.

    Chen Fan circted the true primeval inside him ording to the Green Lotus Sword Scripture¡¯s cultivation method, faintly emitting an extremely sharp aura. That was a faint trace of the Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    As he cultivated, the flow of qi around him vaguely formed the shape of a green lotus. It was very magical.

 Chapter 573 - Combat Strength Soars

    <h4>Chapter 573 - Combat Strength Soars</h4>

    Various insights into the Green Lotus Sword Scripture emerged in Chen Fan¡¯s mind as he slowly grasped its secrets. His rate ofprehension was monstrous.

    This was not surprising. Having obtained a Martial Dao Will fragment, even a superficial understanding of it had immensely benefited him.

    A Martial Dao Will fragment was the embodiment of a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse¡¯sprehension of a Martial Dao Will. It was like having a Heavenly Star realm mentor analyzing and exining the profundities of the Green Lotus Sword Scripture to him.

    Furthermore, Chen Fan¡¯s natural talent was already extraordinary; with the fragment¡¯s assistance, his swift progress rate seemed reasonable.

    As for the outside conflicts and shifting dynamics, Chen Fan paid them no mind.

    While it would be difficult for an alliance to conceal itself, a lone martial artist like him could easily hide on the vast ind. Avoiding detection was a simple matter for Chen Fan.

    Thus, Chen Fan was not afraid of them finding him. The ind was enormous, and as long as he moved a bit further away, they would be unable to find him.

    Days passed, turning into weeks until a month had gone by.

    ¡°Green Lotus appears!¡± Chen Fan flicked a finger of his right hand, and a streak of sword qi immediately shot out.

    <i>Chi!</i>

    A green lotus appeared in the air, transformed into sword qi, and shot out. It drew a deep mark on the cave wall, extending all the way to the top.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, the sound of the earth trembling rang out, as if it was about to copse. The entire cave shook violently, with pieces of rocks falling.

    Before Chen Fan could react to the situation, the cave instantly copsed, burying him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A powerful aura erupted, sending debris flying and turning it into dust. Chen Fan emerged, covered in dirt.

    ¡°Is this for real? I just tested it lightly and made a cave copse? Luckily, my cultivation is deep. Had a Yuanfu realm expert been here, they would have been crushed to bits.¡± Chen Fan smiled bitterly, shaking his head. With a quick shake, he cleared the dirt on him.

    Despite the mishap, Chen Fan was pleasantly surprised. The Green Lotus Sword Qi was indeed formidable. A casual test had destroyed the cave.

    ¡°Very well, after a month, I am at the seventhyer of the Green Lotus Sword Scripture, having nurtured three streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi inside me. Not bad, not bad.¡±

    Chen Fan was very happy.

    Although he used one of them, leaving only two, he felt very satisfied with its power. The past month had not been wasted.

    Chen Fan¡¯s achievements over the past month were not limited to just the Green Lotus Sword Scripture.

    After consuming arge amount of Dragon Blood Rice, his Myriad Elephants Divine Art reached the peak of the fourteenthyer a few days ago. He was now only one step away from breaking through to the fifteenthyer and achievingplete mastery.

    Unfortunately, he was unsure when he would be able to make this final breakthrough, as his remaining Dragon Blood Rice couldn¡¯t help him advance to the fifteenthyer.

    Aside from this, his cultivation had also progressed. He was now a four-revolution Golden Core realm expert.

    ¡°Given my current strength, I should be equal to an eight-revolution Golden Core expert, right?¡±

    Chen Fan was very satisfied with the results he had achieved over this past month, feeling like he hadn¡¯t wasted his month.

    In one month, his strength had gone up several steps.

    Of course, he also knew that while he was improving, so were others. Li Yao and the others have most likely also broken through to the eight-revolution Golden Core realm, not to mention they also had a page of the ancient scripture. Owing to that, they would be much stronger than other eight-revolution Golden Core experts.

    ¡°I wonder what the situation outside is like now? More than half of the hundred-day trial has passed, with fewer than twenty days left. I¡¯m afraid it would be impossible for me to break through to the Divine Nascent realm in the remaining time.

    ¡°I¡¯ll put all my effort into pushing the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fifteenthyer and achieveplete mastery then. With my current strength, hunting down those six or seven-revolution Golden Core great demonic beasts won¡¯t be a problem. I¡¯ll refine the true dragon bloodline in them to cross over this final threshold!¡±

    After making up his mind, Chen Fan did not waste any more time and left the valley, heading toward the depths of the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    The closer he got to that ghost mountain, the more demonic beasts he would find. These beasts were stronger, and those with true dragon bloodlines were moremon.

    Previously, he hadn¡¯t dared venture into this area due to hisck of strength, but now, with his increased power, he felt much more confident.

    In this forest, waves of beast roars shook the space.

    This ce was the territory of ligers, with a pride of them living here.

    However, disaster struck the pride of ligers. They possessed true dragon bloodlines, and Chen Fan had no intention of letting them escape.

    The liger king was very powerful, in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, with its own consciousness. Itmanded a pride of ligers and dominated an area.

    The liger king was currently covered in blood, its flesh cut open. Its beastly eyes were blood red, staring at Chen Fan. It roared furiously, ¡°Human, my n has no grievances with you, why are you hunting down my nsmen so brutally!¡±

    Chen Fan snapped his fingers and said heedlessly, ¡°What reason would I need! Wouldn¡¯t you also want to devour me to increase your strength? The true dragon bloodline inside you is exactly what I need. That¡¯s all there is to it.¡±

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>, ah, I¡¯ll fight you to the death!¡± The liger king roared furiously, then suddenly pounced at Chen Fan ferociously. Its demonic qi covered the sky, and its ferocious might filled the sky.

    ¡°Fight me to the death? Did you think you¡¯re worthy? Just die! To be able to be the nourishment to raise my cultivation is a blessing for a beast like you.¡±

    Chen Fan shed down violently and mercilessly with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in his hand, tearing the space apart.

    The liger king¡¯s demonic qi was sliced apart like a rag under the halberd¡¯s power, and its massive frame was split in half.

    Chen Fan grabbed at the empty air and brought the liger king¡¯s corpse to him. The heaven-refining mes erupted and refined the liger king¡¯s corpse, leaving only four to five drops of true dragon blood behind.

    ¡°Not bad. Five drops of true dragon blood. This liger king¡¯s bloodline is quite powerful,¡± Chen Fan noted, collecting the five drops of true dragon blood.

    He continued deeper into the ind, knowing that five drops were far from enough to push his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fifteenthyer ofplete mastery. He needed more, as much as he could gather.

 Chapter 574 - Imminent Huge Battle

    <h4>Chapter 574 - Imminent Huge Battle</h4>

    While Chen Fan was advancing toward the ghost mountain, ughtering demonic beasts and refining true dragon blood, a piece of news caused a major upheaval on Hidden Dragon Ind.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance had captured a disciple named Xiao Zhen.

    They demanded that Chen Fane to their base within three days or face the death of Xiao Zhen.

    No one expected that the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s hunt for Chen Fan would escte in this way. Ever since they issued the killing order, many had searched for Chen Fan¡¯s whereabouts for a whole month without finding a trace of him.

    Frustration mounted within the Battle Heaven Alliance.

    Luo Qian, who had recently joined the Battle Heaven Alliance, proposed a n to Yin Jiu: capture Xiao Zhen and use him as leverage to force Chen Fan into the open. He was aware of the deep friendship between Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen.

    When Chen Fan had severed all ties with Flying Eagle Alliance, Xiao Zhen had a fierce argument with Luo Qian and nearly fought him over it.

    Yin Jiu was also a decisive person. He knew that if Chen Fan was intent on hiding, their chances of finding him would be very slim unless they turned the ind upside down.

    With fewer than twenty days remaining in the trial, it would be increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to eliminate Chen Fan in time.

    Chen Fan had killed both of their vice alliance leaders, not giving any face to their Battle Heaven Alliance. Yin Jiu could not take that lying down. He was determined to kill Chen Fan. The killing order wasn¡¯t a joke.

    Thus, the Battle Heaven Alliance immediately sprang into action. Yin Jiu took action personally and captured Xiao Zhen alive.

    Yin Jiu even made his alliance members capture everyone from the Great Chu Empire to use them to threaten Chen Fan. Consequently, many disciples from the Great Chu Empire found themselves in trouble.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect the Battle Heaven Alliance would resort to such despicable tactics to force Chen Fan out. I wonder if he willply.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, haven¡¯t you heard? Those who aplish great things, do not bother about the small details! I think Chen Fan has probably gone into hiding and wouldn¡¯t dare toe out.¡±

    ¡°Xiao Zhen and those Great Chu Empire disciples sure are unlucky. They got caught just because they knew Chen Fan and came from the same empire. They¡¯ll most likely die.¡±

    ¡°But you have to admit, Luo Qian is truly despicable and shameless! I heard he formed the Flying Eagle Alliance with Xiao Zhen and the Goddess Alliance¡¯s Liu Xin previously. They wererades in arms, and now he sold out his exrade. Truly disgraceful.¡±

    ¡°Who cares? These matters have nothing to do with us. Let¡¯s just treat it as watching a good show.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    On Hidden Dragon Ind, many people were abuzz with the news. They spected whether Chen Fan would appear or not.

    ......

    By the time Chen Fan learned of this news, two days had already passed.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    After killing a group of demonic beasts and refining about ten drops of true dragon blood, Chen Fan entered a valley to rest, only to encounter people from Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance.

    Qi Feifan said, ¡°You¡¯re actually here. Do you know about what happened on the ind recently?¡±

    Puzzled, Chen Fan asked, ¡°What happened? I was in secluded cultivation until two days ago. And I have been hunting demonic beasts here, in the depths, since then. Has something major happened?¡±

    Li Yao came over and said, ¡°So, you really don¡¯t know. A month ago, the Battle Heaven Alliance issued a killing order against you. When they couldn¡¯t find you, Luo Qian suggested capturing Xiao Zhen and some others from the Great Chu Empire to use as leverage. They demanded that youe to their base within three days to face your death. If you don¡¯t, Xiao Zhen and the others will die in your ce. Two days have already passed since the word spread.¡±

    ¡°What? The Battle Heaven Alliance is actually this despicable!¡± Chen Fan was astonished when he heard this.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance searching for him was expected. But he didn¡¯t expect them to resort to such underhanded tactics.

    ¡°It¡¯s Luo Qian again. I spared his worthless life thest time on ount of Xiao Zhen. I didn¡¯t expect him to dare act up again. He¡¯s really courting death!¡± Killing intent surged in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression darkened, and he said, ¡°My friendship with Xiao Zhen isn¡¯t particrly deep, nor is my rtionship with the others from the Great Chu Empire. Wouldn¡¯t they have worked for nothing if I didn¡¯t show up? And would even have to bear the reputation of killing the innocent indiscriminately?¡±

    Li Yao said, ¡°And you will be dubbed a coward. Someone who abandoned their friends to save their own hide.¡±

    ¡°What a ruthless tactic!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    Li Yao said, ¡°What will you do? There¡¯s only one day left until the three-day deadline.¡±

    Killing intent swirled around Chen Fan, and he said, ¡°Since they want to die so badly, I¡¯ll grant their wish!¡±

    Chen Fan already had an irreconcble feud with the Battle Heaven Alliance and had previously vowed to settle scores with them.

    Given that, there was no turning back. He was prepared to face any danger, whether it was a dragon¡¯s den or a tiger¡¯sir.

    Although he wasn¡¯t particrly close to Xiao Zhen or the other captured disciples, their deaths would be indirectly because of him, which troubled him. He didn¡¯t want to be responsible for innocent lives lost.

    ¡°It seems like you¡¯ve made up your mind. But remember, Yin Jiu is strong. He¡¯s in the eight-revolution Golden Core realm, and the alliance base is packed with experts. It¡¯ll be a tough fight,¡± Li Yao warned.

    ¡°Eight-revolution Golden Core, huh?¡± Chen Fan''s gaze sharpened.

    As expected, everyone was improving rapidly.

    For instance, Li Yao¡¯s strength had also increased significantly over the past month, likely nearing the nine-revolution Golden Core realm.

    ¡°I understand, but even if he¡¯s an eight-revolution Golden Core, Yin Jiu has to die!¡± Chen Fan said with determination.

    ¡°You¡¯re pretty confident,¡± Li Yao said calmly.

    Chen Fan dismissed further discussion and asked, ¡°Do you know where the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s base is?¡±

    Li Yao quickly provided the location of the base.

    Chen Fan did not hesitate andunched himself into the air, his Wings of Rain Dragon unfurling and stirring up a storm. He shot off as a streak of light, vanishing from sight.

    After a brief thought, Li Yao led the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance members and headed toward the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s base.

    ¡°We¡¯re in for a treat! Come on, we¡¯ll go take a look and see whether the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s scheme would seed or Chen Fan would ughter them all!¡±

    No one would want to miss a good show.

 Chapter 575 - Chen Fan is Here

    <h4>Chapter 575 - Chen Fan is Here</h4>

    While Chen Fan could ignore Xiao Zhen and the other Great Chu Empire participants, he wouldn¡¯t be able to ignore the guilt he would feel. They were all innocent people, who would have to die because they were acquainted with Chen Fan.

    If he hadn''t learned of their predicament, or if he had found out toote, he might have felt a brief pang of sadness but would not have been burdened by guilt.

    The world was unforgiving, and weakness was often seen as a grave w.

    However, knowing about their plight and having both the time and means to act, Chen Fan felt he had no choice but to confront the Battle Heaven Alliance. Avoiding the situation would only deepen his regret and create a lingering sense of guilt,plicating his path in martial arts.

    A man had to stand by some principles, and this was one such case. Despite the risks, he had to face the danger head-on.

    ¡°Battle Heaven Alliance...I haven¡¯t had the time to confront you since I have been busy. But now you¡¯ve forced my hand. This time, I¡¯ll make sure to topple all of you!¡± Chen Fan''s eyes shed with intense resolve.

    ......

    The Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s base was situated in a cleared area within the southwest area of the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    This region had once been teeming with demonic beasts, but the Alliance had purged the area, leaving it barren and devoid of the creatures that once roamed there.

    The area was abuzz with spectators who had gathered not to fight, but to witness the dramatic confrontation that was expected to unfold.

    A month had passed since the Battle Heaven Alliance ced a killing order against Chen Fan. Despite extensive searches, they couldn¡¯t even find a strand of his hair. Ultimately, they followed Luo Qian¡¯s suggestion and captured some innocents to force him out.

    With less than a day remaining, many had begun to doubt whether Chen Fan would ever make an appearance. The surrounding crowd voiced their skepticism:

    ¡°Only half a day left, but there¡¯s still no sign of Chen Fan. It¡¯s looking increasingly unlikely that he¡¯ll show up.¡±

    ¡°Xiao Zhen and the others will be in deep trouble if Chen Fan doesn¡¯t show up. Even though their connection to Chen Fan is paper thin, they¡¯re caught in the crossfire because of him.¡±

    ¡°The Battle Heaven Alliance is conspiring openly. It¡¯s an obvious trap. Once Chen Fan shows up, he¡¯ll be met with overwhelming force. Even if Chen Fan has three heads and six arms, he would surely die facing the Battle Heaven Alliance.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Although they suffered heavy losses during the Dao Pce incident, their foundation was not hurt. They¡¯re still one of the five major alliances, far beyond the reach of smaller factions.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s all riding on whether Chen Fan will appear before the deadline. If he doesn¡¯t, the alliance¡¯s n will have backfired, and they might not get another opportunity to catch him.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    These people were all standing around the mountaintops nearby, looking toward the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s base and discussing among themselves.

    Xiao Zhen and the other hostages were hanging in front of the entrance to the Battle Heaven Alliance base. Every one of them looked to be in a sorry state.

    Even though the Battle Heaven Alliance members did not torture them, being hanged like this was the greatest torture. Everyone on this ind was a genius from some nation, but now, they were being humiliated in such a way. One could only imagine the rage they felt in their hearts.

    Standing below, Luo Qian looked up at the disheveled Xiao Zhen and chuckled coldly. ¡°Hehe, Xiao Zhen, you didn¡¯t expect a day like this to befall you, did you?¡±

    ¡°<i>Ptooi</i>!¡± Xiao Zhen¡¯s eyes were filled with contempt. He stared at Luo Qian and said, ¡°If I knew you were such despicable trash, I would have just ughtered you!¡±

    Luo Qianughed coldly and said, ¡°ughter me? You couldn¡¯t do that back then, and you definitely can¡¯t now! You used to call Chen Fan that little bastard your brother, didn¡¯t you? He¡¯s the reason you¡¯re in such trouble now. Two and a half days have passed, but I don¡¯t see himing to save you.

    ¡°<i>Heh heh</i>, you still have half a day¡¯s time. If Chen Fan doesn¡¯te by then, I¡¯ll chop off your head personally and use it as a wine cup, then keep it as a trophy!¡±

    Xiao Zhen stared coldly at Luo Qian and said, ¡°Someone like you won¡¯t have a good end.¡±

    ¡°At least I will live longer than you!¡± Luo Qian retorted, sneering.

    Just then, a sharp, tearing sound cut through the air, followed by a series of explosions that rumbled like thunder.

    An iparably icy voice resounded in space, ¡°You won¡¯t live longer than Xiao Zhen. You will die right now!¡±

    Luo Qian felt as if death itself had marked him. His hair stood on end, his muscles tensed, and his pores opened up in fear. A deadly intentpletely shrouded him.

    Turning around, he saw a ck ancient spear slicing through the air at an impossible speed, heading straight for him. The spear was upon him in the blink of an eye, almost piercing him.

    With no time to think or dodge, Luo Qian instinctively gathered his cultivation.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    A powerful aura instantly blossomed, reaching the four-revolution Golden Core realm.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Luo Qian focused all his true primeval on his right arm and let out a furious roar that shook the sky. He unleashed his strongest punch ever to st the Heaven Piercing Spear to bits.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As he punched out, the terrifying fist force twisted into a single stream and shot out like a cannonball. The space within a hundred-meter radius shook violently.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    But the mighty punch was as ineffective as butter or tofu against the Heaven Piercing Spear. It shatteredyer byyer, failing to impede the spear in the slightest.

    Seeing his most powerful punch being utterly ineffective, Luo Qian let out a desperate, indignant roar of fury, ¡°No!¡±

    In the next moment, his furious roar came to an abrupt stop.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear pierced through Luo Qian and pinned him to the ground diagonally. A loud rumble rang out, and all signs of life vanished from Luo Qian.

    The sudden turn of events left the onlookers, who had gathered to watch the spectacle, stunned.

    Luo Qian had been alive and kicking just a few moments prior. He stood in front of the crowd and viciously humiliated Xiao Zhen, saying he would live longer than Xiao Zhen. Yet, in an instant, hey dead, unable to defend himself.

    This was too shocking.

    This happened too suddenly. The crowd was not prepared at all, and it happened in a sh. The attack, which had struck down a four-revolution Golden Core expert, was too impactful.

    However, these people came back to their senses in an instant, their expressions shifting to excitement.

    ¡°He¡¯s here, Chen Fan is here!¡±

 Chapter 576 - Taking on the Battle Heaven Alliance Alone

    <h4>Chapter 576 - Taking on the Battle Heaven Alliance Alone</h4>

    ¡°He¡¯s here, Chen Fan is here!¡±

    In an instant, the crowd snapped back to their senses and erupted in excitement.

    Who else would dare to kill Luo Qian from a distance right in front of the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s base?

    Only Chen Fan could do such a thing!

    Even if top experts like Li Yao and Qiu Yuexin had the strength to do so, they weren¡¯t rted to Xiao Zhen and the other hostages in any way. Without any previous interaction, what reason would they have to do so?

    So, the attacker could only be Chen Fan.

    The crowd quickly turned their attention to the source of themotion.

    In the distance, they saw a figure with wings on his back, soaring through the air like a roc, apanied by the roar of thunder.

    The nearby crowd erupted into chatter.

    ¡°It really is Chen Fan, he¡¯s here! He really came!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, he actually dared toe. He dared toe despite knowing this is a trap set by the Battle Heaven Alliance!¡±

    ¡°Indeed, the strong are daring. He knew full well the danger but came anyway. That¡¯s impressive!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the use of being admirable? The Battle Heaven Alliance is going to such lengths because they want to kill Chen Fan and eliminate future threats. Coming here is just walking into his own grave. It¡¯s a foolish move.¡±

    ¡°Heh, if Chen Fan hadn¡¯te, we¡¯d miss out on a great show. And he didn¡¯t arrive too early or toote¡ªjust when there¡¯s only half a day left. He must be quite confident in himself.¡±

    ¡°What a joke. The Battle Heaven Alliance is one of the five major alliances, a superpower with countless experts. No matter how confident Chen Fan is, even if he can defeat those above his level, how could he possibly resist a group of fierce warriors?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Earlier, they were specting that Chen Fan had gone into hiding, knowing he couldn¡¯t match the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s army. However, he had arrived with a powerful momentum, killing Luo Qian from a distance with his spear, leaving everyone stunned.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Almost simultaneously, numerous powerful auras rose to the sky from inside the Battle Heaven Alliance base, sweeping the sun, moon, and the skies.

    The entire heaven and earth changed colors. A somber and deste atmosphere instantly shrouded the surrounding fifty kilometers.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    Several alliance experts immediately soared into the sky, their fierce gazes fixed on the distance, their auras surging.

    Chen Fan had nailed Luo Qian to the ground in front of their base. He was simply challenging the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s prestige.

    They hadn¡¯t set up this borate scene to let Chen Fan show off but to ensure his death. Someone who would surely die actually dared to kill their people, and evenmitted the deed right in front of their base.

    This p in the face resounded too loudly.

    Before they could make things difficult for Chen Fan, thetter had already delivered a preemptive strike, intimidating them fiercely first.

    How dare he!

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    In response to their aura, the Heaven Piercing Spears tore through the sky, spinning with deadly force and wrapped in a deathly aura. It shot toward the two five-revolution Golden Core experts, aiming to kill them as well.

    ¡°You¡¯re asking to die!¡±

    The expressions of these two five-revolution Golden Core supreme experts changed drastically. Rage twisted their faces, their anger palpable.

    They quickly unleashed their immense cultivation power, trying to shatter the iing Heaven Piercing Spear. However, the spear was unbreakable, piercing through their defenses and heading straight for them.

    Horror shed across their faces.

    They hadn¡¯t anticipated Chen Fan¡¯s attack to be this powerful. Even they couldn¡¯t resist it. No wonder Luo Qian had been killed and pinned to the ground so swiftly.

    Both of them felt the same despair Luo Qian had experienced in hisst moments.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Just as the two were about to be killed, a huge true primeval hand suddenly burst out from the alliance base, grabbed the spear, and neutralized the attack.

    The two experts wiped the cold sweat from their foreheads, having narrowly escaped death. They quickly retreated, their hearts pounding with fear.

    They would have followed in Luo Qian¡¯s footsteps had Yin Jiu not stepped in.

    Terrifying!

    The realization of Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength sank in. No wonder he could kill Nie Tao and Yun Tao, their vice alliance leaders.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan moved as fast as lightning, appearing in the sky above the base in a sh. With a swing of his arm, he severed the ropes binding Xiao Zhen and the other hostages, freeing them. He looked toward the base with a cold gaze.

    ¡°Scum of the Battle Heaven Alliance, I, Chen Fan, am here. Come out and meet your death!¡±

    His bellow shook the universe and resounded through the heavens. The nearby crowd¡¯s hearts nearly burst from the vibration.

    Chen Fan hade alone, daring them to confront him. His arrogance was unequivocal.

    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, Chen Fan!¡±

    Under Yin Jiu¡¯s lead, the elites of the Battle Heaven Alliance appeared one after another ferociously. Their killing intent was palpable.

    The temperature in the area plummeted all of a sudden, and snowkes drifted down from the skies due to the cold killing intent.

    Yin Jiu was a youth with a withered, skinny figure, an aquiline nose, and eyes as cold and piercing as a snake¡¯s. His gaze felt like a poisonous snake targeting its prey.

    ¡°Weren¡¯t you people looking for me? Let¡¯s see if you can kill me!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent gaze fell on Yin Jiu. A hint of mockery appeared on his face, and he said, ¡°So, you are Yin Jiu, the number one genius of the Blue Mist Empire¡¯s Blue Mist Sect. How disappointing!¡±

    ¡°Disappointing?¡± Yin Jiu raised his eyebrow and replied coldly, ¡°You won¡¯t feel disappointedter!¡±

    ¡°Save the nonsense. Since I came here today, your Battle Heaven Alliance will be crushed. Tell me, how do you all wish to die?¡± Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered with talking nonsense. It was pointless. In the end, he would still have to speak with his strength.

    The spectators felt their hearts trembling at his pompous words.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance members, on the other hand, felt their dignity had been grievously insulted, their faces twisted with fury.

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°How arrogant!¡±

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll tear you to pieces!¡±

    Angry shouts came from the Battle Heaven Alliance members, filled with killing intent.

    Chen Fan simply ignored them, his killing intent growing thicker. His aura swelled, building to a level that would soon shake the heavens and the earth, threatening to tear the world apart.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance used Xiao Zhen and the others¡¯ lives to force him out. Now that he was here, he would not hold back. A bloody massacre was all but certain.

    Grabbing at the empty air, the Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s hand. His aura soared.

    A peerless killing god had descended!

 Chapter 577 â€“ Massacre

    <h4>Chapter 577 ¨C Massacre</h4>

    ¡°Die!¡±

    With that deep, cold shout, Chen Fan charged into the Battle Heaven Alliance like a bolt of lightning.

    Only someone like Chen Fan could dare to challenge an entire alliance so boldly. The scene stunned the onlookers.

    If anyone else had been in Chen Fan¡¯s position, facing the entire Battle Heaven Alliance alone, their legs would have turned into jelly from fear long ago.

    Who else would act like a fierce tiger charging into a flock of sheep? But the Battle Heaven Alliance members were not sheep; they were a pack of ravenous wolves.

    No matter how fierce a tiger might be, it wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against a pack of wolves.

    ¡°Kill him!¡± Yin Jiu shouted, giving themand as soon as Chen Fan moved.

    Spear qi, saber qi, sword qi, and qi from various cultivation techniques flew toward Chen Fan.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance members showed no mercy, unleashing their most lethal attacks to eliminate Chen Fan and prevent any future threats.

    However, Chen Fan was far from an easy target now. He had transformed since a month ago.

    Swinging the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan unleashed a sh that shattered the sky. It instantly broke apart the Battle Heaven Alliance members¡¯ attacks.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Streaks of fresh blood sshed, and several rtively weaker members of the Battle Heaven Alliance died.

    ¡°Die, Dead Tree Seal!¡± Killing intent shed in Yin Jiu¡¯s eyes. He unleashed his eight-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation. His true primeval surged like the Yangtze River inside him, producing a roaring noise.

    His aura alone was as powerful as thebined auras of the other members. It was simply terrifying.

    An enormous palm seal, filled with death qi, descended from the sky. It wanted to suppress him and kill Chen Fan by turning him into meat paste.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan showed no signs of panic at all and grabbed at the empty air with his left hand. A Heaven Piercing Spear condensed in his hand, and he hurled it into the sky violently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The attack roared through the heavens with a deafening explosion like the sky itself was enraged. The scene left asting impression on everyone watching.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear instantly destroyed the Dead Tree Seal. A powerful shockwave erupted, sweeping across thend and sky. Tall trees were toppled, and the ground was gouged out to a depth of three feet.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Chen Fan darted forward, appearing in front of several Battle Heaven Alliance members. His halberd shed with deadly precision, and their heads flew into the air, their faces frozen in disbelief.

    These people were no match for Chen Fan. Despite being called geniuses themselves, the disparity in their strength was ringly obvious. They couldn¡¯t even slow him down.

    A seven-revolution Golden Core realm executive roared in anger as he saw Chen Fan flitting past the Battle Heaven Alliance members, cutting down those with lower cultivation levels.

    ¡°Damn it, a bastard like you deserves a thousand deaths!¡±

    Suddenly, a terrifying streak of halberd light came shing down, silencing his shouts abruptly. A deathly aura had locked him in ce, and a look of horror immediately showed on his face.

    ¡°You dare!¡± Yin Jiu¡¯s expression also changed.

    The Battle Heaven Alliance didn¡¯t have many seven-revolution Golden Core realm experts. Losing even one of them would be a severe blow, akin to tearing their very foundation. Naturally, Yin Jiu would not let things go Chen Fan¡¯s way.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Yin Jiu shouted, summoning an enormous ax nearly a thousand feet long. He quickly swung it down toward Chen Fan.

    Simultaneously, two other seven-revolution Golden Core supreme expertsunched their fiercest attacks on Chen Fan.

    Many experts unleashed absolute killing moves; suddenly, heaven and earth were filled with a mix of lights.

    Thousands of divine light, various qi, along with various qi and cultivation techniques, surged forward, seemingly piercing the sky.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    At that critical moment, Chen Fan suddenly retracted his arm, and the Wings of Rain Dragon shed. A hurricane erupted, and he vanished from sight, only to reappear at another location. There, he ughtered several one and two-revolution Golden Core realm members.

    ¡°No!¡± The seven-revolution Golden Core realm executive roared in fury as he realized he was now caught in the crossfire of Yin Jiu and the others'' deadly attacks.

    However, Yin Jiu and the others couldn¡¯t withdraw their attacks now. They could only watch as theirrade was shredded to pieces by the attacks meant to save him.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Yin Jiu¡¯s rage boiled over, his aura surging violently. Like a madman, he charged at Chen Fan, his giant ax cleaving through the air as if to split heaven and earth.

    However, Chen Fan deftly avoided shing with Yin Jiu. He moved back and forth between the Battle Heaven Alliance members, swiftly cutting down one after another.

    ¡°How terrifying! Chen Fan is turning this into a bloodbath!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, the Battle Heaven Alliance set up this borate trap to capture Chen Fan, but now they¡¯re caught in their own snare. They can¡¯t keep up with Chen Fan¡¯s speed at all. He is like a slippery loach, squirming into the midst of the Battle Heaven Alliance members. Yin Jiu and the others are helpless, watching their members fall one by one.¡±

    Everyone could see that Chen Fan was getting rid of the minions. Unless they were in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, they couldn¡¯t resist a single blow from Chen Fan.

    Yin Jiu and the others, although strong, couldn¡¯t match Chen Fan¡¯s speed and were left trailing in his wake. They were simply infuriated.

    Their frustration grew as they watched their trap backfire, resulting in heavy losses while not a hair on Chen Fan was harmed.

    ¡°Everyone else, back off! All of you, retreat! You two, surround and kill this beast with me!¡± Yin Jiu made up his mind decisively, realizing that trying to overwhelm and kill Chen Fan with numbers was impossible and only yed into his hands.

    By withdrawing, they could fight without restrictions and focus on killing Chen Fan.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    The other members immediately flitted far away, scattering in all directions. They all looked terrified as if they had juste back from the gates of hell.

    The battle hadn¡¯t even been going for that long, yet they had already lost about twenty members. It was simply a massacre.

    ¡°Receive your death!¡± One of the seven-revolution Golden Core realm experts hurled his spear with deadly intent. Now that the others were no longer around, he could attack with his full power, no longer having to be careful of injuring one of their own.

    A terrifying spear qi instantly stabbed out ruthlessly, as if it would pierce through heaven and earth.

    ¡°Die!¡± Another seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert alsounched an attack from behind.

    A terrifying saber light shed out violently, tearing through space. The friction against the air produced fire as the saber light rushed toward Chen Fan, wrapped in raging mes, wanting to tear him to shreds.

    ¡°Bastard, you must die!¡± Yin Jiu shouted, erupting with an unparalleled aura.

    He was an eight-revolution Golden Core realm invincible expert. Hisrge ax descended on Chen Fan fiercely. A loud rumble rang out as if primal chaos was being split apart to form heaven and earth, his momentum vast and mighty.

    Chen Fan slipped into a very dangerous situation at once.

    Three supreme experts were attacking him with impable coordination, determined to kill him in one stroke.

 Chapter 578 - Ye Cangxuan

    <h4>Chapter 578 - Ye Cangxuan</h4>

    ¡°Hoho, the battle has already started!¡±

    Li Yao arrived with Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance members. The first thing he saw was Chen Fan caught in a perilous situation, attacked by Yin Jiu and the others from three sides.

    ¡°What an incredible disy. He has already killed so many Battle Heaven Alliance members!¡± Li Yao remarked, observing the numerous corpses of Battle Heaven Alliance members scattered on the ground.

    Despite their swift arrival, they had missed the initial sh where Chen Fan had already taken down so many of the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s elite members.

    Chen Fan was facing Yin Jiu and the others¡¯ three-pronged attack, but he did not show the slightest hint of panic on his face.

    He swiftly countered with the Purgatory Divine Halberd. The halberd¡¯s light, like the Milky Way spanning the heavens, shattered the spear qi with overwhelming force.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With a loud explosion, the halberd light crushed the spear qi and swept it aside.

    Chen Fan¡¯s divine halberd continued its descent like a lightning bolt, cleaving through a seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert and splitting him in two.

    Another seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert perished on the spot.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan unleashed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. Three heads and six arms appeared, delivering relentless blows in every direction.

    Numerous terrifying streams of fist qi rushed out like flood dragons, carrying iparably ferocious and berserk force that could shatter the stars.

    It sent the other seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert flying. He spewed out arge mouthful of fresh blood and flew back like a bird with its wings clipped, crashed into a mountain, and made it crumble, leaving his fate uncertain.

    Chen Fan simultaneously held the Purgatory Divine Halberd in front of him, defending himself.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Yin Jiu¡¯s terrifying ax came down, and an iparably terrifying force erupted that sent Chen Fan flying, his arm somewhat numb.

    Chen Fan had cut down a seven-revolution Golden Core and heavily injured the other. However, Yin Jiu and the others¡¯bined attacks were wless. He did not have any time to defend against Yin Jiu¡¯s ax and could only hastily use the Purgatory Divine Halberd to defend himself.

    Yin Jiu was an eight-revolution Golden Core realm expert, so his attacks were terrifyingly strong. Chen Fan¡¯s physique was tough, but the attack still sent him flying back, his qi and blood shaken and tumbling violently.

    Although Chen Fan was sent flying, the crowd still found it incredible.

    After all, Chen Fan had just withstood thebined attack of two seven-revolution and one eight-revolution Golden Core realm experts. An eight-revolution Golden Core realm expert could do the same but not without earning themselves some severe injuries. Also, they couldn¡¯t possibly take down two seven-revolution Golden Core realm experts while doing so.

    That underscored Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength.

    As Chen Fan was flying backward, unable to steady himself just yet, he saw a sinister smile on Yin Jiu¡¯s face.

    An iparably intense deadly crisis suddenly enveloped Chen Fan, making his expression change drastically in an instant.

    <i>C!</i>

    A faint wind-breaking noise rang out from behind.

    He felt as if a grim reaper was standing behind him, swiping his scythe toward his neck.

    ¡°Not good!¡± Chen Fan did not have time to think and immediately unleashed a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    This streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi flew out from his back and struck the trident about to stab him from behind.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying rumbling noise rang out.

    A deafening rumble erupted, and a storm of unimaginable force swept out as if an atomic bomb had exploded. It pounded on Chen Fan, causing his protective true primeval aura to shatter repeatedly.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Borrowing the momentum, Chen Fan quickly flew away in the opposite direction.

    As he did, he noticed a figure wielding a trident emerging from the storm.

    This sudden turn of events shocked everyone. The crowd broke out into amotion at once.

    ¡°Who is he?¡±

    ¡°My god, what incredible strength... He¡¯s also an eight-revolution Golden Core realm invincible expert!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s him! He is... Ye Cangxuan!¡±

    ¡°What? He¡¯s the ck Dragon Empire¡¯s number one genius, Ye Cangxuan?!¡±

    ¡°No way. Why is he with the Battle Heaven Alliance, going as far as tounch a sneak attack on Chen Fan?¡±

    ¡°Ye Cangxuan has been missing since the start of the hundred-day trial. No one had seen him, and we all forgot about him. I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s appeared now!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s sudden and unexpected appearance was shocking, especially since there had been no news of him for so long. His attack on Chen Fan would have almost been fatal if not for Chen Fan''s immediate and powerful counterstrike

    Now, everyone was puzzled. Why had Ye Cangxuan targeted Chen Fan? Was it to im the Martial Dao Will fragment or the ancient scripture page in his possession?

    ¡°Ye Cangxuan...¡± Li Yao narrowed his eyes slightly, looking at Ye Cangxuan.

    The ck Dragon Empire was ranked within the top three among the six great nations, and Ye Cangxuan was the ck Dragon Empire¡¯s number one genius. How could Li Yao not have heard of him?

    However, like everyone else, he hadn¡¯t heard any news regarding Ye Cangxuan since the start of the trial, thus he forgot about Ye Cangxuan.

    If it weren¡¯t for his sudden appearance, Li Yao probably would not have thought about him even after the trial ended.

    ¡°This guy hid himself well! I¡¯d heard that the Battle Heaven Alliance had two alliance leaders, known as the two kings, but since the trial began, I only saw Yin Jiu.¡± Li Yao¡¯s eyes flickered.

    Although he couldn¡¯t recall where he had heard this information, the Battle Heaven Alliance had always been associated with Yin Jiu alone, so he had dismissed the im

    From the looks of things now, the Battle Heaven Alliance truly had two alliance leaders, though Ye Cangxuan had hidden himself too deeply as the other leader.

    ¡°Ye Cangxuan probably practiced an extremely formidable aura concealment technique. He even fooled me. Even I couldn¡¯t sense him until now. His timing was also impable. If it wasn¡¯t for that sword qi... Wait, is that the secret technique recorded on his ancient scripture page?¡± Li Yao¡¯s gaze shifted onto Chen Fan again.

    Each of the five participants had obtained a page of the ancient scripture, each containing a heaven-tier martial art. Chen Fan had used a sword qi in that critical moment, which Li Yao suspected was connected to the technique recorded on his page.

    Li Yao quickly pieced together the situation.

 Chapter 579 - Taking on the Two Kings

    <h4>Chapter 579 - Taking on the Two Kings</h4>

    Having failed in his ambush, Ye Cangxuan¡¯s expression became somewhat ugly. He said with a chilling tone, ¡°You reacted pretty quickly. I didn¡¯t expect you to have such defenses!¡±

    The coordination between him and Yin Jiu with thatst attack was simply perfect.

    If that terrifying streak of sword qi from Chen Fan hadn¡¯t blocked his attack, he would have assassinated Chen Fan.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking at Ye Cangxuan with an icy gaze.

    Ye Cangxuan had appeared behind Chen Fan silently when he had been sent flying by Yin Jiu¡¯s ax earlier. Had he not cultivated the Green Lotus Sword Scripture to the seventhyer, the sneak attack would have seeded.

    ¡°Ye Cangxuan!¡± Ye Cangxuan answered coldly.

    Chen Fan had heard that name before. When he had passed by the ck Dragon Empire previously, he heard of their number one genius, a figure on par with Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and the other top geniuses.

    However, there had been no news of Ye Cangxuan until now, so Chen Fan had not realized he was on the ind.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have any grievances with you, right?¡± Chen Fan said, looking coldly at Ye Cangxuan.

    Ye Cangxuan smiled coldly and said, ¡°No grievances? What a joke! You snatched my alliance¡¯s Martial Dao Will fragment, killed two of our vice alliance leaders, and even took the ancient scripture page afterward. And did you already forget the numerous alliance members you killed just now? No grievances, you say?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? You¡¯re with the Battle Heaven Alliance?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s irises shrank violently.

    Ye Cangxuan had referred to the Battle Heaven Alliance as ¡°my alliance.¡± So, what had he never heard about the alliance having such a member?

    The nearby crowd was also shaken by Ye Cangxuan¡¯s words.

    Ye Cangxuan was indeed a member of the Battle Heaven Alliance. No one had expected that.

    Aside from a genius like Yin Jiu, the Battle Heaven Alliance still had Ye Cangxuan in hiding.

    It was now clear why Ye Cangxuan hadunched a sneak attack on Chen Fan earlier.

    Many people felt a shiver in their hearts. Ye Cangxuan had hidden himself too well. The waters of the Battle Heaven Alliance were too deep.

    ¡°Hoho, little bastard, you had no idea, did you? Brother Ye and I co-founded the Battle Heaven Alliance. We¡¯re the alliance leaders of the Battle Heaven Alliance, but to conceal our full strength, I¡¯ve been the only one upfront from the start.¡±

    Yin Jiu''s revtion was meant to shock everyone, and it did. Chen Fan, however, remained unfazed.

    ¡°I see.¡± Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°No wonder you two teamed up. Truly, it¡¯s a nest of rats and snakes colluding together. You employ such disgraceful tactics.¡±

    Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu¡¯s faces turned frosty at Chen Fan¡¯s words.

    They had taken pride in deceiving everyone, but Chen Fan''s remark was like a cold bucket of water, humiliating them publicly.

    ¡°You abominable bastard, you have a pretty sharp tongue, don¡¯t you? But today will be the day you die. I¡¯ll tear that damned mouth off your face and see what more you can say!¡± Ye Cangxuan said sinisterly.

    ¡°You should feel honored to have both me and Brother Ye join forces to kill you!¡± Yin Jiu also chimed in coldly.

    They positioned themselves in front and behind Chen Fan, trapping him in a pincer movement. Their eight-revolution Golden Core cultivation erupted, forming two terrifying storms that rolled across the sky, their momentum shocking.

    ¡°You went to such great lengths to try and kill me, but all you¡¯re doing is spinning a cocoon around yourselves!¡± Chen Fan remained resolute like a steadfast reef enduring the relentless waves and storms.

    ¡°As long as we can kill you, there¡¯s nothing that can¡¯t be done!¡± Ye Cangxuan said coldly.

    Chen Fan scoffed coldly, ¡°Kill me? You two are nothing but trash. Fine, since you¡¯ve both shown yourselves, I¡¯ll ughter you and wipe out the Battle Heaven Alliance for good!¡±

    ¡°What arrogance!¡± Ye Cangxuan was enraged by Chen Fan¡¯s words. Facing him and Yin Jiu, both eight-revolution Golden Core realm peerless experts, Chen Fan should be trembling in fear under their might and begging for mercy.

    Ye Cangxuan stepped forward, his aura shifting to one of absolute invincibility, as if he were a god descending from the heavens.

    Yin Jiu also advanced, fully unleashing his terrifying eight-revolution Golden Core power. Driven by ambition and ruthlessness, he was prepared to use any means necessary to achieve his goal.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Ye Cangxuan¡¯s killing intent erupted with chilling intensity. His trident pierced through space, aiming mercilessly at Chen Fan¡¯s head.

    ¡°Die!¡± Yin Jiu simultaneously swung his massive ax with devastating force. The ax light shed through the air with a blinding sh, parting the air as if it were seawater.

    ¡°Two against one, Chen Fan is in danger!¡±

    ¡°Two eight-revolution Golden Core realm invincible experts have joined hands to deal with Chen Fan. My god, I don¡¯t even dare to imagine the oue of the fight.¡±

    ¡°It truly is an inescapable of heaven and earth! Who could have thought that Ye Cangxuan was actually the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s alliance leader hiding in the dark? If it were only Yin Jiu, things could have worked out for Chen Fan, but since the two have joined forces, he¡¯s sure to die.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd was shaken in their hearts when they saw Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu using big killing moves against Chen Fan.

    Two eight-revolution Golden Core realm peerless experts joined hands to kill Chen Fan. This huge battle was destined to shake the entire Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident struck out, its three tips sweeping across the sky like mountains. The violent stab carried an immense and terrifying force as if it could shatter the verynd, and it reached Chen Fan in an instant.

    Chen Fan showed no traces of emotion. The strength inside him instantly surged and blossomed. An otherworldly space-time appeared behind him, with ancient giant elephants running over as he shed out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The space was torn apart. The terrifying strength instantly descended and exploded. It collided with Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident, producing an earth-shattering explosion. The resulting terrifying storm could even destroy the universe.

    In the meantime, Yin Jiu¡¯s ax attack had already appeared behind Chen Fan, about to cleave him in half.

    Suddenly, six arms appeared on Chen Fan. A true primeval arm wielded the iron spear and executed the Heaven Piercing Thrust. Wrapped in the power of ten thousand elephants, the thrust could destroy the heavens.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The iron spear collided with therge ax, producing a sharp, ear-piercing noise. The terrifying force from the impact made the true primeval arm explode.

    However, the five other arms executed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist. An undefeatable will filled the heavens. Terrifying fist force rushed out, wrapped in ten thousand ancient giant elephants, aiming to smash Yin Jiu into smithereens.

    ¡°The battle has begun!¡± someone in the crowd eximed in excitement.

 Chapter 580 - A Real Man Should Be Like This

    <h4>Chapter 580 - A Real Man Should Be Like This</h4>

    ¡°The huge battle has begun!¡±

    The crowd erupted excitedly, their eyes gleaming as they watched Chen Fan sh with Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu.

    Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu struck mercilessly and savagely. Remarkably, Chen Fan showed no signs of being disadvantaged despite fighting two opponents at once. This astonishing disy left many spectators wide-eyed in disbelief.

    While some had expected Chen Fan to maintain his advantage, they still found it astonishing to see him handle the dual assault without any trouble. The match could have ended quickly if he¡¯d faltered, making it all the more thrilling to witness his equal footing with two top-tier experts.

    Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu were both eight-revolution Golden Core realm masters¡ªno pushovers by any means.

    Furthermore, they were both geniuses from their respective empires, exceptional even among exceptional talents.

    When the two joined forces, theirbined might was not just the sum of their individual strengths; it was exponentially greater.

    If anyone else were in Chen Fan¡¯s ce and had to face their joint attacks, they would have been defeated disastrously in the first wave of attacks.

    Yet, Chen Fan fought them without falling at a disadvantage. Suchbat strength definitely astounded everyone.

    Yin Jiu made a true primeval arm wielding the iron spear explode, but he was also pushed back by the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, wrapped in terrifying strength. His expression became incredibly ugly.

    Yin Jiu and Ye Cangxuan had joined hands, positioning themselves at the front and the back. Anyone in Chen Fan¡¯s position would have died miserably from that joint attack earlier. However, Chen Fan was unmoved like a mountain, easily breaking their attacks.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s expression was icy. He immediately gathered even more power and charged forward again. Like three pirs supporting the sky, his trident stabbed toward Chen Fan violently.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    With each stab, the air erupted in explosive bursts. The surrounding space quaked violently, sending monstrous waves crashing through the arena.

    Ye Cangxuan moved with the grace of a sea god, riding the waves closer to Chen Fan, his presencemanding and intense.

    Chen Fan did not avoid him; instead, he met Ye Cangxuan head-on indifferently. He unleashed a devastating light beam from his Purgatory Divine Halberd that seemed capable of tearing through the heavens.

    <i>Zi, zi.</i>

    <i>Zi, zi, zi.</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two immense forces shed in the air, their energy colliding with a deafening roar. A massive qi wave spread outward, ttening the mountains and trees in its path.

    Meanwhile, Yin Jiu, with a sinister re, charged in. Hisrge ax shimmered with a chilling light, drawing the gaze of onlookers as it swung toward Chen Fan¡¯s head to decapitate him.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan swept the Purgatory Divine Halberd horizontally, blocking the terrifying attack.

    Just as he forced Yin Jiu back, Ye Cangxuan came up again. The chilling light from his trident lit up the sky, instantly piercing through the stars, sweeping across the sky, carrying traces of unease.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    After a terrifying collision, both parties were pushed back several steps.

    Chen Fan was trembling. His Myriad Elephants Divine Art was incredibly domineering, but that couldn¡¯t entirely make up for the four-realm difference between them. Moreover, his opponents were no ordinary eight-revolution Golden Core experts; they were terrifying, peerless existences.

    But Chen Fan wasn¡¯t the only one shocked. His opponents were even more astonished, as evidenced by the intense killing intent in their eyes.

    Both of them were the number one geniuses of the younger generation of their respective empires, representative figures who dominated an era. Few could match their level of talent.

    Yet, despite theirbined efforts against a four-revolution Golden Core opponent, they were struggling to bring Chen Fan down swiftly. This challenged and wounded their pride.

    They knew that there were experts stronger than them under the heavens, but Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be one of them. He was just some guy from a weak nation. Their pride could not take it.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    With their pride on the line, an overwhelming wave of killing intent surged from both of them as they attacked again.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Therge ax shed through the dome of the universe. A terrifying aura locked firmly onto Chen Fan. Yin Jiu¡¯s imposing bearing made him look like a demon god.

    <i>C!</i>

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident instantly shattered space. Boundless divine light whistled out, about to tear Chen Fan to shreds.

    The two terrifying attacks rushed toward Chen Fan. Everyone thought that Chen Fan was done for. It would be impressive if he could block one such attack, let alone two.

    The sky crumbled and the earth cracked. Qi waves stirred, ttening countless trees and scraping three feet of soil on the ground. The scene was so horrible that one could not bear to look.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan unleashed a devastating beam of light with his Purgatory Divine Halberd. It was as if the power of death itself had descended, intent on wiping out everything and leaving no trace of life.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The mournful winds howled between heaven and earth, echoing in the crowd¡¯s ears like an apocalyptic trumpet, heralding the end.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop!</i>

    The air was repeatedly shattered with loud bursts, resembling the sound of relentless firecrackers.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying qi wave instantly swept out across thends, ravaging the universe.

    Those closest to the impact screamed in agony, coughing up blood as they scrambled to get to safety.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Numerous towering ancient trees, as well as mountain peaks, were destroyed.

    It was a terrifying collision, but Chen Fan did not move an inch. The shockwave failed to affect him at all.

    He was too terrifyingly strong, especially since his Myriad Elephants Divine Art had reached the peak of the fourteenthyer. Even if an ancient divine mountain rammed into him now, he would be fine.

    His incredibly tough physique gave him unmatchedbat strength. With the aid of the Nine Illusory Golden Core Secret Art, he could amplify his power ninefold, allowing him to stand toe-to-toe with nine-revolution Golden Core experts. And that was why he was confident against them.

    ¡°So strong, Chen Fan is too powerful. Chen Fan is holding his ground effortlessly against two invincible experts. They can¡¯t seem to touch him at all. As expected of a man who took a Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is truly a freak. His physique is too strong. He only has four-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation but actually possesses such terrifyingbat strength. A demon, a great demon! Could he be the reincarnation of a heavenly god?¡±

    ¡°What does ¡®there is always a sky above the sky, and a man above man¡¯ mean? Chen Fan is the best example! With this battle alone, it would be enough to make Chen Fan¡¯s name spread throughout the Hong Domain, putting him on par with Li Yao and other top geniuses!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was in awe of Chen Fan¡¯s formidable strength, their emotions running high. This was what a true warrior looked like!

 Chapter 581 - Battle Intensifies

    <h4>Chapter 581 - Battle Intensifies</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan sure is amazing. Despite being besieged by Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu, he is unfazed!¡± Li Yao observed the fierce battle between the two parties from a distance, his gaze slightly narrowed.

    During the battle at the Dao Pce, Chen Fan disyed godly might, defeating numerous elite members of the Battle Heaven Alliance and their two vice alliance leaders.

    Li Yao had already taken notice of him then.

    After a month, Chen Fan¡¯s strength had skyrocketed again. He had shocked everyone by fighting toe-to-toe with two exceptional geniuses alone.

    Li Yao regarded Chen Fan as a peer, seeing him as a rival of equal stature.

    The Great Chu Empire, one of the thirty-six nations in the Hong Domain, was considered to be in the lower-middle tier, around twenty-fifth ce.

    For such a ¡°weak nation¡± to produce a genius like Chen Fan, who rivaled him, the prince of the Great Li Imperial Court, was beyond belief.

    Li Yao''s father, Emperor Li, was the top figure in the Hong Domain and a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse. Li Yao had ess to the best cultivation resources from a young age. Bing the number one genius of the younger generation in the Hong Domain was only proper and to be expected.

    Yet, the rise of Chen Fan was putting significant pressure on him.

    Compared to him, the cultivation resources Chen Fan had ess to were nothing. Chen Fan¡¯s rapid progress suggested that, as the hundred-day trial neared its end, he might now be on par with Li Yao.

    Such rapid improvement made even him, the prince of the Great Li Imperial Court, feel shocked and disbelief.

    ¡°Come to your death!¡± After attacking for a long time without sess, Ye Cangxuan exploded with anger.

    For Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu to team up against Chen Fan in front of so many witnesses was already a blow to their pride. If they couldn¡¯t bring him down even after that, then they would be aplete joke.

    A terrifying aura erupted from him.

    A crushing force surged toward Chen Fan like a monstrous wave, aiming to obliterate his fighting spirit.

    Ye Cangxuan thrust his trident with the ferocity of a sea god''s ultimate attack, an attack no one could escape.

    Layers of sea waves rolled up in the space, relentlessly pressing toward Chen Fan. Meanwhile, Yin Jiu synchronized his attack, bringing down his massive ax to ensure Chen Fan couldn¡¯t defend against both fronts.

    The assault was nearly impossible to block, like a flood dragon rising and falling in the waves, an exceptionally frightening sight.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed with intense killing intent, fueling his resolve to take down both opponents.

    If Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident was like the sea waves, Chen Fan¡¯s Purgatory Divine Halberd would be the force breaking those waves. As Ye Cangxuan¡¯s endless strength swept over, Chen Fan only shed down with his halberd.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Myriad Elephants Divine Art revealed its terrifyingbat strength. His strength boiled and exploded as if an ancient giant god had awakened. Every cell in his body radiated immense strength.

    He was like an ancient giant god, unruffled and as solid as the strongest rock. He was like the sturdiest of rocks in the sea. No matter how turbulent the waves were, they couldn¡¯t shake him in the slightest.

    ¡°He really is fighting two supreme experts alone!¡±

    ¡°They¡¯ve already exchanged dozens, maybe even over a hundred moves, but Chen Fan still hasn¡¯t lost any ground. He¡¯s a little too terrifying, isn¡¯t he!¡±

    ¡°If this fight continues like this, Chen Fan might really be famous because of it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s still too early to make any conclusions!¡± Watching from the side, Li Yao said indifferently, ¡°This battle has only just begun. It hasn¡¯t reached the point of life or death yet. Whates next is the real battle.¡±

    ¡°It truly is unexpected that a small nation like the Great Chu Empire has produced such a terrifying heavenly genius. Hoho, it seems that after the battle three thousand years ago had caused the Hong Domain to be weak, it is now showing signs of revival.¡± A voice rang out at this time. It turned out to be Xuanyuan Po.

    Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, and the others have alsoe.

    They had heard about the battle and were eager to witness it. Though they arrived a bitte, they hade just in time for the climax.

    ¡°Signs of the Hong Domain¡¯s revival, huh...¡± Qiu Yuexin¡¯s eyes, full of beauty and intensity, were fixed on the fiercebat. ¡°The hundred-year period is almost up. The Sacred Road is about to open. I wonder how many geniuses from our Hong Domain will enter the True Martial Academy this time?¡±

    Her words made the eyes of Li Yao, Xuanyuan Po, Gongsun Zhong, and the others narrow sharply, their gazes gleaming with intense anticipation.

    ¡°I¡¯d almost forgotten about that. True Martial Academy... The holynd of the eastern continent martial artists, a gathering of talents. Being epted there means a bright future in martial arts,¡± Xuanyuan Po remarked.

    Gongsun Zhong shifted his gaze onto Li Yao and said, ¡°Li Yao, I recall Emperor Li passed the Sacred Road¡¯s test back then and entered the True Martial Academy. He then returned to the Hong Domain and was confirmed to have reached the Heavenly Star realm, right?¡±

    Li Yao nodded, ¡°That¡¯s right! I once heard my Imperial Father say that the True Martial Academy is the true holynd. Only the prides of heaven are allowed to enter. People like us are a dime a dozen there and don¡¯t count for much.¡±

    Qiu Yuexin and the others fell silent.

    They could be called top geniuses in the Hong Domain, but looking across the entire eastern continent, they were nothing.

    The eastern continent was divided into 108 domains, and although the Hong Domain was once powerful, it had weakened significantly due to the blood cmity. Even after three thousand years, it had not fully recovered.

    They could reign supreme in the Hong Domain, but when looking across the entire eastern continent, they would be like cats.

    They understood this well.

    Just as Li Yao and the others were talking, the battle between Chen Fan, Ye Cangxuan, and Yin Jiu intensified.

    Chen Fan had pushed back Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu in front of so many people. They were greatly humiliated and furious.

    If this goes on, their prestige would be thoroughly discredited.

    ¡°You abominable bastard, you do have some strength in you, but it¡¯s time for this battle to end! Your fate was sealed the moment you walked in here. No matter how hard you struggle, your death is certain. No one will be able to save you!¡± Yin Jiu said coldly, overflowing with killing intent.

    Chen Fan curled his lips and ridiculed, ¡°If words could kill, then who needs strength?¡±

    As soon as his words ended, Chen Fan swung his Purgatory Divine Halberd with incredible speed.

    <i>ng!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A devastating force erupted like a volcanic st, crashing into Yin Jiu¡¯srge ax and jolting him violently. He felt a sharp pain in his hands as the webbing between his fingers tore open.

    Just as he wanted to counterattack, Chen Fan chopped down repeatedly at this time.

    Every attack was wrapped in unparalleled might, powerful and heavy. A strength that could shatter the stars descended.

 Chapter 582 - Starting to Fight Tooth and Nail

    <h4>Chapter 582 - Starting to Fight Tooth and Nail</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan unleashed his power,unching a wave of ferocious attacks at Yin Jiu.

    Whenpared to Ye Cangxuan, Yin Jiu¡¯s strength was a touch weaker. Chen Fan nned to get rid of him first.

    Of course, Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu both fought using their full strength, using their ultimate moves.

    A sea god''s silhouette appeared behind Ye Cangxuan, wielding a trident that shed violently with the heavens, shattering them and causing countless immortals to fall like rain.

    The trident sted over, its immense power pouring down like an ocean, confining the space. Even the air currents were frozen, and the space was about to copse.

    Meanwhile, Yin Jiu¡¯s massive ax cut through the air,manding an army as mighty as an emperor sweeping across the world. No one could ignore his terrifying power.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Qi waves swept out, impacting the space and causing it to shake violently, producing loud explosions. The space seemingly couldn¡¯t withstand the three of them fighting and was on the verge of shattering, unleashing a fierce storm of destion.

    Mushroom clouds billowed into the sky, like detonations of atomic bombs, reaching heights of ten thousand feet and glowing with a terrifying intensity.

    Chen Fan¡¯s long hair danced wildly in the fierce wind. Wrapped in a terrifying force, the Purgatory Divine Halberd streaked across the sky and collided violently with his opponent¡¯s attacks.

    Chen Fan seemed like a battle god from the heavens, fighting with unmatched valor and sweeping across the battlefield undefeated.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The shockwave from the sh between the two sides devastated everything in its path. Mountain peaks and even stars were not spared from the destruction.

    The battle had reached a fever pitch, with neither side willing to back down, fighting to the death.

    The crowd was dazzled, witnessing a level ofbat they had never expected.

    Compared to experts of the same level, these three were immeasurably stronger.

    This was a rare spectacle, and missing it meant losing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

    Rings of qi waves swept out like ancient mountains crashing through the sky, creating an apocalyptic scene as forces tore through the atmosphere in all directions.

    The battle had finally reached the critical stage.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s halberd shed with Yin Jiu¡¯s massive ax, sending a shockwave so powerful it could tten a mountain.

    Immediately afterward, three streaks of divine light which were like huge dragons from the deep sea pierced through the sky, sweeping across thends and suppressing heaven and earth. They neutralized Chen Fan¡¯s Undefeated King¡¯s Fist and stabbed him.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Fresh blood with a faint hue of gold spattered. Ye Cangxuan¡¯s attack had nearly torn Chen Fan into pieces.

    Chen Fan hurriedly retreated, barely avoiding Ye Cangxuan¡¯s horrifying sneak attack after pulling back ten kilometers.

    ¡°He¡¯s injured! Ye Cangxuan finally inflicted an injury on Chen Fan! Will they fight with their lives on the line now?¡± shouted an onlooker excitedly.

    As the fight reached a critical point, a new development urred: the iparably powerful Chen Fan finally suffered an injury under Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu¡¯s bombardment.

    Ye Cangxuan roared triumphantly, advancing with the force of a mountain range. His towering figure and boundless momentum rippled through space as he lunged at Chen Fan.

    He was pressing his advantage. After catching hold of Chen Fan¡¯s opening, he aimed to finish Chen Fan off.

    ¡°Go to hell! No one can save you today!¡± Ye Cangxuanughed coldly, moving imposingly.

    It was as if his trident had turned into three savage, vicious dragons, stirring up a terrifying storm as he thrust it at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level was notably lowerpared to his opponents. The disparity in their strengths was immense.

    If it weren''t for Chen Fan''s extraordinary physique andbat prowess, he would have been defeated long ago.

    The trident instantly came stabbing like three poisonous dragons.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident pierced Chen Fan¡¯s waist with unparalleled precision, nearly splitting him in half. Fresh blood spewed out like a fountain.

    As the three fought, they changed locations to an ancient forest at the side.

    The shockwaves swept through the endless forest. Large swathes of trees were reduced to wood chips and fragments. Even the demonic beasts within were caught up and met an untimely death.

    Chen Fan managed to grab hold of Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident. Despite Ye Cangxuan''s expectations, Chen Fan¡¯s formidable physique withstood the attack.

    He grabbed tightly onto the trident, so Ye Cangxuan couldn¡¯t move. In terms of pure brute strength, not even two Ye Cangxuan could match Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan suddenly opened his mouth and spat out a green lotus.

    This green lotus erupted with an iparably sharp aura and transformed into a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi that could destroy everything. It flew toward Ye Cangxuan¡¯s head.

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    Chen Fan was holding tightly onto his trident, and the distance between them was too close.

    Ye Cangxuan was caught off guard by the sudden move.

    This attack came too quickly and abruptly; it was bound to cut him in two. He did not even have the time to dodge.

    Ye Cangxuan couldn¡¯t waste any time thinking and quickly tilted his head to the side subconsciously, shifting himself sideways.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    A sound resembling a bolt of cloth being ripped apart rang out.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream resounded across the universe.

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s right hand, which held the trident, was directly severed by the Green Lotus Sword Qi. Fresh blood spewed wildly from the wound, looking incredibly miserable.

    If he had not shifted to the side, he would have been split cleanly in half.

    The Green Lotus Sword Qi was incredibly sharp, its attacking power incredibly high. Ye Cangxuan¡¯s protective true primeval had been torn open in an instant, no different from a block of tofu.

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯splexion turned ghastly white as he pulled back frantically.

    ¡°Have it back!¡±

    A ferocious light burst out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. The muscles in his left hand puffed up, like steel tendons and iron bones as he hurled the trident back to Ye Cangxuan.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    The trident tore through the air with intense rumbling noises, as if heavenly thunder was rolling. Wrapped in horrifying strength, it would pierce through Ye Cangxuan, killing him.

    ¡°You bastard, die!¡± Yin Jiu appeared behind Chen Fan, hisrge ax raised high. He poured vast amounts of true primeval into it, increasing therge ax¡¯s power to the limit and shed down violently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud rumble resounded in space as if heaven had shattered, or the universe was getting destroyed.

    The attack came shing down with the power to annihte the world.

    Yin Jiu wanted to seize this rare opportunity to thoroughly cleave Chen Fan and end this battle.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan felt the frightening sense of dangering from behind and quickly spun around.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo!</i>

    He swiped the Purgatory Divine Halberd, making the air explode by the inch. It instantly collided with the ax.

 Chapter 583 - Two Kings Terrified

    <h4>Chapter 583 - Two Kings Terrified</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd collided with Yin Jiu¡¯srge ax, sending sparks flying and unleashing deafening explosions as a terrifying storm erupted.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan and Yin Jiu were both sent flying backward, spewing blood as they smashed through mountain peaks, reducing them to rubble.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    His aura shocked heaven and earth as Chen Fan rushed out of the debris.

    Although he was covered in blood with a wound at his waist, his aura did not weaken¡ªinstead, it grew even more powerful and terrifying.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan kicked off the ground as he rushed toward Yin Jiu.

    Yin Jiu had also just emerged from the debris and was feeling groggy. However, he immediately sensed a deadly aura shrouding over him. He saw the ancient-looking Heaven Piercing Spear tearing through the air as it descended from the sky, about to nail him dead to the ground.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Yin Jiu roared, his ax glowing with a power capable of shattering the universe. His aura surged upward, giving him the imposing presence of a god.

    He swung hisrge ax, sending out multiple blinding ax lights.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear was instantly crushed. The resulting shockwave from the terrifying collision turned countless trees into ash.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan descended like a heavenly god. As he swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, several deste lights flew out. They all wanted to part Yin Jiu from his life; his irises shrank violently.

    However, Yin Jiu did not show any signs of weakness, being iparably powerful himself. Suppressing his tumbling qi and blood, he kept swinging his ax and neutralized the attack.

    Yin Jiu¡¯s hands had turned numb. He cursed in his heart, finding Chen Fan¡¯s physique too terrifying. Only the heavens knew the peerless cultivation technique he used to get that.

    Every swing of his halberd brought forth the power to destroy mountains and rivers, weighing billions of pounds. It was like he could shatter stars with a simple but violent chopping motion.

    Yin Jiu¡¯s hands grew numb from the relentless and intense collisions, his bones feeling as though they might snap, and he was overwhelmed by a sense of suffocation.

    Despite Chen Fan¡¯s lower cultivation level, his monstrous strength matched thebat prowess of his opponents, frustrating Yin Jiu to no end.

    ¡°sh, sh, sh!¡± Chen Fan shed out continuously. Each swing was like a weapon of death, packed with the power to obliterate. His strikes were merciless, aiming to send his opponent to theherworld.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Another berserk halberd light sh came down, ripping Yin Jiu¡¯s guard open. He was about to lose his grip on hisrge ax.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    A fierce beam of halberd light struck Yin Jiu, creating a deep gash on his chest that exposed his bones and sent him flying, blood spilling everywhere.

    A vicious light flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He immediately seized this opportunity to try to deal a lethal blow to Yin Jiu.

    However, a dangerous aura came from behind him.

    It was Ye Cangxuan.

    Severely injured with his right arm severed by Chen Fan earlier, Ye Cangxuan¡¯sbat strength had plummeted. Still, he came charging over, wielding his trident with his other hand, wanting to save Yin Jiu.

    If Chen Fan seeded in killing Yin Jiu, Ye Cangxuan knew he wouldn¡¯t be far behind in his death. Currently, he and Yin Jiu were deeply interdependent, their fates intertwined

    Chen Fan had no choice but to abandon his pursuit of a fatal blow against Yin Jiu. Instead, he quickly conjured a Heaven Piercing Spear with his left hand and hurled it.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear pierced Yin Jiu¡¯s abdomen, nailing him to the ground.

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure flickered as he evaded Ye Cangxuan¡¯s lethal strike, appearing above him. He then drove the Purgatory Divine Halberd downward.

    Ye Cangxuan hurriedly dodged Chen Fan¡¯s attack, cold sweat dripping from his forehead.

    The onlookers watched the epic battle with wide eyes, not daring to blink for fear of missing any of the earth-shattering shes.

    Everyone could tell that Chen Fan was on a rampage.

    He used himself as bait to sever Ye Cangxuan¡¯s arm, sustaining injuries in the process but gaining a significant advantage.

    Without severely wounding Ye Cangxuan, Chen Fan would have struggled to ovee the two attackers. However, Chen Fan¡¯s ruthlessness toward both his enemies and himself allowed him to cripple Ye Cangxuan¡¯s arm, turning the tide of the battle.

    With Ye Cangxuan heavily injured, his strength was greatly reduced.

    Meanwhile, Yin Jiu waspletely overwhelmed by Chen Fan, suffering a terrifyingly deep gash on his chest and unable to gain any advantage.

    Had Ye Cangxuan notunched a sneak attack because their fates were tied together, Chen Fan would have killed Yin Jiu. Now, he only felt humiliated by being pinned to the ground.

    The crowd was stunned, their hearts pounding with anxiety.

    Initially, despite not being at a disadvantage, few believed Chen Fan could ovee thebined assault of Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu. After all, they both were renowned geniuses across the entire Hong Domain.

    Chen Fan, in contrast, had only recently risen to prominence.

    He made a name for himself after retrieving the ninth Martial Dao Will fragment with his bare hands. He gained further notoriety by killing the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s elites during the battle at the Dao Pce. Aside from that, he didn¡¯t have many great feats to his name.

    Facing the two geniuses of the heavens, even if Chen Fan could resist for some time, could he do so forever?

    The early developments in the battle seemed to validate the crowd¡¯s doubt.

    As Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu brought forth their true strength, Chen Fan was suppressed and started receiving injuries, heavy injuries.

    Just as it seemed Chen Fan was finished, he suddenly turned the tables and severed Ye Cangxuan¡¯s arm.

    The previous scenes shed through the crowd¡¯s minds like a blur. Everyone was very shaken, their hearts trembling uncontrobly.

    Everyone fully acknowledged Chen Fan¡¯s talent and strength. No one questioned his prowess any longer.

    Could the others do what Chen Fan was doing right now?

    Absolutely impossible!

    At the very least, if they were the ones in his ce, Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu would not need to join forces. Either one of them could have easily killed them.

    Ye Cangxuan stared at Chen Fan with an iparably resentful gaze while trembling.

    He hadn¡¯t anticipated that teaming up with Yin Jiu to take down Chen Fan would lead to such a disastrous oue.

    One of his arms had been severed by Chen Fan, and Yin Jiu was now pinned to the ground.

    Humiliation!

    This was the biggest humiliation he had ever suffered in his life!

    It almost drove him crazy!

    A supreme, peerless expert in the eight-revolution Golden Core realm like him was pushed back and severely injured by a martial artist whose cultivation level was four small realms below him.

    If he and Yin Jiu hadn¡¯t joined forces right from the beginning to besiege Chen Fan and had fought him one-on-one instead, Chen Fan would have killed him long ago.

 Chapter 584 - Cutting Down Ye Cangxuan

    <h4>Chapter 584 - Cutting Down Ye Cangxuan</h4>

    ¡°Kill!¡± Ye Cangxuan roared angrily. His voice was so powerful that the air boiled like water, and the stars in the sky seemed to tremble from the intensity of his roar.

    The sheer force of his voice ruptured the eardrums of some of the onlookers.

    Ye Cangxuan had to use that method to raise his aura, else he likely would not have survived the attack.

    He unleashed an attack with everything he had. Despite having one arm severed, his attack remained incredibly fearsome. Chen Fan felt a menacing aura lock onto him immediately.

    In a sh, Ye Cangxuan¡¯s trident darted towards Chen Fan with a speed that outpaced its previous strikes, like a lightning bolt, causing the heavens and earth to tremble.

    Ye Cangxuan had pushed his power to its limits.

    He had already put life and death aside, focusing solely on killing Chen Fan.

    He appeared almost reborn, towering and radiating an indescribable aura.

    There seemed to be gods and devils wailing on his trident. As he thrust it forward, time seemed to freeze and everything around him withered.

    A massive blinding divine light shot from his eyes, capable of melting even thergest mountains. Chen Fan stood in his ce, momentarily stunned by Ye Cangxuan¡¯s terrifying presence, seemingly forgetting to defend himself.

    <i>Pop, pop, pop!</i>

    Just as Ye Cangxuan¡¯s attack was about to hit Chen Fan, an iparably sharp light red from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    With a calm, almost casual movement, Chen Fan raised his arm and shed at Ye Cangxuan.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The trident was violently knocked away. Ye Cangxuan staggered backward, blood streaming from his mouth, struggling to stay upright as he trembled uncontrobly.

    A wave of indescribable, terrifying force surged into him, wreaking havoc and filling his face with terror.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent.

    He struck out with his left palm, making the surrounding air crumble under the immense pressure. The force was so overwhelming that it made countless people shiver in fear.

    The force relentlessly pursued Ye Cangxuan, shattering his protective true primeval.

    ¡°You... Chen Fan, you...¡± Ye Cangxuan staggered left and right unsteadily as if he were drunk, staring fixedly at Chen Fan.

    He began to crack open like shattered porcin, blood gushing out as he disintegrated into countless fragments.

    The energy from the attack still attacked those flesh chunks, blowing them up into powder. Ye Cangxuan, a top expert who dominated the Hong Domain, disintegratedpletely in front of the crowd, leaving no corpse behind.

    He died!

    In an instant, heaven and earth seemed to have fallen silent. Not even the sound of breathing could be heard.

    The spectators stared in shock at the spot where Ye Cangxuan had vanished, their eyes wide with disbelief.

    Ye Cangxuan was the ck Dragon Empire¡¯s number-one genius of the younger generation. He was a supreme genius on par with Li Yao and others, but he had been reduced to nothingness. The crowd was nonplussed, unable toprehend the utter destruction of a figure who was supposed to have a brilliant future.

    The crowd felt nothing but shock.

    Many geniuses had died on the Hidden Dragon Ind. However, how many of them were on Ye Cangxuan¡¯s level? Only a handful were invincible experts who dominated the ind.

    To see him fall at the hands of Chen Fan, a four-revolution Golden Core martial artist, was shocking.

    ¡°He died...¡± muttered someone.

    ¡°Heavens, I¡¯m not hallucinating, am I? Ye Cangxuan... died? <i>Gulp</i>!¡±

    ¡°He really died! He¡¯s dead for real! With no corpse left behind! This is too terrifying! An eight-revolution Golden Core realm expert, someone who could stand against thousands and dominate the world, is actually... dead.¡±

    ¡°And it¡¯s not just him¡ªI fear Yin Jiu might also meet the same fate!¡±

    In an instant, countless gazes shifted onto Yin Jiu, who was still nailed to the ground and struggling bitterly.

    That¡¯s right.

    Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu had attacked Chen Fan together, setting up an inescapable of heaven and earth for him to ensure his death. Even so, Chen Fan turned everything around with his terrifying strength.

    Now that Ye Cangxuan is dead, could Yin Jiu still live?

    They couldn¡¯t defeat Chen Fan even after joining forces, let alone now when Yin Jiu was left alone and injured.

    ¡°This battle is over,¡± Li Yao said, shaking his head. ¡°No one could have expected this. The Battle Heaven Alliance set up an inescapable trap to kill Chen Fan, but he broke free and turned the trap against them.¡±

    He felt some pity toward Ye Cangxuan. Here was a genius, renowned and respected as his equal, meeting such an untimely end.

    However, on the Hidden Dragon Ind, even someone as powerful as the prince of the Great Li Imperial Court could meet a grim fate if they overreached.

    He set up such a big scene when he wasn¡¯t strong enough. Who could he me for his death?

    ¡°With Ye Cangxuan dead, Yin Jiu won¡¯t fare any better, pinned to the ground like that. What a pity. Two heavenly geniuses on par with us fell to Chen Fan, a four-revolution Golden Core. Hoho.¡± Xuanyuan Po chuckled lightly.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Yin Jiu, nailed to the ground, finally pulled the Heaven Piercing Spear off of him. He turned around, wanting to look for Chen Fan. What he saw next would haunt him forever.

    Ye Cangxuan had been obliterated, leaving no trace behind. The sheer terror of witnessing such a fate was overwhelming.

    ¡°What?¡± Yin Jiu watched this scene in disbelief, feeling as if an invisible hand was squeezing his heart, his soul trembling.

    He had never imagined that their carefully set trap would lead to their own destruction.

    Yin Jiu¡¯s heart was deeply shaken.

    Ye Cangxuan¡¯s death had too great of an impact on him.

    Only a single thought remained in his mind: flee. Escape from the Hidden Dragon Ind. He didn¡¯t want to die.

    ¡°Now, it¡¯s your turn. Didn¡¯t your Battle Heaven Alliancey out this borate trap to kill me? Let¡¯s see who can save you now.¡± Chen Fan looked at Yin Jiu with an icy gaze.

    An icy dread surged from Yin Jiu¡¯s feet to the top of his head. Chen Fan appeared to him as the grim reaper, looming to im his life.

    ¡°Where are the Battle Heaven Alliance members?¡± Yin Jiu suddenly shouted, desperate to summon the remaining members to help him defeat Chen Fan.

    In truth, he wasn¡¯t just calling for reinforcements; he wanted them to distract Chen Fan so he could escape.

    However, no one answered his call.

    Although some of the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s elites were still alive, none were willing toe to his aid. They weren¡¯t eager to face certain death themselves.

 Chapter 585 - Dust Settled

    <h4>Chapter 585 - Dust Settled</h4>

    ¡°Where are the Battle Heaven Alliance members?¡± Yin Jiu roared angrily, desperate to rally the remnants of the alliance to unite and take down Chen Fan.

    With Ye Cangxuan dead, Yin Jiu knew he couldn''t face Chen Fan alone.

    He didn¡¯t want to die, but would Chen Fan show him any mercy?

    Obviously not!

    So, his only option was to assemble the remaining Battle Heaven Alliance members to encircle and attack Chen Fan, buying time for his escape.

    The fate of these people was of no concern to him¡ªhe was only focused on saving himself.

    However, no one answered his call even after ten breaths¡¯ time.

    The entire space was quiet. Only the sound of wind blowing could be heard.

    The alliance members only looked at Chen Fan with pale faces. Yin Jiu¡¯s plea was clearly a death sentence, and they weren¡¯t foolish enough to walk into it.

    Suddenly, wind-breaking noises rang out.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    It turned out to be the Battle Heaven Alliance members retreating rapidly. Not only did they refuse to help, but they also pulled back further, fearing Chen Fan¡¯s wrath if he survived.

    Yin Jiu¡¯s fate was of no concern to them.

    Yin Jiu felt so frustrated he could vomit blood.

    Chen Fan did not stop these people from leaving either.

    They were only minions obeying Yin Jiu and Ye Cangxuan¡¯s orders. The two of them were the real masterminds.

    ¡°It seems like no one will be helping you,¡± Chen Fan mocked, looking at Yin Jiu.

    Yin Jiu¡¯s expression became discouraged and defeated.

    His n to sacrifice the alliance members to save himself had failed. The members were obviously afraid of Chen Fan, not to mention they weren¡¯t idiots. There was no way they would obey him now.

    They had joined the alliance for a single reason: to avoid being bullied by others whilepeting for opportunities on Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Now that Ye Cangxuan had died and Yin Jiu¡¯s death was imminent, the Battle Heaven Alliance was all but wiped out. After barely surviving, was it worth it to throw their lives away now?

    They hadn¡¯t followed Ye Cangxuan or Yin Jiu out of loyalty¡ªwhy would they serve as human shields for Yin Jiu now?

    Yin Jiu looked at Chen Fan, terrified. He hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to turn the tables sopletely, leaving him in this desperate situation.

    ¡°I am sure you never expected that things would end like this. Your trap ended up hurting yourself. Even your subordinates have forsaken you. Anyst words?¡± Chen Fan looked at Yin Jiu indifferently, seemingly looking at a corpse.

    Yin Jiu¡¯s expression became calm all of a sudden. He stared fixedly at Chen Fan and said coldly, ¡°I regret not hunting you down personally when you still hadn¡¯t matured. None of this would have happened if I had.¡±

    ¡°Ridiculous!¡± Chen Fanughed, shaking his head in disdain. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t have mattered even if you had. You¡¯re no match for me now, and you wouldn¡¯t have been back then either.¡±

    Yin Jiu remained indifferent.

    Chen Fan¡¯s words were not wrong.

    Yin Jiu was now in the eight-revolution Golden Core realm. Naturally, he could easily kill the Chen Fan from before with his current cultivation; unfortunately, that wasn¡¯t his cultivation level back then.

    ¡°Your mistake was provoking me. You thought you could bully me into surrendering my Martial Dao Will fragment because I am alone. The second you made the decision, your fate was sealed,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡± Yin Jiuughed out loud coldly and shouted, ¡°The winner is king. I lost today because I¡¯m not strong enough, but it won¡¯t be easy for you to kill me. Die!¡±

    As Yin Jiu shouted angrily, he came rushing over with hisrge ax, wanting to split heaven and earth apart and return it to a state of primal chaos.

    He was at the end of his rope now.

    Since Chen Fan would not let him off, he might as well fight him to death. Even if he had to die, he would not make it easy for Chen Fan.

    Yin Jiu ignited his golden core. His aura instantly soared, rolling and tumbling.

    He had no other way.

    Chen Fan remained unmoved. He sent a palm strike to sh the aura. Arge golden palm swept across the sky, sting toward Yin Jiu.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Yin Jiu spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood and was pushed back several steps.

    ¡°I¡¯ll send you on your way!¡±

    A cold, fierce light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He strode forth imposingly, stirring up a vast aura behind him, suppressing heaven and earth and causing the space to rumble. Yin Jiu was oppressed to the point of being pushed back, unable to hold himself together, his eyes flickering.

    Too powerful!

    Chen Fan was too strong!

    Despite igniting his golden core and gathering the powers of heaven and earth, Yin Jiu was being crushed under this terrifying aura.

    Chen Fan¡¯s attacks were bing faster, beating Yin Jiu relentlessly. He kept spewing blood repeatedly as he flew around like a leaf in the wind, powerless to retaliate at all.

    The crowd was simply stupefied.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    <i>Crack!</i>

    <i>Crack!</i>

    Yin Jiu¡¯s bones cracked and shattered. Fresh blood dripped onto the ground.

    The crowd looked at one another in disbelief. Was Yin Jiu going to die like this?

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan sent Yin Jiu flying with a palm strike. He crashed into a mountain peak in the distance, pulverizing it.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan condensed a Heaven Piercing Spear in his hand and hurled it out.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear pierced Yin Jiu again, the momentum carrying him backward. He copsed several mountain peaks before getting nailed to a hundred-foot-tall mountain.

    Everyone was at a loss for words.

    Yin Jiu had fallen as well, crushed by Chen Fan, and was nailed to death on a mountain.

    This moment became an indelible memory, a mental image seared into the minds of countless onlookers. As they gazed at Chen Fan¡¯s invincible figure, awe filled their eyes. Who could possibly stand against someone like him?

    Li Yao?

    Though Li Yao was immensely powerful, even he might not be a match for Chen Fan.

    ¡°The show hase to an end. How spectacr. It¡¯s time to go.¡± Li Yao took onest, deep look at Chen Fan before finally waving his hand and leading the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance members away with a sense of majesty.

    It was clear that challenging someone like Chen Fan would only lead to trouble.

    ¡°There¡¯s still twenty days left. I must advance to the Divine Nascent realm before the trial ends. Otherwise, crossing the Sacred Road will be nearly impossible,¡± Xuanyuan Po said, his interest waning as he departed with his people.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Qiu Yuexin did not say anything. She had a cold and cheerless personality. Now that the curtains had closed on the huge battle and the dust settled, it was time for her to leave and seize the time to search for the final opportunity.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh...</i>

    Soon, the four major alliances¡¯ people left in session.

    Although the two supreme geniuses, Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu, had perished, their fall brought about the rise of a new star: Chen Fan.

    Soon, the people who came to watch the show also left.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Xiao Zhen and the others flew over. He looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°How are you, Chen Fan? Are you alright?¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Nothing major. Just that I¡¯ve exhausted myself a little too much. I got you guys into trouble this time.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not to be med. We can only say that the Battle Heaven Alliance¡¯s people are too shameless and despicable.¡± Xiao Zhen and the others shook their heads one after another.

 Chapter 586 - Li Yao Advances into the Divine Nascent Realm

    <h4>Chapter 586 - Li Yao Advances into the Divine Nascent Realm</h4>

    Chen Fan made his dramatic entrance during the final half-day of the three-day deadline set by the Battle Heaven Alliance, taking them on single-handedly.

    His challenge reverberated throughout Hidden Dragon Ind, instantly making him the center of attention.

    His previous feat of taking the Martial Dao Will Fragment bare-handed was minor news, and killing Nie Tao and Yun Tao had caused a smallmotion on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    But his solo fight with the Battle Heaven Alliance and the subsequent deaths of Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu¡ªtwo of the Hong Domain¡¯s most renowned geniuses¡ªcaused a seismic shift in the ind¡¯sndscape.

    After all, Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu were on par with figures like Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and Xuanyuan Po.

    Theirbined effort against the rtively unknown Chen Fan, which ultimately ended in their deaths, was akin to a meteor crashing into ake, creating monumental ripples.

    Before this, Ye Cangxuan had been forgotten by many, hidden as a leader within the Battle Heaven Alliance and operating behind the scenes with Yin Jiu.

    The alliance had made a massive effort to eliminate Chen Fan, with Ye Cangxuan positioned as their trump card to deliver a decisive blow. He even almost achieved his goal. Had Chen Fan not mastered the Green Lotus Sword Scripture, the oue might have been very different.

    s, none could have expected the oue. Ye Cangxuan¡¯s sneak attack failed, and Chen Fan ended the two legends, turning them into history.

    As a result, Chen Fan became a super expert who could stand shoulder to shoulder with Li Yao and the others overnight. Many even believed that Chen Fan¡¯s strength might have surpassed the number one figure, Li Yao.

    Aside from Chen Fan, no one would dare to say they could take on Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu in a one-against-two fight.

    Most importantly, Chen Fan was only a four-revolution Golden Core realm expert. Yet, he had the strength to kill eight-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    This kind of potential and talent was too terrifying; it was even above Li Yao¡¯s.

    Li Yao, the prince of the Great Li Imperial Court and a favored son of Emperor Li, was expected to reach the Heavenly Star realm in the future.

    Comparing them further entuated Chen Fan¡¯s monstrous and extraordinary talent.

    Even Li Yao could not have achieved the same feat as Chen Fan when he was in the four-revolution Golden Core realm.

    ¡°What? That Chen Fan actually killed two eight-revolution Golden Core realm supreme experts? How is that possible!¡±

    ¡°They joined hands and were still no match for Chen Fan? What a monster, this Chen Fan is too monstrous! Is he the reincarnation of an ancient god or what?¡±

    ¡°A heavenly god descending into the mortal world! Chen Fan has to be a heavenly god¡¯s descent into the world. How else can you exin his power? This, this... this is the only way to exin it. Nothing else makes sense.¡±

    ¡°The Battle Heaven Alliance thought they were dealing with an easy target, but Chen Fan turned out to be a fierce tiger in sheep¡¯s clothing¡±

    ¡°The infinitely glorious Battle Heaven Alliance vanished into thin air overnight. Tsk, tsk, things in this world are truly unpredictable.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu¡¯s deaths shook the entire Hidden Dragon Ind, especially when the details of the battle spread throughout the ind. It stirred up a storm. Everyone found it unbelievable that such a monstrously powerful figure could exist.

    Even so, the truth was right in front of their eyes.

    After all, many had witnessed that unprecedented battle. Even Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and the others were there in person. It could not be faked.

    Chen Fan¡¯s name became firmly etched in everyone¡¯s minds as they recognized him as an extraordinarily talented genius.

    Yet, in a ce like Hidden Dragon Ind, where sensational events weremon, no topic remained the focus forever.

    Soon, Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu¡¯s deaths were gradually reced by other news.

    During the final twenty days of the trial, everyone was working with renewed efforts, searching for opportunities and seizing every chance to raise their strengths.

    They didn¡¯t aim to reach the levels of Chen Fan, Li Yao, and others but hoped to make the most of their time on the ind without regrets.

    On Hidden Dragon Ind, the atmosphere grew turbulent as time passed. Many heavenly geniuses fell, but others reaped significant benefits, rapidly increasing their power and gaining overnight fame.

    As ten days slipped by, a groundbreaking piece of news nearly rocked the entire ind.

    It was reported that, following Chen Fan¡¯s decisive battle against the Battle Heaven Alliance, Li Yao, inspired and driven, embarked on a frantic search for opportunities.

    He eventually discovered a well-preserved ruin¡ªthe Alchemy Room of Hidden Dragon Ind, a ce known for producing elixirs.

    Within this Alchemy Room, Li Yao uncovered a treasure: a Yin Yang Divine Soul Pill. Despite being three thousand years old, the pill¡¯s medicinal properties remainedrgely intact.

    Li Yao sessfully advanced to the Divine Nascent realm using it, triggering an enormous phenomenon of heaven and earth. The divine nascent grand tribtion was summoned, and he easily overcame it.

    This news spread across Hidden Dragon Ind like wildfire.

    No one had expected Li Yao to be so lucky as to find a Yin Yang Divine Soul Pill, a well-preserved one, in the Alchemy Room in the final leg of the trial.

    With cultivation in the Divine Nascent realm, he would be considered a top expert across the entire Hong Domain. His power was so great that with a mere step, he could influence the very ground beneath him.

    In the weaker empires of the thirty-six nations, he could be the leader of a sect, an existence that was like a stabilizing force worshiped by countless people.

    Why did everyonee to the Hidden Dragon Ind and go through this trial? It was to search for opportunities to raise their strength and advance to the Divine Nascent realm.

    The Hong Domain¡¯s number one genius of the younger generation, Li Yao, was the first to advance into the Divine Nascent realm, leaving everyone else in the dust.

    Although Chen Fan had recently risen to prominence, surpassing Li Yao¡¯s previous standing, this achievement was overshadowed by Li Yao¡¯s advancement to the Divine Nascent realm.

    Even though Chen Fan had the strength to ovee four small realms to kill geniuses like Ye Cangxuan, the difference between the Core Formation realm and the Divine Nascent realm was like a chasm¡ªone was grounded while the other soared in the sky.

    Now that Li Yao had be a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, he was no longer on the same level as Chen Fan and the others.

 Chapter 587 â€“ Qingxu

    <h4>Chapter 587 ¨C Qingxu</h4>

    The ten days brought about significant changes in the situation on Hidden Dragon Ind. Many geniuses fell, while new ones rose to prominence.

    Take Xiao Zhen, for example. Shortly after Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu died, he stumbled upon the cultivation ground of a Hidden Dragon Ind senior and inherited their legacy. His cultivation improved by leaps and bounds, reaching the seven-revolution Golden Core realm.

    He was not alone in benefiting from the ind¡¯s opportunities. Many others also made significant progress, but the ind still only had a handful of seven-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    Xiao Zhen¡¯s rapid rise, from five-revolution to the seven-revolution, made him a notable figure.

    Although Xiao Zhen¡¯s meteoric rise to fame was striking, nearly everyone on the ind experienced breakthroughs.

    Some made remarkable advances, leaping from the seventh-level Core Formation realm to the two- or three-revolution Golden Core realm.

    Such progress would be unthinkable in the outside world without years, if not decades, of effort.

    On Hidden Dragon Ind, however, such breakthroughs were achievable.

    Although the ind was not as big as the Hong Domain, cultivation resources were abundant here. Not manynds of treasures like this could be found in the Hong Domain.

    After three thousand years, natural treasures of heaven and earth could be seen everywhere. Just those were enough for these heavenly geniuses to cultivate to a very high level without having to worry about cultivation resources.

    Finally, the crowd felt like their trip to the Hidden Dragon Ind hadn¡¯t been in vain.

    Cultivating here for a hundred days was as good as cultivating for several years outside. However, the risk factor was equally high.

    To date, countless geniuses had been eliminated. Out of the original group of over a thousand, only a few hundred remained.

    Elimination here meant death¡ªthere were no other means.

    However, no one felt that there was any problem with this.

    The world was simply this cruel. The weak fall prey to the strong.

    The survivors, now mostly Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm experts, benefited from the ind¡¯s exceptional cultivation efficiency, but the mortality rate was steep. Reports of people going mad weremon.

    Aside from the fighting between people, conflicts with the ind¡¯s demonic beasts were escting.

    The ind was a treasure trove, and the demonic beasts, with their strong territorial instincts, fiercely guarded their domain.

    As human martial artists tried to im these treasures, how could the demonic beasts be willing to let it happen? Would they agree to it?

    Suffice to say, conflict was inevitable.

    The beasts, developed over three thousand years of growth and reproduction, were formidable. In some of the ind¡¯s deeper regions, their roars alone could instill fear in even five or six-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    As the crowd slowly headed deeper into the Hidden Dragon Ind to explore, shing with these powerful demonic beastmunities became inevitable. Numerous tragic battles erupted, and both human and demonic beasts suffered heavy losses.

    Still, many people were happy about it.

    After all, the death of others meant more benefits for them. Many people gained extremely huge benefits that propelled them to the top ranks of experts.

    This boost in power led many to believe they were invincible, convinced that only others would fall, not them.

    This self-deception fueled their relentless pursuit of exploration, despite the high mortality rate.

    During this process, many people obtained huge benefits, which further encouraged others to head toward the center of the ind. The news of Li Yao¡¯s incredible advancement to the Divine Nascent realm spread like wildfire, igniting a fervor across the ind.

    Ten days ago, Li Yao had been a peak eight-revolution Golden Core realm expert. Now, he went ahead of everyone else, reaching a level countless people could only dream of.

    This aplishment sparked intense envy among top figures like Xuanyuan Po, Gongsun Zhong, and Wuyazi, who were eager not to fall behind Li Yao.

    As a result, human forces streamed towards the ind¡¯s depths in waves, hoping to get lucky like Li Yao. They all wanted their own heavenly opportunities and achieve a simr breakthrough.

    Chen Fan, Xiao Zhen, and some others who had chosen not to align with the major forces had chosen an oasis as their resting spot.

    Having just returned from a sessful sweep of a demonic beast territory, where he had refined about a dozen drops of true dragon blood, Chen Fan encountered Xiao Zhen.

    Xiao Zhen immediately said, ¡°You¡¯re back, Chen Fan. Something big happened on the ind.¡±

    Puzzled, Chen Fan asked, ¡°What big event happened?¡±

    ¡°Li Yao is now a Divine Nascent realm expert!¡± Xiao Zhen broke the explosive news.

    ¡°Li Yao advanced to the Divine Nascent realm?!¡± Chen Fan was also very shocked.

    It had not been more than ten days since hest saw Li Yao, but thetter had already advanced to the Divine Nascent realm. It was simply unimaginable.

    Xiao Zhen proceeded to give Chen Fan a rough summary of what had happened.

    ¡°Li Yao discovered an Alchemy Room ruin and found a Yin Yang Divine Soul Pill, which was nearly intact. He used it to advance to the Divine Nascent realm... His luck is extraordinary,¡± muttered Chen Fan.

    Xiao Zhen nodded and said, ¡°I know, right? I thought I was fortunate to have found the legacy of a senior from the Hidden Dragon Ind, but Li Yao¡¯s stroke of luck with that pill surpasses anything. Tsk, tsk.

    ¡°Now, the others like Xuanyuan Po and Gongsun Zhong are driven by Li Yao. They mobilized their respective forces and headed toward that ¡®ghost mountain¡¯ at the center of the ind. Rumor has it that the core pce of the Hidden Dragon Ind is located there. Despite the heavy damage it sustained, there might still be valuable treasures.¡±

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°I keep getting the feeling that that mountain is somewhat strange. It gives off an ominous feeling. But I don¡¯t want to get involved with that right now. I¡¯m going into secluded cultivation.¡±

    He had killed countless demonic beasts in the past few days, refining over a hundred drops of a true dragon¡¯s blood.

    Although the true dragon blood wasn¡¯t very pure, it should be enough to push his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fifteenthyer ofplete mastery.

    ......

    Center of the Hidden Dragon Ind, the ghost mountain:

    Yin qi filled the space, ghostly clouds covered the sky.

    Once upon a time, this ce was the core of the Hidden Dragon Ind and the most prosperous location. All sorts of pces and pavilions had been built here, covered in a glorious splendor.

    But now, this ce was enveloped by boundless death qi. It seemed countless souls, ones unwilling to reincarnate, were wandering around here.

    At the base of the ghost mountain, a figure in Daoist robes appeared¡ªQingxu, the youth Daoist.

    Qingxu looked at the ghost mountain filled with ghost qi. A meaningful smile appeared on his face that sent shivers down people¡¯s spines.

    ¡°I spent thirteen years undercover in the Daoist temple and mastered the Departed Spirits Summoning Technique. Hehe, for the holy cult, today, I shall end the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation.¡± Qingxu smiled eerily, then strode toward the top of the ghost mountain.

 Chapter 588 - Fifteenth Layer of Complete Mastery

    <h4>Chapter 588 - Fifteenth Layer of Complete Mastery</h4>

    ¡°After more than a decade spent as a spy in the Daoist temple... I have the chance to end all these young talents. All for the glorious holy cult!¡± Standing at the foot of the ghost mountain, Qingxu looked at the mountain shrouded by various kinds of evil qi.

    With an eerie smile, he strode toward the top of the ghost mountain.

    On the ghost mountain, gusts of gloomy wind blew. White bones were all over the ce, together with the traces of various weapons¡¯ attacks.

    The traces were still radiating bursts of fierce and dangerous aura, which could even be a cause for rm for four or five-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    The Hidden Dragon Ind¡¯s people had fought the invaders with all their strength, making the stars copse and the continent sink. Countless lives were lost.

    The white bones scattered all over the ce underscored the tragic nature of the battle.

    As Qingxu climbed higher, he passed many pces and pavilions that had once been magnificent but were now reduced to ruins. Everything had turned to dust, unrecognizable from its former glory.

    Eventually, Qingxu reached arge pce. Though now in ruins and seemingly on the brink of copse, it was clear that this pce had once been the grand main pce of Hidden Dragon Ind.

    ¡°<i>Heh heh</i>, excellent. The vengeful qi here is at its thickest. Just the perfect ce to use the Departed Spirits Summoning Technique. Prepare to deal with a deadly shock, geniuses of Hong Domain. Hehehe...¡± Qingxuughed sinisterly, then sat cross-legged on the ground. He radiated a strange qi fluctuation as he began chanting and forming profound, mysterious seals with his hands.

    Following his actions, changes suddenly happened on the ghost mountain.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The winds howled, and the clouds churned as if echoing the wails of the dead. The thick ghost qi that had enveloped the ghost mountain began surging violently as if the slumbering souls within were being awakened.

    <i>Kakaka, kakaka...</i>

    Chilling noises echoed through the air. The scattered white bones on the ground started to move, rolling about like gourds.

    It seemed as though an unseen force was drawing them together, transforming them into bone-corpse demons.

    Meanwhile, the perpetrator, Qingxu, kept his eyes tightly shut, chanting cryptic words as if unaware of the changes in his surroundings.

    During this time, numerous figures were making their way toward the ghost mountain.

    As for Chen Fan, he was preparing to go into seclusion to advance to the fifteenthyer of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    His strength had risen to a new level after he had advanced to the five-revolution Golden Core realm. He could even face nine-revolution Golden Core realm experts now.

    He had abandoned any unrealistic hope of reaching the Divine Nascent realm before the trial ended¡ªit was simply beyond reach.

    Chen Fan instead focused on refining the true dragon''s blood. He had in numerous demonic beasts with traces of the true dragon¡¯s bloodline, refining over a hundred drops of this precious substance. However, this true dragon¡¯s blood was vastly inferior to the divine blood of an actual true dragon.

    A true dragon was akin to a god, and a single drop of its divine blood held iprehensible power, capable of reshaping epochs with its strength.

    If Chen Fan could obtain a drop of a real true dragon¡¯s blood, let alone advancing to the fifteenthyer, he could even transform into a true dragon.

    Back on the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land, that pool contained the blood of a Rain Dragon, not a True Dragon. That Rain Dragon hadn¡¯t even matured, too young to go through its divine tribtion. Yet, its blood carried a hint of divinity.

    This drop of Rain Dragon¡¯s blood, despite not reaching divine blood levels, had copsed space-time and ended up in the Dragon Mountain Blessed Land. Over countless years, most of its energy had dissipated, but it still provided significant benefits to Chen Fan and Qin Yao.

    The True Dragon¡¯s blood Chen Fan had refined thus far was only equivalent to traces of a true dragon¡¯s divine blood.

    The demonic beasts he defeated only carried faint traces of the true dragon¡¯s bloodline¡ªthey were not actual descendants of true dragons.

    If they had possessed a more concentrated bloodline, their strength would beparable to the Divine Nascent or even the Heavenly Star realm.

    The hundreds of drops of true dragon¡¯s blood were only about the size of Chen Fan¡¯s fist when gathered.

    ¡°Hopefully, this will help me make that final leap!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed with determination.

    His Myriad Elephants Divine Art was at the peak of the fourteenthyer. He only had to take this final half step to advance to the fifteenthyer, reaching the realm ofplete mastery.

    At that point, his physical strength would be immense. He would be able to use the Strength of Myriad Elephants at will and could face a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse relying solely on his physique.

    He felt something inside him throbbing, so he quickly channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, absorbing the energy contained within the mass of true dragon¡¯s blood.

    As soon as the energy entered him, it immediately spread throughout his limbs, skeleton, blood, flesh, and sinews. His cells responded with a joyful vigor, as if they had just received a long-awaited feast.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan¡¯s physique grew even stronger. The Myriad Elephants Divine Art gradually advanced toward the fifteenthyer ofplete mastery.

    Time slowly passed just like this for five days.

    Chen Fan was fully immersed in cultivation, refining the energy contained in that mass of true dragon¡¯s blood. His flesh continuously grew stronger. Bursts of oppressive aura blossomed continuously.

    Invisible qi waves fluctuated with Chen Fan at the center like flowing water.

    Despite the true dragon¡¯s blood being merely a trace of divine blood, its power was still formidable enough to push his Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the fifteenthyer.

    It seemed like countless ancient dragon-elephants were hissing in Chen Fan¡¯s flesh and blood cells, swinging their trunks and picking the stars in the sky.

    The Myriad Elephants Divine Art gave birth to the power of ancient giant elephants, while Chen Fan¡¯s physique was supported by the powerful true dragon¡¯s bloodline. Thebination of the two gave birth to the power of ancient dragon-elephants.

    Ancient dragon-elephants awakened in Chen Fan¡¯s flesh and blood cells and all of his acupuncture points, unleashing terrifying strength. It propelled Chen Fan¡¯s physique to a whole new level.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    The sound of something breaking free, like a cocoon splitting open or an embryo awakening, echoed within Chen Fan. A powerful aura surged from his skull and shot straight into the sky.

    Immediately, the berserk air current formed gusts of whirlwind, swirling around behind him.

    A faint image of an ancient dragon-elephant, as massive as a mountain, began to take shape. It carried a wild and berserk aura, trampling everything as it stepped out from the void with a rumble.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    Qi burst from every pore in Chen Fan¡¯s body, like the ring of ship horns or the buzzing of countless bees.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan opened his eyes and stood up.

    All of his muscles jumped, rippling with power as they expanded and contracted.

    The ancient dragon-elephant was resurrected. A suffocating sense of oppression instantly filled heaven and earth, and the air stopped moving.

 Chapter 589 - Radical Changes on the Hidden Dragon Island

    <h4>Chapter 589 - Radical Changes on the Hidden Dragon Ind</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan shook, and the surrounding space quaked violently. He punched the air, producing a deafening roar that seemed to tear through space.

    As he walked, it seemed like an ancient dragon-elephant was trampling the ground, making the earth tremble and rumble.

    The entire oasis felt as if it were experiencing an earthquake. Buildings rattled noisily, and dust cascaded from the beams.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Is it an earthquake?¡±

    Several figures rushed outside, their faces filled with rm and panic.

    ¡°Don¡¯t panic!¡± Xiao Zhen had also rushed out. Sensing the disturbance, he quickly focused on Chen Fan¡¯s residence. The intense aura immediately caught his attention; it felt as though an ancient, ferocious beast had awoken.

    ¡°That¡¯s an overwhelming, oppressive aura. Chen Fan?¡±

    Others also felt the terrifying energy emanating from Chen Fan¡¯s house. Their faces paled with horror. The presence felt like an ancient beast had awakened from its slumber, making them tremble with dread.

    Xiao Zhen¡¯s eyes flickered, and he shouted, ¡°It¡¯s fine. That¡¯s just Brother Chen practicing. No need to panic, everyone. Just go back to your tasks.¡±

    ¡°<i>Phew</i>, that guy really doesn¡¯t spare people from worries. I thought some powerful demon beast hade to attack.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? The entire oasis was trembling¡ªit felt like an earthquake or an army marching. Turns out it was just Chen Fan practicing his cultivation technique. I wonder what kind of cultivation technique he¡¯s using to create such amotion.¡±

    ¡°It should be a heaven-tier cultivation technique, at the very least. Don¡¯t forget that he obtained a page of the ancient scripture. There¡¯s probably some top-tier martial art on it. What we saw might be the result of him practicing that.¡±

    ¡°Looks like Li Yao¡¯s advancement into the Divine Nascent realm has stimted him greatly. If Chen Fan has made progress, his strength must be even more formidable. Do you think he has also reached the Divine Nascent realm?¡±

    ¡°How is that possible? The Divine Nascent realm is a whole different level from the Core Formation realm. Even if he¡¯s improved significantly, he¡¯s probably still only able to dominate those below the Divine Nascent realm. I doubt he¡¯s at a level where he canpete with a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.¡±

    ¡°Even so, that¡¯s impressivepared to us. We¡¯re only in the three-revolution Golden Core realm. While that¡¯s not weak, we¡¯re like antspared to him.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people looked at Chen Fan¡¯s house, their gazes filled with awe and envy.

    Who even knew him before setting foot on the ind?

    However, after Chen Fan retrieved a Martial Dao Will fragment, he became famous overnight on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Afterward, he cut down Nie Tao and Yun Tao.

    Half a month ago, he challenged the Battle Heaven Alliance alone, taking on both Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu, both eight-revolution Golden Core realm peerless experts. He killed them both, thoroughly shaking the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    In less than a hundred days, Chen Fan went from an unknown minor character to bing a super expert,parable to top geniuses like Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, and others.

    This meteoric rise was enough to make even the proudest geniuses envious and grudgingly impressed. Not everyone could achieve what Chen Fan had.

    ¡°There¡¯s still five days left. I¡¯m nning to explore the ghost mountain. I heard there¡¯s already quite a lot of people there. Maybe I can find some profit. Is anyone interested in joining me?¡± someone asked.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going too.¡±

    Many people responded positively. Even Xiao Zhen was nning to make a trip to the ghost mountain.

    When he had first met Chen Fan, thetter¡¯s cultivation was only at the peak of the ninth level, while he was a three-revolution Golden Core realm expert. Noticing Chen Fan¡¯s extraordinary strength, he invited Chen Fan to retrieve the Earth Fire Heaven Lotus.

    He was stronger than Chen Fan then. Now, however, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation had skyrocketed, and Xiao Zhen struggled to even catch a glimpse of his progress.

    He was now a seven-revolution Golden Core realm supreme expert and had obtained the legacy of a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse. So, he could advance to the Heavenly Star realm in the future. However,pared to Chen Fan, this tiny bit of achievement was not worth mentioning at all.

    A man with pride, he refused to be too far behind Chen Fan.

    Despite the ghost mountain''s ominous aura, it had once been the heart of Hidden Dragon Ind. Even though it was now in ruins, there were surely still valuable discoveries to be made.

    Calling out to the others, Xiao Zhen said, ¡°Wait up! I¡¯ming with you.¡±

    Suddenly, a deafening noise erupted, shaking the very souls of those on Hidden Dragon Ind.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Immediately afterward, loud furious roars from demonic beasts rang out from the depths of the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    These roars were unprecedented as if the powerful beasts had been startled into a furious outcry.

    Xiao Zhen and the others froze and looked up in the ghost mountain¡¯s direction.

    There, the winds and clouds churned violently, creating a storm-like atmosphere. The eerie winds howled as if something iparably terrifying had awakened.

    Xiao Zhen and the others saw a mass of iparably dark clouds and mists arising on the ghost mountain. Twisted faces could be seen in those clouds as if those were the souls of those who had died on the ind.

    The sight sent chills down their spines. It wasn¡¯t just the oasis that was affected; everyone on Hidden Dragon Ind witnessed this scene and was struck with shock and deep fear.

    ¡°What just happened?¡±

    Below the ghost mountain, the Heaven¡¯s Equal Alliance, Saber Sword Alliance, Goddess Alliance, and Myriad Truths Alliance had all gathered. Aside from the four super alliances, many smaller forces were also present.

    After several days of scouting, they had finally reached the foot of the ghost mountain, ready to ascend, exorcise the malevolent spirits, and im any opportunities and treasures. However, the rming transformation on the mountain left them uncertain of their next move.

    An uneasy feeling spread in the hearts of these people.

    ¡°I feel a very powerful evil aura. I¡¯m afraid a cmity is about to descend.¡± Li Yao gazed at the ghost mountain, shrouded in thick ghost qi. It was as if his gaze pierced through the cover of the eerie ghost qi and saw the changes on the ghost mountain.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Just as Li Yao finished speaking, the ground shook as if an army of thousands was descending from the ghost mountain, intent on annihting everyone in its path.

 Chapter 590 - White Bone Corpse Demon

    <h4>Chapter 590 - White Bone Corpse Demon</h4>

    Chen Fan emerged from his house and asked, ¡°What is happening?¡±

    He had just achievedplete mastery of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. He was still feeling the vast and terrifying strength inside him when he heard the terrifying noise that spread throughout the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Xiao Zhen said with a grave expression, ¡°I¡¯m afraid something big has happened on the ghost mountain. The cloud and mist shrouding it have changed, showing faces of vengeful spirits.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze also shifted to the distant ghost mountain.

    Ever since he had arrived on the ind, he had been sensing something ominous from the ghost mountain, especially during nighttime. It felt as if something dreadful resided there, releasing roars that shook the souls of everyone here.

    Those eerie roars that didn¡¯t seem toe from any living creature had frightened them. But as time passed and nothing came from the mountain, the group gradually grew ustomed to them.

    Now, when the hundred-day trial was nearing its end, something huge happened on the ghost mountain. A feeling of unease enveloped the entire Hidden Dragon Ind.

    ¡°You said before that Xuanyuan Po and the others have gone exploring the ghost mountain. Could it be that they ascended and identally triggered the lingering powers from the great battle, causing these drastic changes?¡± Chen Fan said, his brow deeply furrowed. The joy from his breakthrough was swiftly reced by a sense of foreboding.

    At their cultivation level, they could already vaguely sense the shifts in fortune, both good and bad.

    The ghost mountain had undergone a huge change, one that didn¡¯t bode well. It stirred a deep unease as if a great cmity was imminent.

    This sense of foreboding was incredibly strong.

    While those with lower cultivation levels might only faintly perceive that something big was about to happen, experts like Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen were highly attuned to the changes in heaven and earth. After all, they were close to reaching the Divine Nascent realm.

    In the Divine Nascent realm, martial artists would have given birth to a divine nascent within, connecting with heaven and earth. They would be very sensitive to the changes in their surroundings. Although they were still not in the Divine Nascent realm at present, they could already sense such things.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Myriad Elephants Divine Art had advanced to the fifteenthyer, so he could take on a Divine Nascent realm expert by relying on his physical strength. Yet, he felt a strong sense of crisis.

    ¡°This doesn¡¯t make sense,¡± Xiao Zhen said, shaking his head. ¡°Even if someone triggered the residual power on the ghost mountain, it shouldn¡¯t have caused such a drastic change.¡±

    Dangers were everywhere on the Hidden Dragon Ind, especially in those ruins. These ces harbored the lingering energies of battles fought by experts three thousand years ago. A single strike could leave one severely injured at best or dead at worst.

    Incidents like this were not umon. In fact, they had urred many times before.

    ¡°Hmm... Let¡¯s go take a look at the ghost mountain.¡± Chen Fan did not say much and quickly moved. He spread the Wings of Rain Dragon and flew toward the ghost mountain.

    ......

    Below the ghost mountain, countless figures were gripped by fear and unease.

    Just moments ago, these people were excited about the prospect of setting foot on the ghost mountain, hoping to uncover some treasures.

    But now, with the sudden and drastic changes erupting on the mountain, uneasiness swept over them like a heavy, suffocating nket.

    ¡°Li Yao, you¡¯ve already advanced into the Divine Nascent realm. Your divine nascent is connected to heaven and earth, so you should be able to sense the change around you, right? Do you know what happened on the ghost mountain?¡± Xuanyuan Po asked with a grave expression.

    These top geniuses were now all in the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, just a step away from the Divine Nascent realm. Despite being so close, the gap between the two realms was vast.

    Now that the ghost mountain had undergone a drastic change, it filled them with anxiety and fear, as if they were facing imminent catastrophe.

    Li Yao closed his eyes, a light emanating from the acupuncture point at his be. He wasmunicating with heaven and earth with his divine soul to sense its changes.

    He soon opened his eyes, his expression grave, and said, ¡°The maic field on the ghost mountain is very strange. It¡¯s already disrupted the mysteries of heaven in this area, and I have no way to perceive what exactly is happening up there...¡±

    Before he could finish his sentence, a burst of rumbling noises rang out all of a sudden, as if an army of thousands was storming down the ghost mountain.

    Li Yao¡¯s expression immediately changed drastically, and he shouted, ¡°Not good, something is rushing down, on guard!¡±

    <i>nk...</i>

    Everyone drew their weapons at once, looking as if a great enemy was upon them, staring fixedly above the ghost mountain.

    Soon, the situation became clear, and they collectively gasped, feeling as though their very souls had been shaken.

    Descending from the mountain was an army of white bone corpse demons.

    These entities were an amalgamation of various bones, unlike reanimated corpses that had developed intelligence by absorbing the vengeful qi of heaven and earth to be skeletal jiangshi.

    Instead, these white-bone corpse demons wereposites from different individuals'' bones. Ghostly mes flickered in their eye sockets, and vengeful spirits resided in their foreheads.

    Li Yao immediately recognized them and roared, ¡°Not good, these are white bone corpse spirits. They are formed from various people¡¯s bones and are upied by vengeful spirits. They possess incredibly terrifying power!¡±

    As the son of Emperor Li, he was very knowledgeable.

    ¡°Damn it, why are white bone corpse demons being created? This is impossible! Who awakened the vengeful spirits and evil spirits on the ghost mountain?¡± Li Yao cried out, his eyes trembling.

    He understood that these white-bone corpse demons couldn''t have formed on their own. Someone must have roused the souls of these resentful and malevolent spirits, giving birth to these monstrosities.

    ¡°Kakakaka, such delicious flesh, such delicious souls.¡±

    ¡°Come on, join us and be white-bone corpse demons. We¡¯ll form an army of corpse demons and break through all obstacles. Sweep through the Tianwu Continent with us and conquer the world.¡±

    ¡°Hahaha, kill, kill these preys. Devour their flesh and souls. Turn them into one of us.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m still missing a sternum, kaka, very good, these bones are the best materials. I¡¯ll take their sternum and fill it on my body.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The white bone corpse demons rushed down. When they saw Li Yao and the others, they immediately let out weird, chilling cries.

    Li Yao¡¯s expression turned cold, and he said, ¡°Prepare for battle, kill!¡±

    As he gave themand, he immediately took the lead and charged.

    As he grabbed at the empty air, heaven and earth rumbled. He mobilized the primeval qi of heaven and earth in the surroundings, transforming it into a huge hand that covered the sky, sweeping over.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The massive hand crashed down as if trying to crush the heavens themselves. The leading white-bone corpse demons were instantly obliterated under this force, their bones shattering into fragments. The vengeful and evil spirits within them were utterly destroyed.

    With this single sweep, Li Yao cleared a wide area, demonstrating the formidable power of a Nascent realm expert.

 Chapter 591 - Humans and Beasts Joining Forces

    <h4>Chapter 591 - Humans and Beasts Joining Forces</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Li Yao unleashed the full might of a Divine Nascent realm expert. A massive hand of primeval qi had swept out, annihting countless white-bone corpse demons in a terrifying disy of power.

    These white-bone corpse demons were rtively weak, many being only in the Core Formation realm. They stood no chance against a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse like Li Yao and were utterly powerless to resist him.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill them!¡±

    The others also sprang into action. Powerful qi erupted from them, shaking the very heavens and earth as they charged at the white-bone corpse demons.

    Chaos erupted at the foot of the ghost mountain.

    The sh between the crowd and the white-bone corpse demons created a spectacr scene¡ªshing sabers and swords, dazzling cultivation techniques, and continuous, terrifying explosions.

    ¡°Ignore these minions. I¡¯m sure someone is creating these white-bone corpse demons. Among the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect¡¯s nine pces, only the Underworld Pce is capable of this. The evil cult¡¯s members must have infiltrated those who entered the Hidden Dragon Ind.¡± A cold light flickered in Li Yao¡¯s eyes.

    The sudden upheaval on the ghost mountain, the awakening of vengeful spirits, and the formation of these white-bone corpse demons all pointed to a hidden maniptor.

    The methods used were characteristic of the evil cult, suggesting that they had embedded themselves among the thousands who hade to the Hidden Dragon Ind. Specifically, it seemed to be remnants of the Underworld Pce, one of the nine pces of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect.

    ¡°Charge, we must kill the evil cult¡¯s remnants and neutralize the other party¡¯s cultivation technique to put an end to this situation. Otherwise, the white-bone corpse demons will be endless!¡± Li Yao¡¯s expression was cold and grim as he shoved his palm out, sweeping through the white-bone corpse demons charging ahead. He formed a path toward the top of the ghost mountain.

    But just as he was about to rush forward, a rumbling noise suddenly rang out.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying aura descended. Three thirty-foot-tall white-bone corpse demons came charging down, emanating iparably powerful auras.

    Those auras weren¡¯t much weaker than Li Yao¡¯s.

    These three white-bone corpse demons were at the half-step Divine Nascent realm. Li Yao¡¯s expression darkened.

    One of the white-bone corpse demons fixed its gaze on Li Yao and taunted, ¡°Come meet your end, kid!¡±

    The demon¡¯s skeletal hand reached into the void, and a massive, ghastly white hand materialized in front of Li Yao, pressing down and causing the air to crackle.

    ¡°Break!¡± Li Yao shouted. His regal qi erupted as he punched, shaking the heavens, blowing therge white bone hand swiping at him into smithereens.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    After these three half-step Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons appeared, several eight and nine-revolution Golden Core realm white-bone corpse demons rushed down, taking on Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, Xuanyuan Po, and the other nine-revolution Golden Core realm supreme experts.

    All of a sudden, a terrifying huge battlepletely broke out.

    ......

    Chen Fan was very fast. The Wings of Rain Dragon tore through the air as he streaked across the sky with a rumble like a falling meteorite, producing a thunderous noise as he raced toward the ghost mountain.

    While the ghost mountain was visible from anywhere on Hidden Dragon Ind, the actual distance was immense. Chen Fan traveled for a long time, encountering many others also heading toward the ghost mountain.

    Apart from human martial artists, he also saw countless powerful demonic beast groups. They had emerged from their hideouts, making their way toward the mountain as well.

    They had also sensed the changes on the Hidden Dragon Ind and were uneasy. They wanted to go to the ghost mountain and wipe out the source of their difort.

    From afar, Chen Fan saw a shocking battle taking ce at the foot of the ghost mountain. Numerous corpse demons were locked in a fierce struggle with Li Yao and others.

    Despite being outnumbered, the human martial artists were all at the nine-revolution Golden Core realm. Despite the white-bone corpse demons¡¯ numerical superiority, they couldn¡¯t withstand Li Yao and the others¡¯ assault.

    ¡°White-bone corpse demons. How could this happen?¡± Chen Fan was taken aback by the sudden emergence of so many white-bone corpse demons on the ghost mountain.

    These demons were shrouded in an overwhelming death qi, as if empowered by some dark force, descending majestically from the mountain.

    Countless cracking noises echoed continuously, creating a terrifying sound that seemed to envelop everything.

    ¡°Who awakened the slumbering souls and turned them into vengeful and evil spirits to form these white-bone corpse demons? Is there a demonic path cultivator amongst us?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, and he increased his speed further.

    In the distance, a massive sh erupted between the white-bone corpse demons and a newly arrived army of demonic beasts. Both sides were ferocious, resulting in immediate and heavy casualties.

    The human martial artists and the demonic beasts seemed to have joined forces to deal with these white-bone corpse demons.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan finally arrived at the ghost mountain. From the sky, he grabbed at the void, summoning the Purgatory Divine Halberd. He shed down violently from above. A halberd light of death instantly sted arge swathe of white-bone corpse demons, killing them.

    Those who had been surrounded by the demons and were on the verge of being torn apart saw their attackers vanish in a sh. They immediately saw Chen Fan in the air and cried out in joy.

    ¡°It¡¯s Chen Fan, Chen Fan is here!¡±

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t spare them a nce. He pressed on, climbing the ghost mountain. No white-bone corpse demon could withstand his advance; they fell before him effortlessly.

    On the mountainside, Li Yao was locked in a fierce battle with the three half-step Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons, producing earth-shaking noises. The fight was intense, with earth-shaking sounds as Li Yao gradually drove the demons back, their bones splintering under his overwhelming strength.

    <i>C!</i>

    Suddenly, a spear flew over, sting a half-step Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon on Li Yao¡¯s left side and blowing it to bits instantly.

    Li Yao also sent out two punches thatnded on the two remaining white-bone corpse demons. The terrifying force turned them into smithereens.

    Turning to see who had intervened, Li Yao spotted Chen Fan.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Chen Fan asked directly.

    Li Yao replied with a grave expression, ¡°Some remnants from the Underworld Pce have infiltrated the ind, summoned dead spirits, and created this army of white-bone corpse demons. I¡¯m afraid they n to wipe out all of us in one go.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded inwardly, confirming his suspicion. The presence of demonic path cultivators on Hidden Dragon Ind was as he had feared.

    s, this was unavoidable.

    After all, it was likely that some people would be killed while on their way to the Hidden Dragon Ind and have their nomination tokens stolen by the demonic beings. No one would know if they mixed in with the crowd.

    ¡°We must push forward and eliminate the source of this demonic technique,¡± Li Yao said. ¡°Otherwise, no matter how many white-bone corpse demons we defeat, they will keeping.¡±

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s charge up together, then!¡± Chen Fan nodded, a ferocious light flickering in his eyes.

 Chapter 592 - Mowing Down Along the Way

    <h4>Chapter 592 - Mowing Down Along the Way</h4>

    The battle was nothing short of terrifying¡ªtruly horrifying.

    Dark clouds nketed the sky, and eerie rain fell, obscuring vision and melting many things beneath it.

    Below the ghost mountain, qi surged like an endless tide, rolling in waves andyers.

    The human martial artists and the demonic beast army had seemingly joined forces to attack the terrifying white-bone corpse demon army. The frantic fight turned heaven and earth dark, the sun and moon lost their light, and the continent sank.

    <i>Boom, boom.</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Deafening explosions erupted like continuous firecrackers, whipping up fierce gales and qi winds.

    More white-bone corpse demons poured down. Though not particrly strong, their sheer numbers created a stalemate with the elite human martial artists and the demonic beast forces.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The mournful howls of the wind echoed like ghostly wails and godlymentations

    The fight between the two armies painted a scene of apocalyptic despair as if the world was ending.

    The heaven crumbled and the earth cracked. The entire Hidden Dragon Ind was trembling, as if heaven and earth would crumble and be destroyed in this battle.

    ¡°Let¡¯s move up!¡± Li Yao urged, his voice filled with urgency. ¡°So many have died here before. If we don¡¯t defeat the demon using the demonic technique, these white-bone corpse demons will keep pouring down. We will end up in a dire position!¡±

    Despite his status as a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, he felt the weight of the situation pressing heavily upon him.

    No wonder the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect swept across the entire Tianwu Continent three thousand years ago, leaving countless dead and plunging people into deep despair.

    Just the remnants of the Underworld Pce, using some dark technique, had managed to summon a massive army of white-bone corpse demons, threatening all life on Hidden Dragon Ind¡ªwhether human martial artists or demonic beasts.

    One could only imagine the terror the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect must have wielded at its peak three thousand years ago!

    It was no wonder the entire Tianwu Continent¡¯s top-tier strength had to be gathered to get rid of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect back then. No single sect could have stood against them alone.

    Though it was said that the Nebulous Divine Pce was the supreme power of that time, the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect was the true dominant force.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go!¡± Chen Fan said with a determined nod, his eyes zing with resolve. The urgency of the situation was clear.

    The remnants of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect weren¡¯t merely trying to intimidate them; they aimed to annihte the next generation of geniuses from the Hong Domain.

    Their goal was to snuff out the future of the Hong Domain itself.

    <i>Hoo, hoo.</i>

    <i>Gu, gu.</i>

    Chen Fan and Li Yao possessed unparalleled strength. Even though Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was only in the five-revolution Golden Core realm, Li Yao did not dare to look down on him at all, as he felt a strong sense of oppression from Chen Fan.

    The sense of oppression Chen Fan exuded was as intense as the power of a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.

    They sliced through the air with incredible speed, the eerie wind behind them whistling like wailing spirits.

    In this ce full of gloomy clouds and white-bone corpse demons, this sensation was even more chilling.

    They charged all the way across. The white-bone corpse demons in their way couldn¡¯t impede them in the slightest, as the two annihted them all.

    Li Yao, a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, had the power to reshape the world with a mere gesture. He could kill a nine-revolution Golden Core realm expert with a simple breath; how could these white-bone corpse demons possibly stop him?

    As for Chen Fan, he hadplete mastery of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, so he could take on a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse. His physical strength allowed him to split mountains, part seas, break continents, and shatter stars. His power matched Li Yao¡¯s.

    Li Yao couldn¡¯t help but marvel at Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength. Despite his respect for Chen Fan, witnessing his true abilities made Li Yao realize he was still underestimating him.

    The white-bone corpse demons charging down the mountain saw Chen Fan and Li Yao rushing up like two sharp knives. At a powerful white-bone corpse demon¡¯smand, terrifying bone arrows formed a volley of arrows, darkening the sky as they rained down on the two

    Among them, many terrifying white-bone corpse demons in the eight and nine-revolution Golden Core realm stormed toward the two.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Chen Fan roared, his aura surged, shaking heaven and earth. Boundless strength rushed out like a long river, crushing everything and washing over the space.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The bone arrows of the white-bone corpse demons were quickly overwhelmed by the gale and waves generated by their immense strength. It was as if a cannonball had been fired into the sea of white-bone corpse demons, drowning them in destruction.

    Faced with this force, the white-bone corpse demons had no chance to resist. They were pulverized into dust, annihted one after another.

    Li Yao thrust his palm out in the air. The primeval qi of heaven and earth instantly went wild and rampaged, forming arge primeval qi hand that covered the sky, smacking down violently.

    With a rumble, the ghost mountain shook. Arge swathe of white-bone corpse demons was smashed to bits.

    Behind them, the group of nine-revolution Golden Core realm experts, including Gongsun Zhong, Xuanyuan Po, Qiu Yuexin, and Wuyazi, weren¡¯t slow to act either. They swept across the army of white-bone corpse demons, following close behind.

    This battle was not just about defeating the white-bone corpse demons; it was also a silentpetition among the younger generation.

    Li Yao had already taken the lead by advancing to the Divine Nascent realm, leaving them in his dust. However, they were determined not tog too far. They fought with all their strength, unwilling to fall too far behind.

    Terrifying furious roars rang out. A white-bone corpse demon, themander, pulled out a bone spear and hurled it toward Chen Fan and Li Yao, wanting to shoot them down.

    This bone spear tore through space with an ear-piercing whistle, breaking through the air and sailing over with the power to kill ordinary nine-revolution Golden Core realm experts.

    In just the blink of an eye, this bone spear came right in front of Chen Fan. A massive golden palm emerged calmly, grabbing the bone spear that had tremendous rotational force.

    The bone spear and the golden palm collided with such intensity that sparks flew and a deafening noise erupted.

    Despite the immense force surrounding the bone spear, it was no match for Chen Fan''s strength. His arm muscles, hardened like steel and iron, flexed as he hurled the spear back with ease.

    ¡°Have it back!¡±

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The space exploded with the impact as the bone spear shot back, elerating even faster and with greater force than before.

    It struck and nailed a peak nine-revolution Golden Core realm white-bone corpse demon, sending it flying, shattering countless ordinary white-bone corpse demons in its path.

 Chapter 593 - Let Me!

    <h4>Chapter 593 - Let Me!</h4>

    The battle against the white-bone corpse demons raged on relentlessly.

    Everyone knew that the upheaval on the ghost mountain was a catastrophe threatening all life on the ind. They fought with desperation, knowing their survival was at stake.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sky crumbled, the earth cracked, and the stars fell. Rumbling noises rang out endlessly.

    As they ascended the ghost mountain, the white-bone corpse demons they encountered grew progressively stronger, slowing down Chen Fan and the others¡¯ advance.

    While no single demon could pose a serious threat to Chen Fan and Li Yao on its own, a swarm of attacks could potentially overwhelm even the strongest.

    Recognizing that Chen Fan and Li Yao were the greatest threats, most of the white-bone corpse demons charged at them fearlessly, sending a rain of bone spears their way.

    Li Yao raised his head and looked ahead. A huge, dark wave of white-bone corpse demons was surging down like an unstoppable tide. He said with a grave expression, ¡°Be careful. We are approaching the core area at the mountaintop. We will likely encounter Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons.¡±

    Despite being a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse himself, Li Yao could sense the terrifying presence of monsters waiting ahead, even through the ghost mountain''s disruptive environment.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression was also somewhat grave as he said, ¡°We have no way to retreat. If we don¡¯t eliminate this threat, none of us will escape Hidden Dragon Ind alive.¡±

    Determined, the group pressed on.

    Li Yao¡¯s aura swept through the area. His Tyrant Fist shook heaven and earth. Not a single white-bone corpse demon could stop his attack. Everywhere the fist passed, a wide path was sted open.

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t doing any worse than Li Yao. He executed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, making his three heads and six arms attack ferociously. The attacks swept through the area like rampaging dragons.

    Qiu Yuexin, Xuanyuan Po, Gongsun Zhong, and the other experts also unleashed all their power¡ªit was a fight for their lives.

    The disaster threatening all life on the ind demanded their utmost effort; failure meant death.

    No one wanted to die!

    Suddenly, the air became thick with the stench of blood. A rain of blood began to fall from the sky as if the heavens themselves were weeping.

    ¡°How could it be raining blood? It¡¯s too scary!¡± cried a martial artist in horror.

    The white-bone corpse demons were already giving them enough of a headache; now, it was raining blood, which only heightened their dread. It was clearly a sign of impending disaster, and fear began to grip everyone.

    The bloody rain made them feel heavier and clung to them, impeding their movement.

    However, the effect was rtive to the individuals.

    For top experts like Chen Fan and Li Yao, the bloody rain had less of an effect on their abilities but added to the gravity of the situation.

    ¡°Continue charging!¡± Li Yao roared. His aura suddenly exploded; the resultant sonic wave dispersed the crimson clouds in the sky.

    The crowd charged forward frantically, the bone army failed miserably to stop them.

    After a grueling battle, Chen Fan¡¯s group ultimately arrived at the core area.

    Suddenly, a voice rang out, ¡°You people are finally here.¡±

    Chen Fan and the others looked over at the ruins only to find Qingxu sitting there cross-legged. On either side of him stood a white-bone corpse demon, each as tall as fifty feet.

    However, these two gigantic corpse demons were motionless. Chen Fan did not feel any aura from them; they just seemed like piles of white bones.

    ¡°It¡¯s you!¡± Chen Fan and Li Yao cried out almost simultaneously.

    Neither of them had expected the perpetrator to be Qingxu, the mysterious Daoist cultivator.

    ¡°You¡¯re a remnant from the Underworld Pce!¡± Li Yao¡¯s eyes zed with fierce, icy fury.

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Qingxu admitted with a cold smile, confirming the usation.

    Everyone had been deceived by Qingxu. Though he appeared to be a Daoist, he was actually affiliated with the Underworld Pce.

    ¡°How dare you!¡± Li Yao shouted, bursting with overwhelming killing intent.

    Qingxu smiled eerily and said, ¡°Is this even daring? The daring thing is what I am about to do. Today, I will wipe out the younger generation of the entire Hong Domain.¡±

    The crowd was enraged by Qingxu¡¯s audacious words. Their anger red, and shouts of fury erupted.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°Kill him!¡±

    Li Yao said coldly, ¡°Wipe us out? Big words for someone without an army!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need an army. I have them,¡± said Qingxu and pped his hands.

    Suddenly, the two fifty-foot-tall white-bone corpse demons unleashed their terrifying auras, creating a storm that shook the heavens. The overwhelming presence of these two demons darkened everyone¡¯s faces.

    These two white bone corpse demons had reached the Divine Nascent realm.

    The sight left everyone pale and filled with dread. They had to face two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons, but they only had Li Yao on their side.

    A sense of despair instantly shrouded the crowd.

    Could Li Yao take on two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons alone?

    Obviously, he couldn¡¯t!

    ¡°How daring is this!¡± Qingxu taunted with a mocking smile, observing Li Yao¡¯s increasingly grim expression.

    Li Yao¡¯s expression was very ugly, an icy light shining in his eyes repeatedly.

    ¡°What do we do now? Two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons... This is beyond terrifying!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to die. Thanks to all the opportunities on the Hidden Dragon Ind, I just became a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert. I can even reach the Divine Nascent realm in the future. I don¡¯t want to die here.¡±

    In an instant, the crowd¡¯s earlier resolve crumbled. The prospect of facing two Divine Nascent realm white bone corpse demons was overwhelming.

    Although Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, and the others were in the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, they knew they stood no chance against genuine Divine Nascent realm opponents, even if they fought together.

    They were all top prodigies from the top forces in various empires, with Divine Nascent realm powerhouses overseeing their respective sects. They understood all too well what it meant to face such formidable enemies.

    The nine-revolution Golden Core realm and the Divine Nascent realm may only be one step apart, but this one step was very difficult to cross.

    Even with their considerable strength, Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, and other top prodigies could not bridge this gap inbat prowess.

    As panic and despair spread through the crowd, Chen Fan stepped forward. ¡°Let me handle this!¡±

    Everyone looked at Chen Fan, stupefied.

    Despite being only at the five-revolution Golden Core realm, hisbat strength wasparable to, and in some cases even surpassed, that of the nine-revolution Golden Core realm experts like Qiu Yuexin and Gongsun Zhong.

    Otherwise, it would be impossible for him to go neck and neck with Li Yao all the way while charging up the ghost mountain.

    This underscored Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength. However, they were now facing two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons. Even though his strength was at the peak of the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, it should have been impossible for him to win when facing a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon, right?

 Chapter 594 - If I Fail, Everyone Would Die!

    <h4>Chapter 594 - If I Fail, Everyone Would Die!</h4>

    ¡°Let me do it!¡±

    The moment Chen Fan¡¯s voice rang out, everyone looked at him, stupefied.

    At a time when fear and despair had taken hold, Chen Fan¡¯s willingness to step forward was remarkable.

    Yet, courage alone wasn¡¯t enough to resolve the situation. It wasn¡¯t that the otherscked bravery; they simplycked the strength.

    Facing a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon, courage without the power to back it up was meaningless.

    ¡°Chen Fan, are you crazy?¡± Xiao Zhen hurriedly said.

    ¡°There are two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons. Li Yao can deal with one of them, but what about the other? If the two of them team up against Li Yao, he won¡¯t stand a chance. The best approach is to have someone else confront the second demon,¡± said Chen Fan.

    The crowd nodded in agreement. As elite martial artists and geniuses, they understood the gravity of the situation. They knew that aside from Li Yao, no one else present was capable of facing a Divine Nascent realm demon alone.

    Facing such a titanic foe was nearly a death sentence, so no one was ready to surrender their lives.

    ¡°We can join hands to deal with one Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon,¡± Xiao Zhen said.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°There¡¯s no point. After all, aside from the two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons, we still have to face countless weaker white-bone corpse demons. Furthermore, someone must step forward to kill that beast. This disaster won¡¯t be calmed unless he dies.¡±

    The crowd fell silent. Everything Chen Fan said was right.

    They had three main problems: the two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons, the countless other weaker corpse demons, and, of course, the mastermind behind it all, Qingxu.

    They were at a severe disadvantage in terms of numbers. If theymitted their eight and nine-revolution Golden Core realm experts to tackle one of the Divine Nascent realm demons, who would handle the rest of the white-bone corpse demons?

    ¡°We also can¡¯t send our weaker members to deal with the Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon.¡± Chen Fan said, ¡°Here, other than me, I don¡¯t think anyone else can do so.¡±

    The crowd nodded.

    Despite their reluctance, they had to acknowledge that most of them were not equipped to face a Divine Nascent realm demon alone. Even the most elite among them would struggle to withstand a single attack.

    Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, and the other top geniuses had to admit that they couldn¡¯t confront a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon alone.

    Li Yao¡¯s expression was grim as he asked, ¡°How confident are you?¡±

    Given the dire situation, the human martial artists were clearly at a significant disadvantage.

    If they only had to fight off one Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon, everything would have worked out well. But now, with two Divine Nascent realm demons on the field and only one Divine Nascent realm powerhouse on their side, they were at a severe disadvantage.

    Even with Li Yao¡¯s extraordinary talent and status as the top genius of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation, facing two opponents of that level would be nearly impossible.

    If Li Yao was to fight one against two, it wouldn¡¯t take long before he was killed by thebined strength of the two white-bone corpse demons, leading to an even greater disaster for the group.

    ¡°I¡¯m about seventy to eighty percent confident,¡± Chen Fan admitted. ¡°It¡¯s not a certainty, and it¡¯s definitely risky. However, if we can eliminate Qingxu quickly, I believe my chances of sess remain high.¡±

    Thanks to the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, he could fight a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, but Chen Fan had never fought one before. That made him uncertain. The true test woulde when he faced one in battle.

    He was not acting impulsively; his decision came after careful consideration.

    Even if he was no match for the Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon, it would be sufficient as long as he could stall until Qingxu was killed.

    Once Qingxu dies, those white-bone corpse demons would no longer be a threat.

    He also wanted to use this opportunity to test whether theplete mastery level of Myriad Elephants Divine Art really gave him the strength to fight a Divine Nascent realm.

    After all, he had not forgotten about the matter of the Golden Hoop Sect intercepting him and trying to kill him.

    ¡°No one can do it aside from me!

    ¡°If even I fail, then everyone will die!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s tone was calm, but his words were filled with heroism that reached the clouds.

    Xiao Zhen still wanted to try dissuading Chen Fan, but thetter had already made up his mind. Xiao Zhen also understood that this was indeed the best decision and also the most reliable choice.

    ¡°Alright, then leave Qingxu that beast to me!¡± An incredibly powerful sword intent erupted from Gongsun Zhong.

    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do it then!¡± Chen Fan stepped forward, a terrifying aura erupting from him, stirring the winds and clouds.

    It was as if the cries of dragon-elephants were emanating from his very being.

    <i>Ang, ang!</i>

    Chen Fan immediately channeled the Myriad Elephants Divine Art to the limit. His qi and blood flowed furiously like the Yangtze River, he grew three inches taller, and his physique became sturdier.

    From a distance, Chen Fan appeared like a heavenly god, exuding unparalleled might, capable of dominating thend, eclipsing the sun and moon, andmanding the stars.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Chen Fan and Li Yao rushed forward almost simultaneously.

    Taking the left and right nks, they each struck at a different Divine Nascent realm white bone-corpse demon with powerful palm strikes that shook the heavens.

    The power of the Divine Nascent realm was immense. They needed to draw the two white-bone corpse demons away from the others, as fighting here would endanger Gongsun Zhong and the rest.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    A halberd light of death shed toward the Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon on the left.

    This Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon was immediately enraged when it saw that a puny five-revolution Golden Core realm martial artist dared to attack it. Death qi surged, spiraling into the sky as the massive creature raised its colossal white bone hand to crush the oing deadly halberd light.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The deadly halberd light that could kill a nine-revolution Golden Core was instantly crushed to pieces in its hand.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    But Chen Fan had already arrived in front of the white-bone corpse demon. He shed violently with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, striking the white-bone corpse demon.

    Sparks flew everywhere in a sh. The white-bone corpse demon let out repeated angry roars from the pain, grabbing at Chen Fan furiously.

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure shed, flitting away, luring this white-bone corpse demon away.

 Chapter 595 - Grappling with a Divine Nascent Realm

    <h4>Chapter 595 - Grappling with a Divine Nascent Realm</h4>

    Chen Fan led the white-bone corpse demon to a mountain forest. As soon as he stopped, the corpse demon wed at him excitedly. Its massive white-bone ws shed through the air, creating explosive bursts, as they flew toward him.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    The air erupted with a turquoise hue from the force of the swipe.

    The corpse demon focused all its Martial Dao energy on this assault, determined to eliminate Chen Fan and avoid any furtherplications.

    A terrifying aura emanated from Chen Fan as a whirlwind swirled around him, his immense strength manifesting as ethereal dragon wisps encircling his form. He was like a heavenly god descending into the mortal world, his might indescribable.

    In response to the w ripping through the air toward him, Chen Fan quickly gathered his strength and charged forward with a fierce shout, unleashing a powerful punch.

    He didn¡¯t use any martial skills; it was just a straightforward punch, yet it showcased the full force of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. An otherworldly space-time appeared behind him, and ancient dragon-elephants charged forth from the depths.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s punch caused the space to shatter instantly. The air trembled violently, sending monstrous waves crashing toward the white bone corpse demon like a stampede of savage beasts.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The terrifying bone w collided violently with Chen Fan¡¯s punch.

    It was as if a meteorite had struck the continent, unleashing a terrifying shockwave that surged outward, sweeping across the heavens and the earth.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The towering ancient trees around them suffered a grim fate. The ripples maderge swathes of trees explode. Even small hills blew up, and the ground was gouged three feet deep.

    Chen Fan was pushed back several steps by the sheer force, a dull difort radiating from his chest.

    His physique had reached an unimaginable level after he had mastered the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, but he still felt as if he was on the verge of falling apart from the sh.

    This Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon was indeed terrifying, its white bones exuding an overwhelming power.

    The corpse qi surrounding it erupted, and its massive form was also pushed back. Its two eyes, made of ghostly fires, stared fixedly at Chen Fan, twitching with disbelief at the situation.

    If the enemy had been an ordinary nine-revolution Golden Core realm expert, the earlier attack would have severely wounded, if not killed them.

    Yet Chen Fan had not only withstood the attack but had also forced the demon back several steps, causing the death qi around it to surge violently.

    It actually did not gain any ground from that attack earlier against a five-revolution Golden Core realm martial artist like Chen Fan.

    The ghostly fires in the white-bone corpse demon¡¯s eye sockets trembled violently. The corpse demon said, ¡°<i>Hoh</i>, brat, I¡¯m very interested in your body. Your bones must be very strong. When I kill youter, I¡¯ll pull out all your bones and add them to my body!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you think you can do that before I crush every one of your bones with my bare hands?¡± Chen Fan''s eyes zed with a cold, fierce light, radiating an overpowering aura.

    From their earlier sh, he got an understanding of the immense strength of this white-bone corpse demon.

    If he hadn¡¯t mastered the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, he might have been killed in that sh.

    Although he had been pushed back a few steps and his qi and blood had been disturbed, he wasn¡¯t hurt at all, boosting his confidence.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan spat out a single word, shaking heaven and earth.

    With a powerful kick, Chen Fanunched himself toward the white-bone corpse demon. Three heads and six arms appeared around him, striking violently, sending out streams of fist force like cannon sts.

    Fighting this white-bone corpse demon was even more difficult than dealing with ordinary first-level Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. Its white bones were incredibly tough, not any inferior whenpared to Chen Fan¡¯s unreasonably powerful physique.

    This demon¡¯s level was clearly approaching that of an iron corpse, with a skeleton as hard as metal, making it incredibly daunting and difficult to handle.

    It was rumored that beyond the iron corpse realm were the bronze corpse, silver corpse, gold corpse, and so on. A gold corpse was a terrifying entity capable of challenging gods and devils.

    Although this white-bone corpse demon had not fully reached the iron corpse level, its white bones were already frighteningly formidable.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan and the white-bone corpse demon abandoned all unnecessary techniques, focusing solely on their relentless exchange of palm strikes and punches. Each hitnded with tremendous force.

    Rings of qi waves swept out continuously in a very terrifying manner.

    Luckily, this white-bone corpse demon wasn¡¯t at the iron corpse level. Chen Fan would have had no chance at all otherwise; both his cultivation and physique would have been at a severe disadvantage and suppressed.

    Even so, this battle was very difficult for Chen Fan.

    Their exchange of blows happened in a sh. Both he and the white-bone corpse demon were iparably powerful and domineering, with each strike aimed to be a decisive blow. There was no room for finesse¡ªjust raw, direct fight.

    A trickle of blood escaped from the corner of his mouth after the fierce sh. His qi and blood shook violently. This was destined to be an incredibly difficult battle.

    A vicious look shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. After a series of shes, he realized that he could indeed fight against Divine Nascent realm experts.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Chen Fan shed down the Purgatory Divine Halberd, cutting through space.

    Streaks of deadly halberd light instantly transformed into an inescapable of heaven and earth, shrouding the white-bone corpse demon to slice and dice it.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The white-bone corpse demon refused to show any signs of weakness. A thick cloud of death qi billowed from it as it reached into the void, seemingly plucking stars from the sky to shatter the deadly halberd lights raining down on it.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    For a time, both sides were locked in an impasse, equally matched against one another.

    ¡°<i>Hoh</i>, brat, I didn¡¯t expect a mere five-revolution Golden Core like you to push me this hard. I really underestimated you!¡± The white-bone corpse demon¡¯s tone carried a hint of anger.

    It was a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon. It could smash countless insignificant characters in the five-revolution Golden Core to death in a single attack, but now, it had suffered humiliation at the hands of Chen Fan.

    Despite being dead for three thousand years, it was still a vengeful spirit of a formidable expert, ustomed to superiority. Chen Fan¡¯s ability to force it back was a significant blow to its pride.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The corpse demon unleashed a powerful palm strike. Its bone ws swept forward, forming a bone prison intended to trap and suppress Chen Fan.

 Chapter 596 - Killing a Divine Nascent Realm

    <h4>Chapter 596 - Killing a Divine Nascent Realm</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As the white bone corpse demon¡¯s palm sted out, a bone prison pressed down toward Chen Fan, suppressing him.

    The ominous bone prison loomed from above, intent on retaining Chen Fan within its grasp

    This was the demon¡¯s terrifying secret technique, and Chen Fan immediately sensed its monstrous power, a deep sense of unease rising in his heart.

    Immediately, he pointed his finger at the descending bone prison.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    A Green Lotus Sword Qi shot out. Heaven and earth became somber at once. The air also became iparably sharp.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Both parties attacked at almost the same time, viciously colliding together.

    The heavens seemed on the brink of destruction, the earth quaked, mountains swayed, and stars shattered.

    The Green Lotus Sword Qi made the bone prison explode, turning into countless bone shards.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The sheer force of the impact sent bothbatants flying backward.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The white bone corpse demon unleashed an earth-shaking roar. Its death qi boiled intensely, indicating the boundless rage it felt. It instantly pounced toward Chen Fan, baring its fangs and brandishing its ws, as if it would not rest until it tore him to shreds.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was simrly iparably cold. He suppressed his qi and blood that were tumbling restlessly, gathered his aura, and also charged toward the white bone corpse demon viciously.

    Both parties were unreasonably powerful and spoke with their physiques, especially the white bone corpse demon. It radiated a cruel, destructive aura as if a universe was being created and annihted in its ghostly eyes.

    Chen Fan remained calm, undeterred even by the earlier injury.

    He attacked again as the Heaven Seizing Furnace appeared at his back. Its magma tumbling and boiling within, the heaven-refining mes burned fiercely.

    ¡°Die!¡± roared Chen Fan. His voice shook the sky. Vast power erupted, and the heaven-refining mes enveloped his arms.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    It was a very terrifying collision.

    One force was the embodiment of extreme ferocity and Yang energy, while the other represented extreme Yin and evil.

    As Chen Fan delivered this punch, it felt as though only this single strike existed in the entire universe, overshadowing everything else.

    Chen Fan harnessed the full strength of the Myriad Elephants with this punch and also infused it with the power of the Heaven Seizing Furnace. The heaven-refining mes surrounded his strike, refining everything in their path.

    <i>C!</i>

    The white-bone corpse demon¡¯s attack was instantly torn apart. A flicker of fear appeared in its ghostly, fire-lit eyes.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    The white bone corpse demon was blown away. The heaven-refining mes ignited the death qi around it, cracking its white bones.

    However, it remained an incredibly powerful Divine Nascent realm entity. Waving its hands, it summoned a torrent of death qi to extinguish the mes.

    The battle continued with neither side willing to relent. In an instant, they were locked in meleebat again, colliding ruthlessly. The universe seemed on the verge of copsing under their bombardment.

    Every strikended with force. Fresh blood sprayed, and white bones shattered. Their attacks met mid-air with intense shes, each collision more explosive than thest.

    The white bone corpse demon allowed Chen Fan to pummel away at its skeleton, but its punches also struck him hard.

    White bone ws swiped ruthlessly at Chen Fan, causing the air to explode everywhere.

    Chen Fan rose into the air, swinging his Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    Numerous deadly halberd lights that signified death tore apart the countless white bone ws that came swiping at him.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Every hit made contact. Both parties were sent flying back once more, their physiques nearly falling apart. Even so, neither side showed any intentions of stopping.

    This was a fight of tenacity.

    For white-bone corpse demons, their skeleton was their strongest weapon. They couldn¡¯t even feel any pain. A few bones breaking was as trivial as losing a few hairs for them.

    Even if they were beheaded, they would be fine as long as the vengeful spirit inside them was fine. It was a kind of evil creature that transcended the realm of living beings.

    So, the corpse demon chased after Chen Fan, utterly ignoring all the injuries piling on its skeleton. On the other hand, Chen Fan became even more domineering and unrestrained.

    As they continued exchanging blows crazily, Chen Fan slowly gained greater control over the power of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. His punches and kicks could blow up a star, and his power converged even more.

    The white-bone corpse demon paid no heed to its injuries, even as its white bones shattered. However, Chen Fan¡¯sbat strength wasn¡¯t something to be ignored.

    Boundless energy ravaged the corpse demon¡¯s skeleton, with explosions ringing out repeatedly.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The corpse demon let out a furious roar to the sky, terrifying death qi bursting from it.

    It seemed to transcend the universe, emerging as a bone demon king beyond the cycle of existence, detached from the five elements, and breaking free from the constraints of heaven and earth.

    A formidable aura swept out in all directions.

    Chen Fan¡¯s relentless assault had pushed the demon to this extreme, inciting its fury.

    Chen Fan responded with a low growl, realizing he couldn¡¯t retreat.

    His aura exploded as if he was trying to conquer the heavens and make all creation submit to him.

    The sh between them felt like a battle of two unparalleled beings transcending heaven and earth.

    Although their power might not have reached an apocalyptic scale, the sheer desperation of their struggle was immense.

    The corpse demon roared with a fierce, deathly rage. A vicious light shed as it swung its fist, executing the secret martial arts of its lineage.

    Chen Fan, undeterred by his grievous injuries, released all his strength withplete mastery. His power flowed smoothly and unrestrained.

    For the first time, he felt so liberated, driven only by the need to unleash the boundless power within him.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The fight between the two was too gruesome. A bone w had pierced Chen Fan¡¯s chest, tearing off arge piece of flesh.

    Yet, the demon was far from unscathed; one of its bone arms was ripped off by Chen Fan¡¯s relentless assault.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Fueled by their fury, bothbatants ignored everything else and shed violently in the air. They streaked across the sky like divine lights, emitting blinding rays. Fresh blood mixed with white bones sttered everywhere.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The white bone corpse demon swung its other w, unleashing a wave of death qi like a copsing neb, pressing down on Chen Fan with invisible, terrifying force. It felt as if the sky itself was copsing and the earth was sinking under the pressure.

    Chen Fan, however, remained undeterred. He unleashed his power with full force, crushing everything in his path and demonstrating the terrifying strength of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    Fresh blood and bone fragments flew through the air. Both sides were so miserable one could not bear to look at them.

    The white-bone corpse demon¡¯s bones were all but shattered from Chen Fan¡¯s relentless bombardment, no bone left unbroken.

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t having a good time, either. He was drenched in blood. Even though his powerful physique wasparable to a Grade-5 treasure, the white bone corpse demon had ripped off his flesh and a lot of his blood.

    Yet, as the battle continued, Chen Fan¡¯s aura grew more fierce and berserk. In contrast, the white-bone corpse demon¡¯s advantage dwindled.

    What began as a one-sided fight gradually turned into an even contest, and now, the demon could no longer maintain its dominance.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± roared the white-bone corpse demon again. An iparably powerful aura erupted thoroughly. It was enraged at the prospect of being defeated by Chen Fan¡ªsuch an oue was uneptable.

    It threw a punch imbued with boundless strength as if aiming to shatter the stars and copse the universe. The attack felt like an entire world was hurtling toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Today, I shall defy the heavens and kill a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse!¡± Chen Fan roared, his aura also boiling and eruptingpletely.

    He retaliated with a punch of his own, summoning the strength of ten thousand ancient dragon-elephants to trample through space-time. The forces collided violently with the white-bone corpse demon¡¯s attack.

    A terrifying sword qi suddenly erupted from Chen Fan and swept out, annihting all demons and ghosts. It surged forward as if to pierce through the heavens.

    This was thebined might of two Green Lotus Sword Qi streaks. Chen Fan was determined to kill the corpse demon.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The terrifying Strength of Myriad Elephants wiped out the white bone corpse demon¡¯s attackpletely, dispersing all of its death qi.

    The terrifying Green Lotus Sword Qi whizzed across, as if ready to destroy heaven and earth. It pierced through the white-bone corpse demon, its devastating power erupting.

    ¡°Ah!¡± The demon let out a scream of agony. The Green Lotus Sword Qi had annihted the vengeful spirit within.

 Chapter 597 - Killing Qingxu

    <h4>Chapter 597 - Killing Qingxu</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With the vengeful spirit dead, the white-bone corpse demon copsed with a loud bang, turning into a pile of broken white bones. As the wind swept through, the bones turned into fine sand, scattering across the ground.

    ¡°<i>Hoo, hoo</i>.¡± Chen Fan panted heavily.

    That was the strongest move in his arsenal. If even that had failed to kill the white-bone corpse demon, it would have been a serious problem.

    Thankfully, the power of thebined Green Lotus Sword Qi did not disappoint him. It obliterated everything in its path.

    Chen Fan took a brief rest, consuming some elixirs to aid in his recovery. His injuries were severe; he was drenched in blood.

    The adrenaline of the fight had masked the pain, but now that it was over, the sting of his wounds became all too real, forcing him to suck in sharp breaths.

    After a short while, Chen Fan stood up, his figure blurring as he quickly took to the skies, flying towards the distance.

    He couldn¡¯t afford to rest for long, as he had no idea what was happening on Li Yao¡¯s side.

    When Chen Fan killed the white-bone corpse demon, Qingxu¡¯s expression suddenly darkened as he fought Gongsun Zhong to a stalemate. He had just sensed that one of the white-bone corpse demons had been destroyed.

    This was rming news.

    <i>How is this possible? That white-bone corpse demon was fighting that five-revolution Golden Core realm brat</i>! Qingxu was greatly shocked in his heart.

    The two Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demons were supposed to be his trump cards.

    He had expected that white-bone corpse demon to quickly kill Chen Fan, a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert. The corpse demon would then join hands with the corpse demon fighting Li Yao. They would together kill the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s prince.

    But now, the situation had flipped entirely. Li Yao was still locked in a fierce battle with his white-bone corpse demon, while the one fighting Chen Fan had been killed.

    This news was simply a bolt from the blue for Qingxu. He hadn¡¯t even considered the possibility.

    How could a five-revolution Golden Core cultivator defeat a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon?

    It defied all logic.

    Even if Chen Fan could fight above his level, the gap between the Divine Nascent realm and the Core Formation realm was as vast as heaven and earth.

    A peak nine-revolution Golden Core expert might barely survive an encounter with a Divine Nascent powerhouse, but to actually defeat one? That was unheard of.

    Yet, Qingxu couldn¡¯t deny the truth. He had clearly sensed the death of the vengeful spirit within the white-bone corpse demon that had been battling Chen Fan. There was no mistaking it.

    ¡°You dare to get distracted while fighting me? sh!¡± An iparably fierce light shone in Gongsun Zhong¡¯s eyes. He shed down fiercely with his sword. The clear and cold sword light instantly filled heaven and earth, about to split Qingxu in half and end this disaster.

    Qingxu immediately came back to his senses. His expression sank, and he thrust his palms out, blocking Gongsun Zhong¡¯s sh. Then, he quickly pulled back, his expression ugly.

    On the other side, Li Yao and the white-bone corpse demon were in a stalemate.

    Li Yao¡¯s physique was not as powerful as Chen Fan¡¯s. He mobilized the primeval qi of heaven and earth to boost the power of his attacks. However, the white-bone corpse demon¡¯s bones were as tough as metal. A quick victory seemed difficult.

    Despite his outwardposure, Li Yao was feeling a growing sense of urgency.

    He needed to kill this white-bone corpse demon as soon as possible. He knew that Chen Fan had drawn away the other demon, but he feared that Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t be able to hold out for long.

    Although he respected Chen Fan''s strength, Li Yao doubted whether Chen Fan could continue stalling the white-bone corpse demon without being overwhelmed.

    If Chen Fan fell, it would spell disaster for him and their entire group.

    With a loud roar, Li Yao unleashed his power, causing the surrounding air to copse under the force.

    The silhouette of an emperor appeared behind him. As he continued throwing out punches, the power of his Tyrant Fist grew increasingly domineering and terrifying.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Li Yao''s punch connected with the white-bone corpse demon, releasing a burst of energy so intense that it seemed capable of shattering a star.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    His punch was too terrifying. It nearly blew off half of the white-bone corpse demon. Yet, the white-bone corpse demon remained unfazed. Its remaining w swiped viciously at Li Yao¡¯s head, aiming to crush it into oblivion.

    With this w, a terrifying force descended as if it would unravel the very fabric of the universe, plunging everything back into primeval chaos.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Li Yao snorted coldly. A cold light shot out from his eyes. A resplendent fist silhouette swept out, rushing toward the white-bone corpse demon.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Li Yao¡¯s devastating punch reverberated through the heavens, shattering the stars and causing vast sections of the sky to copse.

    Amidst the ruins, the human martial artists fought intensely with the endless army of white-bone corpse demons. It was a very tragic battle.

    Suddenly, a sharp whistling sound cut through the chaos. A figure tore through the air at a frightening speed, setting off sonic booms as it streaked across the sky.

    A terrifying light from a deadly halberd descended upon the corpse demons, exploding with immense force. In an instant, countless white-bone corpse demons were obliterated.

    ¡°It¡¯s Chen Fan, my god, Chen Fan has returned! Hmm? There isn¡¯t a white-bone corpse demon behind him?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right! D-did he deal with that Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon?¡±

    ¡°How is that possible!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was stunned.

    How was that possible?

    How could Chen Fan possibly get rid of a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon? Everyone knew the fearsome power of a Divine Nascent realm entity. Such beings were far beyond the reach of any martial artist in the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    Just the idea that he could hold his own against a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse seemed ridiculous enough. So for one to believe that he could actually defeat one seemed impossible.

    Yet, there was no sign of the white-bone corpse demon chasing after him. This meant that the Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon was dead.

    Qingxu¡¯s gaze also fell on Chen Fan. An iparably cold killing intent burst out from his eyes. Chen Fan really got rid of that white-bone corpse demon.

    His carefullyid schemes were now in ruins.

    If he had known this would happen, he would have gotten rid of Chen Fan when he first met him on the sea.

    Chen Fan scanned the surroundings and said calmly, ¡°I¡¯ve gotten rid of that white-bone corpse demon!¡±

    Those words were like a bomb exploding underwater. The crowd blew up into amotion.

    The fact that Chen Fan had killed a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon was astounding and unbelievable.

    His words from before he had left echoed in the crowd¡¯s ears.

    ¡°If I fail, then everyone will die!¡±

    His overwhelming self-confidence made him seem invincible.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cold gazended on Qingxu. He was not worried that Li Yao would fail to deal with his Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon. If he couldn¡¯t even take care of that, he wouldn¡¯t deserve his title: the number one genius of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation.

    ¡°Looks like your ns are ruined!¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    A look of resentment showed in Qingxu¡¯s eyes, and he said, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect all my efforts to be wasted in the end because of you. If I had known this earlier, I would have ughtered you when I first met you. I let a tiger cub grow into a threat, damn it!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s useless even if you regret it. A sinful beast like you deserves to die!¡±

    An overwhelming killing intent erupted from Chen Fan. He charged toward Qingxu.

    Chen Fan had killed a Divine Nascent realm being, so his momentum was unparalleled. Qingxu was only in the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, so he was far from being Chen Fan¡¯s match.

    In just a few moves, Qingxu¡¯s head went flying into the air.

    Simultaneously, Li Yao also sted the white-bone corpse demon to bits with a punch.

 Chapter 598 - Exiting the Island

    <h4>Chapter 598 - Exiting the Ind</h4>

    Qingxu¡¯s death seemed to have drained the white-bone corpse demons of their fighting spirit. The crowd¡¯s beating quickly pushed them back.

    When Li Yao took down another Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon and was about to rush over to assist Chen Fan, he was stunned to see Chen Fan killing Qingxu.

    Li Yao had expected Chen Fan to be struggling against the other white bone corpse demons, not to outpace him in taking it down and then moving on to Qingxu.

    This left him in disbelief.

    Chen Fan killed a Divine Nascent realm corpse demon with only five-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation?

    If word of this got out, few would believe it.

    Yet, Li Yao understood that if Chen Fan hadn¡¯t defeated that white-bone corpse demon, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to show up here and kill Qingxu. He knew all too well that a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon was a formidable opponent.

    ¡°This guy...¡± Aplicated look shed across Li Yao¡¯s eyes.

    Ever since Chen Fan had defeated Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu in a one-on-two battle, Li Yao, as the top genius of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation, had felt the weight of Chen Fan¡¯s presence.

    Gongsun Zhong, Qiu Yuexin, and the other renowned top geniuses had never made him feel such pressure. However, Chen Fan, some unknown guy who had only recently risen to prominence, had managed to exert this significant psychological pressure on him.

    He had felt the pressure liftpletely when he had advanced to the Divine Nascent realm. After all, he was confident that even if Chen Fan reached the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, he would be no match for him.

    But now...

    Chen Fan had just demonstrated that he could kill a Divine Nascent realm expert. This revtion brought back the enormous pressure, and it felt even heavier than before.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    With thebined efforts of the crowd and the two peak experts, Chen Fan and Li Yao, the army of white-bone corpse demons quickly crumbled. They fell one after another, unable to halt the advance of the survivors.

    Soon, the curtain fell on the battle.

    In the end, this huge life-and-death battle concluded with many elite geniuses either dead or injured.

    They had started with over a thousand people, but now only about three to four hundred remained.

    The fight had been incredibly brutal, truly a "genius meat grinder."

    Everyone who came to the ind was among the most outstanding geniuses of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation.

    If not for Qingxu¡¯s dramatic actions, perhaps five to six hundred might have survived. But life didn¡¯t entertain ¡°what ifs.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s over!¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s over, we survived!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The people who survived sat down on the ground one after another, exhausted. They panted heavily for air, a sense of surviving a cmity rising in them.

    If it wasn¡¯t for Li Yao and Chen Fan, everyone would have died due to this sudden turn of events.

    And then there was Chen Fan. A Golden Core realm expert who killed a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon. This decisive action gave him control of the situation and thwarted Qingxu¡¯s n.

    If it wasn¡¯t for Chen Fan, with only Li Yao as the only Divine Nascent realm expert, the disaster would have been much harder to survive, and many of these geniuses might have perished here.

    After surviving the cmity, many people thought of this.

    Although more than half had died, those who remained were among the most exceptional geniuses, each at the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    As long as these people did not die a premature death, they would be the pir of the Hong Domain in the future.

    Additionally, everyone also knew that from now on, Chen Fan¡¯s name would echo throughout the Hong Domain, alongside Li Yao.

    His achievement of killing a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon with only five-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation was nothing short of extraordinary. If this news spread, it would send shockwaves through the entire Hong Domain.

    The crowd looked at Chen Fan and then at Li Yao, specting that Li Yao might be feeling particrly pressured.

    The day after the disaster was resolved, the identity tokens finally reacted.

    Everyone knew that the time was up for the hundred-day trial. They could leave the Hidden Dragon Ind after activating their identity token.

    Everyone¡¯s faces were beaming with joy. This hundred-day trial on the Hidden Dragon Ind had left them feeling exhausted.

    However, some couldn¡¯t bear to leave the ind just yet.

    Despite the losses, everyone had gained tremendous benefits. In just a hundred days, it was simply impossible for them to fully explore the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Although reluctant to leave, they had no choice but to depart.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯re always wee in our Jade Sky Empire,¡± Xiao Zhen said with a heartyugh, not feeling much sadness about the impending separation.

    Martial artists like them were ustomed to such farewells, and meetings could easily be arranged in the future.

    ¡°Alright.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    The trial on Hidden Dragon Ind forged a strong friendship between Chen Fan and Xiao Zhen.

    Li Yao looked at Chen Fan and said with a sharp gaze, ¡°Chen Fan, it won¡¯t be long until the True Martial Academy opens. I look forward to seeing you there!¡±

    He had thought that he would be the center of attention during the trial. Although he was the only one to advance into the Divine Nascent realm, this little bit of limelight he received was not enough to bepared to Chen Fan.

    Li Yao viewed Chen Fan as his greatest rival. Although he ¡°lost¡± this time, the True Martial Academy was the true arena forpetition.

    He was confident that, given Chen Fan¡¯s talents, he would excel in the Ancient Road Trial and secure a ce as a disciple of the True Martial Academy.[1]

    He wouldpete against Chen Fan at the True Martial Academy.

    ¡°True Martial Academy?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, wanting to ask in detail.

    However, the identity token in their possession suddenly shone brightly. A powerful force wrapped around them. Then, the world around them spun, and they appeared outside the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Towering waves surged. Chen Fan appeared outside the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    Looking at the scenery, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°I¡¯m out!¡±

    A hundred days might seem lengthy, but for martial artists like them, it passed in the blink of an eye during intense, secluded cultivation.

    The trial had been immensely rewarding for Chen Fan.

    He had advanced to the five-revolution Golden Core realm, achievedplete mastery of the Myriad Elephants Divine Art, and gainedbat strengthparable to a Divine Nascent realm expert. He also obtained a Martial Dao Will fragment, Green Lotus Sword Scripture, and other treasures like the Dragon Soul Lingzhi.

    This trial had effectively been a rebirth for Chen Fan.

    ¡°True Martial Academy...¡± Chen Fan whispered, etching the words into his memory. His figure blurred as he skimmed across the waves, disappearing into the vast ocean.

    1. Referring to Sacred Road mentioned in 581. This will be the name going forward.?

 Chapter 599 - Famous Across Hong Domain

    <h4>Chapter 599 - Famous Across Hong Domain</h4>

    Not far from the Spring Autumn Sect, a figure streaked across the sky on a beam of light¡ªit was Chen Fan.

    Compared to the time he took to reach Hidden Dragon Ind, Chen Fan returned from the eastern sea to the Spring Autumn Sect in under ten days.

    Back then, he was merely at the ninth level, but now he was a five-revolution Golden Core realm expert withbat strength on par with a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse.

    Chen Fan''s progress in less than three months had been remarkable, with his cultivation andbat prowess improving drastically.

    As Chen Fan swiftly approached the mountain gates of the Spring Autumn Sect, about a dozen figures rushed out to meet him.

    They were all high-level Yuanfu realm core disciples, each exuding a powerful aura.

    Following the heavy losses suffered during the Blood Demon Cave attack, the sect had decided to assign its core disciples to patrol duties to enhance security.

    ¡°Halt!¡± shouted a seventh-level Yuanfu realm core disciple.

    But before any further action could be taken, a ninth-level Yuanfu realm core disciple eximed with excitement, ¡°It¡¯s First Senior Brother Chen Fan. First Senior Brother Chen Fan has returned!¡±

    ¡°It really is First Senior Brother Chen Fan. He¡¯s back!¡±

    ¡°So, the Hidden Dragon Ind trial has ended!¡±

    The other core disciples buzzed with excitement.

    At this point, Chen Fan''s name was renowned across the Great Chu Empire, perhaps even more famous than some Divine Nascent realm powerhouses.

    His dramatic performance at the Grand Sect Conference and his heroic act of turning the tide during the Blood Demon Cave''s attack on the Spring Autumn Sect had made him a living legend. He was a symbol of hope within the sect.

    ¡°Greetings to First Senior Brother Chen Fan!¡± The dozen or so people immediately greeted him loudly.

    ¡°Well done, you guys keep patrolling. Here¡¯s a reward for you!¡± Chen Fan waved his hand, sending a dozen streaks of light toward them. He then sped into the sect.

    ¡°This is... my god, it¡¯s a Jade-Leafed Golden Stalk!¡± eximed that ninth-level Yuanfu realm core disciple, overjoyed.

    This treasure gave him a seventy percent chance of advancing to the Core Formation realm within three months and being promoted to a holy disciple.

    As for the others, they either received Grade-3 or 4 treasures, or precious natural treasures. Everyone quickly put them away.

    The core disciples excitedly discussed among themselves as they put away their treasures.

    ¡°As expected of First Senior Brother Chen Fan. He¡¯s really generous. It looks like he found a lot of treasures on Hidden Dragon Ind.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? He¡¯s handing out Grade-3 and 4 treasures like it¡¯s nothing!¡±

    ¡°I wonder if First Senior Brother Chen Fan has reached the Divine Nascent realm...¡±

    A mountain peak:

    ¡°You¡¯ve returned.¡± Wei Buyu looked at Chen Fan with a joyful expression.

    The most outstanding geniuses of the Hong Domain¡¯s thirty-six nations had gathered on the Hidden Dragon Ind. Although Chen Fan was a top genius of the Great Chu Empire, he could only be considered quasi-first-ratepared to the entire Hong Domain.

    Wei Buyu had worried about potential conflicts between Chen Fan and the other outstanding geniuses.

    Now that Chen Fan had safely returned to the sect, Wei Buyu could finally breathe a sigh of relief.

    ¡°Master,¡± greeted Chen Fan respectfully.

    ¡°How was your harvest?¡± asked Wei Buyu.

    Chen Fan nodded and answered, ¡°It was huge! Although I wasn¡¯t able to advance into the Divine Nascent realm, I have reached the five-revolution Golden Core realm.¡±

    Wei Buyu chuckled and chided, ¡°You really are greedy. Although the Hidden Dragon Ind is a blessednd with plenty of treasures, advancing from the early stage of the ninth level to the Divine Nascent realm in just three months is almost impossible.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded in agreement.

    News of Chen Fan¡¯s return from Hidden Dragon Ind spread rapidly throughout the Spring Autumn Sect. Everyone was buzzing with spection about how much his cultivation level had improved.

    Chen Fan had always been strong, capable of challenging opponents above his level.

    He could kill one or two revolution Golden Core realm experts with just a ninth-level Core Formation realm cultivation. The trial at the Hidden Dragon Ind was bound to have increased his strength.

    As time slowly passed, the events of the Hidden Dragon Ind spread. News about Chen Fan also slowly spread in the Spring Autumn Sect, particrly the astonishing fact that he had killed a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon. This feat left countless people stunned and speechless.

    This wasn¡¯t just a Yuanfu realm or Core Formation realm opponent¡ªit was a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon!

    Chen Fan had defied all logic by killing a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon with five-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation, keeping the situation in control and thwarting Qingxu¡¯s plot. It could be said that he had saved the day once again with his strength alone.

    His achievement was beyond formidable; it was monstrous and nearly inconceivable.

    Yet, this unbelievable feat had indeed urred, witnessed by hundreds of the Hong Domain¡¯s top geniuses, forcing everyone to ept its reality.

    Following the hundred-day trial on Hidden Dragon Ind, Chen Fan¡¯s fame soared.

    Chen Fan and Li Yao were touted as the peerless twin prides of the Hong Domain.

    Meanwhile, the Great Chu Empire and the Spring Autumn Sect also became famous across the Hong Domain due to Chen Fan¡¯s deeds on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    No one had expected that the Great Chu Empire, considered lower-middle ss among the thirty-six nations, would produce such a monster, shocking the people.

    While the Spring Autumn Sect was a well-known giant within the Great Chu Empire, it had previously been insignificant on therger stage of the Hong Domain.

    Across the entire Hong Domain, there were at least eight hundred, if not a thousand, forcesparable to the Spring Autumn Sect. These forces were considered low-tierpared to the colossal entities like the Great Li Imperial Court or the Great Li Sword Mountain.

    In the past trials for the Grand Sect Conference, the geniuses representing the Great Chu Empire were mere bystanders. Without Chen Fan¡¯s extraordinary performance this time, figures like Qi Feifan, Lin Wushang, and Zhantai Liuli would have made little impact.

    Chen Fan¡¯s deeds during the trial at the Hidden Dragon Ind brought iparable shock to everyone, bringing unprecedented recognition to the Great Chu Empire, the Spring Autumn Sect, and Chen Fan himself.

    In the past, Li Yao, Gongsun Zhong, Qiu Yuexin, and the others were the representatives of the younger generation of the Hong Domain; now, it was Chen Fan and Li Yao. Gongsun Zhong, Qiu Yuexin, and the others were relegated to ying second fiddle.

    Chen Fan¡¯s reputation quickly spread beyond the Spring Autumn Sect and the Great Chu Empire. He became a renowned figure throughout the Hong Domain, frequently discussed andpared to notable names like Li Yao and Gongsun Zhong.

    Some evenpiled a list of the top ten younger generation experts in the Hong Domain, with Chen Fan and Li Yao tied for first ce!

 Chapter 600 - True Martial Academy

    <h4>Chapter 600 - True Martial Academy</h4>

    As word of Chen Fan¡¯s achievements spread, he quickly became the pride of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Now, everyone knew that he had defied the heavens and killed a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon while being a mere five-revolution Golden Core realm expert.

    Such extraordinary achievements have been as rare as phoenix feathers or qilin horns since ancient times.

    When Wei Buyu heard about the events on Hidden Dragon Ind, he hurried to Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation peak once more.

    ¡°You rascal, you nearly gave me a heart attack!¡± he eximed.

    When Chen Fan returned, Wei Buyu thought Chen Fan had only obtained some minor opportunities. But now, it was clear that this was far from the truth.

    He had been worried that Chen Fan might get into a conflict with the top geniuses of the Hong Domain. However, Chen Fan¡¯s incredible feats on the Hidden Dragon Ind simply stupefied Wei Buyu, almost scaring the soul out of him.

    Chen Fan had simultaneously faced Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu, two of the top geniuses in the Hong Domain. Not only did he survive, but he even killed them.

    Furthermore, a five-revolution Golden Core had killed a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon. If others hadn¡¯t witnessed it, no one would have believed it, no matter how far the news spread.

    What kind of an existence was a Divine Nascent realm?

    In the Great Chu Empire, they were the stabilizing forces of the top powers and were like gods in countless people¡¯s eyes.

    Despite being only in the five-revolution Golden Core realm, Chen Fan already possessed the heaven-defying strength to kill a Divine Nascent realm expert. How terrifying was that?

    ¡°You¡¯re no longer famous in just the Great Chu Empire. Your name has spread throughout the Hong Domain,¡± Wei Buyu said with a smile, a hint of pride on his face.

    Chen Fan was now famous across the Hong Domain, and he was Chen Fan¡¯s master.

    ¡°I don¡¯t deserve such fame,¡± Chen Fan responded calmly. Then, his eyes lit up with a thought. ¡°Master, I have something I¡¯d like to ask you.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s hear it.¡±

    ¡°Master, do you know of the True Martial Academy?¡±

    ¡°True Martial Academy!¡± Wei Buyu''s eyes gleamed upon hearing the name. ¡°You know about it?¡±

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°Li Yao briefly mentioned it. I wanted to learn more, but I was sent out of the ind before I had the chance.¡±

    ¡°Well, the timing is right; the True Martial Academy should indeed be opening soon. I shall tell you about it, then.¡± Wei Buyu¡¯s expression grew serious as he continued, ¡°As you already know, the Hong Domain¡¯s thirty-six nations might seem huge, but in reality, they¡¯re quite small.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re situated on the eastern continent, and in the central region lies an academy¡ªthe True Martial Academy.

    ¡°I¡¯ve mentioned the nine superpowers of the Tianwu Continent before¡ªthe three ns and six sects. The True Martial Academy is one of those six sects!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered violently.

    Wei Buyu had only told him about the Great Jin Imperial Court, one of the three ns. He had only mentioned the other two ns and six sects, so Chen Fan didn¡¯t know much about them.

    ¡°Master, you told me about the three ns and six sects before, but exactly which overlord ss forces are they?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    As Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level rose, understanding the broader situation had be increasingly important.

    He felt he had now earned the right to learn more about matters he wasn¡¯t qualified to know about before.

    Wei Buyu exined, ¡°The so-called three ns are the Ji n, Wu n, and Yue n, while the six sects are the eastern continent¡¯s True Martial Academy, southern continent¡¯s Fire Reverence Cult, western continent¡¯s Saber Saint Mountain, northern continent¡¯s Battle Saint Pce, and the central continent¡¯s Sun Moon Divine Sect and Sword God Mountain Manor.

    ¡°Among the five continents, the central continent is the core. Not only is it thergest, but it also boasts the greatest overall strength. Aside from the Sun Moon Divine Sect and the Sword God Mountain Manor, the three ns are all located in the central continent.

    ¡°I won¡¯t go into further detail now¡ªyou¡¯ll learn more about them in time. Let me tell you more about the True Martial Academy.

    ¡°It is located in the central region of the eastern continent. All martial artists from the eastern continent can go and register for their examination. It¡¯s the true gathering ce for countless geniuses from the eastern continent, where sessive generations of talents connect and shine through theirpetition.¡±

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t I heard about it in the past?¡± Chen Fan asked, puzzled.

    The True Martial Academy was the undisputed leviathan of the eastern continent.

    Much like the Great Li Imperial Court in the Hong Domain, its name should be well-known. Yet, Chen Fan had never heard of it before, which seemed odd.

    Wei Buyu smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s not strange at all. The eastern continent has 108 domains, and our Hong Domain is quite remote¡ªlike a small vige in the countryside.

    ¡°Not only that, the True Martial Academy only opens once a century to recruit disciples. It¡¯s only normal that you haven¡¯t heard of it.¡±

    ¡°In that case, this hundred-year period is almost up?¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes darted.

    Wei Buyu nodded and said, ¡°<i>Mmm</i>, there¡¯s a little more than a year to go.¡±

    A fierce determination shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes

    The True Martial Academy was the gathering ce for geniuses across the eastern continent¡ªit was where he belonged.

    Seemingly having seen through Chen Fan¡¯s thoughts, Wei Buyu asked, ¡°You wish to go to the True Martial Academy?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and answered, ¡°That¡¯s right, the True Martial Academy is my battlefield. I want to see the level of talent there. I want topete with the eastern continent¡¯s children of heaven!¡±

    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s a good ambition, but entering the True Martial Academy is not easy. The academy will open the eight Ancient Road Trials soon. Anyone who wishes to enter the True Martial Academy has to choose one of the eight Ancient Road Trials. Only those who pass the trial and arrive at the True Martial City are qualified to be a disciple.¡±

    ¡°Ancient Road Trial, huh...¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered with a brilliant light. It sounded very brutal, but it couldn¡¯t sway his determination.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Suddenly, two wind breaking noises rang out as Sect Leader Feng Baiyu and High Elder Yun Tu arrived.

    Chen Fan stood up and saluted, ¡°Greetings to Sect Leader and High Elder.¡±

    ¡°Wonderful, Chen Fan. I really didn¡¯t misjudge you. You will be our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s strongest holy disciple in history!¡± The High Elder¡¯s aged face smiled in full bloom.

    Even he and Feng Baiyu were very shaken when they heard of Chen Fan¡¯s deeds on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

    It could be said that a genius as powerful as Chen Fan had never appeared in the Great Chu Empire before, greatly raising the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s reputation.

    ¡°I don¡¯t deserve such high praise from High Elder,¡± Chen Fan said modestly.

    Feng Baiyu said, ¡°You wish to go to the True Martial Academy? I was thinking of passing down the position of sect leader to you after you advanced to the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°My ambitions don¡¯t lie in bing sect leader.¡±

    ¡°Fine, I won¡¯t force you if you don¡¯t intend on epting the position of sect leader. I want to see how far you can go as well. Since the establishment of our Spring Autumn Sect, we have sent many geniuses to attempt the Ancient Road Trial, but all of them either perished or gave up halfway. I hope you will create history for our Spring Autumn Sect and be the first holy disciple to pass the trial.¡± There was a strong note of anticipation in Feng Baiyu¡¯s voice.

    The True Martial Academy was the holynd of cultivation in the eastern continent. Who would not want to cultivate there?

    It was said that the current Emperor Li was once an errand disciple of the True Martial Academy. After leaving, he was confirmed to have advanced into the Heavenly Star realm.

    Even a mere errand disciple of the True Martial Academy possessed Heavenly Star realm cultivation. One could imagine how monstrous and terrifying the true geniuses in the True Martial Academy were!

 Chapter 601 - Reading Tons of Books

    <h4>Chapter 601 - Reading Tons of Books</h4>

    Although the True Martial Academy was open to the entire eastern continent, gaining admission as a disciple was extremely rare¡ªone in ten thousand applicants would be epted.

    Feng Baiyu and the others had reached the Divine Nascent realm, proving their exceptional talent. Yet, they weren¡¯t qualified to take the Ancient Road Trial. This underscored the difficulty of the trial.

    Ordinary geniuses had little chance of surviving the Ancient Road Trial; attempting it could easily lead to their death.

    The Ancient Road Trial was much more intense than thepetition on Hidden Dragon Ind. It wasn¡¯t just a contest among geniuses from the same domain but apetition across the entire eastern continent.

    The Hong Domain, being a low-ranked domain, was significantly weakerpared to the 108 domains of the eastern continent. In terms of number, strength, and talent, its geniuses were overshadowed by those from more powerful domains.

    Chen Fan knew that this path would be a bloody one, but he was undeterred.

    ¡°There are some journals in the library about the True Martial Academy¡¯s Ancient Road Trial. You can go take a look,¡± Feng Baiyu said.

    ¡°Alright.¡± Chen Fan nodded. Gathering more information would help him avoid unnecessary setbacks, so he weed the advice.

    ¡°Sect Leader, High Elder, there¡¯s one more thing I need to mention. There¡¯s a strong likelihood that the Golden Ring Sect has colluded with the Blood Demon Cave. On my way to the Hidden Dragon Ind, the Golden Ring Sect and the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s experts joined forces to ambush and try to kill me...¡±

    Chen Fan recounted the events to Feng Baiyu and the others. Immediately, iparably terrifying killing intent surged in the eyes of all three of them.

    ¡°I understand, but don¡¯t act in haste. We must investigate this thoroughly before taking any further action. I will consult with the people of the orthodox alliance. Once we confirm the collusion between the Golden Ring Sect and the Blood Demon Cave, that will be the time the Golden Ring Sect meets its end!¡± Feng Baiyu said with a murderous tone.

    The Blood Demon Cave had nearly destroyed the Spring Autumn Sect, so their hatred toward them was deep.

    If the Golden Ring Sect was found to have colluded with the Blood Demon Cave, they would face severe consequences.

    Chen Fan nodded. He understood the importance of a careful investigation. Rushing into action without clear evidence could expose their vulnerabilities and give the enemy leverage.

    Also, he was in no hurry, either. He would use this time to raise his cultivation further and strive to advance to the Divine Nascent realm before the Ancient Road Trial began. This would boost his chances of sess.

    Chen Fan spent a while at the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s library to look up information regarding the True Martial Academy and the Ancient Road Trial. His days were very fulfilling.

    Although Chen Fan had gained a general understanding of the distribution of the forces across the Tianwu Continent from Wei Buyu¡¯s lecture, it was not in detail. He could use this opportunity to understand it in depth.

    He knew little about the Tianwu Continent. Since his cultivation used to be weak, he wasn¡¯t even qualified to know more about it. But when his cultivation rose, it rose at an exponential rate, leaving him no time to learn about it either.

    With Chen Fan¡¯s current identity, he could enter the library freely. He could look up the relevant information, and all kinds of books and knowledge were open to him.

    The books collected by the Spring Autumn Sect over thousands of years had simply filled up the library. They were divided into many categories, and they were numerous.

    Chen Fan was currently holding a parchment. It was written by a Spring Autumn Sect disciple who participated in the True Martial Academy¡¯s Ancient Road Trial and walked out of the Hong Domain in the end but gave up halfway.

    ¡°There are a total of eight roads in the Ancient Trial Road: Qian (Heaven, South), Kun (Earth, North), Zhen (Thunder, Northeast), Kan (Water, West), Gen (Mountain, Northwest), Xun (Wind, Southeast), Li (Fire, East), Dui (Lake, Southeast). The eight trial roads follow every region in the eastern continent. The Hong Domain is situated in the southeast area of the eastern continent, and is closest to the Gen Road...¡± [1]

    The journal helped Chen Fan gain a general understanding of the Ancient Trial Roads.

    The trial required participants to choose one of eight roads, travel through various regions and nations, learn through experience, and ultimately reach True Martial City to pass the trial.

    However, the senior''s ount covered only part of the Ancient Trial Road, as they had abandoned it halfway due to its extreme danger. Thus, little was known about thetter portion of the trial.

    ¡°The Ancient Trial Road is quite simr to the one-month trial given to the participants from the Hong Domain¡¯s Grand Sect Conference to make their way to the Hidden Dragon Ind, but the former is far more treacherous. It¡¯s a true storm of bloodshed where geniuses are likely to fall like rain,¡± Chen Fan mused.

    ¡°However, ording to what is written in the journal, although the Ancient Trial Road is brutal, there are also many opportunities along the way. The ruins and legacies of some sects might appear...¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes gleamed with interest. After setting the journal aside, he continued to read.

    Although he could memorize the information from a single nce, memorization alone did not equate to understanding.

    Chen Fan¡¯s spirit strength instantly spread out, sweeping up all the information in the books.

    As the saying went, to attain wisdom, it wasn¡¯t enough to simply read books; one had to be well-traveled. Reading, too, was a form of cultivation.

    As he read, he transferred all kinds of knowledge into his mind.

    Suddenly, the Martial Dao Will fragment reacted, vibrating with a buzz, seemingly helping Chen Fan digest all this knowledge.

    As Chen Fan swept up more and more knowledge, his state of mind began to faintly undergo a metamorphosis and improve. All this knowledge was constantly expanding Chen Fan¡¯s foundation.

    To his surprise, Chen Fan noticed that his cultivation realm was gradually stabilizing. His understanding of this world was also increasing.

    These improvements had actually begun to affect his cultivation, giving him a vague feeling that it would increase.

    The further Chen Fan ventured into the library and the more knowledge he absorbed, the more his disposition evolved.

    He was like a general that conquered thends in one instant, and a monarch that ruled the world in the next. His aura constantly changed, faintly discernible.

    ¡°So that¡¯s how it is. The way of war actually hides such a secret,¡± Chen Fan mumbled.

    After digesting a military strategy book written by a master tactician, Chen Fan suddenly gained profound insights into the art of deploying troops.

    Even if Chen Fan was conferred a title and had tomand a million-strong army now, he would not flinch in the slightest. He wouldmand them as effortlessly as a grandmaster of the art of war.

    After reading so many military books and understanding the essence within, Chen Fan¡¯s disposition seemed to ascend to a higher level. He was like an immortalmander, whose strength only grew with the number of troops under hismand.

    Chen Fan¡¯s disposition was still changing constantly and was greatly beneficial to him.

    Having broader insights and outlook, some of his understanding of the path of martial arts was also achieved, just likeprehending new things by analogy.

    Chen Fan was simply mesmerized and continued to venture deeper.

    There were some travel notes, journals, scattered jottings, feelings, and other kinds of books. They were covered in a thickyer of dust. No one had touched them for a very long time. Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but feel that the people simply did not know how to use the resources avable to them.

    1. The roads are based on the Bagua or the Eight Trigrams. Check Fuxi¡¯s ¡®Earlier Heaven¡¯ section on Wiki if you¡¯re interested. ?

 Chapter 602 - Attacking the Golden Ring Sect

    <h4>Chapter 602 - Attacking the Golden Ring Sect</h4>

    Chen Fan immersed himself in the sea of books with intense focus, his aura now that of a well-learned man.

    As martial artists advanced in their cultivation, they often turned to books to fill the gaps in their early training.

    Chen Fan''s disposition transformed from that of a general or monarch into the aura of a learned schr, embodying the essence of wisdom and knowledge.

    People who have amassed a lot of knowledge would naturally develop such a disposition, such as a great schr, a Buddhist Zen master, or a Daoist master, radiating the air of someone with profound learning.

    Chen Fan read all kinds of books like a glutton, absorbing knowledge across various fields.

    With the Martial Dao Will fragment filtering out the irrelevant parts and extracting the essence, he processed this information with ease, even making new connections through analogy.

    This process cultivated a well-learned aura around him.

    Chen Fan continued his relentless pursuit of knowledge, navigating the vast library of the Spring Autumn Sect, which contained thousands of books and billions of pages. He immersed himself in the sea of books just like that, corroborating his insights along the way.

    asionally, he woulde across two very different viewpoints. He would pause, sit cross-legged on the floor, and contemte the merits and ws of each perspective.

    Over time, his aura grew to be vast and majestic, like a sea of smoke.

    Through this thoughtful examination and synthesis, his understanding of various martial arts also made unexpected progress.

    In this state of deep focus, Chen Fan naturallyprehended the eighthyer of the Green Lotus Sword Scripture, producing a fourth streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    During this period, Chen Fan never made any effort to study the martial art at all. It emerged organically from his extensive study and newfound insights.

    His cultivation also reached the peak of the five-revolution Golden Core realm. His aura was constantly boiling; it seemed he would step into the six-revolution Golden Core realm at any moment.

    However, Chen Fan seemed to not notice any of this and waspletely immersed in the ocean of knowledge.

    Before he realized it, Chen Fan had swept through the entire library of books.

    When he put down thest book in the library, he realized that it was already thest one.

    ¡°There¡¯s no more.¡± Chen Fan chuckled involuntarily. He came back to his senses, and a strange look appeared on his face.

    He had utterly forgotten the passage of time, so he had no idea how long he had been in the library.

    However, the reason for the strange expression on his face was different. He had advanced to the six-revolution Golden Core realm without even realizing it, and the four streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi had grown thicker, all achieved unconsciously.

    ¡°Interesting.¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly, then walked out of the library.

    Wei Buyu came over shortly after Chen Fan returned to his mountain peak.

    ¡°Master.¡±

    Wei Buyu returned the greeting with a nod and said, ¡°After investigating, we found out that the Golden Ring Sect has been colluding with the Blood Demon Cave for a long time. That exins why our efforts to crack down on the blood demons failed to achieve any results. The Golden Ring Sect must have been tipping them off.¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t very surprised. He asked, ¡°Oh, then when are we attacking the Golden Ring Sect?¡±

    Wei Buyu said, ¡°The attack is nned for the next few days. However, it''s likely that the Golden Ring Sect suspects their exposure and is expecting an assault from us. They may have set up traps in their sect.

    ¡°Currently, the Sect Leader, the High Elder, and the others are discussing, nning to wipe out the Golden Ring Sect and Blood Demon Cave in one fell swoop andpletely snuff out the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s arrogance.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered and said, ¡°The Sect Leader¡¯s side already has a n?¡±

    Wei Buyu nodded and replied, ¡°When the timees, we¡¯ll make a grand show of sending troops to the Golden Ring Sect. This is likely to provoke the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s remnants into attacking our Spring Autumn Sect while we¡¯re upied. We¡¯ll be ready to give these demons a fitting response.¡±

    Chen Fan considered this strategy and, finding no objections, epted it.

    ......

    Golden Ring Sect:

    ¡°What do we do? Chen Fan that little beast has returned safely. I heard some rumors that the Spring Autumn Sect is about to send troops to attack our Golden Ring Sect.¡± The Golden Ring Sect¡¯s Sect Master looked at the twomanders of the Blood Demon Cave, his expression gloomy.

    They had sent out two groups to intercept and kill Chen Fan on his way; in the end, they let him escape.

    Now that Chen Fan had returned safely and reported this matter, word had already spread outside, causing him, the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s sect master, to feel uneasy.

    The tenth blood demonmander was a man with a burly figure. He said, ¡°What are you scared of? It¡¯s perfect. If the Spring Autumn Sect dares toe, we¡¯ll surprise them with a big present. Our eighteenth and neenthmanders perished in that previous battle. We can use this opportunity topletely wipe out the Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    The ninth blood demonmander said, ¡°The tenthmander is right. If the Spring Autumn Sect wants to attack your Golden Ring Sect, Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu will make a move together. With us two around, they will be walking right into a trap. Once they leave their camp, <i>hmph</i>, our blood demon army will immediatelyunch an attack on the Spring Autumn Sect and uproot them.¡±

    The Golden Ring Sect¡¯s sect master said worriedly, ¡°I heard that little beast Chen Fan had killed a Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon on the Hidden Dragon Ind.¡±

    The ninth blood demonmander curled his lips and said, ¡°That little beast is not a threat. The corpse demons created by Qingxu by using the Departed Spirits Summoning Technique and awakening our holy cult¡¯s dead spirits had barely reached the Divine Nascent realm. It¡¯s nothingpared to us veteran Divine Nascent realm experts!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯ll wring his head off if he dares toe!¡± said the tenth blood demonmander savagely.

    ......

    Half a monthter, at the central za of the Spring Autumn Sect, the disciples were fully equipped and brimming with enthusiasm.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. To the Golden Ring Sect, and wipe out those remnants!¡± Feng Baiyu¡¯s robes fluttered in the wind, his voice resounding in all directions.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples¡¯ murderous qi reached the clouds.

    They knew that the Golden Ring Sect had colluded with the Blood Demon Cave and tried to ambush Chen Fan. Such actions were unforgivable.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was nearly annihted by those demonic beings, fueling a deep-seated hatred. The Golden Ring Sect¡¯s alliance with the demons made them a prime target for eradication.

    ¡°Set off!¡± Feng Baiyu shouted, leading the charge toward the Golden Ring Sect.

    The formidable army of martial artists took to the skies with amanding presence. Their approach sent many demonic beasts in the mountain range trembling and wailing in fear.

    Chen Fan followed behind Feng Baiyu and Yun Tu with a sharp gaze.

    Half a dayter, in front of the Golden Ring Sect.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Feng Baiyu thrust his palm out into the air, forming arge hand of primeval qi that flew toward the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s mountain gates, the air exploded everywhere.

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Immediately, horns were blown, and numerous powerful auras erupted from within the Golden Ring Sect.

 Chapter 603 Battling the Tenth Blood Demon Commander

    <h4>Chapter 603 Battling the Tenth Blood Demon Commander</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Spring Autumn Sect army descended in front of the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s mountain gate. Feng Baiyu reached into the air, unleashing his formidable power. An enormous, sky-covering palm materialized and mmed down upon the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s mountain.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    A series of explosions echoed through the air as the space trembled violently.

    The immense power of Feng Baiyu was evident from this attack, far surpassing the strength of the Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon.

    Although they were both at the first level of the Divine Nascent realm, the demon¡¯s strength was merely at the threshold of that realm. In contrast, Feng Baiyu¡¯s power, honed over decades at the same level, was profoundly deep and refined.

    Sharp cries rang out in the Golden Ring Sect.

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    ¡°Enemy attack!¡±

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo.</i>

    Sounds of horn blowing rang out.

    Powerful auras surged from within the Golden Ring Sect as a massive golden palm rose to meet Feng Baiyu¡¯s sky-covering hand, shing dramatically.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The deafening sh of the two attacks shattered the space, sending terrifying qi waves rippling out and toppling the surrounding mountain peaks.

    ¡°Who is it?! Who dares to ambush our Golden Ring Sect!¡± A furious shout rang out. The Golden Ring Sect¡¯s sect master and a group of elders flew out, their gazes cold and sharp.

    ¡°Feng Baiyu, Yun Tu, what is the meaning of this?¡± asked the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s sect master coldly, his gaze iparably sharp.

    Feng Baiyu smiled coldly and replied, ¡°Spare me your act, Li Yu. Your Golden Ring Sect has colluded with the Blood Demon Cave and tried to ambush and kill our Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s holy disciple. Today will be the day your Golden Ring Sect meets its doom!¡±

    The roars of the Spring Autumn Sect crowd shook the heavens, their momentum overwhelming. Murderous qi rose to the sky, stirring the winds and clouds and shaking the very heavens.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Li Yu shouted coldly, ¡°Nonsense! Feng Baiyu, ours is a righteous sect. Do you dare use us falsely? nder, I say! Do you know the sins you¡¯remitting?¡±

    Feng Baiyu sneered and said, ¡°Li Yu, no amount of denial will change the fate of your Golden Ring Sect! <i>Hmph</i>, do you think we¡¯ll believe you if you just deny it? I¡¯ve already confirmed everything, and I have no time for your nonsense. Spring Autumn Sect disciples, hear my order!¡±

    ¡°Here!¡± roared the crowd angrily.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Feng Baiyumanded, charging toward Li Yu.

    ¡°Charge!¡±

    ¡°Kill these human scums!¡±

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s forces rushed out like a swarm of locusts, charging toward the Golden Ring Sect with overwhelming killing intent.

    ¡°Damn it, they¡¯ve gone too far. Hear my order, Golden Ring Sect. Kill these invaders at all costs!¡± Li Yu¡¯s voice was cold, his tone rich with eerie killing intent. His figure blurred as he engaged Feng Baiyu.

    Suddenly, a burst of maniacalughter rang out, and a sea of blood tumbled from the depths of the Golden Ring Sect. The tenth and ninth blood demonmanders came, riding the blood wave.

    ¡°Hahahaha, they came as expected. Perfect, today will be the end of your Spring Autumn Sect!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, demonic filth. You all deserve to die!¡± Yun Tu snorted coldly. His figure shed, rolling boundless primeval qi of heaven and earth. It shrouded the ninth blood demonmander.

    The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s bloodthirsty gaze fell on Chen Fan. He smiled eerily, revealing his white teeth, and said, ¡°You must be Chen Fan. Not bad, not bad at all. Your blood is making me restless. I¡¯ll savor it slowly, don¡¯t worry, it won¡¯t hurt much.¡±

    ¡°Sinful beast,e and ept your death!¡± Chen Fan dismissed the taunts and sprang into action. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he stepped through the void and appeared before the tenth blood demonmander. He shed down, tearing through space.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you abominable brat, you think you¡¯re a match for me just because you killed a white-bone corpse demon? I¡¯ll show you the reality of your situation!¡± The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s rage red as his cultivation erupted in response to Chen Fan¡¯s prompt attack.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    A thunderous roar echoed like a dragon''s roar as the tenth blood demonmander unleashed his full strength. The primeval qi of heaven and earth within a thousand-foot radius converged toward him and transformed into a huge blood-colored hand. It smashed Chen Fan¡¯s deadly halberd light and continued pressing toward him.

    The tenth blood demonmander wasn¡¯t a mere novice in the Divine Nascent realm. Having spent nearly a decade perfecting his skills, he wielded the primeval qi with mastery and precision.

    Chen Fan immediately felt the overwhelming force bearing down on him, confining the surrounding space.

    ¡°Open!¡± Chen Fan shouted. His Myriad Elephants Divine Art erupted, instantly breaking through this restraint, and his strength skyrocketed.

    It was as if god himself was swinging the Purgatory Divine Halberd to destroy the universe.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A mass of primeval qi exploded. The sonic wave reduced the surrounding space into powder. The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s bloody palm disintegrated, vanishing without a trace.

    Holding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan stood proudly in the sky, his long hair fluttering and his clothing ttering. A schrly aura erupted from him,manding the winds and clouds.

    His fierce gaze fell on the tenth blood demonmander, and he said coldly, ¡°Did you think you¡¯re my match just because you stabilized your cultivation in the Divine Nascent realm? How na?ve. Today, I¡¯ll kill a real Divine Nascent realm expert!¡±

    ¡°What arrogance!¡± The tenth blood demonmander was enraged by Chen Fan.

    He was a powerful first-level Divine Nascent realm expert, an existence who stood at the peak of the Great Chu Empire. Chen Fan¡¯s dismissive words made it sound as if he were no more than an ant, easily crushed at Chen Fan''s whim¡ªa deep insult to his pride and power.

    ¡°It seems what happened on the Hidden Dragon Ind has inted your ego, making you lose touch with reality. I¡¯ll help you wake up to reality!¡±

    But before he could finish speaking, Chen Fan made his move. In a blur, he appeared before themander and delivered a powerful punch.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The punch exploded with the force of a copsing sky, causing the heavens to tremble and crack.

    Such immense force was used on a person. Immediately, the tenth blood demonmander¡¯s spine produced cracking noises and he curled up, unable to raise his head.

    Facing a veteran Divine Nascent realm like the tenth blood demonmander, Chen Fan struck out brazenly again.

    ¡°Not good!¡± The tenth blood demonmander instantly felt as if the wind from the punch was a mountain, the fist intent was like a heavenly strike, and the punch was as heavy as the earth. All his primeval qi seemed on the verge of breaking apart.

    He roared, ¡°Mad Lion Blood King Punch!¡±

    With a fierce ng, he unleashed a bloody light that pierced through the air. Stepping forward, a blood-red lion constetion emerged beneath him, its majestic form dominating the space as if forged from fresh blood and radiating a majestic power.

 Chapter 604 - Killing the Tenth Blood Demon Commander

    <h4>Chapter 604 - Killing the Tenth Blood Demon Commander</h4>

    The lion constetion rose to the sky. Although it was made of primeval qi, it was as mighty as the king of gods from the nine heavens, radiating brightly.

    The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s blood-red long hair red like a zing sun in a clear sky, with no clouds in sight.

    His divine fist shattered illusions and aimed directly at the core. The punch erupted, shaking the heavens and the earth, with roars of lions echoing endlessly.

    The power in this punch could open up heaven and earth and create a small world.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s punch was even fiercer!

    Ten thousand ancient dragon-elephants appeared on his fist. They trampled space-time, leaving heaven and earth shaking. A mass of zing holy light lit up thends and the ages, humming loudly.

    A powerful and honest will surged from all sides as Chen Fan struck, shaking heaven and earth. Stars fell like rain, immortals were destroyed one by one, and the sound of ghosts weeping and gods howling filled the air.

    ¡°Myriad Elephants Divine Fist!¡±

    An ancient dragon-elephant appeared behind Chen Fan, miniature and temporal.

    Chen Fan¡¯s punch made contact with the tenth blood demonmander and opened up. Five streams of terrifying force materialized from his fingers, washing away space-time.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The hand destroyed the tenth blood demonmander¡¯s blood-colored light. The force of Chen Fan¡¯s punch overwhelmed him entirely.

    His palm cracked open, blood spilled, and his face went pale as he staggered backward, creating explosive shockwaves with each step. Astonishingly, Chen Fan had injured him with a single move.

    ¡°How is this possible? How are you so powerful!¡± The tenth blood demonmander looked at Chen Fan in disbelief. He could not believe that he had been injured; he felt utterly humiliated.

    He was a first-level Divine Nascent realm expert with over a decade of experience. Even a newbie Divine Nascent realm expert couldn¡¯t harm him.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s incredible feats on Hidden Dragon Ind had caused a stir, he did not take Chen Fan to heart. After all, that white bone corpse demon had just reached the threshold of the Divine Nascent realm; since Chen Fan defeated it, the tenthmander assumed that Chen Fan was about as strong as the white-bone corpse demon.

    After all, no matter how monstrous Chen Fan was, everyone knew that he was only at the five-revolution Golden Core realm. That ced a great limitation on him.

    But now, after just a few exchanges, Chen Fan had managed to wound him, making it seem like a dream.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, no need to question reality. There will be no ce for you in heaven or earth after today. Meet your end!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly. He strode forth imposingly, crossing the sky with a powerful aura. A terrifying oppressive force descended on the tenth blood demonmander.

    If it were half a year ago, before Chen Fan had absorbed an entire library, he would have had difficulty winning against a veteran Divine Nascent realm expert.

    However, after absorbing all the knowledge, his insight into the path of martial arts had risen by a level. He now had a whole new understanding of all kinds of martial arts, not to mention that he had advanced to the six-revolution Golden Core realm.

    Chen Fan had clearly advanced a tierpared to six months ago.

    The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s palm had cracked open, so he pulled back repeatedly. His eyes burned with fury as he struggled to believe what had just happened.

    ¡°It seems I underestimated you. I¡¯ll show you the true difference between us!

    The tenth blood demonmander was determined to kill Chen Fan in one attack to wash away the humiliation he had just suffered.

    He had earlier boasted about making Chen Fan see reality; unexpectedly, reality turned around and smacked him in the face. He couldn¡¯t ept this blow to his pride.

    <i>Crackle.</i>

    A massive aura exploded from him, drawing the primeval qi of heaven and earth into a vast funnel centered on themander.

    ¡°Blood-Colored Mad Lion, Roar of Despair!¡±

    <i>Roar!</i>

    The tenth blood demonmander opened his mouth wide, unleashing a sonic wave that resonated through space.

    Behind him, a massive crimson lion manifested, and he used its strongest attack: its roar.

    With this roar, the surrounding space crumbled as if the apocalypse was upon them, making all beasts submit and plunging people into despair.

    <i>Buzz, buzz!</i>

    The destructive sound wave was like a huge army. Divine generals and immortals rushed toward Chen Fan.

    Themander¡¯s face twisted with determination as heunched his most desperate attack.

    ¡°Extinguish!¡±

    Just as that destructive sonic wave was about to reach Chen Fan, a green lotus suddenly blossomed in front of him. It transformed into a streak of sword qi that shocked heaven and earth, shing out.

    <i>C!</i>

    A sound, simr to some cloth getting ripped, rang in the space as the Green Lotus Sword Qi tore the space ahead apart. Since space itself was the medium for the sonic wave, its destruction naturally caused the wave to dissipate.

    ¡°What!¡±

    The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets.

    He had unleashed his ultimate move, Roar of Despair, which could heavily injure even a Divine Nascent realm expert at his level, making it nearly impossible to dodge.

    He had once relied on this move to heavily injure a Divine Nascent realm expert and then kill them. But now, it proved utterly useless against Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan shook his head, a mocking smile on his face. ¡°Is this your most powerful move? How disappointing! I expected something far stronger after all that roaring, but it¡¯s nothing but fluff. Let me end this now!¡±

    His Green Lotus Sword Scripture had already reached the eighthyer, giving him four streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi. This wasn''t just an extra streak of sword qi¡ªeach newyer doubled the power of the Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    Otherwise, Chen Fan wouldn''t have been able to destroy the tenth blood demonmander¡¯s Roar of Despair so easily.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Another streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi blossomed. The entire space instantly became iparably deste. All creations in heaven and earth turned into sword qi, flying toward the tenth blood demonmander, cutting through space-time.

    The seas roared and mountains crumbled. A terrifying force revealed itself.

    The tenth blood demonmander¡¯s expression changed drastically. He hurriedly channeled his strength, hoping to counterattack.

    However, the Green Lotus Sword Qi made quick work of all his counters.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable scream erupted from the tenth blood demonmander as his arm was severed, flying through the air.

    Chen Fan stepped forward mercilessly, his footwork like an ancient divine whip,shing out at the tenth blood demonmander.

    Immediately, the demonmander¡¯s protective true primeval exploded.

    Chen Fan¡¯s kick, augmented by the Strength of Myriad Elephants, was incredibly terrifying¡ªit could easily smash a mountain apart.

    ¡°It¡¯s time to go to hell!¡± A chilling voice whispered in themander¡¯s ear as he flew backward, causing his hair to stand on end.

    Chen Fan was fast like lightning as he rushed toward him. Any attempt to resist seemed childish and futile before him.

    With a swing of his arm, a deadly halberd light shone, shing across the tenth blood demonmander¡¯s neck.

    Immediately afterward, a big head flew into the air.

    However, even though his head was cut off, the tenth blood demonmander still wasn¡¯t dead. His divine nascent took control of his head to fly away, but he simply did not have a chance. The Purgatory Divine Halberd pierced through the head, and a terrifying force erupted, destroying the tenth blood demonmander¡¯s divine nascent.

    The tenth blood demonmander had perished!

 Chapter 605 - Golden Ring Sect Eradicated

    <h4>Chapter 605 - Golden Ring Sect Eradicated</h4>

    ¡°Damn it, how could this be? Why did this happen?¡±

    The ninth blood demonmander, fighting Yun Tu, felt a surge of shock and anger when Chen Fan killed the tenth blood demonmander.

    He hadn¡¯t expected the tenth blood demonmander to meet such an end.

    Li Yu, the Sect Master of the Golden Ring Sect, was also stunned while fighting against Feng Baiyu.

    Too fast!

    The tenth blood demonmander fell in battle too quickly.

    The disciples of the Golden Ring Sect were on the verge of fainting, their mouths agape in disbelief. Chen Fan had killed a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse in no time at all.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s deeds on the Hidden Dragon Ind had already spread throughout the Hong Domain, many still found it hard to believe without witnessing it firsthand.

    Now that Chen Fan had killed someone even stronger in front of everyone, the shock made some forget they were in the middle of a battle.

    ¡°First Senior Brother Chen Fan is invincible!¡±

    ¡°Spring Autumn Sect is invincible!¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples erupted in excitement at the sight. Chen Fan really possessed the heaven-defying power to kill a Divine Nascent realm expert!

    <i>Swish!</i>

    After killing the tenth blood demonmander, Chen Fan¡¯s figure blurred as he rushed toward the ninth blood demonmander.

    The ninth blood demonmander¡¯s irises shrunk violently, and his expression became iparably grave.

    His cultivation level was on par with Yun Tu¡¯s, both being around the middle stage of the first level of the Divine Nascent realm. It would be difficult for their fight to end quickly.

    They had nned to get rid of Chen Fan quickly with the help of the tenth blood demonmander. The twomanders would then join forces to deal with Yun Tu.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan came charging over like a heavenly god, his momentum overwhelming. The Purgatory Divine Halberd glowed with deadly light as it shed through the air, shattering space and causing the air currents to spiral backward.

    The ninth blood demonmander raised his palm and quickly formed a blood-colored shield.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s halberd struck the shield, making it shatter and copse instantly.

    ¡°You abominable little bastard, foiling our holy cult¡¯s grand ns time and again. I swear I¡¯ll kill you today!¡± The ninth blood demonmander stared at Chen Fan with bloodshot eyes, his gaze as icy as a venomous snake.

    ¡°Kill me, with just you?¡±

    Chen Fan, wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, exuded an aura of invincibility that swept in all directions. He stood proudly like a war god, fearlessly challenging the heavens and the earth.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡±

    Before his voice fell, Chen Fan¡¯s Purgatory Divine Halberd swept out, crushing primordial chaos. The deadly halberd light immediately destroyed space-time, wanting to kill the ninth blood demonmander and eliminate all future threats.

    For Chen Fan now, different weapons like sabers, spears, poles, or swords felt equally manageable.

    After spending half a year reading the sea of books stored in the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s library, he had reached an unprecedented level in both his state of mind and his understanding of martial arts. His movements now carried a profound Dao intent.

    The halberd light swept across, vaporizing and slicing through the air as it sped toward the ninth blood demonmander.

    ¡°You¡¯re asking to die!¡± The ninth blood demonmander was furious, his anger reaching the sky. He channeled his strength and sent out a palm strike violently. A reddish light shone, emittingyers of powerful energy fluctuation.

    ¡°Blood Hand Moves Mountain!¡±

    To kill Chen Fan, the ninth blood demonmander used his ultimate killing move at once.

    He harnessed the primeval qi of heaven and earth, forming it into a massive mountain of primeval qi, which he struck down forcefully with hisrge blood-colored hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space shook violently. The mountain of primeval qi was like a real ancient divine mountain, crushing the space as it descended.

    Before it arrived, a terrifying invisible force had already descended, making him feel as if he was about to be suppressed under the mountain for five hundred years.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression tightened under the immense pressure. With a roar, his aura surged fiercely. He grabbed the air with his left hand, conjuring a Heaven Piercing Spear andunching it toward the descending mountain of primeval qi.

    Although the tenth and ninth blood demonmanders were only separated by a minor realm difference¡ªearly-stage versus middle-stage¡ªthe disparity in their power was immense. If Chen Fan had to take on the ninth blood demonmander alone, he would not be a match at all and would be passively taking a beating.

    <i>C!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear, rotating rapidly, cut through the space with a sharp whistle. It collided fiercely with the descending mountain of primeval qi.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    However, the Heaven Piercing Spear, which had produced ster results thus far, finally met its match. It instantly cracked and broke apart, while the mountain of primeval qi continued pressing down toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Left without a choice, Chen Fan released the Green Lotus Sword Qi once more. The sword qi shot to the sky and destroyed the mountain of primeval qi with a bang.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan and Yun Tu attacked the ninth blood demonmander from the left and right simultaneously.

    They poured all their strength into the assault, overwhelming the ninth blood demonmander, who could no longer hold his ground.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level was only in the six-revolution Golden Core realm, his ability to kill the tenth blood demonmander proved he was no weakling.

    The ninth blood demonmander could only fight Yun Tu to a draw. Now, with another powerful fighter, Chen Fan, joining in, he quickly slipped into a disadvantage. He roared out repeatedly, but it was useless.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    With a final, miserable scream and a stter of fresh blood, the ninth blood demonmander fell, in by thebined efforts of Chen Fan and Yun Tu.

    Li Yu waspletely flustered.

    Now that the tenth and ninth blood demonmanders had fallen in session, Chen Fan and Yun Tu turned their attention to him. Fighting one against three, he simply had no chance of winning.

    ¡°Damn it, Feng Baiyu, you probably still have no idea, but the Blood Demon Cave has sent experts to attack your nest. If you bring your people back to the Spring Autumn Sect right now, you can still make it. Otherwise, even if you wipe out my Golden Ring Sect, the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s army will massacre your sect!¡±

    Li Yu was truly scared. Having struggled to reach the Divine Nascent realm, he didn¡¯t want to die like this.

    Feng Baiyu smiled coldly and replied, ¡°Did you think I wouldn¡¯t know that? I don¡¯t need you to tell me. I¡¯m afraid those demonic beings sent to attack the Spring Autumn Sect are probably already dead!¡±

    Li Yu¡¯splexion instantly turned ghastly white.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Die for me!¡±

    Chen Fan and Yun Tu arrived, radiating killing intent that shook the heavens and earth. Together with Feng Baiyu, theyunched attacks at Li Yu simultaneously.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Li Yu screamed miserably. Half of his body was broken apart, and he immediately had to flee.

    However, the three would not give him such an opportunity. They unleashed a series of devastating attacks, relentlessly pursuing him.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Shortly afterward, Li Yu and his divine nascent were annihted.

    Following Li Yu and the two blood demonmanders¡¯ deaths, the annihtion of the Golden Ring Sect was upheld.

 Chapter 606 - Embarking on a Long Journey

    <h4>Chapter 606 - Embarking on a Long Journey</h4>

    The destruction of the Golden Ring Sect shook the entire Great Chu Empire.

    When news broke that the Golden Ring Sect had been colluding with the Blood Demon Cave, the people of the empire apuded their downfall, praising the Spring Autumn Sect for their righteous action.

    Had the Golden Ring Sect remained hidden within the orthodox alliance, they could have caused some kind of trouble in the future.

    By exposing and eliminating this hidden threat, the Spring Autumn Sect had removed a dangerous tumor from within the ranks of the orthodox forces.

    When the Spring Autumn Sect attacked the Golden Ring Sect, the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s army had indeed ambushed the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s base camp. However, the sect had anticipated this.

    When the enemy forces attacked, several Divine Nascent realm powerhouses, who had been lying in wait, revealed themselves. The demonic beings walked right into the trap, and two of their blood demonmanders were in.

    After this battle, the Blood Demon Cave lost a total of five Divine Nascent realm powerhouses, including the Golden Ring Sect¡¯s Sect Master Li Yu. These heavy casualties severely weakened them.

    When the orthodox alliance had first swept through the Great Chu Empire to hunt down the blood demons, the Blood Demon Cave lost many of their Divine Nascent realmmanders.

    Now, they had lost another five. The Blood Demon Cave did not have manymander-level experts left.

    After this, the Blood Demon Cave no longer could stir up a storm.

    What shocked the people the most was that during the battle, Chen Fan had killed the tenth blood demonmander, a veteran Divine Nascent realm, alone. He had utterly overwhelmed the demon.

    While the events on Hidden Dragon Ind had been impressive, many had found them hard to believe. But after this battle, Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious reputation was thoroughly established.

    He had proven his heaven-defying ability to defeat a Divine Nascent realm expert¡ªnot on some distant ind, but within the borders of the Great Chu Empire and in full view of countless witnesses.

    The spotlight on Chen Fan grew so intense it could almost be felt.

    ......

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged in a room. He opened his eyes, a light shing across them.

    ¡°Hegemonic Golden Body...¡±

    After eradicating the Golden Ring Sect, they had seized its treasures. Chen Fan inadvertently found a body cultivation technique in the sect¡¯s Scripture Depository.

    The Hegemonic Body Mantra was simr to the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. However, when he had seen the technique, the small golden person in Chen Fan¡¯s be transmitted some information to him. It was the improved version of the Hegemonic Body Mantra, named the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    When fully mastered, the Hegemonic Golden Body would grant the power to split gods and devils with a single palm, rendering one¡¯s flesh indestructible.

    After all, gold is said tost forever.

    However, after ten days of intense effort, Chen Fan had only scratched the surface of the Hegemonic Golden Body. This proved that its intricacies were on a higher level than even the Green Lotus Sword Scripture.

    At present, he could be said to be a well-read schr. By drawing analogies andprehending new concepts, his understanding of martial arts deepened significantly

    Yet, half a month of effort brought him little understanding of the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    Days turned into weeks, and time passed swiftly.

    Three monthster, news spread throughout the Hong Domain and reached the Great Chu Empire: the True Martial Academy would open the Ancient Trial Roads in six months.

    Everyone from the eastern continent could undertake the trials. Sess would mean entry to the True Martial Academy for further cultivation.

    Many in the Great Chu Empire had never heard of the True Martial Academy, but the announcement created a huge stir once it became known.

    ¡°The Ancient Road Trial will open in half a year, huh...¡±

    The news also piqued Chen Fan¡¯s interest.

    He knew that he would have to leave the Great Chu Empire in half a year and step onto the bloody Ancient Trial Road andpete with the geniuses from all domains and empires across the eastern continent. It would be even more brutal and bloody than the expedition to the Hidden Dragon Ind. Nevertheless, he was not afraid.

    Martial artists must possess apetitive spirit to challenge heaven and earth.

    Taking advantage of this time, Chen Fan visited the imperial city to spend time with his parents, knowing he might not return for a long while.

    As a result, time flew by like a white steed racing through the ins.

    The half-year period went by in a sh, and Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level also advanced into the seven-revolution Golden Core realm.

    After bidding farewell to the sect and his parents, Chen Fan embarked on the journey toward the True Martial Academy.

    All martial artists had to walk on one of the eight Ancient Trial Roads to enter the True Martial Academy, tempering themselves on the way. They had to reach True Martial City, where the academy was located, within a year to be considered disciples.

    Half a monthter, Chen Fan arrived in Shunan Prefecture, a city under the Spring Sea Domain''s Great Ming Empire, which bordered the Hong Domain.

    The Spring Sea Domain was ranked in the middle among the eastern continent''s 108 domains, boasting at least ten Heavenly Star realm experts. Its overall strength far surpassed that of the Hong Domain.

    Therefore, their martial artists often felt a sense of superiority when encountering those from the Hong Domain.

    Shunan Restaurant, thergest and most luxurious establishment in Shunan Prefecture, was bustling with customers. It was also the ce where information traveled the fastest.

    ¡°Another hundred years have passed. The True Martial Academy is about to open its doors to recruit new disciples.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Our prefecture happens to be a crucial passage for those from the Hong Domain on their way to the True Martial Academy. Hehe, whenever the academy is about to open its doors, those from the Hong Domaine running, like ants looking for food.¡±

    ¡°<i>Tch</i>, their so-called geniuses are nothing but trash. They juste here for a good show. Entering the True Martial Academy is nothing more than a fool¡¯s dream for them! The Hong Domain simply can¡¯tpare to our Domain when ites to producing talent.¡±

    ¡°I heard the strongest person there is the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s Emperor Li, but get this. He just recently became a Heavenly Star realm expert. Hehe, let alone the top forces in our Spring Sea Domain, just our Great Ming Empire¡¯s Emperor Ming has been in the Heavenly Star realm for over a century. He¡¯s probably in the second-level Heavenly Star realm by now. Our national strength could crush the Hong Domain.¡±

    ¡°Well said! I heard that the Hong Domain recentlypiled a list of the top ten younger generation experts. Guess who was ranked first? That Emperor Li¡¯s son, Li Yao. I nearlyughed myself to death when I heard that he just entered the Divine Nascent realm. That''s their number one genius, haha! He wouldn¡¯t even make it to the bottom of the rankings here."

    Several youths dressed in luxurious clothing were talking loudly in the restaurant, disparaging the martial artists of the Hong Domain.

    ¡°Weak domains like the Hong Domain are simply not worth looking at. Those so-called geniuses will only be heading to their deaths if they participated in the Ancient Trial Road.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It will be fine for those so-called geniuses from the Hong Domain to fight inside their nest, but the Ancient Trial Road is apetition between the real outstanding talents. Being in the Divine Nascent realm is simply the threshold.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, this time, our Shunan Prefecture¡¯s killing star Xiong Lang will also embark on the road to the True Martial Academy. <i>Heh heh</i>, many martial artists havee from the Hong Domain, and he loves killing people. If one of them provokes him, we might get to see a real massacre. Hahahaha, the people from the Hong Domain are just walking into their own graves. They might as well just end their journey here.¡±

    ¡°You people are too arrogant!¡±

    Suddenly, someone stood up indignantly. From their clothing, it was clear they were martial artists from the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain.

    ¡°Your Great Ming Empire is indeed very strong, but did you really think our Hong Domain¡¯s thirty-six nations are all weakmbs? Just because he¡¯s a genius from a provincial area doesn¡¯t mean he can single-handedly stop all the experts from our domain. That¡¯s delusional!"

 Chapter 607 - Restaurant Troubles

    <h4>Chapter 607 - Restaurant Troubles</h4>

    ¡°With just you people? I haven¡¯t heard of a single expert from the Hong Domain¡¯s thirty-six nations worth showing off!¡±

    One of the youths shot up into the air andunched a palm strike at the Hong Domain martial artist who had spoken.

    That Hong Domain martial artist couldn¡¯t even react in time. Although he had recently reached the five-revolution Golden Core realm, which was impressive, it was insufficientpared to this eight-revolution Golden Core realm youth.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The youth¡¯s ruthless strike sent the Hong Domain martial artist flying. The attack was lethal from the start; it severed the martial artist¡¯s heart arteries, killing him instantly.

    ¡°Nothing but trash. Just a frog in a well, and he dares to speak arrogantly in front of me? Look around; do you think you¡¯re still in the Hong Domain?¡± the youth sneered.

    ¡°Wang Heng, you¡¯re growing stronger every day. Since that¡¯s the case, show these Hong Domain martial artists their ce. Beat into them the difference between heaven and earth!¡± someone in the group urged, almost eager for chaos.

    ¡°You people are going too far!¡± A voice scolded from a corner.

    Chen Fan turned to see a group of Hong Domain martial artists. The leader was a tall, voluptuous woman in a red dress, her face filled with anger as she looked at Qiu Bao and the others.

    A handsome youth beside her, frowning, pulled at her sleeve and said, ¡°Don¡¯t act rashly, Hong Ling!¡±

    Hong Ling ignored his warning. Turning to face the youth, she raised her voice and said, ¡°Zhou Qing, those people are too arrogant. They¡¯repletely disregarding us Hong Domain martial artists. How can you stay calm after they insult us like this?¡±

    The youth, Zhou Qing, felt very helpless.

    So what if he was angry?

    They could be considered outstanding figures among the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation, but they had no advantage against the youths from Shunan Prefecture.

    Wang Heng¡¯s gaze shifted to Hong Ling, a lustful glint in his eyes. ¡°Oh, she¡¯s quite the beauty. Very well. Girl,e over and have a few drinks with us. If you¡¯re good, we might overlook your earlier arrogance. If not, <i>hmph, hmph</i>...¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Hong Ling, furious,unched a palm strike aimed at Wang Heng¡¯s waist.

    Immediately, a thin red silk rolled out like an agile snake, slicing through the air with powerful momentum.

    ¡°What a fiery chick. Since you refuse, don¡¯t me me for using force!¡± Wang Heng chuckled coldly. He leaped up like a roc spreading its wings, his palms fluttering in rapid session. In an instant, the space was full of palm silhouettes.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    A series of explosions erupted, with qi sting in all directions.

    Although hot-tempered, Hong Ling wasn¡¯t weak either. She was also in the eight-revolution Golden Core realm. She twisted, and the red silk moved like an extension of her arm, producing whipping noises.

    ¡°Girl, how dare you act insolent here. Fine, I happen to need a maid to warm my bed. You will do!¡±

    However, Wang Heng was a notch stronger. He deftly maneuvered around the red silk and appeared right in front of Hong Ling, reaching out with his palms toward her chest, a wicked grin on his face.

    Seeing Wang Heng act so shamelessly, a sh of panic crossed Hong Ling¡¯s eyes. She let out a cry and thrust her palm at him.

    Wang Heng chuckled, ignoring her attack and countering with his iron palms.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Their palm forces instantly erupted. Hong Ling let out a low groan and staggered backward repeatedly, her charming face slightly paled.

    Wang Heng sniffed his hand with a look of intoxication. ¡°<i>Tsk, tsk</i>. The sweet scent of a maiden, haha. Excellent, I¡¯m taking you in as my bed-warming maid for sure!¡±

    ¡°You...¡± Hong Ling trembled in anger.

    ¡°This brother, you¡¯ve crossed the line!¡± Zhou Qing¡¯s eyes shed with anger. He didn¡¯t want conflict, but he was not afraid of it.

    ¡°Who do you think you are? Move aside, you have no ce to speak here!¡± Wang Heng rebuked loudly, disregarding Zhou Qing.

    Zhou Qing¡¯s anger boiled over. ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    He disappeared and reappeared in front of Wang Heng instantly and threw out a punch, producing a roar in space.

    ¡°Nine-revolution Golden Core!¡± Wang Heng¡¯s expression darkened when he felt the aura emanating from Zhou Qing.

    A calm voice interrupted, ¡°Wang Heng, get out of the way!¡±

    A figure materialized in front of Wang Heng and intercepted Zhou Qing¡¯s punch with a palm strike.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The air exploded as the palm and punch connected, pushing both parties back by several steps.

    ¡°How dare you make a move against my, Qiu Bao¡¯s, brother!¡±

    The youth who intervened wore ck and exuded a fierce and sinister aura.

    Zhou Qing looked at Qiu Bao with a grave expression and said coldly, ¡°He brought this on himself by running his mouth.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, it¡¯s her luck that she caught Wang Heng¡¯s eye!¡± Qiu Bao said coldly.

    A cold and fierce look shed across Zhou Qing¡¯s gaze. He said, ¡°I¡¯m not here to argue. Since you look down on us Hong Domain martial artists, why don¡¯t you face me?¡±

    ¡°Fight you?¡± Qiu Bao¡¯s lips curled into a chilling grin, revealing rows of white teeth.

    Suddenly, he kicked off the ground, shooting forth and leaving behind an afterimage. Simultaneously, a saber light appeared in his hand, shing toward Zhou Qing in a sh.

    Seeing Qiu Bao striking out decisively, Zhou Qing did not show the slightest hint of panic.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡±

    He drew a sword from his hand, infusing it with his true primeval energy and shing horizontally. The sword light formed a shining wave that surged forward.

    ¡°Shatter.¡± Qiu Bao¡¯s cold saber light instantly descended, sting this sword light wave to bits.

    ¡°sh!¡± Zhou Qing¡¯s gaze darkened and sent out another attack. The sword light shed and tore apart Qiu Bao¡¯s saber light, continuing toward him.

    Saber qi and sword qi collided fiercely in space, producing terrifying rays of light that destroyed the surrounding furniture. Some nearby customers were caught in the chaos and fled in terror, their screams echoing through the scene.

    Qiu Bao unleashed a massive wave of vicious qi with his saber, cutting through the air toward Zhou Qing with blinding speed.

    Zhou Qing hurriedly defended himself by sending out more sword lights, shattering the huge wave. Cold sweat began to bead on his forehead.

    Qiu Bao wasn¡¯t any weaker than him. He was just one of Shunan Prefecture¡¯s experts and was already this difficult to deal with.

    If such exceptional talents were emerging from this mere prefecture, the top geniuses of the Great Ming Empire or the Spring Sea Domain must be even more formidable. It was no wonder these people looked down on Hong Domain martial artists.

 Chapter 608 - Making a Move

    <h4>Chapter 608 - Making a Move</h4>

    ¡°Who are they? One of them seems to be a Hong Domain martial artist. Why are they fighting?¡±

    ¡°This isn¡¯t the first time. Fights like this will break out everywhere every time the True Martial Academy opens.¡±

    ¡°The other person seems to be Qiu Bao. He¡¯s a rare genius of our Shunan Prefecture. His older brother, Qiu Lang, is one of the three prodigies of our Shunan Prefecture!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Themotion quickly drew the attention of everyone in the restaurant, and the crowd started gossiping. They were ustomed to such incidents and weren¡¯t overly concerned.

    As a key location on the way to the True Martial Academy¡¯s Gen Road, such battles urred every century. It wasn¡¯t the first or second time, though martial artists from the Hong Domain often ended up at a disadvantage.

    ¡°Wolf Pack Devours Tiger!¡±

    Qiu Bao shed fiercely with his saber. A pack of ferocious wolves formed from true primeval pounced at Zhou Qing. The wolves howled as they charged at Zhou Qing, surrounding him with apparent intelligence.

    The wolf pack¡¯s howls shook heaven and earth.

    Zhou Qing retreated, his sword light shing as he fought off the wolves. However, their numbers kept increasing, gradually encircling him and leaving him isted.

    ¡°Hahahaha, this is a top genius of Hong Domain. Pathetic!¡±

    Wang Heng and several other youthsughed heartily, dismissing the martial artists from the Hong Domain¡¯s thirty-six nations.

    ¡°He¡¯s about to lose.¡± Chen Fan observed, shaking his head. ¡°Indeed, there¡¯s always a higher mountain. The Hong Domain has been weak for many years. Our younger generation¡¯s geniusesg far behind in both quality and quantity.¡±

    The true reason for the gap wasn¡¯t individual talent.

    Although the Hong Domain asionally produced stunning geniuses, they often struggled against experts fromrger, more powerful domains. The reason was very simple.

    The Hong Domain¡¯s legacies were cut off.

    Throughout the entire Hong Domain, Emperor Li was the only known Heavenly Star realm expert. On the other hand, the Spring Sea Domain had no fewer than ten Heavenly Star realm experts. This stark contrast was evident.

    The difference in Divine Nascent realm experts was even greater.

    In the Great Chu Empire, only top-tier forces like the Spring Autumn Sect would have a Divine Nascent realm in their ranks overseeing them, and there would only be one or two of them.

    However, in the Great Ming Empire, numerous forces had Divine Nascent realm experts.

    The difference in the number of high-end experts was immense, naturally leading to an even wider gap among the juniors they trained.

    Zhou Qing¡¯s talent wasn¡¯t bad at all, but hecked a strong legacy foundation.

    This gap is also why many young experts from the Hong Domain choose to face the dangers of the Ancient Trial Road. Despite the clear risks of life and death, they see it as a necessary trial to emerge on top.

    That was because they could onlye out on top through this kind of tempering.

    They were much worse than the sessors of those stronger andrger domains, to begin with. If they still weren¡¯t willing to risk their lives, they could never get ahead.

    Chen Fan also understood this point very well.

    He was also like this.

    He was not born with a golden spoon in his mouth, and his father wasn¡¯t Li Gang. Only by working harder than others could he go further and be stronger than them. He could only rely on himself to get what he wanted. [1]

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying explosion erupted among the pack of wolves. Many of the ferocious wolves exploded, turning into masses of primeval qi and dissipating.

    Zhou Qing had executed a powerful counterattack, but he was in rough shape.

    He had just broken through Qiu Bao¡¯s Wolf Pack Devours Tiger, trying to catch his breath, when a streak of terrifying saber light fell from the sky, ready to split him in half.

    It was Qiu Bao¡¯s perfect follow-up attack, exploiting Zhou Qing¡¯s momentary vulnerability with ruthless precision.

    Seeing the fatal saber light bearing down on him, Zhou Qing stood paralyzed with fear, his face turning ghastly white.

    Just as Zhou Qing was about to be killed, a sharp wind-breaking noise rang out. A streak of light shot toward Qiu Bao like a bolt of lightning.

    Startled, Qiu Bao diverted his saber from Zhou Qing and swung it toward the iing light.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The streak of light was instantly cut in half. Only then did Qiu Bao realize that the light was merely a chopstick.

    Qiu Bao¡¯s expression was iparably dark as he turned his furious gaze toward Chen Fan.

    That streak of light hade from Chen Fan¡¯s direction. Only he was in that direction, not to mention that he was holding a single chopstick.

    ¡°Little bastard, you dare to sneak attack me!¡± Qiu Bao stared at Chen Fan with a tyrannical gaze.

    Chen Fan raised his head and said calmly, ¡°One should show mercy whenever possible. Besides, you''re interrupting my drink.¡±

    ¡°Bastard, you¡¯re courting death!¡± Qiu Bao was infuriated and said coldly, ¡°Judging by your clothing, you¡¯re also a martial artist from Hong Domain. Since you dare to sneak attack me, fine. I¡¯ll use your life to pay for his!¡±

    Qiu Bao summoned a fierce wind and lunged at Chen Fan, his expression twisted with malice. The saber in his hand shone with a merciless, icy luster, sweeping toward Chen Fan¡¯s neck in an instant.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, a mere seven-revolution Golden Core trash dares to sneak attack me. You must be tired of living!¡±

    Qiu Bao¡¯s words were savage, showing an evil grin on his face. He could already see Chen Fan getting decapitated in his head.

    But just as Qiu Bao¡¯s saber was about to strike Chen Fan¡¯s neck, Chen Fan made his move.

    Chen Fan raised his arm, extending two fingers to catch the iing saber. No matter how much force Qiu Bao exerted, he couldn¡¯t budge the weapon.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    In the next moment, Chen Fan applied pressure and snapped the saber in two.

    ¡°Have it back!¡±

    A cold luster shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, and he threw the broken saber back at Qiu Bao.

    <i>C!</i>

    The air was torn apart.

    Qiu Bao was shrouded by an aura of death in an instant. The broken saber was like the grim reaper¡¯s scythe,ing to reap his life.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    At the critical moment, Qiu Bao leaned to the side. The broken saber narrowly missed his vital organs but severed his right arm.

    Qiu Bao turned out to be quite a tough man. He merely groaned when his right arm was severed. He endured the excruciating pain and roared at Chen Fan, ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯ll regret this!¡±

    After leaving those threatening words, he hurriedly picked up his severed arm and fled with his gang of scoundrels.

    Although they were hedonists, they weren¡¯t fools. They realized Chen Fan was too powerful for them. Even if they wanted revenge, they needed their ns to step in.

    They were no match for Chen Fan. It would not be worth it if they angered him and brought about their deaths.

    1. Li Gang is a reference to a real-life DUI ident in China. Check Li Gang Incident on wiki if you wish to know more. ?

 Chapter 609 - Half-step Divine Nascent Realm Strikes

    <h4>Chapter 609 - Half-step Divine Nascent Realm Strikes</h4>

    Lingering fear on his face, Zhou Qing cupped his fists toward Chen Fan and thanked him, ¡°Brother, thank you very much for saving me!¡±

    Qiu Bao would have killed him if Chen Fan hadn¡¯t saved him.

    This was a genuine life-saving act.

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said dryly, ¡°No need to thank me. If your fight hadn¡¯t disturbed my drinking, I wouldn¡¯t have bothered.¡±

    Hong Ling, hot-tempered as ever, was about to snap back, but Zhou Qing stopped her, recognizing the wisdom in Chen Fan¡¯s words. ¡°Regardless, I have to thank you for saving my life. However, they definitely won¡¯t let this matter go. Brother, why don¡¯t you¡ª¡±

    Chen Fan cut Zhou Qing off before he could finish his sentence. ¡°No need to worry about me. They won¡¯t let this matter rest, so it¡¯s best if you leave this ce as soon as possible. As for me, you don¡¯t have to bother yourself.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? Don¡¯t think you¡¯re all that just because you saved us. We¡¯re only being nice...¡±

    Hong Ling began to snap, but Zhou Qing quickly silenced her and said, ¡°Hong Ling, shut your mouth! Brother, Hong Ling is a little hot-tempered. Please don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±

    Chen Fan nced at Hong Ling indifferently and said, ¡°I won¡¯t go so far as to bicker with a woman, but I advise you to work on your temperament. Like those people said, you might be considered top geniuses in the Hong Domain with impressive backgrounds, but this isn¡¯t the Hong Domain. If you want others to shut up, you need to be strong enough. Showing off without power is foolish, and you almost dragged yourpanions down with you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words weren¡¯t polite at all, immediately infuriating Hong Ling.

    Zhou Qing hurriedly stopped Hong Ling, who was about to argue with Chen Fan again. With a bitter smile, he said, ¡°You have a point brother. Since you don¡¯t intend toe with us, we shan¡¯t bother you any longer. Please excuse us.¡±

    After finishing his piece, he left the restaurant with hispanions, pulling Hong Ling along.

    Looking at their backs, Chen Fan shook his head. He wasn¡¯t in a hurry to leave. His curiosity about Qiu Bao¡¯s brother, Qiu Lang, kept him anchored.

    As the news of Qiu Bao¡¯s severed right arm spread, the entire Shunan Prefecture went into an uproar. It had been ages since a Hong Domain martial artist caused such a stir here.

    The uproar was immediate, with many moring to teach Chen Fan a lesson. However, despite the outcry, no one dared to make a move. They weren¡¯t even a match for Qiu Bao, let alone Chen Fan.

    Witnesses of the battle began recounting the events, their stories growing more exaggerated with each recount.

    They imed that although Chen Fan was only a seven-revolution Golden Core realm expert, he snapped Qiu Bao¡¯s saber with only his fingers. He disyedbat strength that rivaled, if not surpassed, that of a half-step Divine Nascent realm expert.

    The defeat of Qiu Bao, a nine-revolution Golden Core realm expert, had painted Chen Fan as an unstoppable force.

    The day gradually turned dark. Chen Fan sat in the small courtyard outside his amodation. Looking up at the slightly gloomy moonlight, he muttered, ¡°I¡¯m afraid the road ahead won¡¯t be easy!¡±

    The Spring Sea Domain, despite being a middle-ranking domain, was nothingpared to therger and stronger domains out there. Yet, the random geniuses here were in the nine-revolution Golden Core realm.

    It made him wonder just how terrifyingly powerful the prodigies from the top-tier domains would be.

    The Ancient Trial Roads were paths filled with bloodshed. He had just stepped onto this path, and his opponents were already this mighty. He anticipated that the closer he got to the True Martial Academy, the stronger his adversaries would be.

    ¡°Nine-revolution Golden Core realm experts are already showing up, and I have barely started. I¡¯m afraid what¡¯s waiting for me ahead are Divine Nascent realm powerhouses!¡±

    A light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Although he was nowparable to a middle-stage, first-level Divine Nascent realm expert¡ªan achievement that would ce him among the strongest in the Great Chu Empire¡ªhe knew this was far from enough.

    The path ahead was fraught with peril.

    However, this only strengthened his resolve.

    The more difficult the journey, the more interested he was in conquering it. He would only enter the True Martial Academy¡¯s eyes if he made a name for himself on this road.

    The True Martial Academy was a hierarchy where disciples were divided into strict sses based on their achievements

    Take the lowest ss errand disciples, for example. Those who failed to distinguish themselves on the Ancient Trial Roads would end up as errand disciples, destined for a bleak future.

    Going up from there, they were outer sect disciples, inner sect disciples, elite disciples, and core disciples.

    To secure better treatment as soon as one entered the True Martial Academy, they had to make a name for themselves on the Ancient Trial Roads and enter the discerning eyes of the experts and old monsters. If their status was higher, naturally the treatment they received wouldn¡¯t be bad.

    While talent for martial arts was very important, cultivation resources were equally important.

    ¡°I have to break through to the Divine Nascent realm as soon as possible. In theter stages, I am sure I will have to face fifth or sixth-level Divine Nascent realm experts. With my puny cultivation, I will be like an ant in their eyes.¡±

    A sense of urgency rose in Chen Fan¡¯s heart. Ultimately, his cultivation was his only shoring.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan sensed a majestic pressure pressing down on him.

    A cold light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Half-step Divine Nascent realm!¡±

    His figure shed as he rose into the air.

    Chen Fan saw a person dressed in ck approaching. They wielded a poisoned dagger that glowed with a dark light under the moonlight.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    No unnecessary words were spoken. This ck-clothed man darted toward Chen Fan like an evil spirit.

    The poisoned dagger corroded the air, swiping toward Chen Fan¡¯s neck.

    ¡°Why would youe to throw your life away!¡±

    Facing the ck-clothed man¡¯s attack, Chen Fan did not show the slightest hint of panic. When the dagger was about to graze his neck, Chen Fan suddenly drifted backward, easily dodging the ck-clothed man¡¯s vicious strike.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± The ck-clothed man snorted coldly. He pounced at Chen Fan once more, determined to kill him.

    Chen Fan grabbed at the empty air, condensing a Heaven Piercing Spear in his hand. He stabbed it violently toward the oing ck-clothed man.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The air exploded. It was just an ordinary stab, but it sealed off all paths of retreat for the ck-clothed man.

    In an instant, a will of death descended on the ck-clothed man. His expression changed drastically.

    s, wanting to assassinate Chen Fan with only half-step Divine Nascent realm cultivation was simply delusional.

    He was simply powerless to resist. The Heaven Piercing Spear directly broke through the ck-clothed man¡¯s powers and pierced his skull.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s force erupted, and the ck-clothed man¡¯s head burst open like a watermelon.

 Chapter 610 - Qiu Lang

    <h4>Chapter 610 - Qiu Lang</h4>

    Although the exchange between Chen Fan and the ck-clothed man was short, it did not slip through the senses of the experts in Shunan Prefecture.

    When the ck-clothed man arrived, he had openly disyed his half-step Divine Nascent realm aura, drawing significant attention.

    As a result, numerous powerful divine wills quickly scanned the scene and were astonished to learn that Chen Fan had killed the ck-clothed man in a single strike.

    ¡°He is from the Hong Domain? I didn¡¯t expect such a talent to emerge from there. Although the ck-clothed man was only a half-step Divine Nascent realm who used underhanded tactics, the fact remains that he is a half-step Divine Nascent realm. To think someone in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm could defeat him so easily is truly impressive.¡±

    ¡°The Hong Domain still has geniuses, huh? If he doesn¡¯t die this time, it¡¯ll be great to bring him under my wing.¡±

    The divine wills, belonging to Divine Nascent realm experts, conversed in the sky.

    Achieving the Divine Nascent realm generates a divine will, which is a heightened form of perception.

    Despite not yet reaching the Divine Nascent realm or having a divine will himself, Chen Fan''s mental strength was so formidable it wasparable to a divine will.

    Listening to their talk, Chen Fanughed coldly inside. These people should look at themselves and see if they were worthy.

    These people were only in the first-level Divine Nascent realm, and they wanted to recruit him and make him work for them. What a big joke.

    These people have definitely been acting arrogant for too long. The Great Ming Empire was indeed stronger than the Great Chu Empire, but that did not mean that a mere Shunan Prefecture would beparable to the Great Chu Empire.

    Chen Fan ignored these people¡¯s divine wills. After killing the ck-clothed man, he returned to the inn and continued to cultivate.

    He knew that this ck-clothed man was likely sent by the Qiu n to test the waters and check his cultivation level.

    The next day, while Chen Fan was focused on advancing to the eight-revolution Golden Core realm, a crushing pressure suddenly descended, shaking the entire inn as if it might copse.

    A slightly hoarse voice resounded through the sky like a wild beast¡¯s roar. ¡°That Hong Domain martial artist,e out and receive your death!¡±

    The roar was like rolling thunder, nketing the area with an oppressive weight that left nearby people stunned and fearful.

    In the sky above the inn, a figure hovered. This person was lean with a sharp gaze and exuded a fierce, menacing aura. His appearance was rough, with dark green eyes that resembled those of a fierce wolf.

    The roar from this figure made the air on the street seethe with tension.

    It was a terrifying power. A boundless killing intent swept over, icy and piercing to the bone, like it was midwinter.

    People on the street fled in panic, their expressions filled with dread as they nced at the menacing figure above.

    The aura was so overwhelming it seemed otherworldly, like a bloodthirsty werewolf, making everyone fear that lingering even a moment longer might bring disaster.

    ¡°Who is this person? Isn¡¯t he being too arrogant?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know him? You must be from the countryside! He is Qiu Lang, one of the three prodigies and the most outstanding descendant of thergest n in the city, the Qiu n. Rumors say that he identally entered a wolf n¡¯s territory. Surprisingly, he didn¡¯t die and even obtained the wolf n¡¯s legacy, gaining the bloodline of a Vicious Hell Wolf. If he goes berserk, his strength instantly doubles, and he transforms into a werewolf. He is a first-level Divine Nascent realm powerhouse; he isn¡¯t even fifty yet.¡±

    ¡°Heavens, isn¡¯t that a blessing in disguise to obtain the bloodline of a Vicious Hell Wolf? <i>Tsk, tsk</i>, I saw in an ancient record that that is a bloodline of the wolf god. I wonder who provoked such an extremely savage guy.¡±

    ¡°I heard that it¡¯s a martial artist from the Hong Domain. He severed the right arm of his younger brother, Qiu Bao. He should be here to seek revenge.¡±

    ¡°<i>Tsk, tsk</i>. That Hong Domain guy is in for a bad time. I can already imagine the terrible fate awaiting him.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people trembled as they felt the ferocious aura from Qiu Lang.

    The vicious energy, akin to an ancient beast, overwhelmed their senses. Even a nine-revolution Golden Core realm supreme expert would be struck with fear.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A powerful aura erupted from within the inn. Chen Fan rose to the sky and stood opposite Qiu Lang.

    ¡°You hurt my brother?¡± Qiu Lang asked, his voice low and muffled. His dark green eyes locked onto Chen Fan like a predatory wolf, ready to strike at any moment.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s me.¡± Chen Fan nodded calmly.

    ¡°Very well. Since you severed my younger brother¡¯s arm, I shall cut off all your limbs, turn you into a human stick, and hang you on the city walls. That will show everyone the price of offending someone from the Qiu n!¡± Qiu Lang said icily, his words cruel, sending shivers down people¡¯s spines.

    Immediately, many people¡¯s gazes shifted onto Chen Fan with hints of pity.

    He had offended the Qiu n by severing Qiu Bao¡¯s arm. This young man from Hong Domain would probably not meet a good end.

    Instead of being turned into a human stick, it would be better if he just let Qiu Lang kill him in one sh.

    ¡°With just you? Who do you think you are?¡± Chen Fanughed coldly. ¡°Three prodigies of Shunan Prefecture? Howughable!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words immediately caused Qiu Lang¡¯s expression to ashen.

    Qiu Lang¡¯s fierce reputation extended beyond Shunan Prefecture; he was also feared in the surrounding areas, with some parents even using his name to scare their unruly children.

    From Qiu Lang¡¯s perspective, his threat to turn Chen Fan into a human stick should have prompted immediate fear and begging for mercy.

    Chen Fan¡¯s arrogance and disregard were unprecedented and infuriating, especiallying from someone from the supposedly weak Hong Domain.

    The burning anger in his chest instantly erupted, zing fiercely.

    ¡°You damned brat, I can crush you with just one hand!¡±

    Qiu Lang¡¯s terrifying aura spread out in all directions in an instant, locking onto Chen Fan. It was as if he would hunt Chen Fan until he was dead even if he fled to the ends of the world.

    The terrifying aura was as vast as the ocean.

    The aura of a ferocious beast was wrapped within, adding a touch of brutality to it. It was like a fierce wolf was staring at its prey.

    ¡°One hand?¡± Chen Fan sneered disdainfully upon hearing what Qiu Lang said. His cultivation erupted, and his aura also rushed to the sky, colliding with Qiu Lang¡¯s aura. A loud rumble rang out like the heavens had exploded.

    A peerless berserk aura blossomed as if a heavenly god had descended, making everyone submit.

 Chapter 611 - Berserk Showdown

    <h4>Chapter 611 - Berserk Showdown</h4>

    The two terrifying auras collided violently in the air.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space let out an angry roar.

    Their auras seemed to materialize and collide, causing the winds and clouds to change colors and triggering terrifying waves of qi.

    ¡°One p and you¡¯re done. That¡¯s how weak you are to me, no different than an ant. You may be considered a top genius in Hong Domain, but in front of me, you¡¯re nothing!¡± Qiu Lang said arrogantly. His overwhelming aura swept out as he dismissed Chen Fan.

    Qiu Lang was on his way to the True Martial Academy to challenge experts from around the world. He considered a martial artist from a weak domain like the Hong Domain beneath his notice.

    His opponents were the geniuses from therge and powerful domains. He would not attach any importance to the geniuses from weak domains.

    He had advanced to the Divine Nascent realm long ago. Possessing great strength, he thought that he had a ce among the experts of the younger generation.

    It was like a savage, vicious wolf was targeting Chen Fan. It was very terrifying.

    Though his words were brazen, Qiu Lang indeed had the strength to back them up.

    The oppression Chen Fan felt from Qiu Lang was even stronger than that from the tenth blood demonmander. Qiu Lang was likely on the verge of reaching the middle-stage, first-level Divine Nascent realm.

    The crowd of onlookers trembled in fear, especially the newbie Divine Nascent realm experts who rushed over. Qiu Lang¡¯s ferocious aura made them feel a deep sense of danger.

    They all had a feeling that the newer generation had overtaken the old.

    These veteran experts had dominated for over a century, only to be outdone by a young man not even fifty years old.

    However, what astonished them more was that despite only being in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, Chen Fan didn¡¯t seem at a disadvantage against Qiu Lang¡¯s oppressive aura. Instead, he seemed eager for the confrontation.

    This surprised them.

    Although they knew that Chen Fan had killed a half-step Divine Nascent realm expertst night, the difference between a half-step Divine Nascent realm and a real Divine Nascent realm expert was immense.

    And Qiu Lang, renowned for his ferocity, was no ordinary opponent.

    Even veteran first-level Divine Nascent realm experts like them felt their hearts pounding when facing Qiu Lang.

    Qiu Lang soon noticed that his aura had little effect on Chen Fan. He roared, making the air explode and boil over. The masses of clouds in the sky exploded from his roar, it was extremely terrifying.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    With a swift motion, Qiu Lang unleashed a terrifying sh of saber qi that transformed into a massive, vicious wolf, charging through the sky with its jaws wide open, ready to behead Chen Fan.

    Yesterday, Qiu Bao had also unleashed a sh;pared to this, that was nothing.

    The space was torn apart. The air quickly escaped, producing a sharp whistling noise. The sheer force of the attack made Chen Fan¡¯s hair stand on end.

    The attack proved that Qiu Lang was stronger than the tenth blood demonmander. Yet, despite this, he remained unafraid.

    If he could kill the tenth blood demonmander, he could kill Qiu Lang.

    Chen Fan had grown significantly stronger since then, and any trace of fear had vanished. He calmly raised his hand and punched.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The terrifying fist force twisted into a mass and charged out like a cannonball. The space vibrated and shook, and the oing vicious wolf was blown away.

    The nearby crowd¡¯s eyes widened in shock.

    Chen Fan had shattered Qiu Lang¡¯s ferocious attack with a single punch. It was simply unbelievable.

    ¡°A little interesting. It¡¯s no wonder you could kill a half-step Divine Nascent realm expert, but it¡¯s useless!¡± Qiu Lang¡¯s gaze momentarily froze, surprised that Chen Fan had countered his attack so easily. It was a blow to his pride.

    His figure blurred as he stepped on a green light and lunged at Chen Fan like a ferocious wolf hunting for food.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan did not show any weakness. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he met Qiu Lang head-on and the two shed with immense force.

    The collision unleashed terrifying energy, creating boundless qi waves that spread outward in rings.

    ¡°Vicious Wolf sh!¡±

    Qiu Lang shed out repeatedly, tearing the air apart as the saber lights transformed into cruel, vicious wolves, and pounced toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan remained aloof, swinging the Purgatory Divine Halberd. Streaks of deadly halberd light flew out, colliding with those vicious wolves.

    Those vicious wolves were ripped apart by the deadly halberd lights like blocks of tofu or pieces of paper, unable to get near Chen Fan at all.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Another terrifying explosion rang out.

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura boiled violently as he thrust the Purgatory Divine Halberd. It pierced through space as it rushed toward Qiu Lang.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Qiu Lang shed down with his saber, cleaving through Chen Fan¡¯s furious stab. However, he was still pushed back.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to have this much strength. This is getting interesting. It seems you truly are a top genius of the Hong Domain, wielding Divine Nascent realmbat strength with only seven-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation. Very good, I¡¯ve never killed a genius like you before. You shall be the first!¡± Qiu Lang licked his lips, looking at Chen Fan, his eyes full of excitement.

    Chen Fan was only in the seven-revolution Golden Core realm, but hisbat strength was on the level of the Divine Nascent realm.

    To not only exchange so many moves but also force Qiu Lang back, his monstrous talent and overwhelming power were undeniable.

    This was a true monster-ss genius.

    The thought of ying such a formidable opponent only fueled Qiu Lang¡¯s excitement.

    ¡°You will definitely die today. No one can save you!¡± said Qiu Lang, overflowing with killing intent. ¡°You really got me excited. There¡¯s nothing quite like the thrill of killing a monstrous genius like you.¡±

    Qiu Lang¡¯s expression turned savage, his face lighting up with cruel anticipation. His dark green eyes emitted a very terrifying luster.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Qiu Lang shed his saber horizontally. The ferocious energy swept out, augmenting his terrifying aura.

    He rushed straight toward Chen Fan. Every step he took shook the heavens like a killing god was charging at him.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan shouted, his blood heating up.

    Only in battle with an evenly matched opponent did his blood truly race, pushing him to new heights.

    Facing weaker foes would only dull his edge, no matter how talented he was, eventually leaving him behind themon people.

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura burned fiercely, sweeping out with his Purgatory Divine Halberd. It copsed the starry sky, and the air exploded by the inch, setting off a berserk qi wave.

    He shed violently with Qiu Lang, and they bombarded each other with attacks. The battle raged on with unmatched intensity.

 Chapter 612 - Transform into Werewolf

    <h4>Chapter 612 - Transform into Werewolf</h4>

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The air in heaven and earth turned into storms, growing fiercer with each passing second as they swept in all directions.

    Chen Fan and Qiu Lang were absolute experts.

    Heaven and earth shook from their sh, and the space seemed on the verge of shattering. The scene was something straight out of an apocalypse.

    Countless experts in the city watched with their eyes wide and mouths agape, especially the Divine Nascent realm powerhouses. When they witnessed their terrifying strengths, they felt their hearts throbbing. They wondered when the younger generation had be this powerful.

    A new wave of cultivators had overtaken them all.

    Whenever it was time for the True Martial Academy to open, countless geniuses from the entire eastern continent woulde here in droves. Consequently, the citizens would get the chance to enjoy the most intense and brilliant of shes between geniuses.

    This seven-revolution Golden Core realm martial artist, Chen Fan, was quite noteworthy. He had pushed Qiu Lang, a Divine Nascent realm, to this extent. It was a jaw-dropping feat. They simply couldn¡¯t believe their eyes.

    The seven-revolution Golden Core realm still belonged to the Core Formation realm. The gap between the Core Formation realm and the Divine Nascent realm was like an unbridgeable chasm. Making up for that gap was nigh impossible.

    However, Chen Fan had seemingly crossed that chasm, fiercely fighting a Divine Nascent realm expert while being in the Golden Core realm cultivation.

    The collision between the two was incredibly intense, but Chen Fan did not fall into a disadvantaged position at all, making it even more unbelievable.

    To put it into perspective, a seven-revolution Golden Core realm could barely squeeze into the ranks of first-rate martial artists among the younger generation in Shunan Prefecture.

    But this young man from Hong Domain was proving to be truly monstrous, leaving everyone in awe.

    ¡°Incredible. Whether it''s Qiu Lang or that martial artist from the Hong Domain, both havebat strength that rivals peak first-level Divine Nascent realm experts. It¡¯s terrifying how powerful the younger generation is bing.¡±

    ¡°That strength at least makes sense in Qiu Lang¡¯s case, given his notorious reputation and established strength. But that guy from the Hong Domain... What is his golden core made of? Four centuries I have spent on thisnd, but this is a first.¡±

    ¡°Every time the True Martial Academy is about to open, terrifying, monstrous geniuses emerge. This young man from Hong Domain is definitely a monster-ss genius. If he doesn¡¯t die and enters the True Martial Academy, his future will be limitless.¡±

    ¡°I fear he won¡¯t get the chance. Qiu Lang has the bloodline of a Vicious Hell Wolf. When he goes berserk and transforms into a werewolf, the young man from the Hong Domain won¡¯t stand a chance.¡±

    ¡°You have a point.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd watched the fierce aerial battle, their voices filled with concern and spection.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their attacks shed, bursting with a blinding light that shattered the clouds above.

    The space where they fought quaked violently, and the air churned like crashing waves. Even the Divine Nascent realm powerhouses below dared not approach recklessly.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Bothbatants had unleashed their full strength, and every sh felt like meteors striking the earth, producing thunderous sounds as if heaven and earth were being torn apart.

    ¡°You abominable bastard, just die, die, die!¡± Qiu Lang¡¯s furious roar rang out from the sky.

    He was one of the three prodigies of Shunan Prefecture, a Divine Nascent realm expert. His fierce reputation had spread far and wide. Yet, he couldn¡¯t defeat Chen Fan, a mere seven-revolution Golden Core realm cultivator. It was infuriating.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi!</i>

    Qiu Lang swung his saber with relentless fury. Each sh tore through the air with devastating force. The iparably terrifying saber light shed in the sky. Even those in the same cultivation level as him would be heavily injured under this barrage of attacks.

    However, Chen Fan remained as steadfast as reefs in the sea, untouched by the raging storm. No matter how violently the winds howled, and the waves crashed, he stood unperturbed, delivering deadly halberd strikes one after another. His defenses were tight, preventing any attack from breaching his guard.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Failing to do a thing to Chen Fan, Qiu Lang roared angrily, his face contorted with rage. The intensity of his anger seemed almost capable of igniting the heavens.

    His saber art was wild and domineering, each sh powerful enough to split mountains and rivers.

    Terrifying saber qi swept out, and the howls of a vicious wolf rang out continuously, creating an overwhelmingly intense and fearsome disy.

    <i>Boom, boom.</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Qiu Lang¡¯s saber art was explosive, but Chen Fan¡¯s halberd art wasn¡¯t weak, either. Every move was swift as thunder and incredibly powerful, shing with Qiu Lang repeatedly, causing sparks to fly everywhere.

    Their clothing was torn, and numerous bloody cuts appeared on them. They were drenched in fresh blood, looking very miserable.

    Despite their injuries, neither showed any sign of backing down. Their gazes grew colder, and their attacks more frenzied. They had already exchanged over a hundred blows.

    Despite his bloodied appearance, Chen Fan fared better than Qiu Lang. Chen Fan''s physique,parable to a Grade-4 or 5 treasure, was exceptionally strong. And although he had barely cultivated the Hegemonic Golden Body, it had significantly enhanced his durability.

    On the contrary, although Qiu Lang possessed the bloodline of a Vicious Hell Wolf and his physique was much stronger than ordinary people¡¯s, it paled inparison to Chen Fan¡¯s.

    The two were locked in an epic aerial battle, each move executed with such precision and power that it left no room for error or excess.

    ¡°Ah, you abominable bastard. Very good, very good. You¡¯ve hurt me, you¡¯ve infuriated me, you¡¯ve made me thoroughly furious. I¡¯ll shred you to pieces, you bastard! You¡¯ll regret this, you¡¯ll definitely regret angering me to this extent, ahhh!¡± Qiu Lang howled in fury, his voice tinged with madness as Chen Fan gradually gained the upper hand.

    A blood-red, bloodthirsty light shone in his dark green eyes. A menacing aura surged from him as if something primal had been unleashed.

    ¡°<i>Aooo</i>!¡±

    Suddenly, Qiu Lang¡¯s saber struck with a force that far surpassed Chen Fan¡¯s expectations.

    It shattered Chen Fan¡¯s defenses in a single blow, sending him flying ten kilometers away, with blood staining the sky.

    Qiu Lang underwent a drastic transformation.

    Fur sprouted across his face, and his ears also became sharper. His limbs morphed into those of a demonic wolf,plete with razor-sharp ws. An iparably brutal aura erupted from him.

    ¡°He¡¯s enraged, Qiu Lang¡¯s finally transformed into a werewolf!¡±

    The crowd below eximed in shock when they saw the changes in Qiu Lang, their gazes flickering with fear.

 Chapter 613 - Terrifying Werewolf

    <h4>Chapter 613 - Terrifying Werewolf</h4>

    ¡°He transformed! Qiu Lang transformed into a werewolf!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, what a brutal aura. It feels like he¡¯s a bloodthirsty beast ready to tear people apart!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s over. That Hong Domain martial artist is done for.¡±

    ¡°I can already picture that martial artist being shredded and hearing his screams.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Qiu Lang transformed into a werewolf, the surrounding crowd gasped in shock, their fear evident.

    Everyone knew Qiu Lang was seething with rage; he wouldn¡¯t have assumed this monstrous form otherwise.

    In his werewolf form, Qiu Lang had once ripped a half-step Divine Nascent realm expert into pieces; he was only in the eight-revolution Golden Core realm then. And that was why many were afraid of his werewolf form. The agonized screams of that expert echoed throughout Shunan Prefecture, leaving everyone who witnessed it trembling with terror.

    Chen Fan steadied himself, feeling a stinging pain in his chest.

    However, he couldn¡¯t afford to check on his injuries. His focus remained on Qiu Lang, who appeared even more menacing in his transformed state.

    Although Qiu Lang had been heavily injured, his aura now seemed to grow stronger; it was constantly hissing and growling. He was rapidly changing: ash-green fur spread over him, his hands morphed into wolf paws with sharp ws, and his injuries healed visibly before Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°You little bastard, you will regret this. You will definitely regret this! But even if you do, it won¡¯t matter. I¡¯ll tear you apart slowly and make you suffer!¡±

    Qiu Lang¡¯s cruel, bloodthirsty gazended on Chen Fan. It felt as if a peerless beast had targeted him, and his muscles instinctively tensed, his scalp prickling with unease.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, taking a deep breath as he braced himself for the impending battle.

    He knew it would be a fierce struggle, but fear was thest thing on his mind. Instead, his blood burned with rising intensity.

    This was a test he had to go through on the road to the True Martial Academy. If he could not surmount the obstacle that was Qiu Lang, it would be impossible for him to pass the Ancient Trial Road and be a disciple of the True Martial Academy.

    A valiant battle intent erupted from Chen Fan. He stared sharply at Qiu Lang, grasping the Purgatory Divine Halberd even tighter.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Qiu Lang suddenly moved, leaving a trail of afterimages in his wake as he tore through the air with incredible speed, the sonic boom echoing behind him.

    Chen Fan barely had time to react before Qiu Lang appeared in front of him, his sharp ws shing down with violent force. The eerie light from the attack sent chills down his spine, and a powerful sense of danger overwhelmed him.

    An ash-green figure had lunged at him, like a beast of raw power.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Qiu Lang abandoned his saber art after transforming into a werewolf. His ws smashed down violently with a rumble, shattering the air and copsing arge area of the void.

    The terrifying gale scraped against Chen Fan¡¯s face like sharp knives, causing a prickly pain.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s arm, which gripped the Purgatory Divine Halberd, felt as though it might snap under the pressure. Qiu Lang¡¯s w struck the Purgatory Divine Halberd with the force of an ancient divine mountain crashing from the heavens, aiming to crush him into a paste.

    The force was overwhelming, matching the power of his Strength of Myriad Elephants.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan was thrown backward, knocking into the air so hard it exploded by the inch, ringing non-stop.

    After transforming into a werewolf, Qiu Lang¡¯s speed and strength had reached a whole new level. His overallbat prowess had more than doubled.

    Originally at the peak of the early-stage, first-level Divine Nascent realm, his strength now neared that of ate-stage Divine Nascent realm expert.

    ¡°What horrifying speed. I didn¡¯t even see how he got in front of that Hong Domain martial artist.¡±

    ¡°How fearsome. This is his werewolf form. His strength has more than doubled.¡±

    ¡°As expected. Once Qiu Lang transformed, that Hong Domain martial artist was utterly helpless.¡±

    ¡°Now, we just have to watch Qiu Lang rip the Hong Domain martial artist apart.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The surrounding crowd was shocked when they saw Qiu Lang¡¯s ferocious assault send Chen Fan flying. Their eyeballs nearly popped out of their sockets.

    ¡°Now, little bastard, I¡¯ll tear off your right arm first. Are you done preparing yourself mentally?¡± Qiu Lang closed in with lightning speed, his voice echoing like a malevolent spirit from the depths of hell, sending shivers through everyone.

    Qiu Lang enjoyed narrating their helpless future to his opponents, taking perverse pleasure in their fear and helplessness. The sight of their powerless expressions brought him sadistic joy.

    Chen Fan did not say a word, his face growing increasingly grave.

    Channeling the Heaven Seizing Furnace, Chen Fan stoked the furnace¡¯s power, suppressing the turbulent qi and blood within him. A stern light shed in his eyes.

    Qiu Lang¡¯s mocking voice came from beside him.

    ¡°Your right arm is mine!¡±

    A fierce light zed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He raised his hand and shed abruptly, unleashing the Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Fresh blood spattered.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable cry rang out.

    When the crowd below heard this miserable cry and saw the fresh blood spattering, everyone thought Qiu Lang had made good on his promise.

    However, their shock turned to confusion as they realized that the severed paw covered in green fur belonged to Qiu Lang, not Chen Fan.

    The werewolf¡¯s hand had been chopped off by Chen Fan instead of Chen Fan¡¯s arm being torn away. The crowd stared in stunned disbelief, unable to process the unexpected turn of events.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Qiu Lang quickly fell back. His face, full of fur, twisted violently from the pain, looking very frightening.

    ¡°Ahhh, bastard, you damned bastard, how dare you sneak attack me! You¡¯ve hurt me, you¡¯ve hurt me deeply. Shreds, I¡¯ll make sure to tear you to shreds, you abominable bastard!¡± Qiu Lang roared furiously, erupting with an overwhelming tyrannical aura.

    Although Chen Fan had sliced off Qiu Lang¡¯s paw with a Green Lotus Sword Qi, a werewolf¡¯s power of regeneration was very frightening. The severed paw had grown back in a sh, butpared to the original paw, the new ws seemed very fragile.

    Hearing Qiu Lang¡¯s furious roar, Chen Fan¡¯s expression remained indifferent as his icy voice resounded through the air. ¡°Today, I¡¯ll cut down a freak like you, neither human nor wolf, and rid the world of your evil!¡±

    Before the words had even faded, Chen Fan surged forward,unching an attack on Qiu Lang.

 Chapter 614 - Killing Qiu Lang

    <h4>Chapter 614 - Killing Qiu Lang</h4>

    Being called a freak who was neither human nor wolf was far from praise. Qiu Lang¡¯s fury exploded.

    ¡°Ah, you dare to insult the great Wolf God, you deserve to die!¡±

    He carried the bloodline of a Vicious Hell Wolf, a creature with ties to the Wolf God himself. To insult his bloodline was to insult the Wolf God¡ªa crime that could not be forgiven.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to eat you. I¡¯ll eat you alive!¡±

    Qiu Lang¡¯s mouth watered as he spoke, saliva drooling from the corners. He roared, ¡°Your blood has a scent I crave. If I eat you, I will grow stronger. I will devour you.¡±

    After his transformation, Qiu Lang¡¯s wolf instincts had overwhelmed his human side, intensified by his Vicious Hell Wolf bloodline. His anger further drove his berserk wolf nature.

    He could almost instinctively feel that the true dragon bloodline inside Chen Fan was a great tonic for him, igniting his desire to consume it.

    ¡°You want to eat me? I¡¯ll ughter you, you wolf bastard!¡±

    Killing intent shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He swiped out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in the air. A deadly halberd light shot toward Qiu Lang at a tricky angle.

    ¡°Eat you, I¡¯m going to eat you!¡±

    Qiu Lang¡¯s mind had fully merged with his wolf nature, driven solely by demonic instincts.

    He swiped at the air with his sharp ws, shattering the iing halberd light. With terrifying speed, he transformed into a dark green blur, lunging toward Chen Fan like a flood.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed with brilliance as heshed out with his leg like an ancient divine whip, causing the air to explode.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s kick struck the dark green blur, blowing it apart and revealing Qiu Lang. He hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to stop his fierce attack so abruptly.

    He knew best how strong he was after transforming into a werewolf. He could shatter mountain peaks and crush ordinary first-level Divine Nascent realm experts instantly.

    Even other powerhouses at his level wouldn¡¯t dare face his force head-on. Yet, Chen Fan had dismantled his attack with a single kick, seeming to do so effortlessly.

    Unbeknownst to Qiu Lang, Chen Fan had used the Strength of Myriad Elephants together with the power of the Hegemonic Golden Body in that kick earlier. The force was immense enough to destroy mountains¡ªone even a hundred thousand feet tall.

    Although Qiu Lang¡¯s strength had increased greatly after transforming into a werewolf, he could notpare to Chen Fan at all when he brought out all his strength.

    The difference in physique between the two was too great.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>! Chen Fan shouted as he gathered power in his foot again. Qiu Lang had no chance to resist and was sent flying.

    Chen Fan promptly gave chase with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd, radiating a power capable of annihting immortals and ying gods, shed toward Qiu Lang. If the attacknded, Qiu Lang would be reduced to pieces even if he was made of steel.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    A wolf¡¯s howl erupted from Qiu Lang as a savage Vicious Hell Wolf materialized from within him. The monstrous wolf lunged forward, its jaws wide open, swallowing Chen Fan¡¯s devastating sh and even letting out a burp.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s sh wasn¡¯t that easy to swallow.

    The Vicious Hell Wolf became bloated and exploded, leaving nothing behind, but Qiu Lang used this opportunity to escape the crisis.

    ¡°Wolf bastard, where do you think you¡¯re running? Come receive your death!¡± Chen Fan roared, relentlessly pursuing Qiu Lang, who had narrowly escaped destruction.

    A terrifying halberd light swept across the sky very powerfully, as if it could destroy the entire universe, sting toward Qiu Lang.

    This was an incredibly fierce showdown. Many observers felt fear and trepidation. They questioned themselves¡ªcould they have fought better if they were in the same situation?

    The answer came swiftly: No, they couldn¡¯t.

    Many people had been thinking of recruiting Chen Fan, but now that they think about it, it was simplyughable.

    His power was greater than any of theirs. He could dominate Shunan Prefecture, and no one would dare oppose him.

    ¡°How terrifying. I didn¡¯t expect the Hong Domain to produce such a monstrous genius. Even Qiu Lang¡¯s werewolf form is unable to suppress him. It¡¯s actually struggling to keep up.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? This young man is truly incredible, possessing such terrifying strength with only seven-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation. I¡¯m afraid that in the entire Shunan Prefecture, only those second-level Divine Nascent realm experts can suppress him.¡±

    ¡°This time, I¡¯m afraid Qiu Lang has kicked an iron te. He was no match for him even after transforming into his werewolf form. Sure enough, under the vast heavens, there will always be someone better.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    <i>Boom, boom boom!</i>

    Explosions rang out repeatedly in the sky.

    Terrifying air currents rolled down like a waterfall, the impact cracking the streets. It was very scary.

    Had some experts not intervened and dispersed the air currents, many people would have been caught in the aftermath.

    The battle had reached its climax.

    The crowd watched as Chen Fan grew increasingly ferocious with each passing moment, his momentum unmatched.

    In contrast, despite Qiu Lang¡¯s considerable boost in strength from his werewolf transformation, Chen Fan¡¯s earlier blow had thoroughly disrupted his momentum. Qiu Lang was now firmly suppressed, his previous vigor now a distant memory.

    Not too long ago, Qiu Lang had charged at Chen Fan with great fervor, looking like an unrivaled expert. Unexpectedly, he soon fell into a disadvantage, with numerous bloody gashes covering him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A fierce halberd sh sent Qiu Lang flying, blood spurting wildly. Struggling to maintain himself, Qiu Lang had finally regained his senses and realized the dire situation he faced.

    ¡°Damn it, how could this happen? Why did something like this happen? You¡¯re only a seven-revolution Golden Core. Why are you so strong? Even my werewolf form is no match for you!¡± Qiu Lang spewed blood repeatedly, his eyeballs trembling as he roared angrily, having lost allposure.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you are just weak. That¡¯s all. Go to hell!¡± Chen Fan scoffed, charging forward. The Purgatory Divine Halberd resembled the grim reaper¡¯s scythe, slicing through space as it drove toward Qiu Lang.

    Qiu Lang¡¯s face turned pale with terror. He immediately gathered his strength to form arge shield. On the surface of the shield was a vicious wolf¡¯s head, with bursts of an ancient aura seeping out.

    ¡°Vicious Wolf Divine Shield!¡±

    This divine shield, formed from both a treasured artifact and Qiu Lang¡¯s Vicious Hell Wolf bloodline, was hisst defense. He hoped it would block Chen Fan¡¯s lethal attack.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Vicious Wolf Divine Shield shattered.

    With nothing left to stop him, Chen Fan¡¯s Purgatory Divine Halberd drove straight in, targeting Qiu Lang¡¯s head to kill him.

    ¡°Stop!¡± Suddenly, a loud, furious roar rang from inside the city. An immense hand ripped through the sky, violently reaching toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly, stabbing out without any hesitation.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd crushed Qiu Lang¡¯s head in front of his despairing gaze, thoroughly annihting his divine soul.

 Chapter 615 - Old Ancestor Qiu

    <h4>Chapter 615 - Old Ancestor Qiu</h4>

    A fiery rage erupted from within the city the moment Qiu Lang died.

    ¡°Ahhh, bastard, you¡¯re courting death! You deserve a thousand deaths for your sin!¡±

    The skies over Shunan Prefecture darkened as a terrifying aura enveloped the city.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression darkened. He quickly seized Qiu Lang¡¯s corpse, storing it away. Unleashing his Wings of Rain Dragon, he shot off into the distance with lightning speed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A massive hand, seemingly capable of covering the entire sky, reached for him from behind.

    As it moved, the surrounding space copsed, distorting reality itself, obliterating buildings, and turning martial artists with lower cultivation into mists of blood.

    The owner of the hand, consumed by rage, showed no intention of stopping. His furious roars echoed, filled with an intense anger that felt like it could incinerate the heavens.

    The people of Shunan Prefecture all felt this burning rage. Their souls trembled in fear, wanting to prostrate themselves on the ground.

    ¡°Qiu Lang is dead. The Qiu n¡¯s old ancestor is enraged. Heavens, that is the rage of a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert. How terrifying.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Old Ancestor Qiu is one of the three great experts in the second-level Divine Nascent realm. Once he gets angry, the entire Shunan Prefecture will feel the tremors. It¡¯s too scary, too horrifying.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    All the people from Shunan Prefecture trembled in fear.

    Chen Fan kept fleeing frantically.

    Although he could kill Qiu Lang, Old Ancestor Qiu was a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert. He was countless times stronger than even Feng Baiyu. The two were onpletely different levels. So, he was no match for him at all.

    Chen Fan estimated that he could exchange moves with a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert after breaking through to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm.

    And since that wasn¡¯t the case right now, he could only run away. Staying was the same as asking for death.

    ¡°Hold it right there. Thinking of walking away after killing my Qiu n¡¯s people? Not a chance!¡± Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s enraged voice echoed, causing the entire space to shudder.

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    The heavens and earth rumbled as the space seemed to freeze around Chen Fan. It was like Chen Fan had fallen into a quagmire, trapped and unable to escape.

    Old Ancestor Qiu was using his immense power to manipte the primeval qi of heaven and earth, forming a prison of primeval qi.

    If a first-level Divine Nascent realm expert had constructed this prison, Chen Fan would have had no trouble breaking through it, given his own strength.

    However, one created by someone as powerful as Old Ancestor Qiu was a different story. Chen Fan wasn¡¯t even qualified to fight someone as strong as him.

    ¡°Today, you¡¯ll pay with your blood. You must die!¡±

    In Shunan Prefecture, a gray-robed figure appeared in the blink of an eye, crossing the space with incredible speed. He had seeminglypressed thend into an inch and now stood right behind Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression turned desperate. If he couldn¡¯t escape this primeval qi prison quickly, he would die when Old Ancestor Qiu caught up to him.

    ¡°What do I do? What should I do?¡±

    Chen Fan was like an ant on a hot pot, frantically searching for a solution. Every passing moment was critical; dying even a breath could cost him his life.

    ¡°Right!¡±

    A sh of inspiration struck Chen Fan. He tried tomunicate with the small golden person in his be with his divine soul.

    Old Ancestor Qiu was indirectly imprisoning the small golden person, which was essentially an affront to divine authority.

    Indeed, as Chen Fan¡¯s will connected with the small golden person, the small golden person immediately erupted with a divine might.

    <i>Crack, crack.</i>

    The primeval qi prison shattered instantly under the divine power.

    ¡°Hahahaha, you old coot, thinking of killing me? Not happening!¡±

    Chen Fanughed triumphantly as he broke free, pping his Wings of Rain Dragon. The powerful gusts of wind propelled him forward, allowing him to escape several kilometers.

    Old Ancestor Qiu, momentarily stunned by Chen Fan¡¯s unexpected escape, quickly resumed the chase with renewed fury.

    No matter the distance, Old Ancestor Qiu was determined to hunt Chen Fan down and exact his revenge.

    The sky was filled with afterimages as the two figures tore through the air. Despite Chen Fan using the Wings of Rain Dragon, Old Ancestor Qiu matched his speed.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you won¡¯t get away, you little bastard. Give yourself up immediately. I can offer you a quick death, Otherwise, I¡¯ll make you suffer every conceivable torture and make you wail for ten days and nights straight!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s cold gaze stared fixedly at Chen Fan¡¯s back. A divine light shot out from his hand, sting toward Chen Fan.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The divine light was like a dragon, hitting Chen Fan. The attack destroyed half of the feathers on his Wings of Rain Dragon.

    Chen Fan spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood. Staggering, he nearly plummeted from the sky. Old Ancestor Qiu quickly closed the distance between them.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, old coot, I¡¯m not scared of your threats. If you want to kill me, it will depend on whether your old bones can catch up to me,¡± Chen Fan taunted, his voice steady despite the blood at the corner of his lips. He pushed the Wings of Rain Dragon to their limits, desperately fleeing from Old Ancestor Qiu.

    A second-level Divine Nascent realm expert was indeed terrifying. Even a casual attack from Qiu had heavily injured Chen Fan, and he knew better than to risk a direct confrontation.

    ¡°You sharp-tongued little bastard, when I catch you, I¡¯ll pull out your teeth one by one and cut your tongue!¡±

    A chilling light shone in Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s eyes. He unleashed another divine light, but Chen Fan narrowly dodged the attack.

    ¡°Old coot, you want to pull out my teeth and cut my tongue? With those old bones of yours? You¡¯re delusional. Be careful not to breathe yourst while chasing me.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s provocation was relentless, designed to enrage his pursuer further.

    ¡°You damned bastard!¡± Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s fiery rage burned even hotter after hearing Chen Fan¡¯s words.

    He was infuriated. A fiery light rose to the sky. His burning rage could burn through the skies.

    Their Qiu n wasn¡¯t considered too big. Although they could be called an overlord in Shunan Prefecture, they were no big deal across the entire Great Ming Empire.

    They had invested countless resources into nurturing Qiu Lang, hoping he would bring prosperity to the n. With Qiu Lang¡¯s death at Chen Fan¡¯s hands, Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s fury and desperation to avenge his fallen heir were boundless.

    ¡°You damned bastard, just wait till I capture you. Not only do you have to die, but I¡¯ll also track down your n. You will be responsible for dragging down your family. After killing you, I¡¯ll go to the Hong Domain to find your nsmen and kill everyone rted to you!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu gnashed his teeth in hatred, wishing he could tear Chen Fan to pieces to vent his hatred.

 Chapter 616 - Nine-Revolutions Golden Core

    <h4>Chapter 616 - Nine-Revolutions Golden Core</h4>

    ¡°Heck, you old bastard, you¡¯d better not let me escape, or I¡¯ll definitely wipe out your entire n!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s anger red instantly. He couldn''t tolerate anyone threatening his family.

    Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s expression became even colder as he stared fixedly at Chen Fan. He unleashed a divine light that sealed off all possible escape routes.

    Left without a choice, Chen Fan had to brace himself, turn around, andunch a palm strike to defend.

    However, the terrifying force nearly knocked him down from the sky. He spewed arge mouthful of blood, feeling his bones creaking as if on the verge of breaking.

    This was the best Chen Fan could do. Anyone else in his position would have been blown apart, but Chen Fan, like a cockroach, fought and fled tenaciously.

    After what felt like an eternity, Chen Fan seemed to have flown out of Shunan Prefecture¡¯s border. Along the way, Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s constant bombardment had ripped almost all the feathers on Chen Fan¡¯s Wings of Rain Dragon, greatly reducing his speed.

    If he hadn¡¯t fled with all his might, Old Ancestor Qiu would have caught up to him long ago and brought him down.

    Now, Chen Fan was on hisst legs.

    He had fought Qiu Lang with all his strength and had long since exhausted his stamina.

    Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s relentless chase was only increasing his fatigue. His golden core had lost its brilliance and was now very dim.

    Yet, Chen Fan did not dare to stop to recover, as Old Ancestor Qiu was still pursuing him relentlessly.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan saw arge mountain range in the distance; in the skies above that, two peerless beasts were fighting fiercely. Their fight had stolen the brilliance from the sun and the moon.

    The beasts¡¯ aura reached Chen Fan, making his heart pound violently. They were as powerful as Old Ancestor Qiu.

    ¡°Damn it, let¡¯s see if you¡¯ll keep chasing!¡± A fierce glint shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He flew straight toward the battling beasts.

    Despite the extreme danger and the risk of getting caught in their sh¡ªpossibly even killed¡ªChen Fan was at the end of his rope and had no choice but to take this gamble.

    He knew he couldn¡¯t escape unless he did something drastic. Eventually, Old Ancestor Qiu would catch up if he didn¡¯t act.

    Old Ancestor Qiu also saw the two beasts fighting above the mountain range. The powerful auras spread far and wide, momentarily freezing his heart and making him slow down.

    He had expected Chen Fan to either stop or flee in another direction upon seeing the battle. Instead, Chen Fan was darting toward it, making Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s expression darken.

    ¡°Damn it, that little bastard...¡± Realizing Chen Fan¡¯s intentions, he couldn¡¯t help but curse in his heart.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you won¡¯t get away!¡± Old Ancestor Qiu hesitated momentarily but decided to give chase. He was determined not to let him escape.

    ¡°This old coot is really not afraid of death!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly inside.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Not far ahead, two second-level Divine Nascent realm ferocious beasts fought with such intensity that the stars seemed to shatter and the ground sank. Their battle unleashed a terrifying aura, creating storms that swept several kilometers away.

    Chen Fan began to withdraw his aura gradually as he flitted ahead frantically.

    Behind him, Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s expression grew increasingly grim.

    His own powerful aura posed a risk¡ªif it shed with the ferocious beasts¡¯ auras, they might turn their attention to him, leading to a disastrous situation for him.

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! That little bastard is a lunatic. Instead of avoiding the battle, he¡¯s heading straight for them. Is he trying to get himself killed? Damn it!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu feared provoking the beasts and risking his own safety. If he angered them, he might not only fail to kill Chen Fan but could also end up sacrificing his own life. It wasn¡¯t worth the risk.

    Noticing that Old Ancestor Qiu had stopped his pursuit, Chen Fan released a sigh of relief.

    He really didn¡¯t want to rush into the battle zone of the ferocious beasts¡ªit would be like courting death.

    Fortunately, Old Ancestor Qiu was a bit more cautious than him and stopped his pursuit, allowing Chen Fan to breathe a sigh of relief. He immediately withdrew his aurapletely and flitted downward into the mountain range.

    Seeing Chen Fan diving into the mountain range, Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s gaze turned icy.

    ¡°Damned bastard, you won¡¯t get away. You¡¯ll definitely die!¡± Cold killing intent burst out from his eyes. Old Ancestor Qiu turned around and retraced his steps, determined not to let Chen Fan escape so easily.

    He nned to return to Shunan Prefecture, spend a fortune on hiring helpers, and then sweep through the mountain range to flush Chen Fan out and kill him.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t afford to worry about Old Ancestor Qiu finding reinforcements. His immediate priority was to heal his injuries as quickly as possible.

    He moved swiftly through the mountain range, like a ghost, venturing further in.

    Although the deeper regions were home to powerful demonic beasts, the more dangerous the area, the safer it was from pursuers.

    ......

    In a cave, Chen Fanid down a boundary and began recuperating.

    Two dayster, the injuries on Chen Fan were pretty much fully healed.

    ¡°Hunt me down? <i>Hmph</i>, this matter is not over, Qiu n...¡±

    A chilling light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He took out Qiu Lang¡¯s corpse and tossed it into the Heaven Seizing Furnace to refine it.

    Qiu Lang¡¯s bloodline, a mix of Vicious Hell Wolf and a touch of the Wolf God¡¯s power, could increase his power after he refined and absorbed it.

    ¡°All primeval stones, burn!¡±

    To advance his cultivation, Chen Fan needed an enormous amount of energy. Fortunately, he had an ample supply of primeval stones.

    He burned them all in one go, generating a massive amount of energy. It was equivalent to what more than ten Divine Nascent realm experts would need to advance.

    The torrent of energy surged into Chen Fan like a tidal wave, making him swell up and unleashing terrifying fluctuations.

    The rolling energy rushed madly through his meridians like the Yangtze River. Chen Fan channeled his cultivation technique with all his might, pushing the Heaven Seizing Furnace to its limits.

    His aura also erupted in an instant, boiling over.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Chen Fan instantly advanced to the eight-revolution Golden Core realm, but his aura did not stop boiling.

    He had refined not only the trace of Wolf God¡¯s power from Qiu Lang but also burned countless primeval stones. That was enough to propel a Yuanfu realm martial artist to the Nine Revolutions of the Golden Core realm.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura churned and fluctuated like a turbulent stream.

    He put all his effort into refining the energy, progressing toward the nine-revolution Golden Core realm.

    Time passed in a sh, and another three days passed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a gate seemed to burst open inside Chen Fan. His aura erupted, breaking through the boundaries he hadid down.

    Inside Chen Fan, his true primeval energy surged in his meridians as if it had actual substance. It was like numerous thick chains supporting his body, making him mighty like a mountain.

    ¡°Nine-revolution Golden Core... Just one step away from the Divine Nascent realm!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, a fierce light bursting out.

 Chapter 617 - Borrowing the Heavenly Tribulation to Temper Body

    <h4>Chapter 617 - Borrowing the Heavenly Tribtion to Temper Body</h4>

    ¡°Nine-revolution Golden Core... Just one step away from the Divine Nascent realm!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, a stern light flickering within.

    Although he was only one step away from reaching the Divine Nascent realm, crossing that final step was a significant challenge.

    He would have to face the divine nascent tribtion, particrly the wind and fire tribtion targeting one''s divine nascent. A momentarypse in concentration could result in his divine nascent being reduced to ashes, leading to his death.

    The divine nascent tribtion was far stronger than the golden core tribtion.

    Failure to ovee the golden core tribtion could destroy the golden core and ruin one¡¯s cultivation, but they would survive. However, failing the wind and fire tribtion was no different from death.

    If his divine nascent were consumed, there would be no trace of life left.

    This was why many nine-revolution Golden Core or even half-step Divine Nascent realm experts hesitated to take the final step. Theycked the absolute confidence needed to ovee it.

    Chen Fan¡¯s spirit strength was powerful, and his divine nascent was bound to be more powerful than usual. Additionally, he possessed a Dragon Soul Lingzhi, a miraculous treasure that increased his chances of oveing the tribtion.

    Therefore, he wasn¡¯t afraid, but that didn¡¯t mean he was entirely confident.

    He could tell from his golden core tribtion that he would face a mutated heavenly tribtion. It would be much stronger than ordinary heavenly tribtions.

    If anyone else faced his tribtion, they would be annihted from the start.

    Therefore, Chen Fan nned to stay in the nine-revolution Golden Core realm for a while longer to further solidify his foundation. This would improve his chances of oveing the tribtion.

    He could immediately take the final step to form a divine nascent, advance his cultivation, and face the tribtion, but that would have been too risky.

    ¡°Now, I should be able to contend against a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert. <i>Hmph hmph</i>, Qiu n, your nightmare hase!¡± Chen Fan let out a cold chuckle that would send shivers down people¡¯s spines.

    After exiting the cave where he had been cultivating, Chen Fan noticed lightning shing wildly in arge mass of dark clouds nearby.

    Noticing the dense aura of the tribtion clouds, he muttered, ¡°Hmm? Someone is undergoing tribtion? No, some demonic beast is!¡±

    No human would foolishly try to undergo the tribtion in the demonic beasts'' territory.

    Although the demonic beasts would not attack during the tribtion, they would be at their weakest and most vulnerable immediately afterward, making it easy for them to be killed.

    ¡°This is a divine nascent tribtion. Some beast is about to advance into the Divine Nascent realm.¡± Chen Fan could tell that this was an aplished demonic beast trying to ovee its divine nascent tribtion.

    ¡°Hehe, how very interesting. I can borrow the power of the heavenly tribtion to master the Hegemonic Golden Body. Then, with my cultivation and the Hegemonic Golden Body¡¯s power, I¡¯ll definitely be able to contend with a third-level Divine Nascent realm expert.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered as a n formed in his head.

    His Hegemonic Golden Body was just outside the entry stage. Although he had grasped its profound essence, crossing the threshold to fully master it was no easy feat.

    Cultivating the Hegemonic Golden Body was a hundred to a thousand times more challenging than the Myriad Elephants Divine Art.

    Currently, he was on the brink of sess, but without a stroke of fortune¡ªsuch as finding a metal-attributed natural treasure¡ªhe would need three to four more months to break through.

    The demonic beast¡¯s heavenly tribtion could provide the push he needed to make that final leap.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure shed as he flew toward the source of the tribtion. Soon, he saw an enormous demonic beast, emanating bursts of divine nascent aura. It had already condensed its divine nascent and was about to undergo its tribtion.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan immediately plunged into the heavenly tribtion, stirring up chaos in the tribtion clouds above.

    When undergoing a tribtion, it was most taboo to have others around.

    Any person or demonic beast had to face it alone. Whether they intended to help or sabotage, any external interference would provoke a fierce counterattack from the heavenly tribtion.

    This was a test from the heavens for an individual. Anyone who interfered in it would be challenging the Heavenly Dao, and would definitely suffer a bacsh.

    The demonic beast undergoing its tribtion had no time to react before realizing that its tribtion had gone haywire. Waves of chilling aura erupted, making the beast roar in distress.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    The enraged heavenly tribtion unleashed its wrath, sending down streaks of lightning dragons, their fangs and ws drawn out, intent on destroying Chen Fan, the intruder. This was the punishment for defying its authority.

    Chen Fan remained still, channeling the Hegemonic Golden Body Mantra to refine the power of the falling lightning.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Hundreds of lightning snakes swooped down from the tribtion clouds, eager to deal with Chen Fan.

    Facing such a tribtion, even a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert would feel their scalp turn numb. However, Chen Fan remained motionless, letting the lightning strike him.

    The intense explosions above Chen Fan created deadly storms that mmed into him, producing the sound of shing metals. Currently, Chen Fan¡¯s physique was as tough as a Grade-5 treasure.

    As Chen Fan absorbed and refined the lightning tribtion, threads of golden light appeared on his flesh.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Lightning poured down from the tribtion clouds like torrential rain, striking Chen Fan with terrifying force.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    These thunderbolts struck Chen Fan continuously, making sparks fly everywhere and green smoke rise from him.

    The power contained in each lightning bolt was enough to decimate a nine-revolution Golden Core realm supreme expert, but it couldn¡¯t shake Chen Fan at all.

    He allowed these lightning bolts to fall on him like he was taking a bath. He used the endless heavenly tribtion¡¯s lightning to bathe as if it were bathwater. It was a spine-chilling sight.

    Bursts of light shed. Chen Fan absorbed all the divine lightning of the nine heavens and converted it into energy to temper his flesh.

    Golden light flowed over his skin, and each lightning strike was absorbed, providing the nutrients needed for him to master the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    However, the heavenly tribtion seemed to have no intention of ending things like this. Instead, it continued growing stronger. The lightning snakes in the sky became even thicker and scarier.

    What started as lightning the thickness of a bowl increased to the size of a water jar.

    It was as if the lightning were evolving from a snake into a flood dragon, with its power surging to overwhelming levels, intent on devouring Chen Fan in one blow.

    From a distance, the area around Chen Fan was filled with lightning shes, with asional glimpses of golden light amidst the silver bolts.

    Chen Fan was nearly obscured by the divine lightning, his silhouette flickering in and out of view amid the storm.

    In such a horrifying situation, Chen Fan finally crossed the Hegemonic Golden Body¡¯s threshold.

 Chapter 618 - Adversaries Have Come

    <h4>Chapter 618 - Adversaries Have Come</h4>

    A group was rapidly approaching the mountain range.

    A tall and sturdy middle-aged man with a formidable aura said with a smile, ¡°Haha, rest assured, Old Patriarch Qiu. Since Brother Yang and I promised you, we¡¯ll help you find that brat even if we have to turn this mountain range upside down.¡±

    This speaker was the prefecture lord of Shunan Prefecture, Nie Gang. He was in thete-stage, second-level Divine Nascent realm; the number one expert of Shunan Prefecture.

    ¡°Brother Nie is right. That little bastard from Hong Domain is too arrogant. He deserves a thousand deaths for killing one of the three prodigies of our prefecture. With us on the case, he won¡¯t stand a chance of escaping!¡± said the other man. He had a mustache and was smiling so wide that his eyes had be slits.

    The man¡¯s chubby figure and constant smile gave him a resemnce to Laughing Buddha. He was Yang Wanli, the current patriarch of the Yang n, and also in the second-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Old Ancestor Qiu, Nie Gang, and Yang Wanli were the three second-level Divine Nascent realm experts of Shunan Prefecture.

    After Old Ancestor Qiu returned to Shunan Prefecture, he had asked for their help. The Qiu n secured their assistance by paying a hefty price.

    Given that two second-level Divine Nascent realm peerless beasts were in this mountain range, Old Ancestor Qiu would have faced serious danger if he ventured in alone.

    With Nie Gang and Yang Wanli aiding him, those ferocious beasts wouldn¡¯t be able to cause any trouble.

    The group tore through the skies majestically, heading toward the mountain range where Chen Fan was hiding to search the area thoroughly.

    Old Ancestor Qiu wasn¡¯t worried that Chen Fan had run away.

    Old Ancestor Qiu had dispatched two first-level Divine Nascent realm experts to keep watch as soon as he had returned. They would alert him as soon as they saw Chen Fan emerging from the mountain range.

    Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s group was approaching the mountain range with great fanfare, so the two overlords of the mountain range, ferocious beasts in the second-level Divine Nascent realm, sensed them. They charged out of the mountain range, letting out furious roars as a warning.

    ¡°Halt your steps, human, this is our territory!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, mere demonic beasts like you dare to show off!¡± Nie Gangughed coldly before grabbing at the air. The sky let out cracking noises as a palm seal descended, sting toward the two ferocious beasts.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>! Human, you¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    The two peerless ferocious beasts roared furiously. Their demonic qi shot to the skies, and they immediately attacked, tearing Nie Gang¡¯s palm seal apart.

    Nie Gang looked at the two peerless ferocious beasts with his hands behind his back and said, ¡°Lion King, Tiger King, leave this mountain range immediately, and you¡¯ll get to keep your life. Otherwise, don¡¯t me us for being ruthless! It must have taken great effort for you to reach this level; don¡¯t make a mistake now.¡±

    These two peerless ferocious beasts were a Raging mes Mad Lion and a Wind Spirit Demonic Tiger. They were the two beast kings of this mountain range and eachmanded numerous demonic beasts.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, quickly leave now!¡± Yang Wanli also chimed in.

    ¡°Human, you¡¯re undermining my dignity as king!¡± Lion King and Tiger King roared angrily almost simultaneously.

    This mountain range was their territory, and now Nie Gang¡¯s group was actually threatening them to leave. How could they possibly agree to it?

    Although the two peerless ferocious beasts were fighting tooth and nail over the problem of their territories five days ago, now that they were facing outside enemies, they quickly united as one.

    The mes on the Raging mes Mad Lion burned fiercely. A fiendish aura covered heaven and earth, enveloping thends.

    Fierce, knife-like hurricanes swirled around the Wind Spirit Demonic Tiger, with whirlwinds whipping at its feet, exuding a terrifyingly wild energy.

    ¡°It seems like you beasts are looking to die. Fine, I¡¯ll grant your wishes!¡± Old Ancestor Qiu said, bursting with killing intent.

    Five days ago, he had to let Chen Fan go because these beasts had been fighting.

    Now, to drag Chen Fan out from hiding, he had paid a sky-high price and his chest was full of mes of anger that needed to be vented.

    ¡°Brother Nie, Brother Yang, let¡¯s strike and get rid of these beasts!¡±

    ¡°Alright!¡±

    The three second-level Divine Nascent realms sprang into action at once.

    Terrifying streams of force flew toward the Tiger King and Lion King, causing the space to shatter by the inch. It was extremely horrifying.

    The peerless ferocious beasts were not about to back down. With a ferocious roar, they retaliated.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The battle quickly descended into chaos.

    Devastating storms rippled out, ttening the surrounding mountains and tragically catching countless demonic beasts in the crossfire.

    Meanwhile, deep within the mountain range, Chen Fan was using the heavenly tribtion to temper himself. He sensed the terrifying fluctuations at the mountain''s edge and quickly realized that Old Ancestor Qiu had likely returned.

    If Old Ancestor Qiu had the nerve toe back, he had surely brought reinforcements. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t dare make such a move.

    <i>I have to hurry!</i> Chen Fan urged himself as he analyzed the situation.

    The ripples of power he sensed confirmed his fears: Old Ancestor Qiu had enlisted two second-level Divine Nascent realm experts, likely the other powerhouses of Shunan Prefecture.

    Had he not achieved a basic mastery of the Hegemonic Golden Body, facing three second-level Divine Nascent realm experts alone with his nine-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation would have been daunting.

    Although Lion King and Tiger King were fighting the three, Chen Fan knew well that they would not be a match for the trio. Defeat was only a matter of time.

    Chen Fan sat upright in the air and calmed himself. He was like a man on fire.

    The lightning struck him, tearing his skin and flesh open, and causing his flesh and blood tobust.

    The agony was overwhelming, but Chen Fan gritted his teeth, pushing through the pain to break through the threshold of the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    Just as Chen Fan was about to take that final step in the Hegemonic Golden Body, Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s trio suppressed the two peerless ferocious beasts and forced them to retreat in a sorry state.

    Although indignant, the peerless ferocious beasts were no match for the trio. If they continued fighting, there was a high chance they would really get themselves killed.

    Old Ancestor Qiu and the others did not pursue the beasts.

    They knew that cornering these peerless beasts could lead to a suicidal counterattack¡ªan oue none of them could afford. Their focus remained on their true target: Chen Fan.

    That was especially true for Nie Gang and Yang Wanli. They had agreed to assist Old Ancestor Qiu for the rewards, but risking their lives against beast kings was never part of the n.

    Divine Nascent realm experts were very sensitive to tribtions. The subtle fluctuations in the surrounding heaven and earth allowed them to discern who was undergoing the tribtion and even gain insight into their cultivation techniques.

    ¡°Someone is undergoing tribtions!¡±

    ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go take a look!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s trio rushed over, releasing their terrifying second-level Divine Nascent realm auras to deter the demonic beasts.

    The demonic beasts in the mountain range trembled in fear under the pressure, not daring to show themselves.

    Even their king had retreated, so showing themselves now would be no different from courting death.

    Soon, the trio arrived at the ce where Chen Fan was borrowing the powers of the heavenly tribtion to temper his physique.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that little bastard undergoing heavenly tribtion, but this demonic beast,¡± Nie Gang said.

    Yang Wanli¡¯s eyes flickered with surprise. ¡°No, look inside the heavenly tribtion. Someone is in there!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu looked over. A momentter, terrifying killing intent surged from him, and he said, ¡°It¡¯s him! He¡¯s that little beast! I would recognize him even if he turned to ash!¡±

 Chapter 619 - Initial Mastery of Hegemonic Golden Body

    <h4>Chapter 619 - Initial Mastery of Hegemonic Golden Body</h4>

    Outside the range of the heavenly tribtion, Old Ancestor Qiu stared fixedly at Chen Fan, only faintly discernible within the heavenly tribtion. Even if that figure were reduced to ashes, he would still recognize it as Chen Fan.

    ¡°What a daring brat. He actually entered the heavenly tribtion. Isn¡¯t he afraid of getting killed!¡± Nie Gang eximed as a luster shed in his eyes.

    Wearing a smile, Yang Wanli said with slightly narrowed eyes, ¡°This brat could defy the heavens and fight a first-level Divine Nascent realm expert with only seven-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation. His physique must be formidable. He¡¯s likely using the power of the heavenly tribtion to temper his flesh right now.¡±

    ¡°This brat is really something,¡± Nie Gang said, smiling.

    ¡°That abominable brat, I¡¯ll go kill him now!¡± But Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s patience had long since worn thin. The cold, murderous intent in his eyes was enough to make anyone¡¯s scalp tingle.

    Nie Gang said, ¡°Keep calm, Old Patriarch Qiu. You know what the characteristics of a heavenly tribtion are, right? If you enter recklessly, the heavenly tribtion will attack you. You wouldn¡¯t just fail to kill that brat¡ªyou¡¯d be struggling to protect yourself.¡±

    ¡°Brother Nie is right, Old Patriarch Qiu. Don¡¯t be impatient. Since we have found that brat, he won¡¯t be able to escape even if he grows a pair of wings. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡± Yang Wanli chimed in with a smile. From the way he was speaking, it was like Chen Fan was a turtle caught in a jar. Chen Fan¡¯s life would end soon after the heavenly tribtion ended.

    Old Ancestor Qiu suppressed the anger in his heart, nodded, and said, ¡°You are right. I almost let my anger get the better of me andmit a grave mistake. If I barge in there recklessly, I would lose ayer of skin even if I survive!¡±

    A trace of fear shed across Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s eyes.

    He could still remember his heavenly tribtion; it was dreadful. He nearly got struck to death by the lightning.

    If he had rushed in there earlier and angered the heavenly tribtion, the heavens would have rained down heavenly punishment. The losses would have far, far outweighed whatever he would have gained by killing Chen Fan.

    ¡°Rest assured, that brat can¡¯t escape. With us three taking action, he won¡¯t even survive. I¡¯m sure he must be panicking inside right now.¡± Nie Gangughed.

    The group stopped outside the range of the heavenly tribtion and stared at Chen Fan, waiting for the tribtion to end. They would thenunch a thunderous attack on Chen Fan and make him pay a heavy price.

    Naturally, Chen Fan saw Old Ancestor Qiu and the others. However, he did not care about them. His focus was singr: to take that final step and achieve initial mastery over the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    Without it, Nie Gang¡¯s words would prove true¡ªhe¡¯d be a turtle trapped in their jar, with no hope of escape.

    The lightning continued striking for an unbearably long amount of time; finally, the heavenly tribtion showed signs of dissipating.

    Countless more lightning snakes rained down. Then, the rolling tribtion clouds above Chen Fan started dissipating.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Before the tribtion clouds dissipated, they gathered all their power. Countless lightning snakesbined in the air and turned into a roaring lightning dragon, charging Chen Fan.

    ¡°Whether I will sessfully take this final half step depends on this!¡±

    Chen Fan gritted his teeth, looking at the sky.

    The power within the lightning dragon dwarfed anything he had faced so far. It was a force of nature, raw and unstoppable, and the threat of death loomedrge. The heavens themselves seemed intent on destroying him.

    But there was no room for doubt. Now was the moment to defy the odds. He needed to make use of this final lightning dragon to bring his other leg over the threshold of the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The lightning dragon swallowed Chen Fan with a roar. An explosion boomed, forming a lightning storm that ruthlessly struck Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan only felt as if he was about to fall apart. His organs were all smashed to pieces. Under the horrifying power of the lightning, his entire being was about to turn into powder and scatter into the air.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously. He pushed the Hegemonic Golden Body Mantra to its limit, absorbing the lightning dragon in a desperate attempt to take his final half-step.

    He had to seed or die trying.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Under the impact of the boundless berserk energy, Chen Fan finally crossed the Hegemonic Golden Body¡¯s threshold. A resplendent golden light erupted from him.

    After absorbing the energy of the final lightning dragon, Chen Fan¡¯s physique finally leaped forward. He had finally gained initial mastery of the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    If the max level of Hegemonic Golden Body was level 100, then Chen Fan had just reached level 1.

    Although he had just crossed the threshold, the toughness of his physique had undergone another metamorphosis. He could now crush a Grade-5 treasure with his bare hands. It was extremely terrifying.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Chen Fan let out a furious roar. The sonic wave rolled out, sweeping across the surrounding five kilometers, shattering theyer of clouds in the sky.

    Despite the heavenly tribtion¡¯s brutal strikes, Chen Fan¡¯s injuries healed almost instantly as he crossed the threshold of the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    His terrifying recovery speed left Old Ancestor Qiu and the others staring wide-eyed and mouths agape.

    Chen Fan stood like a golden god of war in the air, wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd as he faced Old Ancestor Qiu and the others. His powerful fighting intent erupted like a zing me.

    If he had failed to master the Hegemonic Golden Body, he would have turned and fled without hesitation. But now...

    ¡°Abominable little bastard, let¡¯s see where you¡¯ll run to today. This ce will be your burial ce!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu snarled, his cold, stern gaze fixed on Chen Fan, intent on killing him with a thousand cuts. He was surprised when he realized that Chen Fan had advanced to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm in just five days.

    If it were any other nine-revolution Golden Core, Old Ancestor Qiu wouldn¡¯t have given them a second thought¡ªa single breath would have been enough to end them. But Chen Fan was different.

    Chen Fan could kill a first-level Divine Nascent realm expert with only seven-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation. Now that he had advanced into the nine-revolution Golden Core realm, hisbat strength must have improved by leaps and bounds. Chen Fan might even rival Old Ancestor Qiu himself.

    Still, he was not afraid, as he had three second-level Divine Nascent realm experts on his side. No matter how monstrous Chen Fan was, with theirbined strength, Chen Fan couldn¡¯t possibly defeat them all.

    ¡°Burial ce...¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly. Killing intent also appeared in his eyes, and he said, ¡°You¡¯re right about one thing, but this isn¡¯t my burial ground¡ªit¡¯s yours!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, are all Hong Domain martial artists so arrogant? Brat, it seems you haven¡¯t grasped the reality of your situation. I admit that you¡¯re a monstrous genius, being able to kill a first-level Divine Nascent realm expert like Qiu Lang when you were only at the seven-revolution Golden Core realm.

    ¡°And now you¡¯ve even advanced to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm. If I had to fight you solo, I¡¯m afraid I might not be able to bring you down.

    ¡°But now, with the three of us attacking together, no matter how monstrous you are, it¡¯s impossible for you to make it out alive. Let me give you a piece of advice. Give yourself up obediently. Save us the trouble, and spare yourself from suffering,¡± Nie Gang said confidently, looking at Chen Fan with a smile.

    However, Chen Fan raised his arm, pointing the Purgatory Divine Halberd straight at the three of them, and said coldly, ¡°Cut the nonsense, you bunch of trash. Are you ready to die?¡±

    The smile on Nie Gang¡¯s face disappeared. A terrifying chilling intent erupted from him.

    Even though Yang Wanli was still wearing a smile on his face, the killing intent in his eyes became even more sinister and cold.

 Chapter 620 - Unrivaled

    <h4>Chapter 620 - Unrivaled</h4>

    As Chen Fan¡¯s voice fell, the entire space turned somber.

    His arrogance had infuriated Nie Gang and Yang Wanli.

    They had onlye to help search for Chen Fan¡¯s whereabouts after getting paid by the Qiu n. They hadn¡¯t nned on taking action, expecting Old Ancestor Qiu to handle things.

    However, they both wanted to skin Chen Fan alive and break his bones.

    ¡°You abominable brat, it seems like you¡¯ve gotten too used to being arrogant in the Hong Domain and brought it with you to Shunan Prefecture. In that case, don¡¯t me us for bullying you with numbers!¡± Nie Gang said coldly, his eyes shing with killing intent.

    Chen Fan curled his lips and said disdainfully, ¡°Old bastard, no need for such grandstanding. Just say you are afraid of fighting me alone. Why make excuses? What a joke.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words made Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s expressions turn ugly.

    <i>¡®This sharp-tongued little bastard!¡¯</i>

    Old Ancestor Qiu growled, ¡°No point in wasting words on this little bastard. Let¡¯s just strike together, capture him, and cripple his cultivation. I¡¯ll relish torturing you, slicing off your flesh piece by piece before snapping and ripping out your bones!¡±

    ¡°Shamelessly boasting old bastard, I¡¯ll smash your bones right now, die!¡± Chen Fan sneered coldly. He charged toward Old Ancestor Qiu with overwhelming momentum.

    ¡°You beast, cease your arrogance. Today is the day you meet your doom!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s eyes zed with killing intent as his cultivation erupted, producing rumbling sounds that revealed its immense depth.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A judge¡¯s pen /2/ABUIABACGAAgi7DO6gUo8JClygMwjAY4yQQ.jpg[/ref] about one foot long appeared in Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s hand. It was a Grade-5 treasure, and it shot toward Chen Fan, piercing through space.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± A cold snort rang before Old Ancestor Qiu.

    A palm reached out and grabbed Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s weapon. A cold voice rang out.

    ¡°Old bastard, not only will you die, but your n will also face annihtion because of you!¡±

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    A golden light shed on Chen Fan¡¯s skin, and he crushed the weapon.

    ¡°What?¡± Old Ancestor Qiu was struck with terror, barely able to keep himself together.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan ignored his reaction and sent a palm strike toward Old Ancestor Qiu, shattering the space.

    Old Ancestor Qiu quickly raised a wall of primeval qi in front of him, but Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike sted through it effortlessly, as if it were butter or tofu, stopping it only for a moment.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Old Ancestor Qiu was thrown back, blood spewing from his mouth as he crashed through a mountain with a resounding rumble.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s eyeballs nearly popped out of their sockets.

    Old Ancestor Qiu was very old, so his vitality had declined greatly, but he was still a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert, a figure of immense power. His swift defeat sent chills down their spines.

    They had expected Chen Fan to be stronger after advancing to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm; however, the reality was that he was so strong now that second-level Divine Nascent realm experts seemed like kids before him.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice echoed, making Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s hearts tighten. ¡°You two, there¡¯s no bad blood between us. It makes sense that that old fool wants to kill me¡ªI ughtered that little bastard from his n. But we have no feud, yet you still want to interfere. Hmph, don¡¯t me me for what happens next.¡±

    This was supposed to be an easy mission. All they had to do was to support Old Ancestor Qiu and get paid handsomely. Now, it was clear that things were far from easy.

    However, being ruthless figures, Nie Gang and Yang Wanli weren¡¯t the type to back down. Regret was pointless now¡ªthey had already angered Chen Fan. Even if they tried to withdraw, Chen Fan would likely not let them go.

    They had only one recourse: join forces and kill Chen Fan.

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli exchanged nces. Chilling light flickered in their eyes. They shouted coldly, ¡°Kill!¡±

    Almost simultaneously, the two charged towards Chen Fan from opposite sides.

    They were middle-aged and in their prime, with vitality and auras far surpassing Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s.

    Nie Gang, in particr, was the prefecture lord of Shunan Prefecture and ate-stage second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivator. He lived up to his reputation as the top expert. Armed with a great ax, he charged at Chen Fan, aiming a powerful sh.

    ¡°Upright Execution!¡±

    Nie Gang channeled his strength to the limit, pouring his true primeval into his great ax and chopped down. Time seemed to freeze, and the world fell silent.

    Chen Fan had defeated Old Ancestor Qiu in just a single move, disying unimaginably terrifying strength. Nie Gang didn¡¯t dare hold back. He wasn¡¯t in a position to be cautious.

    Boom, boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom!

    The great ax chopped down violently. The air was instantly torn apart. It was as if this ax would chop off the sky pir that supported heaven and earth, and even the universe would crash as a result.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    Suddenly, Nie Gang saw a massive hand emerging from Chen Fan¡ªa golden, god-like palm, overwhelmingly powerful. It domineeringly ignored the great ax¡¯s sharpness and reached out.

    The palm caught the de of Nie Gang¡¯s great ax and made it crack instantly.

    Chen Fan had demonstrated the full power of the Hegemonic Golden Body, crushing a Grade-5 treasure effortlessly with his bare hands. He himself was the ultimate weapon.

    ¡°All rise ends in a fall.¡±

    Chen Fan stepped forward, and his voice resounded as he exerted his great strength.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The great ax shattered. Nie Gang was thrown backward, falling repeatedly.

    However, the terrifying force from Chen Fan¡¯s punch pushed Nie Gang ten kilometers out, his blood painting the sky.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan raised his hand and thrust his palm to the side.

    The air exploded violently, like gunpowder igniting. Yang Wanli¡¯s saber shattered into countless fragments.

    <i>Chi, chi.</i>

    Some of those fragments pierced Yang Wanli and also sent him flying. Hisplexion turned ghastly white, and the perpetual smile he wore like the Laughing Buddha was reced by a look of horror.

    Horrified!

    Now, whether it was Nie Gang, Yang Wanli, or anyone else, their gazes toward Chen Fan were filled with unbridled fear.

    Chen Fan had defeated Old Ancestor Qiu and the others easily in a sh.

    None of the three second-level Divine Nascent realm experts could withstand Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    Terrifying!

    It was too terrifying!

    1. ?

 Chapter 621 - Qiu Clan Completely Wiped Out

    <h4>Chapter 621 - Qiu n Completely Wiped Out</h4>

    The Qiu n martial artists waiting on the sidelines exchanged confused nces, unsure of what to do.

    Everyone was stupefied.

    ¡°You wanted to kill me. Since that is the case, I¡¯ll make sure every one of you pays with your lives,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    The two first-level Divine Nascent realm Qiu n martial artists were the first to return to their senses. They roared, ¡°Run! Quickly retreat.¡±

    They sprang into action, fleeing for their lives.

    The remaining Qiu n martial artists scattered like crows as they realized the gravity of the situation. But just as they had fled a short distance, they exploded.

    Chen Fan flickered around them like a ghost. With a single, light palm strike, he tore them apart.

    Chen Fan could fight second-level Divine Nascent realm experts with his cultivation alone. Combined with his newly acquired Hegemonic Golden Body, hisbat strength had surged to a levelparable to a third-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    These Qiu n martial artists, not even in the Divine Nascent realm, stood no chance against Chen Fan¡¯s onught.

    He was like the autumn wind sweeping the falling leaves. Aside from the two first-level Divine Nascent realm experts of the Qiu n, Chen Fan annihted all the other Nine Revolutions martial artists, leaving no survivors.

    A furious roar suddenly shook the heavens.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    In the distance, a pile of mountain rubble exploded violently. A disheveled, blood-streaked figure emerged from the debris¡ªit was Old Ancestor Qiu.

    Old Ancestor Qiu was seething with rage, as Chen Fan had utterly decimated the Qiu n¡¯s forces. His chest rose and fell violently, shocking killing intent spreading out from him.

    ¡°Ah, you bastard, you beast, you deserve to die! You should die a thousand times for your sins!¡± Old Ancestor Qiu roared angrily. mes of rage burned in his eyes.

    ¡°Old Patriarch Qiu, let¡¯s strike together. We¡¯ve made a blunder. This little beast is too powerful for any of us to handle alone. You two, join in as well!¡±

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli came closer, their expressions grave.

    They made a huge loss on this trip, having met such a tough nut like Chen Fan. Now, they were even at risk of losing their lives.

    ¡°Kill!¡± The trio struck out at once.

    They all understood that there was no path of retreat. Their only option was to join forces and fight with all they had. Otherwise, what awaited them was disaster.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The five Divine Nascent realm experts took action.

    Five terrifying killing techniques erupted, shocking heaven and earth and shaking the sun and the moon. It was like they would destroy the world. The killing techniques sted toward Chen Fan fiercely.

    ¡°Joining forces? Will that change a thing?¡±

    Facing the five people¡¯s attacks from the front and back, Chen Fan showed no sign of fear.

    With a powerful stomp, Chen Fan shook heaven and earth. He unleashed the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, his three heads and six arms moving in perfect synchronization.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The terrifying force of his fists swept across thend, shaking the heavens and causing the stars to fall. The ground cracked open, and an overwhelming aura seemed to force everyone to kneel in submission.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying explosions boomed, and terrifying qi waves swept out. Both parties¡¯ attacks collided fiercely, generating intense explosions that made the space produce cracking noises.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s mastery of the Hegemonic Golden Body had elevated his physical strength to an extraordinary level. Whenbined with the Undefeated King¡¯s Fist, his attacks became incredibly fierce, easily overpowering the assaults from his five opponents.

    Old Ancestor Qiu and hispanions, despite being second-level Divine Nascent realm experts with immense power, were knocked back repeatedly by Chen Fan¡¯s attacks. Their veins bulged as they roared in frustration, but they were powerless against his relentless assault.

    The two first-level Divine Nascent realm Qiu n martial artists fared even worse.

    Under the full force of Chen Fan¡¯s attacks, they vomitedrge amounts of blood and were heavily injured almost instantly. They could no longer continue fighting.

    ¡°Die!¡± A murderous light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Murderous qi seeped out, and a terrifying aura swept out. Chen Fan sent out palm strikes at the two first-level Divine Nascent realm martial artists.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A gigantic golden palm smashed toward the two ruthlessly, determined to crush them into a paste and prevent their divine nascent from escaping.

    ¡°Little bastard, you dare!¡±

    Old Ancestor Qiu was enraged at the sight, but he was powerless to save them. He could only watch as the gigantic golden palms smacked down.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two first-level Divine Nascent realm experts were already heavily injured. No matter how much they roared and attacked frantically, it waspletely useless. The gigantic golden palm descended, suppressing them, and leveled a mountain.

    Meandering cracks appeared on the earth.

    A huge golden palm print pressed into the ground. Only a gnarly-looking meat paste remained at the center of the palm. The two first-level Divine Nascent realm experts from the Qiu n died tragically on the spot.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Old Ancestor Qiu was going crazy from anger.

    First, their Qiu n¡¯s genius, Qiu Lang, was killed by Chen Fan, and now, the other core members he brought here were also massacred. Even the two first-level Divine Nascent realm experts had died.

    ¡°No need to roar, old bastard. It will be your turn soon!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure shed, blowing up the air. He arrived in front of the trio in the blink of an eye and swept the Purgatory Divine Halberd horizontally, nearly chopping them in half from the waist. The trio flew backward at the same time, spewing blood.

    The three second-level Divine Nascent realm experts werepletely powerless in front of Chen Fan. Their protective true primeval were as fragile as paper,pletely useless.

    Fresh blood sprayed across the sky. The trio¡¯splexions were ghastly pale.

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s indifferent and confident attitude was nowhere to be seen. Their faces were full of horror.

    They had really boarded a pirate ship for the sake of some minor benefits, unable to get off. Most importantly, this rotten boat was showing signs of capsizing, filling them with endless regret.

    If they had known Chen Fan would be so powerful, they would never have agreed to help.

    Now, not only were they likely to get killed, even their ns might suffer a cmity.

    Chen Fan immediately gave chase imposingly, catching up to Old Ancestor Qiu in a sh and said indifferently, ¡°Old coot, the biggest mistake you ever made was trying to hunt me down. Now, go to hell! Don¡¯t worry, the entire Qiu n will follow behind you very soon!¡±

    As his voice fell, Chen Fan thrust the Purgatory Divine Halberd toward Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s head.

    ¡°I can¡¯t ept this!¡±

    That was the final roar Old Ancestor Qiu let out, but it was useless. The Purgatory Divine Halberd instantly scrambled his head along with his divine nascent.

    Old Ancestor Qiu, an expert of a generation who had dominated Shunan Prefecture for over a century as a second-level Divine Nascent realm expert, had perished.

    With this, all the Qiu n martial artists who hade were annihted. No one was left.

 Chapter 622 - Life is Like a Dream

    <h4>Chapter 622 - Life is Like a Dream</h4>

    When Chen Fan killed Old Ancestor Qiu, the corners of Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s eyes twitched intensely, theirplexions turning pale with horror.

    Old Ancestor Qiu, an expert who had dominated Shunan Prefecture for centuries, was dead, just like that.

    Before he had even reached the Divine Nascent realm, Old Ancestor Qiu was already a great figure of Shunan Prefecture.

    And now, Chen Fan had killed him so easily. The two of them couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of sympathy, knowing they might share the same fate.

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli were no longer as indifferent and confident as before. Their sense of superiority and their disregard for Chen Fan had vanished. With forced smiles, they said, ¡°It¡¯s a misunderstanding, little brother. This is all a misunderstanding.¡±

    Fear gripped them.

    Chen Fan was a devil.

    They had never seen such a monstrous genius. Three Divine Nascent realm experts had worked together to fight him, but he had dealt with them all with just his nine-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation.

    He was too incredible!

    And too terrifying!

    Their brief sympathy for Old Ancestor Qiu¡¯s tragic death quickly turned to hatred.

    If Old Ancestor Qiu hadn¡¯t dragged them into this mess, they wouldn¡¯t be in this humiliating position, groveling for mercy.

    ¡°Misunderstanding?¡± Chen Fan chuckled, his voice dripping with ridicule. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    Earlier, they had looked down on him, treating him like an ant they could crush at any moment.

    Now, they were iming it was all a misunderstanding. They were just afraid and wanted to beg for mercy. Did they really think the world worked that way?

    ¡°I had no feud with you, but you joined hands with that old bastard to kill me. Now that you know you¡¯re no match for me, you¡¯re saying this is all a misunderstanding? Did you think I would let you go just because you said it was a misunderstanding?¡±

    As Chen Fan neared the end of his sentence, his voice turned icy, and a terrifying killing intent surged out.

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s hearts pounded under Chen Fan¡¯s oppressive aura, an intense pressure suffocating them.

    Nie Gang revealed an ugly smile and said, ¡°Little brother, this matter is our fault. We made a mistake because that old bastard deceived us. We¡¯re willing to apologize and offer you a satisfactorypensation.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, it¡¯s all because of that damned old bastard. He truly deserved to die.¡± Yang Wanli agreed, his forehead covered in sweat.

    ¡°Apologize? Compensate? Toote! Chen Fan shook his head coldly, closing in on them step by step. ¡°The moment you attacked me, your death was already certain!¡±

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s expressions changed drastically. Their gazes flickered as they kept retreating.

    ¡°Little brother, why force us into a corner? We already know our fault and are willing topensate you for our mistakes. Do you really have to drive us to our deaths?¡± Nie Gang said.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and replied, ¡°Drive you to your death? What a joke! Would you have let me go if I weren¡¯t this strong? None of us are idiots. If admitting fault andpensating aftermitting wrong worked, what use do we have for martial prowess!¡±

    ¡°So, you mean to kill us or die trying?¡± Nie Gang¡¯s voice turned cold.

    ¡°Kill you or die trying?¡± Chen Fan scoffed coldly, shaking his head. With a look of disdain, he added, ¡°Are pieces of trash like you worthy?¡±

    Chen Fan took a decisive step forward, his majestic aura pressing down on them.

    Ruthlessness shed across Nie Gang and Yang Wanli¡¯s eyes. Sincepensating Chen Fan would not work and Chen Fan was determined to kill them, they immediately abandoned any pretense of begging for forgiveness.

    ¡°Since that is the case, little bastard, we¡¯ll fight you!¡±

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli unleashed their full power. There was no other option; they had to fight Chen Fan with everything they had, risking their lives.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Their resolve ignited their auras, which boiled violently as they tapped into their true primeval.

    ¡°Today... You¡¯ll die!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were icy. Killing intent swept out from him. He would never show mercy to his enemies.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan unleashed his full strength. The Purgatory Divine Halberd gleamed with a deadly light.

    Nie Gang and Yang Wanli suffered heavy injuries again. The strong odor of blood filled the air as their fresh blood spattered.

    Despite them both going all out and putting up a desperate fight, it was useless in front of Chen Fan.

    An incense stick¡¯s worth of timeter, Chen Fan managed to kill Nie Gang and Yang Wanli.

    With a cold smile, Chen Fan flew off toward Shunan Prefecture.

    ......

    In Shunan Prefecture, the Nie, Yang, and Qiu ns were the three strongest ns.

    Their power wasn¡¯t just due to having the most Divine Nascent realm experts; each of these ns also boasted second-level Divine Nascent realm experts among their ranks.

    Nie n!

    Suddenly, a gigantic golden palm descended from the sky and came crashing down. The air exploded, shocking most of the Nie n members and creating a buzz in their ears, leaving them dazed.

    ¡°Who dares toe to our Nie n and act so recklessly? Are they seeking death?¡±

    The Nie n¡¯s Divine Nascent realm experts rose into the sky almost immediately. Seeing the gigantic golden palm, their expressions immediately darkened. Theyunched attacks one after another.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their attacks proved futile. The immense golden palm smashed down violently, causing the experts to vomit blood.

    ¡°Nie n dared to join hands with the Qiu n to kill me. You all deserve death!¡±

    Chen Fan appeared in the skies above the Nie n like a god and attacked again.

    The attack leveled the Nie npoundpletely. All Nie n experts died horribly. Chen Fan seized their wealth, which they had umted over thousands of years.

    The same scene yed out at the Yang n.

    Amidst miserable screams and wails, Chen Fan wiped out the prestigious n that had dominated Shunan Prefecture for millennia.

    The Yang n¡¯s Divine Nascent realm experts were like ants in front of Chen Fan.

    He even killed the so-called prodigy from Yang n with a single p, as if swatting a fly.

    Lastly, it was the Qiu n¡¯s turn.

    As Qiu n members awaited good news from Old Ancestor Qiu, disaster struck. A massive golden palm descended from the sky, bombarding the Qiu n mansion and cracking the earth open.

    Chen Fan had already dealt with their Divine Nascent realm experts in the forest. So, unlike the Nie and Yang ns, which offered slight resistance, the Qiu n fell powerless.

    After the Qiu, Nie, and Yang ns were wiped out and their great fortune was taken, Chen Fan left. No one could or dared to stop him.

    The people of Shunan Prefecture recognized Chen Fan.

    They knew that Old Ancestor Qiu had spent a fortune to hire Nie Gang and Yang Wanli, both second-level Divine Nascent realm experts, to support him. Chen Fan''s return to Shunan Prefecture without Nie Gang and the others made the situation clear.

    ¡°How terrifying, it¡¯s only been five days. Five days ago, Old Ancestor Qiu chased this man away. Now he''s returned and destroyed the three great ns. Old Ancestor Qiu and the others must have met a terrible fate."

    ¡°What a ruthless character! The Nie n and Yang n, really... They sacrificed everything for trivial gain."

    "Good! The three great ns are gone, and Nie Gang and the others are dead. Shunan Prefecture belongs to us now."

    ¡°......¡±

    The destruction of the three great ns instantly shook the entire Shunan Prefecture, setting off a terrifying storm.

    No one could have predicted that Qiu Bao''s insults to Hong Domain martial artists would trigger events leading to the fall of the three great ns. Life truly resembled a dream.

 Chapter 623 - Meeting Qiu Yuexin Again

    <h4>Chapter 623 - Meeting Qiu Yuexin Again</h4>

    Chen Fan followed the ancient path trodden by generations of top geniuses and made his way toward the True Martial Academy.

    Though he chose to walk rather than fly, he moved swiftly.

    In just three months, he crossed the Spring Sea Domain, Celestial Star Domain, and Great Wilderness Domain. He experienced the local customs of variousnds and had a taste of the martial arts ethos of numerous empires.

    It was better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books. Chen Fan learned a lot during these three months.

    He experienced many trials and tribtions along the way.

    The opening of the True Martial Academy set off a terrifying storm across the entire eastern continent. Countless young geniuses embarked on the ancient roads toward the True Martial Academy.

    Naturally, fights were inevitable along the way.

    Chen Fan had also experienced a lot of killings in these three months.

    The further he went, the stronger the opponents he came across were.

    Despite his power rivaling a third-level Divine Nascent expert, he began to reach the limits of his current strength. This realization made Chen Fan eager to advance to the Divine Nascent realm.

    While his third-level Divine Nascentbat prowess would make him an apex expert in the Great Chu Empire, it barely stood out on this ancient road.

    ¡°After three months of umtion, I¡¯m now seventy to eighty percent confident in oveing the wind and fire tribtion. With the Dragon Soul Lingzhi, my sess rate hits 100%. I need to break through to Divine Nascent as soon as possible.¡± A light of wisdom shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Over the past three months, Chen Fan had been continuously consolidating his cultivation realm and strengthening his foundation. Now, he felt fully confident in his ability to reach Divine Nascent and weather the tribtion.

    He could have taken this step three months ago butckedplete confidence then.

    The wind and fire tribtion that targeted one¡¯s divine nascent was very terrifying. Without absolute certainty, Chen Fan did not dare to act recklessly.

    After all, failure would leave no room for retreat.

    Chen Fan came to a mountain range. ording to a map of the ancient road he had obtained, after passing through this mountain range, he would enter the Blue Dragon Domain. It was one of the top ten domains in the eastern continent, far surpassing the Hong Domain in power.

    He looked at his map. A total of eight ancient roads led to the True Martial Academy. Maps for each ancient road were for sale. This wasn''t the first time the Academy had opened its doors to recruit disciples, so people had long since mapped out the routes.

    Whenever this time came around, people would start peddling maps.

    However, not all vendors sold the same map; the level of detail varied. The detailed ones were costly but indicated important sites like ruins.

    Chen Fan''s map wasn''t the most detailed, as he saw no need to overspend on information about ruins. After all, if they had anything good, it was likely that the others had already plundered them.

    ¡°Beyond that mountain range is the Blue Dragon Domain. There¡¯s a big city ahead, called the ck me City. I can stop there and rest, but...¡±

    Chen Fan looked at the mountain range ahead of him, a bright light shing across his eyes.

    ¡°Whatever, I¡¯ll find a safe ce in this mountain range to break through to the Divine Nascent realm first.¡±

    After making up his mind, Chen Fan continued walking ahead.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    A burst of intense fluctuations swept over from the mountain forest. Soon after, the clouds and winds in the sky roared with frenzy.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying saber light swept across the sky, narrowly missing Chen Fan and slicing past him.

    The dense forest split in half from the force of the saber qi.

    Someone dashed out from the direction of the saber qi. As Chen Fan looked closer, he recognized Qiu Yuexin, one of the top geniuses of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation.

    Chen Fan remembered meeting Qiu Yuexin several times on Hidden Dragon Ind and had a favorable impression of her.

    However, she now looked incredibly distressed. Her dress was torn, and wounds marred her snow-white skin, evoking sympathy from anyone who saw her.

    Qiu Yuexin was renowned as the most beautiful among the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation. She was like a fairy, with snow-white skin that seemed incredibly fragile. Now that wounds marred her skin, how could one possibly not feel sorry for her?

    Soon after, a group of ten martial artists appeared. All were in the first-level Divine Nascent realm, wearing identical uniforms with a golden dragon embroidered on their chests.

    ¡°Qiu Yuexin, hand over your Sky Dragon Token, or you won¡¯t escape death today!¡±

    The group leader¡¯s cultivation level was at peak first-level Divine Nascent realm. He was tall and big, wielding a shiny saber. His presence exuded the menace of a bandit, clearly a ruthless character.

    ¡°The Dragon God Army is conducting business here. Anyone not involved should leave immediately, or we¡¯ll kill you without mercy!¡± This peak first-level Divine Nascent realm group leader saw Chen Fan and immediately shouted, dismissing him as a mere nine-revolution Golden Core realm expert.

    As Qiu Yuexin fled at high speed, she spotted Chen Fan and recognized him immediately.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°Oh ho, so he¡¯s not an outsider. They even know each other. In that case, you can also go to hell!¡± The leader immediately assumed they were aplices and attacked Chen Fan.

    The terrifying saber light tore through heaven and earth. Facing this attack, even an ordinary second-level Divine Nascent realm expert would have to avoid it.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression darkened. He grabbed the oing terrifying saber light and crushed it.

    ¡°Oh, interesting, again!¡±

    The leader was slightly shaken, but he immediately sneered coldly and unleashed an even more formidable attack.

    ¡°Courting death!¡± Chen Fan spat out two words coldly. He didn¡¯t dodge or evade; instead, he smashed the iing saber light to pieces and appeared in front of the leader in an instant, reaching for his neck.

    This leader¡¯s expression changed drastically, unable to believe that a mere nine-revolution Golden Core possessed such tremendous strength. He tried to retreat immediately.

    However, how could he possibly escape from Chen Fan with his insignificant strength?

    As soon as he moved, Chen Fan grabbed hold of his neck and lifted him like he was a chick.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°Damned bastard, you¡¯re looking to die! Quickly let go of Commander Wang!¡±

    ¡°Bastard, you dare to oppose our Dragon God Army? You must be courting death. You deserve to die a thousand times for your sin!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    When the group of Dragon God Army members saw that, cold killing intent immediately appeared on their faces. They shouted angrily one after another. Murderous qi swept out, looking iparably domineering.

 Chapter 624 - Dragon God Army, Sky Dragon Token

    <h4>Chapter 624 - Dragon God Army, Sky Dragon Token</h4>

    ¡°Bastard, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Even though Chen Fan had a firm grip on his neck, Commander Wang¡¯s face remained fierce. He raised his saber and aimed a deadly strike at Chen Fan¡¯s head.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly and crushed the saber light. He unleashed his strength through his palm, driving it into Commander Wang and shattering his dantian.

    ¡°Ah, bastard, you crippled me!¡± Commander Wang¡¯splexion turned pale. His gaze became iparably resentful, and he roared angrily, ¡°Attack, kill him, kill him for me!¡±

    ¡°Bastard, how dare you cripple Commander Wang¡¯s cultivation?! You have made an enemy out of our Dragon God Army. You¡¯re dead meat! You¡¯ve sinned greatly. No one in heaven or earth can save you now, you damned bastard!¡±

    ¡°Attack, kill this bastard. He needs to learn the price of opposing the Dragon God Army!¡±

    ¡°Kill! This damned bastard, I¡¯ll tear him apart and turn him into meat paste for the dogs!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The other Dragon God Army members charged at Chen Fan menacingly.

    A first-level Divine Nascent realm vicemander leaped into the air, appearing behind Chen Fan in an instant. His legshed out like a whip, generating a powerful gust.

    This kick could even smash apart a mountain.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan did not bother trying to dodge at all, letting the vicemander¡¯s kicknd squarely on his back.

    <i>Crack!</i>

    To everyone¡¯s shock, Chen Fan remained still. Instead, the vicemander¡¯s leg bones cracked painfully, and he let out a series of miserable screams.

    Chen Fan¡¯s physique had be incredibly tough after sessfully learning the Hegemonic Golden Body. He could easily crush a Grade-5 treasure now.

    The vicemander¡¯s kick was like throwing an egg at a rock¡ªhe had only himself to me.

    Holding Commander Wang¡¯s neck, Chen Fan used him as a weapon, smashing him into the screaming vicemander.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The collision was explosive, and both figures disintegrated into a mist of blood.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Attacks from the other Dragon God Army members rained down on Chen Fan.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan shouted, unleashing his true primeval and making the air heat up.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Like a humanoid tank, Chen Fan plowed through the storm of attacks and appeared in front of a Dragon God Army member. He struck downward with a powerful palm.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    This member¡¯s head sank to his stomach. All his bones broke from the impact, his divine nascent destroyed by the overwhelming force. He couldn¡¯t even scream before he met his end.

    ¡°Bastard, do you want our Dragon God Army to chase you down until you are dead? You damned bastard, how dare you kill our people. Nowhere will be safe for you, even if you flee to the ends of the world!¡±

    The remaining Dragon God Army members looked on in fear, their arrogance melting away in the face of Chen Fan¡¯s brutal methods.

    To them, a nine-revolution Golden Core realm martial artist was like an ant or a sheep¡ªinsignificant and unable to make a dent.

    However, this particr nine-revolution Golden Core, Chen Fan, was too terrifying. To him, killing them was effortless. Themander and vicemander of their squad couldn¡¯t even put up a fight and were quickly killed.

    And Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying physique left them in shock, their eyes nearly popping out of their heads.

    ¡°The Dragon God Army is nothing!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold gaze swept over.

    Immediately, these Dragon God Army members felt as if they were being targeted by a ferocious beast. Their muscles tightened, and their hair stood on end.

    ¡°Worthless dregs like you want to chase me down? I¡¯ll kill however many of you thate after me!¡±

    As his voice fell, Chen Fan rushed toward the Dragon God Army members like a tiger pouncing into a herd of sheep. It was as if he were tearing them apart with his bare hands. These first-level Divine Nascent realm warriors were no match for him.

    In just a few moments, Chen Fan had dealt with them all.

    Meanwhile, Qiu Yuexin watched in shock as Chen Fan decimated them.

    She knew Chen Fan was very powerful. After all, back then on the Hidden Dragon Ind, Chen Fan defied the heavens and killed a Divine Nascent realm corpse demon alone with only seven-revolution Golden Core realm cultivation.

    At that time, Chen Fan had already disyed an invincible spirit.

    However, that corpse demon was nothing before the Dragon God Army members.

    They were geniuses from various domains, outstanding figures among the other first-level Divine Nascent realm experts. Every one of them was ten times stronger than the white-bone corpse demon.

    Seeing Chen Fan kill them as easily as chopping vegetables was a heavy blow to Qiu Yuexin.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    Chen Fan reached out and waved his hand in front of Qiu Yuexin¡¯s face.

    ¡°Ah?¡± Qiu Yuexin snapped out of her shock and hurriedly replied, ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine. I owe it all to you. Without your help, I might have...¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand and said, ¡°No need for thanks. We¡¯re both from the Hong Domain and we know each other. I couldn¡¯t just stand by and watch you die. Besides, these people were too arrogant.¡±

    ¡°Oh, right, why were they chasing you? And what is the Dragon God Army?¡±

    Chen Fan could tell that Qiu Yuexin had already advanced to the peak first-level Divine Nascent realm. Otherwise, she couldn¡¯t have endured their relentless hunt for so long.

    ¡°You haven¡¯t heard about the Dragon God Army?¡± Qiu Yuexin looked at Chen Fan in shock.

    Chen Fan shrugged and said, ¡°Should I have?¡±

    ¡°Fine.¡± Qiu Yuexinbed the messy hair beside her ear and said, ¡°The Dragon God Army is a rather famous organization on the Gen Road. The so-called Dragon God Army is an organization formed by three brothers, known as the Three Great Dragon Lords.

    ¡°Each of the Three Great Dragon Lords possesses extraordinary strength and a true dragon¡¯s bloodline. They have gathered numerous followers on the Gen Road, who are all outstanding figures among the younger generation on the Gen Road. They¡¯ve defeated countless experts, earning a fierce reputation.¡±

    Qiu Yuexin gave Chen Fan a brief overview of the Dragon God Army.

    It was no wonder the Dragon God Army was so arrogant and tyrannical.

    On the Gen Road, their fearsome reputation was well-known, making them one of the most powerful organizations.

    On Chen Fan¡¯s journey, he also heard that many renowned geniuses had appeared on this ancient road, making a fierce name for themselves.

    After listening to Qiu Yuexin¡¯s exnation, Chen Fan understood the Dragon God Army¡¯s arrogance. The influence of the Three Great Dragon Lords was evidently behind it.

    ¡°As for the reason they were pursuing me, it¡¯s because of this ¨C the Sky Dragon Token.¡±

    Qiu Yuexin revealed a dragon-shaped token in her palm. It had a lifelike appearance, and Chen Fan could sense the aura of a flood dragon from it. Clearly, it was no ordinary item.

    Suddenly, Qiu Yuexin changed the topic, ¡°Have you heard of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold?¡±

 Chapter 625 - Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold

    <h4>Chapter 625 - Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold</h4>

    Qiu Yuexin suddenly changed the topic and asked, ¡°Have you ever heard of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold?¡±

    ¡°Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold?¡± Chen Fan asked, looking puzzled.

    Qiu Yuexin said, ¡°I¡¯m sure you also know that on the Ancient Trial Roads, aside from all the trials, one can alsoe across opportunities, like ruins and legacies of ancient sects, and so on.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Is this Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold the ruins of some sect?¡±

    Qiu Yuexin nodded with a smile and replied, ¡°That¡¯s right! And it¡¯s not the type that¡¯s been explored countless times with all the treasures long gone. This ruin has appeared for the first time.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement.

    No wonder the Dragon God Army was chasing after Qiu Yuexin. A newly discovered ancient sect ruin likely held many precious treasures, tempting anyone who heard about it.

    Qiu Yuexin continued, ¡°This Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold was once in the ck me City. It is said to be in a microcosm, with many natural treasures of heaven and earth, including even Dragon Marrow.¡±

    ¡°Dragon Marrow!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s mind shook.

    He recalled the foot-long Dragon Marrow he had obtained on Hidden Dragon Ind. That single treasure had made his cultivation advance rapidly, allowing him to fight and defeat Ye Cangxuan and Yin Jiu.

    Dragon Marrow wasn¡¯t just valuable to Core Formation realm martial artists; it was a priceless treasure even for Divine Nascent realm experts.

    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Qiu Yuexin nodded and said, ¡°I¡¯m sure you know about microcosms. They are considered grotto heavens and blessednds. The Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold once controlled this microcosm, using it as the sect''s headquarters. It¡¯s even rumored that this microcosm was a dragon''s nest, so it wouldn¡¯t be surprising if Dragon Marrows were produced there.

    ¡°The Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold is expected to reappear soon. However, if you wish to enter, you need a special token called the Sky Dragon Token.

    ¡°There are a total of nine tokens. Collecting all nine is the only way to open the passage to the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold.¡± Qiu Yuexin exined in great detail.

    ¡°I obtained this Sky Dragon Token by chance, but word got out, and now the Dragon God Army is hunting me down for it."

    Qiu Yuexin looked at Chen Fan and continued, ¡°I¡¯m willing to give this Sky Dragon Token to you. I wonder if you¡¯re interested?¡±

    ¡°Give it to me?¡± Chen Fan looked at Qiu Yuexin in surprise.

    This was a pass to enter the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold. Its importance was obvious. So, it was surprising that Qiu Yuexin would offer it to him.

    ¡°You just said that one needed to have the Sky Dragon Token if they wanted to enter the microcosm. You also know the importance of this token. Are you really willing to give it to me?¡±

    Qiu Yuexin smiled, looking very pretty and pleasing to the eyes. Her pleasant voice chimed, ¡°Others can enter the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold when the passage opens, even without the token. However, possessing the Sky Dragon Token could lead to trouble, even if you haven¡¯t done anything wrong. In short, it¡¯s a hot potato that I can¡¯t handle."

    Although she had reached the peak of the first-level Divine Nascent realm, she was still far from strong enough on the ancient road where monstrous geniuses abound.

    In the Dragon God Army, characters like her were aplenty.

    Keeping the Sky Dragon Token would be a disaster for her, as others would constantly try to seize it, putting her safety at risk.

    If she hadn¡¯t encountered Chen Fan, she would likely have already perished.

    ¡°I can¡¯t protect this Sky Dragon Token, but you can. I¡¯ll give it to you, provided you take me with you when the microcosm opens," Qiu Yuexin said.

    However, Chen Fan asked, ¡°In that case, why didn¡¯t you offer it to the Dragon God Army?¡±

    Qiu Yuexin smiled bitterly and said, ¡°I tried, but the Dragon God Army is too tyrannical and refused to let me live.¡±

    ¡°That makes sense.¡± Chen Fan nodded. The Dragon God Army was indeed iparably tyrannical.

    Naturally, Chen Fan would not refuse the Sky Dragon Token.

    After all, treasures were everywhere in the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold. Chen Fan was already tempted when Qiu Yuexin first mentioned it. How could he miss such an opportunity?

    He could also follow the crowd into the microcosm without a Sky Dragon Token. However, he could now take the initiative with his Sky Dragon Token, taking a more active position.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll ept your Sky Dragon Token.¡± Chen Fan took the Sky Dragon Token.

    Although the Sky Dragon Token was a hot potato, his skin was thick enough that it wouldn¡¯t burn him. As for the Dragon God Army, he wasn¡¯t afraid of them either.

    ¡°I n to find a ce in this mountain range to advance to the Divine Nascent realm. Once I¡¯m stronger, I¡¯ll be able to confront the Dragon God Army with greater confidence. Why don¡¯t you stay with me?¡± Chen Fan told Qiu Yuexin.

    Qiu Yuexin did not refuse his offer.

    The stronger Chen Fan was, the better it was for her.

    ......

    Chen Fan and Qiu Yuexin descended into a remote valley.

    They weren¡¯t worried about missing the opening of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm. After all, without the Sky Dragon Token in their possession, the others couldn¡¯t open the microcosm.

    News of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm had spread widely, and many people rushed to the area. A bloody fight was inevitable. Without sufficient strength, they would be insignificant and at risk of death.

    Therefore, gaining strength before the microcosm opened was crucial for their safety.

    Chen Fan did not waste any time. He sat cross-legged on the ground and began trying to advance to the Divine Nascent realm.

    With a wave of his arm, a sea of primeval stones appeared and ignited. A massive amount of primeval qi rushed into him.

    Chen Fan had spent all his primeval stones to advance to the nine-revolution Golden Core realm. However, after wiping out the three great ns of Shunan Prefecture and looting their fortune, he now had an abundance of cultivation resources.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Primeval stones burst open one after another. The pure primeval qi formed a storm, which Chen Fan promptly absorbed.

    His aura erupted violently.

    ¡°The golden core cracks, and the divine nascent appears...¡±

    The true primeval inside Chen Fan burned violently, bringing his strength to the peak.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Whirlwinds appeared around Chen Fan, constantly spinning and dancing.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    As the sea of primeval qi rushed into Chen Fan, his golden core instantly expanded. Vague contours of his divine nascent became visible within the golden core.

    The golden core shattered, and the divine nascent emerged and settled in his be. Chen Fan felt as though a wall had appeared before him. However, it quickly copsed under his forceful blow.

    <i>Crack, crack.</i>

    Cracks appeared on his golden core.

 Chapter 626 - Breaking Through to Divine Nascent

    <h4>Chapter 626 - Breaking Through to Divine Nascent</h4>

    Chen Fan was trying to advance to the Divine Nascent realm.

    After three months of umtion, his foundation was already deep. His progress was remarkably smooth. He shattered the realm barrier almost instantly.

    <i>Crack, crack.</i>

    Cracks formed on the surface of his golden core. The divine nascent would emerge after the core broke.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    As Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent unleashed its aura, the wind and the clouds immediately changed colors. The sky darkened as his tribtion clouds gathered.

    Qiu Yuexin, recovering from her injuries nearby, suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of fear. Startled, she opened her eyes and looked up, only to be shocked by what she saw.

    The rolling tribtion clouds in the sky whistled ominously, covering tens of kilometers and continuing to expand.

    ¡°Heavens, so this is his divine nascent tribtion. How horrifying! My tribtion clouds barely spanned ten kilometers, which already far exceeded the norm. But his tribtion... it''s nearly thirty kilometers wide,¡± Qiu Yuexin¡¯s beautiful eyes flickered in disbelief.

    As one of the top geniuses, she had always experienced tribtions that surpassed those of ordinary martial artists, be it the golden core tribtion or the divine nascent tribtion.

    Take her golden core tribtion, for example. Her tribtion clouds spanned two and a half kilometers. It was a mutated heavenly tribtion that had nearly shattered her golden core.

    As for her divine nascent tribtion, it spanned ten kilometers andpletely leveled all the mountain peaks within range. She had barely survived that ordeal.

    Without it, she wouldn¡¯t havested so long against the pursuing Dragon God Army with her peak first-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation.

    Qiu Yuexin smiled bitterly, looking at Chen Fan¡¯s tribtion clouds.

    Her divine nascent tribtion was nothingpared to Chen Fan¡¯s.

    She simply could not believe that someone¡¯s divine nascent tribtion could be this horrifying¡ªfar beyond even a heavenly star tribtion.

    Qiu Yuexin flitted away. She did not dare to stay here for Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent tribtion.

    Even though she was already a Divine Nascent realm powerhouse, she knew that she couldn¡¯t survive such a terrifying heavenly tribtion and would bepletely decimated.

    Qiu Yuexin finally stopped after flying fifty kilometers away, realizing she was no longer within the tribtion¡¯s range.

    When Chen Fan¡¯s heavenly tribtion spread fifty kilometers, she was dumbstruck and felt as if her soul had left her body.

    ¡°How monstrous is this guy to summon such a horrifying heavenly tribtion? No wonder he could defy the heavens and kill the Divine Nascent realm white-bone corpse demon back then. His golden core tribtion must have also been extraordinary.¡±

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan poured all his effort into advancing to the Divine Nascent realm.

    His golden core had already cracked, and his divine nascent had appeared, about to break out of its ¡°shell.¡± However, that was far from easy.

    Minutes and seconds flowed by.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    The primeval qi in heaven and earth suddenly became chaotic.

    ¡°His divine nascent is about to take birth!¡±

    Sensing the violent changes in the primeval qi of heaven and earth, Qiu Yuexin narrowed her pretty eyes.

    As long as Chen Fan could survive the heavenly tribtion¡¯s baptism, he would advance into the Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°Since this guy is such a freak, although the heavenly tribtion is very horrifying, he should be fine...¡±

    For some unknown reason, Qiu Yuexin¡¯s heart was pounding heavily as if it would leap out of her chest, and her breathing became rough.

    Rumble!

    As soon as Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent took birth, its aura shot straight into the sky, connecting with the Heavenly Dao. The heavenly tribtion above went berserk.

    Someone as monstrously powerful as Chen Fan was a variable the Heavenly Dao couldn¡¯t tolerate. It needed to rain down forbidden heavenly punishment to annihte him; he couldn¡¯t be allowed to live.

    Fierce lightning fell like a torrential downpour, all of it striking Chen Fan without missing a single bolt.

    The divine nascent tribtion was separated into two parts.

    The first part targeted the physique of the person undergoing the tribtion, using the power of the lightning tribtion to destroy their flesh.

    A divine nascent without a body was like a rootless weed.

    The second part, which targeted the divine nascent, was the wind and fire tribtion, further divided into the wind tribtion and the fire tribtion.

    The wind was the Divine Wind of Samadhi, and the fire was the Divine mes of Samadhi.

    If one failed to ovee these trials, they would turn to ashes. If they seeded, however, they would be free and unfettered in heaven and earth.

    ¡°Heaven Seizing Furnace!¡±

    Chen Fan summoned a true qi furnace that spanned several mu wide behind him promptly. [1]

    A vortex swirled inside the furnace, refining everything. Its suction force was immense, drawing the fierce lightning into the Heaven Seizing Furnace, transforming it into qi.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Chen Fan seemed to have be a ¡°lightning man.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, refreshing! Damned heavenly tribtion,e harder at me!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice echoed in all directions, filled with arrogance and disdain. The heavenly tribtion didn¡¯t faze him at all.

    For people like Qiu Yuexin, the horrifying lightning would be an absolute disaster, impossible to endure.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s physique was incredibly tough, powerful enough to destroy a Grade-5 treasure.

    To him, this heavenly tribtion was nothing more than a mild itch, incapable of shaking his foundation.

    ¡°Feels so good!¡±

    Chen Fan received the baptism of the fierce lightning. It felt like a downpour, with countless lightning dragons raining down on him.

    They manifested in various forms¡ªLightning Divine Lamp, Lightning Divine Spear, Lightning me, Lightning Immortal Pce, and other mutated heavenly tribtions that would make anyone else¡¯s scalp tingle with fear. Yet, they all converged on Chen Fan.

    Instead of feeling pain, he felt a strangefort. He faced the tribtion with his physique alone.

    For others, facing the tribtion was a near-impossible disaster. But for Chen Fan, it was a tempering, a baptism that nourished his strength.

    ¡°This guy...¡± Qiu Yuexin''s eyes twitched as she watched.

    She had never seen someone facing their heavenly tribtion like this.

    Others would try their best to avoid the heavenly tribtion, but Chen Fan felt that it wasn¡¯t harsh enough.

    ¡°Indeed, the gap between one genius and another is huge. Only people like him can be called a true genius. So-called geniuses like us are only slightly better than ordinary martial artists and can¡¯t be considered as true geniuses,¡± Qiu Yuexin muttered, utterly convinced.

    ¡°Miles of Rivers and Mountains...¡±

    Suddenly, the lightning intensified to its peak. A painting that was formed entirely from lightning appeared.

    It weaved into a painting of rivers and mountains that spanned miles, depicting the rise and fall of the times, and the cycle of the sun and moon. All of it swept toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°My god, the forbidden heavenly punishment, Miles of Rivers and Mountains, actually appeared. Does this mean the Heavenly Daopletely rejects him and wants to destroy him utterly, leaving no chance for survival?¡±

    Qiu Yuexin¡¯s soul trembled when she saw the painting spanned a hundred thousand feet.

    Taking a clear look at the painting of lightning, she felt a sense of despair growing in her heart.

    If she was the one facing this kind of cmity, she would have no chance of surviving it.

    This was a catastrophe mentioned only in the most ancient cultivation records.

    1. Mu is a Chinese unit of measurement for area. 1 Mu is 1/15 of a hectare. ?

 Chapter 627 - Wind and Fire Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 627 - Wind and Fire Tribtion</h4>

    <i>C!</i>

    The lightning of Miles of Rivers and Mountains swept and fell on Chen Fan, causing a huge explosion.

    His true primeval blew up, reducing his organs, meridians, and dantian to powder. His bones and marrow also meltedpletely under the devastating heavenly tribtion.

    It was a forbidden tribtion from legends.

    Even though Chen Fan had already gained initial mastery of the Hegemonic Golden Body, the terrifying tribtion still destroyed him.

    Qiu Yuexin¡¯s heart tightened when she saw the violent explosion, which only left his divine nascent behind.

    ¡°He¡¯s finished. This kind of forbidden tribtion is specifically used to destroy monstrous geniuses the heavens can¡¯t tolerate!¡±

    Qiu Yuexin clenched her fists tightly, her palmspletely covered in sweat.

    Suddenly, a miracle happened.

    Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent was chanting something. Immediately, flesh and blood appeared in the air. It was Chen Fan¡¯s physical body.

    He swelled up with a crackle. Meridians, true primeval, sea of qi, and dantian all coalesced into an embryo again.

    Chen Fan practiced a supreme divine art. To create a body and condense a blood soul was an act of plundering the luck of heaven and earth. As long as his life imprint wasn¡¯t annihted, Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t die.

    When the Miles of Rivers and Mountains tribtion destroyed his body earlier, Chen Fan channeled the supreme divine art and metamorphosed his remaining vitality, creating a new body.

    This new physique would be even more powerful and perfect than thest one.

    Breaking down and building up!

    The heavenly tribtion seemed to have sensed Chen Fan¡¯s rebirth, realizing that he was crafting a new, powerful physique.

    Thews of heaven and earth grew even more intense, and the sky trembled as a massive mountain of lightning appeared.

    This colossal mountain resembled an ancient divine mountain, with its five peaks representing the five forces of the world: destruction, chaos, sphemy, evil, and extremity.

    ¡°Five Prison Lightning Mountain¡ªsomething like that appeared too?!¡±

    Qiu Yuexin had gone numb.

    Initially, the heavenly tribtions Chen Fan faced were terrifying mutated tribtions. Although rare, they would appear for monstrous geniuses. They weren¡¯t forbidden tribtions.

    However, Miles of Rivers and Mountains was a forbidden tribtion, recorded only in ancient books. Such tribtions only targeted those in the legendary realms and should have never appeared for a Divine Nascent realm martial artist.

    Chen Fan had just broken this norm.

    Legendary tribtions from ancient myths appeared one after another, making Qiu Yuexin feel like she was witnessing an epic saga.

    The Five Prison Lightning Mountain pressed down, causing an internal explosion that obliterated the newly reformed body.

    From afar, Chen Fan¡¯s body resembled a mere bag of skin; everything inside had turned into bloody liquid, and his bones and organs had vanished. He would have to reform his body to be reborn.

    ¡°Perfect timing!¡±

    Powerful true primeval surged from Chen Fan. The Heaven Seizing Furnace expanded to the limit and swallowed the Five Prison Lightning Mountain in one gulp.

    The lightning mountain peak disintegrated, making his true primeval go berserk again.

    ¡°Hegemonic Golden Body, reborn!¡±

    Chen Fan swelled up once more like an inted ball. Divine radiance filled the air and infused into him, making his bones visibly form.

    Every bone looked as if they were cast from jade¡ªthese were the jade bones.

    Chen Fan felt jade marrow developing inside them. This marrow was the purest fluid, free of any impurities, and exuded a divine quality.

    His skeleton eventually took shape. The lightning outside became increasingly violent.

    Chen Fan harnessed the lightning¡¯s power to solidify his body. His skeleton waspleted, and his organs began to form¡ªhis heart, lungs, stomach, and more, each taking shape one by one.

    Streams of light shed within Chen Fan¡¯s body as his organs formed. Orifices, flesh, and skin also began to reform. His skin, flesh, and blood became clear and translucent.

    His blood was like the Milky Way, flowing through his blood vessels. The slightest movement from him could seemingly tear down the stars in the sky.

    Skeleton, organs, skin, meridians, flesh, and blood... All of these essentialponents took shape one by one.

    Chen Fan regained his tall, perfectly formed body, now more beautiful than before. The transformation had made him a truly remarkable figure.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Finally, the heavenly tribtion let out a roar of fury, enraged that it had failed to destroy Chen Fan despite unleashing such destructive force. In its final act of defiance, it gathered all its remaining power and sent down onest, overwhelming tribtion.

    If this had happened before Chen Fan¡¯s rebirth, even with his mastery of the Hegemonic Golden Body, this final tribtion would have utterly destroyed him.

    However, Chen Fan was impervious to this final attack now.

    Atst, the tribtions targeting his physique disappeared.

    ¡°Phew, he¡¯s ovee the physical tribtion. Next is the wind and fire tribtion that targets the divine nascent!¡±

    Qiu Yuexin¡¯s fists remained tightly clenched as if she were the one facing the tribtions and was brimming with anxiety.

    It could be said that among the tribtions martial artists had to ovee, the wind and fire tribtion was the most dangerous.

    The divine nascent of a newbie Divine Nascent realm martial artist was weak, being a newborn.

    At this stage, the tribtion was the most dangerous. Failure to ovee it meantplete annihtion, leaving no trace behind.

    This tribtion involved mes that would engulf the entire divine nascent. The winds would enter its nine orifices. Survival would be a slim chance.

    Chen Fan¡¯s wind and fire tribtion descended upon him soon after the physical tribtion, leaving him no time to prepare at all.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo.</i>

    An endless entric wind blew from within his divine nascent.

    Intense, abnormal mes burst forth, enveloping him in the Divine Wind of Samadhi and the Divine me of Samadhi.

    Chen Fan instantly felt an indescribable pain. A profound sense of impending death overwhelmed him, emanating from his divine nascent.

    Under the wind and fire tribtion, his divine nascent seemed to convey the feeling of imminent destruction.

    <i>Chi, chi.</i>

    Suddenly, fierce mes erupted from his divine nascent, turning a deep, pure red and forming into lotus flower silhouettes.

    The intense fiery light illuminated the void in red. This was the forbidden ¡°Red Lotus Karmic Fire,¡± a part of the fire tribtion.

    Even a small trace of this me could condemn anyone to eternal damnation.

    This Red Lotus Karmic Fire was the most terrifying me that existed in heaven and earth, known for its ability to burn divine nascent, true primeval energy, souls, physical bodies, and all forms of qi.

 Chapter 628 - Successfully Overcoming the Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 628 - Sessfully Oveing the Tribtion</h4>

    Thousands of Red Lotus Karmic Fire bloomed within Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent, swirling everywhere.

    Their silhouettes were asrge as a water jar.

    Each unleashed an incredibly terrifying power, scorching Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent until it sizzled.

    ¡°This... this... what did Chen Fan do to provoke such heavenly wrath? Forbidden tribtions appeared for his physical body; now, the forbidden Red Lotus Karmic Fire has appeared during his wind and fire tribtion.¡±

    Qiu Yuexin''s eyes widened in shock. This wasn¡¯t a tribtion; this was destruction.

    As soon as the Red Lotus Karmic Fire appeared, it wrapped around Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent.

    Despite its immense power, the divine nascent visibly withered and began melting.

    The wind tribtion also erupted. Pitch-ck strips of wind, immensely stronger than the fierce winds of the nine heavens, burst forth from within the divine nascent, sounding like ghosts wailing and gods howling.

    Every strip of the ck tribtion wind coalesced into sinister, vicious ck dragons with sharp ws and scales, their mouths wide open.

    These wind dragons worked with the Red Lotus Karmic Fire, intensifying the mes. It blew on the Red Lotus Karmic Fire, making them whirl and spin non-stop.

    This was the ck Nightmare Dragon Wind, forbidden just like the Red Lotus Karmic Fire.

    The ¡°nightmare¡± refers to an incubus. When a martial artist was caught in this wind, they would unknowingly turn into ash in their dream and perish.

    Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent transformed into a towering pir of fire that stretched to the heavens.

    The wind and fire roared with fury, spiraling around him and erupting relentlessly from within his divine nascent, growing more intense with every passing second.

    As the wind and fire burned his divine nascent, haunting voices echoed through the air:

    ¡°Tribtion, tribtion, tribtion...¡±

    ¡°No escape, no escape...¡±

    These ominous sounds seemed to dere that Chen Fan would be trapped in this tribtion.

    <i>What a horrifying wind and fire tribtion. Mine only had normal karmic fires and ordinary wind dragons¡ªnothing like the overwhelming force Chen Fan is up against. Can he really survive this? </i>Qiu Yuexin worried deeply inside.

    During the physical tribtion, Chen Fan¡¯s body was destroyed by the Miles of Rivers and Mountains, but his cultivation technique allowed him to be reborn. However, if his divine nascent sumbed to the wind and fire tribtion, it would spellplete annihtion.

    <i>Buzz, buzz, buzz. Buzz, buzz, buzz, buzz...</i>

    Wisps of ck qi rose from Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent.

    Under the wind and fire tribtion, his divine nascent suffered immense torment, pushing him to the brink of destruction.

    ¡°Let¡¯s see if this wind and fire tribtion has what it takes to destroy me!¡±

    Chen Fan quickly took out the Dragon Soul Lingzhi, grabbing it with both hands. Instantly, it transformed into pure energy and flowed directly onto his divine nascent, still engulfed by the raging winds and mes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent, looking twisted and hideous from the relentless struggle, found sudden relief, as if a heavenly dew had soothed it. A look of contentment reced the agonized expression on its face.

    ¡°Dragon Soul Lingzhi, he even has such a miraculous treasure. Looks like this wind and fire tribtion will not be a problem now!¡±

    Qiu Yuexin¡¯s eyes lit up. Her tightly clenched fists loosened involuntarily.

    She also knew of the effects of a Dragon Soul Lingzhi. It was best used when a martial artist faced their wind and fire tribtion. When their divine nascent reached the brink of copse, this treasure could restore its strength immensely.

    As the essence of the Dragon Soul Lingzhi flowed into Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent, the contorted expression gradually eased into one of tranquility. The wind and fire tribtion continued to encircle it, but the divine nascent remained unshaken.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Sensing the resurgence of vitality within Chen Fan, an even fiercer wind and fire tribtion erupted from the depths of his divine nascent.

    ¡°Nirvana rebirth, wind refines my spirit, fire refines my body. Yin and Yang collide, and the cauldron coalesces the soul. Oveing the tribtion, achieving paragon.¡±

    Although the wind and fire tribtion was growing fiercer, Chen Fan stood unafraid with the Dragon Soul Lingzhi strengthening him.

    Gradually, the wind and fire tribtion began to subside.

    ¡°He did it. He actually seeded,¡± Qiu Yuexin muttered, her heart swelling with joy as if she had passed the tribtion herself.

    Finally, the mes and winds surrounding Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent extinguished.

    His divine nascent emitted an iparably pure and holy radiance. It was incredibly spiritual and tangible, illustrating the power of Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent. It was much more powerful than the divine nascent of ordinary Divine Nascent realm martial artists.

    After experiencing the baptism of the wind and fire tribtion, not to mention it being the Red Lotus Karmic Fire and ck Nightmare Wind Dragon forbidden tribtions, Chen Fan¡¯s divine nascent emerged stronger than ever.

    In a sh, his divine nascent transformed into a streak of light and shot into his be.

    <i>Hoo, hoo!</i>

    Suddenly, a terrifying suction force erupted from Chen Fan, forming a huge funnel vortex above his head. The primeval qi of heaven and earth was violently drawn in, rushing toward him with explosive force.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura soared fiercely.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    He quickly took out countless primeval stones. They exploded simultaneously, transforming into a storm of primeval qi, which he also devoured.

    This terrifying phenomenon stunned Qiu Yuexin.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, good, good, refreshing!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s thunderousughter resounded.

    He was like a sponge, greedily soaking up an immense amount of primeval qi.

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation aura reached the peak of the first-level Divine Nascent realm. And with a boom and a crack, the threshold of the second-level Divine Nascent realm was broken through.

    The depth and richness of his umted power erupted all at once, propelling him directly to the second level¡ªa feat that was nothing short of astonishing.

    Chen Fan¡¯s surging aura came to a stop after a while. He retracted itpletely, masking his true strength so effectively that he appeared no different from an ordinary person with no cultivation.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    He clenched his fist, and the air in his palm was instantly crushed, shattering with explosive force.

    Power. An overwhelming force surged within him, capable of dominating the world.

    ¡°How unexpected. I broke through to the second-level Divine Nascent realm in one go. Tsk, tsk, after the baptism of the heavenly tribtion, my Hegemonic Golden Body has also reached the third level. With my current strength, I can kill a third or fourth-level Divine Nascent realm expert with one punch!¡±

    Chen Fan swung his fist, sensing that he could easily tear through space. Even a hundred-thousand-foot-tall iron mountain would crumble from his blow.

    Qiu Yuexin cautiously flew over, her eyes wide with disbelief as she stared at Chen Fan.

    ¡°You...¡±

    Chen Fan smiled, ¡°What about me?¡±

    ¡°Nothing.¡± Qiu Yuexin shook her head, looking defeated, and said, ¡°You¡¯re really a monster, oveing such a terrifying tribtion. You even broke through to the second-level Divine Nascent realm in one go. Amazing.¡±

    ¡°Haha, now that I have broken through to the Divine Nascent realm, I won¡¯t be scared even if the Dragon God Army¡¯s Great Dragon Lordes. Let¡¯s go to the ck me City and quietly wait for the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm to open,¡± Chen Fan said confidently.

 Chapter 629 - Black Flame City

    <h4>Chapter 629 - ck me City</h4>

    Chen Fan and Qiu Yuexin flew out of the mountain range and flitted toward the ck me City.

    ck me City dwarfed Shunan Prefecture in size, as befitting a city of the Blue Dragon Domain. The towering city walls stretched into the clouds, and the city''s vast expanse seemed endless, rivaling even the imperial city of the Great Chu Empire.

    They entered the city and stopped at a restaurant.

    As they settled in, they overheard people discussing the opening of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s ruins.

    The Ancient Trial Roads had drawn geniuses from across the entire eastern continent.

    This period was always bustling with activity, as major cities and domains along the Ancient Road became vibrant hubs ofpetition and excitement every century.

    The imminent opening of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm was a particrly significant event. It led to countless geniuses gathering in the ck me City.

    It was a prime opportunity for those seeking to distinguish themselves before they arrived at the True Martial Academy. The True Martial Academy was renowned for its numerous geniuses, and standing out among so many was a challenge.

    If one could enter the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold and raise their strength, they could get a substantial edge over peers at the academy while making a name for themselves simultaneously.

    Thus, no one was willing to miss this chance.

    It wasn¡¯t only the geniuses who were participating in the trial; even seasoned experts, drawn by the allure of the event, flocked to ck me City from distantnds like sharks sensing blood.

    Martial artists cultivated to extend their lifespans.

    As their cultivation level increases, their lifespan would increase by a little. No one was willing to wait passively for death; they seized every opportunity they could find.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid countless experts would be drawn to the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s ruins, <i>tsk, tsk.</i>¡±

    ¡°I know, right? I heard this microcosm was originally a dragon¡¯s nest. The Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold found it and upied it, making it their headquarters. A microcosm that could house a true dragon is far superior to ordinary grotto heavens or blessednds.¡±

    ¡°Ah, Dragon Marrow. In a true dragon¡¯s nest, all sorts of natural treasures of heaven and earth appear due to the dragon qi. Moreover, it could also produce Dragon Marrow, which is highly sought after by Divine Nascent realm experts. It could allow one to easily raise their cultivation level.¡±

    ¡°There might even be a true dragon¡¯s blood inside. If one could absorb it, they could develop a true dragon¡¯s bloodline. Imagine having the bloodline of a true dragon¡ªa god-like being. It would make a tremendous impact and astonish the world.¡±

    ¡°Say, who do you think will obtain the greatest benefits from the fight in the ruins?¡±

    ¡°Why is that even a question? It¡¯ll obviously be the Dragon God Army. Under the leadership of the Three Great Dragon Lords, it has made a great name for itself on the Gen Road. They have many geniuses and are the most powerful force around. Plus, they are iparably domineering. Anyone who dares to challenge them won¡¯tst long.¡±

    ¡°I heard the Three Great Dragon Lords¡¯ bloodline is extraordinary. Each of them has true dragon blood, making the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s ruins the perfect treasure trove for them. They¡¯ll stop at nothing to im the best opportunities within.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard the third dragon lord himself will be leading them in this fight for the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s ruins, and they¡¯ve already announced they¡¯re going to monopolize it.¡±

    ¡°Monopolize it? That¡¯s too bold of them! Even though the Dragon God Army is powerful, there are plenty of top-tier experts among the younger generation who are just as strong as the Three Great Dragon Lords. Word is that the me King, Xiao Yan, is here too, and his strength matches that of the third dragon lord.¡±

    ¡°me King? You mean the genius born with a fire spirit body? I heard he had cultivated nine types of primeval mes of heaven and earth to the level of major mastery. When he unleashes them, they can scorch the heavens and the earth. He oncepletely overpowered and killed a veteran fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert.¡±

    ¡°I wonder who¡¯s stronger¡ªthe me King and the third dragon lord? One of them possesses the bloodline of a true dragon, while the other has a fire spirit body, mastering mes from birth. Their sh would be spectacr.¡±

    ¡°I heard that a squad of Dragon God Army members were killed a few days ago. They were chasing down a girl named Qiu Yuexin to take her Sky Dragon Order.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, what¡¯s so strange about that? Although the Dragon God Army is powerful and tyrannical, there is always someone better. Even they can meet their match. Getting killed isn¡¯t out of the ordinary.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan listened to the crowd¡¯s discussions, gaining a clear understanding of the current situation on the Gen Road.

    Someone from a squad of Dragon God Army martial artists suddenly shouted, ¡°Audacious, how dare you speak ill of our Dragon God Army! You must be tired of living!¡±

    These people were all very arrogant and domineering, wearing haughty and insufferably arrogant expressions on their faces. They all had a golden dragon embroidered on their clothing at the chest.

    Immediately, the discussions died down.

    While many didn¡¯t care for the Dragon God Army¡¯s arrogance, and some even despised it, everyone acknowledged their strength. Few were truly unafraid of them, even if they didn''t respect them.

    Provoking the Dragon God Army would be like inviting a maggot to cling to your bones¡ªonce they had their sights on you, especially the fearsome Three Great Dragon Lords, escape was nearly impossible.

    ¡°A bunch of loudmouths. Do you think you have the right to criticize the Dragon God Army? Anyone who opposes our Dragon God Army will meet a grim end. If I hear you belittling us again, it¡¯ll be thest thing you ever say!¡±

    Themander¡¯s tyrannical words silenced the room, filling the air with a tense unease.

    Though many were seething with anger, none dared to voice their dissent. After all, thismander was no weakling; he had reached the third-level Divine Nascent realm, making him a formidable opponent.

    The group of Dragon God Army soldiers moved toward Chen Fan¡¯s table, their cold, murderous intent palpable.

    An icy killing intent swept over, causing Qiu Yuexin¡¯s expression to change drastically.

    ¡°Qiu Yuexin, did you think you could escape from our Dragon God Army¡¯s palm? We knew about it the moment you two entered ck me City. <i>Hmph</i>, brat, you¡¯re the one who killed Commander Wang, huh? How bold of you, to dare kill our Dragon God Army¡¯s people. Don¡¯t you know how to spell the word death?¡±

    Unfazed, Chen Fan casually picked up a peanut with his chopsticks and popped it into his mouth. Slowly, he looked up at themander, his voice calm and indifferent, and said, ¡°Who let this mad dog off its leash?¡±

    ¡°Bastard, you¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    In an instant, the entire restaurant was filled with terrifying killing intent.

    The squad of Dragon God Army members all red at Chen Fan angrily.

    They would chop Chen Fan into meat paste as soon as themander gave the order and let him know the price for insulting them.

 Chapter 630 - Third Dragon Lord

    <h4>Chapter 630 - Third Dragon Lord</h4>

    ¡°How daring of this guy, he actually called the Dragon God Army dogs!¡±

    ¡°<i>Shh</i>, keep your voice down. If the Dragon God Army hears you, your life is over.¡±

    ¡°<i>Tsk tsk</i>, so she¡¯s Qiu Yuexin. What a pretty girl. That guy is really handsome, too. Did he kill the Dragon God Army squad hunting her to save her?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the use of looking handsome? If he crossed the Dragon God Army, especially by killing their people, he is a dead man walking, no matter how good-looking he is. Pity about that Qiu Yuexin, though. How amazing would it be to get a taste of a woman like her?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Inside the restaurant, others kept ncing over at them.

    ¡°Bastard, you didn¡¯t just kill our Dragon God Army members¡ªyou dared to insult us too. Don¡¯t you know what sins you¡¯vemitted? Don¡¯t you know what happens to those who offend us? Today, not even the gods can save you!¡± Zhang Hong, amander in the Dragon God Army, said coldly.

    Suddenly, Chen Fan shouted at Zhang Hong¡¯s group, ¡°Scram!¡±

    The air exploded with a terrifying sonic wave that mmed into Zhang Hong and his men.

    Their protective true primeval shattered instantly, and they flew back like sacks of potatoes, crashing into the tables and chairs, making a mess on the floor.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    The entire restaurant fell silent in an instant.

    No one expected Chen Fan to be so frightening.

    He didn¡¯t even lift a finger. With just a shout, he severely injured Zhang Hong¡¯s group, rendering them powerless. To put it in perspective, Zhang Hong was in the third-level Divine Nascent realm.

    No mediocre genius dared to walk on the Ancient Trial Road. Every one of them was a brilliant talent, standing out even among those at the same cultivation level

    Yet, Chen Fan had severely injured such a genius with just a shout. It was truly terrifying.

    What made it even more astonishing was that Chen Fan was only in the second-level Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°Dragon God Army? What is that! So what if I offended you? A bunch of trash like you dares to bark in front of me, you must be asking to die! You could have been decent humans, but instead, you chose to be dogs for others and still have the nerve to act proud. Pathetic.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s words shocked the crowd present once more.

    ¡°Ouch, ouch...¡± Zhang Hong and the others¡¯plexions were all ghastly white, wailing on the ground.

    Suddenly, a voice rang out, ¡°Brother, you¡¯re in big trouble now!¡±

    A young man dressed in blue raised his wine cup toward Chen Fan from across the room and said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid you still don¡¯t know this, but the Third Dragon Lord is leading them to the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm. He should have arrived at ck me City by now. You¡¯ve truly poked the ho¡¯s nest this time.¡±

    Chen Fan raised his cup, returning the greeting, and said, ¡°No matter. I want to meet this Third Dragon Lord and see what he¡¯s capable of. I¡¯ll wait for him toe to me!¡±

    As soon as Chen Fan¡¯s voice fell, a shout rang out coldly, ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, is that so?¡±

    Simultaneously, a majestic aura, as heavy as a mountain, enveloped the area, causing the entire restaurant to shake under its terrifying pressure.

    Zhang Hong and the others were still wailing on the ground, but as soon as the terrifying aura descended, they seemed injected with adrenaline. With great hate, they roared, ¡°Haha, the dragon lord is here, Sir Dragon Lord has descended. You¡¯re done for, bastard. You¡¯re dead for sure, you know that!¡±

    It was as if the arrival of the Third Dragon Lord had given them a newfound courage, making them believe that no one, not even Chen Fan, could stand against him.

    ¡°Noisy!¡± Chen Fan grabbed with his hand, capturing Zhang Hong and the others across the air and imprisoned them behind him.

    He simultaneously shot forward and stood proudly in the air, unfazed by the overwhelming pressure. His clothes fluttered in the wind, exuding an extraordinary air of authority.

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go out and take a look.¡±

    ¡°Third Dragon Lord is here. This brat¡¯s arrogance knows no boundaries, to look down on even the Third Dragon Lord.¡±

    The people in the restaurant rushed outside, eager to see how the situation would unfold.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A massive hand covered the sky outside.

    No, it wasn¡¯t a hand¡ªit was a huge dragon¡¯s w as if it had reached out from the depths of space-time to tear Chen Fan apart.

    ¡°Stop hiding!¡±

    Facing this huge dragon¡¯s w, a fierce light shot out of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, and he raised his palm and thrust out.

    Northern Star Reaper Hand!

    A reaper¡¯s intent burst forth, colliding with the descending dragon w.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A shocking explosion erupted, and the destructive light blew away half the sky, shaking thend below

    A terrifying destructive storm swept down from the sky. The earth cracked open at once. Countless people dodged in a hurry, screaming miserably.

    A soft voice rang out, carrying a hint of surprise.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    The hidden Third Dragon Lord was surprised that Chen Fan could resist his blow.

    ¡°Show yourself, Third Dragon Lord, or these losers will lose their petty lives.¡± Chen Fan looked into the sky indifferently, calm andposed.

    As his words echoed, a slightly angered voice responded.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    The winds and clouds churned in the void as an imposing figure stepped out. He had a handsome appearance, flowing ck hair, a sturdy figure, and he wore a long, golden robe. His frosty expression and the way he carried himself¡ªlike an ancient god¡ªmade it clear he looked down on the world.

    This was the renowned Third Dragon Lord of the Dragon God Army.

    ¡°You¡¯re threatening me? Are you looking to die?¡± said the Third Dragon Lord.

    He looked at Chen Fan icily, without the slightest emotion in his eyes, as if Chen Fan was a dead man in his eyes.

    ¡°Third Dragon Lord!¡±

    ¡°So, he is the Third Dragon Lord? What a terrifying aura!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, he¡¯s clearly a peak fourth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, yet he feels more powerful than a fifth-level expert.¡±

    ¡°This brat dares to provoke the Third Dragon Lord to his face. It¡¯s over for him!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    With the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s arrival, the expressions of the people in ck me City changed drastically.

    ¡°Looking to die? I think you¡¯re the one courting death instead!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, looking at the Third Dragon Lord. ¡°What world-renowned Third Dragon Lord? You¡¯re nothing much in my eyes. To dare to call yourself dragon lord with only peak fourth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation, what shameless boasting and gross overestimation of yourself!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± The Third Dragon Lord only snorted coldly, not saying anything in return. He reached out, and his hand grewrger as it sted toward Chen Fan.

 Chapter 631 - Crossing Blows

    <h4>Chapter 631 - Crossing Blows</h4>

    The Third Dragon Lord struck without a word, letting his actions speak for his untouchable authority.

    A massive hand mmed down, threatening to crush the very space around it and shaking the ground violently. The buildings in the city groaned under the pressure as if they might copse at any moment.

    Chen Fan smiled in response, not afraid at all. He immediately countered, releasing a cold and piercing killing intent that swept across the heavens, pressing down on the Third Dragon Lord.

    ¡°You dare to show killing intent toward me? That only seals your fate!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes shed with cold light as he sensed the deadly intent from Chen Fan. He struck even harder, determined to crush the opponent.

    ¡°Who is he? He actually dares to attack the Third Dragon Lord?¡±

    ¡°How bold, to show killing intent toward him!¡±

    ¡°He must be tired of living! This guy is insane, challenging the Third Dragon Lord with only second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. Courting death, he truly is courting death!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone was trembling inside.

    They weren¡¯t just trembling under the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s terrifying pressure, but also because of Chen Fan¡ªthe man who dared to challenge the Third Dragon Lord.

    Many of them knew, deep down, that they wouldn¡¯t dare challenge the Third Dragon Lord even if they were at the fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm, let alone with only second-level cultivation like Chen Fan.

    Although Chen Fan had heavily injured Zhang Hong¡¯s group with a shout earlier, there was simply noparison between Zhang Hong and the Third Dragon Lord.

    The Third Dragon Lord was a super genius, a pride of heaven who could contend against a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm at the peak-stage fourth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Someone like that was destined to shake the Gen Road, a genius who would catch the eyes of those ancient figures once he entered the True Martial Academy.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    A gigantic golden palm appeared.

    Golden light filled the sky, unbreakable and unstoppable.

    The sky turnedpletely golden as the palm seal swept across it, violently colliding with the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s massive hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The terrifying impact erupted in all directions like a tidal wave, pulverizing the clouds and shaking the entire space.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    A terrifying storm rose,yer uponyer, as if the heavens themselves were trembling in fury. The sight was horrifying, shaking the hearts of everyone present.

    ¡°What terrifying strength!¡±

    The crowd was dazed, awestruck by the terrifying might of the two fighters.

    Whether it was the Third Dragon Lord or Chen Fan, both were exceptional martial artists. But Chen Fan was especially monstrous, challenging the Third Dragon Lord with only second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. Yet, he had managed to obliterate that gigantic hand.

    As waves of qi rolled over, Chen Fan stood unmoved, like a reef at the bottom of the sea, gazing at the Third Dragon Lord with indifference.

    His long hair whipped wildly in the wind, and his clothing pped loudly.

    ¡°Interesting. It¡¯s no wonder you dared to oppose our Dragon God Army.¡± The Third Dragon Lord looked at Chen Fan sternly. From their brief exchange, he already knew that Chen Fan was far from weak.

    He realized that Chen Fan¡¯sbat strength wasn¡¯t limited to his cultivation level. The fact that he had broken through the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s attacks twice already spoke volumes about his power.

    Even third or fourth-level Divine Nascent realm experts couldn¡¯t easily withstand those attacks; Chen Fan had done so effortlessly, showing no signs of strain.

    ¡°Oppose?¡± Chen Fan scoffed and said, ¡°You people think too highly of yourselves. What does the Dragon God Army think it is? Daring to offend me? That¡¯s asking to die!¡±

    The crowd no longer felt that Chen Fan was being arrogant.

    The onlookers were no fools. Chen Fan¡¯s actions indicated that his strength far exceeded what his cultivation level suggested.

    While many shared discontent with the Dragon God Army¡¯s arrogance and bullying, none were bold enough to speak out as Chen Fan did. After all, theycked the immense strength to stand against the Third Dragon Lord.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡± The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s anger red as he raised an eyebrow. ¡°Did you think withstanding two of my attacks is the same as defeating me?! You¡¯re too na?ve!¡±

    A terrifying aura swept over like a sharp de, slicing through all barriers in its path and pressing down on Chen Fan.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The immense pressure caused Chen Fan¡¯s bones to creak. Any ordinary person would have been crushed into mincemeat by such a force.

    ¡°What a terrifying aura! So this is the real power of the Third Dragon Lord?¡±

    The crowd¡¯s hearts jumped, and their eyes narrowed when they sensed the terrifying aura spreading in space, feeling like an ancient ferocious beast had awakened.

    The Third Dragon Lord hadn¡¯t used his full strength before, believing Chen Fan wasn¡¯t worthy of such effort. However, Chen Fan¡¯s brazen words had thoroughly infuriated him.

    In an instant, a raging fire-like aura erupted. It felt like it would shake the universe. This was the mark of a super genius who had shaken the Gen Road.

    Several people in the city, also at the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm, gasped in fear and trepidation under the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s overwhelming aura.

    They could tell from the aura alone that they would stand no chance against him, even if they were at the same cultivation level. Ordinary people wouldn¡¯t stand a chance at all.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly at this moment. A faint golden luster appeared on him, resisting the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s terrifying aura, his gaze sharp as a knife.

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s reputation was well-deserved. It was clear why he could lead the Dragon God Army andmand loyalty from figures like Zhang Hong. His cultivation and strength were formidable.

    Seeing Chen Fan easily resisting the full pressure of his aura with such dominance, a grave expression appeared on the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s face.

    He could sense the powerful oppressive force emanating from Chen Fan, even making him feel a twinge of unease.

    ¡°Come on, I want to see what the great Third Dragon Lord can do to me.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s sharp gaze was on the Third Dragon Lord, his voice indifferent.

    The Third Dragon Lord looked at Chen Fan with an icy gaze, a cold light shing in his eyes. He struck out in an instant.

    A terrifying aura erupted from him, sweeping out in all directions and across the nine heavens. He now wielded a halberd; this was the first time he had brought out his weapon in front of the crowd.

    The tip of this halberd was shaped like a flood dragon. A very powerful oppressive force rippled on it as if the entire halberd was forged from a flood dragon.

    This was the Flood Dragon Halberd, an exceptional quality Grade-5 treasure.

    Even when he took down a veteran expert to seize their Sky Dragon Token previously, he hadn¡¯t used the Flood Dragon Halberd.

    But now, facing Chen Fan, he had to use it.

 Chapter 632 â€“ Retreat

    <h4>Chapter 632 ¨C Retreat</h4>

    With the Flood Dragon Halberd in hand, the Third Dragon Lord''s aura became increasingly ferocious. The oppressive force it exuded was so intense that even a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert would feel their mouth go dry under its pressure.

    ¡°The Third Dragon Lord is going all out. This guy¡¯s finished for sure.¡±

    ¡°To make the Third Dragon Lord go all out against a mere second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivator¡ªhe should be proud, even if he dies.¡±

    ¡°I heard that just half a month ago, Third Dragon Lord personally fought a veteran fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert for a Sky Dragon Token and killed them. With his bare hands!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Now that he has taken the initiative to use the Flood Dragon Halberd, it speaks volumes about that guy¡¯s strength. He¡¯s definitely an apex expert among the younger generation. Otherwise, he would not have been able to force the Third Dragon Lord to go all out.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd¡¯s gazes narrowed when they saw the Flood Dragon Halberd and broke out into murmurs.

    Despite recognizing Chen Fan¡¯s extraordinary strength, few believed he could stand against the Third Dragon Lord now.

    Now that he was using his full strength, and had even brought out the Flood Dragon Halberd, Chen Fan couldn''t defeat the Third Dragon Lord. His journey on the Ancient Trial Road woulde to an end here.

    The Flood Dragon Halberd swung through the air with unmatched force, like a razor-sharp de cutting through space.

    Everywhere it passed, the air ignited with explosive force, and the very fabric of space seemed to tear apart as if it were a delicate painting being shredded.

    The sheer intensity of the attack created an overwhelming pressure that forced the onlookers to retreat instinctively as if they had encountered a god or a devil.

    The fear of being caught in the destructive path of the halberd drove them back, knowing that remaining where they stood would mean being split in two in an instant.

    A faint golden luster shone on Chen Fan.

    It was as if his skin was cast from gold, radiating an aura of extreme oppression that seemed to stabilize the copsing space around him.

    Chen Fan stepped forward, shaking heaven and earth.

    He threw out a punch like an ancient god, shattering the oing halberd force.

    <i>Hiss...</i>

    Countless people sucked in a breath of cold air at the sight.

    In their eyes, Chen Fan was like a god or a devil. They couldn''t believe what they were witnessing.

    How could someone possess such a terrifyingly resilient physique that he could destroy the Third Dragon Lord''s attack unarmed?

    The halberd''s force, powerful enough to kill a fourth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, had failed to even scratch Chen Fan. The sight was beyond terrifying¡ªit was awe-inspiring.

    <i>Thump, thump!</i>

    Chen Fan continued pressing forward.

    He was glowing with vigor, like a battle god, his fighting spirit high.

    His Hegemonic Golden Body had reached the third level after getting tempered under the terrifying heavenly tribtion.

    It could be said that the toughness of his physique was unimaginable now.

    <i>Boom, boom.</i>

    As Chen Fan strode through the air, heaven and earth shook as an extremely oppressive force descended on the Third Dragon Lord, making him narrow his gaze. He felt as if a deste ancient beast was charging at him, wanting to tear him to shreds.

    This feeling was new to him. He hadn¡¯t felt such a strong sense of oppression in a long, long time.

    It had always been he who instilled fear and dread in others. But now, with the situation reversed, a deep sense of humiliation surged within him.

    ¡°Courting death!¡± said the Third Dragon Lord with an icy look on his face. Swinging the Flood Dragon Halberd, a halberd light streaked across heaven and earth.

    A towering wave of qi surged forth. The halberd light emerged from the qi wave, sting fiercely toward Chen Fan.

    The murderous qi formed an overwhelming wave, covering the sky and earth, sweeping down upon Chen Fan with the intent to annihte him.

    The prestige of a dragon lord was not to be challenged!

    Chen Fan ignored this terrifying murderous qi and the towering sea of fury. Striding forth, he trampled everything under his feet. None of it could shake him in the slightest.

    <i>C!</i>

    The flood dragon halberd light tore through the air, possessing the might to kill a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    Yet, under the horrified gazes of the onlookers, Chen Fan reached out his palm¡ªlike the hand of a god¡ªgrasping the deadly halberd light.

    The flood dragon halberd light erupted with wild, destructive force, but Chen Fan¡¯s palm was like an immovable divine hand.

    The sharp aura pushed against Chen Fan¡¯s palm, producing nging noises and bursts of sparks, but couldn¡¯t break free.

    <i>Boom tch!</i>

    Chen Fan closed his palm fiercely under the shocked gazes of the crowd.

    The terrifying flood dragon halberd light was instantly crushed. It seemed like he had just crushed a fierce and sinister flood dragon with his bare hand.

    The crowd stood in stunned silence. What they had just witnessed was beyondprehension.

    ¡°Dragon Lord?¡± After crushing the flood dragon halberd light, Chen Fan pressed forward through space, emitting rumbling noises, like he was a heavenly god. He charged toward the Third Dragon Lord and said, ¡°What a joke!¡±

    Chen Fan punched and the universe seemed to shatter.

    The terrifying punch was wrapped in iparably horrifying power and instantly erupted, sting toward the Third Dragon Lord. The sheer momentum behind it was enough to leave anyone paralyzed with fear.

    The Third Dragon Lord''s expression darkened, but a cold, mocking smile curled at the corners of his lips.

    He was the Third Dragon Lord, an invincible existence. How could he allow Chen Fan to challenge his prestige? Chen Fan''s audacity would be met with a brutal reckoning.

    Swinging the Flood Dragon Halberd, he unleashed a cold halberd light that was like a deathly glint. It destroyed Chen Fan¡¯s fist force.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>.¡± Chen Fan scoffed, unfazed. He continued advancing, his palms blurring as he unleashed a barrage of palm seals that descended like towering mountains upon the Third Dragon Lord.

    The Third Dragon Lord swung his Flood Dragon Halberd wildly. Halberd light shed, instantly tearing a wide crack open in Chen Fan¡¯s palm seals that were like heavy mountains and came rushing out, his aura shaking indescribably.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The two figures crossed paths in a blur of speed. A streak of fresh blood sttered through the air¡ªthe Third Dragon Lord''s Flood Dragon Halberd hadcerated Chen Fan''s palm.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body was iparably tough, allowing him to crush a Grade-5 treasure with his bare hands, the oue was different when facing a weapon wielded by someone of the Third Dragon Lord''s caliber.

    If it was in the hands of a weakling, even if Chen Fan stood still, they would not be able to injure him in the slightest.

    In the hands of a genius like the Third Dragon Lord, however, the power would be different.

    Chen Fan did not say a word. This kind of superficial injury could not be considered an injury to him at all. With his freakish recovery speed, the wound would heal very quickly.

    As Chen Fan stood there, a fleeting thought crossed his mind¡ªthis Third Dragon Lord was indeed formidable.

    Given his current strength, he was definitely on par with a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert. However, he couldn¡¯t gain an advantage over the Third Dragon Lord. His opponent was also a genius who could fight above his cultivation level.

    However, what Chen Fan did not realize was that the Third Dragon Lord was even more astounded.

    Rarely did he need to wield his weapon, and when he did, it was a sign that he was taking the fight with utmost seriousness.

    Typically, once his weapon was drawn, the fight would quickly end in his favor, often with his opponent meeting a swift and brutal death.

    Yet, during their recent sh, his attack, which had the power to split a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert in half, had only managed tocerate Chen Fan¡¯s palm.

    The Third Dragon Lord looked at Chen Fan calmly, seemingly thinking over something. ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I¡¯lle take your life next time!¡±

    With those words, the Third Dragon Lord moved swiftly, rescuing Zhang Hong and the others. In an instant, he swept them up and vanished, leaving the battlefield behind.

 Chapter 633 - Where the Sky Dragon Tokens Belong

    <h4>Chapter 633 - Where the Sky Dragon Tokens Belong</h4>

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I¡¯lle take your life next time!¡±

    Leaving those words behind, the Third Dragon Lord left with Zhang Hong and the others.

    The crowd remained baffled for a while, unsure why the usually overbearing Third Dragon Lord chose to leave at this moment. Could he really be afraid of Chen Fan?

    That didn¡¯t seem right!

    Everyone had seen their fight.

    Although Chen Fan was very powerful, as strong as a fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, the Third Dragon Lord was even stronger. He had even managed to hurt Chen Fan¡¯s palm.

    Given the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s tyrannical nature, shouldn¡¯t he be pushing on with his advantage, thoroughly suppressing Chen Fan and killing him?

    No one knew the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s thoughts. The crowd discussed among themselves, but no one came up with an urate guess.

    Chen Fan did not stop the Third Dragon Lord. After all, even if he wanted to stop him, it wouldn¡¯t be that easy.

    Reputation cast a long shadow. The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s fearsome reputation on the Ancient Trial Road was well-earned, and Chen Fan knew he wasn¡¯t yet an equal match.

    Besides, engaging in a brutal fight with the Third Dragon Lord before the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm opened would only serve others¡¯ interests.

    Chen Fan sensed that the Third Dragon Lord had reached the same conclusion¡ªit wouldn¡¯t be easy for him to defeat Chen Fan either.

    Rather than allowing others to gain from their fight, it made more sense to settle the score inside the microcosm.

    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect the Third Dragon Lord to leave. It¡¯s simply a miracle.¡±

    ¡°This youth is so powerful that even the Third Dragon Lord hesitated to fight him to the death. How impressive. Indeed, there is always someone better.¡±

    "He managed to hold his ground with just second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. That¡¯s unbelievably monstrous."

    ¡°It seems that another super genius has appeared on the Gen Road. If he survives, the True Martial Academy will surely take him under its wing, and his rise will be meteoric."

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, what a pity. I didn¡¯t expect them to stop fighting. If they had wounded each other badly, it would¡¯ve made the fight for opportunities in the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm much more interesting."

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd buzzed with discussion, their expressions a mix of awe and disappointment.

    After this battle, Chen Fan¡¯s name spread like a hurricane.

    Word quickly got around that someone dared to challenge the Dragon God Army alone and even went toe-to-toe with the Third Dragon Lord.

    The most astonishing part? Chen Fan was only in the second-level Divine Nascent realm.

    The entire Gen Road was immediately set abuzz with this news.

    The geniuses of various domains had all embarked on the Ancient Trial Roads. In their respective domains, they stood above the younger generation and basked in the infinite limelight. Wherever they went, they were the center of attention.

    But as the trial continued, thepetition grew fiercer, and only the strongest could survive. The once-glorious scenes faded away.

    On the Ancient Trial Roads, geniuses were asmon as ants. Standing out here was no easy feat unless one possessed extraordinary power. Only then could they carve a bloody path through the countlesspetitors.

    The three dragon lords of the Dragon God Army were such characters.

    With their tremendous strength, they had fought their way to the top and formed the Dragon God Army, dominating the Gen Road and imposing their will.

    Now, after he shed with the Third Dragon Lord, where he held his ground, Chen Fan¡¯s name spread far and wide.

    In a single night, he had made a name for himself on the Gen Road, drawing envy from many.

    Although the outside world was buzzing with talk about Chen Fan, he kept a low profile in the days that followed, as if he hadn¡¯t just faced off with the Third Dragon Lord.

    But while Chen Fan stayed quiet, ck me City was anything but.

    The fight for the nine Sky Dragon Tokens made the city even more chaotic.

    A day after Chen Fan entered seclusion, a piece of news spread.

    The Third Dragon Lord had seized another Sky Dragon Token. Now, he had four Sky Dragon Tokens.

    Having multiple Sky Dragon Tokens didn¡¯t seem to make much difference¡ªpossessing even one was enough to hold the initiative.

    However, the Dragon God Army was still continuously fighting for the Sky Dragon Tokens, making it clear that they intended to monopolize the opportunities within the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm.

    If they let the Dragon God Army have their way, then the others would not get a slice of the pie.

    Of course, achieving this wouldn''t be easy for them.

    The Ancient Trial Roads were filled with geniuses, and who could say when another talent, potentially even stronger than the Third Dragon Lord, might appear?

    Take Chen Fan, for example. Even the Third Dragon Lord hesitated to provoke him further without absolute confidence in victory.

    At this point, five of the Sky Dragon Tokens had already surfaced¡ªone in Chen Fan¡¯s possession and four with the Third Dragon Lord.

    Soon, news of the sixth Sky Dragon Token also came out. Surprisingly, it was actually in the hands of the ck me City¡¯s city lord.

    A revered elder of the City Lord Manor personally fought for the token. The Third Dragon Lord failed to gain any advantage over him and had no choice but to give up on the sixth Sky Dragon Token resentfully.

    This was also a very normal thing.

    Although the Dragon God Army was very strong, it was only among the younger generation.

    On the Ancient Trial Road, there were also many experts from the older generations. Those old monsters had been cultivating for centuries. The depth of their cultivation was simply unimaginable.

    Usually, they didn¡¯t step into such fights; when they did, they would definitely shake heaven and earth. Many young cultivators could not afford to mess with them.

    Not long after, news of the seventh Sky Dragon Token also came out. This token fell into the hands of the me King, Xiao Yan.

    It was said that in this battle for the Sky Dragon Token, Xiao Yan suppressed allpetitors with absolute strength, defeating them all and leaving freely.

    The me King, Xiao Yan, was a super genius born with a fire spirit body. He cultivated nine types of terrifying primeval mes and was very powerful.

    He had long since made a great name for himself on the Ancient Trial Road. He wasn¡¯t any weaker than the Dragon God Army¡¯s Three Great Dragon Lords.

    Thus, it was no surprise that he imed the seventh Sky Dragon Token with little fanfare.

    Following the appearance of the seventh Sky Dragon Token, the eighth one soon surfaced.

    This token was acquired by the Great Qin Empire¡¯s Heaven Supervisory Bureau.

    The Heaven Supervisory Bureau, as its name implied, meant to supervise all under the heavens. It was the Great Qin Empire¡¯srgest intelligence and executive agency. They acted as the eyes for the Great Qin Empire¡¯s emperor to supervise the world, and their authority was immense.

    The Heaven Supervisory Bureau was also extraordinarily powerful, with numerous experts among its ranks, including several Heavenly Star realm experts. This hinted at the vast strength of the Great Qin Empire.

    Leading the bureau this time was their Seventh Young Master, one of the Great Qin Empire¡¯s top young talents, groomed as a potential future head of the bureau.

 Chapter 634 - Seven Fiends Organization

    <h4>Chapter 634 - Seven Fiends Organization</h4>

    The Heaven Supervisory Bureau was more domineering than the Dragon God Army.

    The martial artists who vied with the bureau for the eighth Sky Dragon Token were ruthlessly killed by the bureau¡¯s formidable experts.

    That day was marked by a true ughter, with bodies scattered and rivers of blood flowing.

    Despite being renowned geniuses from various domains, they were mercilessly wiped out in battle, demonstrating the Heavenly Supervisory Bureau¡¯s fearsome approach to warfare.

    Although the Heavenly Supervisory Bureau¡¯s methods were brutal, no one dared to say a word.

    They not only boasted numerous experts but also had many bailiffs discreetly mingling among the crowd.

    No one could be sure if the person next to them was a bailiff. Speaking out of turn could lead to immediate intervention by the bureau¡¯s experts.

    The Heavenly Supervisory Bureau had more than ten thousand methods of torture; unfortunately, they just didn¡¯t have enough test subjects.

    The eighth Sky Dragon Token was stained with the blood of geniuses, so the whereabouts of the ninth token caused an uproar.

    The ninth Sky Dragon Token was imed by the Seven Fiends Organization, falling into the hands of Cao Yuan.

    He was a very powerful person who practiced an iparably domineering demonic cultivation technique, with an aura so ferocious it seemed to dominate everything around him.

    Soon after, information about the Seven Fiends Organization began to circte widely.

    The Seven Fiends Organization was not a group on the Gen Road; they hailed from an adjacent Ancient Trial Road known as the Kan Road. They were the Dragon God Army of the Kan Road.

    Legend had it that the Seven Fiends Organization was founded by seven top young experts who had dominated the Kan Road. Cao Yuan was the fifth fiend among them.

    Their appearance on the Gen Road was like throwing a bomb into ake, creating a massive stir.

    The True Martial Academy had opened eight Ancient Trial Roads, each divided among various forces. For example, the Gen Road was effectively under the control of the Dragon God Army, the strongest force on that road.

    Now, the Kan Road¡¯s Seven Fiends Organization hade to the Gen Road. What did that mean?

    Even though only the fifth fiend hade, it was uneptable, especially since this was a critical time for vying for the Sky Dragon Tokens. It felt like the Seven Fiends Organization was stepping on the Dragon God Army¡¯s toes and challenging their dominance.

    Everyone was eager to see how the Third Dragon Lord would respond.

    True to expectations, it wasn¡¯t long before the Third Dragon Lord issued an ultimatum: Cao Yuan must surrender the ninth Sky Dragon Token and leave the Gen Road with his organization.

    However, Cao Yuanpletely ignored the tyrannical deration, nearly making the Third Dragon Lord go crazy.

    The Third Dragon Lord''s prestige had already been challenged by Chen Fan, a neer who had appeared out of nowhere, and now he was being tantly ignored by Cao Yuan. This was simply pping him, the Third Dragon Lord, in the face.

    If things continued this way, it would be difficult for him to assert himself on the Gen Road in the future.

    Rumors spread that the Third Dragon Lord went to confront Cao Yuan. Some imed a fierce battle ensued, while others said the situation remained unresolved.

    Although the exact details were unclear, it seemed the Third Dragon Lord was unable to subdue Cao Yuan, leading to the stalemate.

    With this, all nine Sky Dragon Tokens had surfaced.

    Everyone was waiting for the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm to open.

    With the nine Sky Dragon Tokens, they could open the passage that led to the microcosm and search for opportunities within.

    Although many knew that Chen Fan possessed one of the Sky Dragon Tokens and was seemingly the weakestpared to others with tokens, no one dared to challenge him.

    After all, word of his fight against the Third Dragon Lord back then had spread like wildfire in the ck me City.

    Chen Fan was a top figure among the younger generation, no weaker than the Third Dragon Lord. Who would risk their life by trying to seize his token?

    With the nine Sky Dragon Tokens having found their respective owners, the Third Dragon Lord, as the leading figure on the Gen Road, took on the role of host. He summoned all the token holders to gather and prepare for the opening of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm.

    As the owner of one of the Sky Dragon Tokens, Chen Fan also received an invitation.

    Despite the Dragon God Army¡¯s evident displeasure with him, they had no choice but to include Chen Fan in the proceedings. Without all the token holders present, the process could not take ce.

    Chen Fan brought Qiu Yuexin to a mountain range outside the city, known as the Sleeping Dragon Mountain Range. This area, once home to the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold, was connected to its microcosm.

    By the time Chen Fan and Qiu Yuexin arrived, the entire mountain range was already bustling with noise and excitement.

    Many people wanted to enter the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm andpete for opportunities. Although they didn¡¯t have a Sky Dragon Token and couldn¡¯t be the first to enter, they could at least enter and search for opportunities.

    No matter how dominant the Third Dragon Lord and his allies were, they couldn¡¯tpletely exclude these people.

    After all, even ants could bite an elephant to death if there were enough of them. Pushing the masses too hard could lead to a bacsh that even the Dragon God Army would struggle to manage.

    Incurring the public¡¯s wrath was a risky and troublesome prospect.

    As a result, the Third Dragon Lord and his allies chose to overlook the crowds. After entering the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm, whatever one could obtain would depend on their own strength.

    It wasn¡¯t only the younger generation who wanted to enter the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm; many seasoned experts also sought to stake their im and seize opportunities for themselves.

    The allure of cultivation resources was irresistible to all.

    Among the younger generation, Chen Fan had made himself known after the battle against the Third Dragon Lord. His portrait was also circted among many people.

    Thus, many people recognized him as soon as he arrived.

    ¡°He¡¯s here. Chen Fan is here.¡±

    ¡°It really is him. How unexpected. He forced the Third Dragon Lord back with only second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. Impressive.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, that battle doesn¡¯t count for much. The real big battle will only break out inside the microcosm. Just wait and see. Third Dragon Lord won¡¯t be so nice after entering the microcosm.¡±

    ¡°You have a point. Although Chen Fan isn¡¯t weak, he is indeed a little weaker whenpared to Third Dragon Lord and the others.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people broke out into murmurs when they saw Chen Fan arrive.

    Now, Chen Fan was more or less a famous figure on the Gen Road.

    Chen Fan did not care about their discussions at all. He went straight to a tall peak that pierced the sky and stood there, waiting quietly.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, a wind-breaking noise rang out, and a pleasantly surprised voice reached his ears.

    ¡°Chen Fan, it really is you.¡±

    A figure flew over and descended in front of Chen Fan, smiling. ¡°You¡¯re quite famous these days. I thought it was just someone with the same name as you. But lo and behold, it really is you.¡±

    This neer was Xiao Zhen, who formed a deep friendship with Chen Fan on the Hidden Dragon Ind.

 Chapter 635 - Heroes Gathered

    <h4>Chapter 635 - Heroes Gathered</h4>

    ¡°Xiao Zhen!¡± Chen Fan was also surprised. A smile appeared on his face and he greeted, ¡°Long time no see.¡±

    Xiao Zhen smiled, ¡°It has indeed been a long time, but I didn¡¯t expect it to be really you. Not only did the Hidden Dragon Ind fail to conceal your brilliance, even on the Ancient Trial Road, where geniuses are as abundant as the raindrops, you still shine brightly.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled and replied, ¡°It¡¯s not something I seek out, but it seems there are always people eager to challenge me, leaving me with no choice but to respond."

    ¡°Haha.¡± Xiao Zhenughed out loud and said, ¡°That¡¯s just how it should be. You know, if you want to catch the eye of the higher-ups at the True Martial Academy, making a name for yourself on the Ancient Trial Road is crucial. With the reputation you¡¯ve built, you¡¯re well on your way to bing at least an inner sect disciple when you arrive."

    The two continued their conversation, clearly enjoying each other''spany.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Suddenly, a powerful aura swept through the sky.

    A handsome young man, dressed in fine brocade, appeared, gently fanning himself with a folding fan in a manner reminiscent of a refined gentleman.

    He flew in on a beam of rainbow light, followed closely by a dozen tall and imposing men, each exuding formidable strength, all in the fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Seventh Young Master is here!¡±

    ¡°It really is him. His reputation as the Ruthless Seventh Young Master has spread far and wide across the Ancient Trial Road. He might look all refined and schrly, but he¡¯s a ruthless and terrifying figure."

    ¡°Hehe, without being ruthless, how could he have stood out in a ce like the Heaven Supervisory Bureau? He¡¯s only the Seventh Young Master, after all. There¡¯s still the Sixth Young Master, Fifth Young Master, and so on above him. All of them are vicious and merciless people with great ambition who kill without blinking an eye. No matter if it¡¯s their strength or capability, they are all outstanding.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true. Let alone Seventh Young Master, those burly men with him aren¡¯t simple, either. Each one possesses deep and formidable strength, truly terrifying experts. There are even two fifth-level Divine Nascent realm experts among them, <i>tsk tsk</i>.¡±

    ¡°I heard through the grapevine that the Seventh Young Master wanted to undergo the trial on another Ancient Road. But with the emergence of the microcosm, he decided to turn the Gen Road on its head instead."

    ¡°That¡¯s right, the Great Qin Empire¡¯s Heaven Supervisory Bureau is a major power in its own right. With him here, there¡¯s bound to be a fierce sh with the Dragon God Army over the opportunities in the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold. The sparks that fly from their collision are sure to be intense."

    ¡°I haven¡¯t given much thought to that. I just hope I can find some natural treasures within the microcosm to raise my cultivation.¡±

    Although many people nearby were discussing, they kept their voices down.

    The Seventh Young Master had already earned a fearsome reputation for being ruthless and merciless. Should they inadvertently incur his wrath, they might not live to regret it.

    ¡°So, that¡¯s the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Seventh Young Master? I¡¯ve also heard about his fierce reputation,¡± said Xiao Zhen calmly, looking at that group.

    Chen Fan also looked over and said, ¡°He is indeed a formidable character. I¡¯m afraid thepetition inside the microcosm would be a bloody storm.¡±

    He felt a slight unease in his heart. Although the Seventh Young Master hadn¡¯t brought many people with him, each one was an elite powerhouse.

    With two fifth-level Divine Nascent realm experts, eight fourth-level Divine Nascent realm, and the Seventh Young Master himself, who possessed extraordinary strength, this was a fearsome group.

    Chen Fan was confident he could handle the Seventh Young Master in a one-on-one confrontation, facing his entire entourage would undoubtedly be troublesome.

    Shortly after the Seventh Young Master arrived, another group of experts descended from the sky, encircling a figure radiating an unfathomable aura.

    This aura belonged to a ck-d elder with an aquiline nose and eyes as sharp as a falcon¡¯s, asionally shing with a menacing gleam.

    ¡°The City Lord Manor¡¯s people are here. That ck-clothed elder is the revered elder of the City Lord Manor. Apparently, he once saved the city lord¡¯s life; since then, the city lord has treated him as an esteemed guest. His strength is unfathomable.¡±

    ¡°How truly terrifying. I didn¡¯t expect the city lord manor to have such a powerful patron. No wonder the Third Dragon Lord couldn¡¯t gain the upper hand against him."

    ¡°Although the Third Dragon Lord is powerful, he¡¯s still young¡ªa king among the younger generation. The revered elder, on the other hand, has cultivated for centuries, making his depth of power difficult for most toprehend. It only makes sense that the Third Dragon Lord suffered a loss in his hands.¡±

    As the City Lord Manor¡¯s entourage arrived, the crowd cast their gazes over one after another. The volume of their discussion also became a little louder, in contrast to the earlier subdued murmurs about the Seventh Young Master.

    ¡°Just one microcosm drew out all these old monsters who were hiding deeply. Thepetition this time, <i>tsk tsk</i>, people like us simply have no business with it. We can only pick up some scraps for ourselves,¡± said Xiao Zhen.

    He had obtained a Heavenly Star realm expert¡¯s legacy and had advanced to the second-level Divine Nascent realm. He would be a great expert in the Hong Domain, but here, he really didn¡¯t have much presence.

    Martial artists like him could be found everywhere here.

    ¡°No need to undersell yourself. These people only cultivated for a longer time than us. Surpassing them is only a matter of time,¡± Chen Fan said with a smile, sizing up that revered elder.

    <i>Whoosh, whoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, an extremely powerful nefarious qi rippled in space.

    It seemed like a great devil was rushing over, his demonic aura overwhelming and sucking in people¡¯s minds. The sheer malevolence of his presence quickly drew the attention of everyone around.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    The sound of air being sliced open rang out as a slightly tanned youth soared through the sky, leading a group of followers. He did not attempt to conceal the nefarious qi; his aura was so oppressive it seemed to shake the very heavens.

    ¡°It¡¯s the members of the Seven Fiends Organization!¡±

    ¡°That tanned guy is Cao Yuan. It is said that he obtained the legacy of a demonic path expert and cultivates an incredibly domineering demonic cultivation technique. His strength is so great that even the Third Dragon Lord returned without managing to aplish anything.¡±

    ¡°These people are too arrogant. They¡¯vee to our Gen Road, yet they show no restraint, unting their auras as they please. Are they trying to provoke us, Gen Road martial artists?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re too detestable!¡±

    Despite the irritation many felt at the overpowering auras released by the Seven Fiends Organization, no one dared to act. After all, like the Seventh Young Master¡¯s group, every one of Cao Yuan¡¯s followers was an elite in their own right.

    <i>Buzz, buzz!</i>

    Just as Cao Yuan and the others arrived, before they could stand firmly, the temperature in space suddenly soared. A terrifying heat wave swept over from afar, and the space distorted fiercely.

    ¡°So hot!¡±

    ¡°My god, what is happening? Why did the temperature suddenly skyrocket?¡±

    ¡°Could it be that the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm is about to appear?¡±

    ¡°You fool, look over there. There, look, the me King, Xiao Yan is here!¡±

    As the crowd murmured in confusion, a figure appeared in the sky. He moved swiftly, and nine mes of different colors swirled around him, creating a dazzling spectacle.

    These nine mes were gorgeous, but the terrifying heat they emitted told the crowd that these mes were very dangerous and could easily burn everything in a thousand-kilometer radius around them.

    The me King, Xiao Yan, had arrived!

 Chapter 636 - Old Devils Attacks

    <h4>Chapter 636 - Old Devils Attacks</h4>

    me King Xiao Yan''s arrival made the temperature in the area soar. The crowd felt like they were being roasted in a furnace.

    ¡°Heavens, what kind of me is that scary?!¡±

    ¡°You fool, those are the nine primeval mes, born and nurtured by heaven and earth. They''re unbelievably powerful, capable of instantly turning martial artists to ash. My god, a martial artist would be lucky to refine even one primeval me, but he¡¯s refined nine. Truly terrifying.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the big deal? He was born with a fire spirit body. Primeval mes are very terrifying for others; for him, they are nothing. A fire spirit body is the king when ites to ying with fire.¡±

    ¡°Now, aside from the Third Dragon Lord, every other holder of the Sky Dragon Tokens has arrived.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, only the Dragon God Army is missing. How exciting.¡±

    The crowd¡¯s excitement grew as they watched Xiao Yan make his entrance.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze alsonded on Xiao Yan. He was no stranger to primeval mes. After all, he had once helped his senior sister, Qin Yao, acquire the Bone Spirit mes¡ªa rare type of primeval me.

    He could feel the destructive force swirling within Xiao Yan, a power that could obliterate heaven and earth. If released, the mes would reduce everything to ash.

    Born with a fire spirit body and mastering nine primeval mes, Xiao Yan¡¯smand over fire was truly terrifying.

    The primeval mes of heaven and earth themselves contained very terrifying energy, and Xiao Yan was in control of nine of them. This alone proved the overwhelming power of someone born with a fire spirit body.

    Among the people present, Xiao Yan was the biggest threat to Chen Fan.

    Suddenly, a cold, indifferent voice pierced the air, followed by a powerful force crashing down toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan? Hand over your Sky Dragon Token and I¡¯ll spare your life!¡±

    The attack came out of nowhere, as unexpected as a sneak assault.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly, responding with a palm strike. He unleashed the Northern Star Reaper Hand, shattering the iing force. He shouted coldly, ¡°Who''s the coward hiding in the shadows? Show yourself!"

    Chen Fan stomped his foot and shot into the sky. A terrifying aura erupted from him, suppressing heaven and earth. He stood proudly in the sky like a battle god that dominated thends, his gaze sharp.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The winds and the clouds surged. A figure, covered in armor, appeared, only their pair of cold, ruthless eyes could be seen.

    This armored man was carrying an iron spear, emanating an unimaginable murderous aura. It was impossible to know how many lives he''d taken to cultivate such deadly energy.

    He rode a savage demonic beast, its fangs gleaming with a menacing light. The creature exuded a crushing pressure¡ªit was a peerless fourth-level Divine Nascent realm beast.

    As soon as this fearsome sight unfolded, the crowd¡¯s attention locked onto the scene, heads turning in unison.

    ¡°Chen Fan, hand over your Sky Dragon Token. With your mere second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation, you¡¯re not qualified to hold onto a Sky Dragon Token. If you don¡¯t, you won¡¯t make it out alive today!¡± said the armored man icily.

    His voice was devoid of emotions as if he was a killing machine. Killing intent surged from him, and heaven and earth suddenly turned cold.

    He was a terrifying expert. His mount was already in the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm, while he had reached the fifth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Chen Fan looked at this armored man with an icy gaze. His indifferent voice resounded in all directions as he said, ¡°Anyone else who wants my Sky Dragon Token? Step forward, all of you. I want to see what kind of qualifications you snakes have to snatch my Sky Dragon Token!¡±

    ¡°<i>Gaga</i>, the youngsters nowadays are so arrogant. In that case, this old devil ising out!¡±

    A peculiar voice rang out the moment Chen Fan¡¯s words fell. Then, ck qi surged. An elder with a withered figure appeared.

    ¡°Withered Old Devil, he is Withered Old Devil! He made a great name for himself in the Great Qin Empire two hundred years ago.¡± Someone with sharp eyes quickly recognized the Withered Old Devil.

    ¡°Withered Old Devil, the Sky Dragon Token belongs to me. How dare you fight with me over it!¡± That armored man¡¯s eyes went wide with rage. A terrifying aura pressed toward Withered Old Devil.

    ¡°And why shouldn¡¯t I fight for the Sky Dragon Token? Iron-armored Old Man, you¡¯re not qualified to threaten me,¡± Withered Old Devil replied coolly.

    With a wave of his hand, the overwhelming aura from Iron-armored Old Man vanished without a trace.

    Both men were terrifying experts, their strength on par with each other.

    ¡°<i>Gege</i>, Withered Old Devil, Iron-armored Old Man, you old farts, how about yielding this Sky Dragon Token to this granny?¡±

    Suddenly, a light, bell-likeughter rang out, sweet enough to lower anyone¡¯s guard. A petite figure appeared¡ªa wrinkled elder, but no taller than a seven or eight-year-old child.

    Her arrival left many with strange expressions. From her voice, they had expected a delicate beauty but were instead greeted by her unusual appearance.

    ¡°Tianshan Childish Granny, how unexpected. Even you came.¡±

    Withered Old Devil¡¯s eyes shed with seriousness. Clearly, even Tianshan Childish Granny was no simple opponent.

    Tianshan Childish Grannyughed delicately and said, ¡°What, only you stinky men are allowed to be here, and I¡¯m not? In my opinion, you two big, old men shouldn¡¯t fight with me. Little brother, will you hand your Sky Dragon Token to granny?¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Tianshan Childish Granny and felt a chill.

    She had one foot in her grave, yet she was still pretending to be young here. How shameless.

    Chen Fan looked at Tianshan Childish Granny and said indifferently, ¡°Old freak, still acting young at your age. Have some dignity, will you?¡±

    Tianshan Childish Granny¡¯s expression darkened immediately. Her eyes filled with resentment as she coldly said, "You¡¯ve got quite the sharp tongue, little guy. Very well, when I capture you, I¡¯ll teach you a good lesson. I¡¯ll make sure you lick my toes every day."

    Chen Fan shook his head, swept his gaze across, and said, ¡°You¡¯re all here for my Sky Dragon Token? Very well. Any more snakes around? All of you,e out together!¡±

    He waited, but no one else appeared.

    With a cold smile, Chen Fan looked at Tianshan Childish Granny and the other two. ¡°Looks like it¡¯s only the three of you. It¡¯s a little disappointing. I was expecting some real powerhouses to show up. Oh well, I suppose this will do. You three geezers should¡¯ve stayed in your nests, waiting for your death. But since you¡¯re here, I¡¯ll kindly send you on your way."

 Chapter 637 - Killed Overwhelmingly

    <h4>Chapter 637 - Killed Overwhelmingly</h4>

    As soon as those words left Chen Fan¡¯s mouth, Withered Old Devil and the others¡¯ expressions became iparably chilling.

    ¡°Brat, you¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    Iron-armored Old Man was the first to lose his patience. His ferocious beast lunged at Chen Fan, its sharp ws¡ªsharp as divine weapons¡ªtearing through the air as it swiped ruthlessly at Chen Fan¡¯s face.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Simultaneously, a loud whoosh filled the air as an iron spear, shrouded in murderous qi, thrust toward Chen Fan.

    The eerie sounds of ghosts wailing and wolves howling seemed to echo as if the souls who had died unjustly at the hands of Iron-armored Old Man werementing.

    Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s attack came without any warning, as swift as a gale.

    Nearby martial artists'' faces turned pale, many of themmenting silently.

    Chen Fan¡¯s potential was limitless, on par with the Third Dragon Lord. Yet, at just in his early twenties, he was still far younger than the seasoned Iron-armored Old Man, who had decades more cultivation experience.

    Facing these three notorious old devils from the Great Qin Empire, Chen Fan was in grave danger. The oppressive aura bearing down on him could intimidate even second or third-level Divine Nascent realm experts.

    Chen Fan instantly sprang into action, charging like a lightning bolt. His right leg struck out with the force of an ancient divine whip. The space trembled nonstop, and the air exploded loudly.

    ¡°<i>Aooo</i>!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s kick made the front paws of Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s mount explode. The powerful force surged inside the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm beast, wreaking havoc.

    Simultaneously, he used the Purgatory Divine Halberd to deflect Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s thrust. Then, Chen Fan thrust his arm forward violently, like a blue dragoning out of the sea, about to hit Iron-armored Old Man.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd mmed into Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s armor, creating a sharp explosion and sending sparks flying.

    Unable to withstand the sheer power, Iron-armored Old Man was hurled backward, his iron armor cracking loudly as he went.

    <i>Hiss, hiss.</i>

    The crowd gasped in shock. They hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to be so strong, easily sending Iron-armored Old Man flying with a single thrust. He even killed the vicious mount with a single attack. Iron-armored Old Man had suffered a decisive defeat.

    ¡°Can¡¯t even withstand a single blow!¡± Holding the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, Chen Fan was like a battle god, standing proudly in the air, his clothes fluttering in the wind, looking confident and at ease.

    As Iron-armored Old Man regained his footing, his shattered armor finally revealed his true figure. He stared at Chen Fan in disbelief.

    Too terrifying.

    The strength Chen Fan disyed was far beyond what a second-level Divine Nascent realm martial artist should possess.

    In that brief moment, his mount was killed, and he was also sent flying with a thrust. If it wasn¡¯t for him wearing the iron armor, he too would have been killed just now.

    The cold smiles on Withered Old Devil and Tianshan Childish Granny¡¯s faces also stiffened, their expressions bing grave and dark.

    Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming power was undeniable, leaving the three old devils feeling a crushing sense of pressure.

    Despite their inner turmoil, these veteran experts¡ªrenowned for centuries¡ªquickly suppressed their fear. A fierce, icy gleam flickered in their eyes.

    They had already crossed Chen Fan, so they only had one recourse: kill him.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    The three of them rushed toward Chen Fan together, unleashing their killing moves. Streams of terrifying forces tore through the sky, sting toward Chen Fan. The sheer destructive force could obliterate even a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>.¡± Chen Fan, unfazed, snorted coldly. A terrifying golden aura erupted from him, shining brilliantly as he brandished the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    With one powerful sh, a deadly light cleaved through the sky, effortlessly breaking apart theirbined attack.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Chen Fan followed up with a horizontal sweep of the halberd, sending a devastating force crashing into the three old devils. The impact nearly split them in half,unching them backward as they spewed blood.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡±

    Iron-armored Old Man and the two others¡¯ eyeballs nearly fell out in shock, looking at Chen Fan in disbelief.

    ¡°Nothing is impossible. Go ask around in hell.¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, his murderous intent chilling the air. In a sh, he lunged at Iron-armored Old Man.

    A deadly light ignited on the Purgatory Divine Halberd as an unstoppable force descended.

    ¡°Die!¡± Iron-armored Old Man roared angrily, ignoring Chen Fan¡¯s sh. He stabbed straight out with his iron spear, intent on bringing Chen Fan down in a final, ruthless gamble.

    He did not believe that Chen Fan would dare to trade injuries with him.

    As long as Chen Fan backed down, he would bring out all sorts of methods like a raging storm.

    But he had miscalcted.

    Chen Fan¡¯s unupied left hand caught Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s iron spear in a sh. No matter how much strength Iron-armored Old Man poured into it, the spear refused to budge.

    ¡°You want to trade lives with me? You¡¯re not worthy!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice rang out as he thrust the Purgatory Divine Halberd forward, unimpeded, straight toward Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s face.

    ¡°No!¡± Iron-armored Old Man let out a horrified roar of fury. He quickly dropped his iron spear and tried to retreat with everything he had.

    He didn¡¯t want to die¡ªnot like this. He had dominated the Great Qin Empire for centuries and still longed to taste more of life¡¯s pleasures. He hadn¡¯t yet ascended to the Heavenly Star realm, and now a mere youth was about to cut his life short?

    s, it was toote.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd pierced through his be. The terrifying force scrambled his divine nascent that resided in his be to bits, killing Iron-armored Old Man.

    It all happened in the span of a single breath.

    Withered Old Devil and Tianshan Childish Granny stood frozen, their eyes wide in disbelief. None of them had expected Chen Fan to kill Iron-armored Old Man so quickly.

    The two immediately realized they had messed with an iparably terrifying figure and were thinking of retreating in their hearts.

    They had never thought that a second-level Divine Nascent realm brat would actually be this terrifying. Also, Chen Fan had caught Iron-armored Old Man¡¯s terrifying attack with his bare hands. What kind of physique and strength was that?

    Theirbat prowess was only on par with Iron-armored Old Man, and Chen Fan had already killed him. They were utterly horrified.

    The three of them had treated Chen Fan as prey; now, the tables had turned.

    It wasn¡¯t like they had never heard of Chen Fan¡¯s reputation. However, they still underestimated him.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn next!¡±

 Chapter 638 - Getting Rid of the Snakes

    <h4>Chapter 638 - Getting Rid of the Snakes</h4>

    Withered Old Devil and Tianshan Childish Granny were stricken with fear, their thoughts already turning toward retreat.

    They were infamous old devils who had dominated the Great Qin Empire for over a century. Their very names were enough to strike terror into the hearts of most. But now, for the first time, they themselves were the ones terrified... of Chen Fan.

    This had never happened before!

    However, Chen Fan did not intend to allow them to regret their choices.

    Some people only learned through harsh lessons, and on the unforgiving Ancient Trial Road, Chen Fan needed to assert his dominance. With the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm about to open, he had to make an example of these so-called experts to prevent further trouble when he entered the ruins.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn next!¡± Chen Fan looked at Withered Old Devil and Tianshan Childish Granny indifferently. The murderous qi around him formed a gale, howling and thoroughly shrouding the two, making them feel a chill all over.

    A sense of dread washed over the pair.

    The three of them had killed many with ease and without remorse, spreading their infamy far and wide. However, neither could confidently say they had the strength to take down the other. And now, they had just watched Chen Fan kill Iron-armored Old Man with terrifying ease.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Before they could act, Chen Fan moved.

    The space shook as if the lord of heaven was enraged. Chen Fan charged straight ahead, causing a chain of explosions in the air, his momentum iparably ferocious.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan violently stabbed at the Withered Old Devil. It was as if the heavens would copse by the inch under this attack. Withered Old Devil was nearly paralyzed under the terrifying pressure, his movements sluggish,pletely restrained by the aura.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan thrust his left palm violently. A gigantic golden palm covered the sky, ruthlessly suppressing Tianshan Childish Granny.

    Arge area of the space instantly copsed, trying to bury Tianshan Childish Granny.

    ¡°You abominable brat, you¡¯re too arrogant!¡±

    Withered Old Devil and Tianshan Childish Granny were both furious beyond words.

    The audacity of Chen Fan, attacking them both at once, was beyond infuriating. Killing Iron-armored Old Man didn¡¯t give him the right to be this bold in front of them!

    With a snarl, Withered Old Devil brandished a demonic saber, dark qi swirling around it. Channeling his cultivation to the limit, he unleashed a devastating sh.

    The earth trembled, and the image of a monstrous devil loomed ominously.

    On the other hand, Tianshan Childish Granny gripped a cane with a chilling skull at its top, its eerie presence enough to make anyone¡¯s skin crawl.

    She violently thrust the cane toward the gigantic golden palm. The space seemed to be shattered. A terrifying force erupted, cracking the gigantic golden palm open by the inch.

    Chen Fan ignored it, however. The Purgatory Divine Halberd shattered the approaching devil silhouette, then mmed down violently. A crisp ng rang out, and the demonic qi on the demonic saber in Withered Old Devil¡¯s hand was dispersed.

    Immediately afterward, the sound of bone breaking rang out.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack.</i>

    The bones in Withered Old Devil¡¯s arms shattered. Unable to withstand Chen Fan¡¯s blow, his hands were crushed.

    Such was the terrifying might of the Hegemonic Golden Body. Not only was it imprable, but the strength it held was also overwhelming.

    As Tianshan Childish Granny¡¯s cane mmed into him, it was as though the hardest metal in the heavens had collided with him.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The sound of the cane striking Chen Fan echoed like metal against metal, but the result was far from what Tianshan Childish Granny had expected.

    Chen Fan remained still, golden light shimmering around him, his indomitable aura undisturbed. The recoil from the failed strike tore the webbing of her hand, leaving her stunned.

    ¡°How could this happen?¡± Tianshan Childish Granny was scared out of her wits, her eyeballs trembling chaotically.

    Her cane was a Grade-5 treasure. It could pulverize anything in its path. Not even iron could withstand its force, yet it barely made a mark on Chen Fan.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, not even qualified to scratch my itch!¡±

    Pulling his hand back, Chen Fan grabbed Tianshan Childish Granny¡¯s cane. As he put some force into his grip, the Grade-5 treasure shattered. Tianshan Childish Granny was scared out of her wit and retreated in a hurry.

    ¡°Scary! Too scary!¡±

    ¡°Is he even a human? He is like a god or a devil¡¯s incarnate! My god! How did he cultivate something so monstrous?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder he can fight a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert. His physique is too frightening. He¡¯s simply inhuman.¡±

    The crowd was left speechless, their shock palpable.

    Even Xiao Yan, Seventh Young Master, and the other elite onlookers narrowed their eyes, watching Chen Fan with an intensity that reflected the disbelief flickering within them.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan wed out. The Northern Star Reaper Hand covered the sky. The massive hand, with its three sky-piercing fingers, descended like a harbinger of death, exuding an aura of annihtion. The sheer pressure made the air tremble.

    Withered Old Devil, already broken in body and spirit from Chen Fan¡¯s earlier assault, was utterly defenseless. His shattered arms hung limp, and his mind was clouded by fear.

    He also didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to be unfazed by Tianshan Childish Granny¡¯s attack. In an instant, he was struck and became a mist of blood. Not even his divine nascent managed to escape.

    Behind Chen Fan, Tianshan Childish Granny let out a shriek of pure terror.

    The deaths of Iron-armored Old Man and Withered Old Devil¡ªtwo fearsome figures renowned for their savagery¡ªhad reduced her to a trembling wreck. In front of Chen Fan, their vicious reputations were meaningless. Compared to his merciless methods, they were nothing.

    She turned to flee, but Chen Fan moved like a whirlwind, his figure a blur of unstoppable force. In the blink of an eye, he appeared before her, cutting off her escape.

    Tianshan Childish Granny¡¯s face was filled with horror.

    Chen Fan was too terrifying. This was an absolute killing god. Why did she have to mess with such a killing god?

    However, she no longer had the chance to regret it. She couldn¡¯t even resist and was blown up by Chen Fan with a palm strike, leaving no corpse behind.

    Heaven and earth fell silent.

    Martial artists who had been watching were frozen in ce, their mouths agape in disbelief. The only sound was the collective gasps as they struggled toprehend what they had just witnessed.

    Chen Fan was truly too terrifying. He had killed three old devils who had dominated the Great Qin Empire like he had killed three ants.

    Who would still dare to look down on Chen Fan¡¯s second-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation?

    The three peerless old devils were experts in the fifth-level Divine Nascent realm. They had roamed the world unhindered for centuries and made great names for themselves. However, today, they messed with a frightening foe and were met with a tragic end.

    Finally, the crowd understood why the Third Dragon Lord had to retreat back then.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level was low, hisbat strength was iparably terrifying. He was most likely not any inferior to the Third Dragon Lord.

 Chapter 639 - Microcosm Opens

    <h4>Chapter 639 - Microcosm Opens</h4>

    ¡°Frightening, too frightening!¡±

    ¡°So this is Chen Fan¡¯s strength? It¡¯s no wonder he dared to challenge the Dragon God Army alone. With such tremendous strength, even I could do it. Why would I even fear them then?¡±

    ¡°The three so-called peerless old devils thought Chen Fan would be an easy target due to his cultivation. But he turned out to be a wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing. They all met their ends in his hand, <i>tsk tsk</i>.¡±

    ¡°What a monster! This is what true power looks like.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd stared at Chen Fan, their expressions a mix of awe and fear.

    Many had only heard rumors about his battle with the Third Dragon Lord. They had presumed that the Third Dragon Lord returned empty-handed because he didn¡¯t want a full-scale fight.

    Now, they saw the truth: Even if the Third Dragon Lord had chosen to fight back then, could he have defeated Chen Fan?

    Highly unlikely!

    Seeing Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming strength up close erased any doubts.

    Even though he was only in the second-level Divine Nascent realm, no one dared to look down on him.

    The three so-called peerless old devils learned that lesson toote. They were already regretting it in their graves.

    ¡°Impressive, I didn¡¯t expect someone like that to show up on the Gen Road. Things are about to get a lot more interesting.¡±

    Xiao Yan¡¯s smile widened as nine differently colored mes danced in his palm.

    Seventh Young Master, Cao Yuan, and the others now looked at Chen Fan with newfound respect, any trace of scorn long gone.

    They also hadn¡¯t been too happy that someone like Chen Fan, only at the second level of the Divine Nascent realm, had a Sky Dragon Token. But after witnessing his power firsthand, they couldn¡¯t deny he deserved it.

    With such strength, he was bound to be one of their mainpetitors in the microcosm.

    As Chen Fannded on the mountain peak, hundreds of awe-struck eyes followed him, but his face remained calm as if nothing had just happened.

    ¡°Amazing,¡± Xiao Zhen murmured, feeling so overwhelmed that he nearly knelt on the spot.

    When the three old devils had made their move, Xiao Zhen felt worried for Chen Fan. But in a matter of moments, they were dead, their wretched lives snuffed out as easily as a candle me.

    Qiu Yuexin¡¯s pretty eyes were also trembling.

    She had personally witnessed Chen Fan undergoing his divine nascent tribtion and knew that he was no weakling. Still, she hadn¡¯t expected him to be so powerful. It was overwhelming, leaving her with an unsettling sense of defeat.

    Was the gap between geniuses really this wide?

    She had recently advanced to the second-level Divine Nascent realm, but now that joy was gone. The distance between her and Chen Fan seemed to grow wider by the moment.

    Suddenly, another group descended¡ªthe Third Dragon Lord and his followers.

    They were filled with icy killing intent. Their faces were cold and pale, and they were soaked in blood, clear signs they had just emerged from a fierce battle.

    It wasn¡¯t just Chen Fan who had faced an ambush; the Dragon God Army had been attacked as well.

    Many people in the surroundings looked at Chen Fan and then at the Third Dragon Lord. They sucked in cold breaths as they realized just how powerful the younger generation had be.

    ¡°Come, let¡¯s go over,¡± Chen Fan said, ncing at the Third Dragon Lord before flying off with Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin. They soonnded on the mountainside.

    This area was a tnd, with sand blowing everywhere. Through the gusts of wind, they could faintly make out an old za beneath them, once the heart of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold.

    In ancient times, the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold had been a thriving, top-tier sect, but now, only ruins remained.

    On the za, the Dragon God Army was crowded around the Third Dragon Lord, exuding a sense of superiority as if they were gods looking down on mortals, their arrogance palpable.

    Several corpsesy scattered in front of the Dragon God Army¡ªveteran cultivators who had once been infamous. They were all in the fifth-level Divine Nascent realm, but they had all died at the hands of the Dragon God Army.

    Though the ambush Chen Fan faced involved fewer enemies, the Dragon God Army had been attacked by a muchrger number of old devils.

    However, the Third Dragon Lord had killed them all. He truly had gained his fierce reputation from a bloody path, proving why he was worthy of the dragon lord title.

    On the left of the Dragon God Army was the group from the City Lord Manor, led by their revered elder. They did not meet with any ambushes from any old devils.

    To the right of the Dragon God Army was the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Seventh Young Master and his men.

    The area in front of them was simrly clean. Evidently, not even those famous old devils dared to challenge the Heaven Supervisory Bureau.

    On the side of the Seven Fiends Organization, several corpses could also be seen. They had also met with ambushes, but those people failed in their attempt.

    As for me King Xiao Yan, his appearance was clean.

    ¡°Since everyone is here, let¡¯s begin,¡± said the Third Dragon Lord indifferently, not even sparing Chen Fan a nce as if he was a dead man not worth his attention.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a loud rumble echoed across the area.

    A massive gateway materialized on the open ground, featuring nine keyholes shaped like sky dragons, clearly visible for all to see.

    A wave of ancient, deste aura swept over them. It felt as though a long-dormant power had been unleashed, rushing skyward.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    Above the gateway, a sky dragon¡¯s silhouette appeared, its immense presence flooding the area. With a thunderous roar, it shook the very heavens.

    ¡°It¡¯s here! The Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm has revealed itself. Get ready, everyone.¡±

    Eyes lit up across the crowd, burning with anticipation.

    ¡°Let¡¯s do it,¡± said the Third Dragon Lord indifferently. He waved his hand, and four Sky Dragon Tokens appeared, which he quickly inserted into four of the keyholes.

    Chen Fan and the others also took out their Sky Dragon Tokens and inserted them into the keyholes.

    <i>Buzz, buzz.</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As if awakened, the enormous gateway began shaking violently. Deafening noises rang out and it looked like it was about to copse.

    Finally, an earth-shakingmotion rang out.

    With a thunderous crash, the gateway slowly opened. Between the two towering doors hung a curtain of white light, radiating an ancient, deste aura.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Chen Fan shouted and was the first to rush out.

    Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin also shot out like lightning, following closely behind him. Light shot out from Chen Fan¡¯s Sky Dragon Token and enveloped the trio.

    The Third Dragon Lord, Xiao Yan, and the others also sprang into motion, rushing toward the gateway like bolts of lightning.

    The gateway wasn¡¯t fully open yet, but it didn¡¯t matter. With their Sky Dragon Tokens, they could enter slightly ahead of the rest, giving them a chance to im some advantages.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    In the blink of an eye, Chen Fan, the Third Dragon Lord, and the others rushed through the doors almost simultaneously, enveloped in light, and vanished into the white space beyond.

    Some onlookers tried to follow, but as soon as they touched the white space, they let out horrified screams before being engulfed by the shadow of a sky dragon.

    A wave of fear swept through the crowd. Those without Sky Dragon Tokens had no choice but to wait anxiously for the gateway to fully open before they could enter.

 Chapter 640 - Breaking Through Together

    <h4>Chapter 640 - Breaking Through Together</h4>

    As soon as Chen Fan¡¯s group passed through the gateway, they felt as if the world around them vanished, leaving only a void of primal chaos.

    Momentster, they experienced violent spatial distortions, seemingly wanting to tear them apart.

    But just as suddenly as it had started, the sensation disappeared.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The distorted space disappeared, and all they saw was a white expanse for a moment.

    They had entered the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm.

    Before them now stretched a deste, barren expanse, with colossal mountains stretching endlessly.

    While many microcosms were lush grotto heavens and sanctuaries for cultivation, they were not immune to change.

    As these realms were discovered and upied, their environments often suffered damage. The thick and rich primeval qi of heaven and earth inside would be exhausted, and the microcosms would fall into destruction.

    This destruction didn¡¯t mean the microcosm was entirely ruined, but rather that it had be lifeless and uninhabitable.

    When sects first discovered a microcosm, they would establish base camps and make every effort to manage and preserve it, dying its decline.

    For example, some almighty martial artists would capture spirit veins and bury them underground inside the microcosm to constantly generate spiritual qi, thereby postponing its deterioration.

    However, this was merely a stopgap measure.

    A microcosm typically wouldn¡¯tpletely deteriorate for thousands, if not tens of thousands, of years.

    The Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm deteriorated so quickly because it was once a dragon¡¯s nest. When the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold discovered it, the environment inside was already damaged.

    After the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold entered the microcosm and began to manage it, their efforts proved futile. They could only slow the microcosm''s decline, not stop it entirely.

    Chen Fan could feel how thin the primeval qi was within the microcosm. It was vastly inferior to the outside world, showing how long it had been neglected.

    The surface of thend was dry and cracked. Large amounts of vegetation were dead. Even the spirit vein had dried up. The microcosm had deteriorated to the point where it held little promise for recovery.

    In the distance, they could vaguely see the remains of some buildings, seemingly revealing the vicissitudes of history.

    From the remains, the remnants of old buildings hinted at a once-thriving era. These ruins suggested that the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold had once been a major, prosperous sect.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Loud beastly roars came from far away.

    Those were the demonic beasts once reared by the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold. If the primeval qi had been abundant here, these demonic beasts could have grown into the Heavenly Star, or even the Manifestation, realm beasts.

    Unfortunately, the depletion of primeval qi stunted their growth.

    Even so, the intensity of their roars suggested that they were far from being weak, perhaps even more ferocious than those in the outside world.

    ¡°<i>Roar, roar</i>!¡± The angry roars grew closer, and a massive, fire-red strange bird surged through the air like a streak of fiery light, rushing toward them.

    Now that the microcosm was open and outsiders were barging in, the demonic beasts, starved of primeval qi for ages, were naturally drawn to Chen Fan and his group. They saw them as the perfect source of nourishment.

    One of these beasts, a massive fire-red bird, approached Chen Fan¡¯s group. They couldn¡¯t identify the beast. mes zed across it, and its sharp-toothed mouth gaped wide as it lunged at Chen Fan.

    Compared to Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin, the tremendous vitality of Chen Fan attracted these demonic beasts the most.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Chen Fan acted immediately, delivering a powerful p that made the strange bird¡¯s head explode. It came crashing down, shaking the ground violently and kicking off a hundred-feet-tall cloud of dust.

    This was a fourth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic beast, but its power was trivialpared to Chen Fan¡¯s.

    ¡°<i>Gagaga</i>...¡±

    It quickly became clear that more of these birds were present¡ªmany more.

    They swooped in like zing meteors, distorting the space with their fierce approach.

    These strange birds¡¯ cultivation levels varied. Some of them were not even in the Divine Nascent realm, while some were in the fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm. They were like a cloud of mes, swooping at them.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan unleashed a terrifying streak of sword qi, cutting through the air and piercing the sky. Countless strange birds fell in moments.

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s rush over.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s attack was iparably powerful, but there were just too many of those strange birds. He had killed dozens; still, many still remained and were swooping toward them without fear of death.

    As soon as Chen Fan¡¯s words fell, the remaining strange birds rushed over, drowning the trio within.

    Surrounded by those strange birds, Chen Fan remained remarkably at ease.

    None of the birds could withstand his blows; he easily killed them with punches and kicks. Chen Fan collected their demon cores, which resembled pieces of raging mes.

    Although Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin were in the second-level Divine Nascent realm, they, however, seemed a little miserable under this kind of attack.

    They frequently found themselves in life-threatening situations. Without Chen Fan¡¯s intervention, they might have lost limbs by now.

    It didn¡¯t take long for the trio to kill the whole group of strange birds.

    In the following half a month, the trio went on a crazy killing spree.

    The microcosm had already deteriorated, but the demonic beasts within had thrived. They had formed numerous tribes, imed territories, and established their dominance as kings.

    As Chen Fan and his group advanced, they couldn¡¯t avoid these beasts. They killed as they went along, feeling like advancing even a step further would be difficult.

    There were simply too many demonic beasts in here.

    However, their relentless battles provided intense training, resulting in significant growth.

    They had almost no time to rest at all. However, as geniuses, they reaped immense rewards from such high-intensity honing.

    After killing a group of demonic beasts, Qiu Yuexin¡¯s eyes flickered. She said excitedly, ¡°I feel like I¡¯m on the verge of a breakthrough!¡±

    ¡°Me too,¡± Xiao Zhen added, radiating nefarious qi.

    This was umted from the crazy killing spree over the past half month. His true primeval was stirring restlessly, seemingly showing signs of going berserk at any time.

    The two had improved tremendously during the past half month of training and had reached the point of breakthrough.

    ¡°In that case, let¡¯s advance to the next level here. The stronger we are now, the more advantageous it is for us,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin benefitted immensely, and so did Chen Fan. He was also close to reaching the next level.

    Thus, the three of them sat down here and began their attempt at a breakthrough.

    Five dayster:

    The auras of the trio suddenly boiled over intensely, stirring the air within a five-kilometer radius. Bursts of terrifying auras rushed out of them like a flood.

    Half a dayter, everything returned to a state of calm.

    The three opened their eyes, which were shining brightly.

    All three of them had sessfully advanced into the third-level Divine Nascent realm.

 Chapter 641 - Hundred-Feet-Long Dragon Marrow

    <h4>Chapter 641 - Hundred-Feet-Long Dragon Marrow</h4>

    Another half a month slowly passed by.

    Through relentless killing and absorbing the essence of demon cores, Chen Fan had fully stabilized his cultivation and grown even more powerful.

    Now, even a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm posed no challenge for him.

    Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin also honed their skills throughbat. With the addition of natural treasures they discovered, their cultivation steadily improved, advancing rapidly.

    Together, Chen Fan, Xiao Zhen, and Qiu Yuexin formed a formidable team within the microcosm. Their power was unmatched, and they swept through the outer areas effortlessly, finding no opponents who could challenge them.

    During this period, they also encountered some martial artists. Often, these encounters involved conflicts over natural treasures. Those people did not care about Chen Fan or his infamy. They would see red and charge at them.

    The trio would leave their adversaries buried beneath the microcosm''s surface, turning them into fertilizer.

    Soon, the trio made a name for themselves in the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm.

    Even though they were only a small group of three, they were a very powerful force. They swept their way toward the center.

    No one¡ªnot the martial artists they encountered nor the local demonic beasts¡ªcould halt their advance.

    Even Qiu Yuexin, once known for her beauty, now exuded an additionalyer of bloodthirsty and murderous qi, a testament to the constant battle and harsh conditions they faced.

    While marveling at her beauty, others couldn''t help but also be terrified of the murderous aura around her.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan made the head of another unidentified fifth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic beast explode.

    ¡°This doesn¡¯t make sense. This microcosm has already declined, and the spirit vein has dried up. Just how did these demonic beasts cultivate? All of them are iparably ferocious,¡± cursed Xiao Zhen.

    Their hands hadn''t stopped moving for a long time, as they kept killing everything they saw along the way. After killing for so long, they had all lost their patience.

    They didn''t enjoy killing. If a homicidal person were in their situation, they would likely be unusually excited and feel ecstasy from all the killings.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s group felt like vomiting.

    All this would have been eptable if they had been rewarded appropriately.

    While they did find natural treasures of heaven and earth along the way, it felt like getting paid pennies for building underwater bridges.

    ¡°Perhaps this is the microcosm¡¯s swan song,¡± Chen Fan said. ¡°Just like how people experience terminal lucidity, the microcosm is experiencing onest crazy hurrah. Maybe it wants to take down all the demonic beasts inside with it.¡±

    Even as theyined, they didn''t stop killing and heading deeper in.

    As they ventured deeper, the number of martial artists they encountered grew.

    Everyone was heading in the same direction for one reason: news had spread of a Dragon Marrow being discovered in a distant valley.

    This revtion sent the entire microcosm into a frenzy.

    Most people had entered the microcosm with hopes of striking it rich, but the harsh reality of the destendscape had left them with little to show for their efforts.

    The microcosm, on the brink of destruction, offered few opportunities and the idea of leaving empty-handed was unbearable.

    Once the news of the Dragon Marrow was confirmed, everyone rushed toward the valley like madmen.

    Chen Fan¡¯s group was no exception either.

    Three dayster, Chen Fan arrived at that valley.

    There, coiled within the valley, was a golden-bright, hundred-foot-long flood dragon. Its sheer presence radiated terrifying pressure, and each roar shook the heavens, deafening all who heard it.

    ¡°What the heck, a hundred-foot-long Dragon Marrow, this...¡± Xiao Zhen¡¯s eyes went wide. ¡°It¡¯s be a spirit, my god! This Dragon Marrow has already be a flood dragon. If it continues growing like that, it might transform into a true dragon. So, the rumors about this ce once being a dragon¡¯s nest were true after all.¡±

    Chen Fan was also shocked inside.

    This wasn¡¯t his first time seeing a Dragon Marrow. He had obtained a Dragon Marrow in the Hidden Dragon Ind. But that marrow had only been a foot long. Compared to this hundred-foot-long Dragon Marrow, that marrow was like an earthworm.

    ¡°Obtaining it won¡¯t be easy. It has already transformed into a flood dragon. Judging from the pressure it¡¯s emanating, it¡¯sparable to a seventh or eighth-level Divine Nascent realm human martial artist,¡± Xiao Zhen said with his eyes narrowed.

    He felt a dangerous aura from this Dragon Marrow. Xiao Zhen could feel its lethal potential, and it made his skin crawl.

    In the valley, several martial artists had already gathered. They were all looking at the Dragon Marrow greedily, with fire in their eyes, but none of them dared to act rashly.

    The aura of the flood dragon was so oppressive that even Chen Fan, standing amidst them, wore a solemn expression.

    Even though he had advanced to the third-level Divine Nascent realm, the Dragon Marrow¡¯s presence was still daunting. This massive, hundred-foot-long beast could potentially deliver a fatal blow if he wasn¡¯t careful.

    Suddenly, the air was sliced by the sound of figures rushing in.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    ¡°Get out of my way, all of you. This Dragon Marrow belongs to our Dragon God Army!¡± An iparably tyrannical voice rang out. It was none other than the Third Dragon Lord.

    The group of Dragon God Army soldiers followed closely behind him, their murderous auras nketing the valley like a suffocating fog. Their stance made it clear¡ªany opposition would be met with immediate violence.

    Before anyone could respond, a second voice, cold and sharp, rang out. The Seven Fiends Organization had arrived.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, what do you mean it belongs to your Dragon God Army? This Dragon Marrow was discovered by our organization first, so it belongs to us!¡±

    The air seemed to tremble as another voice thundered through the valley. The revered elder of the City Lord Manor entered the fray, his presencemanding as he approached with his group.

    ¡°You dare toy im to something that belongs to the City Lord Manor? Audacious fools!¡±

    ¡°Hoho, how lively it is here. This Dragon Marrow is without a master. Anyone who sees it has a stake in it.¡± A faintughter rang out, and the temperature soared dramatically. Although the crowd had yet to see the person, they already knew me King Xiao Yan had arrived.

    ¡°Insolence!¡± Another loud voice rumbled, ¡°All thends under the heavens belong to the king, and all the people in the world are the king''s subjects. This microcosm is on the Great Qin Empire¡¯snds. So, everything belongs to the empire. Who dares to touch our Great Qin Empire¡¯s belongings, are you looking to die?¡±

    As this cold, overbearing voice rang out, Seventh Young Master also arrived with his people, emanating an iparably domineering aura, looking disdainfully out of the corner of his eyes. No one dared to meet his gaze.

    The major forces had all arrived. Everyone¡¯s auras were iparably fierce and domineering. It looked like a war would break out at the slightest disagreement.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The Dragon Marrow also seemed to sense that the current situation was not good. More people were joining in and they all seemed powerful, making it feel a strong sense of impending crisis.

 Chapter 642 - Clearing the Field Tyrannically

    <h4>Chapter 642 - Clearing the Field Tyrannically</h4>

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The strong sense of threat made the Dragon Marrow roar angrily.

    More and more people arrived, and they were getting stronger. If they joined forces, the danger would increase dramatically.

    Although the Dragon Marrow couldn¡¯t speak, its furious roar and overpowering divine will sent a clear message of anger that everyone understood.

    However, the crowd ignored it.

    Now, the Dragon Marrow was trapped in the valley like a cornered animal, with no escape in sight.

    The Seventh Young Master¡¯s tyrannical words miffed the Third Dragon Lord. He said coldly, ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, what magisterial might. Today, our Dragon God Army will take the Dragon Marrow. Let¡¯s see how you¡¯ll stop me, Seventh Young Master.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph, hmph</i>. Who cares about the Great Qin Empire? Anyone who dares block me from taking the Dragon Marrow is my enemy. I¡¯ll fight them to the death¡ªkill without mercy!¡± dered Cao Yuan, the fifth fiend of the Seven Fiends Organization, radiating a fierce aura,pletely dismissing the Seventh Young Master¡¯s threat.

    The Seventh Young Master trembled in anger but knew that it was impossible to intimidate the Third Dragon Lord and the others with the Great Qin Empire¡¯s name.

    While the Great Qin Empire was immensely powerful, with many Heavenly Star realm experts, this matter was rted to the Ancient Trial Roads. Behemoths like the Great Qin Empire were strictly forbidden from interfering with the trials.

    If they interfered, they would have to face the wrath of the True Martial Academy. Let alone the Great Qin Empire, even the entire Blue Dragon Domain couldn¡¯t survive that.

    The True Martial Academy didn¡¯t care about the deadly fights between its potential students. However, if the powerful forces behind them tried to bully the weak, the True Martial Academy would not let them off lightly. And that was why the Third Dragon Lord and the others dared to challenge the Seventh Young Master.

    ¡°You people are courting death!¡± said the Seventh Young Master furiously, a berserk aura erupting from him. Surprisingly, he had already reached the sixth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Ostensibly, he had also been steadily bing stronger here.

    However, the pressure he emanated couldn¡¯t shake the Third Dragon Lord, Cao Yuan, and the others.

    The others had also grown stronger. They had made their own advancements, so the idea that the Seventh Young Master¡¯s aura could suppress them wasughable.

    Xiao Yan suddenly said, ¡°I say, let¡¯s stop fighting. This Dragon Marrow is just a step away from reaching the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm. If it breaks through, we won¡¯t just fail to get the Dragon Marrow¡ªwe¡¯ll be killed on the spot.¡±

    That was the harsh truth.

    It was because the Dragon Marrow was so close to advancing to the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm, radiating a terrifying aura, that it had been discovered. Otherwise, it would have remained hidden.

    After all, the Dragon Marrow had already developed spiritual intelligence and wasn¡¯t foolish. If it had concealed its aura and gone into hiding, could anyone search this vast area thoroughly enough to find it?

    The Seventh Young Master and the others suppressed their rage, understanding that now wasn¡¯t the time to fight.

    Otherwise, they would be ying right into the Dragon Marrow¡¯s hands, giving it the time it needed to break through.

    With so many experts joining forces, there was still hope of taking it down. Any chance of sess would vanish if the Dragon Marrow advanced to the next level.

    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s join forces and wipe out the Dragon Marrow¡¯s spiritual wisdom. After that, whether you can take the Dragon Marrow will depend on your abilities. How does that sound?¡± Xiao Yan said with a smile, toying with the nine-colored mes in his palm.

    ¡°Fine, let¡¯s join forces to get rid of the Dragon Marrow¡¯s spiritual wisdom first,¡± said Cao Yuan.

    ¡°This old man agrees,¡± said the revered elder from the City Lord Manor.

    ¡°I have no objection,¡± said the Third Dragon Lord, arms crossed.

    The Seventh Young Master nodded and said, ¡°Sure, but how do we deal with the others?¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord said with a cold smile, ¡°There¡¯s only so much Dragon Marrow, and it¡¯s barely enough for us. Sharing it with outsiders is out of the question. Why not clear out the rabble first?¡±

    The surrounding people became agitated.

    ¡°How could you do this?! The Dragon Marrow is a natural treasure of heaven and earth. Anyone who saw it should have a sha¡ª¡± said a fourth-level Divine Nascent realm in protest. But before he could finish, a dragon¡¯s w reduced him to a mist of blood.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, get lost, all of you. Otherwise, die! A treasure like the Dragon Marrow isn¡¯t something you trash can covet!¡± the Third Dragon Lord dered, his voice dripping with arrogance.

    The brutal disy sent waves of fear through the crowd. Many people''s expressions shifted instantly, terror written all over their faces.

    ¡°All of you, get lost. You want to get your hands on the Dragon Marrow? Just take a look at yourselves. Are you worthy?¡± Cao Yuan practiced demonic cultivation techniques, so he was also iparably tyrannical. Drawing his demonic saber, he shed out at once.

    A terrifying saber light tore through space. Those who could not dodge in time were instantly split in half. Not even their divine nascent could escape and was annihted.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Miserable screams rang out.

    Many people scattered like startled birds, retreating in panic. Their faces showed anger, but also helplessness.

    Despite their numbers, the difference in strength between them and individuals like Xiao Yan was vast. They simply weren¡¯t in the same league and couldn¡¯t withstand even a single blow.

    ¡°Leave, all of you.¡± Xiao Yan casually threw out a nine-colored me, which instantly swelled into a sea of mes and swept out. The crowd screamed and dodged, retreating in fear.

    Xiao Yan wasn¡¯t as ruthless as the Third Dragon Lord and Cao Yuan. After forcing these people back, he did not attack viciously. Instead, he withdrew the nine-colored mes.

    ¡°Scram!¡±

    The Seventh Young Master and the revered elder were both ruthless characters. Divine lights shot out from them, obliterating anyone too slow to escape, leaving no corpses behind as the air filled with the stench of blood.

    By now, the area was cleared.

    Cao Yuan nced around and noticed Chen Fan¡¯s group standing still, unfazed as though the chaos had nothing to do with them. ¡°Why are you three still standing here? Do you want to die?¡± he sneered.

    Even though he recognized Chen Fan and hispanions, the limited amount of Dragon Marrow meant that fewerpetitors would lead to arger share for him.

    Though Chen Fan had recently killed three powerful old devils outside the microcosm, showing overwhelming strength, Cao Yuan didn¡¯t take it seriously.

    Xiao Yan, the Third Dragon Lord, and the others saw Cao Yuan wanting to clear Chen Fan¡¯s group from the field and none of them said a word, as if they had agreed tacitly to Cao Yuan¡¯s conduct.

    Chen Fan was still not qualified to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them.

    ¡°You¡¯re talking to me?¡± Chen Fan looked up, his cold gaze was like two sharp swords, rushing into Cao Yuan¡¯s eyes and making his soul tremble.

 Chapter 643 - Battling Cao Yuan

    <h4>Chapter 643 - Battling Cao Yuan</h4>

    ¡°You¡¯re talking to me?¡± Chen Fan looked up, his cold gaze was like two sharp swords, rushing into Cao Yuan¡¯s eyes and making his soul tremble.

    For a moment, the image of a towering heavenly god shed in Cao Yuan¡¯s mind¡ªChen Fan. It was as if he stood above all,manding the gods with an unchallenged authority.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Cao Yuan''s expression became ugly and he snorted coldly.

    With a surge of spiritual will, he shattered the divine figure in his mind, ring icily at Chen Fan with his demonic eyes.

    ¡°You¡¯re still not qualified to obtain the Dragon Marrow. Get lost now, and you can still leave with your life intact. Otherwise, die!¡± Cao Yuan¡¯s voice was cold and domineering.

    A terrifying demonic aura spread from him, darkening the very air around him as if the light itself recoiled in fear.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Anguished wailings that seemed to originate from Avici Hell rang out.

    Pitch-ck demonic whirlwinds swirled behind Cao Yuan, making him seem even bigger and scarier.

    The overwhelming devilish pressure was as if a demon had descended upon the world, instilling fear in all who felt it.

    ¡°Qualifications?¡± Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, his gaze icy and unyielding. With a swish, he disappeared on the spot, appearing in front of Cao Yuan as if he had teleported and sent a punch flying at him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The punch detonated the air like a series of explosions, a shockwave of white qi rippling out and violently shaking the surrounding space.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan had dared attack first, anger shed in Cao Yuan¡¯s demonic eyes.

    Chen Fan had tantly humiliated his unmatched demonic prestige.

    Cao Yuan threw a punch almost simultaneously. His demonic power distorted the space, and for a moment, heaven and earth seemed to fall into silence.

    Before their fists made contact, the air between thempressed and exploded repeatedly. It kept bursting and crackling noisily. The fierce qi wave rushed out to the sides.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    When their fists finally collided, it sounded like a meteor crashing to earth.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    The demonic qi on Cao Yuan instantly exploded, and he flew back.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    Cao Yuan steadied himself, his expression ugly.

    He wanted to forcibly remove Chen Fan from the field; unexpectedly, he had been sent flying by Chen Fan¡¯s first attack. It was a humiliating p to his face that stung deeply.

    The demonic pressure around Cao Yuan grew more intense.

    <i>Boom, boom.</i>

    Demonic cultivation techniques were rare, and few dared to practice them. But when someone achieved mastery in these arts, they became incredibly fearsome.

    Such techniques were domineering and could very easily backfire on the practitioner. Among all cultivation techniques, it carried the highest risk of failure.

    A single mistake could easily throw the practitioner into qi deviation.

    The demonic power could turn against them, stripping away their humanity at best, transforming them into mindless killers¡ªor at worst, making them explode, leading to a gruesome death.

    Moreover, even if one seeded in learning a demonic cultivation technique, one would still have to go through horrific pains that ordinary people could not endure. If one wanted to obtain the power of the demonic path, one needed to withstand its overbearing nature.

    Thus, only those with immense determination and willpower would dare to practice demonic cultivation techniques. Even if the opportunity was right before them, hesitation would be inevitable.

    People of the demonic path were not all evil demonic beings like the blood demons. The Tianwu Continent, therefore, epted cultivators of the demonic path.

    Cao Yuan was someone with great fortune. He had once obtained the legacy of a demonic path expert. After enduring intense suffering during his cultivation, he achieved notable sess in demonic techniques, bing a heavenly genius on the Ancient Trial Road.

    Having practiced such techniques, Cao Yuan''s nature became even more devilishly domineering.

    Now that he was sent flying by Chen Fan, the rage he felt was explosive. That rage immediately burned, and his demonic intent surged to the skies.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to tear you apart!¡± Cao Yuan shouted, his voice bing hoarse. Overwhelming demonic qi surged from him and rose to the sky, dyeing the space pitch-ck, as if a demonic god had descended into the world and was about to go on a horrible killing spree.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space trembled as if thunder cracked on a clear day. Cao Yuan moved with such speed that he broke through the sound barrier, charging toward Chen Fan enveloped in immense demonic power.

    The oppressive force was suffocating.

    Even Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin, who had both reached the third-level Divine Nascent realm, struggled to breathe under Cao Yuan¡¯s pressure despite being far away. Their faces were marked by horror.

    Cao Yuan instantly arrived in front of Chen Fan, reaching out as if he would tear Chen Fan apart. It was incredibly terrifying.

    <i>Riiip!</i>

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly, approaching fearlessly. A brilliant golden light radiated from him, and his eyes gleamed with a terrifying sharpness.

    Although his opponent was a demonic cultivator, he was not afraid.

    He was eager to test Cao Yuan¡¯s true strength!

    As Chen Fan stepped forward, the space trembled violently.

    It felt as though his footsteps weighed billions of pounds. His hands, glowing with golden light, collided violently with Cao Yuan''s attack.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s physique was iparably tough, like a golden ancient god capable of splitting heaven and earth with a single hand and tearing apart gods and demons alike.

    But Cao Yuan, a demonic cultivator hardened by brutal training, was no slouch either.

    His physique was formidable, and his demonic power was overwhelmingly fierce. He fought Chen Fan with a crazed determination, his movements wild and relentless.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The sh between them was like a battle of gods, each punchnding with immense force.

    The intensity of their blows made nearby spectators¡¯ eyes twitch and their minds reel. They could hardly believe such powerful young experts existed in their world.

    Widespread air turbulence and chaos ensued.

    Deafening noises rang out nonstop. A destructive storm swept through heaven and earth as if it was going to destroy the world.

    Waving his palm, Cao Yuan sent a terrifying and overbearing demonic seal crushing over.

    With a resounding rumble, heaven and earth seemed to shatter as the seal hurtled toward Chen Fan, intent on obliterating him.

    Chen Fan stood unshaken, his golden light shining even more brilliantly.

    A torrent of terrifying force erupted from Chen Fan, shaking the void. Kicking off with his feet, Chen Fan unleashed a punch that rocked both sky and earth.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying fluctuations rippled out, shattering the void. The qi wave was like a massive tide, sweeping out.

    ¡°You damned bastard, die for me!¡±

    Cao Yuan was furious and drew his demonic saber.

    A sharp aura swept out. A pitch-ck demonic light shot out, cutting through space and splitting it in half.

    Chen Fan was like a heavenly god, sping his palm. The Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in his hand and rushed out like a huge dragon.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The immense force rippled through the space, making it crumble.

    Unperturbed, Chen Fan tore through the storm of energy and charged at Cao Yuan, delivering a devastating blow with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air exploded under the force of the attack. Cao Yuan vomited a mouthful of blood and was hurled backward over a hundred meters.

 Chapter 644 - Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art

    <h4>Chapter 644 - Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art</h4>

    ¡°Bastard, you¡¯ve angered me. You¡¯ve thoroughly angered me!¡±

    Cao Yuan, sent flying by Chen Fan again, was consumed with fury. His roar shook the sky, and a wave of killing intent swept through the heavens, making everyone¡¯s hearts race.

    Xiao Yan interjected, ¡°Stop fighting, you two. What we need to do now is join forces to deal with the Dragon Marrow.¡±

    Though he told Chen Fan and Cao Yuan to stop, he didn¡¯t budge, his face utterly disinterested, as if hoping they''d fight to the death.

    The Third Dragon Lord and the others, experienced in such matters, didn¡¯t interfere either, silently watching the two exchange blows.

    It would be even better if the two dragged each other to the grave¡ªgiving the rest a bigger share of the Dragon Marrow.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, anyone who tries to stop me is my enemy and will be killed without mercy!! I swear I¡¯ll kill this son of a bitch today to vent my anger!¡± Cao Yuan roared, gripping his demonic saber as he charged at Chen Fan.

    He tore through the sky, trampling space as his overwhelming power surged, making it impossible for others to meet his gaze. He seemed like the reincarnation of an ancient demon god.

    He was too fast.

    In the blink of an eye, he closed the distance and arrived in front of Chen Fan, leaving a long afterimage behind him.

    ck demonic qi boiled and burned around him, hisbat strength reaching its peak. His qi was so powerful it seemed capable of swallowing mountains and rivers.

    The demonic pressure shrouded thends.

    ¡°Bastard, prepare to die!¡± Cao Yuan roared icily. His demonic saber seemed ready to slice through the world as if to bring about the rebirth of primal chaos. He shed down at Chen Fan in an extremely terrifying manner.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were cold. The Purgatory Divine Halberd aroused the power of a corner of the world, gods and devils wailing in anguish, as a terrifying aura swept out.

    Like a giant dragon, the Purgatory Divine Halberd struck forward violently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The divine halberd and the demonic saber collided. It was like the sh of two different worlds¡ªone from the demonic path, the other from purgatory¡ªboth equally terrifying.

    In an instant, space was torn apart and copsed like a row of dominoes.

    The entire space exploded.

    Many people were overwhelmed with shock when they saw this scene, shaken by Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength.

    Cao Yuan, the fifth fiend of the Seven Fiends Organization, was a peerless genius at the sixth-level Divine Nascent realm. His terrifyingbat strength came as no surprise.

    But Chen Fan, only in the third-level Divine Nascent realm, had shocked everyone when he killed the three old devils outside the microcosm, disying his fearsome power for the first time. Yet many still believed he was slightly inferior to figures like Cao Yuan.

    Seeing Chen Fan and Cao Yuan battle, with Chen Fan''s overwhelming strength ripping through space, everyone was stunned. Chen Fan stood firm like a reef in a stormy sea, showing no signs of weakness.

    They could not imagine how a third-level Divine Nascent realm could possess such terrifyingbat strength and fight a peerless genius like Cao Yuan, whose name shook the heavens, on equal grounds.

    Even the gazes of figures like the Third Dragon Lord and Xiao Yan had turned serious, especially the Third Dragon Lord. Although he had briefly fought Chen Fan, ultimately withdrawing, he hadn¡¯t attached any importance to Chen Fan until now.

    He had been confident that he could kill Chen Fan if he fought seriously.

    But as the battle between Chen Fan and Cao Yuan raged on, for the first time, the Third Dragon Lord felt a sense of unease.

    He knew Cao Yuan''s strength all too well. They had shed before, and despite his best efforts, he had been forced to retreat.

    In truth, they were almost evenly matched.

    Although he possessed a true dragon¡¯s bloodline, Cao Yuan wasn¡¯t ordinary either, cultivating an iparably domineering demonic cultivation technique.

    Still, Cao Yuan couldn¡¯t take down Chen Fan. This underlined Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength.

    If he had gone all out against Chen Fan earlier, could the Third Dragon Lord have been confident of victory?

    Not necessarily!

    ¡°Damn it, someone like him can¡¯t be allowed to live!¡± An icy light shed across the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes.

    "Bastard, no matter where you run, whether heaven or earth, death awaits you today!"

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An immense demonic cloud seemed to form between heaven and earth.

    The skies darkened, and the distant crowd, forced to retreat, watched in horror.

    The terrifying demonic cloud converged on the demonic saber. The extremely ferocious and domineering demonic power permeated the space.

    Also, it was as though a demonic king¡¯s armor had enveloped Cao Yuan, glowing with an ominous, terrifying luster.

    ¡°Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art, against the world, kill!¡± Cao Yuan roared, shing out violently with his demonic saber.

    The terrifying might caused the void to tremble, and the demonic intent annihted the heavens.

    A horrifying demonic storm swept toward Chen Fan. If this attacknded, even with his sessfully cultivated Hegemonic Golden Body, he wouldn¡¯t escape unscathed.

    ¡°Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art, it¡¯s actually the Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art. Cao Yuan actually obtained Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven¡¯s legacy!¡± eximed someone in shock.

    ¡°Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven? Who is that?¡±

    Many people were puzzled.

    ¡°Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven was a behemoth of the demonic path on the Tianwu Continent a thousand years ago. He had mastered the Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art¡ªan iparably powerful technique that could throw the world into chaos. He was one of the top experts of his time.

    ¡°However, after killing the descendant of another powerhouse, he was hunted down. It''s said they both inflicted serious injuries on each other, and from that moment on, the Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art disappeared, never to be seen again.

    ¡°People searched for Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven¡¯s resting ce, hoping to im his legacy and master this supreme demonic art, bing demonic path giants like him. But even after a thousand years, no one found it. But it seems Cao Yuan has managed to obtain it.¡± The exnation carried a clear tone of envy.

    Who wouldn¡¯t want the legacy of such a demonic giant?

    Countless had searched for over a thousand years and couldn¡¯t find it. But in the end, Cao Yuan was the one to im it, leaving many filled with envy and jealousy.

    The terrifying force swept down, causing the primeval qi of heaven and earth to go into disarray.

    Unleashing the Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art, Cao Yuan¡¯s aura resembled that of Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven, as if he had been reincarnated. It was iparably terrifying.

    ¡°He actually obtained Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven¡¯s legacy. What good fortune!¡± A trace of jealousy shed across the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes as well.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    The demonic saber set off a boundless demonic pressure and cut through the void. The murderous qi on the de spread out across the sky, covering heaven and earth, and rushed toward Chen Fan.

    In an instant, a terrifying demonic will rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s mind. It was as if a terrifying demon venerable had entered his mind, wanting to tear his soul apart, causing a sharp pain in his brain.

 Chapter 645 - Dragon Marrow Rampages

    <h4>Chapter 645 - Dragon Marrow Rampages</h4>

    This was an earth-shaking battle.

    Many martial artists were left stunned. Even at the same cultivation level, there were those whose power seemed unreachable.

    ¡°Bastard, meet your death!¡± Cao Yuan roared through gritted teeth, his fury boiling over.

    He shed at Chen Fan again, the demonic saber glowing with an ominous darkness as he unleashed his full strength.

    He had already unleashed his supreme demonic art, Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art, and sent heaven and earth into disarray. It made it impossible for Chen Fan to mobilize the primeval qi of heaven and earth to counterattack.

    This was the terrifying power of the Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art¡ªit disrupted the natural forces, leaving only the wielder unaffected.

    Chen Fan felt a powerful demonic will rushing into his mind, transforming into a supreme demon god that sought to tear his soul apart. A sharp pain shot through his head.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s willpower was incredibly strong. A mere demonic will wasn¡¯t enough to break him.

    All his muscles twitched, rippling with power. A terrifying aura erupted from him as if an ancient beast had awakened.

    He thrust his halberd up violently as if piercing through the heavens. The oppressive air around him instantly recoiled.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Heaven and earth shook.

    The exchange of blows between the two made the void copse. Killing intent swept into the sky, andrge areas of space copsed under the ripples.

    "If this is all you¡¯ve got, not even immortals descending from the heavens can save you!"

    Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan was like a deity standing in between heaven and earth, seemingly holding them up. An inexplicable aura rolled fiercely.

    ¡°What arrogance, die for me!¡± Cao Yuan¡¯s demonic eyes became even colder. Being looked down on by Chen Fan was an unbearable humiliation, one he had to wash away with Chen Fan¡¯s blood.

    As the sessor of Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven, wielding the supreme Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art, he was destined to be the next ruler of the demonic path. The thought of failing to kill Chen Fan was inconceivable!

    A terrifying demonic storm swept down like an ink-ck waterfall, falling from the nine heavens. It washed down, annihting everything under this terrifying force.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd in Chen Fan¡¯s hand erupted with an even more resplendent light. A terrifying force swept out as he went all out. His strike was fierce and overwhelming.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    The saber and halberd shed. Terrifying ripples instantly spread out.

    These weren¡¯t ordinary ripples; they were deadly. Even a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert would be instantly obliterated if caught in their path.

    Everywhere the deadly ripples swept through, the vacuum was shattered.

    The shockwaves shattered the vacuum, sweeping through heaven and earth inyers, reaching from the highest skies to the deepest hells.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Cao Yuan felt an immense force explode through the demonic saber, sting him back. The demonic qi surrounding him shattered.

    <i>Boom, tch.</i>

    The overwhelming force tore at his hands, ripping the webbing between his fingers. Fresh blood spattered as he was pushed back, taking iparably heavy steps in the air.

    The nearby crowd erupted into stunned discussions, their faces filled with disbelief. They couldn¡¯tprehend how the once-feared Cao Yuan had fallen into a disadvantage so quickly.

    ¡°How is this possible?¡± Cao Yuan looked at Chen Fan in disbelief. He couldn¡¯tprehend how he didn¡¯t gain the upper hand despite using the Chaotic Heaven Demonic Art. And how did Chen Fan even injure him?

    ¡°Oh my god, is that for real? That attack earlier, I didn¡¯t see it wrong, did I? Cao Yuan actually came out on the losing end?¡±

    ¡°This is unreal. Even after obtaining Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven''s legacy, he couldn¡¯t overpower Chen Fan. Chen Fan is terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Cao Yuan tried to crush Chen Fan with pure dominance, but now he¡¯s the one struggling. This reversal... it feels so satisfying!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°How dare you hurt me, die!¡± Cao Yuan let out a furious roar that shook the heavens, striking out with his demonic saber once more.

    He was a peerless genius of the heavens who dominated the Kan Road. Even though he came to the Gen Road, he was still an absolute top-tier expert. How could he lose to a nobody like Chen Fan?

    The wound in his hands meant nothing. In a sh, he surged forward, closing in on Chen Fan, his overwhelming demonic aura freezing the very air.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, it¡¯s time to end this!¡± Chen Fan said with a cold look in his eyes.

    With an upward swing, the Purgatory Divine Halberd in his hand carved out a deadly silhouette, shing violently like a shooting meteor.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    Suddenly, the Dragon Marrow in the valley went berserk. Its massive form surged through the air, attempting to break free and escape.

    With Chen Fan and Cao Yuan fighting to the death, this was its chance to escape.

    A terrifying force erupted from it, shaking the space.

    That was the power of the peak seventh-level Divine Nascent realm. It could simply sweep through everyone who had entered the microcosm.

    The Dragon Marrow¡¯s sudden rampage startled the Third Dragon Lord, Xiao Yan, and the others. They no longer cared about the fight between Chen Fan and Cao Yuan. Channeling their cultivation, they unleashed several killing moves to suppress the Dragon Marrow.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    However, the Dragon Marrow was no weakling. Its powerful tail swept out, causing a series of explosions in the air. A whole area copsed, neutralizing the Third Dragon Lord and the others¡¯ moves.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, how dare you act arrogantly, you beast!¡± said the Third Dragon Lord coldly. His formidable aura red as he lunged forward with the Flood Dragon Halberd, piercing throughyers of space with incredible force.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The attack struck the Dragon Marrow, shattering arge piece of its scale.

    Feeling an intense pain, the Dragon Marrow let out an angry roar. Its terrifying aura boiled over, as it rushed toward the Third Dragon Lord like a lightning bolt.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    A chain of spatial explosions rang out. The Third Dragon Lord instantly felt a terrifyingly ferocious aurae washing over him, suffocating him.

    ¡°Sinful beast, get back in there!¡± roared the Third Dragon Lord, summoning the silhouette of a true dragon around him. The Flood Dragon Halberd emitted a dragon¡¯s cry as it flew toward the Dragon Marrow.

    The Dragon God Army members around him alsounched terrifying attacks in unison, sting toward the Dragon Marrow.

    However, the Dragon Marrow was too terrifyingly powerful, breaking apart the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s attack in a sh.

    It whipped out its dragon tail, causing an explosion in space. The weaker Dragon God Army members instantly turned into mists of blood, unable to even let out a scream.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡± The Third Dragon Lord was furious, attacking with his Flood Dragon Halberd as if it were a real flood dragon. It struck the Dragon Marrow¡¯s be, shattering its scale and setting off an energy storm.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    However, the Third Dragon Lord spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood from the terrifying recoil and was pushed back several dozens of meters.

    Despite this, he managed to stop the Dragon Marrow¡¯s forward momentum. Meanwhile, the Seventh Young Master, Xiao Yan, and the others were already here.

 Chapter 646 - Killing Cao Yuan

    <h4>Chapter 646 - Killing Cao Yuan</h4>

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Xiao Yan, the Seventh Young Master, and the others rushed over. Each of their auras was earth-shaking and very terrifying.

    As heavenly geniuses, they were already unmatched within their cultivation level, and even against stronger opponents, they could hold their ground with ease.

    Now, they unleashed theirbined might, suppressing the Dragon Marrow¡¯s rampant aura instantly.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The Dragon Marrow let out a roar that shook the sky. Its terrifying aura was rippling and boiling.

    Streams of terrifying forces sted out in all directions. Even Xiao Yan and the others had to be careful when facing the Dragon Marrow¡¯s berserk attacks.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Several experts from the City Lord Manor and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, unable to evade the onught in time, were struck by the Dragon Marrow''s terrifying power. They were instantly torn apart and screamed out loud as they died on the spot.

    ¡°Sinful beast, how dare you still try to show off!¡± The Seventh Young Master sneered coldly, waving his Mountain and River Fan.

    A huge mountain range immediately materialized and came smashing down, sting fiercely onto the Dragon Marrow.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The crushing force obliterated part of its scales, drawing out enraged howls from the Dragon Marrow.

    Despite the damage, the metamorphosed creature was terrifyingly resilient. Where others would have crumbled, the Dragon Marrow showed no sign of weakening, its frenzied attacks growing more vicious.

    The City Lord Manor¡¯s revered elder also struck powerfully. A terrifying hand seal crashed down with unparalleled might like an ancient divine mountain.

    Although the revered elder was getting on in years, the depth of his cultivation remained as vast and terrifying as the sea. His every move carried an extraordinary strength, rivaling even the super geniuses like the Seventh Young Master and Xiao Yan, whose names reverberated throughout the Ancient Trial Road.

    Xiao Yan flicked his finger, sending a nine-colored me flying out. It exploded with a loud bang and transformed into a sea of mes, surrounding the Dragon Marrow. The scorching mes threatened to roast the powerful beast alive.

    In a split second, the battlefield split into two intense fronts.

    On one side was the fierce battle between Chen Fan and Cao Yuan, and on the other side was the masses besieging the Dragon Marrow. Both sides were very terrifying and grand. The entire vacuum seemed to be copsing in this terrifying collision.

    The valley had long since descended into chaos.

    Mountains crumbled, rocks shattered, and wide, pitch-ck fissures snaked across the ground like the gaping maw of a primordial beast, sending chills through those watching.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    Despite the relentless assault from Xiao Yan and the others, the Dragon Marrow¡¯s furious roar shattered the surrounding vacuum, causing mountains to tremble and the earth to shake violently.

    Its raw, overwhelming power sent the Seventh Young Master, the Third Dragon Lord, and the rest flying backward as if they were mere leaves caught in a storm. Blood spewed from their mouths as they struggled to remain standing.

    As for the Dragon God Army, Heaven Supervisory Bureau, and the City Lord Manor¡¯s ordinary experts, they died tragically under the Dragon Marrow¡¯s berserk counterattack,pletely powerless to resist.

    They were all ordinary fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm experts. They were simply iparable to super geniuses like the Third Dragon Lord.

    Even if they were at the same cultivation level, the Third Dragon Lord could ughter those martial artists as easily as ughtering chickens and dogs.

    While the Third Dragon Lord and the others were fiercely engaged in their siege of the Dragon Marrow, on the other side, Cao Yuan was consumed by fury, his anger manifesting in a series of savage roars.

    ¡°Together, strike together and ughter this beast!¡± Cao Yuan roared angrily.

    He knew it would be impossible for him to kill Chen Fan alone. Prolonging the fight would only disadvantage him, and he was determined not to leave empty-handed.

    When members of the Seven Fiends Organization heard Cao Yuan, nefarious qi immediately swept out from them and they charged toward Chen Fan, shaking heaven and earth.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, a bunch of useless losers!¡± Chen Fan sneered, utterly unfazed. He unleashed a terrifying strike with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, sending a powerful force crashing into Cao Yuan.

    The blow ripped apart the demonic qi surrounding him, and Cao Yuan¡¯s flesh and blood sttered as his towering figure was sent flying. He crashed into a cliff, shattering the rock wall before finallying to a halt.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan was like a killing god. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he rushed toward the Seven Fiends Organization members. Deadly halberd light shed in space.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    In an instant, several corpses fell from the sky.

    Though these members of the Seven Fiends Organization were considered powerful geniuses on the Ancient Trial Roads, they were no match for Chen Fan. Facing him was a death sentence.

    Even a super genius like Cao Yuan couldn¡¯t withstand Chen Fan¡¯s attack, so what chance did they have?

    He painted the sky crimson with fresh blood in just one move. The lives of a handful of Seven Fiends Organization members were snuffed out instantly.

    ¡°Ahhh, bastard, you son of a bitch, die for me!¡± Cao Yuan roared furiously, rushing over with a disheveled appearance. His demonic pressure surged as he charged toward Chen Fan like a madman.

    He swung his demonic saber wildly, unleashing waves of terrifying saber light that ravaged the heavens and the earth, sending chills down the spines of those witnessing the sh.

    However, Chen Fan navigated his way through the saber light skillfully and easily, neutralizing Cao Yuan¡¯s attacks and killing more Seven Fiends Organization members simultaneously.

    A Heaven Piercing Spear tore through the air, its rotational power unstoppable, and skewered a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm member. It sent him plummeting from the sky and violently nailed him to the ground. The force of the strike shattered his divine nascent, leaving nothing behind.

    A deadly halberd light shone in heaven and earth. In an instant, it split a fourth-level Divine Nascent realm Seven Fiends Organization member in half along with his divine nascent, killing him on the spot.

    Cao Yuan¡¯s gaze was like a de, sending shivers down people¡¯s spine.

    His frantic strikes continued as if his demonic saber had been possessed by a devil itself, shing at Chen Fan with enough force to rend the heavens.

    Chen Fan raised his halberd and blocked it.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The air instantly copsed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan remained still like an immovable mountain and punched with his left hand. The terrifying force was like a cannonball, blowing apart an approaching Seven Fiends Organization member and killing him on the spot.

    Chen Fan had dealt with all the ordinary Seven Fiends Organization members before long, leaving no one behind.

    ¡°It¡¯s your turn now!¡±

    Overwhelming killing intent surged from Chen Fan. With his Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, Chen Fan fiercely made his way toward Cao Yuan.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The space shattered as if Chen Fan had rent it with his halberd. The entire world seemed to have darkened in an instant.

    Destroying the universe in one attack!

    A terrifying force swept down.

    Chen Fan brought out the Hegemonic Golden Body¡¯s terrifying strengthpletely. It swept out in all directions, making the space copse.

    ¡°Die!¡± Cao Yuan roared, the demonic qi around him surging violently. Behind him, the silhouette of a demon god seemed to manifest, casting an overwhelming demonic pressure that swept across the battlefield, desperately trying to fend off Chen Fan''s oing attack.

    ¡°Today, I''ll show you what true power looks like!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, shing down with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    The halberd light red brilliantly like the stars illuminating the night. In that instant, all that could be seen across the horizon was that deadly halberd light, cutting through the darkness.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying noises swept out like the tide. Chen Fan and Cao Yuan collided violently, and in an instant, all the demonic qi around Cao Yuan dissipated, unable to gather.

    His overwhelming demonic pressure was instantly annihted, and the sounds of bones breaking rang out from inside him.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The two figures crossed paths. Suddenly, fresh blood spurted from Cao Yuan, and his tall figure was split diagonally, sliding off into two halves.

    His face, still frozen in disbelief, reflected the horror of his fate, unable toprehend that he had been so thoroughly defeated¡ªin by Chen Fan.

 Chapter 647 - Fighting for Dragon Marrow

    <h4>Chapter 647 - Fighting for Dragon Marrow</h4>

    The people nearby exchanged speechless nces as they watched Chen Fan kill Cao Yuan. Shock was written all over their faces.

    Cao Yuan was the fifth fiend of the Kan Road¡¯s Seven Fiends Organization, a heavenly genius whose name shook the Ancient Trial Road. He had arrived at Gen Road with great ambition, intending to seize the opportunities in the microcosm. Yet, against all expectations, Chen Fan had cut his path short, killing him here.

    Everyone¡¯s hearts were shaken.

    Even the Third Dragon Lord, Xiao Yan, and the others, fighting the Dragon Marrow frantically, were also shaken inside. Chen Fan had not only defeated Cao Yuan but also killed him.

    Cao Yuan had been a top-tier genius, their equal in every way. He had inherited the legacy of the Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven and cultivated a fearsome demonic technique that should have ensured his future glory, possibly making him the next Chaotic Heaven Demon Venerable, a figure destined to dominate the world.

    But after crossing paths with Chen Fan, his tragic end left many sighing with regret.

    The crowd murmured among themselves. Some gazed at Chen Fan with awe, while others with fear.

    ¡°He¡¯s dead. Cao Yuan has fallen here.¡±

    ¡°What a pity. He underestimated Chen Fan, thinking he was easy prey, and paid the ultimate price. This just shows how arrogance can make you cross someone you can¡¯t afford to offend.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is too terrifying. He¡¯s already this terrifying as a third-level Divine Nascent realm. If he had been at Cao Yuan¡¯s level, would he have smashed him into meat paste with a p?¡±

    ¡°Who says otherwise? Cao Yuan and the others are all top geniuses, but Chen Fan is a monster-ss genius who can skip three small levels. How scary.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure someone like him would rise to prominence very quickly once he enters the True Martial Academy and be famous all over the world.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood and swayed unsteadily, causing people to gasp in shock.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Though he had killed Cao Yuan, thetter had not gone down easily. His final desperate strike had nearly gutted Chen Fan.

    Even though his Hegemonic Golden Body had reached level three and was iparably tough, the saber had still managed to carve a bloody gash in him, exposing his pulsing organs.

    A powerful stream of demonic force rushed into Chen Fan, threatening to wreak havoc inside him. Chen Fan quickly channeled the Heaven Seizing Furnace, suppressing and refining away this force.

    With a squeeze of his hand, he blew up the two halves of Cao Yuan¡¯s corpse into a mist of blood, while pocketing the demonic saber and storage ring.

    Without hesitation, Chen Fan turned and dashed toward the Dragon Marrow.

    The Dragon Marrow was letting out a series of enraged roars. Under the Third Dragon Lord and the others¡¯ relentless and berserk attacks, it had beenpletely suppressed, its scales shattered.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    The Dragon Marrow¡¯s situation was dire, and with Chen Fan¡ªanother overwhelming force¡ªjoining the fight, its fate was sealed.

    Though it roared in fury and lunged wildly, shattering the vacuum and shaking the earth, the repeated blows tore apart its flesh. Its counterattacks grew weaker by the second.

    Surrounded by top experts, the Dragon Marrow couldn¡¯t break free, no matter how desperately it tried.

    However, every time it tried to break through, it took the lives of martial artists, be it the Dragon God Army members, the City Lord Manor members, or the Heaven Supervisory Bureau members.

    The number of martial artists from these three major forces dwindled rapidly, but there was no stopping it. The Dragon Marrow was fighting desperately for survival.

    ¡°The Dragon Marrow can¡¯t hold out much longer, damn it!¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait. Once they finish dividing it among themselves and break their alliance, we¡¯ll strike together.¡±

    ¡°Exactly. Why should the Dragon Marrow belong only to them? We deserve a share too!¡±

    The onlookers watched as the Dragon Marrow neared its limit, knowing it was only a matter of time before Chen Fan and the others wiped out its spiritual wisdom, turning it into nothing more than food for the victors.

    However, they all felt very indignant inside, their eyes gleaming with resolve. They weren¡¯t ready to give up so easily.

    Although this Dragon Marrow was very powerful, how could it be a match for thebined might of Chen Fan and the other top experts?

    These people were top geniuses of the younger generation, each with rare opportunities and legacies backing them.

    With them attacking together, the Dragon Marrow was bound to be exhausted soon.

    The Dragon Marrow panted heavily like a cow, and almost all of its scales were broken. Streams of pure energy leaked out from its wounds.

    Chen Fan unleashed a Great Brahma Sacred Palm. It came crashing down like a golden mountain, carrying terrifying force behind it, thoroughly wiping out the Dragon Marrow¡¯s spiritual wisdom.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Almost instantly, Chen Fan grasped the hundred-foot-long Dragon Marrow.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord and the others roared out furiously one after another, their eyes wide with anger.

    Chen Fan had boldly tried to take the entire Dragon Marrow, tantly disregarding them. Several killing intents erupted, and they lunged toward the Dragon Marrow one after another.

    ¡°This Dragon Marrow is mine!¡± The City Lord Manor¡¯s revered elder smiled coldly. An overwhelming aura surrounded him, revealing that he was actually at the peak of the sixth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Arge hand instantly reached out, reaching for the Dragon Marrow.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    ¡°How dare you fight over the Dragon Marrow with me, you¡¯re courting death! You deserve to die a thousand times!¡± The Third Dragon Lord, consumed with rage, swung the Flood Dragon Halberd. A dazzling halberd light, as brilliant as the Milky Way, surged toward the target like a raging dragon.

    ¡°No one is allowed to seize the Dragon Marrow, it¡¯s time!¡± The Seventh Young Master was also unwilling to back down. A mountain range swung out, suppressing heaven and earth, sting toward Chen Fan¡¯s side with shocking momentum.

    Xiao Yan said nothing, but the terrifying aura he emitted spoke volumes. A ming hand shot out, distorting space itself, and filling the air with the acrid smell of burning.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    All these terrifying attacks collided and exploded violently. It was like the destruction of the universe.

    The center of the impact was reduced to primal chaos, and the Dragon Marrow shattered into several pieces under the force of the collision.

    Without wasting a second, Chen Fan moved in a blur, snatching the longest section of the Dragon Marrow, ready to store it away.

    ¡°Audacious!¡± shouted the revered elder angrily, sending arge hand that covered the sky over.

    ¡°Old coot, you¡¯re seeking death!¡± Chen Fan was enraged and stabbed out violently with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    A terrifying force sted out, shattering the revered elder¡¯s massive hand and continuing toward him. His face changed in rm as he quickly retreated.

    ¡°Overestimating yourself!¡± Chen Fan spat out those words coldly. He blurred into motion, ignoring the revered elder and instead reaching for the scattered Dragon Marrow.

    ¡°Damn it, Chen Fan, you¡¯ve already obtained a piece of the Dragon Marrow. Are you still trying to get your hands on the others?¡± said the Seventh Young Master, displeased.

    ¡°What a joke. Do you think we¡¯re being handed out candy here? A little for everyone? The natural treasures of heaven and earth belong to whoever is capable. If you don¡¯t have the strength, then scram aside!¡± Chen Fan said with a cold smile, ignoring the Seventh Young Master¡¯sints.

    The Seventh Young Master¡¯s expression became ugly. He vowed to himself that he would make Chen Fan pay for this.

    As soon as they left, he would mobilize the entire Heaven Supervisory Bureau of the Great Qin Empire and ensure Chen Fan faced a fate worse than death.

 Chapter 648 - Fourth-Level Divine Nascent

    <h4>Chapter 648 - Fourth-Level Divine Nascent</h4>

    Chen Fan was well aware of what the Seventh Young Master was plotting, and the change in his expression only made it more obvious. He had to be thinking about how to exact revenge. However, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t the least bit intimidated.

    As long as he continued to grow stronger, what was there to fear?

    Moreover, the Seventh Young Master could try all he wanted to mobilize the Heavenly Star realm experts from the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, but they wouldn¡¯t dare because of the True Martial Academy.

    If they did, let alone the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, the academy might overthrow the entire Blue Dragon Domain.

    As long as the threat didn¡¯te from a Heavenly Star realm expert, Chen Fan had no reason to be afraid with his growing strength.

    The others quickly reached for the broken Dragon Marrow, each targeting the piece they desired.

    Chen Fan reached out for another piece, but there weren¡¯t many left. He quickly tried to take one of the few remaining pieces.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Two huge hands collided.

    Two massive hands shed as the Third Dragon Lord and Chen Fan both reached for the same piece. Neither seeded. In the blink of an eye, several other hands shot out to grab it.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. He swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, smashing the iing hands. With a swift motion, Chen Fan snatched the Dragon Marrow section and stored it away.

    The Third Dragon Lord and the others¡¯ expressions were all very ugly. However, none of them pressed the issue further. After all, Chen Fan had demonstrated his overwhelming strength earlier by killing Cao Yuan.

    As for the followers, since even the top geniuses might not necessarily be a match for Chen Fan, they didn¡¯t even think about fighting him.

    The Dragon Marrow had beenpletely divided up before long.

    ¡°Haha, with the Dragon Marrow in hand, I¡¯ll be taking my leave first. Goodbye!¡± Xiao Yanughed out loud. Nine-colored mes rose up around him, burning through the space as he left.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± said the revered elder of the City Lord Manor, ring at Chen Fan before leaving with his remaining subordinates.

    Soon, only Chen Fan¡¯s group was left in the valley. Everyone else was gone.

    ¡°Let¡¯s move,¡± Chen Fan said to Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen.

    In the scramble for the Dragon Marrow, the two had beenpletely uninvolved.

    Their cultivation levels paled inparison to Chen Fan and the other top experts. From start to finish, they had merely stood aside and observed without participating.

    Suddenly, the people nearby surrounded them.

    ¡°Stop right there!¡±

    These people had nned to join hands and intimidate one of the super geniuses after they were done dividing the loot. They considered Chen Fan and Xiao Yan as the easiest targets to bully

    After all, these two were likemanders without any soldiers, unlike the Dragon God Army, Heaven Supervisory Bureau, and the City Lord Manor, which all had quite a number of experts with them.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Chen Fan swept his gaze around coldly, making the hearts of those blocking him shiver.

    A fourth-level Divine Nascent realm martial artist stepped forward and said, ¡°Chen Fan, we all know you¡¯re strong, but there are so many of us here. We¡¯ll let you guys leave as long as you hand over a piece of the Dragon Marrow.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°So, you¡¯re trying to snatch my Dragon Marrow. Very well, but do you think empty vessels like you are worthy?¡±

    A green lotus appeared in front of Chen Fan, blossoming with an iparably sharp aura. The lotus quickly transformed into a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi, which rushed out violently.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± Miserable screams rang out in an instant.

    The Green Lotus Sword Qi diced the thieves. Fresh blood spilled across the sky, and the air became thick with the scent of blood.

    Many people were put to death by this attack in an instant.

    The remaining onlookers were terrified, scrambling away in panic, their faces pale with horror.

    The sheer brutality of Chen Fan¡¯s single sh, which had diced nearly twenty people, left them in utter shock.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>.¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly and left with Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin. No one dared to stop them.

    ......

    Deep within a mountain cavity in the microcosm, the trio came to a halt.

    Chen Fan took out a Dragon Marrow piece and tossed it to them.

    ¡°You two, absorb this together.¡±

    ¡°This...¡± Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin looked at Chen Fan, feeling at a loss for words.

    They did not contribute anything in the fight for the Dragon Marrow; it had been Chen Fan fighting alone.

    Now that Chen Fan was offering them a piece, they felt embarrassed to ept it.

    ¡°Quit being so difficult. Quickly absorb it and raise your cultivation.¡±

    Without waiting for a response, he pulled out the biggest piece of the Dragon Marrow and began refining and absorbing it.

    This biggest piece of the Dragon Marrow was equivalent to two or three of the smaller pieces. It could be said that Chen Fan had gained the most from the Dragon Marrow fight.

    Seeing that Chen Fan was already deep in cultivation, Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin no longer hesitated. Dividing the Dragon Marrow into two halves, they began absorbing its energy to enhance their own cultivation.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Inside Chen Fan, the Heaven Seizing Furnace spun rapidly, refining a vast amount of the Dragon Marrow. It transformed into energy and rushed into Chen Fan, making his aura boil over and go berserk. Countless whirlwinds whistled and spun around him.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Dragon Marrow piece was twenty feet long, being one-fifth of the entire Dragon Marrow. The sheer amount of energy it contained was immense.

    His cultivation began climbing almost instantly.

    It had been less than a month since he broke through to the third-level Divine Nascent realm, making his progress astounding.

    Time passed quickly as the trio continued absorbing the Dragon Marrow¡¯s energy.

    Ten dayster:

    Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin sessfully advanced to the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    However, Chen Fan had yet to break through. Nevertheless, his aura was already very powerful, creating pressure so intense that it almost suffocated the two who had just advanced.

    The two looked at Chen Fan, who was at the cusp of breaking through, and they did not bother him.

    Another five days passed.

    On this day, the entire heaven and earth was in turmoil. The air currents surged very intensely, as if some kind of disaster was about to happen. The cause of thismotion was Chen Fan himself.

    ¡°He¡¯s about to break through!¡±

    Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin narrowed their gazes, knowing that Chen Fan was about to break through.

    As they had expected, in the next moment, loud rumblings came from within Chen Fan.

    That was the power of his true primeval surging crazily like a river inside him. His aura reached the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    After half a month, Chen Fan finally broke through to the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    The terrifyingmotion caused by Chen Fan only calmed down after half a day.

    The terrifying pressure he emanated receded like the tide. After it was all gone, Chen Fan opened his eyes, and a sharp light shed across them.

 Chapter 649 - Flood Dragon Grotto

    <h4>Chapter 649 - Flood Dragon Grotto</h4>

    Half a monthter, deep within the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold microcosm.

    The entire microcosm had be barren due to the withering of the spirit vein. Sandstorms were everywhere, and could often be seen sweeping through.

    Some of these storms were so powerful that they could easily sweep away even Divine Nascent realm experts, tearing them apart midair.

    The deeper one explored, the more terrifying and frequent these storms became. For human martial artists, navigating through them was incredibly difficult, but demonic beasts thrived in this harsh environment. After over a thousand years of adaptation, they had made the storms their home.

    Many of the storms persisted year-round, bing nests for these creatures.

    In the giant storms, entire kingdoms of demonic beasts had formed, with countless creatures living, hunting, and reproducing inside the swirling chaos.

    Chen Fan¡¯s group discovered that the deeper they explored, the more of these kinds of storms they would find. Within the depths of these storms, powerful vitality fluctuations ebbed and flowed, hinting at the presence of strong demonic beasts.

    One day, they came face-to-face with an enormous sandstorm.

    This particr storm towered over ten thousand meters high and spanned several thousand meters wide, resembling an unstoppable fortress of destruction.

    The storm swept toward Chen Fan¡¯s group. His sharp gaze immediately detected numerous demonic beasts lurking within the storm.

    If they were swept into the storm, even though they were Divine Nascent realm experts, they would be immediately torn to shreds by these demonic beasts.

    Though massive, the storm moved rmingly fast, giving them little time to react.

    In just moments, the sandstorm arrived, and the first wave of demonic beasts¡ªknown as Sand Beasts¡ªcharged straight at Chen Fan.

    Each of these creatures was encased in a thickyer of sand and gravel. Though merely in the Core Formation realm, they attacked in unison, sending massive columns of sand hurtling toward Chen Fan¡¯s group. These sand columns, sharp as spears, pierced through the air, surging forward like an unstoppable tidal wave.

    Chen Fan unleashed a palm strike. The Northern Star Reaper Hand covered the sky, bing infinitely huge like an enormous shield. It stopped the sand columns. With a violent m, a terrifying force erupted from it, killing those Sand Beasts.

    The coordinated attack from these beasts could have overwhelmed most Divine Nascent realm experts, injuring them severely or even leading to their deaths. But Chen Fan was far from ordinary.

    Chen Fan had already broken through to the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm, and his cultivation was solid. Hisbat prowess was monstrous¡ªon par with experts at the sixth or even seventh level of the Divine Nascent realm.

    Despite their numbers, the Sand Beasts were simply insignificant when facing a terrifying expert like Chen Fan. Without any suspense, they were all smacked to their deaths on the spot.

    However, the sandstorm was teeming with demonic beasts. The sheer density of them made it seem as if an entire kingdom of beasts was surging out from the storm.

    With that, the whistling sandstorm showed signs of copsing.

    Chen Fan rushed in for the kill, ughtering the demonic beasts without restraint.

    Although Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin were not as ferocious as Chen Fan, their strength had also skyrocketed recently. So, these demonic beasts were easy targets for them too.

    Chen Fan kept killing these demonic beasts, not stopping for a moment.

    These demonic beasts were no match for Chen Fan. Fresh blood spilled to the ground, and the odor of blood permeated the entire space.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    Likely enraged by Chen Fan¡¯s killing spree, the beast king of this demonic beast kingdom roared furiously, shaking the sky. It charged out of the sandstorm at once, revealing its enormous size and its fierce appearance. An overwhelming might erupted from it, shrouding the area.

    ¡°Human, how dare you kill my people. I¡¯ll tear you apart!¡± roared the beast king.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, nothing but a sinful beast, yet you dare to show off!¡±

    Chen Fan faced the beast king¡¯s overwhelming pressure nonchntly. After cutting down a demonic beast with his halberd, he rushed toward the beast king.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A Green Lotus Sword Qi instantly erupted, splitting open heaven and earth. The sound of cloth tearing rang out in space.

    This beast king looked horrified, feeling as if death itself had called it out. It wanted nothing more than to rush back into the sandstorm.

    It had realized that it had offended an unfathomable existence.

    s, no matter how fast it ran, it couldn¡¯t outrun the sword qi with its name on it.

    With a poof, the sword qi cleaved the peak sixth-level Divine Nascent realm beast king, killing it on the spot.

    The moment this beast king was killed, a Flood Dragon Token dropped. Chen Fan grabbed at the air and caught it. He sensed a powerful flood dragon aura from it, but he didn¡¯t know what use it had. So, he could only put it away.

    The remaining demonic beasts immediately scattered and fled in all directions, crumbling as an army.

    Chen Fan and hispanions continued moving forward.

    Suddenly, a deafening sound rang out in heaven and earth. The space in the entire microcosm shook intensely.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°What is happening?¡±

    Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin¡¯s expressions darkened.

    Chen Fan also looked puzzled. However, he could sense the source of this change.

    ¡°Not sure. Let¡¯s go, the source of the tremor is in that direction. Let¡¯s go take a look.¡±

    The trio flew out at once, rushing toward the source.

    The others still searching for opportunities and treasures in various corners of the microcosm also sensed the hugemotion. They also quickly flew toward the source.

    Soon, Chen Fan¡¯s group arrived at the depth of the microcosm. They were now deep inside an unbroken mountain range.

    A massive, over ten kilometers long, flood dragon was sprawled on the ground here. However, it was just a grotto shaped like a flood dragon, not a real one.

    The Third Dragon Lord and the others stood in front of the Flood Dragon Grotto, looking rather upset.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    Naturally, the Third Dragon Lord sensed Chen Fan approaching. He narrowed his eyes, which carried deep hostility.

    They had identally triggered the Flood Dragon Grotto, which used to be underground. For some reason, they triggered it and caused the earth to crack open, revealing the Flood Dragon Grotto and creating a ruckus.

    ¡°Chen Fan, get lost with your people immediately. We discovered this ce. It has nothing to do with you!¡± threatened the Third Dragon Lord.

    The other Dragon God Army members¡¯ gazes were also very cold. Strong killing intent emanated from them.

    They had discovered the Flood Dragon Grotto, so they didn¡¯t want other people toy their fingers on it.

    They were upset because they had no idea how they had made the Flood Dragon Grotto appear. Had they known how this worked, they would have taken the opportunities and treasures inside silently.

    Chen Fan did not care about the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s threat at all.

    Treasures and opportunities were right in front of him. How could he leave?

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    Suddenly, more wind-breaking noises rang out, causing the Third Dragon Lord and the others¡¯ expressions to darken.

 Chapter 650 - Opening the Entrance

    <h4>Chapter 650 - Opening the Entrance</h4>

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    The neers made the Third Dragon Lord and his people¡¯s faces darken.

    They had unknowingly activated the Flood Dragon Grotto, creating quite amotion. They knew it was impossible to keep this hidden, but despite their efforts, they couldn¡¯t find the entrance, missing their chance to take the lead.

    The Third Dragon Lord tried sting the flood dragon''s head, believing the indentation there was the key to unlocking the grotto. But without the key, brute force did nothing.

    The Flood Dragon Grotto was constructed from some unknown, incredibly tough material. Even though the Third Dragon Lord had already reached the peak of the sixth-level Divine Nascent realm, he couldn¡¯t make a dent.

    ¡°Heavens, what is this? A ten thousand meters long flood dragon fossil?¡±

    ¡°No, this is a Flood Dragon Grotto!¡±

    ¡°This must be the treasure trove left behind by the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold. There must be plenty of natural treasures of heaven and earth within.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Soon, many people rushed here. Their initial shock quickly gave way to an intense, burning greed as they took in the sight of the Flood Dragon Grotto.

    Not long after, Xiao Yan, the Seventh Young Master, the revered elder, and the others also arrived.

    Their cultivation had all improved markedly.

    Xiao Yan and the Seventh Young Master¡¯s cultivation was about the same as the Third Dragon Lord, being only a step away from reaching the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm.

    On the other hand, the revered elder had already broken through to the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm.

    His terrifying cultivation aura was simply overwhelming heaven and earth. Among the people here, which numbered over a hundred, his cultivation was the highest. Still, that didn¡¯t mean he could suppress the Third Dragon Lord, the Seventh Young Master, and the others.

    These top geniuses could challenge those at a higher level. Even though the revered elder¡¯s cultivation was higher than theirs, they did not fear him at all.

    ¡°Hoho, Third Dragon Lord, I didn¡¯t expect you to be so lucky to open the Flood Dragon Grotto,¡± said the Seventh Young Master with a smile, holding his Mountain and River Fan in his hand, though his words contained a hint of mockery.

    The disturbance caused by the Flood Dragon Grotto was too great¡ªit shook the entire microcosm.

    Had the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s group quietly opened the grotto, no one else would have been involved, and all the opportunities and treasures inside would have been theirs alone.

    If that had happened, their cultivation would have soared, leaving the others far behind.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± The Third Dragon Lord snorted in frustration, his face dark and silent.

    This was beyond their control. They didn¡¯t want things to turn out this way, but there was no stopping it.

    They had no idea how the Flood Dragon Grotto even appeared¡ªit just emerged after they arrived.

    Xiao Yan narrowed his eyes, inspecting the grotto. ¡°The area at the flood dragon¡¯s mouth should be the entrance, but too bad it¡¯s not open. Looks like a key is needed, probably a token.¡±

    The revered elder said, ¡°Token? Who obtained a token in the microcosm? Take it out now.¡±

    No one responded.

    Chen Fan looked at the Flood Dragon Grotto, realizing that the Flood Dragon Token was likely the key. His heart raced, and without hesitation, he strode forward under the watchful eyes of the crowd.

    The crowd stared at him.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, no need to waste your energy. Not even I could st open the entrance, let alone you!¡± The Third Dragon Lord didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to have the Flood Dragon Token. Assuming that Chen Fan would also try to force his way in, he taunted him.

    ¡°Idiot!¡± Chen Fan spat out a word, infuriating the Third Dragon Lord. Thetter¡¯s true primeval stirred, seemingly ready to kill Chen Fan.

    However, Chen Fan ignored him. He flipped his palm and the Flood Dragon Token appeared, freezing the Third Dragon Lord in ce.

    As Chen Fan took out the Flood Dragon Token, everyone¡¯s gazes fell on him. None of them expected Chen Fan to have obtained the token. His luck was a little too good.

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes also flickered unsteadily. He was filled with a burning desire to snatch it away.

    How perfect would it be if the token were in his hands? He could have opened the grotto the moment it appeared and imed all the treasures for himself.

    Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Chen Fan ced the Flood Dragon Token into the groove at the flood dragon¡¯s mouth.

    Immediately, a flood dragon¡¯s roar echoed through the air.

    Then, the entire Flood Dragon Grotto shook. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, the flood dragon¡¯s closed mouth slowly opened.

    This sight ignited a fire in the eyes of everyone present.

    The Flood Dragon Token Chen Fan held was indeed the key to the entrance. And now that it was open, who knew what treasuresy within?

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    The flood dragon¡¯s mouth slowly opened as everyone focused their attention on it.

    Soon, the entrance openedpletely.

    A fierce light immediately shot out of the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes, and he charged at Chen Fan, ready to send out a palm strike.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    His dragon w was iparably sharp. Combined with his peak sixth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation, this attack was definitely capable of heavily injuring a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Killing intent shot out of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He sent out a palm strike of his own.

    The two attacks shed; in an instant, the air exploded. Immense qi waves rushed out.

    Chen Fan was pushed three steps back, but the Third Dragon Lord did not gain any advantages, either.

    A vicious light shone in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. He shed down violently with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, determined to cut the Third Dragon Lord in half.

    <i>C!</i>

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s expression darkened. He did not dare to receive it head on and hurriedly fell back.

    With a thunderous crash, the halberd¡¯s sh left a massive fissure in the earth.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Chen Fan shouted after forcing the Third Dragon Lord back, taking the lead and turning into a streak of light, rushing into the entrance.

    Once inside, it felt as though he had entered the flood dragon¡¯s mouth. The space was vast,rge enough tofortably fit over ten thousand people.

    Thirty-six passages appeared in front of Chen Fan, their ends shrouded in pitch-ck darkness. It was impossible to tell where each path led.

    After pondering for a bit, Chen Fan could only rely on his intuition. He chose a passage and brought Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin with him, rushing inside.

    When the Third Dragon Lord, Xiao Yan, and the others came in, they also saw this scene, but they each picked a different passage.

    Whether they could obtain treasures or opportunities would depend entirely on their luck.

    Clearly, these thirty-six passages held different challenges and rewards. If they all entered the same one, conflict would be inevitable.

    They were all the most outstanding geniuses, determining a victor in such a sh wouldn¡¯t be easy. To avoid such a scenario, none of them chose the same path.

 Chapter 651 - Illusory Realm

    <h4>Chapter 651 - Illusory Realm</h4>

    It didn¡¯t take long for the hundred or so people who had entered the Flood Dragon Grotto to disperse into the thirty-six passages.

    Shortly after stepping into the passageway, Chen Fan encountered a water door. Through it, he could see his own reflection.

    Chen Fan walked toward it.

    Without hesitation, he stepped forward and passed through the water door. As he did, it rippled and dissolved into the surrounding cave, releasing a faint glow resembling the light of true primeval.

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure flickered as he advanced swiftly, asionally scanning his surroundings.

    Soon, a group appeared in front of him. Rumbling noises rang out. Large boulders moved, transforming into huge walls that blocked his way.

    ¡°People?¡± Chen Fan narrowed his gaze slightly. These boulders had morphed into stone men, obstructing his way.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>.¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly and stepped forward.

    They were little more than stone puppets. Although crafted to resemble humans, they were still just rocks. No matter how powerful a puppet was, it could never match a human.

    Several powerful stone fists flew toward him to stop his advance.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Judging by the force of their aura, Chen Fan sensed their power¡ªequivalent to the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°They¡¯re at my cultivation level?¡±

    Chen Fan charged at the stone figures and unleashed a violent palm strike. A terrifying force erupted, sting and destroying everything.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    The stone men shattered.

    Though these puppets had fourth-level Divine Nascent realm strength and defense, they were no match for Chen Fan. He could effortlessly destroy those at the same cultivation level.

    They might have the same cultivation level, but theirbat strengths were onpletely different levels. How could they withstand Chen Fan¡¯s attack?!

    Chen Fan pressed forward. However, before long, another water door blocked his path.

    Raising his eyebrow, Chen Fan didn¡¯t slow down and was about to pass through it again when a silhouette slowly emerged from within the water door, forcing him to halt in his tracks.

    To his surprise, the figure stepping out looked exactly like him.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± Chen Fan furrowed his brow, staring fixedly at the copy.

    How could this be? This figure wasn¡¯t just simr¡ªit was an exact copy of him.

    <i>The first water door... could it have copied me when I passed through?</i> Chen Fan thought.

    That was the only exnation. Otherwise, why was there a copy of him here?

    ¡°I knew it. This Flood Dragon Grotto wouldn¡¯t be so simple. It¡¯s not just me; I am sure the others are facing the same challenge. We have to fight and ovee ourselves. It¡¯s a test¡ªa trial to surpass one¡¯s own limits."

    ¡°Wait!¡± Chen Fan suddenly awoke with a start, a look of shock flickering in his eyes.

    ¡°Wait! Where are Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin? Why aren¡¯t they here with me? They entered this passage with me. So why didn¡¯t they appear?¡± A sharp light shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Only now did he notice that they had vanished.

    Chen Fan wasn''t the only one. It seemed that everyone who had followed him into the passageway had disappeared as well.

    ¡°Could this be an individual test?¡± His eyes flickered with uncertainty, unable to piece things together.

    ¡°Forget it, I¡¯llplete this challenge first. Hopefully, they¡¯re both fine,¡± he muttered, shaking his head to clear his thoughts.

    Stepping forward, Chen Fan shot toward that fake him.

    The doppelganger moved simultaneously, its palm strike carrying power equal to Chen Fan¡¯s.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The collision sent both Chen Fan and the fake figure flying backward, the exact same distance.

    ¡°Its power is identical to mine. How is this possible!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s gaze becamepletely serious.

    He had expected this imitation to crumble like the stone puppets, but the reality was far different. The fake figure¡¯s strength was on par with his own.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan stepped forward. An extremely bitingly cold murderous aura churned.

    Just as he unleashed his killing intent, so did the fake, mirroring him perfectly.

    ¡°sh!¡± Chen Fan swung his Purgatory Divine Halberd. A rumbling explosion rang out as he looked closely at his opponent.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    The doppelganger summoned an identical Purgatory Divine Halberd and mirrored Chen Fan¡¯s attack, even matching the precise trajectory of his sh.

    The two attacks collided violently, producing rumbling noises. The space rippled intensely.

    ¡°Calm down!¡± Chen Fan told himself, briefly closing his eyes before opening them again, now calmer. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he stepped forward slowly.

    This time, he released no aura, his presence so serene it seemed as though he had merged with the stillness around him.

    The doppelganger lifted its feet simultaneously, walking toward Chen Fan, until the two figures met.

    ¡°Goodbye.¡±

    Chen Fan tilted sideways slightly. The other him also tilted. Facing one another, the two brushed past each other.

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    A soft, trembling sound filled the air. The fake figure before Chen Fan dissolved into vapor, vanishing as if it had never existed.

    <i>I was wrong. The real challenge isn¡¯t about defeating oneself. It seems others might be trapped in the same misconception, trying to defeat their reflection.</i> Chen Fan thought.

    The goal wasn¡¯t to win against oneself but to see through the illusion.

    The more one fought, the more they proved their failure, as this was an illusory realm¡ªlike a reflection in the water. It tested their state of mind.

    Chen Fan turned around. Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen were right behind him. Both were engaged in relentless attacks against the void, trapped in their own illusions.

    It was not only the two of them. Others who had entered after them were also ensnared, fiercely battling their own doppelganger, oblivious to the real trap.

    ¡°Amazing, it can trap people in illusions without them realizing it. If they can¡¯t see through it, they might be stuck here forever. I wonder if the other thirty-five passageways are also like this?¡± Chen Fan sighed in admiration. He couldn¡¯t help but admit that the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s methods were truly brilliant.

    ¡°Wake up!¡±

    Chen Fan sent out a powerful spirit will. Like thunder rumbling in a clear sky, it exploded in Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin¡¯s illusory realms.

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice suddenly rang out while they were fiercely battling against themselves. As if they were enlightened with perfect wisdom, the two realized that they had been tricked.

    Soon, their gazes became focused as they snapped themselves out of the illusory realm.

 Chapter 652 - Flood Dragon Transformation Pool

    <h4>Chapter 652 - Flood Dragon Transformation Pool</h4>

    To conquer oneself, true victoryy not in physical strength but in the strength of the mind.

    The state of mind was the foundation of the martial path. Only by strengthening one''s mind could cultivation follow suit.

    With Chen Fan¡¯s help, Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin came to their senses from the illusory realm one after another. Then, the trio broke through the water door and arrived at a stone room.

    In the center of the room were several stone tforms, each holding various treasures¡ªartifacts, rare natural resources, martial arts manuals, and more.

    ¡°This should be the reward for passing the illusory realm¡¯s test.¡± Xiao Zhen¡¯s eyes shone brightly as he looked at the objects on the stone tform.

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>, let¡¯s get it.¡± Chen Fan stepped forward, striding toward one of the stone tforms.

    Soon, the trio each took a treasure. However, when they reached out for a second treasure, an invisible barrier blocked their path.

    ¡°We can only choose one treasure!¡± A look of regret surfaced on Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin¡¯s faces. There were so many treasures here, but each person could only choose one, making them feel a little unwilling.

    After all, the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold no longer existed today.

    Chen Fan tried to force his way through and im a second treasure, but he was met with an intense bacsh. The recoil struck him hard, leaving him shocked by its power.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Chen Fan said, brushing off the encounter. He knew any further attempts would be pointless.

    The Flood Dragon Grotto was likely a testing ground for the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold disciples. They would be rewarded after passing a stage. However, each person could only choose one treasure.

    Even though the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold no longer existed today, this rule of the Flood Dragon Grotto was still in effect.

    Going around the stone tforms, the trio walked to the back. There was a passageway there, which probably led to the next stage.

    Whaty ahead was daunting¡ªa magma me passageway. The corridor was entirely engulfed in terrifying mes, radiating an oppressive, searing heat.

    Even before stepping inside, the trio could feel the overwhelming heat assaulting them, causing sweat to pour from their skin.

    ¡°So hot.¡± Qiu Yuexin furrowed her brow, looking at the magma fire passageway in front.

    Despite their cultivation levels, the scorching heat was unbearable, seeming to roast them alive.

    ¡°This stage won¡¯t be easy,¡± Xiao Zhen remarked, his expression grave. ¡°Even third or fourth-level Divine Nascent realm experts would struggle to make it through this.¡±

    Chen Fan stared at the me passageway in front of him. The entire path ahead was bathed in a fiery red glow, the mes flickering with a deadly allure.

    ¡°The power of this me is on par with a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm¡¯s me intent. You two should be carefulter. Shield yourselves as best you can and follow closely behind me,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Although this magma me passage could threaten a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, it did not pose much of a threat to him. He could skip ranks inbat, so these mes, though deadly to others, posed little threat to him. Even a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm me could not hinder him.

    Stepping forward, Chen Fan strode into the magma passageway confidently.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A snake of mes red toward Chen Fan. However, before it could get within ten feet of him, he neutralized it with a palm strike.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    A furious roar rang out before several terrifying fiery lights whizzed past Chen Fan. They were actually ming demonic beasts, born from mes.

    With a quick thought, the Heaven Seizing Furnace immediately appeared.

    ¡°Go.¡± Waving his hand, he made the furnace fly before him.

    A terrifying suction force blossomed. The Heaven Seizing Furnace pulled in the miserable ming beasts; they wailed as the furnace turned them into nothing.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace could even refine heaven and earth, so these creatures posed no threat to Chen Fan at all.

    Behind him, Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin watched in disbelief, their expressions a mix of awe and admiration. Chen Fan walked through the magma passage like he was walking on the ground. He hadn''t even activated his protective true primeval energy¡ªhis physique alone withstood the unbearable mes.

    In stark contrast, Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin had wrapped themselves inyers of true primeval energy, channeling their cultivation to its limits to block the oppressive heat.

    Still, their protective barriers twisted and warped under the relentless assault of the scorching mes. They struggled just to keep moving forward.

    Without Chen Fan leading the way and clearing the ming demonic beasts ambushing them with the Heaven Seizing Furnace, they would have faced a far more difficult ordeal.

    Chen Fan pressed on, undeterred by the me or the fiery lights that asionally rushed toward him. The Heaven Seizing Furnace spun, obliterating all threats in its path.

    Before he knew it, Chen Fan had crossed the several-thousand-meter-long magma passageway. As he reached the end, the mes abruptly disappeared, and he found himself momentarily wishing the trial hadsted just a little longer.

    As for Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen, the magma passageway that stretched several kilometers was nothing short of grueling. Without Chen Fan¡¯s assistance, they would have struggled to make it through.

    ¡°Phew, we owe this to you. We couldn¡¯t have cleared that passageway without you,¡± said Xiao Zhen, exhaling a long breath and wiping the sweat that clung to his brow.

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s continue. I wonder what the reward will be for passing this stage?¡± Chen Fan smiled faintly. The trio continued moving.

    They arrived at another stone room. It looked identical to the one before, with several stone tforms erected, and treasures ced on them.

    They now knew that they could only choose one treasure. So, they did not make their choice right away. Instead, they looked around and picked a treasure that suited them.

    As they ventured deeper into the Flood Dragon Grotto, the path seemed endless.

    The passageways spiraled downward, their depth unknowable, but each stage brought new treasures, making their efforts worthwhile.

    Finally, they came across a very long set of stairs. It descended several hundred meters underground before it came to an end.

    Before them stretched a massive hall, towering hundreds of meters in height, its vast width shrouded in mystery.

    In the center was a blood pool that spanned thousands of feet wide, with a faint pressure emanating from it. Apart from that, the hall was empty.

    Chen Fan looked around the hall and discovered there were a total of thirty-six sets of staircases. It seemed every passageway would converge at this hall.

    However, it was evident that the three of them were the first to arrive here.

    Xiao Zhen looked at the blood pool in the center. Sensing the pressure emanating from it, his gaze became serious. ¡°What is this pool?¡±

    Qiu Yuexin looked at the blood pool. Her eyes flickered, and she said, ¡°This seems to be... a Flood Dragon Transformation Pool!¡±

    The entire blood pool was thin and long, like a river. If one were to look from above, one would realize that this blood pool resembled a flood dragon.

    ¡°Legend has it that the flood dragons are the sub-dragon species closest to a true dragon. While many demonic beasts have a bit of a true dragon¡¯s bloodline, they rarely act like true dragons. In contrast, flood dragons are far more simr to true dragons in both their habits and appearance. This Flood Dragon Transformation Pool is the hard evidence of that.¡±

    Qiu Yuexin was a bit knowledgeable about the subject. She continued, ¡°I once read in an ancient book, saying that a Dragon Transformation Pool existed in the depths of the Dragon Realm. Sub-dragon species, if given the chance to bathe in it, could purge the remnants of other demonic beasts from their bloodline, transforming into a true dragon with pure blood.

    ¡°The flood dragonmunities are known to have Flood Dragon Transformation Pools. These pools are formed by powerful flood dragon powerhouses, who release a portion of their blood essence into the pool. Some sub-dragon species could also bathe in it to transform into a flood dragon with a pure bloodline.¡±

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    Sharp wind-breaking noises rang out.

 Chapter 653 - Flood Dragon Corpse Demons

    <h4>Chapter 653 - Flood Dragon Corpse Demons</h4>

    Chen Fan looked at Qiu Yuexin, surprised at her extensive knowledge.

    ¡°It¡¯s a shame though, the flood dragon¡¯s blood essence here is nearly depleted. I¡¯d say only about ten to twenty percent remains,¡± Qiu Yuexin remarked.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°That¡¯s more than enough. After all, this blood pool isn¡¯t small.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, hehe. This is the blood of a flood dragon. Even if we don¡¯t gain its bloodline, a dip in this pool will still strengthen our physique. This is good stuff,¡± Xiao Zhen said with a smile, his eyes practically glowing.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    Suddenly, the sound of wind slicing through the air echoed as the Third Dragon Lord and his group emerged from their respective passageways.

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord and the others froze when they saw Chen Fan¡¯s group already there, surprised to find him ahead of them.

    ¡°Flood Dragon Transformation Pool!¡± eximed the City Lord Manor¡¯s revered elder in shock.

    He was vastly knowledgeable and recognized what the blood pool was at once.

    ¡°Excellent. Even though it¡¯s only the blood of a flood dragon, it¡¯s still quite valuable.¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord already had a true dragon¡¯s bloodline. Though flood dragons were inferior to true dragons, the power of the flood dragon blood might surpass his current true dragon bloodline.

    If he could bathe in this Flood Dragon Transformation Pool and absorb the remaining essence, it could significantly improve his bloodline¡¯s strength.

    The Third Dragon Lord wanted to take action and quickly collect the flood dragon¡¯s blood.

    Suddenly, the pool of blood began bubbling.

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    <i>Ssh!</i>

    The blood churned violently as if a massive creature beneath the surface was stirring, ready to break free.

    Momentster, twenty colossal beasts shot out of the pool.

    ¡°Flood Dragon Corpse Demons! They are Flood Dragon Corpse Demons!¡± eximed the Seventh Young Master.

    These massive creatures had no flesh or blood¡ªonly bones. Their skeletal structures clearly identified them as flood dragons.

    Chen Fan took in the scene. The monsters that flew out of the blood pool were indeed flood dragon bones, perfectly intact with no signs of damage.

    If they regained flesh and blood, they¡¯d be real flood dragons.

    Immediately, a terrifying flood dragon aura surged through the hall, sweeping over everyone like a violent storm.

    This sudden turn of events shocked everyone present.

    None of them had ever imagined that there would be Flood Dragon Corpse Demons in the blood pool.

    Judging from the Flood Dragon Corpse Demons¡¯ aura, they were definitely not weak. The strongest ones wereparable to the sixth or seventh-level Divine Nascent realm, while the weaker ones were in the first or second-level Divine Nascent realm.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± These Flood Dragon Corpse Demons roared angrily one after another. Their roars shook heaven and earth, causing therge hall to shake violently as if it were about to copse.

    These Flood Dragon Corpse Demons shot water swords from their mouths. The sharp water swords cut through the air, flying toward Chen Fan and the others.

    These Flood Dragon Corpse Demons had been powerful when alive. Although they had turned into corpse demons after death, possessing less than ten percent of their strength, they were still flood dragons. Their attacks were still ferocious.

    The water swords weren¡¯t ordinary; they had spell formations cast on them, boosting their power significantly.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly and pushed his palm out. A massive golden palm seal formed, covering the sky and crushing the air until it exploded. The palm grasped the iing water swords and crushed them effortlessly.

    Xiao Yan, the Third Dragon Lord, and the others quickly unleashed their techniques.

    The hall became a battlefield of chaotic energies as their qi shed with the flood dragons¡¯ overwhelming auras. Violent forces collided, making the space tremble.

    Those present were all elites on the Ancient Trial Road, elite among the elites. They all stood out among others at the same cultivation level. Naturally, their attack power was extraordinary.

    Although the flood dragons¡¯ water swords were powerful, they posed no real threat to Chen Fan and his group.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, very well. They are allplete flood dragon skeletons; rare treasures indeed!¡± The revered elderughed out loud. His seventh-level Divine Nascent realm aura swept out. A massive hand expanded from him, stretching to cover nearly the entire underground hall as it wed toward the flood dragon skeletons.

    Although flood dragons were merely a sub-dragon species, they were the closest to true dragons and still an incredibly powerful race.

    Had these flood dragons been alive, these humans would have had no choice but to run as far as they could. Even then, they might not have escaped.

    However, these were just Flood Dragon Corpse Demons, no longer a significant threat. Naturally, none would pass up the chance to seize such a valuable opportunity.

    These flood dragon bones were precious materials for forging divine weapons. It was rare to find such treasures anywhere on the Tianwu Continent.

    Chen Fan and the others were the same. They attacked one after another, nning to seize these Flood Dragon Corpse Demons.

    In an instant,rge hands swept across the air in the underground hall, smacking down. The momentum was shocking. None of them gave way to the others, bombarding these Flood Dragon Corpse Demons. The air exploded continuously.

    Therge hands summoned by Chen Fan and the others resembled a giant fishing, with the Flood Dragon Corpse Demons caught like fish, struggling but unable to escape the relentless attacks raining down on them.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    These Flood Dragon Corpse Demons spared no effort in retaliating. Bolts of lightning shot out from their mouths, churning violently. The air filled with thick mists and clouds as thunder roared and lightning shed.

    These Flood Dragon Corpse Demons were enraged. They opened their mouths wide, unleashing overwhelming auras that mmed violently into therge hands, causing them to tremble and nearly copse under the pressure.

    Although the Flood Dragon Corpse Demons weren¡¯t strong enough and did not pose much of a threat to Chen Fan and the others, they were still flood dragons with remnants of their former power. They weren¡¯t so easy to deal with.

    A faint golden luster erupted from Chen Fan as he channeled the Hegemonic Golden Body.

    ¡°Come at me!¡±

    Power burst forth from him, blossoming with an extremely powerful and oppressive aura as he caught a sixth-level Divine Nascent realm Flood Dragon Corpse Demon.

    No matter how hard it struggled or roared, it couldn¡¯t break free from therge hand.

    A terrifying force mmed into the Flood Dragon Corpse Demon, destroying its spiritual will and reducing it to a lifeless skeleton. Chen Fan quickly stored the skeleton away.

    Naturally, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t the only one making gains. Xiao Yan, the Third Dragon Lord, and the others, though no weaklings themselves, used their own immense strength to shatter the spiritual will of the Flood Dragon Corpse Demons and im their skeletons.

    Even those with slightly lower strength, like Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen, walked away with their own rewards.

    Of course, it went without saying that it was impossible for them toy their hands on the fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm Flood Dragon Corpse Demons. Instead, they targeted the first or second-level Divine Nascent realm Flood Dragon Corpse Demons.

    They were all fourth or fifth-level Divine Nascent realm experts. Dealing with first and second-level Divine Nascent realm Flood Dragon Corpse Demons was easy for them.

 Chapter 654 - Flood Dragon Fist Scripture

    <h4>Chapter 654 - Flood Dragon Fist Scripture</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Explosions rang out nonstop in the underground hall.

    ¡°<i>Roar, roar</i>!¡±

    The Flood Dragon Corpse Demons roared in fury, their might filling the air, but it did nothing to intimidate Chen Fan and the others. Their spiritual wisdom was beaten out of them, turning them into loot for the group.

    In no time, the crowd had divided the twenty or so Flood Dragon Corpse Demons among themselves.

    Without wasting a moment, Chen Fan began collecting the flood dragon blood essence.

    The essence was valuable to him, capable of strengthening his Hegemonic Golden Body, making him even stronger. So, he couldn¡¯t let this opportunity go.

    A massive hand shot out, trying to seize the entire blood pool.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    ¡°Audacious!¡± The Third Dragon Lord roared in anger, unleashing a divine light attack.

    He, too, had set his sights on the flood dragon blood essence.

    ¡°Brat, you are too greedy. You¡¯re like a snake trying to swallow an elephant¡ªcourting death!¡±

    The revered elder, the seventh young master, and the others followed suit, trying to take the flood dragon blood essence.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Several powerful forces shed, shaking the entire underground hall violently.

    Chen Fan quickly realized that monopolizing the blood pool was impossible with the others present, so he abandoned the idea of iming it all.

    The fight broke out as everyone scrambled for the flood dragon blood essence, each using their abilities to seize what they could.

    Soon, they also divided up the blood pool among themselves.

    <i>Boom, crack, crack!</i>

    Suddenly, a loud rumble echoed through the chamber. The ground trembled violently, and the now-empty blood pool sank deeper into the earth.

    A stone tform slowly emerged from the pit, revealing a book resting atop it. Four bold characters on its cover read: Flood Dragon Fist Scripture.

    While none could discern the exact tier of the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, its cement here strongly suggested it was of heaven-tier quality¡ªsomething rare and highly coveted.

    Everyone¡¯s gazes turned fiery in an instant, and even their breathing sped up, looking straight at the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I possess a true dragon¡¯s bloodline, and I discovered the Flood Dragon Grotto. There is no question¡ªthe Flood Dragon Fist Scripture belongs to me. Only someone like me, with a dragon''s heritage, is worthy of mastering it,¡± said the Third Dragon Lord; simultaneously, he flew straight toward the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, wanting to seize it.

    ¡°That¡¯s rich! You think it¡¯s yours just because you say so?¡± scoffed the Seventh Young Master.

    Without hesitation, he, the revered elder, and the others unleashed their power as they rushed toward the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture.

    How precious was a heaven-tier martial art!

    It was a treasure so rare that even overlord forces like the True Martial Academy had only a few, with limited ess to them. For martial artists, having such a martial art was a game-changer, capable of boosting theirbat prowess beyond fellow cultivators at the same cultivation level.

    Although Chen Fan had already learned one heaven-tier martial art, Green Lotus Sword Scripture, he would not mind adding another to his repertoire.

    If a heaven-tier martial art was ced in the outside world, it would immediately bring about a bloody storm.

    ¡°You¡¯re asking to die! This Flood Dragon Fist Scripture is mine, how dare you people try to seize it?! You deserve to die a thousand times!¡± bellowed the Third Dragon Lord, his fury igniting. The might of his true dragon bloodline exploded, his aura surging to terrifying heights, shaking the entire underground hall.

    However, everyone present were extraordinary figures. Who among them did note across their fair share of fortuitous encounters and opportunities?

    ¡°Third Dragon Lord, mere words can¡¯t decide the ownership of the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture,¡± the Seventh Young Master scoffed, waving his hand. A mountain range formed and pressed toward the Third Dragon Lord.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Third Dragon Lord lifted his arm to the sky. A dragon w formed, shredding this mountain range to pieces and reducing it into primeval qi of heaven and earth.

    Immediately afterward, it tore through space violently and struck down, aiming to kill the Seventh Young Master.

    ¡°Whoever dares to seize my Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, know this: the Dragon God Army will hunt you to the ends of the earth until death!¡± roared the Third Dragon Lord angrily. His aura kept soaring, bing very terrifying.

    Even when they were fighting for the Dragon Marrow previously, the Third Dragon Lord hadn¡¯t activated his bloodline power. For the first time, he unleashed the full power of his true dragon bloodline, making it clear that the scripture belonged to him.

    ¡°Dragon God Army? It might be able to threaten others, but against us? It¡¯s not qualified!¡± The revered elder sneered coldly, not caring about the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s threat at all.

    In front of a heaven-tier martial art, the threat of the Dragon God Army was nothing.

    ¡°You two, be careful. Find an opportunity to retreat. This fight is not something you can participate in,¡± said Chen Fan to Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen before joining the fray.

    Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen knew all too well that they were no match for the terrifying powers at y. Staying would only burden Chen Fan.

    While they too coveted the ancient martial art, they understood their limits. Even if they obtained it, it would bring disaster upon them as they were not strong enough to protect it.

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo.</i>

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop.</i>

    <i>Boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    In an instant, the entire underground hall turned into a battlefield. A bitter and chaotic fight broke out.

    In here, everyone was an enemy.

    ¡°Ahhh, you people are courting death! You really are courting death! How dare you people stop me from obtaining the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, you deserve to die!¡± The Third Dragon Lord waspletely enraged. His eyes turned bloodshot. His attacks were so terrifying that the space trembled non-stop, struggling to contain them.

    ¡°The Flood Dragon Fist Scripture belongs to this old man!¡± The revered elder broke through the blockade and appeared next to the stone tform. He was about to smash the boundary and get his hands on the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture.

    ¡°Old man, you think you can fight with us?¡± said Chen Fan as his sword cleaved toward the revered elder, sending a sharp, cutting wind through the hall.

    The sharp aura seemed as if it would cut the world in half as it shed toward the revered elder violently.

    The revered elder was caught off guard by Chen Fan¡¯s sudden and terrifying sword qi attack. He couldn¡¯t react in time, so his outreached arm was severed.

    ¡°Ah!¡± The revered elder let out a miserable scream.

    ¡°Go to hell!¡± Chen Fan stabbed violently toward the revered elder¡¯s head with his halberd, aiming to y him.

    The revered elder instantly sensed a deadly intent shrouding him. He got chills all over and immediately retreated with all his strength.

    Chen Fan did not pursue him. After forcing the revered elder back, he stabbed out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, shattering the boundaries around the stone tform and lifted it out.

    ¡°This Flood Dragon Fist Scripture is mine!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered fiercely as he was about to get his hands on the martial art manual.

    But things were far from over.

    ¡°Thinking of getting the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture? You¡¯re still a bitcking!¡±

    Xiao Yan unleashed a sea of mes, his intent clear: turn Chen Fan into ashes.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 655 - In the Bag

    <h4>Chapter 655 - In the Bag</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Xiao Yan, with his fire spirit body, wielded nine types of primeval mes, all of which he had cultivated to the realm of major mastery, making him a terrifying foe.

    The sea of mes roared across the battlefield, distorting space with its terrifying power.

    Even an expert at the same cultivation level would not dare to receive this attack head-on, forced to dodge instead.

    After all, putting aside Xiao Yan¡¯s immense strength, his primeval mes alone were unusual mes of heaven and earth. Their sheer power was enough to burn down heaven and earth if unleashed fully.

    Yet, despite the overwhelming danger, Chen Fan stood his ground, showing no intention of dodging.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace materialized and expanded infinitely and swallowed the sea of mes like an open maw.

    ¡°What!¡± Xiao Yan¡¯s expression darkened. He never expected Chen Fan to have such a technique.

    What kind of furnace could devour his primeval mes?

    With a darkened expression, Xiao Yan immediately channeled his cultivation, wanting to cause a recoil.

    However, in the next moment, hisplexion instantly paled. A low groan escaped him as he stared at Chen Fan in disbelief.

    His connection to the sea of mes was severed.

    That was the power of mes he had cultivated, which contained his mark. Normally, even if someone trapped or took control of them, he could trigger a bacsh with his technique, causing the mes to explode with destructive force.

    But against Chen Fan, none of this worked. His connection to the mes waspletely cut off.

    Xiao Yan didn¡¯t just lose control of the sea of mes; his cultivation had also taken a hit. His aura faltered, bing unstable, and even the mes surrounding him flickered like illusions.

    ¡°You... how is this possible?¡± Xiao Yan said with difficulty, looking at Chen Fan with trembling eyes.

    Chen Fan said indifferently, ¡°Nothing is impossible. Primeval mes might be a huge threat to others, but to me, hoho.¡±

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace could refine everything in heaven and earth, including primeval mes. No matter how powerful or rare they were, they were nothing in the face of the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    Chen Fan effortlessly refined Xiao Yan¡¯s imprint from the sea of mes. That sea contained thebined power of nine primeval mes¡ªthough it wasn¡¯t their full strength, it was still formidable.

    Yet now, those mes became fuel for the heaven-refining mes, making them even more powerful.

    Ignoring Xiao Yan¡¯splicated expression, Chen Fan grabbed the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture.

    ¡°Bastard, you¡¯re courting death¡±!

    ¡°You bastard, put down the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture and your life will be spared!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master, locked in a fierce battle, instantly broke off their fight when they saw the scripture fall into Chen Fan''s hands. They rushed toward him.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly, unleashing a Green Lotus Sword Qi.

    With a deafening tear, the sword qi seemed as if it could split heaven and earth, shredding through the Third Dragon Lord and Seventh Young Master¡¯s attacks without resistance.

    The terrifying sword qi mmed into the Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master, sending them flying as they spat blood along the way.

    Green Lotus Sword Scripture was a heaven-tier martial art, and Chen Fan had cultivated it to the eighthyer. At this stage, his four streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi were more than twice as powerful as they had been at the seventhyer. The Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master stood no chance of blocking them.

    As for the Dragon God Army and Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s ordinary members, they were annihted by that single attack¡ªnone survived.

    After sending the two flying, Chen Fan did not waste any time. He immediately transformed into a streak of light and shot off into the distance.

    Neither Xiao Yan nor the revered elder dared to try to stop him.

    One had his arm severed by Chen Fan, significantly weakening hisbat power, while the other had lost control of his sea of mes, leaving his cultivation in ruins. On top of that, Xiao Yan now felt a deep apprehension toward Chen Fan¡¯s Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    Even the Third Dragon Lord, the Seventh Young Master, and the others were fearful of Xiao Yan¡¯s nine primeval mes, but Chen Fan was not afraid at all.

    If Xiao Yan dared use them again, Chen Fan would just devour and refine them, making it more trouble than it was worth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare try to leave, bastard!¡± The Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master red at him, so angry that their eyes seemed about to pop out. Thest thing they wanted was for the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture to fall into Chen Fan¡¯s hands, but it had happened before their very eyes.

    Immediately, the two ignored their injuries and gave chase.

    Xiao Yan and the revered elder followed behind.

    The Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master couldn¡¯t let Chen Fan take the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture away just like this.

    It was a heaven-tier martial art, after all. Even a Heavenly Star realm or a Manifestation realm super powerhouse would fight tooth and nail for such a martial art manual.

    Xiao Yan and the revered elder knew that Chen Fan would fight the Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master, possibly to death. Their chance woulde once both sides were gravely wounded.

    Chen Fan moved very quickly and with ease, seemingly very familiar with the path and rushed out of the Flood Dragon Grotto.

    Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen had left earlier and were waiting for him outside. As soon as they saw him, they called out, "Chen Fan!"

    ¡°Leave quickly. Get out of here, don¡¯t follow me!¡± Chen Fan shouted over his shoulder without looking back, speeding off into the distance.

    Qiu Yuexin and Xiao Zhen¡¯s expressions changed greatly, realizing that Chen Fan had gotten the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be fleeing in such a hurry.

    Immediately, the two flitted away in another direction.

    Soon, two terrifying auras rushed out of the Flood Dragon Grotto. An angry roar resounded through the microcosm.

    ¡°Bastard, where do you think you¡¯re going? Stay here!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s terrifying aura churned and exploded. He was extremely furious.

    From the start, he had never taken Chen Fan seriously, convinced he could easily kill him if they fought in the microcosm.

    However, in the fight for the Dragon Marrow, Chen Fan had killed Cao Yuan with overwhelming strength, shocking everyone.

    Only then did the Third Dragon Lord begin to see Chen Fan as a formidable opponent.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space trembled as a terrifying dragon w shattered the void, swiping toward Chen Fan. The air exploded by the inch, causing the winds to rise and the clouds to surge.

    He was determined to obtain the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture. He would never allow Chen Fan to take it away just like that.

    The Seventh Young Master also struck mercilessly, sending out a terrifying divine light that sped across the sky, sting toward Chen Fan.

    Both of them were supreme experts among the younger generation. The terrifying attacks they sent out in conjunction could shake the heavens, shatter the sun and the moon, and ughter immortals.

    Chen Fan slowed down under this terrifying pressure. He suddenly turned around and unleashed a punch. It shed with the Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master¡¯s terrifying attacks.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Deafening explosions resounded as if space had exploded.

    Terrifying storms immediately swept through heaven and earth. The center of the collision turned into primal chaos. Arge area of air had copsed.

    Although Chen Fan had shattered the two¡¯s attacks, he was pushed back repeatedly from the impact, and even his protective true primeval exploded violently.

 Chapter 656 - Fighting the Two Paragons

    <h4>Chapter 656 - Fighting the Two Paragons</h4>

    ¡°Bastard, hand over the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, and I¡¯ll spare your life!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord and Seventh Young Master closed in¡ªone in front and the other behind¡ªblocking Chen Fan''s escape.

    Their terrifying auras surged wildly, powerful and oppressive, making the air howl menacingly.

    ¡°Spare me? Chen Fan scoffed coldly. Killing intent swept out from him, making heaven and earth turn icy cold. ¡°You pathetic fools think you can threaten me?!¡±

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re asking to die!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master¡¯s expressions turned frosty. Cold killing intent erupted from them, sweeping across the sky, causing the minds of those who felt this killing intent to tremble.

    ¡°Fine, I wasn¡¯t nning to kill you, but since you¡¯re so eager for death, I¡¯ll oblige!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s aura instantly exploded, shaking the sky.

    Holding the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, he instantly became a god of ughter, making both the Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master flinch.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Chen Fan, I know you¡¯re strong. Alone, we can¡¯t defeat you. But now, you won¡¯t escape even if you grew a pair of wings!¡± said the Third Dragon Lord coldly, subtly admitting Chen Fan¡¯s strength.

    ¡°All this talk... You really think the two of you together can stop me? Ridiculous!¡±

    Killing intent instantly erupted from Chen Fan as he stabbed violently toward the Third Dragon Lord.

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡± shouted the Third Dragon Lord. Wielding the Flood Dragon Halberd, his muscles bulged. Terrifying strength rippled inside him.

    He also stabbed out with his halberd, tearing through space.

    The Seventh Young Master simultaneously reced his Mountain and River Fan with a spear. A terrifying spear light tore through the sky. It was as if the spear would skewer the entire world as it flew toward Chen Fan from the back.

    Chen Fan sensed a dangerous aura behind him. Three heads and six arms immediately appeared behind him. One of them held his iron spear, which he struck at the Seventh Young Master, making winds and clouds churn and the sky darken.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>ng, ng!</i>

    Chen Fan shed with the two in a sh; sparks flew everywhere.

    Despite being caught in a pincer attack, Chen Fan held his ground. In fact, his immense strength pushed the two backward, making their faces darken with frustration.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>.¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. He carried the Purgatory Divine Halberd and charged toward the Third Dragon Lord, unleashing a fearsome halberd light with a single swing. He rose to the sky and stabbed out violently, tearing through the air.

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s halberd art wasn¡¯t profound or based on an ancient legacy, his simple sweeps and thrusts contained far more power than the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s attacks.

    The months Chen Fan spent studying in the sect¡¯s library had paid off¡ªhe had mastered various weapons.

    As the saying went, ¡°Great Dao lies in simplicity.¡± Although Chen Fan hadn¡¯t reached the point where every move aligned with the Heavenly Dao, he was getting closer. Given his overwhelming strength, even his basic attacks were deadly.

    The terrifying halberd light collided fiercely with the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s Flood Dragon Halberd.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The terrifying pressure crushed the void, nearly breaking through even the primal chaos.

    A tidal wave of energy swept outward, surging in relentless waves.

    ¡°You damned bastard, go and die!¡±

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s face contorted with fury. A dragon''s roar erupted from within him as scales grew on his arm, his voice reverberating like a true dragon¡¯s, shaking the very air.

    A cold and piercing killing intent sshed out in all directions.

    Enormous auras covered the world, and like a tsunami, they crashed toward Chen Fan.

    The Third Dragon Lord was no longer holding back, determined to kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡± roared the Third Dragon Lord furiously, shattering the vacuum. He charged toward Chen Fan, a majestic aura sweeping over. It appeared as if a mountain was charging, looking scary.

    ¡°Break for me!¡± Chen Fan bellowed as if the cries of dragon-elephants echoed within him.

    Channeling the Hegemonic Golden Body, Chen Fan shone with a golden light. A terrifying, oppressive aura erupted, sweeping through everything like an ancient golden god.

    Chen Fan swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, releasing an aura that engulfed the heavens and earth.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The two forces collided like stars smashing into each other, instantly copsing a vast region of space.

    A dazzling light cut across the horizon, as if billions of light arrows shot out at once, tearing through the sky.

    Even the Seventh Young Master¡¯s expression darkened in the face of such a terrifying collision, pulling back some distance.

    As the terrifying energy storm ravaged, the entire microcosm shook violently.

    The ground split open, and mountain peaks crumbled, creating a scene of pure apocalypse.

    <i>Boom, rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a figure flew out of the mass of light¡ªit was the Third Dragon Lord.

    The dragon scales on his arm cracked and shattered from the impact. That invincible spirit around him was nowhere to be seen. His robes were tattered, his hair became disheveled, and he was spewing blood.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Unable to control himself, the Third Dragon Lord crashed into a mountain, shattering it on impact. Blood gushed from him uncontrobly.

    Those who had emerged from the Flood Dragon Grotto stared in disbelief, their jaws ck as they witnessed the scene,pletely shaken.

    Even Xiao Yan and the revered elder¡¯s eyes were flickering violently, shocked by Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength.

    However, before they could catch a breath, Chen Fan darted out from that terrifying copsed space and rushed straight toward the Third Dragon Lord.

    The primeval qi in heaven and earth were thoroughly in chaos. Like a ck flood dragon, Chen Fan¡¯s divine halberd pierced through the swirling qi, stabbing at the Third Dragon Lord.

    ¡°How dare you! Stop!¡± The Seventh Young Master, though eager to see the Third Dragon Lord die, realized they were now in the same boat. If Chen Fan killed him, the Seventh Young Master would stand no chance alone.

    He had no choice but to intervene.

    Terrifying spear light instantly broke through space, fiercely sting over terrifyingly.

    Facing the Seventh Young Master¡¯s powerful attack, Chen Fan had no choice but to give up on killing the Third Dragon Lord. He quickly turned around and swung his arm, drawing a shocking trajectory that shattered the oing spear light.

    ¡°Since you wish to save him, fine. I¡¯ll kill you first!¡±

    Chen Fan was like an invincible god of war. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he strode forth imposingly, emitting a very terrifying aura that pressed toward the Seventh Young Master.

    This aura was like an ancient divine mountain smashing over; the Seventh Young Master¡¯s expression changed constantly.

 Chapter 657 - No One Can Save

    <h4>Chapter 657 - No One Can Save</h4>

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll kill you first!¡±

    Chen Fan stepped forward as his voice fell, instantly arriving before the Seventh Young Master as if the space between them had shrunk to an inch.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd was like a weapon of death, zipping as fast as lightning toward the Seventh Young Master.

    A terrifying wave of killing intent washed over the Seventh Young Master, shaking his mind and filling him with sudden regret.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan was like a thunderbolt. The force from the Purgatory Divine Halberd aimed directly at the Seventh Young Master''s throat.

    The divine halberd zipped like a dragon, but as it neared, it began shrinking, bing like a needle, condensing the surrounding heaven and earth into a single point.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>! You want to kill me? You¡¯re not qualified!¡± roared the Seventh Young Master angrily. His aura exploded wildly, sending out waves of qi in all directions.

    He was a young master of the Great Qin Empire¡¯s Heaven Supervisory Bureau, an apex genius of the nation. How could he allow his mind to be affected by Chen Fan¡¯s killing intent?

    Shame!

    Utter shame!

    His spear surged forth like a dragon or a towering sky pir, crashing against Chen Fan''s Purgatory Divine Halberd with neither side willing to yield.

    But real strength wasn¡¯t something mere shouts could ovee.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s clothing fluttered noisily, pushed back by the wind. The immense force spread out in waves, but it wasn¡¯t enough to move him even an inch.

    Meanwhile, the Seventh Young Master spat out a mouthful of blood. The impact tore his clothes apart as he was sent flying, causing a series of explosions in the air.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes turned iparably cold. He stepped forward, following up on his attack, intent on killing the Seventh Young Master right then and there.

    ¡°Bastard, die!¡±

    Behind him, the angry roar of the Third Dragon Lord rang out.

    His Flood Dragon Halberd turned into a ferocious flood dragon, lunging at Chen Fan, ready to tear him apart.

    The Third Dragon Lord felt the same desperation as the Seventh Young Master earlier.

    Although he wanted the Seventh Young Master to die, he knew that if thetter fell, he would have no chance of defeating Chen Fan on his own.

    He couldn''t let Chen Fan kill the Seventh Young Master.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly, stopping his pursuit.

    Veins bulged on his hand as he gathered all of his terrifying strength. He hurled the Purgatory Divine Halberd with overwhelming force.

    ¡°No one can save the people I set my mind to kill!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd was like a vicious evil dragon, tearing through space and ripping the air to pieces. Thunderps shook along the way. Heaven and earth trembled. Wrapped in iparably terrifying force, the halberd shot toward the Seventh Young Master.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body had already reached level three, granting him immense strength.

    One could only imagine the terrifying power of the halberd, thrown with such force.

    Afterunching the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan turned and followed up with a devastating punch.

    His punch moved unpredictably, tracing a profound trajectory before mming into the iing Flood Dragon Halberd. The impact caused the surrounding air to explode in rapid session.

    <i>Thump, thump!</i>

    The Third Dragon Lord shook violently. The immense force from the halberd felt like a flood or ferocious beast rushing through him, churning wildly. Despite his efforts to resist, he was repeatedly forced backward.

    Chen Fan stepped forward, his aura soared, bursting with fighting spirit.

    His pair of iron fists was the sharpest weapon in the world. No other weapon couldpare to his fists.

    For his fists were the divine and the damned.

    Wherever his fists went, they were unstoppable. The terror of the Hegemonic Golden Body erupted, ravaging everything in its path.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Even though the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s Flood Dragon Halberd was an exceptional quality Grade-5 treasure, it couldn¡¯t hurt Chen Fan in the slightest.

    Chen Fan¡¯s relentless strikes followed. The Undefeated King¡¯s Fist was overpowering, carrying an aura of invincibility.

    His punchesnded on the Flood Dragon Halberd like ancient divine mountains mming into it, sending sparks flying everywhere.

    Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength erupted. The impact caused the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s protective true primeval to explode repeatedly, knocking him back and forcing blood from his mouth with each strike.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Sounds of gasps filled the air.

    The crowd watched in awe as Chen Fan fought two apex geniuses at once, cornering both the Third Dragon Lord and the Seventh Young Master. Both were coughing up blood, struggling to hold their ground.

    The nearby crowd murmured among themselves, shaken to the core.

    ¡°Terrifying, too terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s physique is simply out of this world. Even an exceptional quality Grade-5 treasure can¡¯t hurt him. My goodness!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s simply a humanoid weapon, a fighting machine!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    <i>Bang!</i>

    A terrifying fist forcended on the Third Dragon Lord ruthlessly, causing his protective true primeval to fall apart and sending him flying back again.

    The Seventh Young Master let out an angry roar that shook heaven and earth.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡±

    He looked incredibly fierce, gripping the Purgatory Divine Halberd tightly. Veins bulged on his hands, which were bloodied and wounded, but he dared not release his hold.

    He knew that once he loosened his grip, the Purgatory Divine Halberd would pierce his head, destroying him and his divine soul.

    Chen Fan¡¯s halberd throw was too terrifying.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Seventh Young Master was pushed back repeatedly by the force contained in the Purgatory Divine Halberd, roaring furiously.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan spun around at breakneck speed. The Wings of Rain Dragon spread from his back, creating hurricanes that propelled him forward. He appeared directly in front of the Seventh Young Master.

    The Seventh Young Master, still desperately holding onto the Purgatory Divine Halberd, looked to be in despair.

    He was already struggling to counter the halberd¡¯s power. With Chen Fan now before him, how could he possibly resist?

    Could the Third Dragon Lord make it in time to aid him?

    ¡°I said I¡¯ll kill you first. You¡¯ll definitely die before him. And if I want to kill you, no one can save you!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s hand gripped the Purgatory Divine Halberd with immense force.

    <i>Puchi.</i>

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd instantly broke through eachyer of defense and prated the Seventh Young Master¡¯s head with ease, nailing his divine nascent to the tip of the halberd. The power of purgatory erupted, destroying the Seventh Young Master¡¯s divine nascent.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    With a loud bang, the Purgatory Divine Halberd pierced the ground, pinning the Seventh Young Master. Fresh blood spurted out wildly.

    This attack had shattered the Seventh Young Master¡¯s divine nascent, killing him.

    Heaven and earth fell silent. A slight breeze blew, sending chills into the crowd, as if it was midwinter.

    Everyone¡¯s minds were trembling violently.

    No one had expected the young master of the Great Qin Empire¡¯s Heaven Supervisory Bureau, who roamed the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm unfettered, to die like this.

 Chapter 658 - Slaying the Third Dragon Lord

    <h4>Chapter 658 - ying the Third Dragon Lord</h4>

    The world went silent.

    The Seventh Young Master had fallen in battle, nailed to the ground by Chen Fan. Not even his divine nascent could escape. He couldn¡¯t even scream before the reaper took him.

    Everyone¡¯s minds shook violently, and their eyeballs trembled fiercely.

    ¡°Dead... He¡¯s dead...¡± someone muttered in disbelief after a brief, stunned silence.

    That was the young master of the Great Qin Empire¡¯s Heaven Supervisory Bureau, an absolute genius on par with the Third Dragon Lord. A man destined for greatness, cut down effortlessly by Chen Fan.

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s heart also trembled violently when he saw Chen Fan kill the Seventh Young Master.

    He died just like that.

    Although he and the Seventh Young Master were arch enemies, with thetter dead, he would now have to face Chen Fan by himself.

    Could he withstand it?

    Chen Fan¡¯s face remained calm and unmoved as if the death of such a powerful figure was an expected, trivial matter.

    Grabbing at the void, the Purgatory Divine Halberd fell into Chen Fan¡¯s hand. He slowly turned around and looked at the Third Dragon Lord.

    It was the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s turn now.

    Their enmity had been brewing long before the opening of the microcosm, and now it was beyond reconciliation.

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s face twisted with fear and desperation. ncing toward Xiao Yan and the revered elder, he roared, ¡°Are you going to stand by and watch? Don¡¯t you want the heaven-tier martial art?¡±

    The surrounding crowd''s eyes gleamed with interest.

    <i>Heaven-tier martial art?</i>

    <i>Chen Fan actually has a heaven-tier martial art in his possession!</i>

    Xiao Yan and the revered elder¡¯s expressions changed slightly.

    <i>Should I step in?</i>

    Reason told them that Chen Fan was no match for all three of them together, regardless of his strength. However, how sure were they of that reasoning?

    Between the two of them, the revered elder only had one arm, and Chen Fan had devoured Xiao Yan¡¯s sea of mes. Although it was not a small loss by any means, Xiao Yan¡¯s constitution was not damaged.

    If he stepped in, could he deal with Chen Fan?

    And what if he failed? He would have thoroughly offended Chen Fan.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Ignoring them, Chen Fan sprang into motion, charging the Third Dragon Lord.

    ¡°Third Dragon Lord, we still haven¡¯t decided the victor of ourst fight. Let¡¯s decide now!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s icy voice resounded as he stabbed out violently with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s heart sank when he saw that Xiao Yan and the revered elder weren¡¯t intervening despite theplicated expressions on their faces.

    If he failed to bring in any allies, he would simply have no way of resisting Chen Fan alone, and the result would be simple and obvious: death.

    Heaven and earth trembled under this attack.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The Third Dragon Lord had no time to think about anything else. His aura instantly erupted, seemingly hiding the sky and engulfing space.

    This was a life-and-death battle, and there was no room for hesitation. Only one of them could leave this battlefield alive.

    The Flood Dragon Halberd swept out, blocking Chen Fan¡¯s thrust.

    However, the terrifying force transferred over and sent him flying. The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s qi and blood tumbled, and the metallic taste of blood lingered in his mouth.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength was too terrifying.

    Although the Third Dragon Lord possessed a true dragon¡¯s bloodline, enhancing his strength and physique to levels most could only dream of, it meant nothing against Chen Fan.

    The power gap between them was simply too vast. The realization shook him to his core.

    Gritting his teeth in desperation, the Third Dragon Lord knew this was it¡ªthere would be no retreat. His only chance of survival was to give everything he had.

    ¡°Chen Fan, go to hell!¡±

    He squeezed out those words from his tightly gritted teeth. Steadying himself, he charged toward Chen Fan, aiming to seize the initiative.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With a casual upward swing, Chen Fan broke apart the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s attack. Without pause, he followed with a punch from his left hand, the force of which resembled a raging flood dragon, tearing through the air as it barreled toward the Third Dragon Lord.

    The Third Dragon Lord¡¯s left hand turned into a dragon w and shattered the punch.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    An overwhelming storm swept out, shattering the vacuum everywhere it passed.

    But Chen Fan was relentless. His aura swelled once more, pushing his terrifying strength to its peak. Each strike was faster, more powerful, andpletely devastating.

    The webbing on the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s hands tore open. Fresh blood spattered, covering his Flood Dragon Halberd.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    ¡°Dragon lord? Are you worthy of that title? Today, I''ll tear that name from your very soul!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s voice was cold, carrying an unshakable will as his aura grew even more overwhelming. The Purgatory Divine Halberd shed down violently once more.

    The space shattered, the air cracked. Explosions rang out non-stop.

    The Third Dragon Lord raised his halberd to defend himself. His hair was in disarray, his aura ring madly as he too entered a berserk state. There was no turning back now; it was a fight for survival.

    There was no way back for him. He needed to do everything he could to survive.

    ¡°You damned bastard, I¡¯ll kill you! I must kill you! Go to hell!¡± The Third Dragon Lord seemed to have ignited the power of his bloodline. His aura instantly soared. A terrifying pressure erupted, covering heaven and earth. It was like several mountains were pressing down on Chen Fan, slowing him down as if he was shackled.

    The Third Dragon Lord''s icy halberd glowed with a deadly light, illuminating the sky as killing intent rippled out, nketing Chen Fan.

    The Flood Dragon Halberd cleaved through the air, its attack seeming unstoppable¡ªlike it could sever the heavens, slice through the flow of time, and bury Chen Fan in the endless river of time and space.

    Chen Fan felt the weight of the pressure, but his resolve never wavered. Without hesitation, he met the attack head-on with his Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    The two halberds collided in a titanic sh of power.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    This time, both the Third Dragon Lord and Chen Fan had used their full strength, resulting in a shockwave that far surpassed any previous exchange. Blood burst from their hands as the webbing between their fingers tore under the strain of their halberds.

    The crowd¡¯s eyelids kept twitching as they watched from afar. Both parties were obviously much more terrifying than before.

    Several more terrifying collisions happened, likeets crashing into the moon.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The entire battlefield was plunged into utter chaos. Violent storms of energy rampaged across the shattered earth, splitting mountains and tearing open the ground.

    Everyone was stunned by the sight. They could not imagine that this was an exchange between two Divine Nascent realm martial artists.

    ¡°Third Dragon Lord, you must die!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s aura soared wildly. His physique, nigh indestructible, was built for this kind of savage confrontation where raw force met force.

    More terrifying collisions happened. Under this kind of intense sh, even the Third Dragon Lord could no longer endure despite igniting the power of his bloodline. His aura declined steeply.

    An icy voice descended from the sky.

    ¡°Die!¡± A halberd light that split heaven and earth apart broke through the sky, sweeping down with endless power.

    The Third Dragon Lord was instantly filled with despair. It was as if he was scared silly under this terrifying aura.

    The Third Dragon Lord was struck with unimaginable force. His body exploded in a shower of flesh and blood, almostpletely obliterated. Like a cannonball, he plummeted to the ground, crashing with such force that the earth trembled violently beneath him.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    A sharp whistling sound pierced the air. A Heaven Piercing Spear shot out like a lightning bolt, aiming directly at the fallen Third Dragon Lord. It struck him without mercy, annihting any remnants of his existence.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The Third Dragon Lord perished.

 Chapter 659 - Sixth-Level Divine Nascent

    <h4>Chapter 659 - Sixth-Level Divine Nascent</h4>

    Following the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s death, heaven and earth fell silent again.

    No one present had expected this battle to end with the deaths of the two apex geniuses.

    The crowd¡¯s gazesnded on Chen Fan, who stood like a god-king,manding deep admiration and fear.

    Terrifying!

    Too terrifying!

    The Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord were both hailed as top geniuses of the eastern continent. After joining the True Martial Academy, they would be dragons in the sea, with the world at their feet. They were destined to be some of the most powerful figures in the future.

    But now, Chen Fan had killed them both.

    Everyone was deeply shaken.

    Could someone really achieve this at the fourth level of the Divine Nascent realm?

    Xiao Yan and the revered elder¡¯s eyes also flickered unsteadily.

    The Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord were killed just like that?

    They had nned to take advantage of the situation when both sides were weakened, but now, even though Chen Fan was heavily injured, neither of them dared to act recklessly.

    Chen Fan had truly shaken them with this battle. He scanned the surroundings, then turned into a streak of light and disappeared into the horizon.

    No one dared to chase after him. They could only watch as Chen Fan left in a sh.

    There might be a heaven-tier martial art at stake, but staying alive to enjoy it came first.

    As the crowd murmured among themselves, they began leaving in small groups, preparing to exit the microcosm.

    ¡°He¡¯s gone...¡±

    ¡°I could only rx once he left.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s too terrifying. Is he really just at the fourth-level Divine Nascent realm?¡±

    ¡°This is going to set off a bloody storm on the Ancient Trial Road. With the fall of the Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord, and the rumor of a heaven-tier martial art, who knows how many will try to im it.¡±

    ¡°People like us can forget about it. Didn¡¯t you see that even heavenly geniuses like the Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord died? Getting involved would just be throwing our lives away.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. It¡¯s time to leave.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    By now, they had explored most of the microcosm.

    The ruins, treasures, and legacies that were going to show up had already appeared. Staying any longer had no purpose.

    ......

    Chen Fan, Qiu Yuexin, and Xiao Zhen were in a valley.

    ¡°How are you feeling, Chen Fan?¡± Xiao Zhen asked.

    The two of them had watched Chen Fan¡¯s battle from afar and were also shocked by his terrifying strength. It was simply unbelievable.

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then.¡± Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin sighed in relief.

    Xiao Zhen said, ¡°You¡¯re really a freak. Even the Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord couldn¡¯t defeat you.¡±

    Chen Fan smiled bitterly and said, ¡°After ughtering them, I¡¯m sure a mountain of trouble is headed my way. What a headache.¡±

    He understood the situation all too well.

    There was no way he could keep the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture a secret. On top of that, he had killed two powerful figures, both backed by influential forces. Word had likely already spread, and those forces were probably on their way.

    They wouldn¡¯t let him off easily.

    A desperate battle awaited him in the future.

    Still, Chen Fan was not afraid at all.

    He would just face the problems as theye. Worrying about it now served no purpose.

    Chen Fan sorted through the spoils from this venture.

    By ying both the Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord¡ªapex geniuses with deep resources¡ªhe not only eliminated two enemies but also imed their harvests from the microcosm. All of that now belonged to him.

    ¡°Phew, I¡¯m nning to make a breakthrough next. What about you two?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    Xiao Zhen smiled and said, ¡°We¡¯re doing the same. With our low cultivation, we¡¯re hardly any help to you¡ªif anything, we should just be grateful we¡¯re not slowing you down. We also made great gains this time. We¡¯ll just break through with you.¡±

    Thus, the trio began their seclusion.

    Days passed.

    By now, nearly everyone had already left the microcosm. It seemed that Chen Fan¡¯s group was the only one still inside.

    Meanwhile, word of what happened in the microcosm had spread outside, causing an uproar.

    Whether it was the death of the Seven Fiends Organization¡¯s fifth fiend, or the death of the Seventh Young Master and the Third Dragon Lord, both incidents set off a shocking wave on the Ancient Trial Road.

    That was because each of them was supported by a very powerful organization.

    The three of them were top geniuses of three different major forces, and Chen Fan was the person responsible for it. Would they just let it go?

    Absolutely not!

    Moreover, following the news of Chen Fan obtaining the heaven-tier martial art, Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, spreading, it immediately brought about a storm.

    It wasn¡¯t only these powerful organizations. Some other powerful figures also set their eyes on Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t know the specifics of what was happening outside, but he could easily guess.

    However, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t concerned about any of that. There was only one path ahead¡ªhe had to raise his cultivation and grow stronger.

    Only by bing strong enough could he confidently face the challengesing his way.

    In this cruel world, strength was all that mattered.

    Powerful bursts of energy continued to erupt from Chen Fan.

    <i>Buzz, buzz.</i>

    With his deep umtion and the many treasures he had obtained, breaking through posed no difficulty.

    A monthter, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation rose by two small realms, reaching the sixth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    However, Chen Fan did not stop there. He took out the flood dragon blood essence he had obtained and began absorbing its power, raising the level of his Hegemonic Golden Body.

    He needed to improve in all areas to make his strength skyrocket.

    Simply advancing by a small realm or two wasn¡¯t enough for the crises ahead.

    Moreover, he was not in a hurry.

    Now, it was the Dragon God Army and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau that needed to worry.

    Time continued to pass, minute by minute, second by second.

    Progressing in the Hegemonic Golden Body was at least twice as difficult as advancing in cultivation.

    Two whole months passed. Chen Fan had fully absorbed the essence of the flood dragon blood essence, advancing his Hegemonic Golden Body to the fifth level.

    A terrifying aura radiated from Chen Fan, so powerful it could make even seventh- or eighth-level Divine Nascent realm experts tremble, and the very sky seemed to fluctuate in response to his strength.

    ¡°Excellent. With my current strength, I won¡¯t have to fear even an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm expert.¡±

    A sharp luster shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he exhaled.

    After three months of secluded cultivation, his strength had gone up by another level.

    Sensing the terrifying strength surging inside him, Chen Fan felt satisfied.

    Only now did he feel that he was strong enough to protect himself. Still, this was far from enough.

    Nevertheless, this was the best he could do currently.

    Now, he needed a massive amount of cultivation resources, as he had expended his gains from the microcosm in thest three months. His cultivation had a voracious appetite for resources.

 Chapter 660 - Surrounded

    <h4>Chapter 660 - Surrounded</h4>

    The pressure emanating from Chen Fan dissipated. Calm returned to heaven and earth.

    Chen Fan looked at Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin and said, "I¡¯m nning to leave soon. You two should stay here for another ten days before exiting."

    ¡°What?¡± Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin were shocked and said, ¡°We¡¯ve already reached the fifth-level Divine Nascent realm and are close to the sixth. We could offer some help if we go with you.¡±

    They weren¡¯t foolish¡ªboth knew what awaited outside.

    Chen Fan shook his head and said, ¡°Your current strength is not enough. I¡¯ll likely face opponents at the seventh or eighth-level Divine Nascent realm. You won¡¯t be able to help me much if youe along. No more arguments. I¡¯ve made my decision.¡±

    Although Xiao Zhen and Qiu Yuexin¡¯s strengths had improved drasticallypared to when they had just entered the microcosm, it was still not at a level where they could offer help.

    Chen Fan understood that well.

    If they left with him, not only would they be unable to provide support, but they would also be a liability.

    If he left alone, he wouldn¡¯t have to worry about protecting anyone and could escape more easily if necessary.

    Chen Fan handed them each a Sky Dragon Token taken from the Third Dragon Lord. It would allow them to leave whenever they wanted.

    ¡°No need to worry about me. I¡¯ll see you both at the True Martial Academy.¡± Chen Fan immediately opened a portal and left the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm.

    ¡°Chen Fan, it¡¯s Chen Fan!¡±

    As soon as he appeared outside, the scouts from various major forces, hiding, recognized him.

    Chen Fan¡¯s portrait had already spread across all the major forces. A heaven-tier martial art was enough to drive any faction into madness.

    Stories of Chen Fan¡¯s actions, along with his acquisition of the heaven-tier technique, had already reached the ears of these powerful forces and spread along the Ancient Trial Road. Now, every eye was fixed on him.

    ¡°It¡¯s indeed him. Quickly send a report. This little bastard is dead for sure today!¡± said a Dragon God Army scout in a hurry.

    Killing the Third Dragon Lord of the Dragon God Army was akin to signing your own death warrant¡ªit was madness.

    ¡°Chen Fan is really a fool. Unless he hides for the rest of his life, there is no escaping from us. Does he really believe being absent for three months would protect him? Ridiculous!¡± said a Dragon God Army member coldly.

    ¡°He¡¯s out, that little bastard is out. Quickly notify the Fifth Young Master and the Sixth Young Master,¡± barked a Heaven Supervisory Bureau scout,unching a talisman toward the sky.

    Talisman after talisman darted across the sky, carrying urgent messages.

    After three months of silence, Chen Fan had reappeared.

    ¡°So many people have actually set their eyes on me. <i>Tsk tsk</i>, it seems a bloody battle is inevitable. Let¡¯s see whoes out to y.¡±

    As talismans zipped through the air, Chen Fan didn¡¯t bother stopping them. It was useless now. From the moment he left the microcosm, a bloody showdown was inevitable.

    The temptation of a heaven-tier martial art was the same as an elixir promising eternal life. Countless people would move at the news.

    All of this was within Chen Fan¡¯s expectations, so he wasn¡¯t surprised.

    An angry roar came from the sky.

    ¡°Chen Fan, meet your death!¡±

    Dozens of streaks of light immediately flew across the sky, seemingly wanting to tear the sky apart. A terrifying aura filled heaven and earth, suffocating the spectators.

    A formidable group of martial artists hovered in the air, their numbers in the dozens. Their auras erupted without restraint.

    The auras of the people leading the group could stir the primeval qi of heaven and earth with the simplest of movements. They were all terrifying experts in the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm.

    At the center of this gathering stood a man d in long, golden robes. He appeared to be in histe twenties, his god-like features exuding authority. His aura was the most terrifying of all, spreading across the skies like a storm.

    Chen Fan recognized him immediately¡ªthis had to be one of the Dragon Lords from the Dragon God Army, judging by his resemnce to the Third Dragon Lord.

    The Dragon God Army, founded by the three dragon lords, consisted of three brothers, each born with the bloodline of a true dragon.

    From the murmurs of the nearby crowd, Chen Fan learned that this golden-robed youth was the Second Dragon Lord.

    Behind the Second Dragon Lord stood an elite force with fierce auras. Each one had at least reached the third level of the Divine Nascent realm. These warriors were the chosen ones, the finest from their respective domains, leaders in their own right¡ªtrue kings among men.

    This underscored the true might of the Dragon God Army¡¯s foundations.

    Chen Fan looked over. The Dragon God Army¡¯s insignia could be seen on all these people.

    With so many experts here, it was clear the Dragon God Army had mobilized nearly all their forces within the Great Qin Empire to deal with Chen Fan.

    "They¡¯ve brought out the heavy hitters,¡± someone in the crowd murmured. ¡°The Dragon God Army¡¯s moving like this? They could wipe out every major power in ck me City with ease. They really want to wipe this Chen Fan off the face of the earth, don¡¯t they?"

    ¡°Can you me them? Chen Fan killed his brother. He¡¯s ignited the Dragon God Army''s wrath like never before. Their leaders are seething. It¡¯s actually surprising the First Dragon Lord himself didn¡¯te.¡±

    ¡°<i>Tsk tsk</i>, even if the First Dragon Lord didn¡¯te, with the Second Dragon Lord leading this group, they¡¯re more than enough to bury Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°My goodness, the Second Dragon Lord should be in the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm, right? I wonder how terrifying the First Dragon Lord¡¯s cultivation is?¡±

    The Second Dragon Lord looked at Chen Fan icily from above, his face cold and his gaze freezing, as if he was about to turn into a sharp sword and cut down Chen Fan.

    ¡°So, you are Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°My third brother died at your hands?¡± The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s voice grew darker, his tone dripping with malice. Though phrased as a question, he already knew the answer.

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± admitted Chen Fan, unbothered.

    After all, many had seen him kill the Third Dragon Lord, so denial was pointless.

    ¡°Very well. What guts you ate to make you dare kill my third brother!¡±

    The Second Dragon Lord emotionlessly looked at Chen Fan coldly as if he were looking at a corpse.

    ¡°Grow wings and run away. You might just survive then,¡± said the Second Dragon Lord, his tone seemingly magnanimous, though it dripped with indifference.

    The death of the Third Dragon Lord was a catastrophe of such magnitude that it shook the very foundations of the Dragon God Army.

    Had the First Dragon Lord not left the Great Qin Empire¡ªor perhaps the Gen Road entirely¡ªhe would have personallye to avenge his fallen brother.

    In his eyes, Chen Fan was already a dead man. His demise was inevitable; it was simply a matter of when.

    Suddenly, another voice bellowed from the skies, echoing through the heavens.

    ¡°Chen Fan, hand over the heaven-tier martial art and submit to the Heaven Supervisory Bureau. We can guarantee your life!¡±

    Another wave of light surged across the sky as a second group of martial artists appeared, their fierce auras rippling through the air.

    Their identity was unmistakable: the Heaven Supervisory Bureau.

    Dozens of them descended, d in their signature uniforms, their presence nearly as overwhelming as the Dragon God Army.

    Leading them were several sixth- and seventh-level Divine Nascent realm experts, their eyes sharp with killing intent.

    But the true monsters were the two figures standing at the forefront¡ªeach emanating the unmistakable, suffocating aura of the early eighth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Although it wasn¡¯tparable to the Second Dragon Lord, their might was nothing to scoff at.

    These two were the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Sixth Young Master and Fifth Young Master.

    The fact that both of them were dispatched showed just how much importance the Heaven Supervisory Bureau ced on Chen Fan.

    ¡°Chen Fan, hand over everything you¡¯ve obtained in the ruins and submit to our Heaven Supervisory Bureau, and you shall get to live,¡± repeated the Sixth Young Master coldly.

    Chen Fan waspletely trapped like a turtle in a jar.

    ¡°Heavens, I didn¡¯t expect the Heaven Supervisory Bureau to dispatch them. They¡¯re both in the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm. Their cultivation isn¡¯t stable because they advanced recently, but they are still so terrifying.¡±

    ¡°The Heaven Supervisory Bureau has also sent so many people here. Could it be that the Sixth Young Master and the Fifth Young Master pulled all the core members of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau in ck me City and the nearby cities here?¡±

    ¡°The forces of the Dragon God Army and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau. <i>Tsk tsk</i>, I¡¯m afraid Chen Fan is really in deep trouble this time.¡±

 Chapter 661 - Crushed

    <h4>Chapter 661 - Crushed</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan, you will die today. But first, I will make you beg for the sweet release of death!¡±

    The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s voice was a harsh snarl, his face contorted with rage and bitterness. The news of the Third Dragon Lord¡¯s death had been a crushing blow to him.

    He wanted nothing more than to grind Chen Fan¡¯s bones to ash and kill him.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, with just you people? A whole bunch of idiots want me dead. Get in line!¡± said Chen Fan with a cold smile.

    The animosity between the two parties was unmistakable; there was no turning back.

    ¡°Chen Fan, as long as you hand over everything you have gained in the microcosm and submit to our Heaven Supervisory Bureau to serve us, we can guarantee your safety. The Dragon God Army won¡¯t be able to touch you!¡± said the Sixth Young Master indifferently.

    Chen Fan looked at the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s side contemptuously and said, ¡°And who do you think you are? Serve the Heaven Supervisory Bureau? What a joke! You¡¯re nothing!¡±

    The Sixth Young Master¡¯s anger red at the insult. ¡°You¡¯re asking for death!¡±

    Chen Fan insulting the Heaven Supervisory Bureau was akin to insulting them. How could he take that lying down?

    With a swift motion, heunched a spear light that cleaved through the air, intent on killing Chen Fan.

    Nearby scouts, witnessing the Sixth Young Master¡¯s abrupt and aggressive move, gasped in astonishment.

    Although he had recently advanced to the eighth level, his position as a young master in the Heaven Supervisory Bureau spoke volumes about his extraordinary prowess and talent, ranking him among the elite of the Great Qin Empire.

    His attack was so mighty that the onlookers couldn¡¯t help but feel uneasy.

    Even an opponent of equal cultivation might struggle to withstand such a devastating attack. For Chen Fan, this was bound to be a life-threatening ordeal.

    Chen Fan let out a cold snort, and the Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in his grasp. With a swing, he unleashed a terrifying halberd light, aiming to intercept the deadly spear qi.

    When their attacks met, the impact was catastrophic.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The space at the center of the collision disintegrated, turning into primal chaos. It generated a storm of destructive force. Winds howled and waves of energy crashed together in a ferocious disy of power.

    A fierce look shot out from the Sixth Young Master¡¯s eyes as he stepped across the sky, suppressing the storm. He arrived in front of Chen Fan in a sh. His spear radiated a chilling aura, and the cold, unrelenting killing intent he emitted was palpable.

    ¡°You had a chance to survive, but you chose the path of death,¡± the Sixth Young Master said with a frigid tone. ¡°Now, I¡¯ll grant your wish.¡±

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The space shattered, and the air currents reversed their course.

    It was as if the spear pierced through theyers of space-time and had locked onto Chen Fan¡¯s soul. Even if he fled to the ends of the world, the spear would kill him.

    Sensing the killing intent, the nearby scouts from various forces could not help but pull back repeatedly.

    This killing intent was too terrifying. They were only scouts, so they weren¡¯t all that powerful. Under this killing intent, they felt like their blood was about to freeze, and their lives were about to be harvested.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    The Sixth Young Master¡¯s vast aura was callous and aloof.

    As the Sixth Young Master of the Great Qin Empire¡¯s Heaven Supervisory Bureau, his status and strength were among the highest in the Great Qin Empire.

    Provoking him was akin to challenging the King of Hell.

    ¡°Die!¡± shouted the Sixth Young Master. His qi covered the universe and shattered the sky. His aura seemed to swallow heaven and earth, intensifying the pressure on Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan remained unfazed under the aura¡¯s terrifying oppression.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Had he not spent thest three months improving his strength, facing the Sixth Young Master would have been a dire challenge. However, now that he had advanced his cultivation and his Hegemonic Golden Body, the situation was different.

    The Sixth Young Master had only recently advanced to the eighth level, so his attempt to overpower Chen Fan seemedughable.

    Chen Fan¡¯s arm bulged as he swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, setting off a series of explosive shocks through the air.

    The sheer force of Chen Fan¡¯s sweep overwhelmed the Sixth Young Master, whose efforts to maintain his footing began to fail.

    As their weapons collided, an indescribable, terrifying strength surged through, wreaking havoc.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The Sixth Young Master¡¯s protective true primeval exploded violently. He was thrown backward, blood spewing from his mouth as he was sent reeling.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The surrounding crowd watched in stunned disbelief.

    None of them expected this oue. The visual impact was too great.

    The Sixth Young Master was no ordinary person. He was the Sixth Young Master of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, a peerless genius of the heavens, with eighth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation.

    ¡°A dog like you dares to bark in front of me. You¡¯re really asking to die. I¡¯ll send you straight to hell to join the Seventh Young Master!¡±

    Chen Fan chased after him with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, striding forth with imposing steps. His momentum was unparalleled and iparably domineering, as if he were a battle god reborn. No one could match him.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan shed down violently with his halberd, sending an iparably terrifying attack.

    Under this attack, even a hundred-thousand-tall mountain of iron would shatter to bits.

    The Sixth Young Master¡¯s demeanor shifted drastically. His face grew cold and savage as his aura surged wildly.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    He was the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Sixth Young Master, a peerless figure. How could he be defeated by a mere peasant like Chen Fan?

    The ripples of the explosion swept out, fragmenting the entire space.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The crowd was iparably shocked. What kind of attack could cause such a collision?

    A figure was hurled through the chaos¡ªnone other than the Sixth Young Master himself.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    When the dust settled, the Sixth Young Mastery in a pitiful state.

    The arrogance that had marked his entrance was nowhere to be seen. Instead, he was grimly injured, a deep gash running across his chest, blood streaming from the wound. None knew how many bones he still had intact.

    The crowd¡¯s irises shrunk slightly, not expecting the Sixth Young Master to be defeated, and so badly, to boot. It was unbelievable.

    Just how strong was Chen Fan?

    While the crowd was still in shock, Chen Fan¡¯s battle god-like figure blossomed with a golden luster, pressuring heaven and earth. His qi swallowed thends as he raised his Purgatory Divine Halberd and rushed toward the Sixth Young Master to kill him.

    ¡°How dare you! Stop!¡±

    The Fifth Young Master had been very confident in the Sixth Young Master, thinking he could easily take down Chen Fan. Unexpectedly, the result turned out to be such a p in the face.

    The Sixth Young Master wasn¡¯t just defeated, he was crushed miserably, falling into a dangerous situation. Chen Fan was about to cut him down. Thus, the Fifth Young Master had no choice but to step in.

    Although they were rivals in the Heaven Supervisory Bureau,peting to be the Bureau Chief, now they represented the Heaven Supervisory Bureau. He could not just stand by as Chen Fan killed the Sixth Young Master.

 Chapter 662 - Follow Up with Killing the Fifth Young Master

    <h4>Chapter 662 - Follow Up with Killing the Fifth Young Master</h4>

    Arge primeval qi hand materialized as the Fifth Young Master attacked. It flew toward Chen Fan like a thunderbolt.

    Both the Fifth and Sixth Young Masters were at the early stage of the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm, but the Fifth Young Master had already solidified his strength. Compared to his Sixth Young Master, he was much stronger.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, if I want him dead, you can¡¯t save him!¡± Chen Fan said coldly. He shifted his halberd, which had been aimed at the Sixth Young Master, toward the iing qi hand.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan unleashed a palm strike at the Sixth Young Master. It turned him into a mist of blood, leaving only his divine nascent behind that shrieked as it desperately tried to flee.

    But could a mere divine nascent escape from Chen Fan? Grabbing at the empty air, he captured the Sixth Young Master¡¯s divine nascent.

    By then, Chen Fan¡¯s halberd had already pierced the qi hand from the Fifth Young Master, making it vanish without a trace.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°Ahhh, Chen Fan, you sinful beast, how dare you! How dare you destroy my physical body! You¡¯re looking to die! Our Heaven Supervisory Bureau will never let you off. We¡¯ll hunt you down to the ends of the world!¡± shrieked the trembling divine nascent in terror.

    ¡°Audacious, Chen Fan. Quickly put down my sixth brother¡¯s divine nascent. Are you trying to make an enemy out of our Heaven Supervisory Bureau!¡± roared the Fifth Young Master angrily with a dark expression. He had moved to save the Sixth Young Master, yet he failed.

    ¡°Make an enemy out of your Heaven Supervisory Bureau? So what!¡±

    Chen Fan did not care about the threats from the Fifth Young Master and the Sixth Young Master.

    As his voice fell, a force erupted in his palm,nding on the Sixth Young Master¡¯s divine nascent, destroying and killing him.

    Everyone nearby felt their hearts tremble in fear.

    He was dead.

    The Sixth Young Master of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau had been killed right in front of countless witnesses.

    Countless gazesnded on Chen Fan, filled with horror.

    He had ended the Sixth Young Master¡¯s life without hesitation, showing no regard for the Heaven Supervisory Bureau.

    Even the Fifth Young Master stood frozen in shock. He hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to disregard his threats and kill the Sixth Young Master so ruthlessly, leaving nothing behind.

    An overwhelming rage erupted.

    The wind howled mournfully as a murderous aura erupted from the Fifth Young Master, engulfing the skies. The terrifying killing intent swept across the area like a storm.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The nearby crowd shrank their necks back when they felt this terrifying killing intent.

    ¡°Bastard, you son of a bitch! How dare you kill my brother, one of our Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s people! You deserve to die! You deserve to die a thousand times!" the Fifth Young Master bellowed, his voice shaking the heavens.

    Chen Fan said indifferently, ¡°So what if I killed him? It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t killed anyone before! And it won¡¯t be thest¡ªyou¡¯re next."

    ¡°Damn you!¡± The Fifth Young Master¡¯s face twisted intensely. A terrifying aura swept out, emitting overwhelming pressure, causing heaven and earth to change colors.

    No one dared to breathe out loud.

    The Heaven Supervisory Bureau was synonymous with death in the Great Qin Empire. Once they targeted someone, whether a high-ranking official or even a minister of the imperial pce, survival came at a steep cost¡ªescaping with their life meant at least losing ayer of skin.

    The Fifth Young Master roared, his bloodshot eyes zing with murderous intent. A gleaming saber materialized in his hand as he strode toward Chen Fan, its de scraping the ground with a menacing sound.

    His every step shattered the void and increased his aura. His murderous qi engulfed heaven and earth and swept toward Chen Fan, locking him down.

    The ground trembled beneath the weight of his pressure. Divine light burst from the Fifth Young Master as he moved through the sky.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The crowd looked on in horror, drenched in cold sweat. The Fifth Young Master hadn¡¯t even struck yet, but the suffocating pressure alone was enough to paralyze them with fear.

    The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s group at the side had also pulled back far away, their eyes glued to the unfolding battle.

    They weren¡¯t eager to intervene just yet. They knew Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t escape their clutches.

    Their n was simple: let Chen Fan and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau exhaust each other. When both sides were worn down, they would swoop in and finish Chen Fan off with minimal effort.

    ¡°You son of a bitch, die!¡± roared the Fifth Young Master, charging toward Chen Fan.

    Murderous qi swirled around him. His true primeval surged like the sea waves, sweeping and erupting constantly. It was extremely terrifying.

    In the face of the Fifth Young Master¡¯s terrifying aura, Chen Fan remained unfazed like a reef at the bottom of the sea.

    Their auras collided first, generating gales and moving the clouds.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Immediately afterward, both parties stepped forward, their auras rising to the clouds.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Their attacks shed with a deafening explosion, unleashing a violent storm that swept across the battlefield, leaving destion in its wake.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, a mere eighth-level Divine Nascent realm dares to act arrogant before me? Die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura red up, spreading fiercely, surpassing the Fifth Young Master¡¯s aura.

    Each of Chen Fan¡¯s movements was powerful as if he was suppressing the entire universe. The Fifth Young Master trembled under the force, the sound of his bones grinding together echoing in the air.

    Though stronger than the Sixth Young Master, the Fifth Young Master had his limits. And Chen Fan, who had effortlessly crushed the Sixth Young Master, was far beyond those limits.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    The Fifth Young Master spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood. His aura went into disarray, hisplexion paled, and his eyes trembled, flickering with a look of disbelief.

    He was the Fifth Young Master of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, a super genius, yet he was no match for Chen Fan.

    ¡°Is this for real? Even the Fifth Young Master was defeated. This is too terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, Chen Fan¡¯s strength is too terrifying. Will we watch two young masters fall today?¡±

    ¡°The seven young masters of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau are supposed to be unrivaled, destined to dominate their generation. Could it be we¡¯ll see two of them fall today? It¡¯s unimaginable!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone felt chills inside.

    The Fifth Young Master had risen to fame extremely early, his genius shaking the Great Qin Empire for over a decade. Until now, no one from his generation had managed to injure him. But today, he had been injured, and rather heavily as well.

    It wasn¡¯t the result of a scheme or ambush, but a direct sh, where the Fifth Young Master had been utterly defeated.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan spat out with an icy voice. A Heaven Piercing Spear tore through space and instantly shot toward the Fifth Young Master.

    The experts from the Heaven Supervisory Bureau quickly sprang into motion.

    They couldn¡¯t let Chen Fan kill another young master right before their eyes. Failing to stop him would spell certain death when they returned to the Bureau.

    A seventh-level Divine Nascent expert, the closest to the spear, lunged forward and attempted to seize it.

    A terrifying rubbing sound rang out.

    <i>C!</i>

    A horrifying sound filled the air as the expert¡¯s flesh vaporized instantly, his bones shattering from the sheer force. He crumbled as he spat blood, plummeting from the sky.

    But his sacrifice bought them a brief moment. Other experts quickly rushed to intercept the Heaven Piercing Spear.

    Yet, even with theirbined efforts, they were powerless against the terrifying force of the spear.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear sted a hole in all these experts and continued toward its target. And while it sounded like a long story, it all happened in a split second.

    Suddenly, the Second Dragon Lord roared angrily. He stepped in, wanting to save the Fifth Young Master.

    ¡°Stop!¡±

    He wasn''t acting out of kindness but out of self-preservation. He had realized just how dangerous Chen Fan was. If the Fifth Young Master died, they would be next. He had no choice but to intervene.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear broke through all obstacles in its path and arrived in front of the Fifth Young Master.

    The Fifth Young Master was helpless. His protective true primeval, which should have shielded him, crumbled like paper before the spear¡¯s overwhelming power.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    The devastating force exploded on impact, and the Fifth Young Master shattered like fragile porcin. His agonized scream echoed through the universe, a sound of pure misery.

    A hundred-thousand-foot-tall mountain shook violently. The Fifth Young Master was nailed to the mountain. His divine nascent was obliterated, leaving no trace of life behind.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

 Chapter 663 - Who Can Rival Him?

    <h4>Chapter 663 - Who Can Rival Him?</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Ultimately, the Second Dragon Lord couldn¡¯t make it in time.

    His attack, aimed at saving the Fifth Young Master, was effortlessly obliterated by Chen Fan with a single punch, scattering into nothingness. The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s expression sank deeply, realizing his failure.

    The death of the Fifth Young Master sent shockwaves through the crowd. Two young-master-ss figures of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, renowned for their might and status, had been annihted by Chen Fan in swift session.

    No one had expected the oue to be like this.

    The Dragon God Army and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau, two major forces, hade with great vigor, wanting to kill Chen Fan. However, Chen Fan killed the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Sixth Young Master and Fifth Young Master in no time. It wasn¡¯t even a fight¡ªit was a massacre.

    The experts apanying them fared no better, falling like fodder before his terrifying power.

    Stunning!

    Too stunning!

    Everyone looked at Chen Fan with dumbfounded gazes.

    No one could fathom how someone could wield such terrifying strength.

    He was only at the sixth-level Divine Nascent realm, yet he ughtered seventh and eighth-level experts as effortlessly as ughtering livestock.

    ¡°Dead, they¡¯re all dead!¡±

    ¡°This is simply piercing through the heavens.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid this is the biggest loss the Heaven Supervisory Bureau has ever suffered. In just three months, three of their young-master-ss figures have died, all at the hands of the same person. He¡¯spletely ignoring the Bureau¡¯s authority. Doesn¡¯t he fear their retaliation?"

    ¡°The Heaven Supervisory Bureau is indeed terrifying, but don¡¯t forget that the True Martial Academy¡¯s entrance trial is happening right now. Only those involved in the Ancient Trial Road can intervene. Others cannot make a move. No one else can act. If the Bureau''s Heavenly Star realm experts try to interfere, they''d be courting death!"

    ¡°Since the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s Heavenly Star realm experts can¡¯t take action, given the strength Chen Fan has disyed thus far, I¡¯m afraid even ninth-level Divine Nascent realm experts can¡¯t bring him down.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd''s faces were filled with mixed emotions.

    Chen Fan had shattered the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s attack with a punch. He looked over coldly and said indifferently, ¡°Now, it¡¯s your turn.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, don¡¯t you dare act arrogant!¡± shouted the Second Dragon Lord coldly.

    He had been confident before, certain he could easily defeat Chen Fan.

    However, after the deaths of the Sixth Young Master and the Fifth Young Master, his confidence had crumbled, reced by a deep sense of pressure.

    Chen Fan was too powerful.

    Although the young masters were only in the early stage of the eighth level, they were peerless figures. They were far from being weak.

    Yet, Chen Fan killed them effortlessly, in apletely one-sided battle, leaving the Second Dragon Lord deeply shaken.

    ¡°Arrogant? Hahaha!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, shaking the heavens. ¡°I¡¯m arrogant, so what? Dragon lord? Trash like you dares to im that title?"

    Chen Fan¡¯s scornful words made the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s aura erupt uncontrobly, sweeping heaven and earth. His power far surpassed that of the Fifth and Sixth Young Masters.

    The Second Dragon Lord had a callous look on his face, filled with overwhelming hatred. Killing intent swept out wildly as he stared at Chen Fan coldly and said, ¡°You damned bastard, going against our Dragon God Army will be the worst mistake of your life!"

    The Second Dragon Lord struck out as his voice fell. An iparably terrifying dragon w that covered the sky came smashing as if it wanted to destroy heaven and earth.

    The Dragon God Army experts behind him also struck out one after another.

    They were all elites, with many among them at the sixth and seventh-level Divine Nascent realm. Terrifying divine lights streaked across the sky, their power making the onlookers'' scalps tingle.

    A storm of deadly attacks surged toward Chen Fan, intent on obliterating him.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura erupted, rolling and surging. He wielded the Purgatory Divine Halberd with fluid precision, like he was dancing, sending out streaks of deadly light that cut through the air, shing with the terrifying attacks aimed at him.

    A series of explosions rang out, shaking heaven and earth.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    Everyone was stunned.

    Chen Fan showed no fear against the onught from the Dragon God Army. Instead, he advanced boldly, as if he intended to cut a path through their ranks.

    This scene was too shocking.

    ¡°Bastard, you will die today!¡±

    The Second Dragon Lord brandished the Sky Reaching Staff with a formidable aura, sweeping it through the air.

    Chen Fan was powerful enough to kill an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm, but facing so many Dragon God Army members at once made him seem outmatched, even if he had three heads and six arms.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan thrust his arm forward, sending the Second Dragon Lord flying back.

    Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming aura showed that he had unleashed his full strength.

    He charged through the Dragon God Army¡¯s attacks like a heavenly god, cutting his way into their midst.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan swept out with his halberd,unching an iparably fierce halberd light.

    Although the Dragon God Army members were skilled in their own right, they were weakpared to Chen Fan.

    In an instant, these people were chopped in half at the waist, screaming miserably.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Chen Fan manifested the Heaven Seizing Furnace and expanded it to the limit, swallowing those chopped-up members and refining them.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The vitality of Divine Nascent realm experts was incredibly tenacious. Since they could be reborn by possession as long as their divine nascent was unharmed, Chen Fan had no intention of giving them that chance.

    ¡°A bunch of losers calling yourselves dragon gods? You should all just die here today!¡±

    Chen Fan showed no mercy. Golden light surged around him, showcasing the full might of his Hegemonic Golden Body.

    He was like an invincible battle god, sweeping through his enemies fearlessly.

    The Dragon God Army members couldn¡¯t withstand the force of his halberd. With a single sweep, many of them were either killed or injured.

    Their corpses were drawn into the Heaven Seizing Furnace and converted into pure energy. A holy light burst forth, making Chen Fan''s golden aura even more resplendent and his power even more terrifying.

    The Second Dragon Lord watched as the Dragon God Army suffered heavy casualties in moments. It was simply like a ferocious tiger had charged into a flock of sheep and begun a massacre. He shook with anger, his seven orifices smoking.

    ¡°Ahhh, bastard, I¡¯ll tear you apart!¡±

    In just the brief time he was knocked back by Chen Fan¡¯s halberd, Chen Fan had killed about ten experts of the Dragon God Army and refined them, making their souls dissipate. The loss was devastating.

    The Second Dragon Lord was infuriated to the extreme.

    To see so many elite members of the Dragon God Army fall so quickly was a crushing blow.

    It wasn''t just a blow to morale; it also undermined the very foundation of the Dragon God Army.

 Chapter 664 - Fierce Battle with the Second Dragon Lord

    <h4>Chapter 664 - Fierce Battle with the Second Dragon Lord</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A massive divine staff shot through the void, reaching Chen Fan¡¯s back in an instant and striking with immense force.

    Chen Fan spun around and threw a punch, colliding with that huge divine staff.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The staff was sent reeling, causing a series of explosive sounds in the air.

    The Second Dragon Lord emerged from the explosions, struggling to maintain hisposure, blood trickling from the corners of his mouth.

    However, his gaze remained frigid, and his aura shook violently, appearing very terrifying. It stirred the surrounding primeval qi of heaven and earth, revealing his iparably immense strength.

    ¡°Bastard, you deserve to die. You deserve a thousand deaths!¡±

    The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes locked onto Chen Fan, brimming with killing intent, though his heart quaked with fear.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength had long since exceeded his imagination, so now he only had one recourse: he had to kill Chen Fan before he grew any stronger.

    ¡°Great Dragon Spits Pearl!¡±

    The Second Dragon Lord wielded his Sky Reaching Staff, which appeared as massive as a mountain but targeted Chen Fan with pinpoint precision, like a needle that could make the opponent explode with a prick.

    The staff seemed like a colossal pir, and it made Chen Fan seem almost insignificant. Chen Fan decided to exploit this size difference to the fullest.

    Chen Fan¡¯s clothing fluttered loudly, his fists moving unpredictably, striking the Sky Reaching Staff. All the qi that came into contact with his aura exploded, failing to prate his defenses.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Cracks began to form on the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s Sky Reaching Staff.

    As Chen Fan sted the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s Sky Reaching Staff away, a palm appeared silently, unnoticed by anyone. It radiated a noble, violet aura and flew toward Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Violet qi surged from the east, streaking across the sky as if the king of immortals had descended.

    A seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert had suddenly arrived, targeting Chen Fan with his powerful blow.

    ¡°Hegemonic Golden Body, Absolute Defense.¡±

    Chen Fan ignored the attack. He waved his hands, and a brilliant golden light enveloped him like a golden shield.

    The palm struck Chen Fan, but the force couldn¡¯t prate his defenses.

    Unbreakable by myriad methods!

    ¡°What? My Violet Emperor Nine Firmament Palm failed to do a thing to him?¡±

    This seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert, a high-ranking figure of the Dragon God Army, was second only to the three dragon lords. He had oncee across a huge fortuitous encounter that made him incredibly powerful.

    Yet, he was stunned as his violet qi failed to harm Chen Fan in any way.

    Chen Fan turned around fiercely, his icy voice rang out like the sentencing of a grim reaper.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡±

    He thrust his palm out, sending a massive golden hand crashing down. No matter how much the Dragon God Army expert roared or struggled, it was futile. The palm strike turned him into a mist of blood.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    For Chen Fan, killing a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm was very easy. Engaging him in closebat was simply courting death¡ªno one could match his physique.

    Moving swiftly, Chen Fan left behind a long afterimage as he ughtered Dragon God Army members with ease, as though he were chopping vegetables.

    The Dragon God Army waspletely powerless to resist and immediately crumbled.

    Before Chen Fan, all their pride and arrogance vanished as they cried for their parents.

    ¡°My god, this must be an illusion. This has to be an illusion!¡±

    The nearby crowd sucked in a breath of cold air as they watched Chen Fan jumping into the midst of the Dragon God Army members, killing them like a ferocious tiger among a herd of sheep.

    The Dragon God Army was the strongest force on the Gen Road.

    They had peerless prides of heaven like the Three Great Dragon Lords and even the army¡¯s general members were top geniuses of their respective domains.

    But now, these outstanding characters werepletely helpless in front of Chen Fan, unable to stop him at all.

    Dismembered limbs flew everywhere, and fresh blood fell like rain.

    The Dragon God Army hade aggressively; now, Chen Fan alone had decimated their ranks. They had given up, fleeing in terror while screaming in despair.

    ¡°Bastard, die, die, die!¡± The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s face contorted with rage as he attacked Chen Fan like a madman.

    He had already ignited the power of his bloodline. His aura became iparably berserk. Each of his attacks could smash the sky or cause the earth to shake violently.

    Chen Fan and the Second Dragon Lord shed fiercely, causing a vast area to crumble. Deafening explosions echoed like firecrackers.

    With the power of his bloodline ignited, the Second Dragon Lord''s strength surged dramatically. He fought like a berserk god, pushing Chen Fan back and making him spit blood repeatedly.

    Although Chen Fan was iparably powerful, he was not invincible.

    As the Second Dragon Lord''s strength approached the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, Chen Fan struggled to keep up.

    Although Chen Fan was suppressed by the Second Dragon Lord, he showed no signs of defeat.

    His aura was simrly iparably berserk. He faced the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s relentless attacks head-on, causing mountains to crumble, the earth to crack, and rivers to run dry.

    <i>I can¡¯t keep wasting time like this. The longer this drags on, the more disadvantageous it is for me!</i> Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered.

    He had killed the Fifth Young Master and the Sixth Young Master. The Heaven Supervisory Bureau would definitely send more experts over.

    An army of ants could bite an elephant to death.

    Even though he was strong and could fight most people one-on-one, he would struggle against the overwhelming numbers. It wasn¡¯t like his opponents would care about morality and such pointless philosophies.

    If more people from the Heaven Supervisory Bureau came, or the experts from other forces arrived, Chen Fan would be trapped with no way out.

    His gaze grew colder and more determined. He had to defeat the Second Dragon Lord quickly, or the consequences would be dire if he was bogged down.

    Chen Fan ignored the other Dragon God Army members entirely.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    He instantly released a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi. It was iparably terrifying, tearing through space and destroying the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s attacks.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>! Break for me!¡± The Second Dragon Lord also sensed an intense aura of danger. This Green Lotus Sword Qi was incredibly powerful, an attack from a heaven-tier martial art.

    The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s aura boiled over, wanting to resist this attack. He sent out several streaks of terrifying divine light.

    But the Green Lotus Sword Qi was Chen Fan¡¯s ultimate weapon, the most powerful move in his arsenal. It was not easily resisted.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    This attack tore through everything andnded on the Second Dragon Lord, sending him flying. He was nearly disemboweled, and his fresh blood spilled from the sky.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan pressed his advantage and closed in with lightning speed. With the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, he struck decisively.

    The Second Dragon Lord¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    He felt a strong aura of death. Chen Fan was like the incarnation of the Grim Reaper, walking toward him to harvest his life.

 Chapter 665 - Bloody Battle

    <h4>Chapter 665 - Bloody Battle</h4>

    Chen Fan thrust his halberd with a simple motion, like ayman jabbing a spear. The attack seemed weak, but it made the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s heart skip a beat.

    He felt trapped, as if every escape route had been sealed off. There was no way out, and if he couldn''t withstand this strike, death was certain.

    But the Second Dragon Lord wasn¡¯t about to just sit and wait for his death. If he were this weak, how could he have be the Second Dragon Lord and led the Dragon God Army?

    This was far too much of an underestimation!

    He showed no sign of panic even in this dire situation. His eyes remained cold.

    The halberd, though it seemed slow, was incredibly fast, reaching him in an instant. The wind from the strike blew through his hair, tangling it.

    The Second Dragon Lord responded without hesitation.

    To put it another way, he had never underestimated Chen Fan¡¯s attack. As soon as Chen Fan moved, he struck back, meeting the attack with his Sky Reaching Staff.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    A massive explosion echoed like the universe itself was tearing apart.

    What seemed like a simple sh was, in reality, overwhelmingly terrifying.

    A violent storm of destruction tore through thend, instantly turning the ground beneath them into ruin.

    The nearby crowd felt their hearts jumping.

    If they were in the middle of this storm, they would have likely been annihted.

    <i>Poof!</i>

    Fresh blood spattered from the two.

    Their attacks collided fiercely, tearing into each other¡¯s flesh.

    Even with Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body, the pressure at such close range tore his muscles and shattered his bones.

    However, the Second Dragon Lord was far worse off.

    Green Lotus Sword Qi had nearly disemboweled him earlier. Now, the halberd attack only aggravated his injury. His physique was nowhere near Chen Fan''s, so the damage he took from the same amount of power was much greater.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan did not care about his injuries at all and roared angrily. His aura was like the ocean, crashing forth overwhelmingly.

    The Second Dragon Lord was already out of ideas. He could only fight Chen Fan to the end.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Blood drenched the Second Dragon Lord as nearly half his body ruptured. His left hand, raised in defense, waspletely shattered.

    The Second Dragon Lord had ignited the power of his bloodline to strengthen himself, bringing hisbat strength to a peak to fight Chen Fan to the end. The battle between the two was too tragic.

    Though the Second Dragon Lord was on the verge of copse, Chen Fan wasn¡¯t unscathed either.

    The relentless shes had left Chen Fan covered in wounds, his muscles torn, his bones broken, and blood gushing from everywhere.

    Both parties werepletely covered in wounds.

    The Second Dragon Lord had lost a biological brother and loathed Chen Fan for it, while Chen Fan was in a hurry to get away, even if he had to exchange injury for injury.

    Chen Fan¡¯s freakish recovery speed was on full disy now. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he charged toward the Second Dragon Lord once more.

    Although the Second Dragon Lord¡¯s body was about to be broken down from the beating, he still showed unrivaled ferocity. With infinite hatred, his aura was immense.

    He understood that if he seeded in dragging out the fight, the reinforcement would arrive. Chen Fan would be trapped and face certain death then.

    Desperate to see Chen Fan fall, the Second Dragon Lord swung his Sky Reaching Staff with all his might, causing the sky to tremble. The air exploded in bursts, with explosions echoing all around.

    Both fighters were determined to kill the other, showing no mercy. Each attack was a life-or-death move, blood spraying in every direction. The brutal scene left onlookers gasping in shock.

    The rest of the Dragon God Army had been reduced to mere spectators, powerless to step in. Even a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert would be courting death by intervening.

    The two were no longer just fighting; it was a deadly gamble, with both putting their lives on the line.

    Chills rose up the backs of everyone as they watched.

    In the end, however, Chen Fan proved stronger.

    He swept out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd, moving as fast as lightning, and arrived in front of the Second Dragon Lord. He shattered the Sky Reaching Staff.

    Weaponless now, the dragon lord now only had his physique, which made him all but powerless in front of Chen Fan.

    No matter how tough his physique was, it was impossible for him topare to a Grade-5 treasure.

    After all, he couldn¡¯t crush a Grade-5 treasure with his bare hands like Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan effortlessly sliced the Second Dragon Lord in half.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Fresh blood spattered, and bone fragments flew. The Second Dragon Lord, whose name shook thends, was killed on the spot by Chen Fan.

    Everyone watching this scene was dumbfounded.

    The Second Dragon Lord was defeated.

    He actually lost!

    Moreover, Chen Fan had killed him.

    This was nothing like what they had imagined.

    They had expected Chen Fan to be trapped like a turtle in a jar, surrounded by the Dragon God Army and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau. No matter how much he struggled, they thought it would be futile.

    However, Chen Fan wiped out the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s people first before killing the Second Dragon Lord.

    If Chen Fan had only recently risen to fame, the Second Dragon Lord had been renowned for many years.

    Yet, just like that, a seasoned expert had fallen at Chen Fan¡¯s hands. Even igniting his bloodline¡¯s power wasn¡¯t enough¡ªChen Fan¡¯s sheer strength overwhelmed him.

    There were no schemes or tricks involved. Chen Fan had killed him with raw power.

    Even though the Second Dragon Lord had once suppressed Chen Fan and was beating him down after igniting the power of his bloodline, Chen Fan ultimately proved to be stronger.

    Was the Second Dragon Lord not powerful?

    No, he was very powerful!

    If any of them were also at the eighth level, they would readily admit that they were no match for the Second Dragon Lord. They wouldn¡¯t have been able to withstand a single strike from him and would have been killed instantly.

    And Chen Fan had defeated and killed such a figure, all while being at the sixth level.

    This only served to highlight Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength.

    Many people felt chills rising in their hearts.

    Today, they had witnessed a brutal battle between some of the strongest members of the younger generation. Three top experts had fallen, bing nothing more than history.

    This was the cruelty of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Ancient Trial Road.

    On this road where geniuses were as numerous as ants, the so-called geniuses were only slightly stronger ants. There would always be experts who were much more powerful than them.

    How difficult was it to achieve the status of unrivaled?

    A cold wind blew, carrying the thick smell of blood through the air, amplifying the destion of the scene.

    Chen Fan panted heavily. His aura had also be unsteady.

    Although he killed the Second Dragon Lord, thetter was an unparalleled genius, after all. He was much stronger than the Fifth Young Master or the Sixth Young Master, especially after the Second Dragon Lord ignited the power of his bloodline. His strength had soared wildly, making Chen Fan receive heavy injuries.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, brothers! He¡¯s already seriously injured. We¡¯ll strike together and kill him to avenge the two dragon lords and the fallen brothers!¡± roared a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm high-ranking Dragon God Army personnel.

 Chapter 666 - Making a Bloody Path Out

    <h4>Chapter 666 - Making a Bloody Path Out</h4>

    The surviving Dragon God Army roared angrily, filled with killing intent.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°ughter him, avenge the two dragon lords!¡±

    ¡°Rip him to shreds, avenge our fallen brothers!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s severe injuries were undeniable, but he didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°Kill me? With just you losers? Even if I¡¯m in this state right now, I can easily ughter you people!¡± Chen Fanughed coldly. With a sh, he rushed toward the group of Dragon God Army members with overwhelming killing intent.

    They thought they could kill him just because he was heavily injured?

    What a big joke!

    Kill, kill, kill!

    Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan charged into the Dragon God Army.

    Streaks of deadly halberd light shed in the air, poised to take lives.

    It suppressed heaven and earth by force, shattering the void. Killing intent swept out rampantly.

    The martial artists surrounding Chen Fan were no pushovers. Even the weakest among them was a fourth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, and each had inherited powerful legacies, possessing unique abilities.

    These were the top geniuses from their respective domains, all gathered here.

    However, that was all inconsequential.

    Chen Fan reveled in the carnage. His qi and blood surged fiercely as he cut them down one by one.

    The army members failed to even slow down Chen Fan¡¯s killing spree. With every strike of his halberd, another life was taken.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    The Dragon God Army members who had confidently surrounded him at the start were now screaming in agony, blood spraying everywhere as Chen Fan ughtered them.

    The seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert who had first called for Chen Fan¡¯s death was decapitated in one swift stroke. His divine nascent howled in agony within the Heaven Seizing Furnace, enduring unspeakable pain.

    A sixth-level Divine Nascent realm expert exploded into a mist of blood from Chen Fan¡¯s punch. Even his divine nascent turned into mush before it could even scream.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    With a whip of his leg, Chen Fanshed out like an ancient divine whip. His kicknded on a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert, sending him flying. His muscles tore, his bones broke, and he exploded.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace hovering above Chen Fan swept out, sucking in all the heavily injured or blown up experts, refining them. They turned into pure vitality essence that surged back into Chen Fan, rapidly healing his wounds.

    ¡°No! I want to go home. I want to go home!¡±

    One Dragon God Army member, gripped by terror, bolted away from the carnage, his spiritpletely shattered. A Heaven Piercing Spear tore through the sky, impaling him before he could take another step.

    Go home?

    There was no going back!

    ¡°A killing god, he¡¯s a killing god!¡±

    ¡°My god, this is a bloodbath. He is ughtering these geniuses like they are pigs.¡±

    ¡°How is the True Martial Academy allowing him to go on such a killing spree?¡±

    ¡°Allow? They opened the Ancient Trial Road precisely for this kind of culling. Weaklings must die for the strong to emerge as true geniuses and join the academy. Someone dying here only means that they aren¡¯t qualified to join the True Martial Academy!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Onlookers in the surrounding area watched in horror as Chen Fan¡¯s merciless ughter unfolded, realizing that he was someone they must never cross.

    Seeing the prides of heaven perish one after another, everyone¡¯s hearts trembled fiercely.

    The Dragon God Army and Heaven Supervisory Bureau, both super forces, wanted to surround and kill Chen Fan, but they were the ones being decimated in an overwhelming disy of force. Everyone was left speechless in disbelief.

    Suddenly, an extremely powerful aura came from afar.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The aura was no weaker than that of the Fifth Young Master¡¯s. Chen Fan realized this was definitely an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    Narrowing his gaze, he swiftly cut down another member of the Dragon God Army with his halberd before turning into a stream of light, speeding toward the distance.

    ¡°Chen Fan, where do you think you¡¯re going? Hand over the heaven-tier martial art, or you¡¯ll be hunted down to your death!¡± An angry roar came from afar. Obviously, the person wanted to seize Chen Fan¡¯s heaven-tier martial art.

    The neer didn¡¯t belong to a major force. He was a rogue cultivator, an old devil. Driven by the temptation of the heaven-tier martial art, he had rushed to the scene after hearing the news.

    With Chen Fan, the Dragon God Army, and the Heaven Supervisory Bureau all heavily wounded, it was the perfect moment for him to strike.

    Chen Fan ignored the roar. He wasn¡¯t afraid of the neer and could still kill an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm in his current state, but that woulde at a huge price.

    The news of him obtaining a heaven-tier martial art had already spread throughout the Gen Road. Even people on the other Ancient Trial Roads had caught wind of it.

    Bing seriously injured now would only open the door to greater dangers ahead. He couldn¡¯t afford any more injuries.

    However, the heaven-tier martial art wouldn¡¯t lose all its charm just because Chen Fan didn¡¯t want to fight.

    Suddenly, a terrifying white bone hand came wing over from ahead, shattering the space. The air exploded everywhere, proving that this attack was very powerful.

    ¡°You¡¯re asking to die!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly as he swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, sting this white bone w to smithereens. He grabbed at the empty air with his left hand. A Heaven Piercing Spear materialized in his hand, which he threw.

    The Heaven Piercing Spear tore through the sky, producing a thunderous sound.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The wind and clouds ahead rolled, forcing a white-haired elder out of hiding.

    He was thin as a match, and his clothes were embroidered with skulls. He was also an old devil at the peak of the seventh level.

    Forced into the open, the elder¡¯s face paled as he sensed the tremendous power emanating from the Heaven Piercing Spear. Desperate, he struck out repeatedly, trying to break the spear''s momentum.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan shed across, and a halberd light shone. The old devil was split in two, dying a horrific death as his corpse plummeted lifelessly from the sky.

    <i>C!</i>

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going, Chen Fan? If you don¡¯t hand over the heaven-tier martial art, then today will be the day you die!¡±

    Anotherrge group blocked his way, showing hostility with their sharp gazes. They were all desperadoes, willing to risk their lives for riches, thinking they could exploit Chen Fan¡¯s current state to seize the heaven-tier martial art.

    Killing intent shed in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Now, it was like a pack of wolves was at the front, while a ferocious tiger was chasing from behind. These people would not let him leave so easily.

    ¡°Since you don¡¯t want to let me go, I¡¯ll cut out a bloody road myself!¡±

    Icy killing intent shot out of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Perhaps these snakes would only truly learn fear if he paved a wide road to the True Martial Academy with fresh blood.

    Wrapped in overpowering killing intent, Chen Fan did not slow down in the slightest and charged toward the group obstructing his way.

    A terrifying aura covered the sky, concealing the sun and the moon.

 Chapter 667 - Kill Chen Fan, Obtain Legacy

    <h4>Chapter 667 - Kill Chen Fan, Obtain Legacy</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan, hand over the heaven-tier martial art and you shall be spared!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the point of talking with him? He¡¯s already heavily injured. Capture him and search his soul!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, I advise you to stop being stubborn, or you will die today!¡±

    A pack of wolves in front, a ferocious tiger behind¡ªeveryone was after Chen Fan¡¯s heaven-tier martial art.

    These desperadoes were hardened by battle, each one having survived countless life-or-death situations.

    The moment they caught wind that Chen Fan had a heaven-tier martial art, they pounced like bloodthirsty sharks.

    His gaze frigid and his being wrapped in overpowering killing intent, he charged toward the people blocking his way.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Only by ughtering his way through, by instilling sheer terror into his enemies, would these people back down from their greed.

    ¡°Courting death!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    ¡°What a pig-headed man!¡±

    When the enemies saw Chen Fan charging toward them, their faces became iparably dark and cold. Their auras red violently as their cultivation powers surged, causing the very air to quake and primeval qi to ripple chaotically around them.

    A terrifying halberd light swept out, and a sixth-level Divine Nascent realm expert was cleaved in half, his blood spraying like rain from the sky.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    <i>ng!</i>

    The sh of metal resounded as another halberd strikended. A seventh-level Divine Nascent realm expert, charging headlong at Chen Fan, was sent flying as if torn through the heavens. He spewed blood, crashing into a distant mountain and shattering it into pieces. Whether he lived or died was unclear.

    Killing intent surged from Chen Fan, an overwhelming force that made him appear like a god of death, instilling deep terror into the hearts of all those who dared to oppose him.

    ¡°So what if I am injured? You scoundrels still aren¡¯t qualified to take me down. Go to hell!¡±

    Chen Fan was like a ferocious tiger, descending upon his enemies with unstoppable force. The halberd in his hands shed, each strike copsing the very space around it. The air trembled as it was torn apart, and screams filled the battlefield.

    Although these people all had fierce reputations, how could theypare to Chen Fan?

    They simply weren¡¯t on the same level!

    Below, the scouts from various major forces and martial artists who hade after hearing themotion gasped in disbelief. They watched as the pack of wolves, intent on cornering Chen Fan, was systematically ughtered by him.

    ¡°Another group is wiped out!¡±

    They could tell that Chen Fan was very heavily injured; still, hisbat strength was terrifying. He truly was like a killing god, massacring everywhere without mercy.

    A sixth-level Divine Nascent realm expert ignited his life force and forcibly broke through to the seventh level. With newfound power, heunched himself at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Go die!¡±

    The expert¡¯s palm descended like a massive mountain, shattering the void itself. The force was crushing, overwhelming¡ªbut futile.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    With sheer brutality, Chen Fan tore through the attack with his bare hands, ripping apart the palm strike and the expert behind it as if tearing a mountain in two.

    Suddenly, heaven and earth trembled violently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    That eighth-level Divine Nascent realm old devil had caught up. He sent out a palm strike across the sky. The terrifying palm seal, that could shatter heaven and earth, darted toward Chen Fan fiercely.

    ¡°Break!¡± Chen Fan counterattacked, unleashing a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi that tore the palm seal apart.

    The sword qi continued whistling forth, sending that eighth-level Divine Nascent realm old devil flying backward.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    This scene caused countless people¡¯s eyeballs to nearly pop out.

    Despite being heavily injured, Chen Fan could still send an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm expert flying with a single strike. How terrifying!

    Chen Fan ignored the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm old devil. He quickly unfolded the Wings of Rain Dragon and disappeared into the horizon, leaving behind a bloody odor.

    Looking disheveled, the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm old devil tried to chase after him but found that it was impossible to catch up to him. He grew so angry that he wailed and roared, his true primeval exploding.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    The crowd murmured and talked about the fight. The news of Chen Fan¡¯s actions had spread like wildfire, shocking countless people.

    ¡°He¡¯s too scary, absolutely monstrous! Even under these dire circumstances, he managed to escape. All those old devils were ughtered instead¡ªso much blood spilled, it could form a river. Heavens, is he the reincarnation of a heavenly god?¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan killed the Dragon God Army and Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s people. I¡¯m afraid both forces will be enraged. What¡¯s waiting for him ahead can only be an endless pursuit.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not the only frightening thing about him. His physique... it¡¯s too abnormal. There¡¯s no way he¡¯s ordinary. I bet he has a special bloodline. Without that, there¡¯s no way to exin his insanebat power. Not even a heaven-tier martial art could ount for this.¡±

    ¡°That sword qi is also very terrifying. I¡¯m sure that¡¯s also a heaven-tier martial art. <i>Tsk tsk. </i>Chen Fan isn¡¯t just a threat¡ªhe¡¯s a walking treasure trove. Once the word gets out, I doubt he¡¯ll ever know peace again.¡±

    ¡°Hmph. Honestly, all these ¡®prides of heaven¡¯ have their own miraculous encounters. It¡¯s just that no one knows exactly what they have obtained. But here¡¯s the real problem: Chen Fan doesn¡¯t have a powerful background like the others. He¡¯s an easy target. They¡¯ll keep picking on him.¡±

    ¡°Right,¡± another voice chimed in. ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s sect is in a backwater empire in the Hong Domain. The strongest expert there is only in the first-level Divine Nascent realm! What better target could there be? They¡¯ll bully him because they can.¡±

    ¡°His talent is simply incredible, no? Toe from such a backwater ce and achieve this level ofbat strength is astounding. If he doesn¡¯t fall here, he¡¯s destined to be one of the top experts in the eastern continent.¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, the only sin he¡¯s guilty of is possessing a great treasure. It won¡¯t be so easy for him to get through this. Now that word has already spread, there¡¯s no telling what extreme difficulties lie ahead of him. In truth, this road is paved with the corpses of geniuses. No matter how gifted someone is, if they can¡¯t survive long enough to grow, it¡¯s all meaningless.¡±

    Of the three dragon lords of the Dragon God Army, only the First Dragon Lord remained.

    Of the seven young-master-ss figures being nurtured as the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s next Bureau Chief, three of them were dead.

    Along with that, nearly two hundred experts from these two forcesbined perished. None of these two hundred people were ordinary.

    On the Dragon God Army¡¯s side, these people were all top geniuses of various domains.

    On the Heaven Supervisory Bureau¡¯s side, they were all Thousand Household Commanders and Hundred Household Commanders who could oversee an area. Their fearsome reputation was enough to stop a child from crying. [1]

    But the most sensational part of the rumor? It was said that Chen Fan had mastered not just one but multiple heaven-tier martial arts. This was like pouring oil on fire, causing an uproar at once.

    If Chen Fan¡¯s sh with the Third Dragon Lord in ck me City had only stirred a ripple across the Gen Road, then now, it was as if a meteor had struck, shaking the very foundation of thends.

    For a time, many people set their eyes on Chen Fan, hoping to find him and seizing the opportunities he held would be their ticket to unimaginable power.

    All of a sudden, Chen Fan became a fragrant steamed bun in the people¡¯s eyes.

    Although they knew Chen Fan possessed extraordinarybat strength, those who had survived the brutal trials of the Ancient Trial Road were far from ordinary

    Moreover, no matter how powerful Chen Fan was, could he win against overwhelming numbers?

    As a result, a chilling slogan began to circte across the Gen Road, uniting many under amon goal:

    Kill Chen Fan, obtain legacy.

    1. The titles seem to be based on the Yuan Dynasty¡¯s (Led by Mongol) military units, Minggan for Thousand, and Jagun for Hundred. Funny, considering they¡¯re named the Great Qin Empire. I kept it simple for easyprehension, since it¡¯s unlikely it¡¯ll be relevant. ?

 Chapter 668 - Killing on the Go

    <h4>Chapter 668 - Killing on the Go</h4>

    As news of the battle outside the microcosm spread, for a time, Chen Fan¡¯s name shook the entire Blue Dragon Domain.

    ¡°Have you guys heard? Two of the Three Great Dragon Lords of that arrogant and despotic Dragon God Army died, both by the same person!¡±

    ¡°The Three Great Dragon Lords were already top experts among the younger generation on this road, but Chen Fan killed two of them. He really is incredible.¡±

    ¡°He will surely take a spot among the top experts of the younger generation!¡±

    Soon, anyone even remotely aware of current events was talking about this daredevil of a young man.

    As everyone had expected, the Dragon God Army and Heaven Supervisory Bureau issued wanted posters. They didn¡¯t care if Chen Fan was caught alive or dead; whoever delivered him or his head would be richly rewarded.

    The Dragon God Army even announced that as long as Chen Fan was killed, they wouldn¡¯t ask for the heaven-tier martial arts technique, regardless of who imed it.

    No one took the Dragon God Army¡¯s deration to heart, however. After all, if someone could kill Chen Fan, they likely wouldn¡¯t fear the Dragon God Army and take the martial arts.

    Almost immediately, countless forces and experts joined the hunt for Chen Fan.

    Aside from the Heaven Supervisory Bureau and the Dragon God Army, many other forcesrge and small¡ªas well as old devils, were also tracking him down, eager to kill him and take his wealth to grow stronger.

    These forces included nearly every faction across the empires of the Blue Dragon Domain. Their search nearly flipped the entire Blue Dragon Domain upside down.

    Even with Chen Fan¡¯s ability, it was difficult to stay hidden.

    Four days after Chen Fan ughtered many and escaped, he was tracked down in a small city by a Brocade Uniform Guard from the Great Ming Empire.

    After a fierce battle, Chen Fan killed all the Brocade Uniform Guards who had rushed there upon hearing the news and swiftly escaped.

    On the tenth day, at the borders of the Blue Dragon Domain, a group of old devils ambushed Chen Fan. He managed to kill many of them, but thebined attacks of several eighth-level Divine Nascent realm devils left him severely wounded. He barely escaped with his life.

    Chen Fan disappeared for an entire month next.

    When he reappeared, Chen Fan had crossed into the Dark Heaven Domain, a vast region teeming with powerful experts, much like the Blue Dragon Domain.

    Chen Fan¡¯s name and portrait had long since spread throughout the Gen Road.

    Empires and factions along this ancient road had distributed his portrait, instructing their forces to be on high alert. It could be said that an inescapable of heaven and earth had been cast over the region, making it impossible for Chen Fan to move without being noticed.

    In the Dark Heaven Domain, the city lord of South Shu City, an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, learned that Chen Fan had been spotted by his people.

    The city lord immediately tried to capture Chen Fan and interrogate him about the legacies.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s injuries had healed in thest month. He immediately engaged in a fierce battle with the city lord, a renowned figure in the area, and killed him publicly with just three strikes of his halberd, staining the sky crimson.

    Ten dayster, another huge battle erupted in the Dark Heaven Domain¡¯s Myriad Sun Glow City.

    Three eighth-level Divine Nascent realm experts joined forces to surround and kill Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan disyed invincible godly might again, cutting down two of them and severely injuring thest. If it wasn¡¯t for this person fleeing quickly, he too would have been in on the spot.

    Half a monthter, in the Myriad Seas Domain¡¯s Huaxu Ancient State, Chen Fan fought a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert. After exchanging thirty moves, he fled with light injuries.

    A monthter...

    On the road to True Martial City, every step was fraught with danger for Chen Fan. Too many forces wanted him dead.

    He killed as he traveled, cutting down countless demons and ghosts.

    From the Blue Dragon Domain to the Myriad Seas Domain, Chen Fan had carved a bloody path forward.

    Any other sixth-level Divine Nascent realm expert in his position would have died long ago, losing their life to the dangers lurking at every corner.

    However, Chen Fan survived it all. In the midst of this killing spree, his strength rose rapidly.

    For this reason, he earned the title Killing God Chen Fan.

    News about Chen Fan spread rapidly along the Gen Road, and it could be said that his famepletely eclipsed everyone else.

    The fight against the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm in the Huaxu Ancient State was especially noteworthy.

    Although he lost, he managed to exchange thirty moves with only a peak sixth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation and escaped with light injuries. After word of this spread, the entire Gen Road was shaken.

    After this incident, Chen Fan became a true legend on the Gen Road, standing alongside figures like the First Dragon Lord as one of the most powerful of the younger generation.

    Many people even felt that Chen Fan could squeeze into the ranks of first-rate experts across the entire eastern continent.

    To put it into perspective, ninth-level Divine Nascent realms were the strongest existences below the Heavenly Star realm.

    Chen Fan even managed to escape from such top-notch experts, proving his strength.

    Everyone realized that unless a Heavenly Star realm expert stepped in, no one in the Divine Nascent realm could kill Chen Fan.

    ¡°How truly terrifying this Chen Fan is. He¡¯s stirred up the entire Gen Road.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? He killed his way through, and instead of just surviving, he grew stronger with each fight. Eighth-level Divine Nascent realms are no match for him. If seventh-level Divine Nascent realm experts went to him, they would just be throwing their lives away.¡±

    ¡°Even a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert could only injure him. Can you believe it? He¡¯s only at peak sixth-level Divine Nascent!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan has a lot of secrets. He obtained the heaven-tier martial art, Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, in the microcosm, and there¡¯s also that Green Lotus Sword Qi. That martial art is not inferior to the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture. What¡¯s even more terrifying is his physique! What kind of martial arts could cultivate a physique like that? Like Grade-5 or 6 treasure, almost unbreakable. I bet it¡¯s even more advanced than the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture!¡±

    ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why everyone¡¯s after him. He¡¯s a moving treasure vault. If someone could get just one of the martial arts he knows, they¡¯d benefit endlessly.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many people were talking about Chen Fan. His fame wasn¡¯t limited to the Gen Road. It seemed like everyone knew about him, even the lowest-level martial artists.

    They all dreamed of obtaining opportunities like Chen Fan had, hoping to rise to prominence in a single leap and be a well-known super expert.

    While the people were talking about Chen Fan, the man in question was deep in the mountains and forests, preparing to advance to the seventh level.

    He kept killing as he went, growing stronger the more he fought. His cultivation rose very quickly.

    Life-or-death battles have a way of bringing out a person¡¯s full potential, speeding up their cultivation. Chen Fan was living proof of that.

 Chapter 669 - Seven Eccentrics of Plum Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 669 - Seven entrics of Plum Mountain</h4>

    Chen Fan had carved out a bloody path and risen to great fame.

    Although many still coveted his treasures, pretty much no one dared to make a move unless they were at either the eighth or the ninth level.

    Everyone knew that Chen Fan grew stronger with every battle. Taking down eighth-level Divine Nascent realm experts was no longer difficult for him, and even ninth-level experts would struggle to bring him down.

    Thus, only powerful figures at the eighth or ninth level were still searching for Chen Fan.

    Although many Heavenly Star realm figures were also tempted, they didn¡¯t dare to act recklessly. Intervening would break the rules, and True Martial Academy was too terrifying.

    So, many Heavenly Star realm experts waited for those rogue cultivators and old devils to seed in killing Chen Fan and taking his martial arts. They could then swoop in, kill the old devils, and im the benefits for themselves.

    True Martial Academy had opened eight ancient roads as trials for geniuses seeking to join. Killing was tacitly allowed.

    It wasn¡¯t just the trial participants who were fair game¡ªrogue cultivators and old devils could also act, as long as they followed the rules.

    This was the academy¡¯s way of raising the difficulty for those undergoing the trial, something they silently approved of.

    With less than two months remaining in the one-year trial period, True Martial Academy¡¯s grand opening was fast approaching.

    The younger generation of experts dared not waste any time, rushing toward True Martial City. Missing the academy¡¯s opening would mean being deemed unworthy of its gates.

    The Shattered Star Domain, a stronghold of the eastern continent, bordered True Martial City.

    At the edge of the Shattered Star Domain, a figure stood on a mountaintop, looking into the distance ahead.

    ¡°The Shattered Star Domain is just ahead. I can step into True Martial City after crossing the Shattered Star Domain, and this trial journey wille to an end!¡±

    This person was none other than Chen Fan.

    Crossing the Shattered Star Domain and entering True Martial City was not a difficult task for Chen Fan.

    Given his current cultivation, he could traverse an entire domain in ten days to half a month¡ªassuming, of course, there were no obstacles. But for Chen Fan, a smooth journey was unlikely.

    After all, many people had their eyes on him, coveting his secrets.

    The Shattered Star Domain was the final opportunity for these people to make their move.

    Once he entered True Martial City, there was nothing they could do even if they were green with envy.

    Chen Fan expected thisst leg of the journey to be the most difficult.

    Even so, he was not afraid.

    He was now at the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm, and his Hegemonic Golden Body had also risen to level 6. He had also mastered the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, and his Green Lotus Sword Qi advanced to the ninthyer.

    Even a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivator was no longer a threat to him.

    At the Huaxu Ancient State, he exchanged thirty moves with a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert with only sixth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation and escaped with light injuries.

    If he met the other party again, Chen Fan was confident he could kill them.

    Without hesitation, he soared through the sky, streaking towards the Shattered Star Domain like a bolt of lightning. No obstacle, no matter how great, would stand in his way.

    As soon as he stepped into the Shattered Star Domain, a massive hand¡ªone that could cover the sky¡ªflew over and grabbed at Chen Fan as if trying to grab a helpless chick.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The wind howled, the clouds churned, and the air itself seemed to copse under the pressure.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shed with a fierce, cold light as he countered with his Northern Star Reaper Hand. It shed with the giant hand in a violent explosion that shattered space itself, turning the world into chaos.

    The earth quaked, mountains shook¡ªit was as if the apocalypse had arrived.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A cold, indifferent voice rang out, and a group of silhouettes appeared ahead.

    ¡°You¡¯ve finally shown yourself, Chen Fan. Hand over your secrets, and we can spare your life. Otherwise, there is no path for you today¡ªwhether in heaven or earth, death is your only destination!"

    The leader of the group was a ck-robed elder with an aquiline nose and small eyes, exuding a powerful aura of the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Apanying him were six others, all boasting formidable eighth-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation.

    The seven boundlessly powerful auras surged and shook the heavens.

    These seven people were the Shattered Star Domain¡¯s famous Seven entrics of Plum Mountain.

    ¡°You seven pieces of trash think you can kill me?¡± Chen Fan looked at them indifferently, showing no sign of panic.

    Before breaking through to the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm, he would have certainly struggled against them, but now they were the perfect opponents for him to test his strength.

    The Seven entrics spoke in unison, disregarding Chen Fan as if they were guaranteed victory.

    ¡°As arrogant as rumored! We know you¡¯ve escaped a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert before, but today you¡¯re facing us Seven entrics of Plum Mountain! Your tragic fate is sealed! Your legend ends here!¡±

    ¡°Exactly! We¡¯re generous enough to offer you a chance to live, considering your difficult path in cultivation. Don¡¯t make a foolish mistake¡ªhand over your secrets now!¡±

    ¡°No need to waste your breath on him. He dares to call us trash, then he¡¯s destined to die!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, he must pay the price of death just for insulting us!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°You speak too much nonsense!¡±

    Chen Fan did not have that much time to waste on these people. With a swift motion, he charged at them.

    As Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation erupted, the space immediately shook. A terrifying aura spread out.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°What Seven entrics of Plum Mountain, I¡¯ll send you all to hell today and turn you into the Seven Corpses of Plum Mountain!¡±

    Chen Fan attacked before even finishing his sentence, unleashing a Northern Star Reaper Hand. An intent of death filled the space, causing people to despair.

    ¡°Get him!¡± shouted the leading ck-robed elder. His aura rose to the sky,unching a terrifying divine light that sted forth, tearing through space.

    The other six entrics didn¡¯t hold back either. Their cultivation swelled and stirred, each using their own methods to attack.

    Half the sky was immediately filled with huge explosions.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying qi waves crashed down like a deluge from the heavens, shaking the earth and fracturing mountains beneath them.

    Someone shouted icily, ¡°Die!¡±

    A shocking halberd light tore through the sky, shing through the chaos, and instantly descended. The Seven entrics of Plum Mountain turned pale with fright. They hurriedly cast their defensive techniques to defend themselves.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    In an instant, their defenses shattered under Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming might, sending all seven flying as they coughed up blood.

 Chapter 670 - Half-Step Heavenly Star

    <h4>Chapter 670 - Half-Step Heavenly Star</h4>

    ¡°What!¡±

    The Seven entrics of Plum Mountain spewed blood, their faces painted with disbelief as they stared at Chen Fan. His single sweep of the Purgatory Divine Halberd had sent them all flying, leaving them struggling to maintain theirposure.

    They were far from weak, with their leader being at the ninth level. While Chen Fan was strong enough to exchange blows with a ninth-level expert, they had been confident that if they ganged up on him, they could take him down.

    Yet, Chen Fan had sent them all flying with one attack. How could they not be shocked?

    ¡°How is this possible? How are you so strong!¡± Incredulous, the ninth-level ck-robed elder looked at Chen Fan, failing to hide his surprise.

    Holding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, Chen Fan nced at him indifferently and said, ¡°Nothing is impossible, especially when you are all so weak. You chose to block my path, so I will be kind enough to clear your path to hell!"

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan left a streaking afterimage as he appeared in front of the leading elder in an instant. His Purgatory Divine Halberd was like the halberd of death, wrapped in the power of death, as it descended.

    The air roared in fury, and the earth itself trembled, unable to bear the sheer terror of Chen Fan¡¯s attack.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    The ck-robed elder¡¯s face twisted in horror as the deadly energy descended upon him. With a furious roar, his true primeval surged and rushed forth, transforming into a golden bell covered in glowing talismanic runes.

    Chen Fan¡¯s shnded on this golden bell. The talismanic runes flickered violently, producing cracking noises.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The bell, though strong, couldn''t withstand Chen Fan¡¯s devastating blow and shattered. Blood sprayed from the leading elder¡¯s chest as the impact sent him flying.

    After heavily injuring the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm ck-robed elder, Chen Fan struck out with his left hand.

    A Great Brahma Sacred Palm covered the sky. A massive golden palm, like that of an ancient god, fell from the sky, enveloping three of the seven entrics.

    ¡°No!¡±

    ¡°Break for me!¡±

    These three entrics felt death descending upon them. Only now did they realize how foolish they had been to block Chen Fan.

    s, it was already toote to regret.

    They executed killing moves one after another, attacking therge golden palm pressing down toward them.

    However, in front of absolute strength, they proved weak and failed to resist it at all.

    Therge golden palm crashed into the three entrics, causing the earth to crack as if an earthquake had urred.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    When the gigantic golden palm had dissipated, the three entrics were nowhere to be seen. Their souls had scattered.

    Chen Fan had improved in all areas. Eighth-level Divine Nascent realms were like children in front of him.

    When the other three entrics saw Chen Fan kill three of them with a single palm strike, they were scared out of their wits and soiled their pants in terror, immediately trying to flee with all their strength.

    ¡°Thinking of escaping?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly. He grabbed at the empty air, sending out a Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    Chen Fan snatched the entrics with precision, like grabbing helpless chicks. With three loud booms, the remaining three were dead.

    Though it seemed like a long story, everything happened in an instant.

    Six of the Seven entrics of Plum Mountain had fallen in the blink of an eye, leaving only their heavily injured leader behind.

    Many observers, hidden in the shadows, witnessed it all.

    When they saw Chen Fan killing the Seven entrics of Plum Mountain as if they were mere poultry, posing no real threat, their hearts trembled with shock.

    ¡°Terrifying, too terrifying! Chen Fan has be even stronger. Now, eighth-level Divine Nascent realms are like ants in front of him, and even a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm can¡¯t withstand his attacks!¡±

    ¡°He has advanced to the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm, and his physique has be even tougher. There¡¯s no chance, we have no chance. Without Heavenly Star realm cultivation, it¡¯s simply impossible to bring him down!¡±

    ¡°Thankfully, the Seven entrics of Plum Mountain went first. We¡¯d be lying dead like the six entrics had we rushed in.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Several divine wills intertwined in the air, each sensing the fear in the others.

    Chen Fan carved a bloody path from the Great Qin Empire of the Blue Dragon Domain, crossing several vast domains, hunted by experts from various forces. His journey along the ancient road was paved with the bodies of countless experts he had in.

    He had reached this far by stepping over their corpses.

    As the divine wills of these people hidden in the dark weremunicating, a sharp noise suddenly rang out. It was Chen Fan hurling a Heaven Piercing Spear at the ck-robed elder.

    <i>C!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear was like a ferocious ck dragon, tearing through space and zipping toward the ck-robed elder.

    Chen Fan¡¯s earlier attack had already injured the ck-robed elder, nearly cleaving him. The elder could barely muster thirty to forty percent of his strength.

    Helpless against the terrifying spear, he was pierced through and exploded into a mist of blood. Not even his divine nascent escaped.

    Heaven and earth fell silent.

    ¡°He¡¯s dead! The Seven entrics of Plum Mountain are no more!¡±

    ¡°What tremendous strength. Even a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm is like an ant in front of him.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? The leader of the Seven entrics of Plum Mountain spent over a decade cultivating in the ninth level; still, Chen Fan killed him with ease.¡±

    ¡°Quickly leave, he¡¯s set his eyes on us!¡±

    Suddenly, panic spread through their divine wills.

    They thought they had hidden themselves well; in truth, none of them escaped Chen Fan¡¯s sharp senses.

    Chen Fan¡¯s spiritual strength was incredible. Their divine wills couldn¡¯t hide from his perception. He had heard all of their conversations clearly.

    Immediately, three heads and six arms appeared on Chen Fan. Several Heaven Piercing Spears wrapped in terrifying power tore through the sky, shooting toward these people.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    These people had ill intentions toward Chen Fan, so he showed no mercy.

    Those who reacted too slowly were skewered like candy, their agonized screams filling the air.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Chen Fan dusted his hands, his expression filled with disdain.

    ¡°A bunch of losers!¡±

    Having designs on him with just this little bit of cultivation. They were simply courting death!

    Chen Fan suddenly felt his hair standing on end and his muscles tighten. Warning rms rang out loudly in his heart as a deathly intent shrouded him.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    Without any dy, he immediately moved to the side.

    Just as he moved, a palm sted the spot he had just been standing in, copsing the space like a ck hole.

    ¡°Hmm?¡± A faint sound of surprise rang out, and a figure appeared where Chen Fan had been moments before.

    It was a middle-aged man, radiating faint divine will fluctuations that made the air around him boil.

    ¡°Half-step Heavenly Star!¡± Chen Fan''s expression darkened immediately upon recognizing his attacker.

 Chapter 671 - Yuan Powang

    <h4>Chapter 671 - Yuan Powang</h4>

    ¡°Half-step Heavenly Star!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s expression sank when he saw the middle-aged man who hadunched the sneak attack.

    The attacker¡¯s Martial Dao Will was obscure, yet to morph into a proper one. All this proved that the attacker hadn¡¯t actually stepped into the Heavenly Star realm.

    However, since he had already tapped into this power, he was clearly a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, with one foot already through the doors of that realm.

    This middle-aged man looked at Chen Fan and said with a faint smile, ¡°Kid, you¡¯re pretty astute.¡±

    He hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to dodge a sneak attack from him, a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert.

    No wonder Chen Fan had managed to carve his way through countless dangers, escaping disaster time and again. His deeds on this journey had already spread across the entire Gen Road.

    Many had tried to take him down, but ny percent of them ended up dead by his hand, earning Chen Fan the title of "Killing God."

    Chen Fan had long since lost count of how many bloody battles he had gone through on this journey. He had literally cut his way through, eliminating anyone who dared covet his secrets.

    In the distance, those who had just breathed a sigh of relief after escaping Chen Fan¡¯s killing move froze in their tracks as they watched this unfold.

    They eximed in shock one after another after getting a clear look at the middle-aged man.

    ¡°Heavens, it¡¯s Yuan Powang! He actually made a move!¡±

    ¡°My god, Yuan Powang is a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. With him taking action, I¡¯m afraid Chen Fan will be finished this time.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. All those who say that only a Heavenly Star realm expert can take him down are forgetting that half-step Heavenly Star realm experts exist. They have already touched upon the power of Martial Dao Will and wield tremendous power, even using techniques simr to those of true Heavenly Star realm experts.¡±

    ¡°What a pity. All of Chen Fan¡¯s secrets will end up with Yuan Powang.¡±

    ¡°I heard that Chen Fan went to the Hidden Dragon Ind in Hong Domain to undergo his hundred-day trial and obtained a Martial Dao Will Fragment there. If Yuan Powang gets his hands on it, I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll master the power of Martial Dao Will and be a genuine Heavenly Star realm powerhouse.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan looked at Yuan Powang with a cold gaze, feeling an enormous pressure.

    Although he could easily kill a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, facing a half-step Heavenly Star realm opponent still left him feeling a bit overwhelmed.

    Yuan Powang¡¯s gaze locked onto Chen Fan firmly.

    ¡°Kid, I know everything about you like the back of my hand. Hand over all your secrets and treasures, and I''ll spare your life. I might even escort you to True Martial City. How about it?¡±

    As Chen Fan rose to fame on the Gen Road, every detail about him was dug up.

    Yuan Powang knew everything¡ªright down to the Martial Dao Will Fragment.

    With Chen Fan¡¯s heaven-tier martial arts and the Martial Dao Will Fragment, Yuan Powang saw his chance to fullyprehend the power of Martial Dao Will and ascend to the Heavenly Star realm.

    Chen Fan looked at Yuan Powang coldly and said indifferently, ¡°You want to take my treasures? That will depend on whether you have the ability!¡±

    Yuan Powang chuckled contemptuously and said, ¡°Kid, I know you¡¯re not weak. Not even ninth-level Divine Nascent realm experts are a match for you. Unfortunately for you, I am a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. You are just a slightly big ant before me. I¡¯m only showing goodwill in consideration that you haven¡¯t had an easy time cultivating up until this point. Don¡¯t make a mistake.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s fight!¡± Chen Fan did not say much and rushed forth. His qi surged, his clothes fluttered, and a sharp aura gushed out.

    So what if he was a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert? Chen Fan still wanted to fight!

    Yuan Powang''s expression turned icy as he sensed Chen Fan¡¯s fighting spirit. ¡°It seems like you¡¯re refusing a toast just to take the penalty. Fine, since you¡¯re asking to die, I¡¯ll grant your wish!¡±

    In an instant, Yuan Powang unleashed a wild, overpowering aura, exuding a sense of limitless strength.

    A faint power of will spread out from him, pressing down on Chen Fan¡ªa forceful suppression.

    But Chen Fan didn¡¯t flinch.

    Yuan Powang was only a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, so his power of will was very weak. Chen Fan had spent time studying the power of will from the Martial Dao Will Fragment he¡¯d obtained on Hidden Dragon Ind, gaining valuable insights.

    Although Chen Fan had yet toprehend it, it was nothing but a fool¡¯s errand if Yuan Powang wanted to suppress him with such a weak power of will.

    When Yuan Powang realized that Chen Fan wasn¡¯t affected by his power, his eyes shed brilliantly. ¡°You¡¯ve indeed obtained a Martial Dao Will Fragment. Excellent. With the Martial Dao Will Fragment, I can trulyprehend the power of will and advance to the Heavenly Star realm!¡±

    Yuan Powang¡¯s aura grew even more terrifying as his true primeval surged. He struck out with a palm, sending a powerful force through the air.

    Under this attack, the space cracked open and trembled violently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying oppressive force swept over as if thousands of ancient divine mountains were crashing over together, wanting to smash Chen Fan to pieces.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned cold, carrying traces of weight.

    Yuan Powang had already surpassed the limits of the Divine Nascent realm, possessing ten to twenty percent of a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse¡¯s strength. Such opponents were not easy to face.

    A terrifying power awakened in Chen Fan.

    His true primeval surged, and a faintly discernible flood dragon seemed to coil around him, its ferocious head ring at Yuan Powang, ready to tear him apart at any moment.

    This was the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture.

    Chen Fan had the power of a dragon-elephant''s bloodline inside him. Practicing the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture had aplementary effect, allowing him to master it with remarkable speed. At present, he already had some mastery over it.

    A flood dragon¡¯s cry lingered in the air.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>...¡±

    Chen Fan took a big step forward, carrying a berserk and terrifying aura. The flood dragon¡¯s silhouette leaped from him, lunging toward Yuan Powang.

    In an instant, the two attacks shed violently. Heaven and earth let out rumbling noises that sent terror and shock into people¡¯s hearts.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°What terrifying strength.¡±

    The crowd was stunned by their fight, their hearts shaking wildly.

    ¡°So powerful!¡±

    ¡°Both of them are so powerful!¡±

    Yuan Powang¡¯s strength was undeniable as a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. But Chen Fan¡ªonly at the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm¡ªdared to face him head-on, shattering their expectations of him.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>...¡±

    The flood dragon¡¯s angry roar rang out once again. The explosive impact reverberated, shaking the crowd¡¯s eardrums and seeming to tremble the very air around them.

    Above, a mass of terrifying, tyrannical energy surged, shaking the hearts of everyone present.

    Two figures shot out backwards from the storm simultaneously.

    <i>p, p, p...</i>

    Yuan Powang looked at Chen Fan, pping and smiling, ¡°Not bad, not bad at all! That move you just used must be the heaven-tier martial art Flood Dragon Fist Scripture from the microcosm, right? Very good, I like it very much.¡±

    He talked as if the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture was already his.

 Chapter 672 - Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies

    <h4>Chapter 672 - Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies</h4>

    Yuan Powang stared at Chen Fan as if he were just prey waiting to be ughtered.

    Despite failing to gain any advantage over Chen Fan in their earlier sh, he didn¡¯t feel frustrated. In fact, a sense of excitement welled up within him.

    The reason was clear: Chen Fan¡¯s Flood Dragon Fist Scripture. Its immense power allowed Chen Fan to resist him.

    With a heaven-tier martial art in his arsenal, he could fight against Heavenly Star realm experts, ones without a heaven-tier martial art, with just his half-step Heavenly Star realm cultivation.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I will give you onest chance. Hand over your secrets and treasures willingly, and I will spare you. Don¡¯t fool yourself into thinking that the heaven-tier martial art will let you stand against me. In that earlier sh, I didn¡¯t even use ten percent of my strength," Yuan Powang said indifferently, filled with an air of superiority and confidence.

    It was definitely impossible for Chen Fan to be his match.

    ¡°You really talk a lot of nonsense!¡± Chen Fan replied coldly.

    ¡°You¡¯re still being stubborn, I see. Since that is the case, then don¡¯t me me for being ruthless!¡±

    With that, Yuan Powang moved. In a sh, he stepped into the air, like lightning. An overwhelming power surrounded him, making him seem like an immortal descending from the ninth heaven.

    But Chen Fan refused to back down. Flood dragon silhouettes swirled around him, and a deafening dragon¡¯s roar echoed, shaking the void around them.

    Chen Fan raised his hand and struck out at Yuan Powang. Immediately, a ferocious flood dragon swept out, shattering the void as it darted toward Yuan Powang.

    ¡°Annihte!¡± shouted Yuan Powang, materializing a sharp sword before him. He shed toward the flood dragon charging at him, tearing through the void as if it were mere fabric.

    The sword shed fiercely with the flood dragon, and a deafening sound echoed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A horrifying storm swept out, shattering the space around them and plunging the area into chaos. A deste wind blew, and heaven and earth turned ice-cold.

    Chen Fan spun in the air. The flood dragon silhouette at his back was iparably domineering.

    He was thrusting his palms so fast that they seemed like a blur as he sent flood dragon seals. Each strike made the very space tremble, as though mountains themselves were crashing toward Yuan Powang.

    Everyone in the surrounding area was dumbfounded by the horrifying scene.

    Chen Fan killing the Seven entrics of Plum Mountain had also shocked them, but this battle was on a different level. He was fighting Yuan Powang, a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, an opponent far beyondparison.

    The numerous flood dragon seals bombarded the void. Each palm strike contained iparably terrifying force that could kill or heavily injure ninth-level Divine Nascent realm experts, disying the terrifying might of heaven-tier martial arts.

    Being a half-step Heavenly Star realm, Martial Dao Will flowed through Yuan Powang, which, although faint, increased the power of his attacks.

    The two forces collided wildly in the air, triggering explosive storms that swept across thend. The ground beneath them cracked open, with fissures and ravines spreading out from the impact.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    ¡°Terrifying! He¡¯s really too terrifying! Chen Fan is really a monster. He¡¯s unwilling to relent even when facing Yuan Powang. He isn¡¯t falling into a disadvantage! My god, what has this world be?¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan is only in the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm. At the eighth or ninth level, won¡¯t he be able to fight a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be absurd! How can you evenpare a Heavenly Star realm expert to a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert? Chen Fan is incredibly powerful, I ept that. But I am sure he can¡¯t withstand a single blow from a genuine Heavenly Star realm.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The power of Martial Dao Will could easily suppress a Divine Nascent realm expert. There¡¯s simply no way topare the two.¡±

    "But... what if he manages toprehend a Martial Dao Will at the eighth or ninth level of the Divine Nascent realm?"

    ¡°How is that possible?¡±

    ¡°You are forgetting that he has a Martial Dao Will Fragment. By tapping into its power, it¡¯s not entirely impossible. If he trulyprehends it, he could neutralize the power suppression of a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse. Even fighting a Heavenly Star realm expert shouldn¡¯t be a problem then. After all, he''s already proven himself a monster capable of challenging those far above his level!"

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd fell silent, shocked by their own thoughts. As they watched Chen Fan¡¯s unparalleled ferocity, fighting Yuan Powang without the slightest disadvantage, a chilling realization began to take root.

    Could a Divine Nascent realm expert defy the heavens and kill a Heavenly Star realm?

    They wanted to dismiss it as impossible, but then again, rules were made to be broken.

    The Tianwu Continent was filled with geniuses, and perhaps somewhere, a monster existed¡ªsomeone who hadprehended a Martial Dao Will in the Divine Nascent realm and aplished the heaven-defying feat of killing a Heavenly Star realm powerhouse.

    It wasn¡¯t beyond the realm of possibility!

    ¡°Flood Dragon Tail Whip!¡± Chen Fan switched up his move. The flood dragon¡¯s tail cracked through the air with a deafening snap, striking Yuan Powang like a bolt of lightning. The impact shattered his protective true primeval, sending him hurtling through the sky.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    The people in the surrounding area were dumbstruck, and their mouths went dry.

    They had been debating whether Chen Fan could defy the heavens and kill a Heavenly Star realm expert at the eighth or ninth level. Now, in a single strike, he had sent the half-step Heavenly Star realm Yuan Powang flying.

    This was too shocking!

    Yuan Powang steadied himself, his expression dark and thunderous.

    A half-step Heavenly Star realm expert like him had been sent flying by Chen Fan, a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm brat. It was a disgrace beyond words.

    A wave of anger swept out from his chest. His aura instantly boiled over, twisting the surrounding space.

    He fixed Chen Fan with a murderous re, his chest heaving with the fury he could barely contain.

    "<i>Hmph</i>, I see I¡¯ve underestimated you," he growled, his voice dripping with venom. "But that¡¯s fine. Now, you''ve earned the right to face me at my full strength!.¡±

    The fact that a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivator had dared to send him flying¡ªno matter how unscathed he was¡ªwas a humiliation he could never erase. It was a stain on his pride that would haunt him forever.

    ¡°Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies!¡±

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A book appeared in Yuan Powang¡¯s hand, its pages unfurling in an instant. A mass of pure, vast and deeply profound primeval qi surged forth like a tidal wave, whipping up winds that roared across the battlefield.

    Yuan Powang had stumbled upon this strange book in a dangerous location by chance. Its powers were unfathomable and immense.

    As soon as the heavenly book appeared, countless silhouettes of fairies appeared on it, circling around Yuan Powang, making him seem like a peerless immortal king.

    He stood upon an immortal cloud, a river of stars cascading above his head. His palm transformed into a sharp hook, tearing through the very fabric of the heavens.

    A massive w surged forth, the force distorting space itself. A brilliant light shot out, piercing through space-time, and a torrent of destructive divine light erupted, obliterating the veryws of nature.

    ¡°Kid, to have forced me to wield the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies to deal with you, even if you die, you can smile your way to the underworld!

    ¡°Now, go to hell! Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies, w of Arrogance!¡±

 Chapter 673 - Desperate Fight

    <h4>Chapter 673 - Desperate Fight</h4>

    ¡°Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies, w of Arrogance!¡±

    A berserk power pushed across the three thousand great realms.

    The giant w overshadowed the universe and crammed the sun and the moon into its grasp before swiping down mercilessly. Space itself buckled and shattered under the sheer force of the attack.

    This was the power of one strike that could copse the very pirs of heaven, merging the essence of the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies with Yuan Powang''s cultivation.

    Chen Fan had enraged him by sending him flying. He had to kill Chen Fan in one fell swoop to wash away this shame and show his prestige as a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert.

    In an instant, Chen Fan felt as if heaven was pressing down on him.

    The divine dragon''s w tore through the universe, making the sun, moon, and stars appear as mere ss marbles inparison to its enormity.

    The oppressive force pressed down on Chen Fan, threatening to crush his bones and obliterate his blood, flesh, and soul.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± Chen Fan roared furiously. Dragon-elephants cried and waved their trunks majestically in everyponent of Chen Fan¡¯s body, including his cells and blood. Their roars swept the sun and the moon in the sky.

    Golden light erupted from him and his back, which had momentarily bent under the crushing pressure, straightened with unyielding force.

    The flood dragon silhouette coiled around Chen Fan grew even more substantial, infused with the power of the dragon-elephants. Its ferocity reached a terrifying peak.

    ¡°Flood Dragon Sky Splitting w!¡±

    Chen Fan wed upwards violently. The flood dragon silhouette flew out, its razor-sharp w tearing through the heavens, colliding head-on with the w. The sh seemed to shake the very fabric of existence itself.

    The space trembled violently as if two worlds had collided.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A violent storm tore through several kilometers, ripping up the ground as it surged forward.

    The earth buckled under the impact of their qi, and sharp cracking noises echoed. Fissures spread in all directions like a spiderweb, reaching the distant mountains, where several cloud-piercing peaks copsed.

    Yuan Powang¡¯s eyes zed with fury. Despite using the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies, w of Arrogance, he still couldn¡¯t bring Chen Fan down. This failure was intolerable.

    ¡°Undeserved Catastrophe!¡±

    Yuan Powang turned into a blur, moving like a ghost as lightning shed around him. His attacks were fierce, his movements impossible to track, and every strike carried the power to obliterate an entire area.

    Chen Fan stood in the air, meeting Yuan Powang¡¯s unpredictability with solidity. The Hegemonic Golden Body¡¯s immense pressure erupted, distorting the space within the surrounding thirty feet. He unleashed a series of punches, each one carving countless trails through the air as he confronted Yuan Powang¡¯s divine techniques head-on.

    No matter how fierce the attack, Chen Fan remained steadfast, enduring the wind and rain that battered him from every direction.

    The impact of their sh erupted in an explosion, and Chen Fan and Yuan Powang flew apart.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Both of them spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    The nearby crowd was iparably shaken. None of them expected Yuan Powang to fail, even with the power of the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies.

    ¡°Fabricated Diagram!¡±

    Yuan Powang was so furious that his eyes nearly popped out. He never imagined Chen Fan would be so formidable, so incredibly difficult to defeat.

    He had believed that his half-step Heavenly Star realm cultivation would make this battle effortless, but he had misjudged his opponent from the very start.

    Now, despite using the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies, he was still unable to suppress Chen Fan, making him feel very infuriated inside.

    Yuan Powang had intercepted Chen Fan to take his treasures; now, he only had one thought in his mind: he had to kill Chen Fan to protect his own reputation.

    He was Yuan Powang, a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. How could he possibly fail to bring down Chen Fan, a mere seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivator? That was unthinkable!

    After they were separated from the explosion, Yuan Powang charged forward once more. The true primeval on his palm condensed into a divine diagram.

    It expanded, enveloping the sky and shattering the void as it descended, covering heaven and earth. Yuan Powang stood at its center, like a monarch looking down on the world, unleashing wave after wave of devastating strikes.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The void trembled endlessly. The terrifying power rippled across the space, and any ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert caught in its path would be severely injured or killed.

    Yuan Powang¡¯s attacks struck Chen Fan, causing his qi and blood to tumble, and thetter spewed fresh blood from his mouth. However, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze only grew fiercer. A streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi erupted, tearing through heaven and earth and shed toward the divine diagram.

    ¡°Green Louts Sword Qi, sh!¡±

    The Green Lotus Sword Qi tore apart Yuan Powang¡¯s divine diagram and nearly disemboweled him.

    <i>C!</i>

    ¡°Damn it, it¡¯s indeed a heaven-tier martial art!¡±

    Yuan Powang broke out in cold sweat. The Green Lotus Sword Qi was too sharp; there was simply nothing it could not cut through. It even tore through his divine diagram like it was a piece of cloth. Was there something it could not cut?

    ¡°Die for me, Cmity of Broken Fantasy!¡±

    Yuan Powang¡¯s eyes were bloodshot. He channeled the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies again. A disastrous light immediately appeared, destroying everything and ruthlessly descending toward Chen Fan to destroy him.

    But Chen Fan stood firm, his Hegemonic Golden Body glowing brightly like an unyielding mountain, ready to face the Cmity of Broken Fantasy head-on.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    A terrifying force crashed into Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body, sending fresh blood spraying into the air, painting a grim picture. Yet, his aura remained majestic, unwavering.

    Grabbing at the void, he materialized a Heaven Piercing Spear with talismanic runes in his grasp. Chen Fan hurled it toward the Cmity of Broken Fantasy violently.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The Heaven Piercing Spear sliced through everything, obliterating the disastrous light and striking directly at its source,pletely destroying the Cmity of Broken Fantasy.

    Yuan Powang spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood, the bacsh from the destruction weighing heavily on him. His breath came in ragged gasps.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    ¡°Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!¡± Yuan Powang roared angrily.

    He never expected to end up in such a state.

    The fierce reputation he had built over his lifetime had crumbled. He wanted nothing more than to tear Chen Fan apart, drink his blood, and eat his flesh.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    Chen Fan was also incredibly miserable. Though he resisted the power of the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies, the effort left him drenched in blood.

    Without the strength of his Hegemonic Golden Body, he would have fallen to Yuan Powang¡¯s onught by now.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    He unleashed a deadly halberd light from the Purgatory Divine Halberd, shattering the space around him in an instant.

    Yuan Powang waved his hand. A terrifying palm seal swept across, suppressing heaven and earth, and met Chen Fan¡¯s halberd light violently.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The two collided at once, like a meteorite crashing onto the earth.

    The battle between them escted, eachbatant risking everything.

    Yuan Powang wanted to kill Chen Fan to prove his majesty as a half-step Heavenly Star realm.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan wanted to fight Yuan Powang, perhaps even kill him, to intimidate and deter the snakes on the road ahead.

    If he could defeat Yuan Powang, then the road toward the True Martial City would be smooth.

    After all, if others saw that even a half-step Heavenly Star realm cultivator like Yuan Powang couldn¡¯t match his strength, would they still dare to challenge him?

    That would be seeking death!

 Chapter 674 - He Won!

    <h4>Chapter 674 - He Won!</h4>

    As Chen Fan and Yuan Powang shed, both drenched in blood and tearing the very space around them, the crowd couldn¡¯t help but mutter in awe and fear.

    ¡°Is this really the strength of a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm martial artist?¡±

    ¡°Even a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert can¡¯t gain any advantage over Chen Fan. This is unbelievable!¡±

    ¡°If Yuan Powang fails to defeat Chen Fan, no one will dare to challenge Chen Fan after today.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. If even a half-step Heavenly Star realm fails, only a genuine Heavenly Star realm powerhouse can suppress Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°Once he enters the True Martial Academy, powerhouses will be lining up to take him as their disciple. His martial path is boundless!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength was too mind-blowing.

    The crowd had thought that Chen Fan was done for when Yuan Powang appeared, certain he wouldn''t survive against a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert.

    However, reality gave them a ruthless p in the face.

    Even when his opponent was Yuan Powang, Chen Fan fearlessly fought, drenched in blood with unmatched momentum.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Yuan Powang roared repeatedly in anger, his face twisted with fury as his attacks grew more frenzied and violent.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan remained silent, his gaze unusually cold and sharp.

    He did not cower at all in the face of Yuan Powang¡¯s brutal bombardment. He took them head-on while unleashing terrifying attacks one after another.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The crazy exchange between them set off loud thunderp-like booms, echoing like the wrathful roars of the lord of heaven ready to unleash world-shattering destructions.

    Waves of destructive energy swept out like relentless tides, each one more violent than thest, as if they sought to tear apart the very heavens.

    Both fighters were deadly serious, holding nothing back.

    Their attacks were merciless, trading hit for hit, neither giving an inch.

    Blood painted the sky!

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Their attacks collided fiercely once more, and the two flew back, spurting blood along the way.

    Their injuries were so deep that bones gleamed through torn flesh, painting a scene of utter devastation.

    ¡°Yuan Powang, still thinking you can kill me with just that bit of cultivation? Today, I shall defy the heavens and kill you to send a message to the world. I, Chen Fan, am not to be messed with. If you want my martial arts or treasures, be prepared to bet your life!¡±

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body had been broken through and he was bleeding, his fighting spirit was as high as ever. His aura remained overwhelming, and he grew even fiercer as the battle raged on, leaving the onlookers stunned.

    ¡°Die!¡± With a loud roar, Chen Fan charged toward Yuan Powang with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand, wrapped in an iparably berserk aura. It was clear he wouldn''t stop until Yuan Powangy dead.

    ¡°You little bastard, I¡¯m not afraid of you!¡± Yuan Powang¡¯s gaze was cold.

    He was a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. How could he be intimidated by Chen Fan? Gritting his teeth tightly, he flipped open the Heavenly Book of Seven Fantasies and shed fiercely with Chen Fan once more.

    Giant w, disastrous light.

    Flood dragon, sword qi.

    They held nothing back and used their strongest moves. After all, what was the point of holding back now?

    Terrifying forces tore through the sky, ravaging the heavens and earth. The impact rippled through the void and surged across the nine heavens, sending chills down the spines of onlookers.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The earth-shaking collisions echoed endlessly. Deafening crashes rang out as violent storms swept through the battlefield.

    Fresh wounds tore open on both fighters, blood sttering across the scene, painting a picture of sheer brutality.

    Yet, neither seemed to notice or care about their injuries. They fought with reckless abandon, colliding, separating, then colliding again, caught in an endless cycle.

    <i>Hiss, hiss.</i>

    The nearby crowd watched as the two crossed blows like crazed demons, their backs drenched in cold sweat.

    They fought withplete disregard for their lives, exchanging blow for blow, as if each strike was worth risking their lives.

    ¡°These two are absolute lunatics! Are they not afraid of dragging each other into the grave?¡±

    ¡°That works as well. After they gravely injure one another, perhaps we¡¯ll have a chance to get some easy pickings.¡±

    ¡°Fight, the fiercer it is, the better. The more heavily wounded they are, the better!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement, thrilled by the carnage unfolding before them.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Another bone-shaking collision erupted, shattering the space around them as the air boiled and copsed.

    The two figures also shot backward simultaneously, blood spraying wildly, even spitting out fragments of their shattered organs.

    ¡°<i>Hoo, hoo</i>.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hoo, hoo, hoo</i>.¡±

    Bent over and gasping for air, they red at each other with feral eyes, as if sheer hatred could finish what their weapons could not.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Yuan Powang, that¡¯s all you amount to! Half-step Heavenly Star realm? You¡¯re just a piece of trash!¡±

    Chen Fan slowly straightened his posture, gathering a powerful aura around him once more. His fighting spirit did not diminish at all, like an invincible battle god with an indomitable spirit, boundlessly domineering.

    Half of his body was mangled. Tendons torn, bones shattered¡ªyet his resolve remained unbroken.

    Yuan Powang also slowly stood up straight. An intense, nefarious qi surged from him.

    His situation wasn¡¯t any better than Chen Fan¡¯s, drenched in blood. The majesty of a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert was nowhere to be seen.

    Chen Fan raised the Purgatory Divine Halberd, its de glowing with a fierce, flickering light. With a steely gaze, he uttered a single, chilling word, ¡°Die.¡±

    He shot forth, rushing toward Yuan Powang again.

    ¡°Bastard, I¡¯ll tear you apart!¡± Yuan Powang would never admit defeat. He gathered his strength, his gaze fierce, like a wild beast.

    Immediately, the two collided again.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    ¡°Yuan Powang, you¡¯ll die for sure today!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s roar resounded. A shocking sword qi and a ferocious flood dragon sted out in unison.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream rang out. Yuan Powang¡¯s divine diagram was torn to bits. He was nearly blown up, and his aura declined sharply.

    ¡°Just you wait, bastard. Just you wait! I¡¯ll definitely not let you off!¡±

    Yuan Powang finally felt fear.

    If this continued, he and Chen Fan would leave each other in ruins¡ªor worse, both would die.

    Die? That wasn¡¯t what he wanted.

    He was just half a step away from the Heavenly Star realm. He could lord over the world in the near future. So, why would he want to die? How could he die at the hands of a seventh-level Divine Nascent realm brat? If word of this spread, he would be the disgrace of the Tianwu Continent. An eternal disgrace.

    He fled.

    For the sake of returning stronger.

    He would not forget the shame Chen Fan brought upon him today. He would definitely return. After advancing to the Heavenly Star realm, he would kill Chen Fan to wash away the humiliation he received today.

    Seeing Yuan Powang fleeing, dragging his half-crippled body, Chen Fan did not give chase. He also did not have the ability to pursue him.

    Chen Fan had already reached his limit. If Yuan Powang hadn¡¯t retreated, the ending waiting for the two would have been death

    Fortunately, Yuan Powang couldn¡¯t withstand this kind of pressure and withdrew.

    Chen Fan had won this battle!

 Chapter 675 - Famous Across the Eastern Continent

    <h4>Chapter 675 - Famous Across the Eastern Continent</h4>

    Chen Fan stood tall in the sky, watching Yuan Powang flee in utter disgrace, his gaze fierce and unyielding.

    He had won this battle.

    Even a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert couldn¡¯t defeat him. They suffered severe injuries and ran away in defeat.

    This battle had been a test of willpower.

    The first to falter would be the one to fall.

    Fortunately, Chen Fan was the final victor, not Yuan Powang.

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud. His voice resounded across thends as he said, ¡°Who can fight me?¡±

    The nearby crowd¡¯s minds trembled violently.

    <i>Who could fight Chen Fan?</i>

    Even though Chen Fan appeared miserable, with half his body broken, his aura still surged fiercely, radiating strength that instilled fear in all the onlookers.

    ¡°Yuan Powang was actually... defeated!¡±

    The onlookers¡¯ eyes widened in disbelief at the unexpected result.

    Even during the crazy exchange between Chen Fan and Yuan Powang earlier, they still didn¡¯t think Chen Fan would emerge as the final victor.

    Although this result was surprising, it also made sense.

    ¡°Chen Fan is really a monster!¡±

    ¡°Yuan Powang is pathetic. Half-step Heavenly Star realm cultivation, yet he fled.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not Yuan Powang¡¯s fault. That Chen Fan is too terrifying! Against anyone else, Yuan Powang would have crushed them in a single move. But Chen Fan? The more he fought, the fiercer he became. It¡¯s like he doesn¡¯t fear death, pushing them both to their limits in a battle of endurance.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid Chen Fan¡¯s name will shake the entire eastern continent now.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. With seventh-level cultivation, he defied the heavens and fought the half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. Once this news spreads, he will undoubtedly be a legend across the eastern continent."

    "But should we still... take action?" someone hesitantly asked, eyes darting with uncertainty.

    Both Chen Fan and Yuan Powang were bloodied and battered, each teetering on the brink of copse.

    Although Chen Fan seemed as ferocious as ever, his fighting spirit high, everyone knew that Chen Fan¡¯s injuries were very heavy. Now, he was at his weakest.

    The powerful aura he radiated could very well be a desperate bluff to intimidate his foes.

    For a moment, these people¡¯s eyes lit up.

    <i>Do we make a move?</i>

    Their minds wrestled with the choice.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we make a move to probe him?¡± one suggested.

    "Agreed. Let¡¯s probe him first. If he¡¯s still capable of a fight, we¡¯ll retreat immediately.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then let¡¯s probe him first!¡±

    As they formed their n, their hushedmunication was not lost on Chen Fan. He shot a contemptuous gaze over, and said coldly, ¡°You pathetic losers think you can test me? Stay back, all of you!¡±

    Chen Fan unleashed the final streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi. It cleaved through the air like an ancient sword god carving through the fabric of time itself. It transcended reality, a devastating force descending upon them.

    The crowd¡¯s faces drained of color.

    Loud roars resounded immediately.

    ¡°Quickly run!¡±

    ¡°Run! Damn it!¡±

    Before any of them could even make a move to test him, Chen Fan unleashed a strike that seemed capable of annihting the very world itself.

    A suffocating aura descended upon them, dragging their minds into a hellish abyss of dread and regret.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    The Green Lotus Sword Qi was so terrifying that it even left a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert in tatters. These lesser contenders stood no chance.

    Miserable cries resounded at once.

    These people werepletely powerless to resist. They were swept away by the attack. Severed limbs flew about, and fresh blood spilled like pouring rain.

    ¡°How nice it is now that it¡¯s all cleaned up here!¡± Chen Fan dered, brushing off his palms as he surveyed the carnage before him.

    His gaze swept across his surroundings. There were still some people. Naturally, they couldn¡¯t escape his eyes, but he didn¡¯t care.

    He was sure that killing so many people with one stroke had shocked these people.

    Immediately, Chen Fan moved, turning into a stream of light and disappeared into the horizon.

    As he vanished, several silhouettes emerged from their hiding spots, each releasing a long, relieved sigh, as if they had narrowly escaped death itself.

    ¡°<i>Phew</i>!¡±

    Chen Fan sweeping the crowd earlier with one stroke had truly scared them silly.

    Even though Chen Fan was heavily injured, it was clear that he was a force no one dared to challenge.

    That attack served as intimidation and also a warning.

    ¡°Terrifying! Too terrifying! It¡¯s one thing to have someone like that as an ally, but if he bes an enemy, it would be a true nightmare!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? He even scared away a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. And those guys thought Chen Fan would be easy pickings in his current state, but they ended up getting annihted. <i>Tsk tsk</i>, his methods are as brutal as his title suggests¡ªKilling God.¡±

    ¡°Once word of this battle spreads, I¡¯m afraid no one will dare to provoke Chen Fan again.¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, some people are destined to be looked up to.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    These people chatted for a bit and then left.

    As news of the battle between Chen Fan and Yuan Powang spread, for a time, the name Chen Fan shook the Gen Roadpletely. Soon, it echoed across the other Ancient Trial Roads, sweeping through the entire eastern continent like a tempest.

    This battle catapulted Chen Fan into fame. Hisbat prowess left many in awe, especially considering that the grand half-step Heavenly Star realm Yuan Powang had failed to subdue him.

    Despite the sight of Chen Fan, half his body broken and in a woeful state, no one dared to underestimate him. The sheer power he disyed, sweeping aside those who tried to take advantage of the chaos with a single stroke,manded respect and fear.

    Many people were scared out of their wits after hearing the news.

    Chen Fan¡¯s fierce reputation was earned from all the killings.

    From the Blue Dragon Domain, Chen Fan forged a crimson path, each kill bolstering his strength until he reached the Shattered Star Domain. There, he first slew the Seven entrics of Plum Mountain and fought Yuan Powang, ultimately driving thetter away and solidifying his reputation across the eastern continent.

    While whispers of Chen Fan''s secrets drove many into a frenzy, this battle also acted like a basin of cold water pouring down on those who had Chen Fan in their crosshairs. Lacking overwhelming strength, they could only stifle their greed, burying it deep within.

    Chen Fan had also be the idol of countless people of the younger generation.

    He had forced a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert to flee with only his seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. This kind of strength could be said to be ridiculously strong among the younger generation.

    As news of his exploits spread, the entire eastern continent buzzed with discussions about Chen Fan.

    On the eight Ancient Trial Roads that had opened, even the most renowned apex geniuses spoke his name with a mix of awe and envy, their eyes reflecting a flicker of ambition.

    In a secret ce, the First Dragon Lord gazed into the distance. Icy killing intent shot out of his eyes.

    ¡°Chen Fan... you killed my brothers. This grudge is absolutely irreconcble. I will never let you off!¡±

    The me King, Xiao Yan¡¯s expression becameplicated after hearing this news.

    ¡°He actually scared off a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert...¡±

    The top geniuses on the other ancient roads were all muttering his name.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡±

 Chapter 676 - True Martial City

    <h4>Chapter 676 - True Martial City</h4>

    The news of the battle between Chen Fan and Yuan Powang was like a storm that rippled across the entire eastern continent.

    Chen Fan defeating the Third Dragon Lord, Seventh Young Master, and others had merely stirred a storm on the Gen Road and slightly rippled through neighboring ancient roads. However, histest victory shook the entire eastern continent to its core.

    The geniuses on the eight ancient roads all learned about a peerless genius known as Chen Fan. He defeated a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert with a mere seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation!

    Although it was a pyrrhic victory, it was still a win!

    Chen Fan¡¯s fame soared to unprecedented heights.

    As the Ancient Trial Roads neared their conclusion, a fierce wave ofpetition surged through the eight ancient roads. Geniuses scrambled to leave their mark, desperate to score thest points that would decide their fate.

    It wasmon knowledge that the True Martial Academy¡¯s higher-ups were meticulously observing the events on these Ancient Trial Roads.

    The more a genius managed to shake the heavens and etch their name into the road''s history, the greater the opportunities they would receive once they entered the academy.

    After a hundred years of silence, the eight Ancient Trial Roads fell into a frenzy.

    Countless young geniuses set foot on the Ancient Trial Roads, making their way to the True Martial Academy.

    Now, the trial was in its final stages. Everyone needed to grab thisst opportunity to make a name for themselves.

    Amid this chaos, one name stood out above all others: Chen Fan.

    His fame eclipsed that of every top genius who had initially shaken the Ancient Trial Roads.

    Chen Fan''s journey could only be described as a ruthless march of ughter, carving out a path of blood amidst countless dangers. With every kill, he grew more ferocious and more powerful. Ultimately, he reached a level where not even a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert could gain the upper hand against him.

    No other genius had ever achieved such a feat on the Ancient Trial Roads.

    In a manner of speaking, he had stacked the corpses of his enemies to reach the sky. The stack had countless geniuses and experts, their blood drenching the trial road.

    This battle had elevated Chen Fan to a realm of unparalleled fear, allowing him to traverse the Shattered Star Domain in peace.

    Many people had looks of panic on their faces when they saw Chen Fan and gave way to him as if avoiding a ferocious beast that could obliterate them with a single strike.

    And why wouldn¡¯t they? He wasn¡¯t just a foe¡ªhe was a cmity they couldn¡¯t afford to provoke.

    A monthter, Chen Fan walked out of the Shattered Star Domain and arrived at the True Martial City.

    Even Heavenly Star realm experts would not dare to make a move now.

    The True Martial City was the True Martial Academy¡¯s territory. Making a move here was akin to challenging the True Martial Academy, which was¡ªin turn¡ªakin to sharpening the de for your execution.

    Even though countless eyes burned with desire for Chen Fan''s martial arts secrets and treasures, they could do nothing but swallow their envy.

    The True Martial Academy was located in the mountains. Past the mountain gates, countless spiritual veins crossed paths. Mist and cloud lingered in the air, with violet qi in the surroundings. It was like the realm of an immortal in the mortal world.

    This group of mountains was known as the True Martial Mountain Range. Surrounding its vast peripheries were several cities that rose majestically from the ground, forming an unbroken circle around the entire range.

    Together, these cities, along with the mountain range itself, spanned an area rivaling that of an entire empire.

    All of this was the True Martial Academy¡¯s territory; it did not belong to any nation. It was an autonomous realm, imed the very day the academy was established.

    Every hundred years, one city would awaken from its slumber, bing a bustling gateway to the academy.

    This was the True Martial City, the ce where the academy weed its new disciples. It stood as a behemoth, exuding an aura so overwhelming that it made even powerful cultivators pale inparison.

    A figure stood just outside the True Martial City, sizing up this massive city.

    ¡°What an enormous city. Even the Great Chu Empire¡¯s imperial city is a mere shadow inparison. The difference is like that between a city and a vige. As expected of an overlord-ss force of the eastern continent.¡± Chen Fan sighed emotionally.

    The sheer scale and presence of the True Martial City spoke volumes of the academy''s unfathomable foundation. It wasn''t just a city¡ªit was a divine fortress.

    The True Martial City was enormous. Its city walls alone stood several thousand feet tall, and its width was simply immeasurable; its end could not be seen at all. It was like a dormant, ferocious beast sprawled across thend, emanating an aura that struck fear into all who gazed upon it.

    Numerous powerful figures stood at the city gates. Almost every one of them was in the fifth or sixth-level Divine Nascent realm. There were even seventh or eighth-level top experts, their towering auras bolstered by the presence of ferocious beasts at their side.

    Chen Fan cast a nce over. There were dozens of such powerful experts here, and they were all waiting for something.

    Had this assembly appeared in the Great Chu Empire, they would have been an unstoppable force capable of sweeping through the nation without opposition.

    These people were all very young, all under fifty years of age. They represented the pinnacle of the younger generation¡ªgeniuses who had traversed the Ancient Trial Roads and earned their ce here at the gates of the True Martial Academy.

    Each of them stood as proof of unparalleled strength and talent.

    Chen Fan kept a low profile, joining the ranks of these people indifferently, not catching any attention at all. After him, several people arrived one after another.

    ¡°When exactly will it open? So slow!¡± said a sixth-level Divine Nascent realm expert impatiently. ¡°I¡¯ll smash these damn gates if they don¡¯t let me in soon.¡±

    "By all means, try. But don¡¯t drag us with you if you¡¯re looking to die. Can¡¯t you see those people hanging above the city walls? They tried the same thing, and now they¡¯re nothing but a grim disy, dangling there like dried fish,¡± said the young man next to him with a cold smile.

    He pointed toward the city walls, where several figures hung lifelessly, a chilling reminder of the consequences of rash actions.

    ¡°Could it be that there¡¯s something more to this? Why haven¡¯t they opened the gates yet?¡± asked a puzzled martial artist.

    ¡°Of course. During the year-long recruitment for new disciples, the True Martial City¡¯s city gates only open in the evening every day. If you arrive outside of that time, you¡¯ll simply have to wait. There are still four hours until sunset. Just wait,¡± said someone, evidently knowing the rules of the True Martial City.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t there any other way to enter the city earlier? Why must we wait a whole day for this?¡± said someone, dissatisfied.

    ¡°This is what¡¯s called a show of authority. Who among us isn¡¯t a top genius from our respectivends? Some of us would inevitably be arrogant, believing we can act however we please within the True Martial Academy. This is to keep us in check. You see those people hanging on the city walls? They¡¯re idiots who think they are invincible. In the end, they were captured by the senior brothers from the Law Enforcement Hall and hung there as a warning to the others.

    ¡°Of course, there¡¯s also a way if you don¡¯t wish to wait here obediently. That is to fight your way in from the front. There¡¯s a 108 Wooden Puppets Grand Formation at the main gate. If you can make your way through, then you may enter the city directly.¡±

    The young man continued, ¡°But that Wooden Puppet Grand Formation is no joke. Even a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert might not be able to break through. It¡¯s designed to filter out the true geniuses from the rest.¡±

    ¡°People like us can also be called geniuses, but we¡¯re only ordinary geniuses. Others are on an entirely different level¡ªmonstrous geniuses. In the same cultivation level, they could take on dozens of us. Take that Chen Fan guy, for example. With only seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation, he defeated a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. Can people like us do something like that? We can¡¯t!

    ¡°That 108 Wooden Puppets Grand Formation is prepared for monstrous geniuses like Chen Fan. As for us? We¡¯re nowhere near that level. So, just wait here obediently. It¡¯s only four hours¡ªit¡¯ll pass before you know it.¡±

 Chapter 677 - In Front of the Main Gates

    <h4>Chapter 677 - In Front of the Main Gates</h4>

    The crowd could only look on helplessly after hearing the young man''s words.

    He was absolutely right.

    They were all top geniuses from various domains who had gone through the brutal elimination of the Ancient Trial Road. However, they were still nothingpared to people like Chen Fan and the First Dragon Lord.

    ¡°It looks like we don¡¯t have a choice then. We can only wait.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Even a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm might struggle to break through. Honestly, this disy of authority feels a bit overwhelming."

    ¡°I wonder if anyone broke through the main gates?¡±

    ¡°Of course. The First Dragon Lord and the other apex geniuses have all broken through the Wooden Puppet Grand Formation. I have to admit that these people are really worthy of being called monstrous geniuses. They broke through the formation very easily. In the same cultivation level, they could definitely fight one against ten, or even a hundred.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a little too exaggerated?¡±

    ¡°Not at all! I arrived in the morning and witnessed a monster-ss genius taking on the formation. Do you know who it was?¡±

    ¡°Who? The First Dragon Lord?¡±

    ¡°No, it was the me King, Xiao Yan. He¡¯s currently in the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm, yet he easily broke through the Wooden Puppet Grand Formation. As expected of the man born with a fire spirit body. He¡¯s so strong that it makes no sense.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    At the back, Chen Fan revealed a faint smile.

    This test was rather interesting. It seemed to suggest that you could afford to be arrogant if you had the power, but without it, you''d best stay in line.

    The True Martial Academy had opened the Ancient Trial Roads specifically to find these true monstrous talents.

    Everyone wanted to make a name for themselves on the ancient road, hoping to catch the attention of the True Martial Academy¡¯s higher-ups.

    Yet, only a handful truly managed to earn great fame on the Ancient Trial Road.

    Chen Fan understood that this so-called main gate test was just another filter to uncover any hidden talents.

    <i>I can¡¯t be bothered waiting. I¡¯ll just fight my way through from the main gate.</i>

    Chen Fan slowly walked toward the main gate.

    Suddenly, someone shouted, ¡°Hehe, interesting. I want to see just how impressive this Wooden Puppet Grand Formation is and if it can stop me, Nie Xiao!¡±

    From behind, a man and a tiger rushed forward.

    The man appeared to be in his thirties, tall and sturdy. His face was slightly tanned, his eyebrows raised, and fierce killing intent surged from his eyes, radiating an unshakable confidence that looked down on the world.

    Under him was a white tiger demonic beast, overflowing with ferocity. It stood over twenty feet tall, its body glowing with a brilliant light. Its sharp ws seemed powerful enough to tear through space with a single swipe.

    The crowd murmured among themselves when they heard Nie Xiao''s name, their faces showing a mix of awe and fear.

    ¡°Nie Xiao? I¡¯ve heard of him. He¡¯s a famous figure on the Qian Road. Look at his aura. He recently advanced to the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. I wonder if he could break through the Wooden Puppet Grand Formation.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of which, the Wooden Puppet Grand Formation at the main gate can also be considered a test. One can prove that they are strong enough by breaking through the Wooden Puppet Grand Formation even if they didn¡¯t really earn great fame for themselves on the Ancient Trial Road.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I don¡¯t think he¡¯ll have any trouble breaking through the Wooden Puppet Grand Formation."

    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go take a look.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Nie Xiao might not have achieved the widespread fame of Chen Fan across the eastern continent, but he was still quite renowned. Many had heard of him and knew of his exploits on the ancient road.

    He urged his demonic tiger mount to run toward the main gate. Chen Fan happened to be in front of him, but Nie Xiao showed no intention of stopping at all.

    Instead, he shed a savage grin and sped up.

    The demonic tiger mount rushed forth fiercely, nning to run Chen Fan over.

    The crowd gasped in shock, thinking this person was incredibly unlucky to cross Nie Xiao''s path and wondering if he''d be crushed to death.

    Yet, Chen Fan remained still, showing no sign of fear, allowing Nie Xiao and his tiger to crash into him.

    Seeing Chen Fan standing his ground and ignoring them, Nie Xiao¡¯s expression grew even more vicious.

    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death!¡±

    Nie Xiao and the demonic tiger turned into a streak of divine light and rammed into Chen Fan. Bursts of qi wave swept out one after another.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The crowd sucked in a breath of cold air.

    Nie Xiao disyed sheer hubris atop his tiger, charging forward without concern. He didn¡¯t care who was in his way, urging his demonic tiger to crash into anyone who dared stand before him.

    As the dust and smoke settled, the crowd was stunned. Chen Fan, who should have been crushed to death, was not only still alive but had calmly sidestepped. He pressed his hand down on the white tiger''s forehead, effortlessly halting its terrifying momentum.

    ¡°You¡¯re asking to die!¡± Nie Xiao shouted furiously on the tiger¡¯s back.

    The demonic tiger under him was even more enraged. Lightning shed in its eyes, its front paw seemingly turned into a bolt of lightning and wed toward Chen Fan.

    The tiger''s ws were as sharp as a treasured weapon, and the lightning-infused strike seemed ready to slice Chen Fan in half like a block of tofu.

    The crowd could barely track the demonic tiger''s movements, and fear surged in their hearts.

    So be it if Nie Xiao was powerful, but even its demonic tiger mount was in the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm, far surpassing the abilities of most onlookers.

    Many believed the young man would face certain death.

    What a pity. At such a young age, he''d already reached the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm. He had the potential for a bright future at the True Martial Academy, where he could continue his cultivation. Yet here he was, seemingly destined to meet his end at the city''s main gate.

    Many people felt pity for him.

    After all, everyone who had made it this far to True Martial City had endured countless hardships and battles. However, this young man was about to be killed in front of the True Martial City¡¯s gates. This was simply too unfortunate.

    Even so, no one dared to step in and stop Nie Xiao.

    Not only did theyck the strength to challenge him, but even if they had it, they wouldn¡¯t risk provoking Nie Xiao.

    In a split second, the demonic tiger''s razor-sharp ws were about to slice Chen Fan in half.

    But then, the crowd''s expressions shifted to utter disbelief.

    They saw Chen Fan moving his arm. With a single swift motion, his hand chopped off the demonic tiger''s front paw.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± The demonic tiger immediately let out a miserable cry. The nefarious qi around it erupted violently.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s expression remained unchanged. He did not show a sliver of pity. In an instant, he delivered a palm strike to the demonic tiger''s forehead.

    This eighth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic tiger¡¯s head exploded, blown up by Chen Fan¡¯s palm force.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    ¡°My goodness, that¡¯s an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic tiger. He actually killed it with a single palm strike. Who exactly is this guy? He¡¯s so terrifying!¡±

    This scene shook everyone around him.

    Chen Fan had casually killed an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic tiger with a simple palm strike. If they were in that tiger¡¯s ce, wouldn¡¯t they have met the same fate?

    After all, most of them weren''t even as strong as that demonic tiger.

 Chapter 678 - He is Chen Fan!

    <h4>Chapter 678 - He is Chen Fan!</h4>

    The crowd was shocked.

    The fact that Chen Fan had killed an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic beast with a casual strike stunned everyone.

    Once their shock faded, fear set in.

    Chen Fan had just ughtered Nie Xiao¡¯s mount with a single palm strike, and they knew Nie Xiao would be furious. Many believed that Chen Fan was about to meet a tragic end.

    The crowd murmured among themselves.

    ¡°Who is this guy? He actually killed that tiger with a single palm strike! It¡¯s unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Nie Xiao must be furious now. This guy¡¯s fate is sealed.¡±

    ¡°Do you think Nie Xiao will make him his new mount since he killed the tiger?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s... actually quite possible.¡±

    ¡°But why does he look so familiar? I feel like I¡¯ve seen him somewhere before.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, same.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd found Chen Fan¡¯s appearance somewhat familiar. It felt like they had seen him somewhere, but they just couldn¡¯t put their finger on where.

    Unfortunately, they didn¡¯t have time to dwell on it.

    Suddenly, an overwhelming, furious intent filled the air, sending chills down everyone¡¯s spine and striking fear into their hearts, as if they¡¯d been plunged into an ice cer.

    Everyone realized that Nie Xiao was furious!

    He had built up a fierce reputation for himself on the Qian Road. His most famous feat was annihting an entire bandit group in a single fit of rage, leaving none alive.

    To provide context, that group of bandits had terrorized the Qian Road for over a century and was incredibly powerful.

    During thest opening of the Ancient Trial Road, the bandits wreaked havoc on the Qian Road, leaving countless geniuses dead in their wake.

    This time, they attempted the same bloody spree. However, they crossed paths with Nie Xiao, who single-handedly wiped them out, cementing his fearsome reputation.

    ¡°Bastard, how dare you kill my mount. Such insolence! You deserve a thousand deaths!¡±

    A terrifying killing intent that shook heaven and earth erupted from Nie Xiao. It could make seventh or eighth-level Divine Nascent realm experts freeze in fear.

    To him, that demonic tiger was more than a mere mount¡ªit was his partner, raised from a young age and having apanied him on countless battles. And now, ity lifeless at Chen Fan¡¯s feet, killed with a single strike. Nie Xiao¡¯s rage knew no bounds.

    ¡°You son of a bitch, I¡¯ll tear you apart! Killing my mount is the greatest sin you couldmit!¡± Nie Xiao¡¯s furious roar shook the heavens. An overwhelming killing intent overflowed in all directions.

    Yet, at the center of this storm, Chen Fan remained calm and unbothered. He met Nie Xiao¡¯s fury with an indifferent gaze, one that looked upon him as if he were already dead.

    ¡°Son of a bitch, you still dare to re at me? Go to hell! Not even an immortal can save you now!¡±

    Nie Xiao unleashed a palm strike toward Chen Fan¡¯s head.

    A terrifying force rippled in his palm; it could even turn an ancient divine mountain into rubble.

    ¡°He struck! Nie Xiao made a move!¡±

    ¡°This kid is done for. He has offended Nie Xiao. That¡¯s just asking to die!¡±

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t the senior brothers from the Law Enforcement Hall show up yet?¡±

    ¡°Who knows? In any case, this guy won¡¯t survive. <i>Haaa</i>...¡±

    The crowd could sense the terror behind Nie Xiao''s attack, and their eyes trembled in horror. Even though they weren¡¯t weak themselves, Nie Xiao''s palm strike felt like a death sentence from the Grim Reaper¡ªinescapable and fatal.

    Chen Fan had just killed an eighth-level Divine Nascent realm demonic tiger; still, the people did not think that he could defeat Nie Xiao. Why? Because Nie Xiao was a monster-ss genius.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    A fierce wind surged, and a powerful force swept toward Chen Fan like a tidal wave. An oppressive pressure bore down on him, attempting to confine him and leave him defenseless against the iing strike.

    Nevertheless, Chen Fan¡¯s expression was as indifferent as ever.

    Just as Nie Xiao¡¯s palm descended, Chen Fan moved. With a casual, almost effortless motion, he met the violent palm strike head-on, his light palm cutting through the air.

    There was no earth-shattering explosion¡ªonly a faint, dull thud resonated in the air.

    Suddenly, a blood-curdling scream shattered the silence.

    The moment Nie Xiao¡¯s palm came into contact with Chen Fan¡¯s palm, several booms rang out in an instant. Nie Xiao¡¯s arm exploded, flesh and blood flying everywhere.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Nie Xiao flew out at once. His screams sounded very miserable.

    The people in the surroundings froze at once. They could not believe what they had just witnessed.

    Chen Fan had crippled Nie Xiao. And the terrifying aftermath was still wreaking havoc inside Nie Xiao, drenching him in blood. It was so horrible that one could not bear to look at him.

    Chen Fan killed the tiger with one palm strike; momentster, he heavily injured its master with a single move.

    Nie Xiao had suffered a devastating blow for his aggressive charge.

    He was still acting arrogantly just moments prior, treating people like ants. In the blink of an eye, his side was left with one dead and one injured.

    It was like a bolt from the blue for the onlookers, leaving them stunned. Their minds went nk, and they stood rooted in ce, unable to process what had just happened.

    Suddenly, a furious roar came from the horizon.

    ¡°Who dares to act insolently in the True Martial City!¡±

    A shocking streak of sword qi cut through the air, hurtling toward Chen Fan with killing intent.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly when he saw that the person who had attacked wanted him dead. With an icy expression, he grabbed at the void.

    A Northern Star Reaper Hand swept out, crushing this streak of sword qi.

    ¡°You coward, stop hiding. Show yourself!¡± Chen Fan shouted coldly, his gaze looking on the city walls.

    On the city walls, several disciples with the True Martial Academy¡¯s insignia embroidered on their chests looked at Chen Fan with cold gazes, overflowing with murderous qi. Their eyes flickered with a chilling light that struck fear in others.

    One by one, the True Martial Academy disciples descended from the city walls.

    ¡°It¡¯s me. You have a problem with that?¡±

    Dressed in green robes, he possessed a handsome face, a tall, imposing figure, and an aura of undeniable power. His eyes gleamed with spirit, and his eyebrows were sharp as swords.

    ¡°Do you want to die?¡± Chen Fan said coldly, overflowing with killing intent.

    He could tell from that attack earlier hadn¡¯t been a warning shot¡ªit was a strike meant to kill. Had it been anyone else, they would¡¯ve been dead by now.

    If it wasn¡¯t for his immense strength, he would have be a corpse by now.

    Naturally, Chen Fan would not act politely toward anyone who wanted him dead, even if the other party was a disciple of the True Martial Academy.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯re indeed as arrogant as rumored! But... aren¡¯t you forgetting where you are? This isn¡¯t some backwater area like the Hong Domain or the Great Chu Empire. This is the True Martial City! To threaten the disciples of the Law Enforcement Hall here¡ªsuch insolence! You''vemitted sin upon sin, and now you face a capital offense!¡±

    ¡°What? He is Chen Fan!¡±

    The surrounding crowd gasped, eyes widening and jaws dropping in shock as they processed the revtion.

 Chapter 679 - Came with Unkind Intentions

    <h4>Chapter 679 - Came with Unkind Intentions</h4>

    ¡°What? He is Chen Fan!¡±

    The nearby crowd froze, eyes wide and jaws ck as if struck by lightning upon hearing the green-robed youth¡¯s words.

    ¡°I knew it! He really is Chen Fan. My god, he is the same guy who scared off Yuan Powang!¡±

    ¡°A man¡¯s reputation is like his shadow. No wonder he took down Nie Xiao and his demonic tiger so effortlessly. No other seventh-level Divine Nascent realm martial artist can do that. But if it¡¯s Chen Fan, then that¡¯s exactly what you¡¯d expect.¡±

    ¡°Nie Xiao really didn¡¯t bring his eyes with him, kicking a steel te that is Chen Fan. It¡¯s no wonder his legs got broken.¡±

    ¡°Nie Xiao really miscalcted this time. He thought he was fighting an ordinary seventh-level martial artist, but his opponent was Chen Fan. If he''d known, he wouldn''t have dared to act even if he had ten times his arrogance and guts.¡±

    ¡°But now Chen Fan has gotten into serious trouble. The Law Enforcement Hall senior brother waited until Nie Xiao was down to make his move, and from that strike, it¡¯s clear he wants Chen Fan dead.¡±

    ¡°<i>Shhh</i>, lower your voices! We can¡¯t afford to offend either Chen Fan or the Law Enforcement Hall. Better to step back and see how this ys out.¡±

    ¡°Ah, my little heart. It feels like it¡¯s about to explode.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan. So, he is Chen Fan. No wonder he doesn¡¯t show respect to anyone, not even the senior disciples!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd was all very surprised when they found out he was Chen Fan.

    Though Chen Fan was among thest to arrive at the True Martial City, trailing behind most others on the ancient road, his reputation had long since spread. It wasn¡¯t just well-known; it was downright terrifying.

    After all, few could carve a bloody path through constant dangers, bing stronger with every kill. Yet, Chen Fan had done just that, earning the moniker "Killing God" and striking fear into countless hearts.

    The crowd¡¯s expressions shifted, now a mix of shock, curiosity, and a bit of schadenfreude. But most kept their distance, their faces indifferent.

    Now that Chen Fan was in conflict with the Law Enforcement Hall, things would likely not end well for him.

    Still, they felt it wasn¡¯t their problem. They couldn¡¯t afford to cross either Chen Fan or the Law Enforcement Hall disciples.

    Chen Fan blinked, surprised that the green-robed man recognized him. However, this revtion changed everything.

    These Law Enforcement Hall disciples did not show up when Nie Xiao was rampaging, trying to crush him.

    However, they appeared after he dealt with Nie Xiao, and they knew about him. All this proved that they hade with malicious intent, likely nning this confrontation for some time.

    So, who was behind this?

    He had killed many and offended even more.

    But to orchestrate this ambush and manipte the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s power suggested a formidable background and a deep-seated grudge against him.

    Of the many he had killed, almost all had impressive backgrounds, so he simply had no idea who was behind this.

    ¡°Don¡¯t mess with me if you wish to live,¡± Chen Fan said coldly, his tone dripping with disdain. He had no intention of treating this so-called group of Law Enforcement Hall disciples with any respect.

    The crowd behind him fell into stunned silence, their eyes widening to the point of nearly bulging from their sockets. They could hardly believe what they¡¯d just heard.

    Chen Fan actually dared to say something like that!

    Though everyone here was a standout genius in their own right, these Law Enforcement Hall disciples weren¡¯t just anyone¡ªthey were formidable talents themselves. None of them were to be trifled with.

    Moreover, in any force or sect, the Law Enforcement Hallmanded a special kind of fear.

    That was because the Law Enforcement Hall was in charge of punishments within the sect. They represented authority and could decide one¡¯s life or death. Anyone who fell afoul of the Law Enforcement Hall would be lucky to escape with just their lives, often suffering grievous consequences.

    Thus, every martial artist had a natural fear of the Law Enforcement Hall. They would never sh with the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people easily.

    Yet here stood Chen Fan, casually threatening these very enforcers that others feared like a gue. This was as if a thunderbolt had struck on a clear day, leaving everyone in utter disbelief, their minds reeling.

    How could Chen Fan dare say something like that?

    Where did his confidencee from?

    Even if his name had spread across the eastern continent, and he could defeat a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, how could he have the audacity to act so arrogantly in front of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall?

    Even martial artists with the worst temper would not dare to act insolently in front of the Law Enforcement Hall, especially not in front of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall.

    Who else would dare to act as brazenly as Chen Fan, openly challenging the Law Enforcement Hall disciples and even threatening them? It was an outright act of defiance against their authority.

    Everyone was shocked, including this group of Law Enforcement Hall disciples.

    Instantly, the murderous intent on their faces grew colder and more intense.

    ¡°I¡¯m warning you, you¡¯d better give yourself up and follow me back to the Law Enforcement Hall obediently to receive your punishment. This is the True Martial Academy. You can¡¯t act recklessly here. If you resist, we have the right to kill you on the spot!¡± said the green-robed man coldly.

    The Law Enforcement Hall disciples behind him stepped forward, releasing their terrifying auras, each enveloping Chen Fan like a dark shroud.

    They were all at the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    The fact that those people could enter the True Martial Academy was already a testament of their extraordinary talent. They were all geniuses and were the best among those of the same cultivation level.

    The nearby crowd¡¯s legs trembled under their terrifying auras. Their knees felt weak, and their breathing becamebored, feeling a sense of suffocation. They were all trembling in fear.

    In their eyes, the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people were demons from hell.

    These Law Enforcement Hall disciples were too powerful, far surpassing the crowd. Deep, cold auras swept out from them, shocking heaven and earth, like the apocalypse was descending.

    Leading them, the green-robed man stood at the peak of the ninth level, his gaze sharp like an unsheathed de. He radiated a sense of absolute authority, ready to strike with deadly force at the slightest sign of resistance from Chen Fan.

    They were Law Enforcement Hall disciples. Anyone who dared to defy them would be courting death, and if they fell beneath the Hall¡¯s de, they would simply have died in vain.

    Chen Fan had made a great name for himself by scaring off a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, but the Law Enforcement Hall disciples still did not regard him highly.

    To them, he was still insignificant. Even the Heavenly Star realm disciples of the True Martial Academy would tread carefully around the Law Enforcement Hall, so Chen Fan was nothing to them.

    Once he entered the Law Enforcement Hall, he would be at their mercy.

    The thought of him resisting was almost exciting because it would give the green-robed man the perfect excuse to kill Chen Fan on the spot.

    The nearby crowd kept quiet out of fear, trembling in ce, their gazes filled with terror.

    Was this the strength of the True Martial Academy?

    Just this group of seemingly ordinary Law Enforcement Hall disciples already exuded such overwhelming power, leaving others in fear and awe.

 Chapter 680 - A Heated Verbal Exchange

    <h4>Chapter 680 - A Heated Verbal Exchange</h4>

    Everyone¡¯s gazes fell on Chen Fan.

    The Law Enforcement Hall disciples had demanded that Chen Fan surrender and follow them back to the Law Enforcement Hall to receive his punishment.

    Everyone knew that once he went to the Law Enforcement Hall under any pretext, he''d be at their mercy¡ª even the Killing God Chen Fan would be no exception.

    None of them could predict Chen Fan''s decision.

    Going would be suicidal.

    Refusing would be just as fatal.

    ¡°Why should I go back with you? Even as Law Enforcement Hall disciples, you owe me a clear exnation,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, as calm as the sea.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you dared to fight in the True Martial City. That¡¯s disregarding the city¡¯s rules!¡± answered the green-robed man coldly.

    ¡°I¡¯m new here and unfamiliar with the rules. Moreover, this isn¡¯t exactly the True Martial City, is it? The True Martial City is over there,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Annoyed, a Law Enforcement Hall disciple grabbed at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Enough talk! You¡¯reing with us, whether you like it or not. This isn''t a ce for your sharp tongue!¡±

    A sinister light gleamed in his palm as he grinned wickedly, intending to crush Chen Fan¡¯s bones and drag him away.

    ¡°A trash overestimating his own capabilities!¡± Chen Fan reacted faster,unching a punch at him.

    The disciple clearly hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to resist, let alone strike back. His expression shifted immediately.

    Although he was in the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, Chen Fan had even defeated a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. So, this was nothing.

    Despite being one of the strongest at his level, the disciple knew he stood no chance against Chen Fan.

    He dared to attack because of his status as a Law Enforcement Hall disciple. He had been sure that Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t dare fight him back.

    But his assumption didn¡¯t align with reality, and he hesitated, shrinking back.

    s, it was already toote.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    <i>Crack!</i>

    The sickening sound of breaking bones echoed.

    In an instant, the disciple¡¯s arm was blown apart. Fresh blood spurted from the wound, and he let out miserable howls.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    True primeval exploded under Chen Fan¡¯s feet as he shot toward this Law Enforcement Hall disciple. He sent the disciple flying with a kick, and the air exploded under his feet.

    ¡°Stop!¡± shouted the leading green-robed man in fury.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t even nce his way. His kick was like an ancient divine whip, striking the disciple mercilessly.

    Immediately, the sounds of tendons tearing and bones snapping rang out. The Law Enforcement Hall disciple flew out like a broken bup sack, spewingrge mouthfuls of blood mixed with his organs.

    The Law Enforcement Hall disciples roared, their murderous qi rising to the sky.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    ¡°How dare you strike out at our Law Enforcement Hall disciple!¡± shouted the leading green-robed man, seething. A sharp sword qi erupted from him, slicing through the air with a sharp whistle.

    His face was ashen, overflowing with killing intent.

    Chen Fan had just crippled one of his men right in front of him¡ªa tant insult, ignoring the authority of the Law Enforcement Hall.

    This was humiliation!

    Utter humiliation!

    He had never suffered such humiliation since bing a Law Enforcement Hall disciple of the True Martial Academy.

    People usually cowered in fear when they saw them, terrified of being singled out.

    But now, Chen Fan had crippled one of his men in front of him.

    Rage!

    Rage that could burn the heavens!

    However, Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°You¡¯ve got more nerve than me. You actually tried to murder a new disciple right at the gates of True Martial City¡¯s gates. By attacking me, you¡¯re outright disregarding the academy rules! Do you all think you are the rules of the True Martial Academy?¡±

    Chen Fan turned around to face the geniuses behind him and continued, ¡°Everyone, we¡¯re all top geniuses of our respective nations. We endured all kinds of difficulty and came all the way here, for what?

    ¡°To excel and be disciples of the True Martial Academy! We¡¯re not animals; we¡¯re geniuses.

    ¡°You all saw it earlier. Nie Xiao wanted to run me over, and they stood by. I defended myself, injured him, and now they want me dead. They clearly knew who I was and waited just for me.

    ¡°Today, it¡¯s me. Tomorrow, it could be any one of you.

    ¡°And look at their audacity! They tried to murder me publicly in front of the True Martial City¡¯s gates. I don¡¯t know all the academy¡¯s rules, but I¡¯m pretty sure this isn¡¯t one of them!¡±

    ¡°If people like this can be Law Enforcement Hall disciples and act as they please, how can we feel safe entering the True Martial Academy?

    ¡°What do they count for? They only entered the academy before us, yet they have the nerve to be so arrogant, even trying to murder a new disciple in broad daylight.

    ¡°<i>Tsk tsk</i>, if you ask me, it¡¯s better not to join the True Martial Academy at all. Otherwise, we¡¯ll just end up being bullied by these people, with our lives constantly at risk.¡±

    Many of those who had kept their distance, simply watching the scene, felt uneasy hearing Chen Fan¡¯s words.

    <i>That¡¯s right. What kind of rules is this?</i>

    <i>Can the Law Enforcement Hall disciples kill people at will?</i>

    The real cause of this incident was Nie Xiao trying to kill Chen Fan. Yet, instead of stopping him, the Law Enforcement Hall disciples moved against Chen Fan when he defended himself, intending to kill him. And it was clear they recognized him.

    The crowd weren¡¯t fools. They could see these disciples hade specifically to cause trouble for Chen Fan.

    Originally, this had nothing to do with them. In fact, many had even been gloating over Chen Fan¡¯s predicament, thinking one lesspetitor would benefit them.

    But now that Chen Fan had pointed it out, the situation was different.

    Today it was him. Who was to say it wouldn¡¯t be them tomorrow?

    They hadn¡¯t even wholly joined the True Martial Academy yet. However, before they had even entered the True Martial City¡¯s gates, the Law Enforcement Hall disciples were already murdering them. Was there still any safety for them to speak of?

    Who knew what reason these people woulde up with tomorrow to get rid of them as well!

    Even if this world was one where the strong reigned supreme, in the sect, they couldn¡¯t possibly disregard the rules and openly murder people.

    If that was the case, was this still a sect? What difference was there between this and the bandits outside?

 Chapter 681 - Angry Crowd

    <h4>Chapter 681 - Angry Crowd</h4>

    The crowd felt a sudden sense of urgency and empathy as Chen Fan¡¯s words sank in.

    He was right.

    While they were all top geniuses in their own domains, running rampant back home, this ce was different.

    The holynd for cultivation in the eastern continent, the overlord-ss force of the Tianwu Continent¡ªthe True Martial Academy.

    Here, experts were as numerous as clouds, and geniuses fell like raindrops.

    In this academy, they were just ordinary, likemon folk. And having just joined, they were the weakest.

    Instead of providing security, the Law Enforcement Hall¡ªresponsible for upholding discipline¡ªfelt more like a group of thugs who might turn their des on them at any moment.

    How could a ce like this,cking even basic safety, im to be an academy or an orthodox sect?

    They were all shrewd talents, aware that they were currently at the bottom of the academy¡¯s hierarchy. They were weaklings, so they could only rely on the academy¡¯s rules to protect themselves.

    But if those rules could be trampled on at will, it spelled disaster for them.

    Older, more powerful disciples could find any excuse to kill them, so how could they feel safe then?

    Furthermore, despite being disciples of the Law Enforcement Hall, they were the ones trampling the rules, the rules might as well not exist.

    Chen Fan had as many enemies as a bull¡¯s fur. But they, too, had no shortage of enemies.

    Everyone ughtered their way to make it this far. No one could remember how many people they had offended.

    Although this incident targeted Chen Fan, it served as a wake-up call for everyone¡ªit was about their own interests, too.

    If they allowed the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s members here to kill one of them, they would set a bad precedent for themselves. If they did not support Chen Fan now, who would support them in the future?

    Everyone understood the importance of mutual support. Within moments, the crowd grasped the situation and grew furious.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, what kind of rule is this? Can the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s disciples just arrest and kill people as they wish, trampling on the rules?¡±

    ¡°We demand answers! Where is this written? Are the stronger, older disciples allowed to bully us new recruits however they like? Are we just livestock for them to ughter?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. We need an exnation today, or we might end up dying without knowing why in the future!¡±

    ¡°We can¡¯t let this slide. We need the higher-ups of the True Martial Academy to exin why the Law Enforcement Hall gets to kill as they please!"

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd had agitated looks on their faces, and they chimed in one after another, demanding an exnation from the Law Enforcement Hall and the academy.

    Even the patrolling disciples on the city walls turned their attention toward themotion.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s Qi Cheng? Why is he getting mixed up with a bunch of new recruits?¡±

    ¡°I bet someone paid him off to make trouble for that Chen Fan guy.¡±

    ¡°Hoho, this is getting interesting. Did you guys see what happened earlier? That Chen Fan guy was about to challenge the formation. He¡¯s not someone to mess with. Now that he''s fighting with them, it''s bound to get entertaining. Haha!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? These neers are all proud and untamed. And Chen Fan? He¡¯s even more notorious, nicknamed ¡®Killing God.¡¯ His feats on the ancient road have already spread throughout the eastern continent. Who doesn¡¯t know his name now?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Chen Fan isn''t exactly a saint, but those Law Enforcement Hall guys aren''t any better. They always throw their weight around, relying on their status to act like tyrants. This is interesting. Neither side is willing to give in to the other.¡±

    The patrolling disciples watched with a mix of amusement and indifference, enjoying the spectacle.

    Chen Fan had stirred up a bloody storm on the ancient road and was unyielding, so many were eager to see him subdued.

    At the same time, they also wouldn¡¯t mind seeing the arrogant Law Enforcement Hall disciples get a taste of their own medicine. They held little affection for those thugs-cum-enforcers.

    The crowd was furious, their condemnation growing louder, making the expressions of the Law Enforcement Hall disciples increasingly ugly¡ªespecially their leader, Qi Cheng. His face had turned as dark as a ck hole.

    He had, indeed, been bribed to lie in wait for Chen Fan, expecting this to be an easy trap.

    He had expected this to be an easy matter to resolve. Yet, to his surprise, Chen Fan stirred up the discontent of these new disciples toward the Law Enforcement Hall in just a few words.

    ¡°Chen Fan, what a sharp-tongued little bastard you are. We don¡¯t target people arbitrarily! You injured a fellow disciple in front of the True Martial City¡¯s gates, so we are simply escorting you to the Law Enforcement Hall to receive your punishment!¡± Qi Cheng looked at Chen Fan coldly, gritting his teeth. His gaze was as sharp as a sword, wishing he could cut Chen Fan into a thousand pieces.

    ¡°Injured a fellow disciple? Then why didn¡¯t you show up to stop Nie Xiao when he tried to run me over? Or does Nie Xiao qualify as a ''fellow disciple'' in your eyes, but I don¡¯t? And neither do the rest of us?" Chen Fan retorted calmly.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, who said we wouldn¡¯t have stopped him? We just didn¡¯t see it!¡± Qi Cheng said, trying to cover up.

    But the crowd wasn¡¯t fooled. Qi Cheng''s weak excuse only deepened their anger and suspicion.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you injured a fellow disciple and even hurt a Law Enforcement Hall disciple. That¡¯s resisting arrest. It¡¯s a grave crime. And now, you''re inciting others against the Law Enforcement Hall, making your crime all the more severe!¡± Qi Cheng said coldly, his face ashen.

    No matter what, he had to pin the me on Chen Fan and ce himself on the side of reason.

    Chen Fan smiled coldly and said, ¡°What a joke! Just because you''re from the Law Enforcement Hall, does everything you say automatically bew? Besides, you colluded with others to ambush and murder me¡ªa new disciple. I¡¯d say your crimes are far more severe, enough to sentence you to death ten times over! Tell me, is this how the Law Enforcement Hall performs its duties?"

    ¡°Shut up! Is the Law Enforcement Hall something you can nder at will? Today shall be the day you die!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, how dare you nder the Law Enforcement Hall. You deserve death. Not even ten thousand deaths will wash away your sins!¡±

    The Law Enforcement Hall disciples, unable to hold back any longer, charged toward Chen Fan, a wave of anger propelling them forward.

    They joined forces and sent out a magical that covered a wide area, as if it could even heaven and earth, shrouding toward Chen Fan.

    As long as one was caught in it, they could forget about escaping.

    This artifact, known as the Inescapable Net, was standard issue for Law Enforcement Hall disciples, designed specifically to capture those who hadmitted offenses.

    Facing the angry crowd, they couldn¡¯t upy the side of reason and had to take the offensive. As long as they suppressed and killed Chen Fan, who would still dare to oppose the Law Enforcement Hall for the sake of a dead person?

 Chapter 682 - Killing Law Enforcement Hall Disciples

    <h4>Chapter 682 - Killing Law Enforcement Hall Disciples</h4>

    The Law Enforcement Hall disciples acted immediately, casting the Inescapable Net to trap Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan snorted coldly, unleashing streaks of golden light from his hands that tore through the approaching.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan grabbed the, which burst with divine light. However, it failed to harm him and only sent ripples through him.

    <i>C!</i>

    With a loud tearing noise, Chen Fan tore the Inescapable Net, using his incredibly strong physique.

    Everyone was incredibly shocked, especially these Law Enforcement Hall disciples. After all, the Inescapable Net had never failed, much less been torn apart by sheer force. It was the first time something like this had happened.

    It was nothing short of a miracle¡ªChen Fan was simply too ferocious.

    ¡°What, you want to silence me? Thinking you can keep our mouths shut like that?¡± Chen Fan said coldly, golden light shining on him. His surging aura exploded outward as heunched the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof!</i>

    Several Law Enforcement Hall disciples turned into mists of blood under Chen Fan''s Northern Star Reaper Hand, unable even to scream.

    ¡°Bastard, how dare you kill our Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people!¡±

    Qi Cheng¡¯s eyes and nose twisted in anger as he witnessed Chen Fan''s rampage, wiping out three of his men in an instant. His rage was intense enough to burn the heavens.

    Being from the Law Enforcement Hall, they had always been the ones executing those who resisted arrest. For the first time, their target had killed one of them.

    Qi Cheng never imagined that Chen Fan would act so boldly in front of the Law Enforcement Hall. Not only did he resist arrest, he also dared to murder in public. This was a tant show of disregard toward the Law Enforcement Hall.

    Qi Cheng thought that if they acted now and killed Chen Fan, there¡¯d be no witnesses left to challenge them. After all, who would oppose the Law Enforcement Hall over a dead man? But he didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan to be so ruthless.

    ¡°What? Did you think I would just stand here and let you murder me? What kind of twisted logic is that? Did you think I wouldn¡¯t dare to make a move because you guys are from the Law Enforcement Hall? What a joke! How did you even be a Law Enforcement Hall disciple? I¡¯ll make a big mess today. Let¡¯s see how the True Martial Academy¡¯s higher-ups react!" Chen Fan dered coldly.

    Qi Cheng¡¯s eyes sank when he heard this. His aura erupted, and the power of a peak ninth-level Divine Nascent realm swept out.

    ¡°Bastard, do you know what you are doing? Surrender now, and we might leave your corpse intact. Otherwise, your family will pay the price!¡± Qi Cheng shouted coldly, overflowing with killing intent.

    ¡°Oh, so you n to target my family as well? In that case, I definitely can''t spare any of you!

    Killing intent instantly erupted from Chen Fan, shaking the heavens.

    This was Chen Fan¡¯s reverse scale. Whoever dared to touch his family would die! [1]

    This matter today had thoroughly enraged him.

    They had clearly set up an ambush to kill him, and now they dared to threaten his family. There was no way Chen Fan would let this slide.

    ¡°Hahahaha, what great Law Enforcement Hall disciples!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud. However, the sound of hisughter sent chills down people¡¯s spines, including Qi Cheng and the others.

    It was only then that they realized this matter had gone beyond their control.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, strike together, kill him!¡±

    Unfortunately, it was already toote for Qi Cheng, like an arrow that had been released. At hismand, a sharp aura enveloped him, and he lunged at Chen Fan with his sword.

    He was a genius of the True Martial Academy. And despite only being at the ninth level, hisbat strength wasparable to a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert.

    A terrifying sword light swept out like the resplendent Milky Way. Like a white bolt of lightning, it arrived in front of Chen Fan in a sh. An extremely dangerous aura descended.

    With a flip of his palm, the Purgatory Divine Halberd appeared in Chen Fan¡¯s grasp.

    His aura exploded, resembling that of a god or devil, and he shed fiercely at the iing sword light, cutting the air itself in half.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their attacks collided in an instant. Sparks flew everywhere, like a disy of fireworks.

    Terrifying qi waves instantly swept out, turning into monstrous waves that ravaged heaven and earth.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Qi Cheng spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, as if struck by lightning, and was forced to retreat under the impact of Chen Fan''s attack.

    Even though hisbat strength wasparable to a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, he still wasn¡¯t as strong as Yuan Powang. There was no way he would be a match for Chen Fan.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    After knocking Qi Cheng back, Chen Fan pushed forward imposingly, like an enraged ancient beast. He stomped the ground as he advanced, closing in on Qi Cheng. His killing intent spread like a storm, draining all color from heaven and earth.

    <i>Puchi! Puchi!</i>

    The Law Enforcement Hall disciples blocking Chen Fan¡¯s way failed to withstand even a single blow from him.

    They were even weaker than Qi Cheng; how could they resist Chen Fan¡¯s attack?

    Those blocking Chen Fan were directly split in half at the waist, one stroke for each of them. Their divine nascent flew out, screaming miserably, but Chen Fan did not spare them, crushing thempletely and scattering their souls.

    Qi Cheng¡¯s eyes bulged with rage as he watched Chen Fan ughter more of his subordinates. His aura surged wildly as he roared furiously,

    ¡°Chen Fan, not only did you resist arrest today, but you also publicly murdered Law Enforcement Hall disciples. No one can save you today. You¡¯re done for, you¡¯re dead for sure, you know that!¡±

    ¡°Whether I¡¯ll die is still uncertain, but you will definitely die!¡± Chen Fan said coldly. Killing intent swept out from him as he rushed toward Qi Cheng. No one could stop him. He was like a killing god, causing others to tremble in fear.

    Those onlookers were stunned.

    They never expected Chen Fan would truly dare to kill and do so without hesitation. He wiped out several Law Enforcement Hall disciples in mere moments, piercing through all their defenses.

    ¡°He¡¯s finished, he¡¯s finished. Chen Fan has really pierced through the sky.¡±

    ¡°He actually dared to kill the Law Enforcement Hall disciples. My god, I feel like my heart is about to stop beating.¡±

    ¡°Killing God. He really is the Killing God. There¡¯s no one he doesn¡¯t dare to kill.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd was so shocked that their eyes trembled wildly, and they couldn¡¯t even speak properly.

    Chen Fan mercilessly killed two more disciples. Miserable screams resounded everywhere, causing people¡¯s scalps to turn numb.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    Now, only Qi Cheng remained.

    Qi Cheng was also shocked and roared angrily, ¡°Bastard, you¡¯re finished. You¡¯re done for. You dared to kill our Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people. You¡¯re dead for sure. You can forget about joining the True Martial Academy!¡±

    He did not expect Chen Fan to kill all the Law Enforcement Hall''s disciples he had brought with him in a sh, leaving only him.

    They were all ninth-level Divine Nascent realm experts. None of them were weak. ced in the Tianwu Continent, they were existences who could dominate thends.

    However, in front of Chen Fan, they were like ants that could be easily killed at his whim.

    1. Reverse Scale: It¡¯s said that dragons have a scale on their body facing the opposite direction, and they would hurt whoever touches it. Used as a description for taboo, bottom line. ?

 Chapter 683 - A Heavenly Star Strikes

    <h4>Chapter 683 - A Heavenly Star Strikes</h4>

    ¡°If the True Martial Academy is full of snakes like you, then there''s no point in joining!" Chen Fan snapped coldly.

    If the academy couldn¡¯t give him a proper exnation, he saw no reason to be a part of it.

    Clearly, Qi Cheng wasn¡¯t acting alone, and if they could be so brazen within the academy, his safety would be in constant jeopardy. Chen Fan had no intention of walking into a death trap.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± No one enjoyed being called a snake. Qi Cheng¡¯s expression became ugly, and a powerful aura immediately swept out.

    As a Law Enforcement Hall disciple, Qi Cheng¡¯s strength was formidable. His aura, carrying the might of a half-step Heavenly Star realm, surged toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Starfall Sword Art!¡±

    Qi Cheng struck out with full strength. Sword light descended like a cascade of falling stars.

    A starry glow emerged from Qi Cheng. Sword qi swept through thends, covering heaven and earth, stabbing toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan wielded the Purgatory Divine Halberd with a fluid motion. The fearsome halberd light tore through the air, disrupting the atmosphere.

    As the starry sword lights approached, they shattered against the force of Chen Fan''s halberd, each swing causing thunderous explosions.

    Qi Cheng unleashed everything he had. Hisbat power rivaled a half-step Heavenly Star realm, and his Starfall Sword Art was both profound and unpredictable, boasting tremendous strength. It was undoubtedly an upper earth-tier technique.

    Countless starry sword lights filled the sky, as if splitting heaven and earth apart, descending with the power to devastate all in their path.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Any other seventh or even eighth level Divine Nascent realm expert would¡¯ve been sliced in half instantly, blood spilling on the spot.

    But who was Chen Fan?

    He had carved out a bloody path on the Gen Road, paving it with the corpses of countless geniuses. Not even a genuine half-step Heavenly Star realm expert could bring Chen Fan down; instead, they had retreated in fear of his relentless, fearless struggle. The idea that Qi Cheng could kill Chen Fan was nothing short of delusional.

    The power behind both attacks was immense. In any ordinary ce, their sh would have shattered the vacuum itself.

    However, Chen Fan sensed that the space here was exceptionally solidified and stable. Divine Nascent realm martial artists couldn''t even dream of tearing it apart.

    Even so, the ripples from the two¡¯s exchanges were unusually terrifying, vaporizing vast areas of air. The earth shook and the mountains trembled, as if an apocalypse had arrived, sending chills through anyone watching.

    The surrounding rookie martial artists, as well as the veteran disciples patrolling the city walls, were left in stunned silence at the sight.

    Everything Chen Fan had done since arriving here had been unprecedented, be it resisting arrest sessfully or killing Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people. Moreover, he was just as strong as the rumors suggested, proving that only a Heavenly Star realm expert could bring him down.

    The older disciples patrolling the city walls watched in disbelief as Chen Fan effortlessly suppressed Qi Cheng, whispering among themselves in shock.

    ¡°Scary, too scary!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Chen Fan is indeed powerful. I thought the rumors about Chen Fan were exaggerated, but it turns out they were spot on."

    ¡°Although Qi Cheng is only at the peak of the ninth level, he is strong as a half-step Heavenly Star realm if he goes all out. Yet, he¡¯s fallen into a disadvantage.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Although Chen Fan¡¯s fame had spread far and wide, even within the True Martial Academy, this was their first time witnessing his power firsthand, and he lived up to every bit of his fame.

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura was overwhelming, and his fighting spirit was through the roof.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Deadly halberd lights ravaged heaven and earth, weaving into a of death that enveloped Qi Cheng, obliterating all of his starry sword lights.

    Chen Fan had suppressed Qi Cheng, confining his opponent¡¯s sword light within a mere ten-foot radius. Qi Cheng couldn''tunch an attack at all, his frustration apparent.

    Everyone could tell that Chen Fan had already seized an overwhelming advantage.

    On several asions, Chen Fan¡¯s bombardment nearly disemboweled Qi Cheng. He was drenched in blood, hisplexion incredibly pale. A look of horror could be seen in his eyes.

    Would he really be cut down by Chen Fan today?

    Chen Fan remained expressionless, his gaze icy and brimming with killing intent.

    The other side had taken bribes to plot against him and murder him without cause. But Chen Fan wasn¡¯t someone to cross lightly. Even though Qi Cheng and his group were from the Law Enforcement Hall, he didn¡¯t hesitate to strike them down.

    Moreover, Qi Cheng even dared to threaten him with his family. This had already crossed his bottom line.

    Chen Fan sent a Great Brahma Sacred Palm descending from the sky. The gigantic golden palm pressed down like the palm of an ancient Buddha from Nirvana, causing the air to copse, and an area of space was about to be shattered. Qi Cheng was simply powerless to resist.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Qi Cheng spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood wildly. The sounds of tendons breaking and bones snapping rang out from him. It seemed as if all his bones were about to be broken.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    ¡°How is this possible, Qi Cheng couldn¡¯t even resist thatst attack!¡±

    ¡°As expected of the Killing God who ughtered his way here. From the looks of it, another ferocious figure has entered the academy.¡±

    ¡°Although Qi Cheng¡¯s group vited the rules first, Chen Fan killed the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people. I¡¯m afraid the Law Enforcement Hall wouldn¡¯t let this matter pass just like this, and his days ahead would be tough.¡±

    "Exactly. The Law Enforcement Hall never listens to reason. Chen Fan¡¯s just stirred up a ho''s nest, and I bet an expert from the hall is already on their way."

    "These neers are getting scarier each year, refusing to suffer even the slightest offense. Their pride is sky-high, and they¡¯repletely untamed."

    ¡°Hehe, this isn¡¯t just some slight grievance. If it were me, I''d have ughtered Qi Cheng too. But to attack right in front of True Martial City''s gates? His courage knows no limits."

    ¡°There¡¯s always a few rebellious ones during each recruitment. This iteration is no different, but they always end up dying horribly. Only the strongest make it through."

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, you will regret it if you dare to kill me!¡± Qi Cheng¡¯s gaze was ice cold and grim, staring at Chen Fan. A hint of panic could be seen in his eyes. The current situation was utterly out of his expectations.

    Chen Fan had thoroughly crushed his haughtiness, beaten to the point of being powerless to fight back. The vast difference in strength between the two was simply unbridgeable.

    He was already at the peak of the ninth level, but Chen Fan was only in the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm.

    If someone like Chen Fan continued to grow, he would be a significant threat. A sinister glint appeared in Qi Cheng''s eyes as he silently concocted a scheme.

    Chen Fan looked at Qi Cheng icily. Although he couldn''t tell what Qi Cheng was plotting, he knew it wasn¡¯t anything good.

    Naturally, he would not show mercy to someone who wanted to kill him.

    ¡°Regret? You won¡¯t live to see it!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s killing intent surged, shrouding Qi Cheng, making thetter feel as if the grim reaper had descended.

    ¡°If you want to kill me, then you need to be prepared to be killed. Chasing after some benefits made you rush headfirst into being cannon fodder. Today, I¡¯ll grant you your wish!"

    Chen Fan directly sent out a palm strike, crushing the three thousand great realms. A gigantic golden hand, which was like the Wuzhi Mountain, sted towards Qi Cheng. [1]

    A thunderous shout suddenly erupted from within True Martial City, shaking the heavens and the earth. The space rippled like waves from the sheer force of the voice, and an overwhelming aura swept over everything.

    ¡°Stop!¡±

    That was the aura of a Heavenly Star realm!

    1. Wuzhi Mountain is the highest mountain in Hainan, China, towering 1,840 meters above the center of Hainan Ind. ?

 Chapter 684 - Taking on a Heavenly Star Realm

    <h4>Chapter 684 - Taking on a Heavenly Star Realm</h4>

    ¡°Regret? You won¡¯t live to feel it!¡± Chen Fan attacked to kill.

    A gigantic golden palm sted toward Qi Cheng like the Wuzhi Mountain.

    The momentum simply left people in despair, and Qi Cheng finally grew anxious.

    He finally remembered that he was fighting Chen Fan, aka the Killing God.

    He even ughtered the other Law Enforcement Hall disciples and seemed to have given up on enrolling in the True Martial Academy. Would he still care about the consequences of killing him?

    Law Enforcement Hall disciples were used to acting arrogantly; unsurprisingly, they weren¡¯t the most popr bunch. The other disciples knew Qi Cheng was in danger; despite being on the city walls, none of them came to save him.

    ¡°Stop, Chen Fan, stop now! As long as you let me go, I¡¯ll never find trouble with you again in the future. I¡¯ll even give you a lot of benefits!¡±

    Terrified, Qi Cheng began to beg Chen Fan for mercy.

    ¡°Do you think I¡¯ll let you go? I believe that if you don¡¯t remove the weeds from their roots, they¡¯ll only grow again when the spring wind blows! I will never spare anyone who wants me dead, so... Go repent in hell!¡± His icy voice rang out. The gigantic golden palm sted toward him.

    Suddenly, an angry shout that shook heaven and earth came out from within the True Martial City.

    ¡°Stop!¡±

    The entire space rippled withyers of waves at this roar, turning into monstrous waves that swept out. An aura that made heaven and earth tremble rose to the sky simultaneously.

    This aura was so powerful that it far surpassed the limits of the Divine Nascent realm. The immense power of will erupted in space.

    This was a genuine Heavenly Star realm expert.

    Sensing this terrifying aura, Qi Chengtched onto what seemed like his lifeline and screamed, ¡°Captain, save me, save me!¡±

    He knew exactly who had arrived¡ªhis Law Enforcement Hall squad captain, a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    The reason so many disciples feared the Law Enforcement Hall wasn¡¯t just because they enforced the academy¡¯s rules but also due to their overwhelming power. After all, even a squad captain was a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression changed drastically, but he did not panic. Instead, his eyes shone with an even fiercer and colder luster, showing no intention of stopping. He was determined to take down Qi Cheng. No one could stop him.

    ¡°How dare you?! I said stop!¡±

    The Heavenly Star realm expert roared in fury as he saw Chen Fan refusing to stop his attack. From a great distance, he grabbed at the air. A terrifying hand that covered the sky appeared above Chen Fan, smashing down ruthlessly.

    Qi Chengughed out loud maniacally, his expression savage, looking iparably arrogant.

    ¡°Hahahaha, bastard, you¡¯re finished! Finished, you know that! You dared to kill our Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s disciples; that¡¯s a heinous crime worthy of death. Not even the immortals can save you!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I¡¯ll make sure to kill you before I die!¡± Chen Fan ignored the massive hand descending from above and let his Great Brahma Sacred Palm strike without pause.

    ¡°No!¡± Qi Cheng roared fiercely in despair, stunned that Chen Fan still aimed to kill him despite the captain¡¯s arrival.

    The gigantic golden palm smashed down. The earth trembled violently, and Qi Cheng¡¯s roar of despair came to an abrupt stop.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    That Heavenly Star realm expert was enraged at the sight.

    ¡°Audacious, you¡¯re too audacious. Die for me!¡±

    Multiple streams of terrifying aura surged from afar, forming giant hands that smashed down with brutal force. The space erupted violently, rippling fiercely.

    Chen Fan felt a deadly aura trying to envelop him.

    He felt like an ant on the ground, facing a crushing blow that he stood no chance of resisting¡ªdeath seemed imminent.

    This was the attack of a genuine Heavenly Star realm expert, far more powerful than anything Yuan Powang had ever disyed. Even a casual flick from this force could have ended Yuan Powang in an instant.

    But Chen Fan wasn''t one to simply wait for death. He roared in defiance, shattering the oppressive force around him. He channeled his cultivation to the limit, his true primeval surging in his meridians like the Yangtze River.

    ¡°<i>Roar!</i> Want to kill me? You¡¯re not worthy!¡±

    ¡°sh!¡±

    A shocking sword qi erupted, streaking across the sky and breaking through the space. It shed toward the enormous palm smashing down at him.

    The attack crossed the sky, causing people to tremble.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    The Green Lotus Sword Qi collided ferociously with the enormous palm, triggering an explosion of fierce energy. This Green Lotus Sword Qi, at the ninthyer, was immensely powerful and razor-sharp.

    The two forces shed violently in mid-air, sparks flying and thunderous explosions echoing.

    The crowd was petrified at the sight.

    Chen Fan had dared to challenge a Heavenly Star realm expert!

    However, that was an attack from a Heavenly Star realm expert, after all. Even though the Green Lotus Sword Qi was incredibly powerful, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level was still a little too low.

    After colliding hundreds, if not over a thousand times, the Green Lotus Sword Qi crumbled apart.

    Yet, the enormous palm seal of the Heavenly Star realm expert was also riddled with holes, a testament to the terrifying power of Chen Fan¡¯s sword qi.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    The crowd¡¯s souls were shaken when they saw the holes in the enormous palm seal sent out by a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    The enormous palm continued pressing downward, but its momentum had weakened. Still, its remaining power was formidable enough to threaten a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, a savage flood dragon coiled around Chen Fan, roaring furiously at the sky. With a surge of energy, it transformed into a flood dragon seal and charged at the damaged palm.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    It was like a meteor crashing into earth. A deafening explosion rang out.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The solidified space cracked open from the impact. Jagged ck ripples appeared; those were spatial cracks.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    A terrifying shockwave storm descended like the Milky Way from above the nine heavens, bombarding Chen Fan, making his protective true primeval explode violently.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Chen Fan instantly spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood. Hisplexion turned pale, his feet left the ground, and he flew back like a broken bup sack. Then, he crashed onto the ground and spewed out another mouthful of blood.

    Soon, the terrifying collision in the sky subsided.

    The flood dragon seal dissipated, and that enormous palm seal riddled with holes also cracked, breaking apart in the end, dissipating without a trace.

    This scene bbergasted the onlooking crowd, sucking in a breath of cold air.

    Chen Fan had actually broken apart the attack of a Heavenly Star realm expert. It was too unbelievable!

    Numerous eyes fixed on Chen Fan, their pupils trembling violently, reflecting the turmoil in their hearts at that moment.

    How could there be such a monstrous person in this world? Here was a person at the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm daring to resist a Heavenly Star realm expert!

    This was nothing short of extraordinary and unprecedented!

    Just then, the Heavenly Star realm expert finally arrived.

 Chapter 685 - Jian Qi

    <h4>Chapter 685 - Jian Qi</h4>

    ¡°How is this possible? This cannot be real!¡±

    ¡°My god, Chen Fan actually withstood the attack of a Heavenly Star realm expert!¡±

    ¡°This is too unbelievable. I can¡¯t believe this at all. How is this possible?¡±

    ¡°A miracle. Even a Heavenly Star realm expert¡¯s attack could not kill Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless people mored, struggling to believe their eyes.

    Even though this attack was only a strike from a great distance, it was enough to shake the crowd.

    The Heavenly Star realm and the Divine Nascent realm were on entirely different levels¡ªa gap as vast as a heavenly chasm.

    Chen Fan stood no chance against a Heavenly Star realm expert, but his ability to withstand a strike with just his seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation was enough to be etched into the annals of True Martial Academy¡¯s history.

    Finally, the Heavenly Star realm expert arrived. He was dressed in yellow, looking no older than his thirties, yet he radiated a terrifying aura that distorted the surrounding space.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    The patrolling disciples on top of the city walls immediately recognized him¡ªLaw Enforcement Hall¡¯s Kang Hong.

    ¡°It¡¯s Kang Hong!¡±

    Kang Hong¡¯s expression was very ugly. As he gazed at Qi Cheng, now nothing more than a puddle of flesh, fury zed in his eyes.

    ¡°Brat, how very bold of you. I told you to stop, yet you dared to kill our Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s disciple. You deserve a thousand deaths for your sins!¡±

    A suffocating Heavenly Star realm pressure erupted from Kang Hong, making countless people tremble in fear.

    This was a genuine Heavenly Star realm expert¡ªan existence capable of rampaging across the entire Tianwu Continent.

    In the Hong Domain, a Heavenly Star realm expert was a local ruler, an overlord-ss existence who could control the entire domain.

    Chen Fan stood up from the ground. He wiped away the trace of blood at the corners of his lips and said coldly, ¡°He wanted to kill me, so I, naturally, had to protect myself. Or are we plebs below your Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s disciples? Rabble that you people can just murder at your whim?¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡± Kang Hong shouted. The shockwave caused Chen Fan to let out a groan, and the qi and blood inside him to tumble restlessly. Fresh blood seeped out of the corners of his lips once more.

    ¡°You sharp-tongued brat, Qi Cheng only asked you to go to the Law Enforcement Hall to be punished for your sins. If you had done nothing wrong, you would have been released. But not only did you refuse to go, but you also massacred them like a maniac! Your crimes are terrible, so I must kill you right here!¡±

    Icy killing intent shot out from Kang Hong¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Hoho, the Law Enforcement Hall really is a den of snakes and rats. With scum like you in the True Martial Academy, no wonder the academy has declined in recent years, showing signs of being overtaken by other forces,¡± said Chen Fan, sneering coldly.

    ¡°Audacious!¡± The statement only angered Kang Hong further. He immediately sent out a palm strike, wanting to kill Chen Fan on the spot.

    Just as Kang Hong was about to kill Chen Fan, a streak of sword light came flying from the sky. Calling it just a streak didn''t do it justice.

    <i>Puchi, puchi, puchi...</i>

    The sword qi unraveled into threads, like lightning capable of annihting both ghosts and gods.

    It arrived without warning and moved inplete silence.

    In an instant, Kang Hong¡¯s attack shattered, dissolving into green smoke.

    ¡°Who is it?¡± Kang Hong¡¯s cultivation immediately erupted, and he turned around, now fully alert and no longer focused on Chen Fan.

    This sudden turn of events shocked everyone. They had no idea what had just happened.

    Kang Hong had been close to killing Chen Fan; the next moment, his attack was broken apart. The crowd couldn''t make sense of the situation; everything had happened too fast.

    As Kang Hong¡¯s words echoed, a cold, indifferent voice answered. A man dressed in green stepped forward.

    ¡°Me.¡±

    The man in green stood empty-handed, without a sword. He looked quite young, appearing to be in his twenties. However, appearances meant little for cultivators.

    As soon as he appeared, the air in heaven and earth immediately whistled, turning into sword qi, swirling around him.

    With him at the center, a stream of fierce sword qi rose to the sky, like a heavenly sword that towered over all, forcing all swords into submission.

    ¡°Jian Qi!¡± Kang Hong¡¯s expression changed, but he roared furiously, ¡°What is the meaning of this? I¡¯m a disciple of the Law Enforcement Hall and am punishing this little bastard ording to the True Martial Academy¡¯s rules. How dare you obstruct me, what guts you have!¡±

    ¡°Law Enforcement Hall disciple?¡± This green-clothed man, Jian Qi, showed no trace of fear. Instead, he revealed a deep look of disdain and said, ¡°So what if I stopped you? Chen Fan is our Peerless Peak¡¯s disciple. How dare you Law Enforcement Hall disciples brazenly try to intercept and kill him. Do you really think your Law Enforcement Hall can do whatever it wants and keep the truth hidden?¡±

    ¡°Impossible, this little bastard hasn¡¯t even entered the True Martial City¡¯s gates. How could he be a member of your Peerless Peak!¡± Kang Hong roared furiously.

    Jian Qi said indifferently, ¡°Since when do you have the right to question how Peerless Peak recruits its disciples? I can¡¯t be bothered talking nonsense with you. Qi Cheng and the others don¡¯t deserve any pity, but they were from your Law Enforcement Hall, and they tried to intercept and kill our Peerless Peak disciple. You owe me an exnation!¡±

    A terrifying aura surged from Jian Qi.

    The surrounding sword qi buzzed, as if ready to strike Kang Hong if his exnation didn''t satisfy Jian Qi.

    ¡°Exnation?¡± Kang Hong¡¯s eyes flickered and said, ¡°Chen Fan injured a new disciple in public. That¡¯s a vition of the sect¡¯s rules. Qi Cheng and the others wanted to capture him and bring him to the Law Enforcement Hall to call for his punishment. Even if he¡¯s your Peerless Peak¡¯s disciple, that shouldn¡¯t be a prob¡ª¡±

    Interrupting him, Jian Qi pointed with two fingers together and swiped out, sending a streak of sword qi shing at Kang Hong.

    ¡°You...¡± Kang Hong¡¯s hair stood on end when he saw Jian Qi striking out at him without a word. A streak of terrifying sword qi shot toward him. His muscles tensed, sensing the grim reaper¡¯s aura.

    A terrifying aura erupted from Kang Hong, trying to block Jian Qi¡¯s attack, but...

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    A miserable scream came from Kang Hong¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    His whole arm flew out. Fresh blood spurted like a fountain from the wound; it didn¡¯t seem like it would stop bleeding anytime soon.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take your arm as your exnation. If you feel indignant about it, then go to the Law Enforcement Hall and find stronger people toe to our Peerless Peak. I¡¯ll see if your Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people dare toe to our Peerless Peak to throw a fit!¡± Jian Qi spat out those icy words, disying his dominance to the fullest,pletely disregarding the Law Enforcement Hall.

 Chapter 686 - Peerless Peak

    <h4>Chapter 686 - Peerless Peak</h4>

    ¡°Ah!¡± screamed Kang Hong miserably. His wail echoed in the area.

    Everyone gaped in shock as the arm flew through the air, instantly shredded by the sword qi. Any hope Kang Hong had of reattaching it vanished, sending shivers down the crowd''s spines.

    It was too terrifying!

    Kang Hong, a Heavenly Star realm expert, had his arm severed in a sh,pletely powerless to resist. Exactly how powerful was this green-clothed man known as Jian Qi?

    The crowd couldn¡¯t sense Jian Qi¡¯s cultivation from his aura. He appeared ordinary, yet slicing off a Heavenly Star realm expert¡¯s arm with a casual strike was far beyond a regr person¡¯s means.

    Chen Fan¡¯s irises also contracted, flickering with interest as he studied Jian Qi.

    He knew that Jian Qi should be a pure sword cultivator who¡¯d reached a level where his sword moved with his thoughts. He could use anything in heaven and earth as a sword, transforming the intangible into reality.

    ¡°Ahhh, Jian Qi, how dare you chop off my arm!¡± Kang Hong let out an angry roar, his voice echoing with rage that could reach the heavens.

    ¡°What about it? If you feel indignant, find someone stronger from the Law Enforcement Hall and bring them to Peerless Peak. I¡¯d love to see if your Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people dare toe to our Peerless Peak to throw a fit!¡±

    Jian Qi showed absolute disregard for the Law Enforcement Hall, disying his dominance without restraint.

    ¡°You...¡± Kang Hong was so angry he couldn¡¯t even form a proper response.

    ¡°What? Say one more word, and it won¡¯t just be your arm¡ªI¡¯ll take your worthless life too!¡± Icy words came out of Jian Qi''s mouth, freezing everything. The entire ce fell silent, keeping quiet out of fear. Even Kang Hong couldn¡¯t help but shiver.

    He felt the unmistakable killing intent radiating from Jian Qi and knew¡ªwithout a doubt¡ªthat if he dared speak again, he would die.

    The people from the Peerless Peak were lunatics. Not even their Law Enforcement Hall could provoke them easily.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Jian Qi turned to Chen Fan, and a hint of warmth appeared on his face, a stark contrast to the cold killing intent he¡¯d shown earlier. He beckoned, ¡°Junior Brother, I¡¯m Jian Qi. Senior Sister sent me to receive you.¡±

    ¡°Jian Qi? Peerless Peak? Sent by his senior sister?¡± Chen Fan was puzzled.

    He had just arrived at True Martial City and hadn¡¯t even stepped through its gates. How did he suddenly be someone¡¯s junior brother?

    ¡°Chen Fan, your name is Chen Fan, right?¡± Jian Qi said, ¡°You slew numerous experts in the ruins of the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm and obtained a heaven-tier martial art. You then killed the Sixth Young Master and the Fifth Young Master of the Heaven Supervisory Bureau in session, along with the Dragon God Army¡¯s Second Dragon Lord. You fought your way through, pursued by the masses, cutting a bloody path. Even the half-step Heavenly Star realm expert Yuan Powang ended up retreating in fear.

    ¡°You¡¯re in the seventh-level Divine Nascent realm. Our Peerless Peak heard about it long ago. Thus, my master, the Peak Master of Peerless Peak, sent out a decree to take you in as his disciple before another Peak Master could snatch you away. We couldn¡¯t afford to lose such a genius.

    ¡°We didn¡¯t expect the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people to dare plot against you. They¡¯re truly unforgivable. You did nothing wrong. Peerless Peak has always stood against the world, unmatched by anyone, and even the Law Enforcement Hall usually steers clear of us. For them to scheme against you is outrageous. You did well to kill them¡ªexactly what we¡¯d expect from a disciple of Peerless Peak.¡±

    The twomunicated with their divine wills, bringing Chen Fan up to speed on what had happened.

    It seemed the bloody storm he had set off on the Gen Road had long since caught the attention of the True Martial Academy¡¯s higher-ups, prompting the Peerless Peak¡¯s Peak Master to take him in as a disciple.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go and report directly to Peerless Peak,¡± Jian Qi said.

    Chen Fan replied, ¡°But I haven¡¯t broken through the formation.¡±

    Jian Qi chuckled, ¡°Break through what formation? Master personally chose you as his disciple. You don¡¯t have to waste your time on that rubbish formation. That would only tarnish our reputation. We¡¯ll head straight to Peerless Peak.¡±

    Chen Fan did not say anything further after hearing what Jian Qi said.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh!</i>

    The two leaped into the air, soaring over True Martial City as the crowd watched, disappearing from sight. None dared to stand in their way.

    Seeing Jian Qi and Chen Fan leaving, Kang Hong could no longer hold back and roared out angrily. Nefarious qi erupted from him, shaking the heavens, making people terrified.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    After Kang Hong had also left, the crowd broke out into a mor.

    ¡°Heavens, what exactly is going on here?¡±

    ¡°Peerless Peak? They say only a few belong to that peak, but every one of them is incredibly powerful and domineering. Even the Law Enforcement Hall avoids them.¡±

    ¡°As expected of the Peerless Peak. Truly ¡®peerless,¡¯ they stand unmatched under the heavens, their dominance unchallenged. Not even the Law Enforcement Hall can faze them. And they consider those trying to break through the formation as nothing but losers. <i>Tsk tsk</i>...¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan really is blessed with heavenly luck. He¡¯s been epted as a Peerless Peak disciple just like that. When we enter the academy, we have to go through each peak¡¯s test, and we don''t even get to choose.¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>,parison is the thief of joy. But you have to admit, Chen Fan deserves it. Even an attack from a Heavenly Star realm like Kang Hong could not kill him. It goes to show his terrifying strength.¡±

    ¡°But do you think Kang Hong will really go to the Law Enforcement Hall to find someone stronger to go after Peerless Peak?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    True Martial City was enormous, yet ity within the True Martial Mountain Range, serving as the gate to the True Martial Academy, with Peerless Peak rising above it.

    Led by Jian Qi, Chen Fan flew over the skies of the True Martial City.

    ¡°Junior Brother, when Master heard about you, he was determined to take you in as a disciple. I am not tooting my own horn, but within the True Martial Academy, Peerless Peak stands as the strongest inbat strength.¡±

    ¡°Of course, there are many peaks in the True Martial Academy. Aside from our Peerless Peak, there¡¯s also the Heavenly Bastion Peak, Stargazer Peak, Thunder Prison Peak, Limitless Sky Peak, Unsheathed Peak, Great Cliff Peak, Lustrous Peak, and Sky Origin Peak that can match up to us. These peaks all want to recruit supreme geniuses. Junior Brother has also entered their eyes.¡±

    Jian Qi spoke confidently and enthusiastically, sharing a wealth of information about the True Martial Academy with Chen Fan. He acted familiar as if he¡¯d been Chen Fan¡¯s fellow disciple for years.

    Chen Fan marveled in his heart; he''d never seen anyone recruit disciples in this manner.

    But seeing Jian Qi¡¯s ability first hand¡ªsevering Kang Hong¡¯s arm with just a flick of his fingers¡ªit was clear how terrifyingly powerful he was. Jian Qi was no ordinary cultivator.

    Chen Fan¡¯s curiosity about Peerless Peak grew. He wanted to uncover the profound mysteries it held within the True Martial Academy.

    Suddenly, the ancient space ahead rippled. It revealed a structure resembling an endless heavenly pce, its limits invisible, like an ethereal mirage.

    However, Chen Fan knew that this was all real.

    Jian Qi pointed at a tall peak that pierced the sky in the distance and said, ¡°Junior Brother, the Peerless Peak is just ahead.¡±

    Chen Fan gazed over. He discovered that although this sky-piercing peak was also very majestic and magnificent whenpared to the other peaks, it had very few buildings on it. They were barely visible, unlike the other peaks that gleamed with lights, ornate structures, and constant activity.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 687 - Everyoneâ€™s a Monster

    <h4>Chapter 687 - Everyone¡¯s a Monster</h4>

    With a shake of his hand, Jian Qi made a talisman appear in his hand. He directly entered the Peerless Peak, bringing Chen Fan along, andnded in front of a pce.

    This pce was built from strange stones. They were mottled and looked ancient. There were bloodstains everywhere, and it seemed like many gods and devils had died to form these stones.

    An iparably overwhelming aura emanated from the pce.

    Jian Qinded in front of the pce¡¯s za and called out loudly, ¡°Senior Brother, Senior Sister, I¡¯ve brought Chen Fan here.¡±

    ¡°What? Junior Brother, you finally brought him back after all this time.¡± A woman in red makeup, holding a scroll, stepped out.

    She carried a calm, elegant demeanor with an air of schrly wisdom. Though she revealed no sign of cultivation, Chen Fan felt a profound aura from her, as if embodying the boundless concept ofwlessness.

    ¡°She is our third senior sister, Duanmu Lingxing. Our Peerless Peak has the fewest members across the various peaks. Including you and Teacher, there are only nine of us. I¡¯m the youngest, but from now on, you¡¯ll be our eighth junior brother!¡± Heughed, ¡°Finally, someone younger than me!¡±

    ¡°What? The Peerless Peak only has nine people? Is this really a peak of the True Martial Academy?¡± Chen Fan was shocked. ¡°The True Martial Academy is one of the nine overlord-ss forces of the Tianwu Continent. Shouldn¡¯t the Peerless Peak, known for being unrivaled, be packed with experts¡ªHeavenly Star realm, Manifestation realm, maybe even Legendary realm? Why are there only nine of us?¡±

    This surprised him.

    For the Peerless Peak to stand as one of the nine main peaks of the True Martial Academy, even feared by the Law Enforcement Hall, it should be overflowing with talent. Even if they had fewer people than the other mountain peaks, it shouldn¡¯t be to the extent of having so few of them.

    Beforeing to the True Martial Academy, Chen Fan had done his research.

    As the behemoth of the eastern continent, the True Martial Academy was full of experts, having as many Heavenly Star realm experts as sand in the vast seas. And even that was an understatement.

    Yet now, standing on Peerless Peak, he discovered that there were only nine members. The realization left him puzzled, almost making the Peak feel underwhelming.

    A loud and clear voice suddenly rang out, carrying a weight that could only belong to an expert of unimaginable depth.

    ¡°You¡¯re mistaken, Junior Brother. Our Peerless Peak is not known for our numbers.¡±

    Chen Fan turned, and a striking figure emerged from the pce¡ªa tall, handsome man with eyes that gleamed like stars and an aura so overwhelming it felt suffocating.

    If the third senior sister, Duanmu Lingxing, was the embodiment of tranquil elegance, this man was the embodiment of zing intensity¡ªa contrast of calm and fiery strength.

    ¡°Junior Brother, this is our second senior brother, Di Chen,¡± Jian Qi introduced.

    Chen Fan nodded and said, ¡°Greetings, Second Senior Brother.¡±

    Di Chen nodded with a smile and said, ¡°Junior Brother, our teacher doesn¡¯t ept just anyone as his disciple. Each of us on Peerless Peak is a force unto ourselves. Take me, for example. None under the Legendary realm can kill me. Why waste our resources on those who can¡¯t defy their limits or challenge those stronger than them? Weaklings have no ce here.¡±

    Chen Fan was a little lost for words.

    <i>To say that no one under the Legendary realm can kill him.... What is the Second Senior Brother¡¯s cultivation level?</i>

    As far as Chen Fan knew, in the Tianwu Continent, the Legendary realm experts stood at the very peak of the continent. Wouldn¡¯t this mean that Di Chen was only one step away from that peak?

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Chen Fan...¡± Duanmu Lingxing said, ¡°You¡¯ve made a great name for yourself on the Gen Road. However, our teacher still wouldn¡¯t have epted you if you hadn¡¯t defeated the half-step Heavenly Star realm Yuan Powang with only seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. Even now, although Teacher has already called you by name, the choice remains yours. If you wish, you¡¯re free to leave Peerless Peak and join another.¡±

    Chen Fan touched his nose, an amused smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

    It seemed that despite all his achievements, he¡¯d only barely met their requirements. Their standards were beyond monstrous!

    Although there were millions¡ªperhaps even billions¡ªof ¡°geniuses¡± in this world, geniusesparable to Chen Fan, ones who could challenge opponents far above their own cultivation level, were as rare as a phoenix¡¯s feathers or a qilin¡¯s horn.

    Figures like the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, Xiao Yan, and the others, while capable of battling opponents a single level above, couldn¡¯te close to Chen Fan¡¯s level of might.

    And yet, these geniuses¡ªcelebrated and pursued by major forces¡ªdidn¡¯t even warrant a second nce from Peerless Peak. To them, such prodigies weren¡¯t even worth considering¡ªthey were simply ssified as trash.

    Chen Fan was somewhat d that he was a greater genius than someone like the First Dragon Lord. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t he have be trash in the eyes of these people from the Peerless Peak?

    Another man walked out. He had an ordinary face. Judging by his appearance, this man seemed somewhat gloomy and cold and wasn¡¯t one for talks and smiles. He gave off a feeling like a venomous snake.

    ¡°How about it, Chen Fan? Are you willing to join our Peerless Peak? We won¡¯t force you if you¡¯re not willing.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart shook the moment he saw this man.

    He couldn¡¯t tell Di Chen or Duanmu Lingxing¡¯s cultivation levels, but he could still vaguely sense that this man was at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm.

    Jian Qi said from the side, ¡°He¡¯s the fourth senior brother, Yan Weiyi.¡±

    Chen Fan was shocked in his heart once more. Yan Weiyi was most likely not far from the Manifestation realm.

    If even the fourth senior brother was already at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm, then the cultivation of the second senior brother, Di Chen, and the third senior sister, Duanmu Lingxing couldn¡¯t be any lower.

    Since Di Chen said that no one under the Legendary realm could kill him, wouldn¡¯t that mean that the first senior brother was almost certainly a Legendary realm powerhouse?

    And if that was true, what kind of transcendent existence was their teacher? Chen Fan¡¯s heart thumped violently.

    ¡°What do you think, Chen Fan?¡± Duanmu Lingxing said, ¡°We won¡¯t force you to join us. You¡¯re free to choose another peak. The Heavenly Bastion Peak, Thunder Prison Peak, and the other eight major peaks each have over ten thousand disciples under them¡ªstrength in numbers, vast resources, and endless opportunities. If you prefer a hall with many people, that¡¯s fine. It¡¯s just that we¡¯re not fated.¡±

    Chen Fan thought for a while and nodded in agreement, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll join the Peerless Peak.¡±

    Although the Peerless Peak had few people, every one of them was an extraordinary genius.

    From this, Chen Fan could tell that the Peerless Peak¡¯s peak master, who was also their teacher, was definitely a special character.

    ¡°Haha, excellent. In that case, from now on, you will officially be the Peerless Peak¡¯s eighth disciple. Our Peerless Peak has always been unequaled under the heavens and domineering without bounds. Whoever dares to mess with us, Eighth Brother, just go ahead and smack them. If you can deal with it, settle it on your own. If you can¡¯t,e tell us seniors. If we can¡¯t settle it, there¡¯s still Teacher. No one can bully our Peerless Peak¡¯s people!¡± Jian Qi said assertively.

    ¡°Seventh Brother is right. There¡¯s only one word for whoever dares to mess with our Peerless Peak¡ªdeath!¡± Yan Weiyi said, overflowing with killing intent.

 Chapter 688 - What Peerless Means

    <h4>Chapter 688 - What Peerless Means</h4>

    When Yan Weiyi mentioned "death," Chen Fan felt a sudden chill sweep across heaven and earth. The atmosphere grew somber as if a bloodthirsty grim reaper had descended.

    On the Ancient Trial Road, Chen Fan had carved a bloody path, earning the title of the Killing God.

    However,pared to Yan Weiyi¡¯s shocking killing intent, Chen Fan''s aura seemed insignificant. He was the true killing god.

    When Yan Weiyi¡¯s terrifying intent erupted, it seemed like the entire world would drown in a sea of blood.

    Hearing Chen Fan agree to join the Peerless Peak, Yan Weiyi''s expression softened.

    ¡°Eighth Junior Brother, it has been a very long time since Teacher took in a disciple. Whenever our Peerless Peak epts a new disciple, it creates a huge sensation, not just in the True Martial Academy but across the entire eastern continent.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Chen Fan asked, still somewhat skeptical.

    ¡°Of course.¡± Jian Qi had a matter-of-fact look on his face and said, ¡°Teacher has been in deep meditation, observing the world. He chose you because he believes you''re the most exceptional. Why else would our Peerless Peak ept you over others? You know our teacher¡¯s standards¡ªordinary geniuses don¡¯t even catch his eye. When he chooses, it''s always someone extraordinary.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and asked, ¡°Oh, right, the Peerless Peak has a total of nine people, including me. Where are the others, like First Senior Brother, Fifth Senior Brother, and Sixth Senior Brother?¡±

    ¡°You wish to see them?¡± Di Chen said with a vague smile, ¡°First Senior Brother is our pride. He¡¯s an outstanding figure among the disciples of the academy¡¯s numerous halls. In the past, he dominated the Ancient Trial Roads alone, suppressing all the geniuses of heaven there to the point they couldn¡¯t lift their heads up. He¡¯s the strongest disciple of our True Martial Academy.¡±

    ¡°What? He suppressed all the geniuses on the ancient roads alone?¡± Chen Fan shivered.

    Although Chen Fan himself was responsible for many massacres on the Gen Road, killing many and gaining fame across the eastern continent, he also knew that the most outstanding geniuses on the other ancient roads weren¡¯t terrified of him.

    However, his first senior brother had actually dominated all the geniuses on the other ancient roads. How stylish was that!

    From the atmosphere around him and the rumors circting, it was obvious to Chen Fan that the True Martial Academy had immense strength.

    It was a renowned gathering ce for experts from across the eastern continent, teeming with hidden talents. The fact that the First Senior Brother of Peerless Peak ranked first among all academy disciples hinted at the extraordinary level of his cultivation.

    No wonder Peerless Peak only epted the most talented individuals.

    ¡°As for a fifth senior brother, we don¡¯t have one.¡± Jian Qi rified, ¡°Instead, we have a Fifth Senior Sister named Zhuge Mingyue, but she¡¯s currently on a mission. Our Sixth Senior Brother, Zhu Yue, is also away on a mission. Right now, it¡¯s just the two of us at Peerless Peak.¡±

    <i>The number of people here is really too few.</i> Chen Fan thought as he shook his head, but he did not say anything more.

    This scarcity underscored the greatness of Peerless Peak. Filled with anticipation, Chen Fan wondered what remarkable figures the First Senior Brother, Huang Wuji, and their teacher, Zhang Daoling, truly were.

    ¡°Alright, Chen Fan, since you¡¯re willing to join us, you shall henceforth be our junior brother, ranked eighth. The Peerless Peak doesn¡¯t have many rules; just one¡ªnever betray your teacher¡¯s school. Otherwise, you will be pursued to the ends of the world until you die,¡± said Di Chen, his words carrying a hint of solemnity.

    Chen Fan nodded, then cupped his fists toward Di Chen and the others and said, ¡°I pay my respects to Senior Brothers and Senior Sister.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, very good. After all these years, Peerless Peak finally wees a new junior brother!¡± Jian Qi eximed, his happiness evident.

    Once rankedst, he now felt a surge of joy at being promoted to senior brother with Chen Fan¡¯s arrival.

    Several extremely powerful auras descended upon the mountain peak, darkening the skies over the city as if a violent storm was brewing.

    In an instant, coldness shed across Di Chen and the others¡¯ gazes.

    ¡°Who dares toe to our Peerless Peak to throw a fit, are they looking to die?¡±

    An overwhelming killing intent surged from Yan Weiyi, causing the sky to be dyed blood-red, as if it had turned into a sea of blood, looking extremely terrifying.

    ¡°The Law Enforcement Hall hase to Peerless Peak to capture the murderer, Chen Fan. Are you going to stop us?¡± An old man dressed in robes stepped forward, releasing a terrifying aura¡ªhe was in the Manifestation realm. The surrounding space changed wildly, and his gaze was fierce as a sword.

    ¡°Murderer?¡± Yan Weiyi smiled coldly and said icily, ¡°Get lost!¡±

    His voice surged like a wave, echoing with authority. Even in the presence of a Manifestation realm powerhouse, Yan Weiyi showed no fear, asserting his dominance with a directmand.

    Di Chen and Duanmu Lingxing both watched indifferently as this transpired.

    Would it be so easy for them toe to the Peerless Peak to demand they hand over someone?

    ¡°Yan Weiyi, our Law Enforcement Hall is performing our duty ording to the academy¡¯s rules. No matter how tyrannical your Peerless Peak is, could it be that you won¡¯t even show any respect to the academy¡¯s rules?¡± Anger showed on this Manifestation realm powerhouse¡¯s face. He was burning with rage.

    As a Manifestation realm expert, being told to leave by Yan Weiyi, who was only at the peak of the Heavenly Star realm, was a tant humiliation and disregard for his authority.

    ¡°Academy rules? Old man, don¡¯t try to unt fake authority. Get lost now, and you can still leave in one piece. If you don¡¯t, you¡¯ll have to leave something behind,¡± said Yan Weiyi coldly.

    Jian Qi and the others were all smiling coldly.

    Unexpectedly, Kang Hong had actually gone to call for reinforcements.

    ¡°Yan Weiyi, you¡¯re too presumptuous!¡± The old man¡¯s rage erupted, his voice shaking the very air. Being threatened by Yan Weiyi was a direct insult to his status as an executive of the Law Enforcement Hall and a Manifestation realm expert.

    ¡°Not going away?¡±

    Unbothered by the man¡¯s fury, Yan Weiyi turned to Chen Fan and said, ¡°Junior Brother, since you¡¯ve just joined us today, I shall show you why we¡¯re called the Peerless Peak!¡±

    With those words, Yan Weiyi reached into the void, conjuring a saber from his primeval energy, and shed at the Law Enforcement Hall executive.

    The space produced a furious roar.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sh moved faster than a stream of light, almost instantaneous, appearing before the Law Enforcement Hall executive like the grim reaper¡¯s de aimed at his head.

    ¡°You dare!¡± This Law Enforcement Hall executive¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    Even as a second-level Manifestation realm expert, he felt the chilling aura of death.

    His cultivation surged in desperation, but it was futile. The sh tore through his defenses and struck down.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream echoed. Fresh blood spurted wildly, and an arm flew out.

 Chapter 689 - The Peerless Peakâ€™s Overwhelming Strength

    <h4>Chapter 689 - The Peerless Peak¡¯s Overwhelming Strength</h4>

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream pierced the air.

    Blood spurted wildly as a severed, bloodied arm flew through the sky.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Chen Fan sucked in a breath of cold air.

    His fourth senior brother, Yan Weiyi, had condensed a qi saber and severed the arm of a second-level Manifestation realm super expert. The elegance and precision of the move were awe-inspiring.

    Chen Fan began to grasp the true meaning of being peerless.

    A peak Heavenly Star realm had effortlessly severed the arm of a second-level Manifestation realm expert. If this wasn¡¯t peerless, then what was?

    Yan Weiyi truly stood as an invincible existence within the Heavenly Star realm.

    Chen Fan also noticed that if the opponent hadn¡¯t reacted swiftly, Yan Weiyi''s sh wouldn¡¯t have just taken his arm¡ªit would¡¯ve imed half his life.

    The strength of the Peerless Peak¡¯s people was not only unrivaled in the same level, but they were also boundlessly domineering.

    No wonder everyone, from Second Senior Brother Di Chen to Seventh Senior Brother Jian Qi, carried themselves with such pride. They had the strength to look down on their peers.

    Although the Peerless Peak only had a few members, they were indeed all monsters capable of fighting others above their levels. Their talents weren''t far behind his own.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    This Law Enforcement Hall executive was still screaming miserably, his wound bleeding uncontrobly.

    Yan Weiyi¡¯s sh was tyrannical, containing the willpower to ¡°kill.¡± This kind of power was very hard to dispel, and the unfortunate man had no way to suppress the lingering, destructive energy.

    The other Law Enforcement Hall members were scared witless and turned pale after seeing their executive being severely injured in one strike,pletely powerless to resist.

    The Peerless Peak¡¯s people were indeed monsters and absolute lunatics. They didn¡¯t care who you were¡ªcrossing them could only bring you absolute misfortune.

    Even though they were from the Law Enforcement Hall, in charge of punishing others in the academy, and could act as they wanted in front of other disciples, they were still a head shorter in front of the Peerless Peak.

    Kang Hong watched the executive¡¯s arm get severed in a single stroke and was so terrified that he wet his pants on the spot.

    Suddenly, the wind rose and the clouds surged. A terrifying aura erupted from the distance, shaking the heavens and earth, and an overwhelming pressure enveloped the entire area.

    ¡°Peerless Peak, you¡¯re too presumptuous!¡±

    Under this aura, Chen Fan felt as if countless ancient divine mountains were pressing down on him, leaving him breathless.

    And he wasn¡¯t alone. Jian Qi, enveloped in sword intent, resisted the terrifying pressure. His expression remained unchanged, standing straight and firm, like a sword piercing the sky.

    Finally, the second senior brother, Di Chen, said, ¡°Xiao Qianhe, you¡¯re being audacious!¡±

    The moment his words rang out, the oppressive pressure lifted, vanishing like a storm clearing after the rain.

    The wind and clouds surged in the horizon, revealing a figure.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    An elder with eyes as sharp as a falcon appeared. His neatly kept mustache and dignified presence left a powerful impression.

    He was Xiao Qianhe, an elder from the Law Enforcement Hall, with cultivation at the peak of the Manifestation realm.

    A cold gleam shed in Xiao Qianhe¡¯s eyes as he wasted no time using Chen Fan of murdering members of his hall.

    ¡°Di Chen, Chen Fan murdered our disciples in front of the True Martial City¡¯s gates. His sins are unforgivable. As one of the main peaks of the True Martial Academy, your Peerless Peak also has to abide by the academy¡¯s rules. Yet here you stand, obstructing us from carrying out our duty. What is the meaning of this?¡±

    Di Chen said indifferently, ¡°Xiao Qianhe, your Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people dared to ambush and try to kill a disciple of Peerless Peak outside True Martial City. You should be happy that I haven¡¯t gone to your hall to demand an exnation. You twist facts well. What, you think Peerless Peak is easy to bully just because we¡¯re few?¡±

    A terrifying aura erupted from Di Chen, causing the space to vibrate violently, pressing toward Xiao Qianhe.

    His cultivation level wasn¡¯t as high as Xiao Qianhe¡¯s, but his aura was far more powerful and domineering, making Xiao Qianhe''s eyes narrow in unease.

    Di Chen had said that no one under the Legendary realm could kill him. It wasn¡¯t mere boasting; it was a widely acknowledged truth.

    Even Xiao Qianhe wasn¡¯t confident he could defeat Di Chen in a fight.

    Everyone in the academy knew the unrivaled strength of Peerless Peak.

    It was said in song and whispers alike: better to face the wrath of the Law Enforcement Hall than to provoke Peerless Peak. That fear and awe spoke volumes.

    Every one of those nine Peerless Peak members was an invincible existence among those of the same level.

    Peerless, truly peerless¡ªnone could match them. Their tyranny knew no bounds, giving even the academy¡¯s higher-ups a headache.

    The Law Enforcement Hall could unt their authority at the other peaks, but they really didn¡¯t dare to be too reckless at the Peerless Peak.

    They knew that if they truly provoked its members, the Peerless Peak members would not hesitate to storm the Law Enforcement Hall itself. Such a confrontation wasn''t mere legend; it had happened before.

    Fifty years ago, the Law Enforcement Hall arrested Jian Qi. A Lesser Legendary realm expert had to take action to sessfully suppress Di Chen.

    However, before they could punish Jian Qi, the Peerless Peak¡¯s eldest senior brother, Huang Wuji, stormed into the Law Enforcement Hall and executed that very expert on the spot. The incident sent shockwaves through the academy that rippled across the entire eastern continent.

    The academy was incensed, and even the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s Hall Master, Elder Tian Xing, publicly vowed to discipline Huang Wuji. However, everything changed when the Peerless Peak¡¯s peak master, Zhang Daoling, made a personal visit to the Law Enforcement Hall.

    From that moment on, not another word was spoken about Huang Wuji¡¯s punishment.

    This was the true extent of Peerless Peak¡¯s tyranny and indomitable might.

    And now, even if the Law Enforcement Hall had a legitimate reason, it was clear they couldn¡¯t touch Chen Fan if Peerless Peak refused to surrender him.

    Xiao Qianhe''s expression fluctuated, torn between fury and uneasiness.

    ¡°Xiao Qianhe, take your men with you and get lost. Our Peerless Peak doesn¡¯t cause trouble, but we¡¯re definitely not afraid of it either. There is only one oue for those who dare to mess with our Peerless Peak: death! You should be d that First Senior Brother isn¡¯t here, if not, <i>hmph hmph</i>.¡± Di Chen snorted twice coldly, causing Xiao Qianhe¡¯s expression to change again.

    Even if the entire Law Enforcement Hall was very furious, they could not do a thing to the Peerless Peak¡¯s eldest senior brother, Huang Wuji.

    Huang Wuji could already kill a Lesser Legendary realm expert with peak Manifestation realm cultivation. Now that he was stronger, perhaps even a Greater Legendary realm expert would not be a match for him.

    In the Law Enforcement Hall, their hall master Elder Tian Xing was the only Greater Legendary realm expert. No one in the entire Law Enforcement Hall could suppress the few people from the Peerless Peak, not to mention there was still the Peak Master Zhang Daoling.

    Chen Fan could vividly feel the sheer dominance and unyielding presence of Peerless Peak as he watched the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people hesitate, stuck between retreating and stubbornly holding their ground.

    It became abundantly clear: regardless of their authority, even if reason favored them, they held no qualifications to challenge Peerless Peak on its own turf.

    Two cold lights shot out of Di Chen¡¯s eyes. His voice also became cold all of a sudden. ¡°What, still not leaving? Do I have to throw you out personally?¡±

    Xiao Qianhe looked at Di Chen, his expression iparably ugly. Today, he had not only failed his mission but also suffered an unbearable loss of face.

    ¡°Di Chen, you people from Peerless Peak had better stick to the rules and don¡¯t let our Law Enforcement Hall get hold of your weakness, if not, <i>hmph</i>!¡± Xiao Qianhe let out a cold, heavy snort and waved his hand, bringing the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people back.

    Di Chen did not put Xiao Qianhe¡¯s words to heart at all and said, ¡°Chen Fan, our Peerless Peak never takes the initiative to bully others, but we also don¡¯t allow anyone to bully us. Whoever dares to bully you, no need for words, just kill them, even if they¡¯re from the Law Enforcement Hall!¡±

    His words, deliberately unrestrained, echoed clearly in the air, reaching Xiao Qianhe¡¯s ears. A final, bitter snort reverberated in the skies.

 Chapter 690 - 33 Heavenly Domains

    <h4>Chapter 690 - 33 Heavenly Domains</h4>

    The Law Enforcement Hall executive clutched his bleeding wound, his face ghostly pale, resentment shing in his eyes.

    ¡°Elder Xiao, those people from Peerless Peak, they...¡±

    They had gone to the Peerless Peak to demand that they hand over Chen Fan. Instead of seeding, he ended up losing an arm. Even their bigshot, Elder Xiao Qianhe, was forced to retreat in humiliation.

    Too stifling!

    The Law Enforcement Hall rarely experienced such a stifling defeat.

    Only Peerless Peak dared to humiliate them this way¡ªnone of the other eight major peaks had ever gone this far.

    The Peerless Peak truly showed zero regard for their Law Enforcement Hall.

    Xiao Qianhe¡¯s face was also ashen, his expression so dark it seemed like a storm was about to break.

    As a respected elder of the Law Enforcement Hall and a peak Manifestation realm expert, being forced to back down was a bitter pill to swallow. It was nothing short of humiliating.

    ¡°They what! What about them!" Xiao Qianhe snapped. "Those Peerless Peak lunatics! Who told you to mess with them? Not only did our Law Enforcement Hallck a valid reason, but even if we did, what could we have done if they refused to hand Chen Fan over? Ask the Hall Master to take action personally?¡± Xiao Qianhe roared angrily at this executive.

    His loss of face at Peerless Peak was unbearable, and he needed to vent his rage. Naturally, the executive became his target.

    ¡°I¡¯m warning you people, don''t mess with those Peerless Peak lunatics for no reason. Have you forgotten how the Third Elder died fifty years ago? Even the academy¡¯s higher-ups struggle to deal with them. You bunch of ignorant fools, you really tried to kill Chen Fan at the city gates after receiving some benefits? That too in the open, allowing others to see your weakness. You utter fools!¡± Xiao Qianhe only grew angrier as he scolded them.

    He was aware of the root cause of this matter. He wouldn¡¯t have backed down so easily if they had a valid reason in this situation. Xiao Qianhe would have marched straight to Elder Tian Xing.

    The Law Enforcement Hall harbored great enmity against the Peerless Peak due to them killing the Third Elder. The Peerless Peak¡¯s people were especially an eyesore for Elder Tian Xing.

    If he could seize the right opportunity, no matter how overwhelmingly powerful the Peerless Peak was, they would find themselves in the wrong if things escted to the academy¡¯s higher-ups. Elder Tian Xing had always wanted to find a chance to take revenge for the matter back then.

    However, Qi Cheng and the others had acted foolishly. Not only did they take their actions into the open, but they also failed to take down Chen Fan in the end.

    If they had killed Chen Fan on the spot, that would have been the end of it¡ªthey would have annoyed Zhang Daoling by eliminating a genius he highly valued.

    But instead, Qi Cheng, no match for Chen Fan¡¯s strength, ended up dead.

    Even Kang Hong, their Heavenly Star realm expert, couldn¡¯t kill Chen Fan in one go. Instead, it ended with Jian Qi severing Kang Hong¡¯s arm. They were simply a bunch of useless trash.

    ¡°Elder Xiao, are we dropping this matter just like that?¡± This executive¡¯s face was full of indignity.

    Xiao Qianhe smiled coldly, his eyes gloomy and cruel. ¡°Drop this matter? <i>Hmph</i>, don¡¯t worry, the rookie disciples¡¯ Demon Hunting Competition is in half a year. Chen Fan dies then!¡±

    ......

    Everything was calm at the Peerless Peak.

    However, Chen Fan''s heart crashed with waves of excitement.

    He had thoroughly felt the tyranny and overwhelming strength of the Peerless Peak.

    Even the Law Enforcement Hall had returned dejected and depressed aftering aggressively, unable to touch him.

    ¡°Alright, Chen Fan, First Senior Brother will probably return after the rookie disciples¡¯ Demon Hunting Competition. As for Teacher, he rarely makes appearances. Once a year and even that¡¯s if we are lucky,¡± said Di Chen with a smile, patting Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°Demon Hunting Competition?¡± Chen Fan looked puzzled.

    ¡°It seems you don¡¯t know about it. Allow me to exin.¡± Noticing Chen Fan¡¯s confusion, Di Chen said with a smile, ¡°You rookie disciples will undergo a test six months after entering the academy. It¡¯s meant to evaluate your cultivation progress over that half year.

    ¡°The Demon Hunting Competition, as the name suggests, involves hunting the demon race. You¡¯re not far from the Heavenly Star realm now, so I can tell you some things regarding the cultivation world.

    ¡°Chen Fan, tell me. Do you think the Tianwu Continent is the only continent in this world?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered, and he answered, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    That was the truth.

    Di Chen shook his head and said, ¡°There are many other cultivation continents like the Tianwu Continent. Let me put it this way, above us¡±¡ªhe pointed upward¡ª¡°There are even more expansive cultivation worlds known as the 33 Heavenly Domains. We also call it the Upper Realm. You can understand it as that our Tianwu Continent is a lower realm.¡± [1]

    ¡°People often talk about cultivating and bing an immortal, or ascending into an immortal. Immortals do indeed exist. They are in the Upper Realm¡¯s 33 Heavenly Domains.

    ¡°Of course, these things are still a little too far away for you. This is just a quick exnation to give you a rough idea of the situation.

    ¡°Moreover, we humans are not the only race in this universe. There are many other races, like barbarians, spirits, merman, elves, demons, and more.

    ¡°The Demon Hunting Competition involves hunting the demon race, which includes blood demons and evil path cultivators. They are a very wicked race that loves to invade and destroy other continents.

    ¡°Our True Martial Academy is in control of a microcosm, which is a fragment of a demon race¡¯s continent. Our ancestors confined it using their immense powers, and we use it as a training ground for our disciples.

    ¡°There are many demons inside this Little Demon Realm. After thousands of years of reproduction, they¡¯ve formed a demon kingdom that includes Heavenly Star and Manifestation realm figures.

    ¡°You rookies will enter the Little Demon Realm to hunt the demon race. The more you kill, the more points you umte, and the higher your ranking will be.

    ¡°How well you rookies perform directly determines how much resources the various factions receive. The better you perform, the more cultivation resources we get.

    ¡°As you know, we at the Peerless Peak have few people. We¡¯re at a disadvantagepared to the other peaks. We haven¡¯t epted any new disciples in thest century, so no one participated in the Demon Hunting Competition. Naturally, we had no achievements and received the least amount of resources.

    ¡°But now that you¡¯re here, you¡¯ll be our sole participant. We don¡¯t expect too much from you. Given your talent, we don¡¯t need you to surpass the other eight major peaks, but you should at least aim for the top ten. Are you confident you can achieve that?¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s face sank.

    The other peaks had plenty of disciples. Even though they weren¡¯t strong enough, they were many, which ensured that their final points would be very high.

    On the other hand, Chen Fan had to make it into the top ten by himself. The difficulty of this mission was extraordinarily high.

    But what could he say?

    He nodded and said with a stiff expression, ¡°No problem.¡±

    ¡°Haha, I knew you would have no problem.¡± Di Chen and the others broke out intoughter, an unusual look shing across their eyes.

    1. The 33 Heavenly Domains was hinted at in Ch 456 after Chen Fan escaped from the big head, Yama Devil Emperor, who was stuck in a bloody world inside Fiendish Corpse Mountain Range. ?

 Chapter 691 - Academy Shaken

    <h4>Chapter 691 - Academy Shaken</h4>

    ¡°Eighth Junior Brother, the Demon Hunting Competition is in half a year. Get ready. Making it into the top ten won¡¯t be easy, and you also have to keep an eye out for those Law Enforcement Hall bastards¡¯ schemes. Given their vengeful personality, they¡¯ll make a move against you,¡± Jian Qi said, patting Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°Eighth Junior Brother, I feel optimistic about you. You can do it!¡± Yan Weiyi also showed a rare smile.

    Di Chen waved his hand and said, ¡°Alright, get back to cultivating, all of you. Chen Fan, you should seize the time to raise your level. There are many powerful demons in the Little Demon Realm. Not only do you have to guard against the demons, but you also have to be on guard against those from the other peaks. The stronger you are, the safer you will be.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and said seriously, ¡°Rest assured, senior brothers and sister. I won¡¯t disappoint you. I¡¯ll rank within the top ten and bring glory to our Peerless Peak!¡±

    ¡°Very good. Our Peerless Peak doesn¡¯t have a fixed ce for cultivating. There¡¯s plenty of space but few people, so just find your ce to train,¡± Di Chen said.

    ¡°Then I will go cultivate now,¡± Chen Fan said before heading off.

    The thought of the Demon Hunting Competition in six months weighed heavily on him. Despite being the only one participating from their peak, he had to secure a spot in the top ten. Achieving that would be no easy feat. How many demons would he have to kill to make it?

    And the Law Enforcement Hall also wouldn¡¯t let go of this opportunity to deal with him.

    He needed to raise his cultivation as much as possible in half a year, best if he could enter the Heavenly Star realm.

    After Chen Fan left, Di Chen and the others exchanged nces before breaking intoughter.

    Jian Qiughed and said, ¡°Second Senior Brother, aren¡¯t we being too mean? You ranked in the twenties or thirties when youpeted in the Demon Hunting Competition. Just by taking the eleventh ce First Senior Brother created history for our Peerless Peak. Yet, we¡¯re telling Chen Fan to break into the top ten? Isn¡¯t that asking too much?¡±

    Yan Weiyi rubbed his nose, looking sheepish. ¡°I do think we might¡¯ve set the bar a bit high...¡±

    Di Chenughed, ¡°It''s fine. Pressure creates motivation. Consider it a test of Chen Fan¡¯s strength. We should have faith in him. Who knows, he might even break First Senior Brother¡¯s record."

    ¡°This...¡± Jian Qi looked doubtful. ¡°First Senior Brother is a genius favored by the heavens.¡±

    ¡°Seventh Junior Brother, you can¡¯t think like that,¡± Di Chen said, his smile fading. ¡°First Senior Brother might be a heavenly genius, but he should be someone you aim to surpass.¡±

    Jian Qi shook his head helplessly and said, ¡°Forget it, I¡¯d better surpass Sixth Senior Brother first.¡±

    ......

    That same day, the story of Chen Fan killing Law Enforcement Hall disciples outside True Martial City spread like wildfire.

    People soon learned that even more Law Enforcement Hall personnel had gone to Peerless Peak to arrest Chen Fan. They failed, and their Manifestation realm executive had his arm severed. Even an elder was embarrassed and returned without sess.

    In a sh, Chen Fan and the Peerless Peak became the talk of the town amongst the rookies.

    ¡°This Chen Fan guy is really bold. He killed Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people right outside True Martial City. He¡¯s simply out of control.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, he has the strength. Even the Heavenly Star realm Kang Hong couldn¡¯t take him down. You can imagine how terrifying Chen Fan¡¯s strength is. He¡¯s truly the ¡®Killing God¡¯ who carved a bloody path on the Gen Road. No matter where he goes, blood follows¡ªeven at True Martial City.¡±

    ¡°Still, the tallest tree catches the wind. Those who are too rigid often break. If you ask me, Chen Fan¡¯s in for some serious trouble soon.¡±

    ¡°Oh, right, do you guys know what¡¯s going on with the Peerless Peak? Even the Law Enforcement Hall was embarrassed. This is too unbelievable.¡±

    ¡°I know. Despite being so small¡ªrumor has it there aren¡¯t even ten members¡ªit stands out among the various groups in the academy. You guys better not underestimate them. As its name suggests, everyone there is a monster. They¡¯re invincible at their cultivation level,¡± said someone who had clearly done their research.

    He continued, ¡°To put it bluntly, it¡¯s nearly impossible for ordinary people to join the Peerless Peak. Why? Because their Peak Master personally selects his disciples. Only monstrous geniuses make the cut. Even if you are a genius, there¡¯s no guarantee you¡¯ll impress them.

    ¡°Look at the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others. Monster-ss geniuses, right? Yet, only Chen Fan became a disciple of the Peerless Peak. That tells you just how high the standards are for admission.

    ¡°All their members can fight two or three realms above their cultivation level. Although the First Dragon Lord and the others aren¡¯t bad, can they do that? No, they can¡¯t! That¡¯s the difference between them and Chen Fan!¡±

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    A chorus of gasps echoed among the rookie disciples as they absorbed this information.

    Finally, they had a rough understanding of the true nature of the monsters from the Peerless Peak. No wonder they were called the Peerless Peak.

    ¡°I see. No wonder even the Law Enforcement Hall was embarrassed and returned resentfully. I heard that even the peak Manifestation realm Elder Xiao had made an appearance, but was told to get lost by the Peerless Peak. They truly are tyrannical and domineering, showing no respect to the Law Enforcement Hall.¡±

    ¡°This isn¡¯t much! You guys probably don¡¯t even know that!¡±

    ¡°Know what?¡±

    ¡°Fifty years ago, the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people went there to arrest Jian Qi. They had to mobilize their third elder, a Lesser Legendary realm peak expert, to bring Jian Qi into custody...¡±

    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t a Lesser Legendary realm peak expert take action this time?¡±

    ¡°Tch! Let me finish!¡± said the informed rookie. ¡°Jian Qi was brought back to the Law Enforcement Hall, and he was about to be punished... Suddenly, the Peerless Peak¡¯s eldest senior brother, Huang Wudi, barged in and killed that Lesser Legendary realm elder. Right there, on the spot. And he was only in the Manifestation realm cultivation then. The news shook the whole of the True Martial Academy.

    ¡°Afterward, Elder Tian Xing dered he would punish Huang Wudi, but guess what happened next? He got a visit from the Peerless Peak¡¯s peak master, Zhang Daoling. Since then, the entire Law Enforcement Hall hadn¡¯t mentioned that punishment once.¡±

    ¡°The Peerless Peak earned their fierce reputation with blood. There¡¯s a song among the academy¡¯s disciples: it¡¯s better to mess with the Law Enforcement Hall than with the Peerless Peak. This time, the Law Enforcement Hall is in the wrong. If they really mobilized a Lesser Legendary realm, then you tell me, what would have happened when Huang Wudi returned?¡±

    <i>Hiss, hiss!</i>

    The rookie disciples gasped, their souls nearly evaporating from the shock of such hidden truths. They had never realized just how powerful and terrifying the Peerless Peak truly was!

    The thought that a peak Manifestation realm martial artist like Huang Wudi could kill a Lesser Legendary realm expert was mind-boggling!

    What did it mean to be a Legendary realm expert? They were fabled existences that stood at the peak of the Tianwu Continent.

    Yet, here was one such expert being in by someone of a lower realm. It was simply heaven-defying!

    The crowd could almost envision that unmatched scene, their blood racing at the thought of such an incredible disy of power.

 Chapter 692 - Martial Dao Will

    <h4>Chapter 692 - Martial Dao Will</h4>

    The events at the Peerless Peak swept through the True Martial Academy like a storm, shocking countless people.

    The Law Enforcement Hall found itself utterly powerless before the Peerless Peak, suffering humiliation instead. This disy of overwhelming strength left everyone with a clear understanding of just how formidable the Peerless Peak truly was.

    Many people felt envious, wishing to enter the Peerless Peak.

    However, they knew this desire was nothing more than a distant fantasy.

    To be a disciple of the Peerless Peak, one had to be truly extraordinary¡ªa monstrous talent that had earned the recognition of Peak Master Zhang Daoling himself.

    Many of these individuals were hailed as geniuses and elites in any other ce, yet they still fell short of meeting the Peerless Peak''s seemingly unreal standards. They couldn¡¯t even set foot on its sacred grounds, let alone earn a ce among its members.

    After nearly a century of silence, Peerless Peak had finally chosen one person: Chen Fan. This single selection spoke volumes. In their eyes, Chen Fan was the most exceptional genius of the past century, eclipsing even the top talents from other ancient roads.

    Of course, this didn¡¯t sit well with many of the other top geniuses.

    As prideful, monster-ss talents who had always stood at the top, they saw themselves as experts destined to overshadow their era.

    However, Peerless Peak had selected Chen Fan, not them. Didn¡¯t this mean they were inferior to Chen Fan?

    Some of them didn¡¯t even want to join the Peerless Peak, but they also couldn¡¯t help but be irked at the Peerless Peak¡¯s stance.

    These geniuses were especially disgruntled with Chen Fan, as they believed that they were more powerful and monstrous than him.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, Peerless Peak? Huh, more like Fake Reputation peak! I mean, just look at who they chose. Chen Fan? I will show them their foolishness at the Demon Hunting Competition!¡± An icy look shed across the eyes of the most outstanding genius on the Kun Road.

    ¡°Only monstrous geniuses can enter Peerless Peak? Fine, I will kill that Chen Fan at thepetition just to see how they would react then.¡± The Zhen Road¡¯s most outstanding genius was overflowing with killing intent in his heart.

    ¡°Peerless Peak? Chen Fan...¡±

    The top talents of other Ancient Trial Roads harbored the same intent. They resolved to drench their hands in Chen Fan¡¯s blood to prove that they were real geniuses.

    Yet, Chen Fan was blissfully unaware of the storm brewing against him. And even if he knew, he wouldn¡¯t care.

    Many wanted him dead, so the addition of these ¡°geniuses¡± wouldn¡¯t make much difference to him.

    ......

    Perched atop a towering cliff, a solitary figure sat cross-legged, his silhouette framed against a sea of clouds.

    The clouds and mist churned like ten thousand galloping horses, and it also resembled towering waves crashing down.

    Gazing into the endless horizon, Chen Fan fell deep into thought.

    He had made a promise, and now he was determined to fulfill it.

    Every one of his senior brothers and sisters on the Peerless Peak were monstrous geniuses, invincible existences at the same level.

    Now that he had be the eighth disciple of the Peerless Peak, it was his turn to embody the meaning of "peerless."

    The uing Demon Hunting Competition would be his first opportunity to prove himself.

    Even if he stood alone, Chen Fan had to bear the weight of the title "peerless" and prove himself worthy of the Peerless Peak.

    <i>Six months... It¡¯s just about enough. Entering the Heavenly Star realm isn¡¯t possible, and the more I progress in the Hegemonic Golden Body, the harder further progression bes. I will needrge amounts of metal-attributed natural treasures of heaven and earth, a true dragon¡¯s divine blood, or simr treasures. Achieving a breakthrough in my cultivation will be anything but easy.</i> Chen Fan pondered.

    Cultivation couldn¡¯t be improved overnight. And he could forget about achieving good results in the Demon Hunting Competition without sufficient strength. He might even tarnish the Peerless Peak¡¯s reputation.

    Thispetition wasn¡¯t just about representing his peak. It was a trial¡ªa chance to prove his potential and worth.

    <i>Given my current strength, a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert is no problem, but a genuine Heavenly Star realm expert would be challenging.</i>

    Although he had shocked everyone by resisting Kang Hong¡¯s attack, Chen Fan was painfully aware that he still fell shortpared to a true Heavenly Star realm powerhouse.

    <i>There will definitely be genuine Heavenly Star realm experts at the Demon Hunting Competition. If my cultivation remains stagnant, I won¡¯t stand a chance. </i>Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered.

    Now, the top geniuses of the other ancient roads had all entered the eight other major peaks.

    With their exceptional talent, those halls would undoubtedly invest immense resources in nurturing them.

    Furthermore, before these geniuses had even entered the True Martial Academy, they were already at the eighth or ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. Half a year was enough for them toprehend their Martial Dao Will and advance into a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    <i>Very well, </i>Chen Fan thought, a sharp glint flickering in his eyes.<i> If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll grasp my Martial Dao Will first. Then, even a Heavenly Star realm expert won¡¯t be enough to suppress me. With my unparalleled physical strength and boundless primeval energy, I¡¯ll face them head-on without fear.</i>

    Within his Heaven Seizing Furnace rested two Martial Dao Will Fragments¡ªone seized by force, the other obtained after ying Qingxu.

    Chen Fan had been steadily contemting their mysteries since acquiring them, unraveling strands of insight that gradually revealed the path forward.

    Without a moment''s hesitation, he took action.

    Settling his thoughts, Chen Fan channeled the power of the two fragments, fully immersing himself in their depths, seeking toprehend the essence of the Martial Dao Wills.

    Martial Dao Will was something very mysterious. It could not be described with words.

    For a martial artist, either they understood it or they didn¡¯t, and for those who failed, the Heavenly Star realm would remain forever out of reach.

    The fragments in Chen Fan¡¯s possession were remnants, iplete glimpses of what had once been glorious.

    But he wasn''t interested in merely inheriting what others had left behind. No¡ªChen Fan sought to ze his own trail, to forge his unique Martial Dao Will.

    Every martial artist¡¯s path to the Martial Dao was uniquely their own, each realization shaping an entirely different Will.

    Comprehending the Martial Dao Will would not only amplify their offensive power, it would also raise their defensive power.

    Chen Fan immersed himself in theprehension of the Martial Dao Will, sitting cross-legged on the mountain like a statue. His sense of self, the world, and even the passing of time had faded into obscurity.

    Jian Qi and Di Chen stood on the tip of a mountain, observing Chen Fan from afar.

    ¡°Second Senior Brother, Eighth Junior Brother has been sitting there for three months. Can heprehend the Martial Dao Will?¡±

    Di Chen shook his head and said, ¡°That¡¯s hard to say. A Martial Dao Will is unfathomably profound. Some grasp it in a moment of rity, while others may never attain it, no matter how long they try. In the end, it all depends on his fate."

    Naturally, they could clearly see the state of cultivation Chen Fan was currently in and knew that Chen Fan was trying toprehend his Martial Dao Will.

    They could not help with this kind of thing. It would all depend on Chen Fan himself.

 Chapter 693 - The Demon Hunting Competition Begins

    <h4>Chapter 693 - The Demon Hunting Competition Begins</h4>

    Chen Fan had bepletely oblivious to the world around him.

    The two Martial Dao Will Fragments had distinct powers. So, they worked as great reference material for Chen Fan to gain a better understanding.

    On this day, Chen Fan slowly opened his eyes. A brilliant light shed across his eyes.

    ¡°So, this is the Martial Dao Will,¡± muttered Chen Fan to himself.

    A faint, hazy glow emanated from the center of his palm. This was the Martial Dao Will he hadprehended, a reflection of his own essence.

    Unlike Jian Qi¡¯s pure sword path will, which shattered obstacles with unparalleled sharpness in a single stroke, this power of Martial Dao Willcked any specific attributes.

    Instead, it embodied the chaos of all things.

    While he wasprehending his Martial Dao Will, the small golden person in his be said something in the divinenguage. This propelled Chen Fan¡¯s divine will from the Tianwu Continent into the vast starry sky of the universe.

    In that moment, he glimpsed the birth and destruction of a universe, witnessing the evolution of chaos. A sh of lightning illuminated his mind as heprehended this Martial Dao Will of chaos.

    ¡°I wonder if my Martial Dao Will is strong or weak?¡±

    A luster shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    The strength of a Martial Dao Will power determined whether a Heavenly Star realm expert was strong or weak rtive to those in the same level and their growth potential. The stronger their Martial Dao Will, the greater their strength and potential, given equal cultivation levels.

    However, Chen Fan believed that his Martial Dao Will wouldn¡¯t be too weak.

    After all, he had achieved this understanding with the help of the small golden figure, which had guided his divine will into the universe and allowed him to witness the cycle of creation and destruction.

    Not only that, in the instant he hadprehended chaos, those two Martial Dao Will Fragments melted and were absorbed by chaos.

    Chen Fan had never even heard of such a phenomenon before, where someone¡¯s Martial Dao Will absorbed other Martial Dao Wills.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I can test it out at the Demon Hunting Competition.¡±

    Chen Fan was now confident that he could enter the top ten, as Heavenly Star realm experts were no longer a threat to him.

    ¡°I still have a little bit of time. I should push to raise my cultivation level!¡±

    Chen Fan took out a huge amount of primeval stones and ignited them, turning them into a huge mass of pure primeval qi and absorbing it.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Immediately, Chen Fan¡¯s aura surged and boiled, climbing higher and higher, reaching the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Six months passed quietly as he and the others focused on their cultivation.

    During this period, Chen Fan finallyprehended the power of Martial Dao Will, seamlessly blending everything he had learned in the past into aprehensive understanding.

    All these concepts harmonized within him, elevating his enlightenment to a profound level.

    The true meaning of will resonated in his heart.

    ¡°In the Heavenly Star realm, the key lies inprehending Martial Dao Will and enhancing its power. However,prehending a Martial Dao Will is already so difficult, so enhancing its power and strengthening one¡¯s willpower will be no easy feat either.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered with realization.

    He had broken through the most difficult barrier toward the Heavenly Star realm byprehending a Martial Dao Will. Going forward, as long as he increased his true primeval and his cultivation, he would naturally advance into the Heavenly Star realm.

    On this day, the melodious toll of a giant bell suddenly echoed throughout the academy.

    <i>Dong!</i>

    <i>Dong, dong!</i>

    The sound of the bell shook the heavens and the earth, calling everyone to gather.

    When anyone heard this bell, a thought would spark deep within their hearts,pelling them to rush toward its sound.

    This was a summoning chime.

    Its resounding tone marked the beginning of the rookies¡¯ Demon Hunting Competition.

    Di Chen, Duanmu Lingxing, and the othersnded next to Chen Fan one after another, nning to go with Chen Fan.

    ¡°Junior Brother, today is the day. Let¡¯s head over.¡±

    ¡°Alright.¡± Chen Fan nodded and shot into the sky like a bolt of lightning, joining Di Chen and the others.

    <i>Swish, swish!</i>

    Chen Fan and the others headed toward the Demon Realm tform.

    After an incense stick¡¯s worth of time, the wind rose and the clouds surged. Chen Fan, Di Chen, and the others arrived at the Demon Realm tform.

    Many had already gathered on the enormous tform, packed tightly like a swarm of locusts.

    As the overlord of the eastern continent, the True Martial Academy had hundreds of thousands of disciples. Aside from the nine strongest peaks, it also had some other, weaker, peaks.

    Not every disciple of the True Martial Academy could enter the nine major peaks; it depended on their strength and talent. Only those who caught the interest of the nine major peaks could gain entry.

    What about those who didn¡¯t attract the nine major peaks'' favor?

    They would find eptance in some weaker peaks. And while they were called ¡°weaker,¡± that was only whenpared to nine peaks.

    Outside, these ¡°weaker¡± peaks would be considered a very powerful sect, as their peak masters were all Manifestation realm experts.

    Currently, the Demon Realm tform was¡ªin a manner of speaking¡ªdivided clearly.

    As soon as Chen Fan¡¯s group arrived, they instantly captured the attention of countless onlookers, who cast their gazes toward them one after another.

    ¡°Quick, look, the Peerless Peak¡¯s people are here!¡±

    As one of the nine major peaks of the True Martial Academy, although the Peerless Peak had few members, every one of them was an elite. Take Di Chen, for example. He wasparable to the peak masters of those weaker peaks. No one dared to look upon him lightly.

    Moreover, Chen Fan had stirred up a storm as soon as he entered the True Martial Academy. He killed the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s disciples in public and resisted a Heavenly Star realm expert¡¯s strike, while a Peerless Peak disciple, Jian Qi, severed Kang Hong¡¯s arm in one stroke.

    Even when the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s executive and elder went to the Peerless Peak to demand they hand them over to be punished, the Peerless Peak sent them packing.

    Although half a year had already passed since the incident, and the storm had subsided, there were still people who would bring it up from time to time.

    Furthermore, Chen Fan had caused a bloodbath on the Gen Road, leaving a trail of dead geniuses and experts in his wake, earning him the nickname ¡°Killing God¡± and shaking the eastern continent.

    He was already a famous figure himself. Naturally, he would draw the people¡¯s attention wherever he went.

    As Chen Fan and the others arrived, the crowd began to buzz with discussion.

    ¡°Peerless Peak is nothing, believe me. They have so few people that they could be considered withering.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s nonsense! They have a few people, but each and every one of them is a monster, invincible at their level. You see that man at the front? He¡¯s called Di Chen, the second disciple of the Peerless Peak. It¡¯s said that no one under the Legendary realm can kill him.

    ¡°That¡¯s the third disciple, Duanmu Lingxing. She might appear peaceful and calm, but in truth, she¡¯s also a vicious character who kills people like flies. They are all lunatics. It would be in your best interest to not go mess with them.¡±

    ¡°Mess with the Peerless Peak? You must be crazy! Haven¡¯t you heard? It¡¯s better to sh with the Law Enforcement Hall than with the Peerless Peak. Fifty years ago, Huang Wuji, single-handedly stormed the Law Enforcement Hall and killed their third elder, who was a Lesser Legendary realm expert. Their fierce reputation is well-earned through blood!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Peerless Peak only has nine people in total, with eight of them being disciples. They might be few in numbers, but this group is definitely thest one you¡¯d want to provoke in the True Martial Academy.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd began discussing when they saw Chen Fan and the others arrive.

 Chapter 694 - Good Boy

    <h4>Chapter 694 - Good Boy</h4>

    ¡°So many people.¡±

    Chen Fan observed the situation on the tform, realizing that there were no fewer than a hundred thousand people there.

    Their cultivation levels varied widely.

    Some were at the first or second level of the Divine Nascent realm, while others had reached the eighth or ninth level.

    All of them were gathered in groups, ording to their school, as if the True Martial Academy was conducting an assembly.

    Chen Fan¡¯s groupnded on the tform, standing apart from the others. The contrast between them and therger, more imposing groups was stark.

    Every disciple in the academy was a genius from some domain in the eastern continent. Whether they were disciples of the nine major peaks or from the lesser-known peaks, anyone who entered the academy was considered an elite.

    This highlighted just how many talented individuals existed in the world¡ªthere was always someone better.

    Had Chen Fan remained in the Great Chu Empire, he would have believed himself invincible with his Divine Nascent realm cultivation. But here, at the True Martial Academy, he was asmon as cabbages in a market or carps in a river.

    Without Divine Nascent realm cultivation, one couldn¡¯t even qualify to enter the academy, let alone be a disciple. The Divine Nascent realm was only the starting point.

    Martial artists at this level would have been at the very top in the Great Chu Empire, but in the True Martial Academy, they barely stood out¡ªunless they were exceptional geniuses like Chen Fan, whose name was known by all.

    Suddenly, the sound of wind being sliced filled the air. A streak of light shot across the sky.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The neers all had powerful auras, each at least in the sixth or the seventh level of the Divine Nascent realm, radiating pride.

    ¡°Junior Brother, they are from the Heavenly Bastion Peak,¡± Jian Qi exined to Chen Fan from the side. ¡°Among the nine major peaks of the True Martial Academy, aside from our Peerless Peak, Heavenly Bastion Peak is slightly stronger than the others, though even their strength has its limits.

    ¡°The most impressive disciple they¡¯ve recruited this time is Qin Wang, a well-known figure on the Zhen Road. Look, that young man in the center. Based on his aura, he¡¯s already broken through to the Heavenly Star realm.¡±

    Chen Fan nced at Qin Wang, who indeed had the presence of a talented and charismatic figure.

    Seemingly sensing Chen Fan¡¯s gaze, Qin Wang suddenly looked over, recognizing him immediately. Two sharp lights immediately shot out from his eyes, as if he was going to embarrass Chen Fan with his stare.

    He had stepped into the Heavenly Star realm and being a monster-ss genius, Qin Wang was a powerhouse even among those at the same level. Veteran martial artists, like Kang Hong, couldn¡¯tpare.

    Yet Chen Fan remained unfazed by Qin Wang¡¯s sharp look. He turned to Jian Qi and asked, ¡°Seventh Senior Brother, I have no history with him. Why is he acting hostile toward me right off the bat?¡±

    Jian Qiughed and said, ¡°Haha, Junior Brother, perhaps he¡¯s jealous that you¡¯re a disciple of our Peerless Peak.¡±

    Chen Fan nodded thoughtfully.

    Soon, disciples from three more major peaks¡ªStargazer Peak, Thunder Prison Peak, and Limitless Sky Peak¡ªarrived. The recruits were all top-tier geniuses, with their leaders exuding powerful auras simr to Qin Wang¡¯s.

    The major peaks had invested heavily in preparing their disciples, especially the monster-ss geniuses, for thepetition. They had even gone to great lengths to help them break through to the Heavenly Star realm in just half a year.

    Following the arrival of the people from the major peaks, the disciples of the weaker peaks quickly became more subdued, lowering their voices and keeping a low profile.

    Joining one of the nine major peaks was proof enough of their superiority¡ªa fact everyone had to ept.

    More wind breaking noises rang out. Immediately, the tform broke out into a mor.

    <i>Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh.</i>

    A group of graceful beauties descended, walking on what seemed like ripples of immortality, resembling fairies from the heavens. Each of them was stunning, among the most beautiful in the world.

    ¡°Look, the Lustrous Peak¡¯s members are here. I heard they only recruit female disciples, and it¡¯s true! They¡¯re all breathtakingly beautiful, the kind of women whose looks could topple kingdoms. It¡¯d be like winning in life if I could be a disciple there.¡±

    The arrival of the Lustrous Peak disciples instantly captured everyone¡¯s attention.

    ¡°Junior Brother, they are disciples of the Lustrous Peak. The saying that ¡®pretty women shouldn¡¯t be underestimated¡¯ holds true. See the one leading them?¡±

    As he spoke, Jian Qi cast a nce toward Di Chen.

    ¡°That¡¯s Nanhuang Shengge, the number one beauty of our True Martial Academy. Perhaps it wouldn¡¯t be a stretch to say she¡¯s the number one beauty in the entire eastern continent. <i>Ahem, ahem</i>, that... you don¡¯t know this, right? Let me tell you a secret. Second Senior Brother tried pursuing her in the past, but was given a beating...¡±

    Before Jian Qi could finish, he panicked and yelled, ¡°I was wrong, Second Senior Brother! I didn¡¯t say anything¡ªreally, not a word, ahhh...¡±

    Chen Fan smirked, ncing at Di Chen. He hadn¡¯t expected his Second Senior Brother to have such a history.

    But looking at Nanhuang Shengge, he could see why¡ªshe was truly stunning, a beauty capable of bringing down nations.

    Just then, Chen Fan heard Third Senior Sister Duanmu Lingxing¡¯s voice in his ear, ¡°Eighth Junior Brother, is Nanhuang Shengge pretty?¡±

    As soon as those words came out, Chen Fan immediately froze. His face twitched, looking at the smiling Duanmu Lingxing, and he hurriedly said, ¡°Third Senior Sister is the prettiest.¡±

    Duanmu Lingxing¡¯s smile brightened, and she patted his head.

    ¡°Good boy.¡±

    Chen Fan let out a long sigh, feeling like he had avoided a disaster.

    Jian Qi and Yan Weiyi, standing off to the side, subtly gave him a thumbs up, secretly impressed by his quick thinking.

    Wiping away the sweat on his forehead, Chen Fan thought to himself: women really were all the same, always sensitive about their looks. Even Third Senior Sister wasn¡¯t an exception. If he had said Nanhuang Shengge was pretty, he would have been in trouble.

    Chen Fan nced at the people from the Lustrous Peak and discovered that Qiu Yuexin was also among them, with seventh-level Divine Nascent realm cultivation. Although it was not considered top-notch, she definitely wasn¡¯tcking.

    It seemed that Lustrous Peak had also acknowledged her talent and strength.

    Not long after, the Unsheathed Peak, Great Cliff Peak, and Sky Origin Peak¡¯s rookie disciples also arrived. Each one of them had towering auras and boundless arrogance, looking down on the others as if they were superior.

    With all eight major peaks now present, they each imed arge area, their auras towering skyward as if they sought to dominate and suppress all others. Disciples from the eight peaks were sizing each other up, silentlypeting.

    For the Demon Hunting Competition, they only considered the other major peaks as real opponents,pletely overlooking Peerless Peak.

    After all, Chen Fan was the only representative from Peerless Peak, and they didn¡¯t see him as a serious threat.

    While the disciples of the eight peaks quietly plotted to determine who would stand out in the Little Demon Realm, the leading figures swept their gazes around, sternly searching for Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan felt a little helpless.

    It was one thing if those with grudges against him harbored hostility, but even those he had never crossed seemed to treat him like a thorn in their side. What was that all about?

    Could it be that he was too outstanding and was thus viewed with hostility?

 Chapter 695 - Little Demon Realm

    <h4>Chapter 695 - Little Demon Realm</h4>

    ¡°Junior Brother, you mustn¡¯t get careless in the Little Demon Realm. Once you are inside, don¡¯t try to fight the other rookies for a while. The realm has some opportunities, so search for them first to raise your level. After you reach the Heavenly Star realm, you can deal with them all,¡± Di Chen instructed.

    He had also noticed the animosity in the gazes of the other rookies looking at Chen Fan. They were all in the Heavenly Star realm. If they joined forces, Chen Fan would be at a disadvantage.

    Chen Fan¡¯s only weakness was his low cultivation level. So, if he could fix that, he would be invincible and could sweep through them with one hand.

    ¡°This, I know.¡±

    Chen Fan, as the target of their hate, was already nning on doing something simr.

    While they were talking, the wind rose and the clouds surged suddenly on the horizon. It seemed like a light from space-time had struck the void.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A power, far stronger than that of a Manifestation realm expert, fiercely prated heaven and earth and struck the depths of space-time. It was like the universe was being recreated, reversing heaven and earth. The space exploded in session, forming a huge vortex.

    Countless streams of demonic qi rushed out at once from the depths of that vortex. Billions of ghosts and gods howled. The demonic qi dispersed into the air, about to condense into demonic spirits.

    ¡°The Little Demon Realm is open!¡±

    ¡°For the Demon Hunting Competition this time, our Heavenly Bastion Peak must achieve number one again and solidify our position as the first of the nine peaks!¡±

    ¡°What intense demonic qi. It¡¯s almost like I can see billions of demons about toe charging out and wreak havoc.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd sensed the intense demonic qi radiating from the vortex and were all shocked.

    They were reminded that the world was not solely inhabited by humans but also by countless other races.

    Among them, the demon race stood as a particrly powerful and sinister force.

    It was said that the demon race came from hell itself, often referred to as the Hell Demon Race.

    This race was very cruel and loved invading other continental spaces.

    Legends told of a time when the Tianwu Continent faced a brutal invasion from the demon race, but in the end, the demons were annihted.

    Chen Fan now knew of the Thirty-Three Heavenly Domains of the Upper Realm¡ªa much more expansive world¡ªthat existed above the Tianwu Continent.

    The Little Demon Realm within the Tianwu Continent was a byproduct of an ancient war between the Thirty-Three Heavenly Domains and the Hell Demon Realm.

    The ancestors of the Tianwu Continent had used their immense powers to confine a fragment of a demon continent into the void, turning it into a battleground for training.

    Suddenly, an epic voice echoed from the depths of space-time, majestic and godlike.

    ¡°Today marks the beginning of the Demon Hunting Competition. I hope that all you rookie disciples will kill many demons and showcase the might of our True Martial Academy.¡±

    This deration embodied the foundation of the True Martial Academy as one of the nine overlord-ss forces of the Tianwu Continent¡ªa power that inspired awe and fear in equal measure.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Beams of rainbow light suddenly descended from the sky like torrential rain, transforming into countless tokens. Each rookie disciple participating in the Demon Hunting Competition received one.

    This was a Score Token.

    In the Little Demon Realm, killing a demon would award them with the corresponding points.

    The Score Token could automatically determine how many points a demon was worth and would tally the rankings when thepetition ended.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, the ground trembled as a towering crystal monument, ten thousand feet tall, descended from the sky. Its massive presence was awe-inspiring, like a mountain piercing the clouds, radiating an aura of vast majesty.

    This crystal monument could reflect the total score of the respective schools in real time, as well as the scores of the top ten thousand highest-scoring disciples.

    <i>What a grand scale!</i> Chen Fan sighed in his heart.

    The sheer scale of the event was beyond his wildest imagination, something akin to a miracle. Perhaps only Legendary realm peak experts could do something like this.

    Once again, that epic, godlike voice echoed through the void.

    ¡°Now that all participants have received their Score Tokens, the passageway to the Little Demon Realm is open. You will have six months to explore and hunt demons. Afterward, the passageway will reopen."

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Immediately, the countless disciples around the Demon Realm tform flew out like wasps leaving their nest, rushing toward the passageway in groups.

    The Little Demon Realm was filled with the demon race, with many Heavenly Star, Manifestation, and even Legendary realm demons.

    Although the True Martial Academy¡¯s experts had already sealed these powerful demons, there would always be those who managed to slip through the cracks.

    Thankfully, Manifestation realm and Legendary realm demons wouldn¡¯t appear, but the presence of Heavenly Star realm demons posed a serious threat, significantly increasing thepetition¡¯s difficulty.

    Aside from these powerful demons, there were also countless Divine Nascent realm and Core Formation realm demons.

    Ants could bite an elephant to death if there were as many as the stars. Even a Heavenly Star realm expert would have to flee miserably in the face of tens of thousands of Core Formation realm demons.

    It was a grim reminder that without absolute strength, it was safer to stick with a group.

    In this realm, death was final. The True Martial Academy wouldn¡¯t intervene to save anyone; thispetition was as much a test of survival as it was of skill, meant to filter out the weak.

    ¡°Junior Brother, be careful after entering the Little Demon Realm. No need to feel too pressured. Just do your best,¡± said Di Chen, patting Chen Fan¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>.¡± Chen Fan nodded.

    ¡°Go on.¡±

    Chen Fan rose from the group, mixing into the crowd. He overturned arge swathe of the nearby crowd with his extreme speed, bringing about a wave of shrieks and curses.

    ¡°That damned Chen Fan, he¡¯s like a hungry ghost rushing to reincarnate even when entering the Little Demon Realm. Damn it.¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, it can¡¯t be helped. He¡¯s just that strong. If you have that kind of strength and are a Peerless Peak disciple, you can also act this arrogantly and overbearingly.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, so what if he¡¯s from the Peerless Peak? With him alone, he¡¯ll definitelye inst ce!¡±

    ¡°So fast!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s too fast. I couldn¡¯t even react before he vanished. What kind of speed is this? I can¡¯t even grasp his aura. All I got was a mouthful of dust,¡± one disciple eximed, astonished.

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless experts entering the passageway were visibly shaken, their fear rising as they caught a glimpse of the faint stream of light that was Chen Fan. Even those who held grudges against him began to feel uneasy.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, the Little Demon Realm will be your grave!¡± The First Dragon Lord looked at Chen Fan as he rushed into the Little Demon Realm. An extremely icy killing intent shed across his eyes as he increased his speed.

    ¡°The Little Demon Realm will be your burial ce!¡± The First Fiend was also surging with killing intent.

    ¡°He¡¯s fast, but I wonder how strong he is?¡± The others¡¯ eyes flickered, sneering coldly in their hearts.

    As the flood of disciples poured into the depths of the passageway, Chen Fan had already vanished, far ahead of the crowd. Momentster, he reappeared in a dark and foreboding world.

    ¡°So, this is the Little Demon Realm. What intense demonic qi. Primeval qi is suppressed here, and the dark sky and ck earth are like hell.¡±

    Dark currents of demonic qi swirled everywhere, adding to the oppressive atmosphere.

    The entire realm was shrouded in darkness, devoid of sunlight. Gloom and cold pervaded the air, while the destendscape stretched out endlessly.

    There was no day or night here¡ªjust an eternal, bleak twilight.

 Chapter 696 - Hunting Demons

    <h4>Chapter 696 - Hunting Demons</h4>

    The Little Demon Realm was deste as far as the eye could see.

    Hellish ghost fires flickered everywhere, and the sky remained dusky, with no sign of day, night, or changing seasons.

    This was the true environment of the demon realm.

    Even skilled human martial artists felt ufortable in this harsh environment, let alone ordinary people with no chance of survival here.

    The harsh environment, however, made the demons here especially powerful. They also craved the favorable environment of the human world.

    For countless years, the demons of the Hell Demon Realm had sought ways to invade and im the human world, viewing humans as an inferior species, undeserving of such a good ce.

    Chen Fan stood in the Little Demon Realm, saturated with evesting demonic qi.

    The dark gold soil was hard, making him feel like he was walking on metal.

    "I''ll avoid the others for now. It would be bad for me if they surrounded me. Better to head deeper and see if I can find any opportunities.¡±

    He flickered and disappeared. Alone in the Little Demon Realm, he moved like a fish in water, making it nearly impossible to find him.

    The rookies from the other peaks were likely still moving as a group, so they could overwhelm him with their numbers. And while he didn¡¯t fear the other rookies, he was smart enough to know that he would be at a disadvantage if arge battle broke out.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo, woo...</i>

    A chilling wind blew, like sharp des shing on Chen Fan¡¯s protective true primeval, producing bursts of sparks.

    This chilling wind was the Wind of Avici, which was strong enough to kill a first-level Divine Nascent realm expert.

    The Little Demon Realm, though just a fragment of the Hell Demon Realm, was vast beyondprehension, its boundaries unseen.

    Suddenly, a massive demon appeared, sensing Chen Fan¡¯s presence amidst the sinister wind.

    This demon had two horns, like a bull demon. However, its horns were curved and forked, and its eyes were blood-red. At the center of its forehead, a third demonic eye, known as the Demonic Eye of Avici, continuously emitted the lethal Wind of Avici.

    This was an ancient bull demon, a powerful creature in the half-step Heavenly Star realm, and Chen Fan had unknowingly trespassed into its territory.

    The bull demon suddenly roared, cracking the space in all directions. An even stronger demonic wind appeared.

    Riding the chaotic waves of demonic qi, the bull demon raised its colossal hand, several clouds of chaotic demonic qi crackling on its hooves.

    ¡°Bull Demon Herculean Fist!¡± bellowed the demon in the ancient hell demon tongue, a savage martial art from the demon race.

    An intense Demonic Dao Will erupted from the demon, flooding the area with overwhelming demonic qi, shaking the very fabric of space.

    Its terrifying punches, ck as meteors, rained down upon Chen Fan, distorting the true primeval around them.

    Without even looking, Chen Fan sent out a palm strike.

    Northern Star Reaper Hand!

    This half-step Heavenly Star realm bull demon was stronger than Yuan Powang by more than just a notch or two.

    The demon race, naturally strong and born with formidable physiques, stood as one of the most powerful races. Their raw physical strength was unmatched, and they possessed incredible ferocity.

    While the human race was renowned for their intelligence, they were born weak, requiring meticulous cultivation to grow stronger.

    The human race¡¯s strength was their ability to learn and their potential.

    On the other hand, the demon race was born incredibly powerful, being Yuanfu realm experts at birth.

    The Northern Star Reaper Hand covered the sky, its three fingers were like three pirs of heaven capable of toppling the ages, sting toward the Bull Demon Herculean Fist.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With the bull demon as the center, the space in a five-kilometer radius crumbled and copsed, and the air went wild.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s palm strike dispersed almost all the demonic qi on the bull demon, sending it flying over ten kilometers away. It couldn¡¯t withstand Chen Fan¡¯s tremendous strength.

    Now that Chen Fan was in the eighth-level Divine Nascent realm and had alsoprehended the power of Martial Dao Will, he could fight against a Heavenly Star realm. A mere half-step Heavenly Star realm no longer posed a threat in his eyes.

    Having entered the Little Demon Realm to hunt demons and umte points, Chen Fan naturally couldn''t let this opportunity pass. So, he unleashed another palm strike.

    Cracks spread across the bull demon, extending to every corner until it shatteredpletely. All signs of life vanished in an instant, as the once-mighty demon met its end with no trace of vitality left behind.

    Next, Chen Fan surveyed the surroundings. This was a huge mountain range, dark and heavy, with countless bull demons thriving within it.

    ¡°This is an ancient mountain range.¡±

    When Chen Fan killed the half-step Heavenly Star realm bull demon, a swarm of smaller bull demons stirred. They belonged to the Divine Nascent realm or Core Formation realm and were clearly the descendants of the in demon.

    Although Core Formation realm demons were worth very few points, Chen Fan did not overlook them. No matter how small, mosquitoes were still meat.

    He raced through the ancient mountain range like a gust of wind, summoning the Heaven Seizing Furnace into the sky as the refining mes enveloped the world.

    A sea of mes would engulf every part of the mountain range he visited. All those little bull demons died to the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    Chen Fan felt a surge of points on his Score Token, and a scoreboard materialized in his mind. In no time, countless names appeared on the scoreboard, with scores continuously rising.

    He saw several mysterious figures at the top. Their scores were rising non-stop by the hundreds at a very fast speed. They were the leading figures of the various halls.

    Chen Fan had also racked up many points in the ancient mountain range, positioning himself within the upper echelons of the rankings, firmly in the top hundred.

    ¡°Although I¡¯m ranked within the top hundred in solo points, Peerless Peak¡¯s overall score has fallen outside the top hundred,nding at the bottom.¡±

    Chen Fan observed the cumtive scores of other halls surge. Their numerical advantage was undeniable, showcasing their dominance in thepetition.

    ¡°Haaa, if I want Peerless Peak to break into the top ten, I need to rack up a massive amount of points. I¡¯ve got to go on a killing spree!¡± Chen Fan eximed, shaking his head in frustration.

    For the other halls, their total score was the sum of hundreds, or even thousands of disciples, while the Peerless Peak¡¯s score was whatever Chen Fan had. There was simply no way topete.

    Still, Chen Fan was not in a hurry. Thepetition had just begun, and it wasn¡¯t stipted that one could not rob others of their points.

    He decided to let the otherpetitors gather their points first. Ultimately, all those points would belong to him anyway.

    With this thought, Chen Fan¡¯s mood lifted. He focused his gaze through theyers of demonic fog, seeing clearly for fifty thousand kilometers ahead.

 Chapter 697 - Asura

    <h4>Chapter 697 - Asura</h4>

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze pierced through theyers of fog, allowing him to see everything within fifty thousand kilometers.

    Yet, in the vast expanse of the Little Demon Realm, this distance was merely a drop in the ocean.

    Amidst those fifty thousand kilometersy numerous mountain ranges, each home to powerful demons of various species.

    Chen Fan used his divine will to provocatively sweep through the mountains, startling the formidable demons hidden within.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    About a dozen half-step Heavenly Star realm demons flew up simultaneously, rushing fiercely toward Chen Fan. Among them, there was a goat demon, a hell python demon, a ming bronze demon, a toxic bone demon, and a ughter demon, all masters of their territories, leading bands of Divine Nascent realm demons.

    ¡°Good timing!¡± Chen Fan eximed, unfazed by the iing assault. Instead, excitement sparked in his eyes as he soared into the sky like a golden meteor, cutting through the air.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan crashed into the half-step Heavenly Star realm demon at the front, a goat demon. The impact didn¡¯t kill the demon. Its flesh and blood squirmed and reformed, but Chen Fan wasted no time. The Heaven Seizing Furnace descended upon it.

    Next, Chen Fan cut a hell python demon in half with his halberd. Pitch-ck demon blood spurted out, and a miserable cry echoed across several dozen kilometers.

    With a whip-like kick, Chen Fan engaged the strongest toxic bone demon in a fierce physical fight, his strike cracking the demon''s powerful ck bones inch by inch.

    Thanks to the furnace, Chen Fan didn¡¯t fear the toxic bone demon¡¯s terrifying poison. The Heaven Seizing Furnace spun, turning the poison to ash.

    Chen Fan opened his mouth and roared like an enraged dragon-elephant. The ming bronze demon cracked open, erupting into a ball of mes that sent it hurtling back ten thousand meters. Its mes flickered dangerously, as ck demon blood spewed out.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    In the blink of an eye, Chen Fan had heavily injured about a dozen half-step Heavenly Star realm demons and killed a goat-like demon. He turned that demon into pure energy and absorbed it.

    His aura surged into the sky, wild and unstoppable, making him resemble a killing god charging through the battlefield.

    The Divine Nascent realm experts apanying these powerful demonscked the same life force as their leaders, falling easily to Chen Fan¡¯s onught. He descended upon them like a ferocious tiger from the mountains or a hawk swooping down on rabbits.

    Pitch-ck demon blood fell like pouring rain. It was aplete massacre.

    The gap between a half-step Heavenly Star realm and a genuine Heavenly Star realm was so vast that it was like an unbridgeable chasm. So, if he could fight Heavenly Star realm experts now, what did these demons count for?

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>, human, you¡¯re courting death. You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    The toxic bone demon and the other demons seethed with fury as Chen Fan ughtered their kin. Demonic mes flickered around them, their anger boiling over.

    The demon race was inherently cruel and loved battling; they would not retreat just because Chen Fan was stronger. Despite their injuries, they charged at him with reckless abandon, eager to retaliate.

    ¡°Haha, good, juste at me.¡± Chen Fanughed, embodying the invincible god of battle as he faced heaven and the earth. Wielding the Purgatory Divine Halberd, he swung it with might, unleashing deadly lights that illuminated the dusky Little Demon Realm.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯sbat prowess was unrivaled, sweeping through unchecked.

    Even with about a dozen half-step Heavenly Star realm demons joining forces, they couldn¡¯t shake him in the slightest and were killed instead.

    One demon, two demons, three demons...

    Chen Fan did not give them a chance to recover.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace expanded furiously, refining the demons Chen Fan had killed. It turned them into the purest vitality essence that made Chen Fan¡¯s aura continuously boil and stronger.

    Soon, the majority of the half-step Heavenly Star realm demon expertsy in. Though these demons were fearless, they trembled in shock at Chen Fan¡¯s relentless ughter.

    The demons had intelligence. They had realized that experts from the True Martial Academy woulde in and hunt them as training all year round.

    Yet, they had never met someone as terrifying as Chen Fan before. An eighth-level Divine Nascent realm could actually kill half-step Heavenly Star realm demons like he was ughtering poultry. It simply sent a chill down the demons¡¯ spines.

    When Chen Fan killed the toxic bone demon, the toughest of his foes, a terrifying aura suddenly erupted from the distance.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The powerful aura formed a monstrous wave that crashed over him.

    ¡°Human, how dare you kill my subordinates. You will hear the crunch of your bones as I eat you!¡± An icy, menacing voice echoed as a gigantic demon expert approached, crossing the space with terrifying speed.

    This was a demon from the Asura n¡ªan aristocratic ss in the Hell Demon Realm ruling over many of the lower demon species.

    The Hell Demon Realm had Nine Great Royal ns, and the Asura n was the most noble aristocratic ss under the Nine Great Royal ns.

    These aristocratic demons had noble bloodlines. Thus, they were born very powerful.

    Take the Asura n, for example. A newborn little asura would already be a Core Formation realm expert.

    Adult asuras were basically Heavenly Star realm and Manifestation realm experts.

    Further up, the great asuras would be Legendary realm or even greater existences.

    This demon was a freshly matured asura and was already in the Heavenly Star realm. Its aura radiated terror.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect an asura like you to be the king of this fifty-thousand-kilometers territory. Hehe, that¡¯s fine. Those useless subordinates of yours were only good enough for a warm up. It¡¯s perfect now that you¡¯vee. A Heavenly Star realm demon gives a lot of points!¡±

    Chen Fan felt no fear; instead, excitement surged through him at the prospect of facing the asura. He hadn¡¯t used his full strength against the demons before.

    Now, with this Heavenly Star realm asura before him¡ªnot considered overly powerful¡ªhe had found the ideal opponent for the moment.

    The asura immediately sensed the insult to its dignity at Chen Fan¡¯s im of using him for practice.

    ¡°Human, you¡¯re too arrogant!¡±

    To the Asura n, the human race was nothing but ves and food¡ªpigs and dogs they could kill at will.

    ¡°Arrogant? So what if I am? Today, I¡¯ll use you for practice!¡± He didn¡¯t waste time; before his voice faded, he charged straight at the asura.

    A terrifying fist force cut through the sky like a meteor, carrying a dangerous aura, sweeping through heaven and earth.

    ¡°Ahhh, human, you damned swine, how dare you make a move against the noble asura, you¡¯re courting death!¡±

    The asura couldn¡¯t contain its anger. With a roar, it unleashed a devastating demonic palm, shattering Chen Fan¡¯s fist force into pieces.

 Chapter 698 - Score Skyrockets

    <h4>Chapter 698 - Score Skyrockets</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    This asura was thoroughly enraged. Chen Fan¡¯s audacity had dealt a severe blow to the demon''s pride.

    He was a noble asura demon, an aristocratic n thatmanded billions of lesser demons. To them, humans were nothing more than disposable ves or livestock meant to be consumed.

    A ve like Chen Fan daring to attack him was a capital offense. Balling his fists, he punched at Chen Fan.

    He was using Asura Fist, an extremely superior fist art passed down through the bloodline of the Asura n.

    Legend had it that the very primogenitor of the asuras had created this technique, using it to conquer vast territories of the Hell Demon Realm, securing the Asura n¡¯s noble status.

    Though the true essence of the Asura Fist had diminished over time, it remained a formidable and destructive force.

    Combined with the Asura n¡¯s natural physical prowess¡ªone of the strongest in the Hell Demon Realm, surpassed only by the Stone and Bone ns¡ªthe attack was terrifyingly potent.

    Yet, Chen Fan fearlessly faced the attack. He stepped forward with his fists clenched tight, unleashing several streams of terrifying golden fist force.

    Though the asura¡¯s physique was fearsome, Chen Fan¡¯s body was equally formidable.

    His Hegemonic Golden Body, a supreme cultivation technique refined by the small golden person within him, was unmatched in its toughness and strength.

    It could be called a cultivation technique modified by a deity, a divine-tier cultivation technique. Its might was unparalleled as if the heavens had personally refined the art.

    <i>Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang...</i>

    The human and the demon''s punches shed wildly, like steel smashing against steel. The sound of metal colliding rang out repeatedly, with sparks flying everywhere.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± roared the asura furiously.

    He couldn¡¯t believe that this young human was so powerful. Despite having a lower cultivation level than his subordinates, the youth fought him head-on without losing any ground.

    Even his prized Asura Body couldn¡¯t gain the upper hand against Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body.

    On the contrary, each of Chen Fan¡¯s strikes felt like they carried the weight of a mountain, shaking the asura¡¯s qi and blood.

    Chen Fan punched again and crushed the asura¡¯s fingers. Blood sprayed into the air as the demon was sted back five thousand meters.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    <i>Crack!</i>

    An asura¡¯s¡¯ physique was indeed unparalleled and very powerful, but Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body was even more overbearing, suppressing the opponent¡¯s Asura Body.

    ¡°Asura, it seems that you¡¯re not that strong either,¡± Chen Fan said with a smile, looking at the furious asura from a distance.

    The relentless battle thrilled Chen Fan, giving him the chance to unleash the full might of his Hegemonic Golden Body.

    ¡°Ah, you lowly human, lowly worm, how dare you look down on me, Xiu Yi. You¡¯ll regret this. You regret this!¡± roared the asura angrily, his bloodshot eyes burning with hatred. Being insulted by a human was an unbearable humiliation.

    Rings of demonic qi instantly boiled over around him, surging.

    That raging demonic qi formed a pitch-ck staff, engraved with mysterious and flickering hell demon runes.

    This was a divine weapon, known as the Asura Staff.

    ¡°Lowly worm, you have angered a noble asura. I won¡¯t let you off. You¡¯ve angered me deeply, and it¡¯s far toote for regret!¡±

    With the Asura Staff in hand, this asura¡¯s aura peaked. His roar echoed across fifty thousand kilometers, a sign of his towering rage.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze froze, and his eyes became sharper.

    ¡°How dare you, a filthy human, kill my people in my domain and insult the noble Asuras n. Today, I must use your fresh blood to wash away your sins!¡±

    ¡°Cut the nonsense, you sinful beast. You think you can beat me just by throwing out some threats? Don¡¯t make meugh.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s face twisted with disdain.

    This asura was even more long-winded than most humans.

    ¡°You damned lowly worm. You¡¯re asking to die. I¡¯ll rip out your soul and burn it with hellfire until it vanishes into nothingness!¡±

    The asura spun the Asura Staff with earth-shattering force. The entire space rippled and the sounds of ghosts wailing and wolves howling rang out as he ruthlessly thrust it toward Chen Fan.

    Heaven and earth changed colors, and wails sounded miserable, enough to terrify the faint-hearted into death.

    The Asura Staff moved horizontally, appearing before Chen Fan in a sh.

    A silent sound wave invaded Chen Fan¡¯s mind. He saw a mountain of corpses and a river of blood. The imagery tried to affect Chen Fan¡¯s state of mind.

    Those with weak wills would have their minds shattered instantly, their heads crushed on the spot, dying tragically.

    But none of this had any effect on Chen Fan.

    The asura didn¡¯t stand a chance of shaking Chen Fan¡¯s will. With the small golden figure guarding him, this kind of mental assault was nothing more than a child¡¯s game¡ªpathetic in front of a true master.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    Chen Fan raised his hand and shed out. The Purgatory Divine Halberd shed through the world, colliding fiercely with the Asura Staff. With a rumble, the space copsed, and the air currents surged wildly.

    Chen Fan and the asura were pushed back simultaneously.

    But they halted their backward momentum quickly, their strength exploding again as they charged fiercely at each other, shing violently.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    A series of deafening explosions rang out.

    The sky darkened, and the earth trembled as the two fought.

    Though the asura was in the Heavenly Star realm, Chen Fan¡¯sbat power was equal. Neither side was willing to give an inch. The terrifying impacts of their strikes sent shockwaves across heaven and earth, splitting thend beneath them.

    Chen Fan only grew more fierce with each blow, his aura swelling to an overwhelming degree. Without the slightest reservation, he brought out his full strength, and soon, he suppressed the asura, beating him back. Demon blood spurted wildly.

    His attacks became relentless, shing with untamed ferocity.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    He cleaved the Asura Staff; in the next instant, the asura was cleaved in half, his blood gushing uncontrobly.

    However, the asura was still not dead. Heavenly Star realm experts had a strong life force. He struggled to fuse the two halves of his body back together, but it was hopeless.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace descended, enveloping him and refining him with relentless force. The asura¡¯s agonized screams filled the air as he begged for mercy.

    Chen Fan was not moved in the slightest.

    Soon, the asura demon was refined to his death and his soul dissipated.

    Meanwhile, in the outside world, Chen Fan¡¯s score on the crystal scoreboard skyrocketed.

    In the time it took for incense to burn, his name shot to the top of the solo leaderboard.

    At this moment, countless experts around the Demon Realm tform were looking at the crystal scoreboard.

    Names constantly shifted and jumped, but when they saw Chen Fan¡¯s name surge to first ce in one leap, the crowd was stunned, and an uproar immediately broke out.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 699 - Where is Chen Fan?

    <h4>Chapter 699 - Where is Chen Fan?</h4>

    When Chen Fan killed the asura, his score skyrocketed.

    About an incense¡¯s worth of timeter, it rushed to first ce on the solo board. Peerless Peak''s ranking also skyrocketed from below one hundred to the top thirty in an instant.

    This sudden shift left countless experts on the Demon Realm tform stunned.

    They watched the names flicker on the crystal scoreboard, some vanishingpletely¡ªa clear sign that those experts had fallen. The Little Demon Realm wasn¡¯t a paradise, but a deadly battlefield where death was inevitable.

    ¡°Look, that¡¯s Chen Fan. My god, his score¡¯s rising so quickly. It¡¯s jumping non-stop, and he¡¯s already hit first ce on the solo board!¡±

    More people noticed the spike in Chen Fan¡¯s ranking.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? How did his points suddenly skyrocket? Did he kill several Heavenly Star realm demon experts?¡±

    ¡°This is absolutely impossible! Sure, he¡¯s a genius, but taking on multiple Heavenly Star realm demons? That¡¯s suicide¡ªhe¡¯d be the one dead!¡±

    ¡°Then what¡¯s going on here?¡±

    ¡°I know! So many names disappeared just now. He must¡¯ve ughtered them. He didn¡¯t target demons¡ªhe went after his fellow disciples instead. He¡¯s a demon spy, no doubt about it!¡± Xiao Qianhe from the Law Enforcement Hall immediately cast a vicious, underhanded usation.

    As soon as the words left his mouth, the faces of many disciples from different halls darkened. It seemed usible to them¡ªhow else could Chen Fan¡¯s score rise so fast?

    ¡°Di Chen, what do you guys say? Instead of hunting the demon race, Chen Fan attacked his fellow disciples. He¡¯s simply a demon reincarnate, the scum of our True Martial Academy. We must kill him across space right now and remove this tumor!¡±

    The Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people tried to make things difficult for Di Chen.

    ¡°Cut your bullshit, Xiao Qianhe! Even if my junior brother did kill those weaklings, they deserved it. They were just a bunch of trash, wasting space while they lived." Di Chen¡¯s voice was domineering, filled with contempt.

    His words immediately provoked outrage from the other halls, and they all began to rebuke him.

    Unfazed, Di Chen sneered, ¡°Shut up, all of you! Do you think I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re plotting? You hate to see our Peerless Peak¡¯s monstrous genius doing well, and you sent people into the realm to take down my junior brother. Fine by me¡ªif they can kill Chen Fan, that¡¯s their strength. But if they fail, then your people are nothing but losers. True Martial Academy doesn¡¯t need to waste resources on weaklings."

    The crowd seethed in anger, but Di Chen simply smiled coldly, unwilling to argue further.

    They were all very happy to see Chen Fan soaring to first ce on the crystal scoreboard. Peerless Peak itself had surged into the top thirty.

    This was what being a disciple of Peerless Peak meant.

    In the Little Demon Realm, many experts also noticed the changes on the scoreboard. Seeing Chen Fan¡¯s meteoric rise to the top, they were all stunned.

    In a mountain range, the First Dragon Lord had just in several half-step Heavenly Star realm demons and was holding a bloody head in his hand. He roared furiously, ¡°Damn it, what on earth is going on? How did that little bastard Chen Fan¡¯s score shoot past mine?"

    Next to him were many disciples from the Law Enforcement Hall.

    The First Dragon Lord did not enter any of the nine major peaks. Instead, he directly entered the Law Enforcement Hall.

    The Law Enforcement Hall was strong enough that they could be considered the tenth peak.

    Many rookie disciples wanted to join the Law Enforcement Hall, but they were very strict in their recruitment, second only to the Peerless Peak.

    He was now a Heavenly Star realm expert. Earlier, he was ranked within the top ten, but Chen Fan had surpassed him, iming first ce.

    This turn of events nearly made the First Dragon Lord, who held a deep grudge against Chen Fan, spit blood in frustration.

    He ¡°stared¡± fixedly at Chen Fan¡¯s name in his mind, wishing he could swallow him whole.

    ¡°Has no one found Chen Fan¡¯s whereabouts yet?¡± asked the First Dragon Lord coldly, ring at the Law Enforcement Hall disciples around him.

    A blond man with a very high nose, a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert, said, ¡°Not yet. That brat is moving alone. He¡¯s like a fish in the sea, so finding him is proving to be very difficult.¡±

    ¡°All the brothers of the Law Enforcement Hall have spread out. They¡¯ll immediately notify us once they discover his tracks. We¡¯re also in contact with the other peaks, but no one has found Chen Fan¡¯s tracks so far.¡±

    The First Dragon Lord took a moment to calm himself and said, ¡°Tell them to locate him as soon as possible. It will be even harder to kill Chen Fan if he finds some opportunity and raises his cultivation level.¡±

    Though short-tempered by nature, he became increasinglyposed when handling significant matters.

    In addition to the First Dragon Lord, other prides of heaven like the First Fiend and Qin Wang were also searching everywhere for Chen Fan. Their search for him had only intensified after seeing his new ranking. Rage had gotten into everyone¡¯s heads.

    These people ordered all disciples participating in the Demon Hunting Competition to search for Chen Fan. If they found Chen Fan and reported his location, they would receive ample rewards after thepetition.

    As a result, many began searching for Chen Fan¡¯s whereabouts while hunting the demon race.

    Although they did not have any deep grudge against Chen Fan, who would refuse a chance for benefits?

    They only needed to provide information. As long as Chen Fan remained unaware, they faced no danger. It was a task with significant rewards and minimal risk.

    For some time, the entire Little Demon Realm was in turmoil.

    Countless individuals were on the hunt for Chen Fan, casting a vast that left even the smallest fish nowhere to hide.

    Chen Fan remainedpletely oblivious to this turmoil.

    After killing the asura, his score soared wildly, and an exhrated expression spread across his face.

    He let out a thunderous roar that echoed across the fifty thousand kilometers ofnd, killing everything in his path.

    He killed Half-step Heavenly Star realm demons and even a Heavenly Star realm asura. The remaining useless troops weren¡¯t a match for him at all. Thends were washed with a river of blood.

    ¡°Excellent, the energies of about a dozen half-step Heavenly Star realm demons and an asura are enough for me to break through to the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm!¡±

    Without hesitation, Chen Fan sted arge hole in the mountain range and dove inside, entering seclusion to advance to the next level.

    He could already kill a recently advanced Heavenly Star realm expert. Once his cultivation level advanced, he would only be stronger. Then, he wouldn¡¯t even be afraid to fight the First Dragon Lord or the other top geniuses in the Heavenly Star realm.

    Although the asura was powerful, he was still much inferior whenpared to geniuses like the First Dragon Lord.

    Chen Fan could kill the asura, but he might not be a match for the First Dragon Lord and the others. Thus, he had to raise his cultivation further.

 Chapter 700 - Lending a Helping Hand

    <h4>Chapter 700 - Lending a Helping Hand</h4>

    While countless people were searching for Chen Fan, the man in question had already entered seclusion to raise his cultivation level.

    Ten days went by in a sh.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    On this day, a mountain range exploded, sending debris flying as a figure emerged, radiating a terrifying aura that shook the very fabric of space. This figure was none other than Chen Fan.

    He had spent thest ten days refining the asura and the other demons¡¯ vitality essence, which helped him advance to the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Moreover, his Chaos Will had devoured the asura¡¯s will to strengthen itself.

    ¡°Excellent. I didn¡¯t expect my dao will to possess such an attribute. Doesn¡¯t that mean that in the future, I can just kill the Heavenly Star realm experts and directly devour their Martial Dao Will to strengthen my own?¡±

    A gleam of amusement sparkled in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as he contemted the newfound power of his dao will.

    ¡°Now that I have broken through to the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, my dao will is also much stronger. Even monstrous geniuses in the Heavenly Star realm, like the First Dragon Lord, are probably no match for me now.¡±

    Chen Fan sprang into action, tearing through the air as he soared into the distance.

    During his ten days of seclusion, he hadn¡¯t earned a single point, causing him to plummet from first ce to below the top twenty on the leaderboard.

    He headed deeper into the Little Demon Realm like he was taking a casual stroll.

    In the distance, an army of over a thousand powerful demons, under the leadership of a Heavenly Star realm asuramander, were shouting as they closed in on a group of True Martial Academy disciples. Clouds of dust rolled, and the shouting shook the sky.

    On top of a mountain peak, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze was like a torch. He quickly uncovered the demon army¡¯s n.

    ¡°Demon army!¡± The army only had disciplined and very powerful Divine Nascent realm demon experts.

    The movements of this demon army were synchronized; their formations were structured, and theirmands were executed with precision. This was a well-trained force, with the capability to take down even a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    For disorganized martial artists, a disciplined demon army posed the greatest threat.

    The very existence of such an army suggested that there was a demon kingdom within this territory, and potentially more than one.

    The asura demon Chen Fan had killed in that mountain range had imed it as his territory¡ªperhaps this was an asura kingdom.

    The establishment of a demon kingdom indicated immense power.

    Furthermore, the disciplined approach of this demon army, advancing and retreating with coordination, revealed that they were an iron-blooded force with expansive battle experience.

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze sharpened as he recognized several of the True Martial Academy disciples trapped at the center of the chaos.

    For example, the me King Xiao Yan. He was already in the half-step Heavenly Star realm but could definitely fight against a genuine Heavenly Star realm expert. He was the strongest among the trapped disciples.

    He heard that Xiao Yan had joined the Heavenly Bastion Peak, but he was not the most exceptional recruited by them this time. The standout among them was the top genius of the Zhen Road, Qin Wang.

    Chen Fan had seen Qin Wang before; he was already in the Heavenly Star realm.

    Aside from Xiao Yan, he also caught sight of some Hong Domain martial artists like Qiu Yuexin, Xiao Zhen, and Li Yao.

    Once considered top geniuses, they now found themselves reduced to meremoners at the True Martial Academy, their strength relegated to the upper-middle tier within this terrorized group.

    The group also had many eighth and ninth-level Divine Nascent realm and even half-step Heavenly Star realm disciples.

    Currently, Li Yao and the others were stuck at the seventh level, a step behind the others in the group.

    The group was valiantly holding off the advancing demon army, led by Xiao Yan and a few half-step Heavenly Star realm experts.

    Yet, Chen Fan could tell it wouldn¡¯t be long before they were overwhelmed. Once the demons broke through, only the strongest among them would likely survive.

    This demon army¡¯sbat strength was powerful, effectively pinning down Xiao Yan and the others.

    It was clear they had encountered this trap while hunting demons; their intersection in this location was no mere coincidence.

    With this, Chen Fan gained a new understanding of the demon race.

    Despite their savage nature, they exhibited a notable level of intelligence, cleverly orchestrating a scheme to lure in and wear down the True Martial Academy disciples.

    Although they were surrounded by the demon army, the situation wasn¡¯t dire just yet.

    After all, everyone in this group was a genius. They were all among the best, with outstanding strength.

    Mediocrity had no ce in the True Martial Academy.

    However, as that Heavenly Star realm asuramander joined in the battle, the situation immediately took a sharp turn for the worse. The group of people quickly fell into a disadvantage, and some disciples were killed by the demons.

    Although Xiao Yan and the others could resist the Heavenly Star realm, that was the limit of their abilities. Defeating such an opponent was beyond their abilities.

    Moreover, Chen Fan could tell that this asuramander was much more powerful than the one he had previously killed. Despite sharing the same cultivation level, this one was at least twice as strong.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, how troublesome. I didn¡¯t want to get involved, but it seems I don¡¯t have a choice.¡± Chen Fan shook his head helplessly.

    Although Chen Fan did not have much affection for the rest, he held a soft spot for Xiao Zhen, Qiu Yuexin, Li Yao, and the others from the Hong Domain. They had fought together before, and Chen Fan wasn¡¯t about to stand by and let them die at the hands of demons.

    ¡°Hang on, everyone. I¡¯ve already sent out a distress signal. People should being to our rescue soon,¡± Xiao Yan said loudly, boosting the morale of the crowd.

    Suddenly, a thunderous roar echoed from the distance, growing louder and more menacing, like a tidal wave crashing down.

    "A bunch of wretched demons dare to set a trap for our human elites? Prepare to die!"

    Immediately afterward, a radiant sh cleaved through the sky and earth, cutting through the gloomy world faster than light itself.

    This streak of halberd light instantly rushed into the midst of this demon army.

    The once orderly ranks of the demon army crumbled instantly, torn apart by the force of the halberd. Where it passed, demons fell in droves, in on the spot.

    The asuramander sent Xiao Yan and the other flying away with a punch. The demonic qi around him swelled, his killing intent rising to the sky. He turned his fierce gaze toward the source of the halberd light.

    ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°Me!¡±

    Chen Fan strode over. The space seemed to shrink under his feet. In the blink of an eye, he arrived in the sky above this battlefield.

 Chapter 701 - Displaying His Divine Might

    <h4>Chapter 701 - Disying His Divine Might</h4>

    ¡°Me!¡± Chen Fan stepped forward, and the space beneath him seemed to contract instantly. He quickly appeared in the sky above the battlefield.

    ¡°Chen Fan, it¡¯s Chen Fan!¡± Xiao Zhen and the others recognized him immediately, shouting in disbelief.

    ¡°It really is Chen Fan!¡±

    The rest, having heard of Chen Fan''s reputation and seen his portrait, quickly recognized him as well.

    Among them, one person discreetly sent word of Chen Fan¡¯s appearance, their movements hidden beneath a casual gesture.

    Xiao Yan and the other half-step Heavenly Star experts also looked at Chen Fan, their expressionsplex¡ªnone more so than Xiao Yan.

    Like Chen Fan, he had once walked the Gen Road as a rising genius. When Chen Fan was still unknown, Xiao Yan''s title of me King had already shaken the Gen Road, cing him on par with figures like the First Dragon Lord.

    He had even crossed blows with Chen Fan in the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm. However, Chen Fan had devoured his primeval mes, deeply shocking him.

    Though they hadn¡¯t met since then, Xiao Yan knew of Chen Fan''s journey, how he carved a bloody path through relentless pursuit, gaining fame that now echoed across the world.

    And Chen Fan had even caused a stir on the Peerless Peak after entering the academy.

    Xiao Yan felt a lot of emotions in his heart. The same thoughts weighed heavily on Li Yao, Gongsun Zhong, and others, who had known Chen Fan even longer.

    From being about as strong as them two years ago, Chen Fan had now left them in the dust.

    That was especially true for Li Yao, a descendant of Emperor Li and a proud son of heaven who had always stood above the rest. In the Hong Domain, he could look down on all martial artists from the same generation.

    He was the first of the younger generation to step into the Divine Nascent realm, and now, at the eighth level of that realm, he was considered incredibly powerful.

    Chen Fan, however, was already at the ninth level. Even more astonishing, he could fight half-step Heavenly Star experts when he was only at the seventh level. The speed of his growth left Li Yao in disbelief.

    ¡°Lowly human, how dare you sneak attack our honorable demon army?! You deserve to die!¡±

    The asuramander¡¯s eyes, asrge as copper bells, narrowed as he noticed Chen Fan''s cultivation level. Despite sensing that Chen Fan was even more dangerous than Xiao Yan and the others, he still believed Chen Fan couldn''t possibly match him.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that exact sentence more times than you can count. Just ten days before, an asura, one just like you, said the same thing before I killed him. You will follow him soon." Chen Fan casually picked his ear, clearly unimpressed by themander¡¯s threat.

    The asuramander flew into a rage and said, ¡°Insect, what did you say? You were the one who killed Xiu Yi in the mountain range? You damned insect, how dare you?!¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I? Now, I dare to kill you too," Chen Fan replied with a smirk.

    ¡°Ahhh, you lowly worm, I¡¯ll kill you!¡± roared the enragedmander, his Asura Staff surging with demonic qi, smashing toward Chen Fan with the force to crush heaven and earth.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly, unfazed. He reached into the void, condensing a true primeval hand that collided with the asuramander¡¯s attack.

    The earth shook, the mountains swayed, and the stars crumbled at once.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The asuramander was twice as powerful as Xiu Yi, yet Chen Fan, now at the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, shattered his killing move with a casual strike. His terrifying power sent themander flying.

    <i>Woah!</i>

    The crowd below gasped in disbelief. That powerful asuramander, a Heavenly Star realm expert, had been the key to holding them back.

    Without him, they would have already broken through the demon army. It was because of his strength that they had been trapped and forced to call for outside help.

    However, Chen Fan had sent someone that powerful flying with one move. The shock left them speechless, their jaws practically kissing the ground.

    How strong was Chen Fan?

    He wasn¡¯t even at the half-step Heavenly Star realm, yet he sent the asuramander flying with a casual palm strike¡ªeven genuine Heavenly Star realm martial artists couldn¡¯t do that.

    ¡°How terrifying! It¡¯s no wonder he could be the eighth disciple of the Peerless Peak. He¡¯s too monstrous.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? This asuramander is one of the strongest at the first-level Heavenly Star realm. Most first-level experts wouldn''t be able to stand against him, yet Chen Fan swept him away like it was nothing. That¡¯s too terrifying.¡±

    ¡°And he is only in the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. How strong will he be in the Heavenly Star realm? Birds of a feather indeed flock together. The Peerless Peak guys are all super freaks.¡±

    ¡°Forget about that. Chen Fan resolved our crisis. Quickly kill these demons!¡±

    ¡°Right, kill the demons!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd quickly turned the tide of battle. Moments earlier, they had been struggling under the relentless pressure of the demon army, barely holding on.

    With Chen Fan suppressing the asuramander, the burden on them eased dramatically, allowing them tounch a counterattack.

    With Xiao Yan and several other half-step Heavenly Star realm geniuses around, the demon army was beaten back in a sh, copsing in disarray.

    ¡°You damned lowly worm. How could you be so strong!¡± shouted themander in disbelief. Chen Fan had thoroughly humiliated him.

    Chen Fan smiled faintly, ¡°I am not strong; you¡¯re just too weak.¡±

    ¡°Damn human, you¡¯re insulting the noble Asuras. Die, die, die!¡± roared the asuramander furiously like a maniac. His demonic qi surged, boiling and burning as he charged at Chen Fan again.

    His staff swept across the sky with the force of a demon god on a rampage, destroying an area of the starry sky in a single sweep.

    ¡°Demon Sweeps the Universe!¡±

    Air currents howled and exploded violently, but Chen Fanughed, unfazed.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    ¡°A little demon like you still dares to act tough. Die!¡± He strode forward, unshaken by the monstrous force, like an immovable boulder.

    He unleashed the Great Brahma Sacred Palm. A gigantic golden palm lit up the darkened sky as it swept across.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    The Great Brahma Sacred Palm destroyed the asuramander¡¯s attack.

    The gigantic golden palm continued sweeping over, copsing the air. With a loud boom, the asuramander exploded.

    ¡°Ah, how is this possible!¡± his horrified voice echoed as he was annihted by Chen Fan''s palm strike. The sheer terror of being destroyed so effortlessly was beyondprehension.

    ¡°Demon sinner, die!¡±

    Chen Fan cast out the Heaven Seizing Furnace, taking in the asuramander¡¯s flesh and blood and refining it right away.

    In a matter of moments, the asuramander that had ruled in the Little Demon Realm for countless years was annihted by Chen Fan with little to no effort.

 Chapter 702 - Chen Fan Has Appeared

    <h4>Chapter 702 - Chen Fan Has Appeared</h4>

    While Chen Fan effortlessly dispatched the asuramander, leaving the crowd in shock, the news of his appearance spread rapidly.

    ¡°Chen Fan has appeared!¡±

    Thousands of kilometers away from Chen Fan and the others:

    A youth with a gloomy expression and an intense dragon might emerged. This was the First Dragon Lord.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good. This little bastard has finally shown himself. He deserves to die, damn it. He killed my second and third brothers, and now he¡¯ll pay with his life!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s killing intent surged, shaking heaven and earth. The disciples from the Law Enforcement Hall around him trembled in fear, hastily lowering their heads.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± hemanded, immediately abandoning the demons they had surrounded. He shot toward Chen Fan¡¯s location at a blinding speed, like a meteor streaking across the sky, desperate to reach him.

    In a distant canyon, another signal flew over, caught by a man d in ck robes and shrouded in nefarious qi.

    ¡°Chen Fan has been located!¡±

    They shook and the aura of a Heavenly Star realm expert erupted.

    ¡°Big Brother, we found Chen Fan?¡±

    At once, several figures in ck emerged with half-step Heavenly Star realm auras. Shrouded in nefarious qi, they looked terrifying. This group was none other than the remaining members of the Seven Fiends Organization.

    Back when Cao Yuan, the fifth fiend, tried to seize opportunities in the Sky Dragon Divine Stronghold¡¯s microcosm, Chen Fan killed him as a warning, marking the first death of a well-known figure at his hands.

    The seven fiends weren¡¯t actually brothers, but they had grown up together, closer than real brothers. Naturally, they would not let Cao Yuan¡¯s death go unanswered.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve confirmed Chen Fan¡¯s whereabouts," the First Fiend said icily.

    ¡°Then what are we waiting for? Let¡¯s go over right away and ughter that damned little bastard to avenge Fifth Brother!¡± said the Second Fiend with overflowing killing intent. The nefarious qi around him was boiling.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. We must chop off that little bastard¡¯s head, dig out his divine nascent, and roast him for a century. We¡¯ll teach him what it means to have his soul shattered!" The other fiends joined in, their bloodlust growing.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. Chen Fan might be strong, but together, we¡¯ll kill him!¡± A bloody light shed in the First Fiend¡¯s eyes as they soared into the sky, tearing through the air toward their target.

    Meanwhile, the news of Chen Fan¡¯s appearance spread like wildfire through hidden channels. Though it started as a secret, it quickly became an open one, with word passing from one person to another.

    ¡°I wonder who¡¯s lucky enough to have found Chen Fan. With this, the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others will surely reward them handsomely!"

    ¡°No one found him; he just showed up. A group got surrounded by a demon army, and he stepped in to help.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Someone in that group repaid kindness with enmity and sold Chen Fan out?¡±

    ¡°Hehe, it can¡¯t be helped. The First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others have all offered generous rewards. It¡¯s understandable that someone would betray him.¡±

    ¡°Now that the news of Chen Fan¡¯s appearance has spread, let¡¯s go check it out.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Most people who heard the news quickly moved toward Chen Fan¡¯s location.

    ......

    ¡°How terrifying. He killed a Heavenly Star realm asuramander so easily!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? The Asura n is an aristocratic n of the Hell Demon Realm and is very powerful. They are outstanding among those in the same level, but in Chen Fan¡¯s hands, they seem no different from ants, killed in just a few moves.¡±

    ¡°Na, the asuramander wasn¡¯t weak. That Chen Fan is just too strong!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder the Peerless Peak took an interest in him and epted him as a disciple. He truly lives up to his reputation.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    When the crowd saw Chen Fan kill the asuramander, everyone sucked in a breath of cold air. Not even Xiao Yan and the other half-step Heavenly Star realm geniuses were exceptions.

    They were elites among geniuses, famous on the Ancient Trial Roads, and powerful enough to fight against Heavenly Star realm experts with only half-step Heavenly Star realm cultivation.

    However, that asuramander had suppressed them firmly, but Chen Fan had effortlessly killed him.

    They were even doubting themselves. Was the gap between them and Chen Fan really that big?

    After killing that asuramander, Chen Fan was like a ferocious tiger descending the mountain, rushing toward the demon army, massacring the demons like he was chopping vegetables.

    The demon army, already beaten by Xiao Yan and the others, was terrified by the death of their asuramander, and their morale plummeted.

    Chen Fan joined the mix and went on an unstoppable killing spree. He swept through the demon ranks with his halberd; they couldn¡¯t withstand his overwhelming divine might.

    Soon, this demon army was decimated.

    ¡°Hahahaha, how delightful. These demon scums actually lured us with a trap, wanting to devour us like dumplings. Luckily you came in time, or we would have suffered heavy losses.¡± Xiao Zhenughed loudly as he approached Chen Fan, clearly pleased.

    Just as Chen Fan was about to speak, his expression darkened, and he gazed skyward.

    The winds and clouds surged in the sky; suddenly, a Flood Dragon Spear shot toward him, carrying a terrifying aura and power that pierced through space, zipping violently toward Chen Fan.

    Simultaneously, a cold shout resounded in space.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you son of a bitch, you killed my second and third brothers. Today will be the day you die!¡±

    The Flood Dragon Spear was like a pir from the sky, racing toward him at breakneck speed.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The air exploded inch by inch, with explosions ringing out continuously like firecrackers. The shockwaves disoriented those with weaker cultivations, leaving them dizzy and struggling to stand.

    A terrifying pressure instantly descended, confining space with an overwhelming force that froze even Xiao Zhen in ce.

    Despite the sudden killing intent, Chen Fan showed no signs of panic, his eyes icy and his movements unaffected. He raised his hand and struck out with a powerful punch.

    <i>Boom, thump!</i>

    The space shook violently. A stream of terrifying fist force sted out like a meteor.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The fist force and the oing Flood Dragon Spear collided fiercely. Terrifying noises rang out, shaking the earth. Air currents swept out like gales, bombarding thend and sending many people flying, their screams piercing the chaos. The impact cracked the ground beneath them.

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan''s punch sent the Flood Dragon Spear spiraling away. A hand reached out from the void, grabbing the spear and revealing a figure.

    The First Dragon Lord had arrived.

 Chapter 703 - You Will Die!

    <h4>Chapter 703 - You Will Die!</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A mass of primeval qi exploded, and the sonic waves pulverized the surrounding space. The Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people had also surrounded Chen Fan.

    The powerful First Dragon Lord¡¯s gaze locked onto Chen Fan, exuding a monarch¡¯s presence and thick murderous qi, like a pack of ferocious tigers cornering a mouse.

    ¡°Chen Fan, no one can save you today. I want you dead with no burial ce!¡±

    Murderous qi surged from the First Dragon Lord, sweeping through the air, and making everyone tremble in fear. He was like an enraged lion, wanting to tear Chen Fan apart. There was definitely no way out for Chen Fan.

    Xiao Zhen¡¯s expression changed drastically when he saw the neers. He roared furiously, ¡°Why are the First Dragon Lord and the people from the Law Enforcement Hall here? Who leaked Chen Fan¡¯s location?¡±

    ¡°Who betrayed him? Step forward, you unscrupulous scum!¡± Xiao Zhen scanned the crowd, seething with rage.

    Someone had to have leaked Chen Fan¡¯s location; otherwise, the First Dragon Lord¡¯s party wouldn¡¯t have arrived so quickly.

    Many others shared his reaction. They held no grudges against Chen Fan¡ªin fact, he had just saved them. Yet now, one of them had betrayed him by revealing his location. It was vile.

    Although the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others¡¯ offers were very tempting¡ªto the point that even they had debated betraying Chen Fan¡ªas martial artists, they still had a sense of honor.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Chen Fan asked, puzzled.

    Xiao Zhen replied with an ugly expression, ¡°You don¡¯t know? The First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others have offered very generous rewards for your location. Whoever finds you gets a heavy reward."

    ¡°The First Dragon Lord¡¯s party arrived right after you appeared. Someone must have sold you out. I¡¯m afraid the First Fiend, Qin Wang, and the others are rushing here as we speak.¡±

    Chen Fan had just disyed deeply unfathomable strength by killing the asuramander. However, the First Dragon Lord and the First Fiend were the most outstanding figures on the Ancient Trial Roads, and they had already advanced into the Heavenly Star realm, far surpassing the asuramander in power.

    If these people joined hands and surrounded Chen Fan, no matter how strong Chen Fan was, he wouldn''t stand a chance against them.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression also sank at once. He had wondered how the First Dragon Lord found him so quickly¡ªsomeone had betrayed him.

    ¡°Chen Fan, anyst words? Thisnd, right below my feet, will be your grave!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord held his Flood Dragon Spear in hand, emitting a very terrifying aura. Even without moving, his presence alone was suffocating¡ªa true monstrous genius.

    ¡°Kill me? With just you?¡± Chen Fan looked at the First Dragon Lord indifferently.

    The First Dragon Lord was indeed very powerful. Not even ten asuramanders could match him. He could even fight with a second-level Heavenly Star realm expert.

    However, he still wasn¡¯t qualified to kill Chen Fan.

    Suddenly, another cold voice rang out.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, if the First Dragon Lord can¡¯t, then count me in.¡±

    A pitch-ck stream of light shot in at an incredible speed, unleashing a wave of shocking nefarious qi.

    With that, several figures appeared; the six from the Seven Fiends Organization were here.

    Someone immediately recognized the neers and fear overtook them.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Seven Fiends Organization!¡±

    The Seven Fiends Organization was the strongest force on the Kan Road, and their seven fiends, now six, were the most outstanding geniuses, each with remarkable talent and their own fortuitous encounters.

    For instance, the Fifth Fiend, Cao Yuan, whom Chen Fan killed, had inherited the legacy of the Demon Venerable Chaotic Heaven¡¯s legacy.

    All seven of them were very powerful. After entering the True Martial Academy, they all joined the Limitless Sky Peak.

    Of the six of them, the First Fiend was already a Heavenly Star realm expert, while the other five fiends were all half-step Heavenly Star realms.

    The First Fiend¡¯s cold gaze fell on Chen Fan, and he said, ¡°Chen Fan, you killed my fifth brother. No one can save you today¡ªnot even if immortals descended!¡±

    Looking at the First Fiend, Chen Fan¡¯s gaze narrowed slightly.

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes, recognizing another expert of the First Dragon Lord¡¯s caliber. The other five fiends matched Xiao Yan¡¯s level.

    This Seven Fiends Organization was indeed very terrifying. Their strength was even above that of the Dragon God Army, which now only had the First Dragon Lord.

    Sweeping his gaze across the First Fiend, the First Dragon Lord, and the others, not a hint of fear could be seen on Chen Fan. He said with an indifferent look on his face, ¡°Adding all of you together, you¡¯re almost enough to fight me. But if you wish to kill me, you still don¡¯t have the qualifications!¡±

    The onlookers were shocked by Chen Fan¡¯s promation.

    Thebined forces of the First Dragon Lord, the Law Enforcement Hall, and the six from the Seven Fiends Organization formed a terrifying power that could easily massacre them.

    However, in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, the two major forcesbined could only fight him. What kind of arrogance and dominance was that?

    ¡°I admit that Chen Fan is very powerful, but isn¡¯t he a little too arrogant? The First Dragon Lord and the Seven Fiends Organization are trying to kill him!¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, he is a Peerless Peak freak for sure. They are all super freaks, so he just might have the strength to back it up.¡±

    ¡°Whether that¡¯s true or not will be clear soon. Although Chen Fan saved us, we just can¡¯t step into a battle of this level. The Law Enforcement Hall and the Seven Fiends Organization could wipe us all out easily.¡±

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, I think it won¡¯t be just these two forces. I¡¯m afraid more people will being!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Sure enough, right at this moment, a lightughter rang out.

    ¡°Hoho, the arrogance of the Peerless Peak¡¯s people indeed knows no bounds!¡±

    A man in long golden robes crossed the sky, exuding a kingly aura that was both overbearing and powerful.

    ¡°It¡¯s Qin Wang!¡±

    ¡°My god, howe even Qin Wang is here!¡±

    ¡°Does he also have a grudge against Chen Fan?¡±

    Many recognized this man in golden robes. He was Qin Wang, the pride of heaven from the Zhen Road, who had joined the Heavenly Bastion Peak and was personally taken in by the Peak Master.

    Chen Fan looked at Qin Wang, narrowing his eyes slightly.

    ¡°You¡¯re Qin Wang, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Although Qin Wang was also in the first-level Heavenly Star realm, just like the First Dragon Lord and the First Fiend, Chen Fan could sense that he was much stronger than the two.

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Qin Wang replied, his hands at his back as he calmly looked at Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°I don¡¯t believe we¡¯ve crossed paths before, have we? You want to make a move on me as well? Is my Seventh Senior Brother right? Are you just jealous of my talent and monstrous genius as a Peerless Peak disciple, feeling indignant and seeking revenge?¡±

    Icy killing intent shed across Qin Wang¡¯s eyes as if Chen Fan had struck a nerve. He spat out three words coldly, ¡°You will die!¡±

 Chapter 704 - Great Battle Against the Fierce Warriors

    <h4>Chapter 704 - Great Battle Against the Fierce Warriors</h4>

    Chen Fanughed disdainfully upon hearing Qin Wang. Waving his arm, he pointed the Purgatory Divine Halberd toward Qin Wang and the others and said with boundless dominance, ¡°Come on! I alone am enough to kill you!¡±

    Before Chen Fan¡¯s voice faded, the First Dragon Lord darted forward. His Flood Dragon Spear shot out like a flood dragon rising from the sea, shatteringyers of space as if it could pierce the universe itself.

    Standing beside Chen Fan, Xiao Zhen felt his mind sink into an abyss, overwhelmed by the murderous qi radiating from the spear.

    ¡°You? Shameless boasting!¡±

    This violent stab from the First Dragon Lord could kill a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    Despite looking ordinary, the attack contained the Great Dao, turningplexity into simplicity. It discarded any unnecessary ir, concentrating the spear¡¯s power into a single, devastating point, leaving no room for retreat.

    Unfazed, Chen Fan met the attack head-on, swinging his halberd.

    ¡°Get back!¡±

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The space emitted a dull, furious roar, shattering instantly as waves of qi surged back with indescribable momentum.

    Chen Fan, who had long since mastered countless martial skills through reading countless books, unleashed an attack rivaling even an earth-tier martial technique.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The ear-piercing sound of metal shing rang out.

    In the blink of an eye, the fierce First Dragon Lord was sent flying backward, while Chen Fan stood firm, unmoved.

    The winner had been decided in an instant!

    The crowd erupted in disbelief.

    ¡°Is this for real? The First Dragon Lord¡¯s attack couldn¡¯t even shake Chen Fan. My god, it¡¯s no wonder he¡¯s so arrogant.¡±

    ¡°This is too terrifying. As expected of a freak of the Peerless Peak. The First Dragon Lord can¡¯t even force him to take a step back.¡±

    The First Dragon Lord was known as one of the most dazzling talents among the rookies, personally chosen as a disciple by a higher-up of the True Martial Academy. He was bound to shine brightly and be a higher-up of the True Martial Academy.

    He was a seed with the potential to reach the Legendary realm. But despite his exceptional status, he couldn''t even make Chen Fan flinch. Instead, he had been thrown back with overwhelming force.

    This was too terrifying, almost beyondprehension.

    The First Dragon Lord staggered to steady himself, his face alternating between green and white, his expression dark with frustration.

    He hadn¡¯t expected to be so thoroughly overpowered. The brutal force from Chen Fan¡¯s counterattack still surged through him, making it difficult to suppress.

    The First Fiend and Qin Wang¡¯s expressions also changed slightly.

    They knew how powerful the First Dragon Lord was, and wouldn¡¯t underestimate him. But seeing him suffer a crushing defeat at first contact, their hearts grew heavy.

    The atmosphere grew tense as they realized they could no longer take Chen Fan lightly.

    Chen Fan rose into the air, his fighting spirit boiling and burning. His clothes fluttered loudly, looking like a peerless god of battle, gazing down on them disdainfully.

    ¡°You people,e at me together!¡±

    His arrogant words resounded through space, shaking the hearts of countless people.

    Many people were stirred by this sentence, their blood boiling.

    His boldness, even when surrounded by formidable warriors, exuded a heroism that was almost intoxicating.

    Here was a man who stood tall, unyielding, facing down some of the strongest geniuses as though they were beneath him.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯re too unruly!¡± said the First Fiend as he charged toward Chen Fan, wrapped in terrifying nefarious qi.

    The massive ck ax in his hands crashed down with the force of an unstoppable avnche, threatening to tear the air apart.

    In an instant, the air exploded violently.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    A powerful aura descended, pressing down like several mountains.

    Chen Fan looked up and swung the Purgatory Divine Halberd, cutting through everything and sending the First Fiend flying. The First Fiend couldn¡¯t even resist.

    ¡°I already told youe at me all at once, you worthless lot!¡± Chen Fan said with a look of contempt, his aura soaring, his words striking like thunder.

    To him, the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, Qin Wang, and the others were just a bunch of weaklings.

    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Qin Wang roared, stepping forward. A heavenly halberd appeared in his hands, slicing the air with a terrifying arc and crashing down with thunderous force.

    ¡°Perfect timing!¡± Chen Fan grinned, eagerly meeting the attack with a violent thrust of his weapon.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their auras collided, creating a massive explosion that shook the sky. Layer uponyer of energy erupted with deafening booms as shockwaves swept out like an unstoppable tide.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    ¡°Die for me!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord and the First Fiend rushed in again with shocking killing intent. Every strike was deadly, causing the scalps of the onlookers to go numb.

    The Law Enforcement Hall members and the other five fiends joined in, unleashing their attacks in a frenzy.

    Suddenly, the sky filled with a blinding mix of divine light. Thousands of dazzling forces flew through the heavens, each capable of devastating destruction.

    ¡°Royal Dao Divine Fist!¡± Qin Wang punched out fiercely with his left fist. A terrifying golden fist light tore through heaven and earth, sting toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Petty tricks!¡± Chen Fan sneered, swinging the Purgatory Divine Halberd. He cut through space itself, destroying every attack in his path.

    Those Law Enforcement Hall members and the other five fiends¡ªall rtively weaker¡ªgot cleaved at the waist, screaming miserably.

    ¡°So terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, Chen Fan is too strong, fighting all these fierce warriors alone!¡±

    ¡°I feel like my heart is about to leap out of my mouth!¡±

    The eyes of the crowd below trembled at the scene. Their hearts pounded heavily as if they were about to jump out of their chests.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    The First Fiend charged forward, swinging his blunt, edgeless ck ax directly into Chen Fan¡¯s back. The impact made Chen Fan stagger, tearing tendons and shattering bones, leaving a deep, bloody gash that spurted blood nonstop.

    However, as Chen Fan staggered, he retaliated with a sweep of the Purgatory Divine Halberd, nearly splitting the First Fiend in half at the waist. Blood sprayed wildly in the air.

    Seizing the moment, the First Dragon Lord lunged toward Chen Fan¡¯s head, roaring, ¡°Chen Fan, pay for my second and third brothers¡¯ lives!¡±

    Chen Fan dodged, but the spear still pierced his shoulder, leaving a gaping bloody hole.

    ¡°Then you go join them in hell!¡±

    His eyes shing with fury, Chen Fan punched with his left hand, unleashing the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture. The First Dragon Lord¡¯s tendons snapped, and his bones shattered as he plummeted from the sky like a bird with broken wings.

    <i>C!</i>

    Suddenly, Qin Wang appeared, his halberd silently slicing through space toward Chen Fan¡¯s head. If itnded, not even Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body could save him from being decapitated.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly. A streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi erupted, breaking apart Qin Wang¡¯s attack.

    The terrifying force continued shing toward Qin Wang, causing his expression to turn dark. He shoved his left palm out fiercely and repeatedly.

    Several palm seals flew out, wearing out the remaining power of the Green Lotus Sword Qi. By this time, Qin Wang had already retreated ten thousand meters away.

 Chapter 705 - Bad Situation

    <h4>Chapter 705 - Bad Situation</h4>

    <i>Hiss, hiss!</i>

    Below, everyone in the crowd sucked in a breath of cold air when they saw Chen Fan fighting one against many. Even though he had received rather heavy injuries, the First Dragon Lord and the others hadn¡¯t escaped unscathed either.

    It was too terrifying.

    Chen Fan was truly too terrifying!

    Any one of the three, the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the Qin Wang, could easily sweep through experts at the same cultivation level.

    Yet, even with all threebining their strength, alongside numerous half-step Heavenly Star realm experts, they still couldn¡¯t overpower Chen Fan.

    The sheer power he disyed shocked the crowd.

    After forcing Qin Wang ten thousand meters back, Chen Fan swept out again with the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    The half-step Heavenly Star and high-level Divine Nascent realm martial artists were sliced apart, their bodies exploding in sprays of blood. Agonized screams echoed as the battlefield was drenched in carnage.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s eyes turned vicious and cold. The Heaven Seizing Furnace expanded furiously, swallowing those people.

    ¡°Ahhh, no, no, let me go, spare my life!¡±

    Their pitiful cries for mercy echoed from within the furnace, sending chills down the spines of everyone watching

    The remaining martial artists¡ªpale and trembling¡ªstaggered back in horror, helplessly listening to theirpanions¡¯ dying screams fade into silence.

    They knew the truth: those inside were gone¡ªdead.

    Everyone became terrified at once.

    It turned out that death was so close to them.

    Chen Fan, drenched in blood, stood tall and unshaken. His aura burned as fiercely as ever. His gaze, cold and disdainful, swept over the battlefield as he raised his halberd and roared, ¡°Who dares to fight me?¡±

    The crowd trembled.

    Qin Wang, the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others¡¯ expressions were all incredibly ugly.

    So many of them were besieging Chen Fan alone, yet they couldn¡¯t bring him down. Instead, Chen Fan had killed quite a number of them.

    A storm erupted on the Demon Realm tform as the crowd watched the names on the crystal scoreboard change rapidly. Many names vanished simultaneously, signaling a wave of deaths.

    ¡°They¡¯re dead! They fell so quickly, one after another! They were all from the Law Enforcement Hall. Their very souls were destroyed. Heavens, who could have done this?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Chen Fan. Just now, Chen Fan¡¯s score skyrocketed once more. Chen Fan must have killed them and seized their points.¡±

    The crowd erupted in chaos, especially the members of the Law Enforcement Hall, whose expressions turned grim, dark as storm clouds, ready to explode with rage.

    Many people¡¯s names disappeared in that one instant earlier. Most of them belonged to their Law Enforcement Hall. They were dead. All those people were dead.

    In the Little Demon Realm, the First Dragon Lord and the others looked at Chen Fan with hatred, wishing they could kill him immediately.

    A mocking voice cut through the tension.

    ¡°Qin Wang, I guess all that bragging about being a once-in-a-century genius was just lies. Look at youpletely useless! You let one person beat you down while you had so many allies. How shameful!¡±

    Another voice rang out.

    ¡°Right, right.¡±

    A third voice rang out.

    ¡°It seems we came at the right time.¡±

    In the next moment, several figures crossed over.

    The three leading figures were all Heavenly Star realm experts. They were all exceptional pride of heavens who were on par with Qin Wang, the First Dragon Lord, and the others.

    ¡°Hong Jun, Ye Wushuang, Liu Zong!¡±

    The crowd gasped in shock at the sight of the three neers¡ªsome of the most exceptional geniuses from the Ancient Trial Roads.

    Hong Jun, a burly man nearly two meters tall, looked terrifying with his bulging muscles and bronze skin that gleamed like steel. He radiated explosive power.

    Ye Wushuang, d in white, carried an ancient sword on his back. Fierce sword qi swirled around him, giving him the air of a sword immortal poised to strike.

    Liu Zong looked ordinary but had a unique aura. Starry light flickered around him, and his eyes, like two universes, seemed to contain endless mysteries.

    Chen Fan furrowed his brow slightly and said, ¡°I have feuds with you people too?¡±

    Hong Jun shook his head and said with a smile, ¡°No feuds. But you''re at Peerless Peak, and everyone¡¯s calling you the greatest genius of the eastern continent in the past hundred years. Naturally, we feel indignant. Killing you will prove we¡¯re stronger!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. If you want to me someone, me the Peerless Peak!"

    Chen Fan felt helpless. So, they wanted to kill him just because he represented Peerless Peak?

    It seemed Jian Qi was right¡ªPeerless Peak members were the enemies of the entire world.

    ¡°Forget it. Whatever your reason, if you want to kill me, you''re an enemy. It won¡¯t matter if all three of you fight me together. So,e at me together!¡± Chen Fan said, his fighting spirit high, his aura overwhelming.

    ¡°Haha, I heard you have an unrivaled physique. Mine isn¡¯t too bad either. Let me see how good you are!¡± Hong Junughed out loud, crushing over like a mountain. The ground trembled with each step, and his punch came down with earth-shattering force.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan Chen roared, unleashing a punch to meet the attack head-on. The impact sent Hong Jun flying, but Chen Fan was also forced back a few steps.

    Before Chen Fan could steady himself, Ye Wushuang made his move.

    ¡°Receive my sword!¡±

    Ye Wushuang¡¯s ancient de shed from its sheath, and a terrifying sword light cleaved through the air, threatening to split the heavens.

    With a casual wave of his hand, he unleashed a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi, destroying Ye Wushuang¡¯s attack.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    Liu Zong, forming a seal with both hands, summoned a cluster of starry lights. A massive star materialized and sted toward Chen Fan with overwhelming force.

    ¡°Starfall!¡±

    Chen Fan channeled his qi and shed out with his halberd, splitting this star in half. However, the immense force caused Chen Fan to cough up blood, and he was once again forced back several steps.

    Below, Xiao Zhen could no longer contain his anger. ¡°Damn it, these people are too shameless, ganging up on one person. Fight him one on one if you¡¯re so capable!¡±

    In the distance, atop a mountain peak, a graceful figure watched the battle unfold. She was tall, with an ample chest and a shapely figure, her long hair tied in a ponytail. Her red outfit entuated her curves, and she stood silently, observing the chaos from afar.

    This woman¡¯s red lips curled slightly upward, and she said mockingly, ¡°<i>Tch</i>, Qin Wang, Hong Jun, and the others are really shameless. They want to kill him to prove to him that they are better, but none of them dare to fight him one-on-one. What a joke.¡±

    Huo Ling¡¯er was a legendary figure on the Li Road, effortlessly overshadowing all the geniuses and keeping them in check, none daring to challenge her dominance. She had joined the Lustrous Peak.

    Another woman, equally beautiful but with a gentle demeanor, smiled warmly and said, ¡°Ling¡¯er, Senior Sister has instructed you to teach Chen Fan a lesson if you meet him.¡±

    Huo Ling¡¯er replied, ¡°I know. I heard the Peerless Peak¡¯s second disciple tried to pursue Senior Sister Nanhuang and was beaten up. I wonder if that¡¯s true.¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯s most likely true.¡±

    ¡°Right, right.¡±

    Soon, the group of Lustrous Peak disciples began gossiping excitedly, their voices buzzing with enthusiasm as they exchanged stories about Nanhuang Shengge and Di Chen.

 Chapter 706 - Evening Star Golden Storm

    <h4>Chapter 706 - Evening Star Golden Storm</h4>

    The crowd was astonished.

    Qin Wang, Hong Jun, the First Dragon Lord, and the others were the peerless geniuses of this generation¡ªprides of heaven who stood at the peak of an era, blessed with great fortune and opportunities.

    Entering the academy was liketent dragons diving into the sea, promising limitless future achievements.

    They hade here with numerous experts ranging from eighth-level Divine Nascent to the half-step Heavenly Star realms to do one thing: kill Chen Fan.

    Astonishingly, they didn¡¯t seem to be winning. Chen Fan was resisting them with his lonesome strength.

    Countless gazesnded on Chen Fan.

    It was no surprise that Peerless Peak had chosen him as a disciple¡ªhe was far more fearsome than Qin Wang and the others. In a one-on-one fight, who among them could possibly defeat him?

    Chen Fan, an unmatched talent in his generation, stood tall at the center of the encirclement. Even in the face of such a situation, his fighting spirit was still as high as ever, standing tall and straight.

    Hong Jun, Ye Wushuang, and Liu Zong¡¯s faces darkened.

    They had each attacked him earlier, only to be countered effortlessly, leaving them inwardly shocked.

    Before even arriving at the True Martial Academy, Chen Fan had already made a name for himself by scaring off Yuan Powang, a half-step Heavenly Star realm powerhouse.

    They had all heard that tale. Back then, they had been at the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. So, Yuan Powang was not that big of a threat to them either.

    Thus, they also did not worry about Chen Fan too much.

    However, after entering the True Martial Academy, Chen Fan became a disciple of the Peerless Peak, leaving them feeling infuriated.

    They believed that they were more outstanding and powerful than Chen Fan. So, why did the Peerless Peak take in Chen Fan?

    Moreover, they didn¡¯t even want to join the Peerless Peak, but the peak¡¯s actions made it clear: Chen Fan was the most outstanding of this batch, and the others weren¡¯t deemed worthy.

    For these naturally arrogant talents, that was unbearable.

    In their opinion, the Peerless Peak should have at least tried to rope them in, even if they intended to refuse. Ignoring them outright was an insult.

    As a result, Chen Fan became their target¡ªnot out of personal grievance, but to prove they were stronger, to show that Peerless Peak had made the wrong choice.

    Chen Fan¡¯s sharp gaze swept over, and his voice resounded through the heavens. "You think killing me will prove your superiority? Are you even worthy?"

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s eyes were iparably gloomy.

    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s strike together and kill him!¡±

    His desire to kill Chen Fan wasn¡¯t about proving strength but avenging the Second and Third Dragon Lords. He knew he couldn¡¯t do it alone and needed help. Thus, his only choice was to join hands with others to kill him.

    Chen Fan¡¯s power was undeniable.

    He was already this terrifying before even entering the Heavenly Star realm. The First Dragon Lord did not dare to imagine how much more dangerous Chen Fan would be after breaking through.

    Knowing they were enemies, he couldn¡¯t allow Chen Fan to live and grow stronger. He had to be eliminated before it was toote.

    ¡°Kill me? I¡¯ll kill you first!¡±

    Chen Fan suddenly sprang into motion, rushing toward the First Dragon Lord. His terrifying aura shook heaven and earth, tearing through the sky as he shed out with his halberd, destroying everything.

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s expression changed drastically, caught off guard by his sudden attack. The attack was so terrifying that it made the First Dragon Lord smell the aura of death.

    He immediately activated his true dragon bloodline. His aura boiled over, and he stabbed out with his Flood Dragon Spear. It transformed into a savage flood dragon eager to tear Chen Fan to pieces.

    ¡°Annihte!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned sharp. With a sweep of his arm, he knocked the dragon back, forcing it to revert to the spear. Then, with a powerful sh, he sent the First Dragon Lord flying, blood spraying into the sky.

    However, instead of pursuing the kill, Chen Fan activated the Wings of Rain Dragon and tore through the atmosphere, slipping through the opening he had forced.

    He knew facing all six geniuses head-on would be reckless. Now wasn¡¯t the time for that.

    ¡°A bunch of losers. Wait till I advance into the Heavenly Star realm¡ªthen you¡¯ll die!¡±

    ¡°Damn it, he¡¯s running away!¡±

    ¡°After him!¡±

    Qin Wang, the First Fiend, and the others roared in fury, their faces twisting with anger.

    Everything had happened too quickly¡ªbefore they could react, Chen Fan had already sent the First Dragon Lord flying and broken free from their encirclement.

    Immediately, the First Fiend, Qin Wang, and the others chased after Chen Fan. They could not let Chen Fan escape.

    Chen Fan was already rmingly powerful. If he advanced to the Heavenly Star realm, it would spell disaster for them¡ªa terrifying one at that. They would be no match for him even if they joined hands.

    They had already offended Chen Fan; they couldn¡¯t let him get out alive.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    Immediately, Qin Wang and the others turned into streams of light, tearing through the atmosphere in furious pursuit of Chen Fan.

    On the distant mountaintop, Huo Ling¡¯er was momentarily stunned to see Chen Fan flee.

    ¡°He¡¯s escaping!¡±

    Judging by Chen Fan¡¯s aura earlier, she had expected him to fight Qin Wang and the others to the end. It turned out to be a feint.

    The crowd below also stood nkly in ce, noting back to their senses yet as they watched their figures disappearing into the horizon.

    ¡°This...¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan must have realized he couldn¡¯t match the siege of the six geniuses and was in danger of losing his life, so he feigned an attack to escape.¡±

    ¡°I wonder if he will be able to make it out.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan was very fast, but Qin Wang and the others were geniuses in the Heavenly Star realm with advanced movement arts. So, they weren¡¯t any slower than him.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you won¡¯t escape!¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, even if you fled to the ends of the world, I¡¯ll chase you until you¡¯re dead!¡±

    Behind him, the shouts of the First Dragon Lord, the First Fiend, and the others could be heard.

    Chen Fan ignored it and flew toward the depths of the Little Demon Realm, flitting ten thousand meters away in the blink of an eye.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Suddenly, whistling noises filled the air, and he spotted a golden hue in the distance. However, this gold radiated an unusually dangerous aura¡ªit was a storm.

    ¡°That is... an Evening Star Golden Storm!¡± [1]

    Chen Fan was also dumbfounded when he saw the golden storm of immeasurable width.

    The Evening Star Golden Storm ahead was like a golden wall, whistling toward him. No matter which direction he went, he couldn''t avoid it.

    It was too terrifying. It seemed to envelop the entire Little Demon Realm.

    With pursuers behind him and the storm blocking his path, Chen Fan found himself in a desperate situation.

    1. Based on the Heavenly Stem or Celestial Stems. It¡¯s a system of ordinals indigenous to China and used throughout East Asia. Most prominently, they have been used in conjunction with the associated set of twelve Earthly Branches in thepound sexagenary cycle, an important feature of historical Chinese calendars. In astrology and feng shui, the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches form the four pirs of Chinese metaphysics in Qimen Dunjia and Daliuren. ?

 Chapter 707 - Fleeing into the Storm

    <h4>Chapter 707 - Fleeing into the Storm</h4>

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo.</i>

    The wind whistled sharply as heaven and earth trembled.

    The world in front of Chen Fan had turned golden; the Evening Star Golden Storm had seemingly engulfed the entire Little Demon Realm.

    Jian Qi and the other seniors had warned Chen Fan about some of the realm¡¯s natural disasters, including this very storm.

    The Evening Star Golden Storm was one of the more terrifying natural disasters here.

    For martial artists, especially powerful martial artists like Chen Fan, ordinary storms were mere strong gusts of wind. However, the Evening Star Golden Storm was different.

    But this storm was different. Even a Heavenly Star realm expert would feel chills because the storm wasposed almost entirely of evening star gold qi. Every wisp of evening star gold qi wasparable to a divine weapon, capable of slicing through a martial artist¡¯s protective primeval energy and tearing them to shreds.

    Not even Manifestation realm experts could escape easily from a mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm, let alone those below their level.

    ¡°It¡¯s an Evening Star Golden Storm!¡±

    ¡°My god, it¡¯s a mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm. Even a Manifestation realm expert would avoid this. If we get caught in it, we¡¯ll be torn to pieces.¡±

    ¡°What do we do? Are we still chasing?¡±

    ¡°Chase? Who would dare? Do you have a death wish? Let¡¯s block the way here. Chen Fan¡¯s only choice is to retreat. Once he does, we¡¯ll strike together and take him down, then leave immediately.¡±

    ¡°Alright, it¡¯s decided!¡±

    At the back, Qin Wang, the First Dragon Lord, and the others were shaken when they saw the storm ahead, like hell descending on a city.

    Though proud, they couldn¡¯t ignore the danger of such a natural disaster.

    They quickly decided to stop and block Chen Fan¡¯s retreat. Whether he pressed forward or turned back, death awaited him. They were determined not to let him live.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The Evening Star Golden Storm ravaged heaven and earth, its terrifying momentum, sweeping over with lightning speed. The deafening noise could simply make one faint.

    It was as if hell itself was tearing through the three thousand realms, leaving no survivors.

    Chen Fan sensed their movements behind him and cursed their cunning.

    Trapped between the storm and his enemies, he had no way to advance or retreat.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish. Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    As the storm closed in, the sharp air scraped against his protective primeval energy, producing a harsh rattling sound.

    ¡°Evening Star Golden Storm, Evening Star Golden Storm...¡± Chen Fan muttered, his eyes flickering as he stood still, watching the storm approach.

    Behind him, Qin Wang and the others taunted him.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you have nowhere to run. Give yourself up!¡±

    They would rather kill him themselves than see him die in the storm.

    He ignored these people. As the Evening Star Golden Storm approached, its sharp aura grew stronger.

    ¡°I¡¯ll risk it all! Wealthes from taking risks. The Evening Star Golden Storm might be a terrifying disaster for others, but for me, it¡¯s an opportunity! If I can absorb the evening star gold qi within and survive, my Hegemonic Golden Body will improve by leaps and bounds!¡±

    His Hegemonic Golden Body had reached level 6 but had been stagnant for a long time. Improving it was far more difficult than advancing in the Myriad Elephants Divine Art. The further he progressed, the harder it became.

    To strengthen it quickly, he would need to absorbrge amounts of metal-attribute treasures like metal spirit veins, metal primeval water, true dragon blood, et cetera.

    Naturally, evening star gold qi counted too.

    However,pared to metal-attributed treasures like metal spirit veins, the evening star gold qi was far more aggressive¡ªrazor-sharp and dangerous.

    Infusing treasures with this qi would enhance their grade, making them deadlier and sharper.

    Had it just been a small or even medium-scale Evening Star Golden Storm, Chen Fan would have darted straight into the storm to absorb the evening star gold qi.

    But this was a mega-scale storm, and even he wasn¡¯t confident about facing its overwhelming power, despite having an incredibly tough physique.

    The bigger the storm, the more terrifying its power.

    The evening star gold qi was already sharp enough to easily pierce through a Grade-5 treasure with ease, the tearing force of this mega-scale storm could shred Heavenly Star realm experts to pieces.

    Honestly, he was sure that Qin Wang and the others couldn¡¯t easily capture him even if he retreated. However, he hesitated because he didn¡¯t want to give up on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

    After an intense internal struggle, Chen Fan decided to gamble. The danger was oundish but so was the reward for surviving it,

    Resolute, he made his move. His figure blurred as he flew directly toward the storm.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°What¡±

    ¡°What is he doing?¡±

    ¡°Has he given up on living?¡±

    Qin Wang and the others were stunned when they saw Chen Fan taking the initiative to fly into the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    They had expected him to retreat, nning to strike together then. None of them would have dared approach the storm under normal circumstances. If not for chasing Chen Fan, they would have left long ago.

    ¡°This little bastard is dead for sure. He actually took the initiative to head into the Evening Star Golden Storm!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Evening Star Golden Storm is one of the most terrifying natural disasters in the Little Demon Realm. Anyone who encounters it should flee immediately, but he actually rushed straight in. He¡¯s really looking to die.¡±

    ¡°Maybe he knows retreating means getting captured by us and dying anyway, so he chose a more dignified end by killing himself.¡±

    ¡°You have a point. We¡¯ll leave after confirming he¡¯s devoured by the storm.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Chen Fan was extremely fast, but the closer he got to the Evening Star Golden Storm, the greater the resistance became.

    The evening star gold qi tore through his protective true primeval, leaving it full of holes like a ho¡¯s nest. It sliced through his defenses like butter, so he withdrew his true primeval and used his physique to resist the qi directly.

    <i>Chi, chi, chi...</i>

    In an instant, many wisps of evening star gold qi bombarded Chen Fan, tearing through and piercing through his tough flesh. Fresh blood immediately spurted out.

    ¡°As expected of one of the sharpest substances. This is still only the overflowing evening star gold qi, and it¡¯s already torn through my Hegemonic Golden Body. I wonder how terrifying the center of the storm is?¡±

    The closer he got to the Evening Star Golden Storm, the harder Chen Fan¡¯s heart pounded.

    But now, it was already toote for him to regret it.

    He was already at the periphery of the Evening Star Golden Storm. A powerful suction restrained him, dragging him toward the center of the storm.

 Chapter 708 - Absorbing Evening Star Gold Qi

    <h4>Chapter 708 - Absorbing Evening Star Gold Qi</h4>

    Chen Fan was already trapped by the Evening Star Golden Storm¡¯s pull. Even if he wanted to retreat, it was impossible.

    He felt like a tiny boat caught in a whirlpool, helplessly being dragged into the depths. No matter how hard he struggled, it was futile.

    The evening star gold qi relentlessly attacked him, shredding his clothes and leaving him drenched in blood, his body covered in deep wounds.

    ¡°He¡¯s already sucked in by the storm. It¡¯s over for him. He can¡¯t possibly break free.¡±

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>. Let¡¯s leave. There¡¯s no way he can make it out alive.¡±

    ¡°Damn it, I still wish I could¡¯ve killed him myself,¡± Qin Wang cursed as he watched Chen Fan vanish into the storm.

    Convinced of his death, they turned and fled at full speed.

    Chen Fan¡¯s death was all but guaranteed after being devoured by this mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm.

    Meanwhile, the storm tossed Chen Fan around like a ragdoll. He had no control over himself. The razor-sharp evening star gold qi continued to slice into him, while gravel, spinning violently in the storm, hit him like mountains crashing down, forcing him to cough up blood.

    The gravel might be tiny, but it had been elerated to terrifying speeds by the Evening Star Golden Storm. They could prate a half-meter-thick steel te at once.

    The sheer force behind each piece was unimaginable.

    Chen Fan felt like all his bones were about to break. He spewed fresh blood wildly, and his mind wavered, teetering on the edge of unconsciousness.

    However, he knew that he absolutely could not faint.

    If he did, the Hegemonic Golden Body would not function, and the toughness of his flesh would instantly fall off a cliff. The storm''s relentless evening star gold qi would tear him apart. The gravel alone would rip through him, leaving him riddled with holes.

    Although he was covered in wounds right now and drenched in blood, seemingly very heavily injured, Chen Fan knew his situation wasn¡¯t as dire as it seemed. The worst had yet toe.

    ¡°I mustn¡¯t faint, I definitely mustn¡¯t faint!¡±

    Chen Fan bit his tongue fiercely, the searing pain jolting him awake. He channeled the Hegemonic Golden Body to the limit, making golden light flicker on him.

    Simultaneously, he also began to absorb and refine the evening star gold qi.

    The Hegemonic Golden Body Scripture and Heaven Seizing Art were channeled simultaneously, drawing in the storm''s deadly qi.

    As the evening star gold qi came into contact with Chen Fan, it immediately showed signs of being assimted.

    Chen Fan carefully refined the evening star gold qi, integrating it into his flesh, blood, tendons, and bones. They now had a faint golden hue and were stronger than ever.

    Chen Fan felt as if every fiber of his being was yearning for the evening star gold qi, a delicacy his body craved. His flesh, blood, tendons, and bones pulsated with a desire to consume it, enhancing his Hegemonic Golden Body in the process.

    ¡°Very good!¡±

    A brilliant light shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    Although he was now full of holes and looked very miserable, he had persevered through it.

    With each moment he absorbed and refined the evening star gold qi, his physique grew stronger, allowing him to adapt to the storm''s harsh conditions.

    ¡°Good, good, good. Just like this. More evening star gold qi, devour it all!¡±

    Chen Fan made the Heaven Seizing Furnace materialize and expanded it to frantically capture the evening star gold qi. The once deadly energy transformed into nourishment for his physique.

    Suddenly, a stream of evening star gold qi, like a golden river, whistled over at an extremely fast speed.

    <i>Puchi!</i>

    Before Chen Fan could react, it mmed into his waist. Blood sprayed everywhere as the golden river prated him, nearly splitting his waist in two. The severity of the injury left him gasping.

    ¡°Damn it!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯splexion turned ghastly pale.

    ¡°Thinking of running away just like that after heavily injuring me? Not a chance, devour!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s gaze turned vicious, looking at this golden river. The Heaven Seizing Furnace shrouded over, enveloping a portion of the golden river.

    This golden river was also evening star gold qi, though liquefied and incredibly dense, brimming with power.

    ¡°Refine!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes glowed red, channeling the Hegemonic Golden Body Scripture and furiously refining the evening star gold qi.

    His grievously injured waist began to recover at a speed visible to the naked eye. Not only that, the new flesh, blood, tendons, and bones emitted a faint golden luster.

    Just like this, Chen Fan began his difficult cultivation within the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    ......

    ¡°What? Chen Fan is dead?¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan actually rushed into the Evening Star Golden Storm? That¡¯s actively looking to die.¡±

    ¡°Even a Manifestation realm expert would have to avoid a mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm like the gue. He¡¯s definitely dead after rushing into it!¡±

    ¡°That mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm swept through nearly half of the Little Demon Realm. It¡¯s too terrifying. I saw it myself. Chen Fan had definitely run straight into a dead end by entering the storm.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    News of Chen Fan rushing into the Evening Star Golden Storm soon spread and almost everyone in the Little Demon Realm learned of it.

    Many people felt sorry, especially those Chen Fan had saved before.

    With Chen Fan¡¯s talent, he would have be a pir of the True Martial Academy in the future had he not died. However, Qin Wang and the others had forced him into entering the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    After all, who would willingly enter the Evening Star Golden Storm? The only logical exnation was that he had been forced into it.

    Cornered with no way to retreat, Chen Fan was left with no choice but to risk everything, hoping against hope for a miracle¡ªthough deep down, they all knew it was unlikely.

    That was an Evening Star Golden Storm; these people all knew what that meant.

    Each of them had witnessed its sheer devastation firsthand. It was a relentless force that left nothing but ruin in its path.

    How could Chen Fan possibly survive after entering the mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm?

    Xiao Zhen and the other martial artists from the Hong Domain had gathered in a valley.

    ¡°Ahhh, damn it, damn it! Damn my insignificant strength! I couldn¡¯t do anything for Chen Fan!¡±

    News of Chen Fan¡¯s presumed demise weighed heavily on them, igniting a storm of emotion.

    Back at the Hidden Dragon Ind, they had once fought side by side with Chen Fan against the white bone corpse demon.

    He had recently risked his life to save them when they had been trapped by the demon army, disying impressive courage.

    But when Chen Fan was facing a life-and-death crisis, they could not do anything because they were too weak to help Chen Fan in any way.

    Unable to help him, they were consumed by feelings of hatred¡ªhatred for their own weakness, hatred for the injustice of the situation, and above all, hatred for Qin Wang and his group.

 Chapter 709 - Hegemonic Golden Body Level 10

    <h4>Chapter 709 - Hegemonic Golden Body Level 10</h4>

    Time passed quickly, and three months went by in a sh.

    The other participants seemed to have forgotten Chen Fan.

    That mega-scale Evening Star Golden Storm, which had swept through close to half of the Little Demon Realm, weakened gradually. It now resembled a small-scale storm, showing faint signs of dissipating soon.

    On the scoreboard, the rankings changed continuously as everyone hunted the demons valiantly to obtain points.

    Chen Fan¡¯s name had vanished long ago, and everyone epted that he had died, making it impossible for him to appear on the scoreboard again.

    At the Demon Realm tform, countless eyes were fixed on the crystal scoreboard.

    With only one month left in the Demon Hunting Competition, they had entered the final stages, where thepetition intensified.

    Di Chen and the others sat in silence, ncing at the scoreboard that showed the Peerless Peak inst ce, its score unchanged for three months. Chen Fan''s name had also long since dropped from the solo scoreboard.

    A short distance away, the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s Xiao Qianheughed and said, ¡°Haha, Di Chen, why are you guys even staring at that? Your peak¡¯s score has been as consistent as our hall¡¯s brilliance. I¡¯m sure that little bastard Chen Fan is dead. Good riddance, he¡¯s a spy of the demon race!¡±

    They had all been paying attention to the name Chen Fan on the solo scoreboard. However, nothing rted to him had changed in thest three months, so it could only mean one thing: Chen Fan was dead.

    Xiao Qianhe¡¯s words angered Di Chen. A terrifying aura rose to the sky, and he sent a palm strike sting toward Xiao Qianhe.

    ¡°Xiao Qianhe, you¡¯re asking to die!¡±

    Xiao Qianhe and the other Law Enforcement Hall members shouted angrily at once.

    ¡°How dare you!¡±

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    Xiao Qianhe struck out to fend off Di Chen¡¯s strike. He said with a gloomy expression, ¡°Di Chen, how very bold of you, to dare attack us in public. Do the academy¡¯s rules still exist in your eyes?!¡±

    Di Chen dismissed the need for excuses and said, ¡°Academy rules? Stop pretending to be important here, Xiao Qianhe. If you mention Chen Fan again, I¡¯ll kill you!¡±

    His words seemed to have made heaven and earth turn somber.

    Xiao Qianhe and the other Law Enforcement Hall members¡¯ faces turned white, their features contorted with disbelief.

    As the hall responsible for meting out punishments, being threatened by Di Chen in front of so many was utter humiliation.

    Despite seething with anger inside, Xiao Qianhe didn¡¯t dare to say anything more.

    The members of Peerless Peak were reckless and indifferent to the academy¡¯s rules. Di Chen would¡ªundoubtedly¡ª-kill him if he said another word.

    However, he felt confident that Di Chen stillcked the power to do so.

    Meanwhile, onlookers from other halls showed no inclination to intervene, clearly more interested in the unfolding drama.

    While Peerless Peak had a notorious reputation, the Law Enforcement Hall irritated them even more, and they relished the sh between the two factions.

    ¡°Second Senior Brother, Junior Brother he...¡± Jian Qi looked a little dejected.

    The Peerless Peak¡¯s score hadn¡¯t changed for three months, which was definitely abnormal. Chen Fan was likely...

    Di Chen sighed and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know the situation either. We¡¯ll find out when thepetition ends. If Chen Fan has perished in the Little Demon Realm, it only shows he¡¯s not outstanding enough and has failed this test. That¡¯s fine; we only need monster-ss geniuses. If he died, it means he isn¡¯t qualified to be one of us.¡±

    Jian Qi and Yan Weiyi both sighed in their hearts when they heard this.

    ......

    Little Demon Realm:

    Chen Fan sat cross-legged at the eye of the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    A powerful devouring force emanated from him, pulling wisps of evening star gold qi into him for refining.

    For three whole months, he had traversed half of the Little Demon Realm with the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    He watched it weaken from mega-scale torge-scale, then medium-scale, and now small-scale, already showing signs of dissipating.

    The first month had been the hardest. He endured injuries, healed, and suffered again in an endless cycle within the storm.

    However, as he refined more and more evening star gold qi, his Hegemonic Golden Body grew stronger. In the subsequent months, he gradually adapted to the environment and moved closer to the eye of the storm.

    He had devoured and refined an immense amount of evening star gold qi, continually enhancing his Hegemonic Golden Body.

    Level 6.

    Level 7.

    Level 8.

    Level 9.

    He was now at the peak of Level 9.

    He had seized a rare opportunity, persevered through it all, and was now being rewarded generously.

    Wealth came from taking risks; he had bet on the right choice.

    <i>Absorb, refine, and push through to Level 10!</i> Chen Fan roared furiously in his heart.

    He wanted to be stronger.

    When the Hegemonic Golden Body was cultivated toplete mastery, he would be unimaginably powerful and be able to split gods and devils in one palm strike.

    Currently, he was only at the introductory stage.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    For the past three months, the qi inside him circted furiously, never pausing. The evening star gold qi could no longer hurt his flesh.

    Chen Fan felt as if he had been cast from gold, with a faint golden glow radiating from his flesh, blood, tendons, bones, and membranes.

    Determined not to rx, he aimed to push his Hegemonic Golden Body to level 10 during this final stretch. He knew he might not encounter such an opportunity again for a long time.

    The Evening Star Golden Storm suddenly trembled violently, beginning to dissipate.

    ¡°Devour for me!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes snapped open. The Heaven Seizing Furnace instantly expanded to the limit, shrouding half of the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    As the stormpletely dissipated, Chen Fannded in a mountain cleft.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    As Chen Fan refined the evening star gold qi, the golden luster on him brightened.

    <i>Boom, crack!</i>

    Under the overwhelming surge of evening star gold qi energy, the barrier between levels 9 and 10 shattered for Chen Fan. It felt like a dam had copsed, unleashing a torrent of umted energy that coursed through him.

    Chen Fan felt his very life form elevating. An intense, tearing pain invaded him, making him scream out loud and roll his eyes back.

    A resplendent golden light erupted from him, revealing that his flesh, blood, tendons, bones, and membranes appeared as if cast from gold.

    Hegemonic Golden Body, level 10!

 Chapter 710 - Chen Fan is Alive!

    <h4>Chapter 710 - Chen Fan is Alive!</h4>

    After absorbing evening star gold qi for three months, Chen Fan¡¯s physique improved by leaps and bounds. His long-stagnant Hegemonic Golden Body had finally reached level 10, marking a dramatic breakthrough.

    Chen Fan could now ignore all attacks below the Manifestation realm. Even ordinary Manifestation realm experts would struggle to kill him.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    Clenching his fist, he felt the endless strength coursing through him. He felt like he could punch a hole through the Little Demon Realm.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good. Very good! My three months of perseverance wasn¡¯t wasted!¡± Chen Fanughed heartily, filled with the joy of his sess.

    Relying on his physical strength alone, he could kill Heavenly Star realm experts like Qin Wang with a single punch.

    In the Little Demon Realm, he was now a force few could challenge, even Manifestation realm demons would find it nearly impossible to bring him down.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t hunted a single demon in three months, so Peerless Peak¡¯s score must be at rock bottom,¡± he muttered, eyes gleaming with fierce intent. ¡°But no matter. It¡¯s time for Qin Wang and the others to fear me. After three months of hunting, they must have amassed a lot of points for me!¡±

    Suddenly, a group approached from a distance.

    ¡°Senior Brother Gu Hao, that ce is just ahead.¡±

    Their clothing indicated that they were from the Law Enforcement Hall. The one leading them was a youth with a head full of blond hair. He was extraordinarily handsome and a Heavenly Star realm expert.

    He was Gu Hao, another famous figure from the Ancient Trial Road. Though inferior to people like Qin Wang and the First Dragon Lord, he couldpete with people like Xiao Yan.

    Three months ago, when he was following the First Dragon Lord, he was a half-step Heavenly Star realm expert. Now, he was a genuine Heavenly Star realm expert.

    ¡°Excellent, let¡¯s speed up,¡± Gu Hao ordered, and the group immediately quickened their pace.

    Chen Fan had already noticed the group and recognized that they were from the Law Enforcement Hall. A cold smile formed on his lips.

    ¡°Perfect. They''vee right to me, saving me the trouble of hunting them down one by one. I¡¯ll use you people to lure out the First Dragon Lord, Qin Wang, and the others!¡±

    He had been nning on looking for the First Dragon Lord and the others, but seeing Gu Hao¡¯s party changed his mind.

    Why waste time searching when they woulde to him on their own once they realized he was still alive?

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Gu Hao¡¯s group was very fast, closing in with a sh.

    However, when they spotted Chen Fan, they froze, staring at him as if they had just seen a ghost.

    Gu Hao immediately channeled his cultivation. His terrifying Heavenly Star realm aura spread out, pressing down on heaven and earth, and he shouted coldly, ¡°Chen Fan? Is he a human or a ghost?¡±

    Everyone had assumed that he was dead after news of him rushing into the Evening Star Golden Storm had spread.

    Moreover, for three months, Chen Fan¡¯s name hadn¡¯t been on the solo scoreboard, and the Peerless Peak sat at the bottom of the total scoreboard. Their points hadn¡¯t moved, turning everyone¡¯s belief into a fact that Chen Fan was dead.

    But now, that very man, who was supposed to be dead, stood before them. Gu Hao was visibly shocked.

    <i>Could it be that Chen Fan felt indignant in death and had turned into an evil spirit?</i>

    Chen Fan smiled contemptuously. He strode forth, rising into the sky, and said indifferently, ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Surprised?¡±

    Hearing Chen Fan¡¯s voice and sensing his robust life force, Gu Hao¡¯s eyes widened in shock.

    ¡°You¡¯re not dead?!¡±

    <i>Chen Fan is alive. H-how?</i>

    ¡°How can I die when you guys are still alive?¡± Chen Fan said, chuckling.

    Gu Hao¡¯s gaze turned gloomy, and his aura suddenly turned cold, as if he was ready to strike out and kill Chen Fan at any time. He said coldly, ¡°If you¡¯re alive, then why hide for three months?¡±

    ¡°Are you stupid? Is the Evening Star Golden Storm a joke? Although it didn¡¯t kill me, I still suffered heavy injuries and was on the brink of death. I was lucky enough to survive and had to go into seclusion to recuperate for three months. Only now have I fully recovered,¡± said Chen Fan, quickly fabricating a usible excuse.

    Gu Hao found the excuse believable. After all, the Evening Star Golden Storm was indeed a force that even Chen Fan shouldn''t have survived. So, even if he somehow survived, being severely injured was a given.

    They had assumed that he was dead for sure because his name disappeared from the solo leaderboard. However, they had overlooked one thing: the solo scoreboard only disyed the top ten thousand participants.

    Others had surpassed Chen Fan¡¯s score and pushed him out of the solo scoreboard. And that was why his name had disappeared.

    Gu Hao looked at Chen Fan with a grave expression, his muscles tense.

    Although he had already advanced into the Heavenly Star realm, he was still very flustered when facing Chen Fan.

    That massive battle from three months ago was still etched into his memory¡ªChen Fan had been terrifying, far beyond what a mere Heavenly Star realm expert could handle, even if he had just recovered from his injuries.

    With a subtle nce at the person next to him, Gu Hao signaled them to send a message to the First Dragon Lord. Then, he said, ¡°Chen Fan, you¡¯re one tough nut to crack, surviving that mega-scale storm.¡±

    Chen Fan grinned, his white teeth gleaming unnervingly. ¡°I feel the same way.¡±

    He had already noticed Gu Hao¡¯s signal to the person beside him and seen them secretly sending a message. This was exactly what he wanted¡ªto spread the word of his survival and draw the First Dragon Lord and others to him.

    The trap had been set.

    ......

    Fifty kilometers away, in a valley, the First Dragon Lord had just killed a Heavenly Star realm demon. He caught the signal that came flying toward him.

    ¡°What? Chen Fan is actually still alive!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s aura instantly erupted and boiled over, surging straight into the clouds. A shocking killing intent swept out.

    ¡°That damned bastard! He sure is one lucky freak to survive that storm. Fine, since you¡¯re still alive, I¡¯ll kill you once more!¡±

    His eyes zed with murderous intent. Yet, despite his boiling rage, the First Dragon Lord understood the gravity of the situation. Though he had reached the second level of the Heavenly Star realm, there was no guarantee he could defeat Chen Fan alone.

    With this in mind, he quickly spread the news to the First Fiend, Qin Wang, and the others. He couldn¡¯t risk taking on Chen Fan without backup.

    ¡°What? Chen Fan¡¯s appeared. He¡¯s actually still alive!¡±

    ¡°Damn it, not even the Evening Star Golden Storm could kill him. Damn it, damn it!¡±

    The First Fiend, Qin Wang, and the others were equally shocked and rattled when they received the message.

    They had been certain Chen Fan was dead, but this twistpletely shattered their expectations.

    Chen Fan was too great a threat to be left alive. He had to die¡ªthis time, for good.

 Chapter 711 - Destroying a Heavenly Star with One Finger

    <h4>Chapter 711 - Destroying a Heavenly Star with One Finger</h4>

    ¡°Chen Fan¡¯s not dead. He¡¯s appeared again!¡±

    ¡°How is that possible? Didn¡¯t he rush into the Evening Star Golden Storm? How is he still alive?¡±

    ¡°Maybe he was just lucky, escaping with serious injuries. But recuperating for three months means his injuries were no joke. It¡¯s just bad timing that he was discovered now.¡±

    ¡°In that case, doesn¡¯t that mean the First Dragon Lord and the others are on their way to him again?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s of course! You know Gu Hao from the Law Enforcement Hall? He found Chen Fan and sent news to the First Dragon Lord, who then ryed the information to the First Fiend, Qin Wang, and the others. They are all rushing to Chen Fan¡¯s location.¡±

    ¡°Where¡¯s he? Let¡¯s go take a look as well! Chen Fan sure is unlucky to get discovered as soon as his injuries heal. Qin Wang and the others will surround him again. I¡¯m afraid he won¡¯t escape this time.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The First Dragon Lord and the others have improved by leaps and bounds in the past three months. I heard they¡¯ve all broken through to the second-level Heavenly Star realm. With theirbat strength, they could fight against third-level Heavenly Star realm experts.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    News of Chen Fan still being alive instantly spread throughout the Little Demon Realm like a storm.

    ¡®The news shocked everyone. The idea that someone presumed dead had returned ignited a fervor among the participants.

    Thus, for a time, the entire Little Demon Realm was sent into an uproar again because of Chen Fan.

    ......

    In the sky, Chen Fan looked at Gu Hao¡¯s party with a smile and said, ¡°You¡¯ve already spread the news of me being alive, right?¡±

    Gu Hao¡¯s irises immediately shrunk violently. He said with a low voice, ¡°You knew?¡±

    ¡°What? You thought you could hide it from my eyes?¡± said Chen Fan, with a hint of mockery on his face.

    Gu Hao¡¯s expression turned ugly and said, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you stop us? If even I have advanced to the Heavenly Star realm, the First Dragon Lord and the others are bound to be stronger. You weren¡¯t even a match for them three months ago. Your cultivation hasn¡¯t increased, and you¡¯ve just recovered from your heavy injuries. Once they are here, you¡¯ll die!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression did not change in the slightest. He said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the truth. I told you earlier that I was severely injured in the Evening Star Golden Storm earlier and had to recuperate for three months, right? Well, that was a lie.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    Gu Hao and the others¡¯ expressions changed drastically.

    Chen Fan continued, ¡°You people have indeed improved tremendously, but my progress is still greater than yours. You people simply can¡¯t imagine what I¡¯ve obtained in the storm! For you people, the Evening Star Golden Storm was a terrifying disaster; for me, it was an opportunity.

    ¡°Think about it. Why did I dart into the storm? Because I was forced by Qin Wang and the others? What a joke! If I want to leave, no one in this entire realm can stop me.

    ¡°I just lied to you guys to make you spread false information about me. That will lure them all over, so that I can catch them all in one fell swoop, saving me the trouble of going everywhere to find them one by one.¡±

    From Gu Hao and the others¡¯ point of view, Chen Fan¡¯s exnation seemed like a madman¡¯s monologue.

    Gu Hao immediately came back to his senses and shouted, ¡°Hurry, send word to the First Dragon Lord!¡±

    The person beside him tried to send a signal, but a punch came flying toward him.

    ¡°Toote!¡± Chen Fan shook his head, retracting his fist.

    The space shook momentarily as a stream of terrifying fist force sted over like a meteorite.

    That half-step Heavenly Star realm Law Enforcement Hall disciple couldn¡¯t even scream before he was blown to oblivion, leaving nothing behind.

    ¡°Alright, you guys no longer have any value. You can go die now!¡±

    Chen Fan stepped forward, unleashing a terrifying aura that surged through the area.

    The entire space seemed to transform into a cage, pulling Gu Hao and the others into an abyss of despair.

    The overwhelming power, like that of a deity, crushed their will to resist.

    Even Gu Hao¡ªa Heavenly Star realm expert¡ªfelt his limbs turn to ice under Chen Fan¡¯s pressure.

    Three months ago, Chen Fan was powerful, but nowhere near this level.

    Gu Hao, too, was a pride of heaven¡ªan exceptional genius on par with the First Dragon Lord and the others. Yet, before Chen Fan, his limbs seemed to revolt, refusing to listen to his will.

    Finally, he realized that the monologue was the truth.

    Chen Fan had really obtained a heavenly opportunity within the Evening Star Golden Storm, which made him significantly stronger. The sheer force of his aura rendered even a Heavenly Star realm cultivator like Gu Hao defenseless.

    It was too terrifying!

    He couldn¡¯t imagine what would happen when the First Dragon Lord and the others arrived. A massacre seemed inevitable, and the True Martial Academy would descend into chaos.

    But none of that mattered now.

    He didn¡¯t want to die.

    As a genius with limitless potential, he refused to perish like this.

    Hands at his back, Chen Fan slowly closed in as the pressure emanating from him became increasingly terrifying.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof...</i>

    Some eighth and ninth-level Divine Nascent realms could not withstand the pressure and exploded. Not even their divine nascent could escape.

    Meanwhile, the half-step Heavenly Star realm stubbornly tried to resist the pressure, but their bones began cracking under the immense pressure, and blood seeped from their seven orifices.

    Horror filled their faces. They couldn¡¯t fathom Chen Fan¡¯s strength; his mere aura had led powerful Divine Nascent martial artists to gruesome deaths without him lifting a finger.

    A half-step Heavenly Star realm could not hold on any longer and spoke out, begging for mercy with much difficulty.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me, I don¡¯t want to die!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m willing to tell you a secret. All I ask is for you to spare my life!¡± pleaded another half-step Heavenly Star realm expert.

    ¡°Oh? Let¡¯s hear it,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently. ¡°If it¡¯s interesting, I can spare your life.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll definitely be interested!¡±

    ¡°Yuan Tong, you...¡±

    Gu Hao¡¯s expression changed. However, before he could finish his sentence, Chen Fan pointed a finger at him. Immediately, an unrivaled storm stirred in heaven and earth, tearing through the void.

    An unrivaled storm surged from Chen Fan¡¯s fingertip, tearing through the void and shattering the space around it.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The force ripped through Gu Hao. A brilliant light exploded from him before it shattered into endless fragments, disappearing into nothingness.

    One finger to kill a Heavenly Star realm expert!

    Aside from Yuan Tong, the ripples from that one gesture thoroughly destroyed everyone.

    ¡°Alright, you can speak now.¡±

 Chapter 712 - Hell Ore

    <h4>Chapter 712 - Hell Ore</h4>

    ¡°Alright, you can speak now.¡±

    Chen Fan had killed everyone except Yuan Tong. How? He simply pointed at them.

    Yuan Tong froze in terror, unable toprehend the sheer power behind Chen Fan¡¯s move.

    The Heavenly Star realm Gu Hao, in addition to about a dozen half-step Heavenly Star realm, eighth and ninth-level Divine Nascent realm experts were wiped out like ants.

    <i>Gulp.</i>

    Yuan Tong took a moment to snap out of his shock. He swallowed hard, his gaze filled with fear as he looked at the indifferent Chen Fan.

    This man was a killing god¡ªa terrifying killing god.

    ¡°Speak, I don¡¯t have much patience.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice pierced Yuan Tong like a summons from hell. Panic-stricken, Yuan Tong stammered, ¡°I¡¯ll speak. It¡¯s hell ore! I know where to find hell ores!"

    A sh of light shot through Chen Fan¡¯s eyes as his voice grew icy. ¡°Is this true?¡±

    Hell ore was an energy crystal used by the Hell Demon race for cultivation, simr to the Tianwu Continent¡¯s primeval stones but of a much higher grade.

    The Hell Demon Realm was equivalent in power to the Upper Realm¡¯s Thirty-Three Heavenly Domains.

    While they were useless to Heavenly Star or Manifestation realm experts, they were invaluable for Legendary realm experts.

    Chen Fan hadn¡¯t known much about these cultivation materials before, but after entering the True Martial Academy, Di Chen had enlightened him.

    He learned that the Tianwu Continent was just a small part of the vast universe, merely a cultivationnd in the Lower Realm.

    What people said about enlightenment, ascending to heaven, and bing immortals wasn¡¯t just a myth. In this universe, gods and immortals were real.

    Immortals existed in the Thirty-Three Heavenly Domains and used immortal stones for cultivation¡ªstones of the same grade as hell ores.

    One could imagine how valuable such energy crystals were.

    Before entering the Little Demon Realm, Di Chen had also told him about some relevant information. Hell ores were one of those opportunities to be found.

    Di Chen had told him that obtaining these ores and handing them over to the sect would bring great rewards.

    Legendary realm martial artists stood at the pinnacle of the Tianwu Continent.

    However, that wasn¡¯t the final destination on the martial path. With the existence of immortals above, these experts naturally aspired to be gods themselves.

    Although hell ores, infused with demonic qi, were used by the hell demon race for cultivation and could demonize martial artists who absorbed them, this posed little threat to Legendary realm experts.

    At their level, they had already begun to understand thews of heaven and earth and could easily purge the demonic qi from the ores.

    If a piece of hell ore was brought outside, it would spark a fierce battle among peak Legendary realm experts eager to im it.

    A piece of hell ore represented a hope to be immortal. No one would give it up.

    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Yuan Tong saw the look on Chen Fan¡¯s face, realizing that the killing god was aware of its value. He hurriedly nodded and continued, ¡°I only happened to learn of this information by chance. I wanted to borrow Gu Hao¡¯s strength to obtain the hell ores, bring it out, and hand it over to the sect to receive rewards.¡±

    ¡°Very good. Tell me, where are they? Rest assured, even if it¡¯s just one piece of hell ore, you will be saved,¡± Chen Fan said.

    He had already advanced to the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, so the next step was the half-step Heavenly Star realm. However, his foundation was so strong that he might bypass the half-step stage and directly advance into the Heavenly Star realm.

    If he could obtain hell ores and absorb the energy within, advancing into the Heavenly Star realm was all but guaranteed.

    The fact that hell ores were typically for Legendary realm peak experts and contained demonic qi wasn¡¯t a concern for Chen Fan. The Heaven Seizing Furnace would refine everything, leaving only the purest energy behind.

    Yuan Tong, terrified of Chen Fan, quickly offered a solution to survive. ¡°The hell ores are just nearby. I have a map¡ªI''ll give it to you now," he said, handing over the map.

    Chen Fan nced at the map and saw the location of the hell ores marked close by.

    ¡°Very well. Rest assured, if there are really hell ores there, you won¡¯t have to die.¡±

    Chen Fan put the map away, nning to bring Yuan Tong along for the search.

    Suddenly, he looked, sensing a change in the space around him.

    ¡°<i>Hoh</i>, they arrived quickly.¡±

    In the distance, several powerful auras burst forth, pressing down on heaven and earth¡ªit was the First Dragon Lord and his group.

    ¡°Since that is the case, I¡¯ll deal with you first before searching for the hell ores."

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyeballs darted around, deciding his course of action. He nced at Yuan Tong and said, ¡°Alright, you can go now.¡±

    Yuan Tong couldn¡¯t believe it and was stunned. However, he returned to his senses very soon and immediately fled.

    Chen Fan was too terrifying¡ªhe was a devil!

    ¡°Chen Fan, your doom hase. I¡¯ll kill you now; I won¡¯t allow you to grow stronger. You¡¯ll die for sure. There absolutely won¡¯t be a way out for you!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s aura surged skyward, radiating immense power as his voice shook the heavens. A dragon¡¯s silhouette appeared above him, and his bloodline stirred, disrupting the demonic qi around them.

    Chen Fan nced at the neers and immediately recognized them.

    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, First Dragon Lord. Where are the others? Didn¡¯t you call for backup to kill me together?¡±

    The First Dragon Lord looked at Chen Fan with a cold and fierce gaze and said, ¡°I alone am enough to kill you! <i>Hmph</i>, where¡¯s Gu Hao and the others?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re already dead,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Overwhelming murderous qi immediately surged from the First Dragon Lord, shaking the heavens. He roared furiously, ¡°Chen Fan, how bold of you, how dare you kill our Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s disciples!¡±

    Chen Fan curled his lips and said, ¡°Spare me the wailing. They called you to kill me¡ªwhy should I keep them alive?¡±

    ¡°Fine. If you killed Gu Hao¡¯s group, then I¡¯ll make sure to kill you today. There¡¯s nowhere to run, not in heaven or earth. Surrender!¡± The First Dragon Lord¡¯s fury quickly subsided, as if his earlier rage was just for show.

    ¡°Hahahaha, thinking of killing me? With just you? Delusional! Go ahead, make your move. I want to see how much stronger you¡¯ve be after breaking through to the second-level Heavenly Star realm. You better not disappoint me,¡± Chen Fan said with a faint smile, clearly not taking the First Dragon Lord seriously.

 Chapter 713 - All Experts Arrived

    <h4>Chapter 713 - All Experts Arrived</h4>

    ¡°How very confident of you!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord''s eyes zed with fury as he struggled to suppress the anger boiling inside.

    Being looked down upon by Chen Fan¡ªdespite his status as a second-level Heavenly Star realm expert¡ªwas an insult he couldn¡¯t bear.

    In his mind, each step forward in cultivation brought a profound increase in strength, especially for a genius like him. Surely, Chen Fan was no match for him now.

    ¡°You must still be living in the past, thinking I''m the same as I was three months ago," the First Dragon Lord sneered. ¡°You¡¯re about to find out how foolish you are. The phrase ¡®height of folly¡¯ fits you perfectly!¡±

    As his aura surged, overwhelming killing intent poured out, and the sky above grew dark and heavy.

    ¡°Hahahaha, First Dragon Lord, you think you can act arrogantly before me after advancing to the second level? You may be a top genius of the younger generation, but to me, you¡¯re just a dog!¡±

    The sharp insult cut deep, its words like des slicing into the First Dragon Lord¡¯s pride.

    ¡°Die!¡± His face flushed as a pig¡¯s liver, shifting colors from red to a dark purple before finally settling into a greenish-ck hue, as if he were on the verge of coughing up blood from sheer anger.

    There was nothing he could say. He suddenly flew out and struck out with a palm strike.

    The sky changed at once. All phenomena were destroyed. In the sky, a dragon¡¯s w ripped through the sky, unleashing a killing move on Chen Fan.

    ¡°Dragon Shatters the Sun and Moon!¡±

    It was his ultimate killing move, a strike so powerful it could copse ages and obliterate entirends. The sun and moon seemed to shatter under the dragon¡¯s w, and the space between them dissolved into primal chaos.

    The First Dragon Lord decided to take Chen Fan down alone and prove that, in thest three months, he had grown beyondparison, while Chen Fan, in his mind, remained stagnant.

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s killing move¡ªa terrifying force¡ªdescended on Chen Fan, trying to suppress his soul.

    It seemed like the w could destroy the sun and the moon.

    Yet, Chen Fan stood calmly, showing no fear. Even the Chen Fan from three months ago wouldn¡¯t have feared him¡ªnow, Chen Fan was on an entirely different level.

    He couldn¡¯t even fight the First Dragon Lord with his full strength, as the First Fiend and the others weren¡¯t here yet. If the First Dragon Lord died too quickly, the rest might not even dare to show up.

    Chen Fan had no interest in hunting them down one by one.

    ¡°Go!¡± Chen Fan pushed his right palm out, executing the Northern Star Reaper Hand.

    A terrifying palm seal shot forth, surging through the skies, opposing the mighty dragon w that bore down on him.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Deafening noises rang out. The space exploded violently, turning into primal chaos. The terrifying qi currents surged like the sea, sweeping heaven and earth.

    Amid the storm of destruction, Chen Fan calmly stepped forward, closing the distance between them. ¡°First Dragon Lord, if I could kill you three months ago, what¡¯s stopping me from killing you now? You want to kill me? Wake up to reality! You are a joke to me!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord was so angry he could vomit blood. Chen Fan¡¯s strength was simply beyond his expectations.

    No wonder Chen Fan stayed brave, even against six peerless geniuses three months ago.

    ¡°Chen Fan, do you think this is the extent of my strength? You¡¯re underestimating me too much!¡± said the First Dragon Lord coldly, gripping the Flood Dragon Spear as the roar of a true dragon echoed from within him.

    The First Dragon Lord rose to the sky. A stream of light tore through the darkness and descended.

    His terrifying spear transformed into a vicious, savage flood dragon, rushing down from the nine heavens with overwhelming force, reflected in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Petty tricks, not even worth mentioning. Get lost!¡± Chen Fan rushed up fearlessly and unleashed a palm strike.

    A massive golden palm, seemingly cast from gold and adorned with Buddha silhouettes, appeared in the sky, sweeping away the descending dragon in an instant.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    The First Dragon Lord staggered back, horror in his eyes as he stared at Chen Fan.

    ¡°How is this possible? Didn¡¯t you just recover from serious injuries? Why are you still so powerful?¡± The First Dragon Lord was astonished.

    The news from Gu Hao¡¯s group said that Chen Fan had spent thest three months recuperating from injuries. Since his injuries had just healed, the First Dragon Lord had been confident that Chen Fan was no match for the current him.

    But after just two palm strikes, he realized Chen Fan wasn¡¯t weaker¡ªin fact, he might be even stronger. There was no sign of someone who had just recovered from serious wounds.

    Chen Fan chuckled faintly and said, ¡°Did you think I haven¡¯t improved at all during the past three months? Howughable!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord was truly enraged, fully unleashing the power of his true dragon bloodline.

    Huge amounts of true primeval stormed out in all directions, converging into several torrents that spread out like a spiderweb with him at the center.

    Their true primeval collided in the air, exploding non-stop, destroying countless tangible and intangible existences.

    But deep down, the First Dragon Lord grew more and more fearful.

    As the battle between Chen Fan and the First Dragon Lord raged on, a voice echoed from afar.

    ¡°First Dragon Lord, it seems you really can¡¯t do a thing to this little bastard!¡±

    A mass of ck light streaked through the sky at an incredible speed, carrying an overwhelming nefarious qi that shook heaven and earth. Within this dark aura, countless souls seemed to wail and roar in fury.

    The First Fiend¡¯s group had arrived.

    The five other fiends had all advanced into the Heavenly Star realm, possessing very terrifying powers. When they flew over, their auras pressured thends.

    ¡°Chen Fan, you little bastard, you definitely won¡¯t get so lucky today. You¡¯ll die for sure!¡±

    The nefarious qi around the First Fiend and the others filled the skies, like a ck storm sweeping across thend.

    They rushed over as soon as they received the news from the First Dragon Lord, determined to finish the job this time and kill Chen Fan. They wouldn¡¯t give Chen Fan any more chance to live.

    The Evening Star Golden Star did not kill Chen Fan, so they would do it themselves!

    Another voice rang out.

    ¡°You¡¯re really lucky, Chen Fan. Even the Evening Star Golden Storm couldn¡¯t kill you, but it¡¯s fine. I¡¯ve always wanted to ughter you with my own hands. Since you didn¡¯t die, I¡¯ll kill you personally and fulfill my wish.¡±

    Qin Wang, dressed in long golden robes, strode forward on a golden light, radiating a noble, kingly aura as if an emperor had descended into the mortal world.

    His aura was overwhelming, more terrifying than both the First Dragon Lord and the First Fiend, who were second-level Heavenly Star realm experts. It was clear he had reached the peak of the second level and was just a step away from advancing to the third.

    His voice echoed from afar, carrying the confidence of someone who viewed Chen Fan as a mere hindrance he could crush at will.

    ¡°Haha, how can we be left out when ites to killing Chen Fan?¡± Three more figures appeared¡ªHong Jun, Ye Wushuang, and Liu Zong.

 Chapter 714 - Kill!

    <h4>Chapter 714 - Kill!</h4>

    The Demon Realm tform:

    When Chen Fan killed Gu Hao¡¯s party, a name suddenly shed intensely on the crystal scoreboard, jumping at an insane pace as if riding a rocket.

    ¡°Look! Heavens, who is that? Their ranking¡¯s rising so quickly!¡± someone eximed, narrowing their eyes.

    The speed of the name¡¯s ascent was astonishing. Although the name was moving fast, the spectators were incredibly powerful cultivators, so it didn¡¯t take them long to recognize this outlier.

    ¡°Chen Fan! My god, it¡¯s Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°How is that possible? Didn¡¯t he die? Are the others so bad they are being overtaken by a corpse?¡±

    ¡°What did he do? His ranking is skyrocketing. He¡¯s already entered the top 1000¡ªno, wait! Now it is... 800, 600, 500, 200, 100, 36!¡±

    ¡°Heavens, he jumped straight to thirty-sixth ce. Did he kill a god in there?¡±

    ¡°Wait, something¡¯s off. Gu Hao was ranked thirty-sixth before, but his name has disappeared.¡±

    ¡°What? That¡¯s impossible, right? Even if Chen Fan overtook Gu Hao, he should have dropped one rank, but for his name to disappear...¡±

    A storm of shock erupted on the Demon Realm tform.

    The atmosphere around Peerless Peak was initially somber, and its members looked grim. So, they were also stunned to see Chen Fan¡¯s name reappear and soar to thirty-sixth ce.

    ¡°Second Senior Brother, Chen Fan is still alive, he didn¡¯t die!¡± Jian Qi said excitedly.

    Yan Weiyi also revealed a rare smile and said, ¡°I told you, anyone who caught the Teacher¡¯s eye could never be mediocre. Our Peerless Peak never epts mediocre people.¡±

    The third senior sister, Duanmu Lingxing, also smiled faintly and said, ¡°I wonder what Chen Fan is doing inside. After a three-month-long silence, he made a move and soared to the thirty-sixth ce.¡±

    In contrast to the joy on the Peerless Peak¡¯s side, Xiao Qianhe and the other Law Enforcement Hall members¡¯ expressions instantly turned gloomy.

    Chen Fan had reappeared, and with his return, Gu Hao¡¯s name vanishedpletely.

    ¡°Ahhh, damn it, damn it! Gu Hao must have killed that little bastard! Damn it, how dare he disregard our academy¡¯s rules and kill our hall¡¯s disciple?! That little bastard is a devil reincarnate! A devil reincarnate, I say!¡± Xiao Qianhe roared furiously, his murderous qi shocking heaven and earth.

    ¡°Shut up, Xiao Qianhe!¡± Di Chen shouted coldly.

    ¡°Di Chen, how dare you tell me to shut up. How dare you?¡± Xiao Qianhe roared angrily at Di Chen.

    ¡°You want to fight me then?¡± Di Chen¡¯s gaze suddenly turned cold. A vague, terrifying aura erupted from him, pressing toward Xiao Qianhe.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Xiao Qianhe kept roaring angrily, staring at Di Chen.

    Little Demon Realm:

    The six great experts surrounded Chen Fan. They had grown stronger since theirst fight.

    It was like furnaces were revolving inside them. Rumbling noises rang out non-stop, shaking people¡¯s hearts.

    Alongside these six strongest experts were others in the first-level Heavenly Star realm, such as the Second Fiend and Third Fiend. Murderous qi erupted from all of them, seemingly ready to deal a fatal blow to Chen Fan.

    The six second-level Heavenly Star realm peerless geniuses had each taken their positions and gathered their auras. The entire space around here was sealed; they would not give Chen Fan any more chances.

    Not even the Evening Star Golden Storm could kill Chen Fan; he was far too terrifying.

    Allowing such a foe to live would threaten their lives, so they needed to eliminate him as soon as possible.

    ¡°Chen Fan, anyst words?¡± Qin Wang said, ¡°This is the end of the road for you. There¡¯s no escape for you, neither in heaven nor on earth. Since the Evening Star Golden Storm couldn¡¯t kill you, I will take that achievement.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, Chen Fan,¡± Hong Jun added in a low, muffled voice, his figure bing even more imposing. ¡°All six of us have advanced to the next level and joined hands to kill you. Show us what you¡¯ve got and fight us to the death. Even if you die, it will be an honorable death.¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan, I¡¯ll use your fresh blood to pay offerings to my fifth brother today. And make no mistake¡ªyou will die here!¡± said the First Fiend with overflowing killing intent.

    ¡°Very well, we are all here now.¡± Chen Fan scanned his surroundings, took a deep breath, and said, ¡°Then, I should alsoe clean. I wanted Gu Hao to spread the news about me. Why? To lure you all here and catch you in one fell swoop!¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Qin Wang and the others were shocked.

    ¡°Hoho, did you really think I jumped into that storm to die? Let me exin: for me, the Evening Star Golden Storm is a heavenly opportunity. You all thought you could kill me now that you are stronger? Then allow me to show you what it means to be peerless and what it means to experience a... massacre.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s tone sent chills down their spines, like metal grinding against metal. Their expressions shifted, deterred by his aura, leaving them almost speechless.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± The First Dragon Lord snorted coldly and said, ¡°Chen Fan, no need to bluff. I admit that you¡¯re very strong, but I got a rough idea of your true strength through ourst exchange. The peak of the second level, I would say. You im you lured us here to catch us all at once? What a joke! Everyone, don¡¯t let him intimidate you!¡±

    The First Fiend said, ¡°Everyone, no matter what, we have to kill this little bastard. This man is too scary. If we don¡¯t kill him, none of us can eat or sleep in peace. We¡¯ve already formed a deep grudge with him. If he escapes, we¡¯ll all face disaster once he advances into the Heavenly Star realm.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, it¡¯s indeed incredibly dangerous if we don¡¯t kill this bastard. He was already very terrifying three months ago. Imagine how much stronger he¡¯ll be in the future! We must remove this enemy as soon as possible!¡± Qin Wang added coldly.

    Chen Fan looked at them with a smile and said, ¡°Aren¡¯t you all afraid of death?¡±

    ¡°Everyone, don¡¯t fall for his trick to drive a wedge between us. We can only kill this man if we unite our strength. He¡¯s only putting up a strong front!¡± said the First Dragon Lord.

    ¡°Strike together; don¡¯t hesitate. Don¡¯t give him a chance to flee. If he escapes again, we¡¯ll be in danger in the future!¡± roared the First Fiend. A sonic wave rippled out, making others¡¯ blood boil.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    All of them knew that there was no time to lose. They must kill Chen Fanpletely this time to end all future troubles.

 Chapter 715 - All Eyes on Him

    <h4>Chapter 715 - All Eyes on Him</h4>

    The six great experts pounced on Chen Fan, igniting a battle that shook the heavens.

    High above the Demon Realm tform, the crystal scoreboard began to emit a powerful aura.

    The auras on the names of those ranked at the top suddenly collided, making the scoreboard disy various phenomena, releasing streams of multicolored light and auspicious qi.

    ¡°They¡¯re shing!¡±

    Countless experts tensed at the sight, their minds twitching as they realized a group was battling Chen Fan.

    This happened every time the Demon Hunting Competition peaked¡ªwhen the fiercest battles broke out, the scoreboard would reflect the auras of the top contenders.

    ¡°Look at the crystal scoreboard! Qin Wang, First Dragon Lord, First Fiend, Hong Jun, Ye Wushuang, and Liu Zong¡¯s auras are shing with Chen Fan¡¯s.¡±

    ¡°The real big battle has started. All those top ten experts are working together to fight him! It¡¯s rare to see something like this. Even if Chen Fan had three heads and six arms, it¡¯d be impossible to resist an attack from so many experts.¡±

    ¡°But Chen Fan didn¡¯t die. His name still shines brightly. Such a pity that we can¡¯t witness this battle and could only feel it from the crystal scoreboard.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Not good!¡± Jian Qi and the others¡¯ expressions darkened. ¡°All those guys are besieging Junior Brother. He¡¯s in grave danger. Even if he¡¯s as tough as iron, he can¡¯t withstand an endless barrage of attacks. He¡¯spletely outnumbered.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right! Junior Brother probably disappeared because these people surrounded him and severely injured him. He spent those three months recuperating, and now he¡¯s being besieged again!¡± Yan Weiyi¡¯s expression also sank.

    Despite the Peerless Peak members being considered freaks, invincible in their realm, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation level remained his weakness, putting him at a disadvantage against the First Dragon Lord and the others.

    With six experts attacking him, their worries deepened.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. There¡¯s nothing we can do now. We have to trust that Chen Fan can turn this misfortune into a blessing.¡± Di Chen¡¯s expression was also grave.

    ¡°Haha, Chen Fan, you devil¡¯s reincarnate bastard! Today, we¡¯ll see how a little bastard like you meets his end!¡± Xiao Qianheughed viciously, eager to witness Chen Fan¡¯s downfall.

    Members of other peaks smirked, enjoying the unfolding drama.

    Though Peerless Peak was small in number, each member was unrivaled in their realm. If Chen Fan was added to their fold, then the Peerless Peak would rule over the True Martial Academy in the future.

    So, eliminating Chen Fan was the same as removing a ticking time bomb.

    Everyone''s attention focused on Chen Fan¡¯s name as it shed with the auras of the six top experts. The sound of swirling clouds and mist echoed across hundreds of thousands of kilometers, resonating for all to hear.

    Some peak Manifestation realm experts began analyzing the intense battle based on thepeting auras.

    Things had exceeded everyone¡¯s expectations.

    Just when everyone had gotten past Chen Fan¡¯s death, he unexpectedly reappeared, shing fiercely with the six top experts. Just picturing this scene sent adrenaline coursing through the crowd.

    ¡°As expected of a Peerless Peak disciple. Truly, none of them are mediocre. They¡¯re all freaks. A lower-leveled martial artist is taking on so many experts.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? Chen Fan is too powerful. It¡¯s too bad we can¡¯t witness the battle of these geniuses with our own eyes. It definitely is an earth-shaking battle. The First Dragon Lord, Qin Wang, Hong Jun, and the others are all peerless figures.¡±

    ¡°Six top figures are besieging Chen Fan alone. Will he survive?¡±

    ¡°I think his chances are slim at best. Chen Fan remained dormant for three months, likely due to a simr situation where he was severely injured. He escaped and recuperated, but during that time, Qin Wang and the others kept improving while Chen Fan remained stagnant. How could he be a match for them? But he can¡¯t be underestimated, either. It would be extremely difficult to kill him. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll escape in the end.¡±

    ¡°Underestimate him? If he could escape under the siege of six top experts, it would be a victory for him and a failure for them. It depends on whether he can survive or not.¡±

    ¡°Indeed, surviving this would be a victory, and his fame would skyrocket, solidifying his position as the top figure among the younger generation of the eastern continent.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see. This battle has everyone¡¯s attention...¡±

    The entire Demon Realm tform was in a feverish mood.

    People felt a mix of excitement, jealousy, anger, and grief as they stared at the crystal scoreboard, eager to see which names would fall first.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Little Demon Realm:

    Qin Wang, First Dragon Lord, First Fiend, Hong Jun, Ye Wushuang, and Liu Zong surrounded Chen Fan, unleashing lethal attacks. Waves of divine light bombarded him from all sides.

    Standing at the center, Chen Fan radiatedyers of golden light, exuding a terrifying pressure that pushed back against the onught.

    These divine lights fell on him, but none of the attacks could prate his defenses.

    ¡°What?¡±

    This scene shocked Qin Wang and the others. They were all inexplicably shaken.

    ¡°You thought I was fighting the First Dragon Lord with my true strength? Howughable! You have no idea what I obtained in the Evening Star Golden Storm. You can¡¯t even begin to fathom my power now!¡± Chen Fan roared, his aura exploding and filling the sky, shaking the very fabric of the universe.

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    ¡°Flood Dragon Murder!¡±

    With that, the Flood Dragon Spear in his hand sprang to life, transforming into a real flood dragon. Its dragon might surged, roaring furiously as it tore through everything and charged at Chen Fan.

    Flood dragons embodied chaos and ughter, synonymous with brutality!

    Chen Fan strode forth and grabbed at the air with his hand without looking. It was like the hand of god, grasping the oing flood dragon and crushing it.

    An exceptional Grade-5 treasure shattered into a pile of scrap metal upon impact.

    Chen Fan¡¯s physique was so terrifying that even a Grade-5 treasure couldn¡¯t leave a mark on him, no matter how freely it struck.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    He turned into a blur, moving at such high speed that he crushed the surrounding space, causing it to explode. In an instant, he appeared before the First Dragon Lord.

    With a horizontal stroke of a golden palm seal, he shattered all of the First Dragon Lord¡¯s defenses and struck him mercilessly.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    The palm strike nearly made the First Dragon Lord explode like a watermelon. Loud banging noises rang out from him.

    That was the sound of his tendons and bones breaking and his organs rupturing.

    The second-level Heavenly Star realm First Dragon Lord couldn¡¯t even withstand a palm strike from Chen Fan and was sent flying.

 Chapter 716 - Standing There and Letting You Bombard

    <h4>Chapter 716 - Standing There and Letting You Bombard</h4>

    ¡°Heavenly Halberd!¡±

    Qin Wang¡¯s murderous qi suddenly surged, and he swung his Heavenly Halberd straight at Chen Fan¡¯s neck.

    Chen Fan let the weapon strike him, producing the sound of metal shing and sparks flying.

    <i>ng!</i>

    ¡°What?¡±

    Qin Wang¡¯s expression changed drastically; his killing move failed to even shake Chen Fan. It was too unbelievable.

    Exactly how strong was Chen Fan¡¯s physique? Not even an exceptional Grade-5 treasure could hurt him!

    ¡°You think you can injure me with scrap metal? Overestimating yourself!¡± Chen Fan mocked, flicking a finger at Qin Wang¡¯s Heavenly Halberd.

    The Grade-5 treasure cracked instantly, destroyed by a single flick.

    Hong Jun charged over like an iron tower, his aura astounding.

    ¡°Great Deste Ax!¡± He swung violently, the space around him shattering into primal chaos under the terrifying force.

    Chen Fan looked up, calmly caught the ax in his hand, and pinched it.

    <i>ng!</i>

    The ax squealed as Chen Fan''s grip left deep marks on it. With a casual toss, Chen Fan flung Hong Jun and his ax aside like a helpless chick.

    <i>Gagaga.</i>

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Suddenly, a sharp aura erupted from behind, aiming for Chen Fan¡¯s back.

    ¡°Sword of Kassapa, God yer!¡±

    Ye Wushuang had arrived,unching a terrifying sword strike with the power to kill gods and annihte immortals.

    This was no ordinary move¡ªit was a heaven-tier martial art of extraordinary power.

    Chen Fan spun around and thrust his palm forward, arge golden hand smashing Ye Wushuang¡¯s terrifying sword qi into fragments. The shattered qi dissipated, and Ye Wushuang coughed up blood as the impact threw him backward.

    <i>Patter!</i>

    A muffled sound rang out. The First Fiend and Liu Zong silently appeared behind Chen Fan, punching at Chen Fan simultaneously.

    ¡°Exploding Star Kill!¡±

    ¡°Xingtian¡¯s Murder!¡± [1]

    The two unleashed their well-coordinated killing moves, pouring all their power into a single strike, hoping to prate Chen Fan''s physique and destroy his organs. But it was futile.

    His Hegemonic Golden Body had reached level 10, turning his flesh, blood, tendons, bones, and membranes into a faintly golden, nearly indestructible form.

    Theirbined attack couldn¡¯t even scratch him. He swayed like a tree in the wind, effortlessly dispersing the force of their blows.

    ¡°All talk, no substance!¡±

    With a broad, sweeping motion, Chen Fan struck with both fists, shaking the heavens like meteorites crashing down. He shattered their protective true primeval and true primeval qi shields, and the terrifying force surged into them, leaving them coughing up blood as they were violently hurled away.

    <i>Whoa, whoa!</i>

    All of a sudden, bursts of exmation rang out in space.

    The six top experts had simultaneously unleashed their killing moves on Chen Fan.

    Yet, they failed to even shake him. The First Dragon Lord, Qin Wang, and Hong Jun¡¯s weapons were even destroyed.

    Chen Fan¡¯s physical strength was beyondprehension. It defied logic.

    ¡°So scary! It¡¯s too scary! My word, what exactly did Chen Fan do? He¡¯s clearly a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert, so why is he so terrifyingly powerful!¡±

    ¡°I feel like I¡¯m about to suffocate. I came here expecting the six experts to kill Chen Fan. How did things turn out like this? Are the six of them really no match for him?¡±

    ¡°He said Qin Wang and the others couldn¡¯t imagine what he obtained in the Evening Star Golden Storm. Is that why he¡¯s be so terrifying?¡±

    ¡°That must be it. He must have gotten something incredible in the storm that made his physique this terrifying. Grade-5 treasure couldn¡¯t hurt him and he tore Heavenly Star realm experts apart with his bare hands.¡±

    ¡°Now Qin Wang and the others are in trouble! They came to kill Chen Fan, but it looks like he nned to lure them here and finish them all at once.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Countless onlookers watched from afar, horrified by what they saw. Chen Fan disyed peerless divine might, taking on six top experts and beating Qin Wang and the others so brutally that they were left coughing up blood and retreating in defeat.

    None had expected Chen Fan¡¯s return to be so legendary. He was like a god or a devil.

    Among the crowd, Xiao Zhen couldn¡¯t hide his joy at seeing Chen Fan¡¯s overwhelming power. ¡°Haha, good, I knew Chen Fan wouldn¡¯t die so easily. It¡¯s exactly as I thought!¡±

    He had been devastated when rumors spread that Chen Fan had perished in the storm.

    On a distant mountain peak, Huo Ling¡¯er¡¯s expression also turned grave, her heart trembling as her eyes flickered with emotion.

    ¡°That man... is he a god or a devil reborn? What exactly did he obtain in the Evening Star Golden Storm? Did he absorb the evening star gold qi to strengthen his physique or something?¡±

    Chen Fan stood in the sky like a battle god, his presence overwhelming, his divine might invincible. He nced at Qin Wang and the other top experts and said, ¡°How is it? Are you feeling despair?¡±

    Fear shed in their eyes.

    It was too terrifying!

    Chen Fan hadn¡¯t been bluffing earlier¡ªeverything he said was true.

    ¡°Do it, everyone, strike, kill him together!¡±

    ¡°Yes, do abined attack and break his tortoiseshell!¡±

    Qin Wang and the others roared furiously.

    They knew they were in grave danger. Alone, they were no match for Chen Fan alone, so they needed more people to join the fight to stand a chance.

    Immediately, the auras of the other fiends, and the members of the Law Enforcement Hall, Limitless Peak, and several other halls blossomed.

    There were quite a lot of opportunities in the Little Demon Realm. With thepetition only a month away from ending, many people¡¯s cultivation had improved by leaps and bounds, with many having advanced into the Heavenly Star realm.

    At a nce, there were no fewer than twenty people in the Heavenly Star realm, and around fifty or sixty people in the half-step Heavenly Star realm.

    They had no choice¡ªby surrounding Chen Fan, they were destined to be his enemies, and now was the time to act.

    ¡°Hahahaha, very well. Come at me, all of you! I¡¯ll stand here and take everything you throw at me!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, not showing the slightest hint of fear.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    With almost zero hesitation, the six top geniuses and approximately seventy to eighty Heavenly Star realm and half-step Heavenly Star realm expertsunched an overwhelming attack together, unleashing destructive force that could tear through the ages.

    <i>Crack, crack...</i>

    The space of the Little Demon Realm shattered, and a deste wind blew through.

    The imposing and destructive force reached Chen Fan.

    In an instant, a dazzling array of mixed lights exploded, engulfing Chen Fan like a nuclear st. The entire Little Demon Realm shook violently.

    1. Xingtian is a Chinese deity who fights against the Supreme Divinity, not giving up even after the event of his decapitation. ?

 Chapter 717 - Undying Blood Demon

    <h4>Chapter 717 - Undying Blood Demon</h4>

    On a mountain peak in the depths of the Little Demon Realm, a tall demon with two sharp fangs opened his eyes.

    This demon narrowed his eyes slightly, sensing the minute fluctuations in space, quickly recognizing the spread of powerful energy from a distant location.

    ¡°What intense energy fluctuation!

    ¡°Damn the True Martial Academy for sealing and trapping our demon race experts in this realm! Damn it, damn it. If not for that, our demon army would have swept through everything and ughtered these lowly worms!" His voice dripped with brutality.

    He was an undying blood demon¡ªpart of the Undying Blood n, one of the nine royal ns of the Hell Demon Realm.

    Known for their bloodsucking fangs and blood-colored eyes, the n was infamous. However, this demon was a mixed breed with an impure bloodline,cking the signature blood-colored eyes.

    It was said that the blood demons ravaging Tianwu Continent had ties to this n.

    In ancient times, a powerful demon king of the n created the Blood Emperor Demonic Scripture after witnessing the human race''s rise to prominence, unleashing blood demons across the continent.

    The n''s strength came from blood¡ªit fueled their cultivation.

    ¡°Perfect. I avoided the seal, and these rookie disciples have weak cultivation. If I kill them all, I can wipe out their younger generation of geniuses!¡±

    A bloodthirsty luster shed across the eyes of this undying blood demon. Although he wasn¡¯t a purebred, his cultivation was still very powerful, reaching the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm.

    ......

    <i>Buzz, buzz!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The six top experts, together with about seventy to eighty first-level Heavenly Star realm and half-step Heavenly Star realm experts, attacked Chen Fan.

    In an instant, countless mixed lights tore through heaven and earth, unleashing a terrifying storm of destion from the shattered space.

    The area where Chen Fan stood transformed into a ck hole as forces collided and exploded in a blinding light.

    Everyone who saw this scene froze, their souls shaken, and gasped in disbelief.

    ¡°He... he... really just stood there and allowed Qin Wang and the others... to bombard him!¡±

    The crowd was shocked beyond words, failing toprehend what had happened.

    Thebined attack of the top experts and seventy to eighty Heavenly Star and half-step Heavenly Star realm experts could even heavily injure, if not kill, a fourth or fifth-level Heavenly Star realm expert.

    How could Chen Fan be so arrogant?

    Countless eyes focused on the center of the energy storm, desperate to see whether Chen Fan had survived such a terrifying assault.

    Even Qin Wang and the others were nervous.

    They had all attacked together, and if that wasn¡¯t enough to harm Chen Fan, they would truly despair.

    In their hearts, they prayed that thebined attack had blown him to pieces, leaving no trace of him behind.

    But just as the tension peaked, a voice echoed.

    ¡°Not bad, not bad at all!¡±

    Resplendent golden light erupted from within the storm, and Chen Fan emerged,pletely unscathed.

    This scene left everyone presentpletely dumbfounded.

    <i>He didn¡¯t die!</i>

    <i>Chen Fan actually withstood such a terrifying attack!</i>

    <i>How is that possible?</i>

    Everyone could not think anymore.

    They couldn¡¯t imagine how Chen Fan managed to withstand this terrifying strike.

    Even his clothes remained untouched, leaving the crowd wondering if Qin Wang and the others''bined attack was just for show.

    While the crowd was in shock, Qin Wang and hispanions were filled with despair.

    They knew that they had gathered all their power to execute an earth-shattering strike. Even a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm expert would suffer if caught off guard.

    But Chen Fan?

    He was only in the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. How could he possibly survive their killing blow?

    On what basis?

    Chen Fan did not care about what these people were thinking. His exmation wasn¡¯t praise for the attack¡¯s strength but for his own Hegemonic Golden Body.

    No one knew better than him how terrifying the power contained in Qin Wang and the others¡¯bined attack was¡ªstanding at the center felt like enduring a nuclear explosion.

    Yet, his level 10 Hegemonic Golden Body remained unscathed. The only effect was a slight tremor in his qi and blood.

    Too powerful.

    His Hegemonic Golden Body was too powerful.

    At level 10, no martial artist below the Manifestation realm could kill him.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, very good. Risking my life was worth it. I¡¯m not disappointed!¡± Chen Fanughed out loud, his voice shaking the heavens. Then, his smile faded as he turned his gaze toward Qin Wang and the others.

    Qin Wang and the others felt their souls tremble, feeling like they were being targeted by an ancient ferocious beast.

    A sense of impending disaster overwhelmed them. Fear gripped their hearts, and none dared meet his eyes.

    ¡°Terrifying, too terrifying. Chen Fan is a monster. How could a person¡¯s physique be strong to such an extent?¡±

    ¡°His body cultivation technique must be heaven-tier, maybe even higher!¡±

    ¡°I know, he must have borrowed the power of the Evening Star Golden Storm to cultivate his physique. That¡¯s why he became so powerful.¡±

    ¡°Yes, that must be the case!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd slowly pieced together what Chen Fan had gained from the Evening Star Golden Storm.

    Using such a storm to cultivate his physique was unimaginable¡ªit left them shaken to the core. One wrong move in that storm could have torn him to pieces, but Chen Fan was bold enough to take that risk.

    Chen Fan was too daring, to make use of the Evening Star Golden Storm to cultivate. They definitely wouldn¡¯t dare to do so.

    No one among them would have dared, but they had to admit, it was a gamble that paid off.

    Chen Fan had risked his life in such an unfair gamble and entered the Evening Star Golden Storm to cultivate, emerging with a physique of terrifying power. He had earned all of that with his life.

    ¡°Sorry to disappoint you. Even with all of you attacking together, you still couldn''t harm me. Now, are you ready to face me?"

    Chen Fan looked at Qin Wang and the others, his eyes not showing the slightest hint of emotion. It was as if he was looking at a bunch of corpses.

    People like the First Dragon Lord and the First Fiend had blood feuds with him, and people like Qin Wang and Hong Jun only wanted to kill him to prove themselves because they were jealous of him. That was simply asking for trouble.

    Since these people were seeking death, Chen Fan was happy to grant these people¡¯s wishes.

 Chapter 718 - Geniuses Falling Like Raindrops

    <h4>Chapter 718 - Geniuses Falling Like Raindrops</h4>

    As Chen Fan¡¯s cold words echoed, a chill crept all the way from Qin Wang and the others¡¯ feet to their skulls. Despite the absence of any murderous intent from Chen Fan, this only intensified their terror.

    Qin Wang''s face turned pale as if he were on the brink of death.

    ¡°Everyone, there¡¯s no other way. It¡¯s either him or us today. He must be a devil reincarnate. Don¡¯t hesitate anymore. If you don¡¯t wish to die, then use the Noble Bloodshed Technique!¡±

    He spat out a mouthful of blood, igniting it to activate the technique.

    Immediately, he broke free of his shackles, and his aura reached the third-level Heavenly Star realm.

    He understood Chen Fan¡¯s terrifying strength all too well; theirbined attack had barely fazed him. There was no escape now¡ªthey had to risk their lives.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    In an instant, the First Dragon Lord and the others followed suit, unleashing the Noble Bloodshed Technique.

    Their auras skyrocketed, shaking the heavens. If second-level Heavenly Star realm cultivation wasn¡¯t enough, then third-level it would be!

    Those at the first-level Heavenly Star realm and half-step Heavenly Star realm cultivation also struck their chests, spewing blood as they activated the Noble Bloodshed Technique.

    ¡°Hahahaha, why are you so sure that¡¯s enough to stop me? Your naivety is amusing! Come, face your death!¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t afraid of the Noble Bloodshed Technique at all. His figure blurred as he charged into their midst like a ferocious tiger among sheep, beginning his massacre.

    ¡°He¡¯s too scary. He actually forced them to use the Noble Bloodshed Technique.¡±

    ¡°I fear it won¡¯t matter, even with the technique. That¡¯s what truly makes this despairing.¡±

    ¡°It can¡¯t be! Just because Qin Wang and the others''bined attack failed to hurt Chen Fan doesn¡¯t mean he¡¯s invincible.¡±

    ¡°True, but if they can¡¯t breach his defenses, how can they hope to fight him?¡±

    ¡°I can already picture countless people outside the Little Demon Realm stomping their feet in anger.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The eyes of the onlookers flickered with intensity. They had never expected events to unfold this way; Chen Fan¡¯s strength far exceeded their expectations.

    ¡°Kill!¡± shouted Qin Wang and the others. Wrapped in towering auras, they darted toward Chen Fan.

    In this battle, it was either Chen Fan or them¡ªthere was no third option.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan roared, sweeping out with his halberd. A terrifying halberd light ravaged heaven and earth, unstoppable by anyone. It broke apart the six top experts¡¯ attacks, and the impact sent these people flying back, blood spraying from their mouths.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Chen Fan thrust out his left hand repeatedly.

    Palm seals flew from him, covering the sky and suppressing thend. Experts exploded one after another, their divine nascent unable to escape.

    All those deaths pushed Chen Fan¡¯s score to new heights.

    Demon Realm tform:

    ¡°Look, Chen Fan¡¯s score has moved!¡±

    ¡°Oh crud, it¡¯s rising so fast. It¡¯s soaring!¡±

    ¡°Look, guys, so many people¡¯s names are disappearing. They¡¯ve perished.¡±

    ¡°They must have been killed by Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°No shit. They were all members of the Law Enforcement Hall and Heavenly Bastion Peak. They must have joined forces with Qin Wang and the others to besiege Chen Fan, only to die at his hands instead.¡±

    ¡°Surely not, the six of them are already very terrifying. How can they still fail?!¡±

    ¡°Who knows what exactly the situation is like in the Little Demon Realm?¡±

    ¡°My god, they¡¯re dying too quickly!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The crowd on the Demon Realm tform was in an uproar.

    The crowd watched as Chen Fan¡¯s score on the crystal scoreboard soared like a rocket. As his score skyrocketed, many names began to vanish.

    Everyone knew that those whose names disappeared had perished, killed by Chen Fan.

    They could almost visualize the massacre.

    Contrary to the gloomy and ugly expressions on the Law Enforcement Hall and Heavenly Bastion Peak¡¯s side, the Peerless Peak¡¯s side was all happy and excited.

    ¡°Hahahaha, good, good, good, that¡¯s how our peak¡¯s disciple should be! He didn¡¯t bring shame to our Peerless Peak! These pieces of trash should have been cut down long ago for daring to surround our disciple. They¡¯re courting death!¡±

    Although they had no clear picture of the situation in the Little Demon Realm, they could guess that Chen Fan was on a killing spree.

    Immediately, the Law Enforcement Hall, Heavenly Bastion Peak, and Great Cliff Peak¡¯s members shot them sharp res, filled with hatred.

    The Law Enforcement Hall and the Heavenly Bastion Peak¡¯s people shouted angrily one after another.

    ¡°Di Chen, Chen Fan is a great devil. He¡¯s already possessed by the demons in the Little Demon Realm and is even going on a killing spree inside. This is ughtering the future of our True Martial Academy!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, he must be severely punished. We must capture Chen Fan and execute this devil on the spot as a warning to the others!¡±

    Di Chen sneered coldly, ¡°Howughable! Isn¡¯t your act of besieging our Peerless Peak disciple the real threat to the future of the academy?! I¡¯ll say this: whoever dares toy a finger on Chen Fan will face our Peerless Peak as an enemy. Go ahead and try!¡±

    In an instant, shocking killing intent erupted from the four Peerless Peak disciples.

    ......

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Miserable screams rose and fell. This was truly a massacre.

    Despite Qin Wang and the others using the Noble Bloodshed Technique, raising their cultivation levels by a small realm, Chen Fan simply ignored their attacks, allowing these attacks to bombard him.

    Qin Wang and the others¡¯ attacks could not hurt Chen Fan, but could they withstand Chen Fan¡¯s attack?

    Sword qi ravaged thends, sweeping through everything. Countless people were cut to pieces, and even their divine nascent was annihted.

    Severed limbs flew everywhere. Fresh blood fell like pouring rain.

    Looking at this scene, the surrounding onlookers forgot to breathe.

    It was too tragic.

    For Qin Wang and the others, this was apocalyptic¡ªa cmity.

    Chen Fan struck mercilessly. One word summed it up: massacre!

    ¡°A devil, Chen Fan is a devil!¡±

    ¡°Those are geniuses. They died just like that.¡±

    ¡°These people must be feeling extremely regretful. If they had known that Qin Wang and the others would mess with Chen Fan, they wouldn¡¯t have entered these halls, no matter what.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? They ruined themselves. Qin Wang, Hong Jun, and the others had no grudges against Chen Fan, but they just had to find trouble with him because of their jealousy. Now, they got themselves into trouble.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    These people watched as geniuses perished one after another,menting in their hearts.

    Originally, these people had a bright future ahead of them, but because of Qin Wang and the others, they ended up dead.

    Who was to me?

    Chen Fan?

    It was clearly these people who took the initiative to provoke Chen Fan, so he couldn¡¯t be med.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 719 - Prides of Heaven Perishes

    <h4>Chapter 719 - Prides of Heaven Perishes</h4>

    In the distant void, the undying blood demon had already arrived, hiding as he secretly observed the battle ahead.

    ¡°Hoho, so many human geniuses... The academy rookies are indeed here for the Demon Hunting Competition. Keke, but who''s really hunting whom?"

    He could smell the delicious scent of blood¡ªeach of those True Martial Academy geniuses had powerful cultivation and their own fortuitous encounters, their vitality robust and brimming with energy.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    His eyes flickered with excitement.

    ¡°If I can consume their blood, I can advance to the seventh or eighth-level Heavenly Star realm, maybe even breaking through to the Manifestation realm.¡±

    Rather than act recklessly, he stayed hidden.

    There were too many geniuses here. If he showed himself, they would attack like a crashing tide. Even with his fifth-level Heavenly Star realm, he would be crushed.

    ¡°Kill, kill, the more of you dead, the better. But that blood qi won''t go to waste¡ªit belongs to me!"

    Using his demonic powers in secret, he began absorbing the blood qi energy from the dead without anyone noticing.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The space turned chaotic as storms raged madly.

    ¡°State Divine Pce!¡± Qin Wang shouted as a pce flew from his mouth, overturning the sky.

    Qin Wang had oncee across a heavenly fortuitous encounter when he was young, obtaining the qi of the Royal Dao and cultivating the Royal Dao physique. He was born to rule. This State Divine Pce was a treasure left behind by that emperor.

    A state, the representation of an entire nation, pressed down at once, shattering space with terrifying force.

    The First Fiend spat out blood, mixing it with his ck great ax¡ªan ancient weapon of naturalistic carving and uncanny craftsmanship¡ªas he swung it down to cleave Chen Fan like a mountain.

    ¡°Ghostly Ax of Divine Craft!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord, Hong Jun, and the others unleashed their treasures, attacking with full force. They activated their bloodline and life force, all to seed in killing Chen Fan.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The impact threw Chen Fan back.

    Although they failed to prate his flesh, the terrifying force still shook his organs, leaving his qi and blood shaken.

    These people were all monstrous geniuses, so abined attack was bound to be absolutely terrifying.

    Chen Fan suppressed his tumbling qi and blood and said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s useless. You idiots can¡¯t even imagine the might of the Hegemonic Golden Body. These tricks of yours can¡¯t even scratch it.¡±

    Desperation filled their eyes.

    They had given everything, yet they couldn¡¯t harm Chen Fan. The despair was overwhelming, but they had no choice but to continue.

    ¡°Attack!¡±

    Theyunched another fierce assault, putting all their strength into it.

    "It¡¯s futile. The second I left the Evening Star Golden Storm alive, your efforts were doomed to fail. You will fail."

    Chen Fan shook, unleashing massive golden palms again. They could copse mountains and overturn seas. Each strike seemed capable of obliterating a.

    Great Brahma Sacred Palm could destroy all, pushing across three thousand great realms, unstoppable by anyone. It broke apart Qin Wang and the others¡¯ attacks, turning them all into nothing.

    ¡°Sword of Kassapa, God Killer!¡±

    <i>Puchi, puchi...</i>

    Numerous sword lights appeared around Ye Wushuang. They formed a chaotic sword formation overflowing with murderous qi, capable of killing and destroying demons and gods.

    Every pore on him worked to unleash his strongest skill.

    The sword formation spread out, producing numerous streaks of sword light. In that sword formation, he, too, had be a sword, shing at Chen Fan.

    Even the space split in half. Chen Fan¡¯s protective true primeval was cut through like butter and exploded.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    Qin Wang and the others roared wildly, their berserk true primeval burning with enough power to split heaven and earth. Theyunched a furious bombardment at Chen Fan.

    ¡°I already told you, it¡¯s useless. All that yelling is futile. Meet your death!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s indifferent voice rang out. He caught the Sword of Kassapa mid-sh and crushed it in his hand.

    Ye Wushuang coughed up blood from the bacsh, his aura copsing.

    ¡°It¡¯s time someone among you six died!¡±

    Chen Fan strode forth like a god traversing through space-time.

    His Purgatory Divine Halberd was like a halberd of death, radiating the power of death. He stabbed the First Dragon Lord¡¯s skull in a sh.

    ¡°No!¡± roared the First Dragon Lord angrily, sending out attacks madly to stop it.

    However, in front of Chen Fan, everything he did was futile.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd broke through everything and pierced the First Dragon Lord¡¯s head. A terrifying force thoroughly destroyed all signs of vitality.

    ¡°First.¡±

    Chen Fan pulled out the divine halberd. The First Dragon Lord plummeted from the sky lifelessly, and he charged toward Qin Wang without even looking at the corpse.

    ¡°Royal Dao Divine Fist!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord¡¯s death left Qin Wang and the others shaking with fear.

    Chen Fan killed someone as powerful as them in an instant.

    The terrifying Royal Dao Divine Fist surged like numerous sovereign dragons, embodying the will of emperors.

    However, Chen Fan broke apart the Royal Dao Divine Fist with just a casual wave of his hand and arrived in front of Qin Wang. His indifferent voice was like a death knell. ¡°We had no grudges between us, but you just had toe find trouble with me. Now, die.¡±

    ¡°No! Don¡¯t kill me! I was wrong, I realized my mistake. Chen Fan, spare my life, I¡¯ll work like a ve under you!¡±

    Qin Wang begged for mercy in the face of death.

    ¡°Work like a ve? I don¡¯t need it!¡±

    However, Chen Fan did not make the slightest pause. His divine halberd pierced Qin Wang¡¯s head. In an instant, his head exploded, and his divine nascent shrieked as it dissipated.

    Qin Wang¡¯s headless corpse fell.

    Everyone¡¯s hearts twitched violently.

    A second pride of heaven had perished. He was even the strongest one among the six.

    The crowd felt like they couldn¡¯t breathe. Their minds were trembling so fiercely that they could not contain themselves.

    The First Dragon Lord and Qin Wang, both of whom had stirred countless waves on the Ancient Trial Roads, were killed in session in the blink of an eye.

    ¡°Second!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice rang out again, falling into the ears of the First Fiend, Hong Jun, and the others. They trembled uncontrobly, looking at Chen Fan. Their eyes were filled with horror, as well as endless regret.

    That was especially true for Hong Jun, Ye Wushuang, and Liu Zong. They felt even more remorseful.

    They regretted provoking Chen Fan and attacking him, knowing they had invited disaster upon themselves.

 Chapter 720 - Kill Them All

    <h4>Chapter 720 - Kill Them All</h4>

    Demon Realm tform:

    The crowd erupted when Chen Fan¡¯s score skyrocketed to first ce.

    ¡°First ce, Chen Fan¡¯s score is first ce!¡±

    Momentster, the crowd noticed the First Dragon Lord¡¯s name vanish from the crystal scoreboard. The news hit like a depth charge, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

    ¡°Look! First Dragon Lord¡¯s name has disappeared. He died, he died!¡±

    Xiao Qianhe quickly realized that the First Dragon Lord was dead and let out a sorrowful cry that shook heaven and earth.

    ¡°First Dragon Lord!¡±

    The First Dragon Lord was the most outstanding genius the Law Enforcement Hall had recruited this time, personally taken in by Elder Tian Xing as a disciple. He had hoped to reach the Legendary realm, but now he was gone.

    This was like a bolt from the blue.

    Before Xiao Qianhe couldsh out at the Peerless Peak, the crowd erupted again.

    ¡°My god, Qin Wang has also died!¡±

    ¡°He died. Qin Wang¡¯s also dead. My god, the sky has fallen, the sky has fallen!¡±

    The crowd saw that Chen Fan¡¯s score had soared once more. Even the Peerless Peak¡¯s total score had soared to first ce.

    On the Heavenly Bastion Peak¡¯s side, a youth let out an angry roar. This person was the Heavenly Bastion Peak¡¯s first disciple, Chu Chunqiu.

    ¡°Junior Brother!¡±

    Seeing Qin Wang¡¯s name vanish, Chu Chunqiu realized he had died in the Little Demon Realm. This was a huge blow to their peak.

    Everyone felt thoroughly shaken.

    Two prides of heaven had perished in session, happening within mere breaths of each other.

    This meant that Chen Fan killed them both in just moments. That was too terrifying.

    Qin Wang and the others had tried to use their numbers to kill Chen Fan; they were dying.

    The expressions of the leading figures from Great Cliff Peak, Stargazer Peak, Unsheathed Peak, and Limitless Peak shifted wildly.

    If ordinary geniuses died, that was unfortunate but bearable; these main peaks had no shortage of them.

    However, prides of heaven like Hong Jun and Liu Zong were rare. Losing one felt even worse than losing a hundred ordinary geniuses.

    If these ordinary geniuses were lucky, they could cultivate to the Manifestation realm, but geniuses like Liu Zong were seeds for the Legendary realm. Their deaths meant fewer potential Legendary realm experts on their respective peaks.

    Legendary realm experts, standing at the apex of the Tianwu Continent, were the core figures of the main peaks.

    Although Hong Jun, Liu Zong, and the others were still alive, the First Dragon Lord and Qin Wang were dead. Could they escape their tragic fate?

    Their killing intent toward Chen Fan reached the sky. He was killing their potential Legendary realm peak experts.

    Hong Jun, Liu Zong, and the other geniuses werepletely terrified.

    ¡°Leave, quickly leave, run!¡±

    Chen Fan was too terrifying, making them feel like ants before him.

    The gap between them and Chen Fan was insurmountable.

    Regret!

    Deep regret!

    ¡°Leave? Can you? Today, all you people shall die!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold voice sent a chill straight into the people¡¯s hearts.

    He rubbed his palms together, and several Heaven Piercing Spears materialized. They shot forward, piercing through space and destroying the universe, whizzing toward Hong Jun and the others.

    ¡°All of you shall die!¡±

    Streaks of Green Lotus Sword Qi erupted from Chen Fan, sweeping out in all directions. Numerous geniuses fell at once, their miserable screams echoing as fresh blood rained down.

    A massacre.

    This was a massacre.

    In front of Chen Fan, these eastern continent geniuses were all talk and no substance¡ªweaklings like ants.

    ¡°Risk it all, use forbidden techniques and kill him!¡± shouted the First Fiend. His arms exploded, transforming into two blood dragons as his aura doubled. ¡°Heavenly Demon Sacrifice!¡±

    ¡°This is... By crippling himself and damaging his cultivation, he can unleash ten times his power. But afterward, he will regress, possibly falling from the second-level Heavenly Star realm to the first level or even half-step Heavenly Star realm. It¡¯s a shockingly costly technique!¡±

    Hong Jun was overwhelmed with terror at the sight. His eyes nearly popped out, with blood flowing out.

    ¡°I can¡¯t care about the cost anymore. It¡¯s better to live than to die.¡±

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Hong Jun also used a great killing move, sacrificing his cultivation in the process.

    The four remaining experts activated their secret arts and attacked Chen Fan again¡ªit was now do or die.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The First Dragon Lord and Qin Wang also had such secret arts, but Chen Fan didn¡¯t give them the chance to use them.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless.¡±

    Golden light surged from Chen Fan, his aura swallowing heaven and earth. Streams of true primeval shot out, washing the space.

    He moved freely amidst that terrifying offensive power, like a saint.

    His long hair cascaded over his shoulders, flowing like a waterfall. Each strand contained magnificent power capable of dissecting a continent.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Chen Fan rushed over like a dragon-elephant, interrupting Hong Jun¡¯s casting of his secret art. With a miserable cry, Hong Jun exploded into a cloud of dust.

    The Great Brahma Sacred Palm reached out, vast and boundless, as if grasping the entire Little Demon Realm.

    The First Fiend, still using the Heavenly Demon Sacrifice, found himself caught in the palm. He struggled fiercely, but as Chen Fan closed his hand, the First Fiend¡¯s aura abruptly vanished.

    In an instant, Chen Fan crushed a Heavenly Star realm expert wielding his secret art.

    Another two peerless prides of heaven had died quickly, leaving people in despair.

    In front of Chen Fan, they were no different from weaklings.

    Despite using secret arts that sacrificed their cultivation to temporarily boost their strength, they could not withstand a single strike from him.

    The Seven Fiends Organization now only had two fiends left: the Second Fiend and the Seventh Fiend. Seeing their eldest brother being crushed to death, they let out mournful wails and cried tears of blood.

    ¡°Big Brother!¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re finished!¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re all going to die!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s crushing prides of heaven like they are ants. He¡¯s too scary. Who can be his match?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m certain the outside world is going crazy, losing four prides of heaven in session in such a short period. They are all seeds for the Legendary realm.¡±

    ¡°Things have alreadye this far. Is the academy still not stepping in? Are they going to stand by and watch while Chen Fan kills Ye Wushuang and Liu Zong as well?¡±

    ¡°Step in? How is the academy going to step in? Those guys tried to surround and kill Chen Fan. Who can they me for being no match for Chen Fan? Moreover, do you think the Peerless Peak would stand by and do nothing?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The onlooking crowd was horrified by all those deaths.

 Chapter 721 - End?

    <h4>Chapter 721 - End?</h4>

    Ye Wushuang and Liu Zong¡¯s attack reached Chen Fan¡¯s side just as the Fist Fiend and Hong Jun.

    Chen Fan turned around and let their attacksnd. It was like ants trying to shake a tree; he was unfazed.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan punched using the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture, destroying an entire area. Wherever it passed, space dissolved into primal chaos. A vast expanse was vaporized.

    The attack turned Liu Zong into a fine mince. But then, an immense amount of Star God energy scattered, bursting into radiant lights as countless stars rose and fell.

    ¡°Star God Condenses, Invincible Body!¡±

    Liu Zong reformed himself in the starlight from the mangled mass

    As a disciple of Stargazer Peak, he cultivated the power of the stars, practicing the mysterious heaven-tier martial art, Concealed Stars Scripture.

    Yet Chen Fan¡¯s Flood Dragon Fist Scripture crashed down again. His hand grasped all the star phenomena, and Liu Zong began to shrink within his grip, eventually reduced to a seven-inch figure.

    ¡°No!¡± Liu Zong roared to the skies in anguish, ¡°Don¡¯t kill me. I¡¯ll give you all my treasures and points if you let me live. You already killed four of them. If you kill me as well, you''ll shake the entire academy and create an irreconcble grudge with Stargazer Peak. You''ll spark the greatest conflict in the academy¡¯s history!"

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    <i>Snap!</i>

    Chen Fan ignored his plea-cum-threat and let the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture attack close in on him. Liu Zong exploded, and all his impurities and treasures turned into fine powder.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± Liu Zong let out a roar of fury. He kept channeling his cultivation furiously, wanting to reform himself, but it waspletely useless.

    All of him was reduced to nothing in the zing sacred fire.

    Liu Zong, dead!

    Chen Fan turned around, looking at thest person standing: Ye Wushuang.

    Ye Wushuang was trembling in terror, a far cry from the once peerless pride of heaven. Of the six who had stood against Chen Fan, only he remained, powerless to even make a ripple.

    ¡°Chen Fan, I was wrong. I know my mistake. Spare my life. I can hand over the heaven-tier martial art, Kassapa Sword Art, in return. You practice the sword as well. This can make you even stronger!¡±

    Ye Wushuang was on the verge of kneeling to beg him for mercy.

    They were all dead, leaving only him. Regret consumed him; he cursed the moment he joined Hong Jun and Liu Zong in this fight.

    The Peerless Peak had chosen Chen Fan¡ªthat alone should have been warning enough.

    Chen Fan was clearly beyond their league. Did they think themselves stronger than Zhang Daoling? Were they capable of grasping heaven¡¯s mysteries?

    ¡°Do you think admitting your mistake will save you? You came to kill me out of selfish ambition, and now that you¡¯re defeated, you want to escape by admitting your fault? Moreover, the Kassapa Sword Art or whatever, everything you have will be mine after I kill you. I don¡¯t need your offer."

    Chen Fan had always been merciless towards his enemies and would cut off the roots cleanly.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The terrifying Flood Dragon Fist Scripture down from the sky, obliterating the space around it.

    ¡°Ah, damn it. Since that is the case, I¡¯ll fight you. Even if I die, I¡¯ll drag you down with me!¡±

    Begging was useless; he had to do something more drastic. Ye Wushuang¡¯s eyes went bloodshot as he charged Chen Fan without care, unleashing a destructive aura.

    He was going to self-detonate!

    ¡°Thinking of taking me down with you? Are you worthy?¡±

    Chen Fan sneered, shing through the air with his sword. The strike tore the heavens and split Ye Wushuang in half, instantly dissipating the destructive aura.

    The six peerless prides of heaven were dead!

    Their essence, treasures, and points now belonged to Chen Fan. He was the undisputed top figure now.

    The people in the surroundings werepletely stunned.

    Dead.

    The six peerless prides of heaven werepletely wiped out, with not one survivor.

    Among the crowd, several prides of heaven silently counted their blessings, grateful they hadn¡¯t let envy cloud their judgment. Otherwise, they might have shared the same fate.

    Outside, the disappearance of the six top experts'' names brought a heavy silence.

    Qin Wang and the other five were all dead.

    In addition to them, over a hundred geniuses also perished.

    Speechless.

    Silence.

    No one knew what to say.

    In the history of the True Martial Academy, never had such a devastating loss urred before, all at the hands of one person¡ªChen Fan.

    That had lost six potential Legendary realm peak experts.

    Along with them, a hundred other geniuses¡ªfuture Manifestation realm experts¡ªhad also been swept away by Chen Fan, leaving nothing behind.

    Shaken.

    The shock rippled through even the highest-ranking officials, shaking their hearts.

    On the Peerless Peak¡¯s side, Di Chen and the others were also speechless.

    The chaos Chen Fan had unleashed was too overwhelming.

    Although killing wasn¡¯t forbidden in the Demon Hunting Competition, would the halls that had suffered heavy losses, like the Law Enforcement Hall and the Heavenly Bastion Peak, simply let it go?

    Once the Demon Hunting Competition ended and Chen Fan was out, the few disciples of Peerless Peak couldn¡¯t ensure his safety.

    ¡°They all died. This is too scary.¡±

    ¡°What is a Killing God? This is a Killing God.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s over. This massacre is finally over. I can only imagine how things are outside. The halls that suffered must have lost their minds by now."

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>, who can they me?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Looking at the devastation, a faint sense of sadness rose in the crowd¡¯s hearts.

    "What a powerful human," the undying blood demon muttered darkly. "He can''t be allowed to live. If he grows any stronger, he¡¯ll be a great cmity for our demon race. I must kill him! His vitality is incredible. Just thinking about draining his fresh blood stirs a powerful desire in me¡ªI might even advance to the Manifestation realm."

    Despite being only at the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, Chen Fan had defied the heavens, ughtering Qin Wang and other Heavenly Star realm experts. It was truly beyond belief.

    ¡°Perfect. His guard is down now. I have an 80 to 90 percent chance of sess if I strike now. No matter how strong his body is, it can¡¯t withstand a single blow from me."

    The undying blood demon¡¯s eyes gleamed. The demon blended into the void, silently moving toward Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan, who had just begun to rx, suddenly felt rms going off in his mind. An overwhelming sense of danger descended upon him.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Is someone from outside making a move?¡± Chen Fan furrowed his brow.

    No one in this realm should pose a threat to him. This kind of danger could onlye from Manifestation or Legendary realm experts in the outside world.

    Just then, a chilling sneer echoed in his ear.

    ¡°Keke, lowly worm, let me suck your fresh blood dry obediently!¡±

    Suddenly, pain shot through Chen Fan¡¯s neck.

 Chapter 722 - Battling the Undying Blood Demon

    <h4>Chapter 722 - Battling the Undying Blood Demon</h4>

    ¡°Keke, lowly worm, let me suck your fresh blood dry obediently!¡±

    Suddenly, pain shot through Chen Fan¡¯s neck.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Immediately, his blood surged uncontrobly toward his neck. He was astonished.

    From the voice, Chen Fan could tell that the opponent was no Manifestation realm or Legendary realm expert. It was a demon from inside the Little Demon Realm.

    Shockingly, his physique¡ªthe same that could protect him from attacks from Qin Wang and the others and over a hundred other geniuses¡ªhad been broken through by a demon.

    As he felt his blood rushing toward his neck, he recognized that the attacker was an undying blood demon.

    Green Lotus Sword Qi immediately erupted from Chen Fan, bursting out from his back.

    A strange cry echoed in the air as his blood calmed.

    ¡°<i>Kaka</i>!¡±

    Chen Fan turned around fiercely; the undying blood demon had already retreated ten thousand meters away.

    A powerful force erupted from the undying blood demon, blocking the streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi. He kept producing a strange cry.

    <i>Crash!</i>

    The crowd finally noticed the undying blood demon and sensed his iparably powerful aura. Their expressions changed drastically.

    Everyone knew that during the Demon Hunting Competition, the academy would seal off stronger demons in the Little Demon Realm to protect the rookies.

    If Manifestation or Legendary realm demons roamed freely, those Heavenly Star realm participants would be nothing more than prey waiting to be ughtered.

    Though they all knew that the academy allowed a few powerful demons to slip through as part of the test, no one expected to face a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm undying blood demon.

    The crowd''s fear was palpable.

    A fifth-level Heavenly Star realm demon could easily kill them all.

    ¡°Not good, it¡¯s an undying blood demon. Such powerful cultivation, fifth-level Heavenly Star realm!¡±

    ¡°It must have been drawn here by the energy storm from Chen Fan¡¯s battle with the others. We¡¯re in real danger now!¡±

    ¡°The fact that this demon could pierce through Chen Fan¡¯s godlike physique with just its fangs... If he hadn¡¯t unleashed his Green Lotus Sword Qi, his blood would¡¯ve been drained dry. This is terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Run! We can¡¯t stand a chance against this monster!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, run, scatter and run!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The demon¡¯s reputation preceded it¡ªmembers of the Undying Blood n were notoriously hard to kill. Seeing even Chen Fan nearly fall victim to a sneak attack filled them with dread. No one believed they could face such a creature and survive.

    The undying blood demon got rid of Chen Fan¡¯s Green Lotus Sword Qi quickly. Seeing the crowd dispersing, he did not chase after them. His bloodthirsty gaze fell on Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan¡¯s vitality made him desire it, strongly. And when his fangs had pierced Chen Fan¡¯s skin, every cell in his body had done a happy little dance.

    Chen Fan¡¯s blood alone wasparable to all of these scattered lowly wormsbined.

    Sounding somewhat angry, the demon said, ¡°Lowly worm, how dare you still defy the great undying blood demon.¡±

    ¡°You sinful beast, how dare you ambush me!¡±

    Killing intent brewed in the depths of Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, stirring restlessly.

    However, he was very calm. He couldn¡¯t afford to be careless in front of the undying blood demon.

    Not even thebined might of Qin Wang and the others could shake his Hegemonic Golden Body, yet the demon''s fangs had breached it like tofu.

    His most ever-reliable physique seemed powerless against the demon, but he felt no fear.

    Earlier, the demon ambushed him, and his slow reaction led to a flesh wound. Now, fully alert, he knew the undying blood demon would struggle to get close.

    If the demon couldn¡¯t approach him, even if Chen Fan was no match for the undying blood demon, the undying blood demon couldn''t kill him.

    ¡°Lowly worm, it¡¯s your honor to be sustenance for me, you know? Now, give yourself up obediently, and let me suck your blood dry. Dedicate your life to me!¡±

    ¡°A bastard from the Undying Blood n dares to act arrogant before me? Let¡¯s see if I don¡¯t kill you!¡±

    As his voice fell, Chen Fan directly charged over with the Purgatory Divine Halberd in hand. His killing intent around, sweeping through heaven and earth, iparably powerful.

    ¡°Lowly worm, how dare you insult the great undying blood demon. You¡¯ve angered me. You¡¯ve deeply angered me!¡±

    The undying blood demon roared, unleashing a terrifying force that sent invisible ripples exploding outward, destroying everything.

    ¡°Angered your mom, go to hell!¡±

    Chen Fan strode forth imposingly, instantly arriving in front of the undying blood demon.

    The Purgatory Divine Halberd arced through the air, shing at the demon and shattering stars in its wake.

    ¡°Lowly worm, how dare you make a move against the great undying blood demon. Your fate is sealed: death!¡± the demon roared, his eyes shing with divine light that illuminated the surroundings.

    He sped hisrge hand, grasping a myriad of demonic qi to form a protective shield. Chen Fan¡¯s strike struck the shield, sending sparks flying, but the qi shield held firm like Mount Tai.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A blood-colored sword pierced through the void, stabbing toward Chen Fan¡¯s be.

    He felt a sharp pain as the sword approached. In response, he extended a finger and tapped the sword tip.

    <i>ng!</i>

    A destructive force surged through the de, causing it to tremble violently like a constricted snake.

    Chen Fan struck out through the air once more with his arm.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Flood Dragon Fist Scripture sted directly on top of the qi shield, shattering it to pieces.

    The residual force pressed on the undying blood demon, producing a deafening noise and sending him flying out.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    The impact nearly copsed the entire demonic mountain, solidifying an area of the void into crystalline shards.

 Chapter 723 - Undying Nine Transformations

    <h4>Chapter 723 - Undying Nine Transformations</h4>

    The crowd that had once scattered in panic felt the intense fluctuations in space and turned their heads. They saw Chen Fan sending the undying blood demon flying with a palm strike.

    ¡°Look, Chen Fan and that undying blood demon are fighting!¡±

    The crowd sucked in breaths of cold air.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Shockingly, a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm martial artist had sent a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm demon flying.

    They had all witnessed Chen Fan¡¯s might in his fight against Qin Wang and over a hundred others. However, that hadn¡¯t been enough to convince them that Chen Fan could trounce the undying blood demon.

    So, as they saw the demon flying away like a kite, they felt shaken inside.

    The undying blood demon, also surprised by the oue, felt his honor insulted. He roared, ¡°Ahhh, you lowly worm, you¡¯ve hurt me. You¡¯ve hurt me deeply. I¡¯ll suck all of your blood essence and eat your flesh!¡±

    Chen Fan turned a deaf ear to the undying blood demon¡¯s threat. He executed the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture consecutively, crashing down and breaking the undying blood demon into thin leaves.

    Most would have perished under such a relentless assault, but the demon''s vitality was extraordinary.

    He continued to roar angrily as several streams of terrifying auras erupted, and a massive blood-colored hand descended from the sky.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Chen Fan shed out with his halberd, tearing through the sky, and destroying the bloody hand.

    ¡°Lowly worm, you can¡¯t even imagine the true might of us undying blood demons. But to be able to fight me this well, I have to admit you are indeed strong. But it¡¯s useless, I am undying!¡±

    Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly.

    The Undying Blood n truly deserved to be one of the nine royal ns of the hell demon race. Their im of being undying was indeed extraordinary.

    His attack struck the undying blood demon but barely caused any damage.

    ¡°Undying, huh?¡± A cold gleam shed across Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. A furnace appeared behind Chen Fan, hovering. A terrifying aura spread from it as if it could refine all things in heaven and earth, even the heavens themselves.

    ¡°Try this!¡±

    Chen Fan rushed toward the undying blood demon with the Heaven Seizing Furnace in tow.

    ¡°Kaka, what is this?¡±

    The undying blood demon felt a strong sense of crisis, something he had never experienced before.

    Even the Manifestation realm expert from the True Martial Academy could only heavily injure him, not kill.

    But now, facing the Heaven Seizing Furnace, he truly sensed the aura of death.

    This furnace could definitely refine him to death.

    ¡°Get lost!¡±

    Panic shed across the undying blood demon¡¯s face as he felt the furnace suppress his undying power. He unleashed his overwhelming aura and sted it toward the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    ¡°<i>Hmph, hmph</i>.¡± Chen Fan sneered coldly and broke through the undying blood demon¡¯s attack in a sh. Then, the Heaven Seizing Furnace rushed toward the demon.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The heaven-refining mes surged from the Heaven Seizing Furnace, turned into a fire dragon, and bit toward the undying blood demon.

    ¡°Ah!¡± shrieked the undying blood demon, mournfully.

    ¡°Undying Nine Transformations!¡±

    A blood-colored mist rose from the undying blood demon. He twisted nine times before a mysterious force suddenly erupted from him. Like an ancient giant worm, the demon burrowed into the void and disappeared. Any traces of the wormhole vanished in a sh.

    ¡°Hmm? That is an incredible art of the demon race.¡±

    Chen Fan did not expect this undying blood demon to have such a method up his sleeve. He spread out his tremendous spiritual power but couldn¡¯t locate where the demon had gone.

    <i>This undying blood demon is amazing!</i> Chen Fan couldn¡¯t help but praise inwardly, his eyes flickering.

    Even though he had firmly restrained the demon¡¯s power, it still managed to escape his grasp.

    ¡°No way, Chen Fan actually fended off that undying blood demon. My god, my eyes aren¡¯t ying tricks on me, are they? That¡¯s a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm undying blood demon!¡±

    ¡°I feel like I¡¯m about to suffocate.¡±

    ¡°What a monster. I wonder what kind of cultivation technique he¡¯s practicing. It''s so incredible, being able to restrain an undying blood demon.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd was incredibly shocked.

    Chen Fan ignored them. His figure distorted and vanished from sight.

    In the distance, the undying blood demonnded on an ocean with dark golden waves, spewing out a mouthful of fresh blood. Hisplexion was pale, holding a blood-colored sword in his hand.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    ¡°Damn it, damn it. What power does that lowly worm cultivate? How can he restrain my power of undying? Damn it, I suffered heavy injuries in just a few moments. Damn it!¡±

    The undying blood demon let out low, angry roars, his words containing a sense of fear.

    ¡°This lowly worm definitely cannot be left alive. He must be killed. He can choke off my powers, so I can¡¯t fight him alone. I need to find others to kill him together!¡±

    Indignation and murderous intent filled the undying blood demon''s face as he blurred and vanished from the ocean, heading off to who-knew-where in search of allies.

    Chen Fan appeared on top of a demonic mountain, holding a map. He had received this simple map from Yuan Tong earlier.

    ¡°It should be just ahead. I wonder how many hell ores there will be.¡±

    He tucked the map away and gazed toward a pitch-ck, extended demonic mountain ahead, his eyes flickering with a brilliant light.

    He had used up pretty much all his primeval stones. If he wanted to break through to the Heavenly Star realm, he would need a massive amount of resources.

    Thankfully, the energy contained in hell ores was of a much higher grade than that of primeval stones. Even a small quantity should suffice to help him advance.

    Despite having killed Qin Wang and the others, establishing himself as the top rookie inbat prowess, Chen Fan realized he still couldn''t reign supreme here. Some of the demons that slipped away from the academy¡¯s, like that undying blood demon, could threaten him.

    In the huge realm, he definitely wasn''t the only one to escape the academy¡¯s seal. There would be other powerful demons. He would be in danger if that undying blood demon went to look for helpers and came back to deal with him.

    Therefore, for Chen Fan, his top priority right now was to break through to the Heavenly Star realm.

    Then, no one could kill him, unless a genuine Manifestation realm expert took action.

    With a leap, Chen Fan crossed five thousand kilometers in an instant and swung his halberd, sting the ground. His true primeval cut the metal-like earth open, prating thousands of feet deep.

    <i>ng!</i>

    Immediately, Chen Fan saw heavy, pitch-ck crystals in the depths of the earth.

    This crystal was none other than hell ore.

    ¡°I found it, this is the ce!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes beamed with happiness.

 Chapter 724 - Breaking Through to Heavenly Star

    <h4>Chapter 724 - Breaking Through to Heavenly Star</h4>

    <i>ng!</i>

    Chen Fan sent out a streak of true primeval, cutting deep into the metal-like earth and creating a massive fissure that reached thousands of feet below. Heavy, pitch-ck ores surfaced from the depths.

    Chen Fan reached out and grabbed a fist-sized piece; it had many hideous faces and demonic silhouettes flickering across its surface.

    As soon as his skin made contact with it, the enormous demonic will within rushed into Chen Fan¡¯s sea of consciousness, wanting to turn him into a demon.

    This demonic will was so potent that it could invade even a Heavenly Star realm expert¡¯s mind, eventually transforming them into a demon.

    But Chen Fan remained unfazed. He summoned the Heaven Seizing Furnace in his palm, refining the demonic qi into sacred light, alternating between light and darkness.

    This piece of ore in his hand transformed into a translucent, sparkling stone, now radiating faint immortal qi and pulsing with pure, eternal power.

    ¡°So, this is a hell ore, an energy crystal on the same level as an immortal stone, huh? It is indeed peculiar. It holds a power I can¡¯t fully grasp, yet it fills me with both fear and awe,¡± Chen Fan murmured, gripping the ore tightly.

    The once demonic hell ore now emitted a vast and pure power that stirred a deep desire within him, far surpassing the allure of primeval stones.

    ¡°Very good. The energy contained in this one piece of hell ore surpasses that of countless primeval stones, and it¡¯s of a higher grade. No wonder Legendary realm peak experts crave these ores.¡±

    Chen Fan now knew that immortals existed above the Legendary realm. The tales of ascending into immortality weren¡¯t just myths¡ªthey were real.

    The power cultivated by immortals was naturally much more powerful than the power they cultivated. Legendary realm peak experts touched upon thews of heaven and earth and tried toprehend the power of thosews.

    Chen Fan guessed that the energy within hell ores was what these Legendary experts needed to master thews of the universe.

    ¡°Excellent. Just this one piece of hell ore is already making my true primeval stir restlessly. I¡¯ve hit the jackpot¡ªthis is likely a mini hell ore vein,¡± he said, smiling as he gazed at the vein in the ground.

    With a fierce stomp, Chen Fan shattered the metal-like earth beneath his feet, revealing an ore vein about ten meters long. The soil in the Hell Demon Realm was as hard as metal.

    If ordinary Core Formation realm experts stomped on it, the soil wouldn¡¯t even move. Their true primeval couldn¡¯t cut through it, and their divine weapons wouldn¡¯t make a dent.

    Even this dense ck soil was valuable, ideal for refining supreme demonic tools.

    But this kind of ground was no obstacle to Chen Fan. As his power of myriad elephants erupted, the earth tore apart instantly, causing the entire continent to shake.

    Chen Fan grabbed fiercely, capturing this miniature ore vein, which had nearly a thousand pieces of hell ore.

    With so many hell ores, Chen Fan had more than enough to advance into the Heavenly Star realm.

    ¡°Good, very good, it¡¯s time to break through to the Heavenly Star realm!¡± he dered, storing all the hell ore and preparing to absorb their energy immediately.

    He sat down cross-legged on the ground, then took out fifty pieces of hell ore and threw them into the Heaven Seizing Furnace. The zing heaven-refining mes immediately erupted, refining the demonic qi, demonic will, and extracting the boundless energy within.

    As the hell ore melted away, the boundless energy surged into Chen Fan. Chen Fan swelled up like a balloon as if he was about to explode.

    Although it was only fifty pieces of hell ore, it was equivalent to fifty immortal stones¡ªthe energy crystals used by immortals for cultivation. The energy contained within was immense, far surpassing that of a hundred million primeval stones.

    Chen Fan¡¯s expression changed slightly, realizing that he had underestimated the boundless energy contained in hell ores. He immediately began to channel the Heaven Seizing Art and refine the boundless energy inside him furiously.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation shot to the peak of the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm almost instantly and broke through the threshold of the half-step Heavenly Star realm at once.

    He had long sinceprehended the power of Martial Dao Will, and after killing those monstrous geniuses, he fed their wills to his Chaos Will. Consequently, his martial will had already reached the second level.

    As a result, breaking through to the Heavenly Star realm posed no challenge in terms of Martial Dao Will for Chen Fan. All he needed was enough true primeval to advance.

    Under the refining of the Heaven Seizing Art, the boundless energy circted wildly inside Chen Fan. The true primeval in his dantian was like the rising tide, surging explosively.

    His aura was like boiling water, boiling violently.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Soon, destructive fluctuations and tribtion clouds appeared in the dusky Little Demon Realm. Nebulous clouds and chain lightning struck down, trying to stop Chen Fan''s breakthrough and reduce him to ashes.

    These lightning bolts were powerful enough to annihte a second-level Heavenly Star realm expert. However, to Chen Fan, they were just a mild annoyance, unable to harm him.

    Chen Fan continued his breakthrough.

    One day passed, then ten.

    Half a month passed.

    By now, his aura had be terrifying, distorting the space within ten thousand meters. He was just one step away from the Heavenly Star realm.

    The energy from fifty pieces of hell ore was too vast. Even after half a month had passed, Chen Fan had only refined half of it.

    By now, Chen Fan¡¯s body had mostly returned to normal after being swollen with energy.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, it was as if a massive explosion went off within him. A terrifying aura erupted from his body, sweeping outward and shattering demonic mountains in its path.

    At this time, tribtion water surged out from the void, wanting to drown Chen Fan.

    That tribtion water was dark like ink. Wherever it surged to, the bright, purend was dyed pitch-ck.

    No one could stop the tribtion water. It even had an extremely corrosive nature.

    The sheer magnitude of Chen Fan¡¯s breakthrough spread its fluctuations across hundreds of thousands of kilometers.

    Many demons sensed the disturbance and rushed toward his location.

    However, as soon as they arrived, they were horrified by the sight of the surging tribtion water. Panic spread through the crowd, and they fled in terror.

    ¡°Jambudvipa Tribtion Water!¡±

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ¡°It¡¯s the Jambudvipa Tribtion Water. My god, why would this terrifying thing appear when this lowly worm is breaking through to the Heavenly Star realm?¡±

    Even demons already in the Heavenly Star realm were terrified. The sight of the ck tribtion water made their scalps tingle with fear, and they fled, shrieking in panic.

 Chapter 725 - Water, Fire, Earth, and Wind

    <h4>Chapter 725 - Water, Fire, Earth, and Wind</h4>

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Those devils, drawn by Chen Fan¡¯s tribtion, let out strange cries when they saw the Jambudvipa Water and fled in terror.

    The Jambudvipa Water drowned some of the slow ones. They let out miserable screams and instantly turned into dust.

    Even Manifestation realm experts would avoid the Jambudvipa Water as if it were a gue.

    Rumor spoke of their might when the world of the ancient gods ended. Jambudvipa Water gushed from the lowest position; ultimately, it reached the sky. Soon, it swallowed the entire universe, reaching the gods¡¯ paradise, and drowning them.

    The waves swallowed everything, even the light, shrouding the world in darkness.

    Only in the next epoch did the tribtion water recede and the world glowed with new vitality.

    The tribtion water would prate through space and time to reach the other side. Those undergoing the tribtion simply couldn¡¯t hide.

    Currently, Chen Fan was submerged in the Jambudvipa Water.

    However, the water couldn¡¯t dissolve his flesh, which emitted a golden luster. Soaked in the tribtion water, his flesh underwent a baptism.

    ¡°Heavens, that human¡¯s physique has already surpassed that of those old-timers in the n. Don¡¯t even think about fighting with brute force. How could such a monster appear among the lowly human race!¡±

    Far away, the demon experts who had escaped the academy¡¯s were shaking with fear. They simply couldn¡¯tprehend how a human was safe and sound inside the tribtion water.

    This kind of cmity was unheard of for a Heavenly Star realm tribtion, and no martial artist at that level should have been able to endure it.

    Yet, here was Chen Fan, defying all logic.

    His mind remained resolute as he furiously refined the vast energy within him.

    He had already opened the door to the Heavenly Star realm, and the Jambudvipa Water was only the beginning of his heavenly star tribtion.

    Endless mes flew out from the heavenly tribtion¡¯s space-time wormhole.

    This kind of me was bright red like blood. These mes were deep, blood-red, resembling the short-lived epiphyllum flowers. They floated atop the tribtion water, fire and waterbining in harmony. [1]

    Epiphyllum oxypetalum perished in a sh, but these mes were eternal.

    ¡°Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire!¡±

    The surrounding demons recoiled in terror at the sight of the blood-like mes. Trembling with fear, their eyes widened in horror.

    Both the Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire and the Jambudvipa Water were rare and ominous cmities, symbols of impending disaster.

    No one could fathom why such catastrophic forces had appeared during this human''s tribtion. Was Chen Fan too monstrous for the heavens to allow his survival?

    Suddenly, he stood up, stepping on the tribtion water, surrounded by the flickering bright red Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire as it entered his meridians, orifices, and even the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    ¡°Hoho, you demons came at the perfect timing. Turn into points for me, all of you!¡±

    While he was undergoing his tribtion, he did not weaken as one might expect. Instead, he grew fiercer, his aura bing more concentrated, and the quality of his true primeval advancing to a higher level.

    Chen Fan strode forth, heading toward these demons.

    ¡°Run quickly, that guy is crazier than us demons!¡±

    The demons, paralyzed with fear, watched in horror as Chen Fan, still immersed in his tribtion, dared tounch an attack.

    It wasn¡¯t just because of Chen Fan¡¯s terrifyingly powerful aura. They also didn¡¯t want toe into contact with the Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire or the Jambudvipa Water.

    Those phenomena didn¡¯t discriminate; the demons would be done for if even one of them touched their thick hide.

    Like a tiger out on the prowl, Chen Fan killed everything that came before him; consequently, his points immediately began to soar.

    Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted once again, this time with an even more chaotic aura of cmity.

    A heavy¡ªas heavy as a mountain¡ªyellow mist materialized. Wherever it surged, it pressed down with unimaginable force. Demons that came into contact with were crushed.

    ¡°Ahhh, a monster, a devil, who exactly is he?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s the ck Yellow Tribtion Earth! Run, quickly run!¡±

    These demons were in a frenzy, terrified of Chen Fan¡¯s heavenly star tribtion.

    The demons had initially nned to strike when Chen Fan was at his weakest, after his tribtion.

    However, after witnessing the horrifying forces of the Jambudvipa Tribtion Water, the Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire, and now the ck Yellow Tribtion Earth, they were consumed by panic.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A third-level Heavenly Star realm demon expert was shrouded by the ck Yellow Tribtion Earth, absorbing much of the yellow qi current into himself. He swelled, like a ck-yellow ball of blood.

    His voice, twisted with terror, echoed in thenguage of hell, ¡°ck Yellow Tribtion Earth, that¡¯s something that would only appear when someone is breaking through to the Legendary realm...¡±

    Wherever the tribtion earth reached, thendscape was drowned in its deadly embrace, leaving no trace of life behind.

    However, Chen Fan could not feel the power of the ck Yellow Tribtion Earth at all. He absorbed this tribtion earth wantonly, throwing it into the Heaven Seizing Furnace.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace was absorbing the power of all these cmities.

    Chen Fan sensed that the Heaven Seizing Furnace would undergo a metamorphosis by absorbing the power of these cmities and advance into a Heaven and Earth Furnace.

    As the ck Yellow Tribtion Earth swept across a five-thousand-kilometer radius, its killing power was unparalleled. Every demon caught in its path perished without a trace.

    Chen Fan¡¯s score had skyrocketed to a level equivalent to thebined scores of the top hundred participants.

    Countless experts around the Demon Realm tform watched the crystal scoreboard, where the names kept jumping and disappearing.

    ¡°Look, that¡¯s Chen Fan. My god, how did his points soar by this much suddenly? Did he go kill more geniuses?¡±

    Many people saw Chen Fan¡¯s score soaring.

    His ranking could not rise any higher, but his score was skyrocketing madly. It simply shocked the crowd so much that their eyes nearly popped out.

    ¡°A devil, I said. That little bastard Chen Fan is a great devil, the reincarnation of disaster. He¡¯se to bring cmity to our True Martial Academy. This devil must be killed!¡± Xiao Qianhe immediately roared angrily.

    No one echoed Xiao Qianhe¡¯s sentiments. The crowd¡¯s eyes were crystal clear.

    ¡°Wait... that''s not right. None of the names are disappearing. Could it be that Chen Fan is killing the demon experts like crazy?¡± someone muttered, disbelief creeping into their voice.

    Countless gusts of wind, centered around Chen Fan, began swirling violently.

    The winds intensified, forming wind spirits. Among them were eerie centas, each carrying ferocious unborn entities.

    ¡°Eternal Divine Wind! It¡¯s the Eternal Divine Wind!¡±

    Those madly fleeing demon experts¡¯plexions turned pale from fright, devoid of any color of blood when they saw the wind.

    Though the demon race was known for their brutal nature and insatiable bloodlust, none of them could contain their terror at this moment.

    Despite their disregard for life and death, none of them wanted to meet such a horrendous fate at the hands of the Eternal Divine Wind.

    1. Epiphyllum oxypetalum is a species of cactus, also known as Queen of the Night, that only blooms once a year at night and its flower wilts before dawn. ?

 Chapter 726 - Advance into Heavenly Star

    <h4>Chapter 726 - Advance into Heavenly Star</h4>

    ¡°Eternal Divine Wind!¡±

    The wind startled the already terrified demons, making them flee even faster.

    ¡°What is the Eternal Divine Wind doing here? Is he advancing to the Legendary realm and ascending to immortality or what? These cmities don¡¯t appear even if someone enters the Manifestation realm.¡±

    ¡°This human must have done something to anger the heavens. Such terrifying punishments are here to thoroughly kill him and prevent future trouble."

    "Stop talking and run! These cmities can¡¯t harm him, but we are toast if they even touch us.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Demons shrieked and fled in panic, some using demonic secret arts to escape.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    The wind howled, growing fiercer. Air currents turned into storms, trapping all living beings. Movement became impossible, and space and time melted within it.

    The Eternal Divine Wind earned its name because it transformed everything into eternal wind, erasing all traces of existence.

    Chen Fan had refined fifty pieces of hell ore to advance to the Heavenly Star realm. Of the four major elements¡ªwater, fire, earth, and wind¡ªhe had already survived three great cmities: Jambudvipa Tribtion Water, Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire, and ck Yellow Tribtion Earth.

    The final cmity, Eternal Divine Wind, had finally appeared.

    Once he withstood it, he would advance into the Heavenly Star realm, reaching the pinnacle of power in one step.

    The Eternal Divine Wind blew into Chen Fan¡¯s body and began to brew.

    Soon after, the four elements¡ªwater, fire, earth, and wind¡ªgatheredpletely within him. A vast power descended, causing the energy inside him to boil and explode.

    ¡°My god, is he even human? This is no mortal¡ªthis is an immortal! All four terrifying cmities have appeared. Isn¡¯t he undergoing the tribtion to ascend into immortality?¡±

    From afar, some geniuses of the True Martial Academy saw the scene and were stunned.

    They were top contenders of their generation, yet none of them had faced such cmities when advancing to the Heavenly Star realm.

    Even the most talented of them all only faced the Jambudvipa Tribtion Water.

    Their heavenly star tribtion couldn¡¯t even bepared to Chen Fan¡¯s.

    If any of them had to endure what Chen Fan was going through, they would have turned to ash in the tribtion.

    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder Peerless Peak took an interest in him. I¡¯m guessing he¡¯s an immortal¡¯s reincarnate. There¡¯s no other exnation for all this.¡±

    ¡°Exactly. That would exin his terrifying strength and the level of this tribtion.¡±

    ¡°Say, he was already very terrifying when he was a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert. How powerful would he be once he advances into the Heavenly Star realm?¡±

    ¡°Who knows?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Many geniuses and prides of heaven watched from afar, too afraid to approach, knowing the Eternal Divine Wind would annihte their divine nascent if they got too close.

    <i>Crackle!</i>

    Inside Chen Fan¡¯s body, it was as if a frozen river had begun to thaw.

    The divine wind grew fiercer, even tearing through the space of the Little Demon Realm.

    The demons scattered like headless flies, but wherever they ran, the Eternal Divine Wind blew them back.

    ¡°Demons, your doom hase. Be the stepping stones for me to achieve the Heavenly Star realm!¡±

    Chen Fan walked out of the Eternal Divine Wind, leading the divine wind. Anything touched by the wind crumbled.

    <i>C!</i>

    The Flood Dragon Fist Scripture sted out, copsing a vast space. Countless demons perished, their screams echoing miserably.

    The demons disintegrated, crumbling inch by inch in the divine wind, powerless against its force.

    <i>Buzz, buzz.</i>

    The power inside Chen Fan grew increasingly stronger and more terrifying. The Eternal Divine Wind became even fiercer.

    He channeled the Heaven Seizing Furnace, devouring the wind¡¯s power. Finally, he sat cross-legged, immersing himself in the true essence of the four elements as he advanced into the Heavenly Star realm.

    Just as he wasprehending the four major elements of the universe¡¯s origin in the Eternal Divine Wind, there was a huge disturbance in the outside world.

    His score surged dramatically as the demons died, skyrocketing like a rocket to a whole new level. He had be a legend, cementing his ce in history.

    No rookie had ever obtained such a high score since the establishment of the True Martial Academy.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Smoke billowed around the Demon Realm tform as the massive crystal scoreboard trembled. Ripples spread around it, and blinding light filled the air.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Chen Fan¡¯s name became so big that it could be seen clearly from hundreds of kilometers away. His score skyrocketed, leaving everyone far behind, especially the second ce.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? What exactly is happening? No one else had perished, so why is Chen Fan¡¯s score soaring like this? Isn¡¯t it rising too quickly? He¡¯s not cheating, is he?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s impossible for him to be cheating. The rookie Demon Hunting Competition has been going on for far too long for anyone to cheat. The only exnation is that Chen Fan killed a terrifying demon and has obtained a massive amount of points.¡±

    ¡°What terrifying demon? Could it be a Manifestation realm demon? He¡¯s a martial artist who hadn¡¯t even reached the Heavenly Star realm. How could he have aplished something like that?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    People near the tform started arguing in confusion.

    On the Peerless Peak¡¯s side, Jian Qi was dumbfounded.

    ¡°Junior Brother, what a god of a man he is!¡±

    ¡°I know, right? It¡¯s one thing to have killed the six peerless prides of heaven before, but why is his score rising even faster now? I-it¡¯s unimaginable! What kind of earth-shattering feat did he pull off i-in there?¡± Yan Weiyi stammered, barely able to speak.

    ¡°Chen Fan is creating history.¡± Duanmu Lingxing looked at the crystal scoreboard and said to Di Chen, ¡°Second Senior Brother, have you gotten in touch with First Senior Brother? Thepetition is about to end. I¡¯m afraid several peaks will make a move on Chen Fan, perhaps even Legendary realm experts will take action.¡±

    Di Chen¡¯s eyes were bright as snow as he said, ¡°I¡¯ve already sent a message to First Senior Brother, but I haven¡¯t gotten a reply. Let¡¯s not get anxious and silently observe for now.¡±

    This year¡¯s Demon Hunting Competition waspletely upended by Chen Fan.

    While the crowd outside argued fiercely, Chen Fan''s advancement had reached its final stage.

    ¡°The profound doctrine of the Martial Dao. Breaking allws of nature with one¡¯s fist, suppressing thends with strength, unfettered across the world. Outside the five elements, I alone reign supreme!¡±

    Chen Fan stood in the Eternal Divine Wind, his steps shaking the ages.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    With him as the center, the Eternal Divine Wind that spanned five thousand kilometers grew more and more ferocious.

    Wind dragons emerged from the storm, unleashing destructive gusts aimed at obliterating everything that defied heaven¡¯s might.

    A deluge of devils and void heavenly demons manifested like a storm of heavenly flowers, all rushing toward Chen Fan, intent on destroying him.

 Chapter 727 - Demon Race Experts

    <h4>Chapter 727 - Demon Race Experts</h4>

    An undying blood demon moved swiftly through the depths of the Little Demon Realm, arriving at a canyon.

    Before it could approach, though, a terrifying aura erupted from the canyon.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A towering demonic silhouette, asrge as a mountain, appeared, standing between heaven and earth imposingly.

    A voice boomed from the demonic figure, echoing in all directions, ¡°Xue Ming, why have youe here?¡±

    The demon, covered in a pitch-ck shell, had the head of a goat and the body of a man; aptly, his dwelling was called Yang Shan Canyon. [1]

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    He wielded a massive hammer, emitting the powerful aura of a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm expert. His force field distorted the surrounding space.

    ¡°Yang Shan, you know that the True Martial Academy¡¯s ancestors confined us in this tiny realm, which is just a fragment of the Demon Realm Continent, right? And how they treat our new world just as some hunting ground for their talents, right?

    ¡°So, what I am trying to say is that half a year ago, some academy experts sealed our powerhouses to hold the Demon Hunting Competition for their rookies. We, the mighty demons, are their prey.¡±

    Yang Shan looked at Xue Ming. He shook the huge hammer in his hands and said, ¡°Will you get to the point? I know all this. Why are you here?¡±

    ¡°Ah, I like how straightforward you are.¡± Xue Ming smiled and said, ¡°I am here to ask for your help. We should join hands and show those genius rookies who really are the prey here.¡±

    ¡°Oh, is that it?¡± With a mocking smile on his face, Yang Shan said, ¡°Xue Ming, we both know the strength of these rookies. They are at best second or third-level Heavenly Star realm brats. So, for a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm demon like you to ask me for help... You must think I really am a stupid goat.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡± Xue Ming shook his head and said with a straight face, ¡°About half a month ago, I sensed intense energy fluctuations in space and went to investigate. And let me tell you, while those humans call us monsters, I saw a real monster among those rookies.

    ¡°That guy, he was only at the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm, but his physique is ridiculous. Imagine this, hundreds of geniuses from the True Martial Academy are attacking one martial artist, but that one martial artist stilles out on top¡ªeffortlessly!

    ¡°His guard was down after the fight, so Iunched a sneak attack. Unfortunately, he practiced Satan-knows-what cultivation technique. It can form a furnace with the ability to suppress my power of undying. He injured me heavily, so I had to escape using Underworld Worm Transformation. Even then, I needed half a month to recover, only speeding it up by killing and draining the blood of True Martial disciples.¡±

    Xue Ming¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°This person is a serious threat to the Little Demon Realm. If we don¡¯t kill him now, when he matures, he¡¯ll be a cmity for us all.¡±

    ¡°Xue Ming, while I do have a goat¡¯s head, I am pretty smart. You want me to believe such crap?¡± Yang Shan''s expression was one of disbelief. ¡°Defeated by a ninth-level Divine Nascent realm brat? You? How is that possible?¡±

    Xue Ming¡¯s expression became very ugly as he said coldly, ¡°I wasn¡¯t defeated! It¡¯s just that his cultivation technique can restrain my power of undying. Otherwise, I would have sucked him dry long ago!¡±

    ¡°Haha, Xue Ming, do you also use such weak excuses to keep yourself warm at night? Nothing can change the fact that a brat injured you, forcing you to use one of the techniques from the Undying Nine Transformations to run away. No wonder your aura feels weaker,¡± Yang Shan said with augh.

    Xue Ming¡¯s expression became even uglier. He said coldly, ¡°I don¡¯t need you trash talk. I came here to ask for your help. Will you help me kill him?¡±

    ¡°To defeat someone like you... I really am eager to meet him. His flesh must taste extraordinary,¡± Yang Shan sneered, his eyes gleaming with malice.

    ¡°Excellent. Let¡¯s go,¡± Xue Ming said. ¡°But to be cautious, I want to gather a few more allies.¡±

    ¡°Oh? Who else? We weren¡¯t sealed like the others because the True Martial Academy wants to use us to hone their rookies,¡± Yang Shan remarked as his figure shrank to match Xue Ming¡¯s size.

    ¡°There¡¯s still Xiang Wanxu, Shi Zhonglou, Sha Tunhai and the others. With all of us working together, that brat is dead for sure¡ªthere¡¯s no escape for him,¡± Xue Ming replied. [2]

    Yang Shan replied, ¡°Oh, those guys? But isn¡¯t this overkill? He¡¯s just a worm in the ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. We should be able to handle him ourselves.¡±

    ¡°I just want to be absolutely sure. That person cannot leave the Little Demon Realm alive,¡± Xue Ming said grimly.

    Without further dy, Xue Ming and Yang Shan traversed great distances, eventually gathering the powerful demons¡ªXiang Wanxu, Shi Zhonglou, Sha Tunhai, and others.

    Meanwhile, Chen Fan was about to take that crucial step to advance into the Heavenly Star realm. The Eternal Divine Wind surrounding him was raging, obliterating everything within fifty thousand kilometers. Anyone could feel the destructive fluctuations in the air.

    Heavenly Star realm experts were incredibly attuned to tribtions, especially powerful demons like Xue Ming and the others at the fifth or sixth-level Heavenly Star realm. They could analyze the subtle fluctuations in heaven and earth to identify who was undergoing their tribtion and even deduce details about their cultivation technique.

    Chen Fan¡¯s tribtions were too ferocious. Even someone in the Heavenly Star realm trying to break through to the Manifestation realm would not reach his level. His tribtion felt akin to a Manifestation realm expert trying to break through to the Legendary realm¡ªor possibly even the immortal ascension tribtion itself.

    Such an overwhelming tribtion couldn¡¯t be hidden.

    At a location several tens of thousands of kilometers away from Chen Fan, Xue Ming and about ten other powerful demons¡¯ expressions changed.

    ¡°What an intense tribtion!¡±

    This group, led by Xue Ming, Yang Shan, Xiang Wanxu, and other fifth and sixth-level Heavenly Star experts, was a formidable lineup.

    The remaining demons were all at the third or fourth-level Heavenly Star realm, making them powerful enough to sweep across the entire Little Demon Realm.

    A shocking blood-colored light suddenly shot out of Xue Ming¡¯s eyes, and he said, ¡°Everyone, bad news. Only a peerless monster would experience such a tribtion. That human, Chen Fan, is exactly such a figure. I recognize the fluctuations in the space¡ªit¡¯s the cultivation technique he uses. He¡¯s breaking through to the Heavenly Star realm as we speak!¡±

    ¡°Xue Ming, it seems like you really didn¡¯t lie to us. I sensed the Eternal Divine Wind blowing in this tribtion. This is definitely a tribtion that only peerless monsters would bring about. This Chen Fan guy is definitely a huge threat. We must end him while he¡¯s still weak,¡± said a youth with a gloomy face, wearing shark skin armor.

    This young man had his hands behind his back, and a boundless sea manifested at his back. However, this sea waspletely pitch-ck¡ªit was a demonic sea.

    In the depths of this demonic sea, a group of sharks could be seen fighting for supremacy.

    This demon¡¯s cultivation was even higher than Xue Ming¡¯s¡ªsixth-level Heavenly Star realm. His name was Sha Tunhai.

    1. Yang Shan means goat mountain, but that¡¯s his name. ?

    2. Their ¡®surnames¡¯ gives us a hint of what kind of demons they are. Xiang means elephant, Shi means lion, and Sha means shark. ?

 Chapter 728 - Demons Strike

    <h4>Chapter 728 - Demons Strike</h4>

    ¡°Sha Tunhai has a point. We must kill such an exceptional figure now while we still can. Once he matures, he will be a disaster for our noble demon race!¡± said another young burly man, staring into the distant void. He let out a snort, and it carried such force that the surrounding air shattered instantly, the earth splintered, and even the sky showed faint cracks.

    This tall, burly youth was none other than Xiang Wanxu.

    ¡°From the cmities, I can sense the power of water, fire, earth, and wind¡ªthe four primordial elements. These aren¡¯t ordinary tribtions. No, they¡¯re far more dangerous. If what I sense is correct, this Chen Fan is exactly as Xue Ming described, an extraordinary figure to draw upon such terrifying forces when merely breaking through to the Heavenly Star realm. If we were in his position, we¡¯d have already perished. He must die. We cannot allow someone like him to live.¡±

    The speaker was a youth with golden hair and a lion¡¯s head. His cultivation level was the same as Sha Tunhai, at the sixth-level Heavenly Star realm.

    His radiant mane resembled the zing sun,manding attention wherever he stood.

    His name was Shi Zhonglou, a demon known for his fiery temper and unmatched physical might.

    Although Xue Ming¡¯s cultivation level wasn¡¯t the strongest here, his status was the highest, since he was from the Undying Blood n.

    ¡°Then can we act immediately? Everyone, hear my orders. Get into the Demons Paradise Grand Formation. Each of you offer up your favored treasures, detonate them, and open a passageway. We¡¯ll carve open a path, force back the Eternal Divine Wind, and tear a wormhole directly to Chen Fan¡¯s side. There, we finish him.¡±

    The demon race had always valued hierarchy. Even Sha Tunhai and Shi Zhonglou, both sixth-level Heavenly Star realm demons, unquestioningly followed Xue Ming¡¯s orders.

    ¡°Yes!¡± shouted the other demons behind them immediately.

    These demon experts came together at once, offering up their own treasures and detonating them in the air. Xue Ming then threw a punch, summoning an ancient Underworld Worm.

    The demons¡¯ will and blood essence merged into a surging river, forcing the Eternal Divine Wind aside. A space-time wormhole opened, connecting directly to Chen Fan, who was seated in the eye of the divine wind, undergoing the final step of his metamorphosis.

    As soon as the passageway opened, Xue Ming smiled savagely and rushed within.

    ¡°Kill!¡±

    More than ten demon experts at the third-level Heavenly Star realm and above had gathered. The power they unleashed by detonating their treasures was immense.

    Chen Fan had absorbed much of the Eternal Divine Wind. The Heaven Seizing Furnace¡¯s aura became increasingly vast, as though a universe was burning inside it.

    His heavenly star tribtion had thinned and was fading, which allowed Xue Ming and the others to break through the Eternal Divine Wind.

    Xue Ming was the first to rush in front of Chen Fan, his bloodline stirring restlessly, absorbing the surrounding demonic qi.

    ¡°Lowly worm, your doom has arrived. Today will be the day you die, while you¡¯re weak! Blood Sword!¡±

    Xue Ming thrust the Blood Sword toward the seated Chen Fan.

    Yang Shan, Sha Tunhai, and the others simultaneouslyunched their strongest attacks on Chen Fan.

    One great killing move after another was unleashed. Heaven and earth filled with chaotic light, and terrifying forces erupted all at once.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Suddenly, Chen Fan opened his eyes. His aura erupted at once, storming out like a flood.

    ¡°<i>Roar</i>!¡± roared Chen Fan to the sky, and the sound waves were like the tide.

    Finally, he had advanced into the Heavenly Star realm.

    However, it was also the moment of greatest danger. Xue Ming and the others¡¯ terrifying attacks were before him.

    Though only a dozen demons, they were all experts, and theirbined assault was far more devastating than Qin Wang and the hundred cultivators Chen Fan had faced before.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The cosmic explosion that followed shook thend. Xue Ming and the others¡¯ attacks struck Chen Fan directly, causing a violent shockwave that seemed to tear the sky apart.

    The storm forced them all backward.

    ¡°Is he dead?¡±

    Xue Ming and the others stared fixedly at the storm, unsure of Chen Fan¡¯s fate after enduring such a brutal onught.

    <i>Swoosh!</i>

    Suddenly, a golden figure rushed out from the storm. It was none other than Chen Fan.

    However, his clothing was in tatters, and blood seeped out from the corner of his mouth.

    Despite breaking through to the Heavenly Star realm, Chen Fan¡¯s organs had taken a beating from thebined bombardment. His qi and blood churned wildly, struggling to settle.

    ¡°Heavens, he¡¯s still not dead!¡±

    Shi Zhonglou¡¯s blond hair swayed like a wave of wheat. His aura became very berserk, and his golden demonic eyes revealed a look of disbelief.

    ¡°This guy... No wonder Xue Ming was nearly killed by him and had to escape. You were right to bring so many of us here.¡±

    Hearing Shi Zhonglou mention the past¡ªespecially his most humiliating moment¡ªXue Ming¡¯s expression darkened. He snorted coldly, ¡°Did you think I would lie to you people? <i>Hmph</i>, even you wouldn¡¯t fare any better if you fought him one-on-one.¡±

    Sha Tunhai ground his saw-like sharp teeth, a bloodthirsty look flickering in his eyes. ¡°Alright, we are not here to mock you. This man definitely mustn¡¯t be kept alive. We must kill him at all costs to remove this future threat!¡±

    Chen Fan suppressed the qi and blood tumbling inside him, his gaze falling on Xue Ming and the other demons, filled with iciness. He said coldly, ¡°You sinful demons... Instead of hiding and clinging to your miserable lives, you dare ambush me? It seems you¡¯re tired of living. Fine, since you sent yourselves to my doorstep, I¡¯ll send you all to hell.¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, lowly worm, such an arrogant mouth you have. We¡¯ll give you a choice: betray the human race, absorb demonic qi, and be a demon servant. Serve the noble demon race, and you might live. Otherwise, this is where you¡¯ll die. We¡¯ve killed plenty of human geniuses like you. Don¡¯t make the wrong choice.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± another demon added. ¡°Kneel, swear allegiance to the demon god, and let us nt a demonic fetus inside you.¡±

    ¡°A bunch of empty vassals like you dares to bark in front of me? <i>Hmph</i>, I¡¯ll let you know today what is called a ughter!¡±

    A terrifying aura erupted from Chen Fan, shocking heaven and earth, and shaking the stars. This aura was no weaker than Xue Ming¡¯s.

    Xiang Wanxu said with a cold smile, ¡°Well, well, well. A lowly worm like you still dares to be stubborn. Pity, what a pity. A genius is about to meet a tragic end just like that. We just love to torture and kill the geniuses of the True Martial Academy!¡±

 Chapter 729 - Second-Level Heavenly Star

    <h4>Chapter 729 - Second-Level Heavenly Star</h4>

    Shi Zhonglou¡¯s blond hair fluttered, reflecting blinding golden light.

    He pointed at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Brat, I advise you not to stubbornly resist. Surrounded by so many experts, you can¡¯t escape alive. Submit to our noble demon race now and be a demon servant if you want to live. Otherwise, you won¡¯t even make it to hell!¡±

    Xue Ming and the other demons closed in, their auras erupting and sealing the void, cutting off Chen Fan¡¯s escape.

    They knew of his terrifying strength from Xue Ming, and now that he had advanced to the Heavenly Star realm and survived such deadly trials, they dared not underestimate him.

    ¡°Demon race...¡± Chen Fan showed no panic despite their encirclement. He said slowly, ¡°You must know what¡¯s happening in the Little Demon Realm. This is the rookies¡¯ Demon Hunting Competition. I was just wondering where to find demons who escaped the academy¡¯s, and now you¡¯vee straight to my doorstep. Very good.¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan attacked. In a sh, he appeared in front of Shi Zhonglou and threw a punch.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    The punch seemed to copse the pirs of heaven, shattering space itself. The skies crumbled, and the world seemed to fall apart.

    When that force fell on Shi Zhonglou, despite his sixth-level Heavenly Star realm cultivation, his spine bent with cracking noises; he couldn¡¯t even lift his head.

    ¡°Not good!¡±

    Shi Zhonglou felt the wind from Chen Fan¡¯s punch; it was like a mountain. His fist¡¯s intent was like the heavens, his punch heavy as the thick earth. The demonic primeval around him showed signs of crumbling. [1]

    He roared, ¡°Mad Lion¡¯s Raging Fist!¡±

    Clenching his fists, golden light pierced through the void, and the silhouette of a majestic lion appeared behind Shi Zhonglou, its roar shaking the heavens.

    His punch carried a divine fury, a rage so intense it spread to those around him, inciting their own anger. The impact of his punch echoed like the roars of lions, threatening to split heaven and earth as if it could create a world of its own.

    However, Chen Fan¡¯s punch was even fiercer!

    Having ovee his heavenly star tribtion, his fist art now carried the weight of heaven''s thick earth, forged in the ck Yellow Tribtion.

    When Chen Fan struck, the power of heaven and earth surged toward him, vast and boundless. The sheer force of his blow shattered the sky itself.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    It was vast and boundless.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Shi Zhonglou¡¯s golden light extinguished inch by inch as Chen Fan¡¯s power surged. He staggered back, his palm splitting open, golden blood streaming from the wound. He stared in disbelief, injured by Chen Fan''s overwhelming might.

    ¡°Do it, ughter this bastard together!¡±

    Xue Ming and the other demon experts didn¡¯t expect Chen Fan would suddenlyunch an attack on Shi Zhonglou, and even knock him back, injuring him. The shock brought them back to their senses, and they rushed toward Chen Fan with a roar.

    The demons surrounded Chen Fan. Demonic qi surged from them. Their demonic qi surged as dark primeval energy radiated from them. A storm of ck demonic light bombarded Chen Fan, annihting everything in its path.

    Golden light surged violently from Chen Fan, channeling his strength and qi to the limit. His terrifying powers erupted with no reservation.

    Chen Fan''s fists danced as his Flood Dragon Fist Scripture unleashed several golden flood dragons, shattering Xue Ming and the others¡¯ attacks. He moved through space, faster than lightning.

    ¡°Ah!¡±

    A miserable cry rang out. Chen Fan killed a horse-headed demon with a single finger, his terrifying power piercing deep into the demon¡¯s soul and extinguishing all vitality.

    Shi Zhonglou roared, ¡°Lion n Absolute Killing, Heavenly Lion¡¯s Roar of Fury!¡±

    <i>Roar!</i>

    A deafening wave of sonic force burst from his mouth. The lion n¡¯s roars, their ultimate weapon, could make all beasts submit.

    ¡°Heavenly Law Earthly Elephant!¡±

    Xiang Wanxu pushed his bloodline power to the limit. He grew tall and imposing, exuding a fierce aura.

    A colossal pitch-ck divine elephant, towering a hundred thousand feet, appeared behind him. It raised its leg, capable of crushing the heavens, and stomped down, shattering the space around Chen Fan.

    ¡°Sharks on the Hunt!¡±

    Several bloodthirsty ancient demon sharks appeared in the demonic sea behind Sha Tunhai, biting at Chen Fan. Their sharp, saw-like teeth crushed the space.

    The demon expertsunched their unique n arts simultaneously.

    Realizing Chen Fan was injuring and overpowering Shi Zhonglou, they attacked with full force, determined to kill him before he could regain control.

    ¡°Strength, burst forth!¡±

    Suddenly, Chen Fan¡¯s aura erupted. His power surged as rumbling noises, like a raging furnace, echoed from within him. His strength exploded, soaring to new heights.

    Shi Zhonglou immediately realized the danger.

    ¡°Not good, he¡¯s trying to break through to the second-level Heavenly Star realm. We cannot let him seed. He is already so strong; if his cultivation increases by another level, none of us will stand a chance!¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no way he¡¯ll seed. Facing all of our ultimate killing moves, he will be sted to pieces and be left without a burial ce!¡± Sha Tunhai said coldly.

    ¡°He¡¯s still too weak to withstand our attacks. That¡¯s why he¡¯s forcing a breakthrough, but it¡¯s hopeless.¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Nine demon experts gathered andunched a powerful strike that destroyed the ages.

    Even Chen Fan, powerful as he was, spat blood repeatedly under their onught.

    There was still a lot of energy inside him that he hadn¡¯t refined. The energy of fifty pieces of hell ore was too abundant.

    Breaking through to the Heavenly Star realm used up less than two-thirds of it. He still had a significant amount of energy inside his body.

    Chen Fan had intended to refine it gradually, but the situation left him no choice. Shi Zhonglou and the others besieged him relentlessly, and while his Hegemonic Golden Body was immensely powerful, it wasn¡¯t enough to turn the tide. He needed to boost his strength.

    <i>Boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan raised his defense, forming a golden bell cocoon. Then, he refined the energy inside him crazily, causing his aura to be more and more powerful.

    <i>Crack, crack...</i>

    The sound of his golden bell cocoon breaking apart rang out, and a great destructive force reached Chen Fan.

    Xue Ming and the others were overjoyed when they saw the defense cocoon breaking. They roared furiously, ¡°We broke through his defense. Don¡¯t let up, kill him!¡±

    <i>Buzz!</i>

    Just as their attacks were approaching him, a divine sound shook.

    ¡°It¡¯s toote, your doomes next!¡±

    Standing at the center, his aura surged to an unstoppable peak, rolling with violent intensity. The true primeval energy inside him roared like the Yangtze River.

    He broke through¡ªreaching the second-level Heavenly Star realm!

    1. Demonic primeval is the demons¡¯ version of true primeval. ?

 Chapter 730 - Doom Descends

    <h4>Chapter 730 - Doom Descends</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Boundless power erupted from Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hurry, hurry, give it everything you have and kill him!¡± Xue Ming roared, his aura burning. He executed the Undying Nine Transformations¡¯ Blood God Transformation. A blood god silhouette appeared behind him, sending a mighty palm strike toward Chen Fan.

    Shi Zhonglou and the others¡¯ faces twisted in shock, as they hadn¡¯t expected him to seed in advancing to the second level. It was disastrous for them.

    They immediately released their auras as they unleashed terrifying demonic lights and treasures, bombarding Chen Fan like a relentless storm.

    Chen Fan opened his mouth and inhaled fiercely.

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo...</i>

    Xue Ming and the others¡¯ attacks were sucked into him, shaking heaven and earth. The realms trembled, and the Little Demon Realm churned violently.

    ¡°What?¡±

    Their eyes nearly bulged out in disbelief. Chen Fan had swallowed their attacks¡ªa sight too terrifying toprehend.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Vicious looks appeared on their faces. They hurriedly channeled their cultivation to detonate their attacks. However, their expressions changed suddenly; their attempts were useless.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Chen Fan rumbled as if a ferocious beast was awakening, the sound akin to the roar of an engine.

    <i>Ah!</i>

    Shi Zhonglou saw arge hand reaching out from Chen Fan, transforming. It was like a flood dragon¡¯s sharp ws, swiping through space-time. It was the most tyrannical palm in heaven and earth.

    It seemed to seize Shi Zhonglou¡¯s very fate.

    A resplendent golden light bathed Chen Fan, making him appear like a golden ancient god. The palm grabbed Shi Zhonglou¡¯s burly figure, and an indifferent voice rang out.

    ¡°Doom descends!¡±

    Immediately, Shi Zhonglou was crushed and exploded in Chen Fan¡¯s grasp. His flesh and blood twitched, attempting to regenerate.

    ¡°It¡¯s useless,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently. The Heaven Seizing Furnace loomed over the sky and swallowed Shi Zhonglou.

    The furnace¡¯s terrifying refining power put a rest to his miserable screams in mere moments. Shi Zhonglou was entirely erased from existence.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace, now nearly at the level of a half-Heaven and Earth Furnace, possessed immense refining power¡ªcapable of obliterating even thews of heaven and earth.

    ¡°He¡¯s dead, Shi Zhonglou is dead!¡±

    Xue Ming and the others¡¯ expressions changed drastically, their faces filled with terror.

    Shi Zhonglou and Sha Tunhai were the strongest among them, so his death rattled them to the core.

    Chen Fan remained expressionless.

    Having broken through to the second-level Heavenly Star realm, his strength had reached an entirely new tier. Despite Shi Zhonglou being at the sixth level, he was no match for Chen Fan.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Chen Fan executed the Flood Dragon Fist Scripture once more, destroying an entire area. Everything in its path dissolved into primal chaos. The space copsed, the air vaporized, and a fourth-level Heavenly Star realm demon was blown into pieces.

    ¡°Lowly worm, go to hell!¡± Yang Shan roared furiously and punched. Layer afteryer of demonic qi swept out, condensing into ck lotuses in the void and descending. Each ck lotus contained terrifying force.

    ¡°Haha, mere petty tricks. Annihte!¡±

    Chen Fan sped his hand without even looking, sending out a Northern Star Reaper Hand, destroying everything. Those ck lotuses vanished without a trace before they could even explode.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Yang Shan let out a miserable cry as most of his body was blown apart. Blood sprayed wildly, and he was thrown back repeatedly, his face contorted in terror.

    Escape was impossible for him.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A Heaven Piercing Spear shot out, nailing his divine nascent firmly. With a rumble, he was nailed to a demonic mountain, and his divine nascent dissipatedpletely.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure flickered. Every time he disappeared and reappeared, a demon would perish. The air filled with the stench of blood and desperate cries. None of the demons could escape death.

    Chen Fan moved like a god of the underworld, a reaper of lives who wieldedplete control over death.

    ¡°Run!¡± Sha Tunhai shouted and sped off into the sky.

    They were all terrified, knowing they were no match for the current Chen Fan. Heavenly Star realm demons fell one after another, powerless to resist.

    Xue Ming and Xiang Wanxu fled in opposite directions, praying that Chen Fan would note after them.

    ¡°Run? You think you can escape?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, unleashing a double strike.

    Two savage golden flood dragons burst forth like the hands of heaven, crashing down on Sha Tunhai and Xiang Wanxu.

    ¡°And you, bastard of the Undying Blood n. You got away by chance thest time, but you won¡¯t be so lucky today!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s figure blurred, appearing behind Xue Ming.

    The shock was so great Xue Ming¡¯s soul nearly left its body for better opportunities ahead. He quickly turned around and stabbed at Chen Fan with his sword.

    <i>Tap!</i>

    Chen Fan caught this Blood Sword, crushing it with raw strength. The sword let out a mournful cry as it shattered inch by inch.

    Scared out of his wits, Xue Ming decided to execute the Undying Nine Transformations once more to escape.

    ¡°Undying Nine...¡± he began, but fate wasn¡¯t on his side this time.

    The Heaven Seizing Furnace shrouded down fiercely, suppressing Xue Ming within the furnace. Its terrifying power erupted, and the sound of Xue Ming¡¯s miserable screams immediately rang out.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan took care of Sha Tunhai and Xiang Wanxu, their blood falling like rain.

    Two bright lights shed in the sky like fireworks signaling the end of their lives. In an instant, three powerful experts perished, annihted by Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    The dozen demon experts who hade to besiege Chen Fan were eradicated in a blink. All their belongings fell into his grasp.

    Chen Fan slowly absorbed the powers of these demons. Their Demonic Dao Will was refined into essences, making his Chaos Will even more powerful. Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation also became more stable.

    He sat down cross-legged, ceasing his killing spree for the moment. He needed time to digest and consolidate the overwhelming energy he had taken in.

    The essence and powers of the in demons, particrly Xue Ming, whose Demon God Bloodline came from one of the nine royal ns of the Hell Demon Realm, were incredibly valuable. Chen Fan needed to absorb and refine it properly to strengthen himself.

    Without needing to check the scoreboard, Chen Fan knew that no one coulde close to matching his aplishments. The Peerless Peak¡¯s ranking was beyond reach, solidifying their dominance.

    ¡°Is this for real? What did I see? Chen Fan killed ten powerful demon race experts, including fifth and sixth-level Heavenly Star realm existences?!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s already broken through to the Heavenly Star realm and reached the second level. This is too terrifying. A monster, an absolute monster.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really sad to live in the same era as him. We¡¯re destined to live under his shadow.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Silence followed as the distant figures of numerous True Martial Academy disciples watched in awe.

    They had witnessed Chen Fan effortlessly ying Xue Ming and the others, leaving them all stunned. Each of those demons had been strong enough to wreak havoc, yet in Chen Fan¡¯s hands, they had been reduced to mere trash, swiftly and ruthlessly destroyed.

    ¡°Forget it, we simply can¡¯tpare ourselves to him. Let¡¯s focus on killing demons while we still have half a month left and rack up as many points as possible."

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Those demons he killed must have been ones that slipped through the academy¡¯s. With them gone, at least our safety is more assured."

    Soon, these people left one after another.

 Chapter 731 - End

    <h4>Chapter 731 - End</h4>

    While Chen Fan was cultivating leisurely, the Demon Realm tform was on fire.

    ¡°Heavens, is Chen Fan just going around killing everything? What? Who did he kill now?¡±

    "There¡¯s been no sh between him and the other peerless geniuses. He must be targeting the demons."

    ¡°How many demon bastards did he have to kill for him to gain so many points in one go?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps he ughtered a Manifestation realm demon...¡±

    ¡°Do you believe that?¡±

    ¡°Maybe a heavily injured Manifestation realm...?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Chen Fan¡¯s score rose continuously, the crowd felt fatigued in their hearts. His sudden score jumps had be routine. Each time, it felt like his points exploded, rising as if riding a rocket.

    In the beginning, everyone had been shocked, but now their reactions dulled¡ªthey were numb to the spectacle.

    No one knew exactly what Chen Fan had done inside the Little Demon Realm, but they all agreed it had to be extraordinary.

    His shadow loomed over the entirepetition, leaving the others behind him almost forgotten. The second ce? Who even cared anymore?

    Chen Fan had created history in the Demon Hunting Competition, bing the most dazzling existence.

    Time passed swiftly as Chen Fan solidified his cultivation.

    One day, a rumbling noise resounded throughout the Little Demon Realm, jolting Chen Fan back to his senses from his cultivation.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Before he could react to the situation, he shook as an enormous suction pulled him out of the Little Demon Realm.

    The shock made him move a bit but he didn¡¯t struggle for long, realizing that the Demon Hunting Competition hade to an end. This force was guiding them out of the Little Demon Realm back to the True Martial Academy.

    <i>Swish...</i>

    A divine light appeared above his head, turning into a heavy vortex and pulling him in. Simr vortexes could be seen across the entire Little Demon Realm.

    Relief could be seen on the faces of many of the participants as if a heavy burden had been lifted from their shoulders.

    The Demon Hunting Competition had finally ended. Death was amon oue in this test.

    Many died in this realm in thest six months, including those monstrous geniuses that other geniuses looked up to. Geniuses had fallen like raindrops.

    While some died at the hands of demons, many died at the hands of their fellow disciples.

    Although the True Martial Academy had sealed and confined ny-nine percent of the powerful demons, there were still quite a few first or second-level Heavenly Star realm demons around. It was simply a disaster for those who had not broken through to the Heavenly Star realm if they encountered these demons.

    The path of martial arts was easy. One could only walk on it by shedding blood and tears.

    It could only be said that those who died were eliminated, while those who survived would be more powerful and outstanding as a result.

    The world around Chen Fan went dark when the vortex swallowed him. Before he knew it, he found himself standing on a high flight of steps, just outside the Little Demon Realm.

    At the top of this flight of steps was the crystal scoreboard.

    His name was emzoned at the very top, dominating the rankings. The other names, crammed below his, appeared insignificant, like mere fireflies next to his zing sun.

    ¡°Time¡¯s up. The Demon Hunting Competition is over.¡±

    ¡°Look, Chen Fan hase out!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan broke the historical record. No one whoes after will be able to touch that terrifying score. He¡¯s without a doubt the academy¡¯s new number one.¡±

    ¡°I know, right? No one could have predicted that Qin Wang, First Dragon Lord, and the other geniuses would fall by his hand. You see his cultivation level? He¡¯s already in the second-level Heavenly Star realm, my goodness, that¡¯s too fast!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s there to be surprised about? Although the Little Demon Realm is fraught with dangers, it¡¯s a fragment of the Demon Realm Continent, loaded with opportunities. His rapid growth is only natural.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, just look at the other rookies. Their cultivations have all improved by leaps and bounds.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As Chen Fan stepped forward, countless pairs of eyes turned toward him. Monstrous waves were set off among the various halls as everyone witnessed the birth of this legend.

    A ninth-level Divine Nascent realm expert entered the Little Demon Realm and faced all kinds of dangers. He didn¡¯t give up in the face of adversity; instead, he kept advancing. Along the way, he slew numerous geniuses and rose to the top.

    It all sounded like an epic. It was a feat so monstrous that many found it hard to fathom.

    Could it be that just because he was from Peerless Peak, Chen Fan was really that monstrous?

    ¡°Haha, I didn¡¯t expect our All Seeking Peak to enter the top ten on the total scoreboard. Surprise, what a huge surprise!¡±

    ¡°Not just your All Seeking Peak, even weaker peaks like Sky Paramount Peak and Great Bamboo Peak made it into the top ten this time, surpassing some of the main peaks like Heavenly Bastion and Limitless Peak."

    "Exactly. Heavenly Bastion Peak and the other main peaks hit rock bottom this time due to their heavy casualties. It''s an embarrassing ''record'' for them."

    ¡°This is all thanks to Chen Fan. Without him, we wouldn''t have made history either."

    ¡°......¡±

    The chief disciples and elders of some weaker peaks were overjoyed and in high spirits, overjoyed at the thought of their peaks breaking into the top ten in the Demon Hunting Competition.

    This meant a greater share of the academy¡¯s resources, something that would significantly elevate their standing.

    Jian Qi¡¯s eyes lit up, revealing a joyful look on his face. ¡°Junior Brother hase out!¡±

    ¡°Haha, our little junior brother is no ordinary talent. He¡¯s already broken through to the second-level Heavenly Star realm. Seventh, you have to work hard. At this rate, he¡¯ll surpass you soon!¡± teased Yan Weiyi as he patted Jian Qi¡¯s shoulder.

    Duanmu Lingxing also smiled and said, ¡°Little Junior Brother has performed very well in the Little Demon Realm, exceeding our expectations. We thought he wouldn¡¯t even enter the top ten, but not only did he take first ce, but our Peerless Peak¡¯s overall score is also undisputedly number one! By a huge margin too¡ªfar beyond anything seen in previouspetitions."

    While Di Chen and the others were talking andughing among themselves, the Law Enforcement Hall and Heavenly Bastion Peak¡¯s people gnashed their teeth in hatred.

    Chen Fan had single-handedly ughtered many of the geniuses they had painstakingly nurtured, resulting in their dismal scores¡ªscores even lower than the weaker peaks¡¯.

    The humiliation was unbearable, and all of it was due to Chen Fan.

    Suddenly, Xiao Qianhe couldn¡¯t contain his fury any longer. His voice boomed across the tform, dripping with venom as he sought to frame Chen Fan from a moral high ground, ¡°Chen Fan, you little bastard, you devil¡¯s reincarnate, you must have been possessed by the evil, killing your fellow disciples in the Little Demon Realm. Today, our Law Enforcement Hall shall cut you down and restore our honor!"

 Chapter 732 - Legend Makes a Move

    <h4>Chapter 732 - Legend Makes a Move</h4>

    Xiao Qianhe struck before his voice faded, his massive hand¡ªlike the pir of the sky¡ªgrabbing at Chen Fan. The terrifying aura shook heaven and earth, shattering the void.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Chen Fan felt an iparably terrifying force pressing down on him at once, restraining him.

    Fifth or sixth-level Heavenly Star realm experts were no match for Chen Fan now, but Xiao Qianhe was at the peak of the Manifestation realm. He could kill Chen Fan with a flick of his finger.

    Di Chen¡¯s furious voice shook thends as he said, ¡°Xiao Qianhe, you¡¯re looking to die!¡±

    He unleashed a terrifying aura that covered heaven and earth, his fist sting toward Xiao Qianhe. If Xiao Qianhe didn¡¯t stop, he would have to face Di Chen¡¯s lethal blow.

    ¡°Such insolence, Di Chen! How dare you stop me from catching a demonic spy?! You¡¯re out of line!¡± Xiao Qianhe roared, his expression darkening.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Di Chen and Xiao Qianhe¡¯s attacks collided, producing an earth-shaking explosion. A terrifying storm swept out, surging violently. Theplexions of countless people changed.

    Xiao Qianhe and Di Chen pulled back at the same time.

    ¡°Hear my orders, Law Enforcement Hall disciples. Take down Chen Fan and kill him on the spot!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± The Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people immediately charged toward Chen Fan, surging with killing intent.

    ¡°Courting death!¡±

    Duanmu Lingxing, Yan Weiyi, and Jian Qi immediately unleashed their icy cold killing intent. They struck out immediately, not holding back at all, directly killing the aggressors.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Although the Peerless Peak¡¯s side was outnumbered, its members were freaks of nature, unrivaled at their level. The Law Enforcement Hall disciples were no match for them.

    ¡°Di Chen, your Peerless Peak dare act so boldly?! Killing our Law Enforcement Hall disciples in public¡ªdo you have no regard for the academy¡¯s rules?¡± Xiao Qianhe roared, his rage reaching the skies as his bloodshot eyes red. He unleashed a flurry of killing moves.

    Di Chen¡¯s expression was equally cold.

    Although his cultivation level was inferior to Xiao Qianhe¡¯s, the same wasn¡¯t true about hisbat strength. He easily countered Xiao Qianhe¡¯s attacks and, with each counterstrike, pushed him to the brink, making Xiao Qianhe break out in a cold sweat.

    Unrestrained, Di Chen disyed his full power as Peerless Peak¡¯s second disciple, relentlessly suppressing Xiao Qianhe and making him cough up blood repeatedly.

    ¡°Xiao Qianhe, you¡¯re the gutsy one in my opinion. How dare you try to kill our Peerless Peak¡¯s people. No one can save you today!

    ¡°A Manifestation realm trash like you dares to make a move? Fifty years ago, First Senior Brother stormed the Law Enforcement Hall and publicly executed Mingde, that old coot. Today, I shall cut you down in public and let everyone know why our Peerless Peak is known as peerless!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A terrifying palm seal struck across the sky, breaking through everything andnding on Xiao Qianhe. His tendons snapped and his bones broke from the impact, making him scream miserably. Fresh blood spilled along the way as he was knocked back, struggling to steady himself.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Gasps echoed everywhere as spectators reacted in shock.

    No one had expected the Law Enforcement Hall and Peerless Peak to erupt into a brutal fight right after thepetition. The Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s casualties were mounting rapidly.

    Xiao Qianhe steadied himself. His bloodshot gaze swept across the Heavenly Bastion Peak and the other halls as he roared furiously, ¡°Chu Chunqiu, what are you people waiting for?¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph!</i> Anyone who dares to intervene will find themselves as my enemy, and that kind of confrontation only ends in death!¡± Di Chen threatened, his voice cold as he crossed over to Xiao Qianhe in a sh.

    ¡°Old coot, did you think you can act as you please because of your status as the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s elder? <i>Hmph</i>, your hall has bullied others for years and many are already fed up with it. Now you dare to step on our Peerless Peak? Very well, I shall let your Law Enforcement Hall relive the nightmare from fifty years ago!¡±

    <i>C!</i>

    A ripping sound filled the air as Di Chen tore off one of Xiao Qianhe¡¯s arms, causing blood to spurt wildly.

    ¡°Ah!¡± Xiao Qianhe let out a miserable cry, his eyes filled with horror.

    The eyes of Chu Chunqiu and the chief disciples of the other main peaks twitched. They hadn¡¯t expected Xiao Qianhe to be no match for Di Chen; Peerless Peak truly lived up to its name.

    They refrained from responding to Xiao Qianhe¡¯s shouts, knowing that intervening in a battle between two deities could lead to their own destruction.

    The Law Enforcement Hall was formidable, but so was the Peerless Peak.

    While they all wanted to kill Chen Fan, any move against him would invite retaliation from Peerless Peak.

    The Law Enforcement Hall held significant status and authority, supported by powerful figures. They might dare to oppose Peerless Peak, but the other main peaks had to think twice.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    Xiao Qianhe was heavily injured after Di Chen. On the other side, Duanmu Lingxing and the others were ughtering the Law Enforcement Hall members, forcing them to drop their armor and cry out for help.

    Chen Fan''s eyes zed with ferocity as he rushed down, joining Duanmu Lingxing and his trio in the carnage.

    Although he was only at the second-level Heavenly Star realm, killing fifth or sixth-level Heavenly Star realm Law Enforcement Hall disciples took almost no effort from him.

    The crowd sucked in a breath of cold air, realizing why Qin Wang and the others ended up dying.

    Qin Wang and the others were indeed peerless geniuses, they were nowhere near Chen Fan¡¯s level.

    Could Qin Wang and the others kill fifth or sixth-level Heavenly Star realm experts with only second-level Heavenly Star realm cultivation?

    Everyone¡¯s minds were shaken.

    Peerless Peak, Peerless Peak. They were all peerless indeed.

    It wasn¡¯t only Chen Fan; Duanmu Lingxing, Yan Weiyi, and Jian Qi were all easily killing enemies above their levels. Otherwise, how could they overpower the Law Enforcement Hall members despite facing such overwhelming numbers?

    Suddenly, the winds picked up, and dark clouds surged in the sky. A furious voice echoed, making the heavens seem to crack open.

    ¡°Di Chen, how bold you are. How dare you massacre our Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people. You¡¯re courting death!¡±

    A terrifying palm seal pressed down heavily, carrying a wisp of aura that contained thews.

    A Legendary realm powerhouse had struck.

    Even Di Chen¡¯s expression changed in the face of this palm seal.

    He was at the eighth-level Manifestation realm and could take on peak Manifestation realm martial artists. However, he was no match for Legendary realm experts¡ªfigures who had already begun understanding the power of thews of heaven and earth.

    As the palm seal descended, threatening to severely injure Di Chen, an irrepressible voice rang out. ¡°Old man Xuande, how very bold of you. You dare to bully my, Huang Wuji¡¯s, junior brothers and sister? What, did you really think our Peerless Peak has no one?¡±

    A terrifying fist force erupted from an unknown source, faster than a stream of light, shattering the palm seal aimed at Di Chen.

    Simultaneously, another terrifying palm seal sted out, striking the void. A ck-robed figure was sent flying, the true primeval around him exploding crazily.

 Chapter 733 - Huang Wuji

    <h4>Chapter 733 - Huang Wuji</h4>

    A storm seemed to be brewing over the Demon Realm tform.

    No one had expected the Law Enforcement Hall to make a move against the Peerless Peak. Xiao Qianhe wanted to kill Chen Fan; consequently, two great halls went to war.

    Although the Peerless Peak only had five people on their side, every one of them was a monstrous genius, ughtering Law Enforcement Hall members until they were begging for mercy.

    Even Xiao Qianhe, a peak Manifestation realm expert, was overwhelmed by Di Chen, who tore off one of his arms.

    ¡°This... this...¡±

    The crowd watched in stunned silence.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Just as Xiao Qianhe faced imminent death, a colossal hand appeared from the void, looming over the battlefield. It was the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s Legendary realm expert making his move.

    But before the hand could strike, a booming voice reverberated through the sky. ¡°Old man Xuande, how very bold of you. You dare to bully my, Huang Wuji¡¯s, junior brothers and sister? What, did you really think our Peerless Peak has no one?¡±

    A terrifying fist force crossed over the sky like a meteor and shattered the massive hand.

    Before anyone could react, another palm strike obliterated the void, sending a ck-robed elder flying as the air crackled with exploding true primeval.

    The crowd gasped as they recognized the elder.

    ¡°Heavens, it¡¯s the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s Elder Xuande!¡±

    As the hall in charge of the punishments, the Law Enforcement Hall was strong.

    Fifty years ago, three Legendary realm peak experts oversaw the Law Enforcement Hall. They made the mistake of capturing Peerless Peak''s Jian Qi. In response, Huang Wuji, a peak Manifestation realm expert back then, stormed the Law Enforcement Hall and killed Elder Mingde, a Legendary realm expert.

    On the Tianwu Continent, Legends were apex beings, capable of founding superpowers.

    The True Martial Academy, as one of the nine overlord-ss forces on the continent, boasted more than ten Legendary realm experts, but losing a peak expert like Elder Mingde was a catastrophe even for them.

    ¡°My god, that¡¯s a Legendary realm peak expert. He got sent flying with a palm strike. How terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Dumb ass, didn¡¯t you hear the words ¡®Huang Wuji?¡¯ He sent Elder Xuande flying. It¡¯s nothing surprising.¡±

    ¡°Huang Wuji has returned. The Law Enforcement Hall is doomed. They can¡¯t back out of this now."

    ¡°That¡¯s right. He could kill a Lesser Legendary expert realm fifty years ago. Now that he¡¯s be a Legend, I¡¯m afraid killing Elder Xuande wouldn¡¯t be too difficult for him!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    As the crowd whispered in awe, a figure suddenly appeared on the horizon, moving with incredible speed. Space seemed to shrink beneath his feet as he covered an immense distance in mere moments, arriving at the Demon Realm tform.

    He was a young man, appearing no older than twenty-seven or twenty-eight, with an upright, robust frame. His face was strikingly handsome, with sharp, sword-like eyebrows that extended to his temples, exuding a heroic andmanding presence.

    An indescribable aura surrounded Huang Wuji as if the very heaven and earth revolved around him.

    This was a true Legend¡ªsomeone who had begun toprehend thews of the universe. Every movement carried the weight of thesews, making them iparably monstrous.

    ¡°First Senior Brother!¡± shouted Di Chen and the others, overjoyed.

    This youth was the Peerless Peak¡¯s chief disciple, Huang Wuji.

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>.¡± Huang Wuji nodded at Di Chen and the others and grabbed at the void. It was as if he grasped the entire universe in his palm, and with a subtle motion, Xiao Qianhe was captured in his grip.

    Xiao Qianhe¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    Of all the people in Peerless Peak, it wasn''t their Peak Master, Zhang Daoling, who terrified him the most¡ªit was Huang Wuji.

    He had witnessed Huang Wuji killing Elder Mingde in front of the Law Enforcement Hall higher-ups back then.

    That scene had left an indelible mark on Xiao Qianhe¡¯s mind.

    ¡°Old man, how very bold of you. How dare you make a move against my junior brothers and sister. You must be tired of living, or did you think the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s name could protect you?¡± His tone was indifferent, as though this was merely an inconvenience, yet it made Xiao Qianhe tremble even more.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Elder Xuande returned from wherever he had been sent flying to, and his aura raged, surging to the sky. His Legendary realm pressure flooded the space, turning it thick with an overwhelming intensity.

    His face contorted with fury, Elder Xuande red at Huang Wuji with murderous intent. The very air between them crackled with tension, as two titans of power prepared to sh.

    ¡°Huang Wuji!¡±

    ¡°Pipe down, you old coot. No matter how loud you shout, you still won¡¯t be my match,¡± Huang Wuji said dismissively, casting a disdainful nce at Elder Xuande, as if the Legendary realm peak expert didn¡¯t even warrant his full attention.

    The crowd, especially the chief disciples from the other main peaks, felt a surge of conflicting emotions.

    Many had entered the academy around the same time as Huang Wuji, and all of them had once been hailed as prodigies on the Ancient Trial Roads. Yet, no matter how bright their stars shone, they had beenpletely overshadowed by Huang Wuji.

    Their cultivations weren¡¯t weak now, at peak Manifestation realm, only a step away from being Legends.

    However, the chasm between them and Huang Wuji still felt insurmountable. His presence was like the sky above, forever unattainable.

    A simr phenomenon was happening now with the new generation. Chen Fan, with his meteoric rise, had cast a shadow over all his peers.

    Elder Xuande¡¯s eyes could spew fire, ring angrily with seething hatred.

    ¡°Huang Wuji, you¡¯re too insolent. Quickly let go of Xiao Qianhe!¡±

    Huang Wuji sneered, curling his lips, ¡°I have to let him go just because you say so? Who do you think you are? And let me remind you, this isn¡¯t the first time I¡¯ve acted like this. If you don¡¯t like it, make a move! If you can save this trash from my hands, I might acknowledge your strength.¡±

    Huang Wuji¡¯s words caused Elder Xuande¡¯s face to turn ashen. His reputation as one of the most feared figures in the True Martial Academy meant nothing in the face of Huang Wuji''s overwhelming confidence and arrogance.

    Xuande felt truly powerless.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you don¡¯t even have the guts to do it. Xuande, if you can¡¯t do it, tell Tian Xing, that old coot, toe!¡± Huang Wuji waved his hand at Elder Xuande like he was waving a fly.

    Chen Fan looked at Huang Wuji, feeling admiration in his heart.

    Although Chen Fan had heard a lot of legends about Huang Wuji, seeing him today, he truly lived up to his name.

    The moment Huang Wuji¡¯s voice fell, heaven and earth sank heavily. An iparably terrifying aura descended.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    This aura was so powerful that it far surpassed Elder Xuande¡¯s.

    A cold voice rang out.

    ¡°I am here!¡±

 Chapter 734 - Explanation

    <h4>Chapter 734 - Exnation</h4>

    ¡°I am here!¡±

    As this cold, imposing voice rang out, the space seemed to boil.

    An old man dressed in golden robes emerged from the void. His presence made people instinctively want to bow in submission, like gazing up at a towering mountain in awe.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    The crowd broke out into amotion when they saw him.

    ¡°It¡¯s Elder Tian Xing!¡± [1]

    This gold-robed elder was none other than the Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s Hall Master, a big shot of the True Martial Academy. Tian Xing was in the Greater Legendary realm.

    Chen Fan studied Tian Xing, sensing an aura that seemed to control the life and death of all beings under heaven.

    It was the power of punishment¡ªan overwhelming force, like ancient divine mountains pressing down on heaven and earth, suffocating all beneath them.

    Without revealing any of his cultivation, Elder Tian Xing strode over. However, that formless oppressive pressure grew stronger, making it difficult for people to breathe and filling their minds with horror.

    ¡°Huang Wuji, how very bold of you Peerless Peak people to ughter my Law Enforcement Hall¡¯s people. You have to give me an exnation!¡± Elder Tian Xing red fiercely. It was as if a universe was flowing in his eyes, shooting two streaks of sharp light to stab those daring to meet his eyes.

    As his words fell, the air froze.

    In the Legendary realm, cultivators understood thews of heaven and earth. Lesser Legendary experts only brushed the surface, while Greater Legendaries had crossed the threshold, and Invincible Legendaries could skillfully wield the power ofws.

    Rumor had it that immortals grasped the essence of thesews, incorporating their power into themselves, reaching a state where their words alone couldmand thews.

    The phrase ¡°attain the Dao to be an immortal¡± referred to this mastery ofws.

    Whilews were the most fundamental force of heaven and earth, they were also the hardest toprehend. Some might spend their entire lives without even touching the surface of this power.

    Elder Tian Xing, in the Greater Legendary realm, could already wield thews. The power ofw flowed around him, and every move of his resonated with the heavens.

    ¡°Exnation?¡±

    Facing Elder Tian Xing¡¯s questioning and oppression, Huang Wuji remained unfazed. He raised his eyebrow and said coldly, ¡°What exnation do you want?¡±

    Despite only being in the Lesser Legendary realm, Huang Wuji¡ªwho could kill a Lesser Legendary even before his breakthrough¡ªshowed no fear in front of Elder Tian Xing.

    ¡°A murderer must pay with his life, as a debtor pays with money. It¡¯s what¡¯s right and natural!¡± said Elder Tian Xing coldly.

    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Huang Wujiughed out loud and replied, ¡°A murderer must pay with his life, as a debtor pays with money. Well said! You want an exnation? Fine, I¡¯ll give you one.¡±

    Suddenly, Huang Wuji sped his hand fiercely. Xiao Qianhe, struggling in his grasp, couldn¡¯t even scream before he was squashed like a bug.

    This entire space fell silent. The crowd even forgot to breathe, and everyone¡¯s eyes went wide.

    Huang Wuji looked up, his fierce gaze meeting Elder Tian Xing¡¯s, and said, ¡°Are you satisfied with this exnation?¡±

    <i>Are you satisfied with this exnation?</i>

    Huang Wuji¡¯s words echoed in space, vibrating in the crowd¡¯s eardrums.

    Everyone felt their hearts twitch violently as if an invisible hand had squeezed them hard.

    Huang Wuji had killed Xiao Qianhe in public as an exnation.

    Countless people¡¯s hearts and minds were violently shaken.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    A terrifying aura burst like a volcanic eruption from Elder Tian Xing. It swept through the sky like a storm, shaking thends.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Heaven and earth trembled violently under Elder Tian Xing¡¯s aura, seemingly trembling in fear. Everyone felt deeply suffocated.

    It was clear¡ªElder Tian Xing was furious. His rage threatened to burn the world to ashes.h.

    ¡°HUANG. WU. JI!¡±

    His boiling anger burst forth, his voice thundering through the air. Those with weaker cultivation groaned as blood trickled from their mouths, injured by the sheer force of his shout.

    When a Legend raged, millions of corpses could follow, with rivers of blood flowing for miles.

    Elder Tian Xing¡¯s fiery gaze locked onto Huang Wuji, fury zing inside him like a roaring furnace. His aura twisted and tore the surrounding space, creating a terrifying scene.

    Facing the pressureing from Elder Tian Xing, Chen Fan and the others felt like an ancient divine mountain was pressing down on them. Their chests tightened and their breathing became rugged, even Di Chen was no exception.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Despite them channeling their cultivation to resist this pressure, it was useless.

    The gap between them and Elder Tian Xing was too vast¡ªa chasm they couldn¡¯t cross.

    Huang Wuji¡¯s expression turned icy. His powerful aura surged, and immediately Chen Fan and the others felt relief as the crushing pressure eased.

    ¡°Tian Xing!¡±

    ¡°Huang Wuji, how dare you kill Xiao Qianhe. How dare you?¡±

    Elder Tian Xing¡¯s voice was like thunder, rumbling in the crowd¡¯s ears. The people¡¯splexions turned pale.

    ¡°So what if I killed him? He dared to scheme against our Peerless Peak¡¯s people. That¡¯s courting death, even if he¡¯s an elder of your Law Enforcement Hall! It seems like ughtering Mingde that old coot fifty years ago didn¡¯t teach your hall a lesson. Since that is the case, I¡¯ll take care of you today and teach you a painful lesson!¡± Huang Wuji¡¯s words dripped with tyranny.

    Everyone felt their hearts stirring.

    Fifty years ago, Huang Wuji slew the Lesser Legendary realm Mingde.

    Today, he dered that he would take care of Elder Tian Xing.

    Their blood surged with restless excitement.

    ¡°Audacious!¡±

    Huang Wuji¡¯s words ignited Elder Tian Xing¡¯s fury. An icy light shed in his eyes as he pressed forward with a massive hand, causing the space to explode and shake thend.

    ¡°Monument of Heavenly Punishment!¡±

    A ten-thousand-foot-tall stone tablet descended from the sky, emanating an intense power of punishment. The monument was engraved with the words ¡°Heavenly Punishment.¡±

    The air exploded continuously under the monument, making countless hearts tremble.

    <i>So, this is the power of a Legendary realm peak expert?</i>

    It was indeed iparably terrifying, making them feel like mere ants before the might of heaven. Facing this Monument of Heavenly Punishment, they couldn''t even entertain thoughts of resistance.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart was also trembling violently.

    Chen Fan¡¯s heart raced as he gazed at the descending monument, which felt like a divine entity. Under its weight, he feared he would be crushed to pieces and thoroughly annihted.

    Huang Wuji faced this terrifying attack head-on. The intense air currents blew fiercely, making his clothes flutter loudly.

    There wasn¡¯t a hint of panic on Huang Wuji¡¯s face. There was only calmness and even a hint of disdain in his eyes.

    1. Tian Xing literally means heavenly punishment. ?

 Chapter 735 - Closing Curtain

    <h4>Chapter 735 - Closing Curtain</h4>

    The terrifying Monument of Heavenly Punishment pressed down. Heaven and earth rumbled, and the mountains cracked.

    Everyone felt horrified. A Legendary realm expert was too powerful; it was simply unimaginable.

    However, Huang Wuji remained unfazed by Elder Tian Xing¡¯s attack. He showed no panic, and his eyes even reflected a hint of disdain.

    His aura soared fiercely, matching Elder Tian Xing, a Greater Legendary realm expert.

    Every member of the Peerless Peak stood out as a dragon among men, able to challenge those above their levels.

    Though many said that higher cultivation made it harder to bypass levels, Huang Wuji could kill a Lesser Legendary realm expert at peak Manifestation realm. Now, his understanding ofws wasn¡¯t any weaker than Elder Tian Xing¡¯s.

    ¡°Tian Xing, you want to suppress and kill me? Your Greater Legendary realm cultivation is not enough!¡± Huang Wuji dered. His clothing fluttered as he struck fiercely at the void with his palm.

    Immediately, space seemed to shatter. Several terrifying palm seals sted forward, exuding the aura of life and death.

    It was a heaven-tier martial art¡ªHundred Palms of Life and Death.

    Numerous palm seals, as if they wereunched by a god to determine life and death, violently bombarded the Monument of Heavenly Punishment. Intense explosions immediately boomed, turning space into primal chaos.

    Everyone felt horrified; the destructive power from thebination ofw and heaven-tier martial arts was unimaginable, threatening to obliterate the world.

    <i>Boom, boom, rumble!</i>

    Huang Wuji and Tian Xing¡¯s attacks collided fiercely in the sky. Explosions rang out continuously, producing shockwaves that surged like an ocean.

    These shockwaves threatened to destroy everything in their path, cracking the earth and crumbling mountains.

    <i>Uegh, uegh, uegh...</i>

    Those in the Divine Nascent realm and Heavenly Star realms spewed blood repeatedly, unable to contain themselves.

    Under Huang Wuji¡¯s protection, Chen Fan and the others felt little impact as they looked up at the sky. Both Huang Wuji and Tian Xing resembled gods, gazing down on the world from their lofty positions.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Seventy-eight palm seals bombarded the Monument of Heavenly Punishment in session. The ten-thousand-foot-tall monument blew up violently, turning into a mass of primeval qi and dissipating.

    Elder Tian Xing''s expression darkened as he witnessed his monument shatter after enduring Huang Wuji''s assault. The remaining twenty-two palm seals surged toward him, intent on destruction.

    ¡°Break!¡±

    Elder Tian Xing¡¯s golden robes fluttered. His gaze was sharp, and his aura boiled fiercely as he unleashed a palm strike, shaking thends.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Twenty-two explosions rang out in quick session. The clouds within a fifty-kilometer radius vanished, leaving the skies clear.

    Before Elder Tian Xing could catch a breath after blocking the palm seals, Huang Wuji¡¯s icy voice rang out in space.

    ¡°Die!¡±

    A massive palm seal crashed down on Tian Xing, shattering his protective true primeval and sending him flying like a meteor, crashing into several towering mountains.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    Sounds of people sucking in breaths of cold air rang out everywhere.

    Countless horrified gazes fell on Huang Wuji. They could not believe that Elder Tian Xing had been sent flying by him, spilling blood in the sky.

    That was a Greater Legendary realm big shot!

    ¡°Huang Wuji, how terrifying!¡±

    ¡°Not even Elder Tian Xing can match him. My god, the gap between him and us isn¡¯t shrinking; it¡¯s only widening!¡±

    ¡°Living in the same era as Huang Wuji, that¡¯s destined to be our sorrow.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The expressions of the chief disciples of the various main peaks changed, lookingplicated.

    They were all prideful geniuses of their eras, expected to shine in a contest of supremacy. Instead, Huang Wuji''s emergence overshadowed them, ensuring they lived forever in his shadow.

    ¡°As expected of First Senior Brother, mighty!¡± eximed Jian Qi.

    Chen Fan also nodded.

    Elder Xuande and the other members of the Law Enforcement Hall were dumbfounded and surprised to see their hall master in such a dire state.

    The disheveled Tian Xing emerged from the debris, his rage palpable. Streams of terrifying aura erupted from him, shaking the sun and the moon.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    His eyes werepletely bloodshot.

    Shame!

    Utter shame!

    As the Hall Master of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall, and a Greater Legendary realm peak expert, being sent flying by Huang Wuji in front of countless witnesses felt worse than death.

    ¡°Huang Wuji, I¡¯ll kill you! I¡¯ll kill you!¡± roared Elder Tian Xing furiously like a wild beast.

    ¡°Kill me? Can you?¡± Huang Wujiughed disdainfully.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡±

    Huang Wuji¡¯s show of contempt made Elder Tian Xing even angrier. His aura exploded wildly, ready to strike out without a care, determined to kill Huang Wuji and wash away his shame.

    Suddenly, an icy voice emerged from the depths of space and time, carrying an undeniable authority.

    ¡°Enough!¡±

    Everyone¡¯s souls trembled when they heard this voice, including Elder Tian Xing and Huang Wuji.

    A vortex formed in the sky, seemingly connected to another world. The voice rang out from within once more, ¡°Huang Wuji, Tian Xing, this matter ends here!¡±

    Neither Huang Wuji nor Elder Tian Xing dared to refute the voice¡¯s owner.

    ¡°Yes, Academy Master.¡±

    ¡°Tian Xing, the Law Enforcement Hall is in charge of the academy¡¯s punishments. They must be fair, just, and impartial. Over the years, its conduct has fostered resentment within the academy, and you are partly to me.¡±

    Elder Tian Xing¡¯s eyes flickered, and he said, ¡°I realize my mistake.¡±

    ¡°Huang Wuji, your Peerless Peak has acted with arrogance, disregarding the academy¡¯s rule¡ª¡±

    However, Huang Wuji interjected, ¡°Academy Master, our Peerless Peak may have been arrogant, but we¡¯ve always followed the rules, unlike certain people. They allowed their subordinates tomit outrages, turning the academy into a mess, and even climbing over Peerless Peak. We had no choice but to resist.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, if not for that, on the basis of you killing Elder Xiao Qianhe today, not even Zhang Daoling, that old fellow, could have protected you!¡±

    Huang Wuji curled his lips, not retorting any further.

    ¡°Although the Law Enforcement Hall is at fault first, your Peerless Peak has also done wrong. If onemits a mistake, it is only right that they are punished. This time, your Peerless Peak has taken first ce in the rookies¡¯ Demon Hunting Competition, but the resources you receive shall be cut in half as your punishment. Do you have any objections?¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±

    ¡°Very good.¡±

    After leaving those two words behind, the vortex in the void also dissipated.

    Everyone understood that the Academy Master had directly punished both the Law Enforcement Hall and the Peerless Peak.

 Chapter 736 - Creating a Stir in the Academy

    <h4>Chapter 736 - Creating a Stir in the Academy</h4>

    The sh between the Peerless Peak and the Law Enforcement Hall when the True Martial Academy¡¯s academy master intervened.

    Although he punished both sides, anyone with a discerning eye could tell that he had favored the Peerless Peak¡¯s side.

    The Law Enforcement Hall not only failed to gain any advantage but also suffered heavy losses, even losing a peak Manifestation realm expert like Xiao Qianhe.

    In contrast, Peerless Peak only had half of its cultivation resources deducted.

    However, given their small numbers and their historically low share of resources from previous Demon Hunting Competitions, this deduction had no real impact on them. Peerless Peak essentially lost nothing.

    Tian Xing clearly understood this. Although furious, he could do nothing, as this was the academy master¡¯s decision.

    He could not even beat Huang Wuji, let alone challenge the academy master¡¯s authority.

    Although many academy big shots supported the Law Enforcement Hall behind the scenes, even those big shots couldn¡¯t challenge the academy master.

    Furthermore, the Law Enforcement Hall was in the wrong this time, so even the High Elder backing them had no way to intervene.

    Elder Tian Xing swept a nce at Huang Wuji and the others coldly, then let out a cold, heavy snort and left in frustration.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡±

    Elder Xuande and the other members of the Law Enforcement Hall also didn¡¯t have the face to continue staying there.

    As soon as they left, the crowd began murmuring among themselves.

    ¡°<i>Tsk tsk</i>, the Law Enforcement Hall really suffered heavy casualties and ate a huge loss this time.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. The academy master was definitely biased toward the Peerless Peak. That can¡¯t be helped either. After all, the Law Enforcement Hall waspletely in the wrong here.¡±

    ¡°Hehe, so you guys couldn¡¯t read between the lines, I see. The academy master actually used this opportunity to knock the Law Enforcement Hall down a peg or two.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°For years, the Law Enforcement Hall has abused its authority, from disciples to elders, acting arrogantly and punishing whoever they wanted. This has stirred growing dissent across the academy. Many are already fed up. The academy master used this chance to remind them that he¡¯s aware of their actions.

    ¡°If things continue down this path, next time he won¡¯t stop at just knocking them down a peg. As the academy¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall, they should be fair and uphold stability; instead, Qi Cheng tried to intercept and kill Chen Fan at True Martial City¡¯s gates, tantly breaking the rules.

    ¡°Plus, Chen Fan¡¯s talent far surpasses people like Qin Wang and the First Dragon Lord. Although the Peerless Peak acts arrogantly, they are still part of the academy. Do you really think he would punish Chen Fan, someone who could ascend to immortality?¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmm</i>, you have a point. That is indeed how it is.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    ¡°Haha, Little Junior Brother!¡±

    Huang Wuji appeared in front of Di Chen and the others, his earlier ferocity gone.

    ¡°First Senior Brother,¡± Chen Fan greeted him.

    Huang Wuji sized up Chen Fan and said, ¡°Very good, not bad at all. As expected of Teacher, his skill is unmatched; he didn¡¯t misjudge you. You¡¯ve truly brought glory to our peak in thispetition. It¡¯s our first time taking first ce in so many years. Hahaha, well done!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re ttering me, First Senior Brother. I was just doing my duty,¡± Chen Fan replied humbly.

    In thispetition, Chen Fan dominated his generation, drawing all attention to himself. Everyone else only served to highlight him as he set a new record in the True Martial Academy¡¯s history.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. Back to the Peerless Peak!¡± Huang Wujiughed out loud. Then, Chen Fan and the others kicked off the ground and flew toward the Peerless Peak.

    ......

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    News of the fierce sh between Law Enforcement Hall and Peerless Peak spread throughout the True Martial Academy almost immediately, shaking everyone. When they learned the details, many were left speechless, gaining newfound respect for Peerless Peak.

    The Peerless Peak truly lived up to its name¡ªElder Tian Xing of the Law Enforcement Hall couldn¡¯t gain any advantage before them and only ended up losing face.

    The academy master¡¯s handling of the situation also caused waves.

    The True Martial Academy had onemodity in excess: geniuses. It didn¡¯t take long for these geniuses to realize that the academy master was dissatisfied with the Law Enforcement Hall and used this chance to put them in their ce.

    Most of the academy cheered this oue.

    Afterward, more details about the Demon Hunting Competition spread, immediately sending an even bigger storm sweeping through the academy.

    Those outside the Little Demon Realm had no idea what had happened inside, and as the news spread, the entire crowd was shocked.

    Qin Wang and five other top talents, along with about a hundred geniuses, surrounded Chen Fan and bombarded him, but he stood unharmed. In the end, he wiped them all out.

    And when Chen Fan underwent his heavenly star tribtion. Jambudvipa Tribtion Water, Ephemeral Epiphyllum Fire, ck Yellow Tribtion Earth, and Eternal Divine Wind¡ªfour terrifying cmities appeared, but he easily overcame them all.

    While he was dealing with the tribtion, demon experts attacked him, including two at the sixth-level Heavenly Star realm, three at the fifth level, and several at the third and fourth level. They nned to kill Chen Fan, but he annihted them all as well.

    As stories of Chen Fan¡¯s feats spread¡ªexaggerated over time¡ªhe was soon portrayed as a monster that was an immortal reincarnated.

    The entire academy was in an uproar. Countless people were talking about this.

    Many found it unbelievable that Chen Fan, having just advanced to the Heavenly Star realm, could kill demons who had slipped through the academy¡¯s defenses and even make them beg for mercy.

    As a result, the crowd also felt that Chen Fan must be an immortal reincarnated, given his extraordinary power.

    Chen Fan quickly became famous, remembered by countless people.

    Although Peerless Peak taking in Chen Fan as a disciple had caused a sensation in the academy, its higher-ups did not pay attention to it.

    However, even these higher-ups had begun to take notice of Chen Fan. Rumors said that even the High Elder Council knew about it.

    In this Demon Hunting Competition, several main peaks like the Limitless Peak had suffered unspeakable losses. Heavenly Bastion Peak, Stargazer Peak, Unsheathed Peak, and Great Cliff Peak had each recruited peerless talents, future seeds for reaching the Legendary realm. However, out of jealousy, these prodigies got involved in the attack on Chen Fan and were killed by him.

    These main peaks had no choice but to suffer in silence.

    Not only did those prodigies bring about their own deaths, but they also dragged numerous geniuses down with them, leading to heavy losses. Their younger generation nowgged behind other peaks, finishing at the bottom of the rankings, which cut their resources significantly.

    Toward this, the older disciples of these main peaks cursed Qin Wang and the others severely.

 Chapter 737 - Taking on Missions

    <h4>Chapter 737 - Taking on Missions</h4>

    The Heavenly Bastion Peak and the three other main peaks could only ept the oue begrudgingly.

    After all, they needed a reason to cause a scene.

    They couldn¡¯t im that their disciples wanted Chen Fan dead and expected him to just stand still without resisting.

    As news of the Little Demon Realm spread, Chen Fan sent the True Martial Academy into an uproar.

    Even those Invincible Legendary realm old timers of the High Elder Council had heard of Chen Fan, showing just how influential he had be.

    Of course, the world didn¡¯t revolve around Chen Fan forever.

    As time passed, the stir caused by him slowly faded.

    The True Martial Academy was full of geniuses, and thepetitive pressure was huge. Without continuous improvement, one quickly fell behind as others advanced.

    Chen Fan¡¯s feats in the Little Demon Realm and the sh between the two peaks were merely moments of excitement in the students'' rigorous cultivation journeys. Once the excitement passed, they returned to their routines.

    A sense of urgency gripped many, especially the older disciples.

    They had people pressing them from above, and Chen Fan¡¯s generation of peerless talents was already catching up to them, so they couldn¡¯t afford to rx.

    Thus, it did not take long before the storm raised by Chen Fan and the Peerless Peak gradually subsided.

    Everyone focused on cultivating.

    The Peerless Peak was as deste as ever, cold and cheerless.

    At a cliff, Chen Fan was facing the sea of clouds, breathing in and out.

    The Demon Hunting Competition was now behind him. Now his goal was to raise his cultivation in preparation for the True Martial Assembly, also known as the Summit Martial Meet, in three years.

    All disciples of the True Martial Academy would take part in it. Even the other superpowers of the eastern continent would send representatives.

    In the recentpetition, Chen Fan had faced mostly rookie disciples. However, in three years, he would contend with the entire True Martial Academy. While he wasn''t weak, he currently ranked only among the middle-lower tiers in the academy.

    However, Chen Fan still felt confident. He could already fight against fifth and sixth-level Heavenly Star realm experts now. Who could say how strong he would be in three years?

    He believed that he would be invincible in the Heavenly Star realm by then.

    He also had nock of cultivation resources, so that wasn¡¯t a limiting factor.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He had hell ores and the cultivation resources he received from cing first in the Demon Hunting Competition.

    Feeling a strong sense of belonging to Peerless Peak, Chen Fan appreciated that Huang Wuji, Di Chen, and the others had put everything on the line, shing with the Law Enforcement Hall to protect him. So, he didn''t keep his sess with the hell ores a secret from Huang Wuji and the others.

    The Peerless Peak was his second home now. Huang Wuji and the others were his family.

    Naturally, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to support his family.

    Huang Wuji was already in the Lesser Legendary realm, so the hell ores were crucial for his advancement.

    Although the True Martial Academy had hell ores, their avability was limited, requiring a significant amount of merit points to acquire them.

    Chen Fan had close to a thousand pieces of hell ores. He had spent fifty pieces of them to advance to the Heavenly Star realm and gave Huang Wuji two hundred pieces.

    He also gave Di Chen and the others some hell ores after refining away their demonic qi and demonic will, allowing them toprehend the power ofws within. That would help themy a solid foundation for advancing into the Legendary realm.

    Huang Wuji could kill the Lesser Legendary realm Elder Mingde with peak Manifestation realm cultivation because he had alreadyprehended the power ofw.

    Huang Wuji and the others were both shocked and thrilled by Chen Fan¡¯s abilities. They couldn''t believe that he could refine away the demonic qi and demonic will in the hell ores.

    At the same time, they were excited about the prospect of using the purified ores to gradually grasp the power ofws, making their future paths much easier.

    Of course, they did not pry deep into Chen Fan¡¯s secrets.

    After all, they were all monstrous geniuses, and each of them had fortuitous encounters unknown to others.

    Time passed by like a blur, day after day went by, not stopping for anyone.

    Soon, a year had passed.

    In the Heavenly Star realm, it wasmon for cultivators to remain at a particr level for years, even decades.

    At this point, the increase in true primeval was not the sole factor in advancing cultivation; the strength of one¡¯s Martial Dao Will yed an equally crucial role.

    However, strengthening one¡¯s Martial Dao Will was a slow, deliberate process that required deepprehension, with no shortcuts avable.

    Chen Fan had spent a good chunk of thest yearprehending and enhancing his Martial Dao Will. His efforts paid off as he reached the third level.

    Chen Fan exhaled a mouthful of turbid qi. Looking at the tumbling sea of clouds, he couldn¡¯t help but sigh. ¡°Enhancing my dao will sure is difficult.¡±

    Although advancing a level in just one year was impressive, he felt it was still somewhat slow.

    Not content to remain idle, Chen Fan decided to go out to train. He decided toplete the various academy missions to train himself.

    Countless disciples came in and out of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Merit Hall, selecting missions that suited their interests.

    Chen Fan walked straight in, where several neatly arranged tables featured disciples of the Merit Hall, all at least in the Heavenly Star realm. Some were even supervised by a Manifestation realm expert. These individuals were all tasked with managing the academy''s missions.

    The Merit Hall was simr to the Law Enforcement Hall in that they were both very important halls and would likewise recruit some disciples.

    In the True Martial Academy, the Merit Hall held immense influence that wasn¡¯t any inferior to the Law Enforcement Hall. They were both giant organizations, responsible for rewarding and punishing disciples.

    If the Law Enforcement Hall being in charge of the punishments was the stick, then the Merit Hall being in charge of rewards was the carrot. Unlike the notorious reputation of the Law Enforcement Hall, the Merit Hall was generally viewed in a much more favorable light.

    Chen Fan walked up to a table, where a peak Heavenly Star realm expert presided. His aura was withdrawn, with his immediate surroundings changing in thousands of ways. He was not far off from reaching the Manifestation realm.

    ¡°This junior brother, what mission do you want to take?¡± asked the expert.

    Although it was very difficult to tell a person¡¯s age from their appearance, there were still ways to infer some clues.

    This young man was clearly under a hundred years old and had already reached the peak of the Heavenly Star realm¡ªa true genius among geniuses.

    ¡°Is there any mission suitable for a sixth or seventh-level Heavenly Star realm?¡± Chen Fan asked.

    The peak Heavenly Star realm disciple looked up, surprise evident on his face. ¡°Junior brother, you¡¯re only at the third level. Taking on a mission of such difficulty seems a bit unwise.¡±

    His tone was not condescending; rather, he was offering a kind reminder. After all, missions often came with significant risks, and fatalities were not umon.

 Chapter 738 - Sang Chong

    <h4>Chapter 738 - Sang Chong</h4>

    A sixth-level Heavenly Star realm expert, standing close to Chen Fan, said, ¡°You¡¯re a rookie, aren¡¯t you? Breaking through to the third-level Heavenly Star realm in just two years is impressive, but you don¡¯t know your limits. Stick to ordinary missions."

    As soon as one of the disciples recognized Chen Fan, the crowd''s attention shifted to him.

    ¡°You¡¯re Chen Fan? That Chen Fan from the Peerless Peak?¡±

    People always remembered the top talents from every cohort, especially someone like Chen Fan, who outshone them all. There was no way they wouldn¡¯t recognize him.

    ¡°So, he is Chen Fan? As expected, his aura is restrained and his cultivation is unfathomable. He¡¯s almost on par with us.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard he was surrounded by ten demon race experts, including two sixth-level Heavenly Star realm experts, and still wiped them out with ease. This is what real monstrous talent looks like."

    ¡°We can¡¯t bepared to him at all. Even after cultivating for nearly a century, we are only at the fifth or sixth-level Heavenly Star realm. But him? In his twenties and already strong enough to kill those in the sixth level. There¡¯s noparison.¡±

    ¡°As much as we hate to admit it, even though we¡¯re considered geniuses, next to a monster like Chen Fan, we¡¯re nothing special."

    ¡°......¡±

    The nearby crowd murmured among themselves. That sixth-level Heavenly Star realm disciple who mocked Chen Fan earlier felt too ashamed to face anyone.

    He imed Chen Fan didn¡¯t know his limits, but who truly underestimated the vastness of heaven and earth?

    Despite being a sixth-level Heavenly Star realm expert, he was nothing before Chen Fan.

    Although Chen Fan was still only at the third-level Heavenly Star realm, his progress over the past year was undeniable.

    ¡°Hoho, since it¡¯s Junior Brother Chen Fan, there¡¯s no problem!¡±

    That peak Heavenly Star realm disciple dismissed his earlier doubts. Although Chen Fan was only at the third level, cutting down a fifth or sixth-level Heavenly Star realm was easy for him¡ªhe was not someone to be measured by conventional standards.

    That disciple presented the avable missions. Chen Fan reviewed them and epted all of them¡ªmore than ten in total.

    The other disciples waiting to ept missions were shocked to see him take on so many without hesitation.

    Chen Fan left the True Martial Academy and started on his first mission. It was a request to kill someone known as Sang Chong, a notorious lecher from the eastern continent who had repeatedly abducted women and ruined their lives. No one had managed to capture him yet.

    Although Sang Chong was only at the sixth level, his movement art was excellent. Let alone a sixth-level expert, even a seventh-level expert couldn¡¯t catch up to him. An eighth-level Heavenly Star realm expert tried to capture him but failed.

    This mission wasmissioned to the True Martial Academy by the Butterfly Valley¡¯s surviving disciples.

    The Butterfly Valley was a small sect in the eastern continent,posed entirely of female disciples. While not particrly strong, their beauty had earned them some fame in the region.

    However, ten years ago, Sang Chong destroyed the Butterfly Valley. He abducted many disciples, including their Valley Master, Hua Mengdie, leading to the sect''s copse.

    Many in the eastern continent alone could kill Sang Chong. Unfortunately, the rewards were not enticing enough; those at the sixth or seventh-level Heavenly Star realm might not be a match for him, and experts at the eighth level and above showed little interest.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Fortunately, Chen Fan had an abundance of resources nowadays. So, just killing such an evildoer would be a great service. He also would feel no guilt in absorbing the Martial Dao Will of someone like him.

    In a valley in the eastern continent, the zing sun hung high in the sky, but its rays couldn¡¯t prate the thick miasma of peach blossoms that filled the area, creating an atmosphere of boundless desire.

    On the high tform above the valley, a middle-aged man dressed in loose robes wasughing wantonly.

    A beautiful woman writhed atop him, her face contorted in pain, yet she could not stop for even a moment.

    The beautiful woman was actually in the sixth-level Heavenly Star realm.

    ¡°Hahahaha, awesome!¡±

    He was none other than Sang Chong, the infamous lecher whose reputation had shaken the eastern continent.

    Below the high tform, many young women suffered at the hands of other demonic martial artists¡ªdisciples of Sang Chong. Ever since he escaped that pursuit back then, gradually fewer people came to hunt him.

    The weak couldn¡¯t match him, and the strong considered him more trouble than he was worth, allowing him to establish a sect known as the Peach Blossom Valley.

    This Peach Blossom Valley itself was a very remarkable treasure that could shrink freely and had infinite power.

    Soon, this beautiful woman¡¯s primeval Yin leaked out, leaving her limp at the side. Sang Chong sat up, crossed his legs, and began refining and absorbing the primeval Yin, showing remarkable improvement in his cultivation.

    Below, Sang Chong¡¯s numerous disciples all mored.

    ¡°Congrattions, Master, on your great improvement! You will advance into the Manifestation realm sooner orter.¡±

    A martial artist flew up and said carefully, ¡°Master, the junior brothers have long since grown tired of these bitches. Why don¡¯t we go catch more of them back?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Sang Chong rubbed his chin and said, ¡°My Yin Yang Peach Blossom Cultivation Technique is also at a critical juncture. Another thousand virgins and I will surely rise to the next level.¡±

    ¡°Master¡¯s skills and powerful martial arts are invincible!¡±

    Many people howled immediately, kissing up to him.

    ¡°Haha, fine. Isn¡¯t there a River Mountain City nearby? ughter all the men, and you can have as many women as you want,¡± Sang Chong said with augh, as if massacring a city was as simple as having a meal for him.

    The disciples below immediatelyughed lecherously.

    Suddenly, an icy voice came in from outside the valley.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, you really deserve a thousand deaths for your sins!¡±

    A shocking sword qi descended from the sky, tearing through everything. It split into countless wisps of sword qi and shot down from the sky.

    Immediately, those Peach Blossom Valley disciples were cut down and turned into blood mists. Miserable cries rang out endlessly as they disappeared without a trace.

    ¡°Who is it? Who dares toe cause trouble at my Peach Blossom Valley!¡±

    Sang Chong crushed the wisps of the sword qi shing toward him into pieces. His aura soared, his gaze cold as a de, overflowing with killing intent.

 Chapter 739 - Killing Sang Chong

    <h4>Chapter 739 - Killing Sang Chong</h4>

    ¡°Who is it? Who dares toe cause trouble at my Peach Blossom Valley!¡±

    Sang Chong crushed wisps of sword qi darting toward him. His aura erupted, rumbling as his killing intent overflowed.

    ¡°Me!¡±

    The neer broke through the peach blossom miasma and appeared in the valley. Chen Fan¡¯s gaze swept over the fair-skinned, naked bodies scattered on the ground, filling him with boundless rage.

    These perverts, ruining others'' lives, deserved nothing less than death.

    ¡°Who are you? A mere third-level Heavenly Star realm brat dares toe cause trouble here. You must be tired of living!¡±

    Seeing Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation, he assumed that, at best, Chen Fan could only challenge someone at the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm¡ªnot him.

    ¡°True Martial Academy, Chen Fan. I am here to send you on your way!¡± Chen Fan said indifferently, looking at Sang Chong as though he was already dead.

    Sang Chong¡¯s expression immediately changed when he heard the name.

    ¡°What? You¡¯re Chen Fan! Chen Fan from the True Martial Academy¡¯s Peerless Peak!¡±

    Sang Chong wasn¡¯t oblivious to the news of the eastern continent. Chen Fan¡¯s fame had spread far and wide, including to him.

    ¡°Shock won¡¯t cover the sins you¡¯vemitted. Today, a lecher will meet his end.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice was still indifferent and cold.

    ¡°Go to hell, you brat! Did you really think your fame in the eastern continent gives you the right to act recklessly in front of me? What a joke!¡± Sang Chong, momentarily shocked, bared his savage fangs and lunged at Chen Fan.

    He summoned his prized treasure¡ªthe Yin Yang Peach Blossom Fan. It was an exquisite fan that he had used for years.

    With a fierce swipe of his arm, a mass of peach blossom miasma surged forth, forming an inescapable that enveloped Chen Fan.

    The peach blossom miasma enveloped Chen Fan. The miasma morphed into the figure of a breathtaking woman whose shifting appearance made her beauty seem elusive.

    These were the tortured souls of the women Sang Chong had killed, trapped, and refined into his fan.

    ¡°Petty tricks. Break for me!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s cold smile was followed by a surge of sword qi that burst from him, shooting in all directions like a storm of des.

    His cultivation had not only advanced to the third-level Heavenly Star realm over the past year, but his mastery of the Green Lotus Sword Scripture had reached its tenthyer. Even a seventh-level Heavenly Star realm opponent no longer fazed him.

    His attack annihted the woman condensed from the peach blossom miasma. The inescapable miasma was also shed to pieces, leaking everywhere.

    Surprisingly, Sang Chong wasn¡¯t angry. Instead, he let out a loud, smugugh as if he''d been expecting it.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, not bad. Unfortunately, even though you¡¯ve broken through my Yin Yang Peach Blossom Formation, the miasma has already infected you. Your mind must be drowning in desires by now. Haha, fall, fall into depravity.¡±

    However, Chen Fan''s cold voice cut through his triumphantughter like a knife. "Is that so?"

    Sang Chong widened his eyes, feeling extremely shocked. ¡°What? How? You¡¯re not infected?¡±

    ¡°Infected? You expect me to fall for such a half-baked little trick? You overestimate yourself. You''ve caused harm for too long. Today, it ends."

    Chen Fan thrust out his palm, executing the Northern Star Reaper Hand. Three massive fingers, as solid as pirs of the heavens, descended with earth-shattering force. The air trembled, and the atmosphere seemed to copse under the sheer power of his attack.

    Sang Chong¡¯s expression darkened. He whipped his peach blossom fan fiercely. A projection of a mountain and river surged forth, filling the sky with its overwhelming force.

    ¡°Peach Blossom Mountain River!¡±

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Chen Fan¡¯s attack instantly neutralized the mountain and the river. The illusion dissolved into a cloud of primeval qi, powerless against the might of his strike.

    ¡°How is this possible? How could you be so strong!¡± Sang Chong shouted, his voiceced with panic.

    ¡°I¡¯m only a step away from reaching the seventh-level Heavenly Star realm. How am I no match for you?¡±

    He turned around to flee. Peach blossoms bloomed beneath his feet as he sprinted away at lightning speed, almost vanishing from the valley.

    Many hade to kill Sang Chong but none had seeded so far, all thanks to his cowardly nature. Whenever in danger, he would immediately flee.

    Thanks to his cowardly nature and absolute speed, he had been able to run away for so many years, living in freedom.

    ¡°Thinking of running in front of me? Howughable!¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly and gave chase. His Wings of Rain Dragon spread open, and he tore through space, moving faster than a stream of light.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Suddenly, the entire Peach Blossom Valley began to rumble, sting toward Chen Fan. Sang Chong had activated the Peach Blossom Valley to deal with Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan did not stop. sping his palm, he executed the Flood Dragon Fist Dragon, which turned into a flood dragon¡¯s w. It swiped through the heavens, violently sting onto the Peach Blossom Valley, breaking this Grade-6 treasure.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Sang Chong panicked as his treasure broke and fled in desperation.

    He resolved to escape the eastern continent and live a carefree life elsewhere if he survived this encounter with Chen Fan.

    Chen Fan was too terrifying. As long as he was hunted by him, Sang Chong would never know peace.

    Sang Chong moved swiftly, zipping through the void at a speed even an eighth-level Heavenly Star realm expert would struggle to match.

    Unfortunately for him, his opponent was Chen Fan this time.

    With the Wings of Rain Dragon boosting his speed, Chen Fan, like the rain dragon¡ªlord of the skies¡ªeasily overtook him.

    ¡°Sinful beast, go repent in hell!¡±

    Arge hand descended from the sky, locking the surrounding space. Sang Chong was trapped as if caught in a swamp, enveloped by the aura of death.

    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill me!¡±

    No one could fearlessly face death, not to mention the cowardly Sang Chong.

    Obviously, his pleas for mercy were useless.

    Therge golden hand fell with a boom. The earth rumbled, and thends shook. Spider web-like cracks spread everywhere on the ground, and dust clouds were set off, reaching a thousand feet high.

    Sang Chong¡¯s pleas for mercy also came to an abrupt end. He was smashed into a mist of blood, disappearing without a trace.

    Chen Fan didn¡¯t feel a hint of sympathy toward evildoers like the lecherous Sang Chong. Scum like him did not deserve pity in death. That was Chen Fan¡¯s attitude.

 Chapter 740 - Trouble in Hong Domain

    <h4>Chapter 740 - Trouble in Hong Domain</h4>

    After killing Sang Chong, Chen Fan returned to the Peach Blossom Valley.

    The valley was all but destroyed, and the peach blossom miasma that once filled the area had dissipated.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Without the peach blossom miasma clouding their minds, the women came back to their senses one after another.

    When Chen Fan returned, these women had already gotten dressed and were sobbing in each other¡¯s arms.

    ¡°Thank you, sir benefactor, for saving us from the abyss of suffering.¡±

    The women knelt in unison and bowed, expressing their gratitude.

    These women were all extremely beautiful, each with moving, tear-stained faces.

    Without Chen Fan''s intervention, their primeval Yin would have been drained, leaving them as dried corpses¡ªsomething they had witnessed many times before.

    ¡°No need to thank me. You should all quickly leave.¡± Chen Fan sighed.

    After these women left, Chen Fan blew up the evil treasure, Peach Blossom Valley, destroying it.

    ¡°What, Chen Fanpleted another high-difficulty mission!¡±

    ¡°The Eastern Continent Evil Fiend has also died in his hands!¡±

    ¡°How many missions does that make?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Time flew by, day after day. In what seemed like the blink of an eye, a year and a half had passed.

    During this period, Chen Fan was constantly eitherpleting missions or traveling to them.

    It had been a productive time for him, and over the course of that year and a half, hepleted numerous missions, amassing countless merit points.

    Those who knew of his achievements were envious, but no one dared to say anything openly.

    Chen Fan had earned all of this by risking his life. That wasn¡¯t an exaggeration¡ªhe had barely escaped death countless times.

    At first, the missions he took on were challenging but not unreasonable.

    However, as hepleted missions one after another, Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation also kept rising in the process. Thus, the difficulty of the missions he took on also increased further.

    When he was at the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm, the missions Chen Fan took on were already those that no Heavenly Star realm experts would dare to ept.

    The difficulty of those missions was so high that it could simply scare any Heavenly Star realm martial artist to death.

    Even a monster-ss genius like Chen Fan would only have a very slim chance of surviving, let alone ordinary people.

    Many of those involved in the missions were old monsters and old freaks who had cultivated for seven to eight hundred years, perhaps even over a thousand years. They all had terrifyingly powerful cultivation and deep foundations, existences that could fight above their level.

    It was already challenging for someone with extraordinarybat strength like Chen Fan to escape the grasp of these old devils.

    Chen Fan¡¯s shallow cultivation meant his foundation was not robust. The difference in strengthpared to those old-timers, who had spent centuries in their realms, was like night and day.

    At the very beginning, some old timers, seeing his youth and low cultivation, underestimated him. However, they quickly learned their mistake when he suddenly unleashed his immense strength and caught them off guard, killing them.

    News of Chen Fan taking on such missions spread, entering the ears of some other old monsters. They soon recognized him as a killing god specializing in hunting them.

    Consequently, those old monsters stopped underestimating him and treated him as a significant threat, bringing their full strength to bear.

    Chen Fan was beaten to a pulp on numerous asions, his tendons tearing apart, his bones cracking and his organs rupturing. If not for the boundless power of the Hegemonic Golden Body, he would have been blown away.

    On several asions, Chen Fan narrowly escaped death by relying on his fearless ferocity to take down his opponents, even while suffering severe injuries himself.

    Through these experiences, he learned that there was always someone stronger.

    Although the Peerless Peak imed to be unrivaled, it didn¡¯t mean no one could challenge them.

    Nevertheless, Chen Fan improved rapidly.

    These old monsters he had killed all had terrifyingly strong dao wills. His Chaos Will devoured all their wills, bing significantly stronger. That allowed Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation to soar from the third-level Heavenly Star realm to the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm in just a year and a half.

    Furthermore, it wasn¡¯t only his cultivation; the various martial arts he practiced also advanced rapidly through life-and-death battles. They broke through one after another, and his Hegemonic Golden Body had reached level 12.

    Chen Fan could confidently say that no one under the Manifestation realm could kill him!

    ¡°There¡¯s still half a year until the True Martial Assembly. I won¡¯t take on any more missions. I need to spend some time consolidating my training during this period and stabilize my foundation.¡±

    A light of wisdom flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes.

    His rapid breakthrough to the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm was due to the life-and-death battles he endured and his ability to devour others¡¯ Martial Dao Wills.

    His Martial Dao Will, Chaos, could embrace all things and uniquely fuse with other people¡¯s Martial Dao Wills to strengthen his own.

    If anyone else had attempted to break through two small realms in a year and a half, they would have been considered peerless geniuses for merely advancing by one level. The vast majority of people would have made no headway.

    Comprehending a Martial Dao Will was difficult, and strengthening one¡¯s Martial Dao Will afterprehending it was even more difficult.

    Many martial artists get stuck at the first-level Heavenly Star realm afterprehending a Martial Dao Will and entering the Heavenly Star realm.

    ¡°I have over a hundred million merit points now. Not using such a huge fortune and just letting it sit would be a waste.¡±

    Chen Fan shot into the sky, flying toward the Merit Hall to exchange for some metal-attributed treasures.

    He didn¡¯tck martial arts; he owned more than one or two heaven-tier martial arts. Enhancing his Martial Dao Will would take time, especially since he needed to focus on consolidating his cultivation. Naturally, he aimed to improve his Hegemonic Golden Body.

    As the overlord of the eastern continent, the True Martial Academy had a rich collection, so they were sure to have quite a few metal-attributed treasures. He could quickly improve the strength of his Hegemonic Golden Body after getting them.

    On this day, while practicing at Peerless Peak, Chen Fan suddenly saw Jian Qi descend, bringing someone with him¡ªLi Yao.

    Chen Fan stopped his practice and opened his eyes.

    ¡°Seventh Senior Brother.¡±

    Being the straightforward person that he was, Jian Qi said, ¡°He¡¯s looking for you for some urgent matters, so I brought him here directly.¡±

    ¡°Many thanks, Senior Brother.¡±

    ¡°You guys talk.¡± Jian Qi replied before leaving.

    Chen Fan nced at Li Yao, surprised to see that he had also advanced to the Heavenly Star realm. He truly deserved to be the top person of the Hong Domain¡¯s younger generation.

    Chen Fan asked, ¡°What brings you here?¡±

    Li Yao said, ¡°Something big has happened in the Hong Domain!¡±

 Chapter 741 - Return to the Hong Domain

    <h4>Chapter 741 - Return to the Hong Domain</h4>

    ¡°Something big has happened in the Hong Domain!¡±

    Li Yao¡¯s words exploded like a bomb, causing Chen Fan¡¯s aura to erupt.

    However, he quickly calmed his mind and withdrew his terrifying aura.

    Although itsted only a fraction of a second, it struck Li Yao¡ªa first-level Heavenly Star realm expert¡ªhard. His face went pale, and a low groan escaped his lips.

    ¡°Sorry.¡± Chen Fan apologized with a dark expression and asked, ¡°What happened?¡±

    He had left the Hong Domain five years ago to join the True Martial Academy. During that time, he advanced from the Golden Core realm to the Heavenly Star realm.

    No rocket could match his speed of progression.

    One would be called a genius if they could just advance to the Divine Nascent realm in that span.

    He could cultivate so quickly thanks to his talent and the opportunities he gained on the Ancient Trial Road.

    Apart from him, Li Yao, Qiu Yuexin, Xiao Zhen, and the others had also be significantly stronger.

    Back on the Hidden Dragon Ind, Li Yao alone had advanced to the Divine Nascent realm, while the others were at the eight or nine revolutions Golden Core realm.

    They had embarked on True Martial Academy¡¯s trail roads next. Although danger lurked at every step, all who survived and made it to the True Martial Academy improved dramatically within just a year.

    Li Yao quickly answered, ¡°You remember how the blood demons have overrun our domain, right? I just received a letter from my imperial father¡ªhe says the blood demons are wreaking havoc again. Many empires have already fallen under their assault."

    Hearing this, Chen Fan¡¯s eyes shone with a sharp gleam, and he said, ¡°Isn¡¯t Emperor Li a Heavenly Star realm expert? No matter how powerful the blood demons are, they shouldn¡¯t be a match for the Hong Domain¡¯s strongest, right?¡±

    Li Yao smiled bitterly and said, ¡°It¡¯s not that simple. Three thousand years ago, our domain¡¯s experts forced the Blood Demon Cave to go into hiding and live ignoble lives. We managed to kill almost all of their Heavenly Star realm experts, but those who survived with heavy injuries went into deep slumber to recuperate. Recently, the blood demons have stirred chaos, killing and collecting qi and blood to awaken those slumbering old-timers.¡±

    ¡°Have some old-timers from the Blood Demon Cave already awakened?¡±

    Li Yao nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. My father has broken through to the second-level Heavenly Star realm. However, he is still no match for these old-timers, even though they haven¡¯t fully regained their strength. Had some hermit experts of the Hong Domain not joined the fray, our domain would havepletely fallen by now. As those old-timers gradually recover, the Hong Domain is approaching a crisis.¡±

    Chen Fan wasn¡¯t surprised to hear about the hermit experts in the Hong Domain.

    Although that ancient war had weakened the Hong Domain significantly, leaving only Emperor Li as the known Heavenly Star realm expert, one would be a fool to believe that he was the only living expert there.

    These individuals cared little for fame or authority, choosing instead to hide deep in the mountains, fully dedicated to their martial paths. They only emerged due to the blood demons¡¯ rampage affecting them.

    ¡°The Hong Domain has formed an orthodox alliance to fight the Blood Demon Cave. However, the Blood Demon Cave is too powerful, putting the alliance at a disadvantage in both the numbers and the strength of Heavenly Star realm experts. So, I have no choice but toe find you.¡±

    Chen Fan had long since surpassed Li Yao, leaving him far behind.

    He had just released his aura earlier, and Li Yao, despite being a Heavenly Star realm expert, struggled to withstand it. This underscored the terrifying nature of Chen Fan¡¯s current strength.

    If Chen Fan took action, the Blood Demon Cave that threatened the entire Hong Domain would face a cmity.

    As one of the 108 branches of the Blood Heavenly Demon Sect, the Blood Demon Cave did not have any Manifestation realm experts, not even in the past. Thus, as long as Chen Fan stepped in, those old timers would be no match for Chen Fan.

    Realizing the Hong Domain¡¯s dire situation, Chen Fan asked, ¡°What¡¯s the current situation of the Great Chu Empire?¡±

    His primary concern was for his parents. If the Great Chu Empire had fallen, his family would be in danger.

    Li Yao was prepared and answered, ¡°ording to my information, the Great Chu Empire has not fallen yet, but its situation isn¡¯t optimistic. I also asked my imperial father to look into it. Your family members were brought to the Spring Autumn Sect when the blood cmity erupted, so they should be safe now.¡±

    Chen Fan let out a sigh of relief, but a fierce light ignited in his eyes, and killing intent brewed in his chest.

    ¡°Alright, there¡¯s no time to lose. We¡¯ll set off immediately and return to the Hong Domain. This time, I¡¯llpletely uproot this tumor known as the Blood Demon Cave!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s dense killing intent soared to the sky.

    ¡°Good, Xiao Zhen, Qiu Yuexin, Gongsun Zhong, and the others are just outside the Peerless Peak right now. They are also aware of the situation. They wille with us to resist the blood demons. We¡¯ll set off immediately,¡± Li Yao said.

    ¡°<i>Mmm</i>.¡± Chen Fan nodded. Then, he sent his powerful divine will out, informing his senior brothers and sister about the situation, and flew out of the Peerless Peak with Li Yao. They quickly saw Xiao Zhen and the others waiting outside.

    Their current cultivation levels were impressive. Although they hadn''t broken through to the Heavenly Star realm, they were all at the eighth or ninth level of the Divine Nascent realm

    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±

    Chen Fan waved his hand. He transformed into a blur, tearing through space like a stream of light as he flew into the distance.

    ......

    Hong Domain, Great Li Imperial Court:

    The atmosphere was oppressive in the imperial pce.

    Nowadays, the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s demons were wreaking havoc, affecting the entire Hong Domain.

    None of the empires¡¯ forces were spared. Even those hermits living in the mountains had no choice but toe out of istion.

    In the throne room, over ten figures stood, their powerful auras revealing their cultivation¡ªHeavenly Star realm.

    Despite their strength, their expressions were grim, and the atmosphere was suffocating.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Li Xun, any news from your side?¡± asked a white-bearded elder dressed in white, looking at a middle-aged man in golden imperial robes¡ªnone other than Emperor Li.

    Once the most renowned figure in the Hong Domain, he now ranked near the bottom of this formidable group.

    ¡°Elder Bai, Yao¡¯er has replied that he has already broken through to the Heavenly Star realm¡ª¡±

    ¡°Li Xun, your son entering the Heavenly Star realm is great news and all, but it would be pointless even if he returns. His strength is far from enough to solve our situation,¡± said a ck-robed man with an aquiline nose, interrupting Emperor Li.

    ¡°Hawk King, I haven¡¯t finished speaking yet. Yao¡¯er mentioned that he will being back with his fellow disciples from the True Martial Academy, and there will be experts among them who can resolve this blood cmity.¡± [1]

    1. Hawk King is a nickname based on his real name which will be mentioned in the next chapter. Thest word of his name is ¡®Ó¥¡¯, which means hawk or eagle. ?

 Chapter 742 - Come, No Need To Be Polite

    <h4>Chapter 742 - Come, No Need To Be Polite</h4>

    ¡°Oh? Is that true?¡±

    A fierce glint shone in the ck-robed man¡¯s sharp, hawk-like eyes.

    Emperor Li nodded and said, ¡°Absolutely true. Every disciple of the True Martial Academy is a peerless genius. With their help, we won¡¯t have to fear the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s remnants anymore.¡±

    Wanderer White Brow, the white-browed elder, was the strongest one here, being an eighth-level Heavenly Star realm expert. His presence alone had prevented the Hong Domain from falling to the blood demons long ago.

    He said, ¡°Then do you know the cultivation levels of the onesing to aid us? Xue Huang, one of the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s three former guardians, is at the ninth-level Heavenly Star realm.¡±

    ¡°Yao¡¯er didn¡¯t mention specifics, but I doubt they are weak,¡± Emperor Li replied.

    ¡°In that case, we can only wait.¡±

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The throne room remained heavy with gloom.

    Although the Hong Domain was several domains away from the academy, Chen Fan and the others could cover over ten kilometers in an instant. It took them only a week to reach the Hong Domain¡¯s territory.

    A scene of devastation entered their eyes.

    At the border city, Chen Fan and the others only saw smoke and dried corpses everywhere. The victims'' deaths were more gruesome than anything Chen Fan had witnessed during his earlier hunts for the blood bandits in the northwesternnds.

    A dense death qi enveloped the entire border city. There wasn¡¯t a single living person around.

    ¡°Damn it! These bastards all deserve to die!¡±

    Xiao Zhen and the others were enraged, and their auras erupted uncontrobly.

    ¡°There are blood demon remnants inside!¡± Li Yao''s sharp gaze pierced the fog, spotting a squad hiding in the city''s depths.

    ¡°Then what are we waiting for? ughter these bastards!¡±

    Xiao Zhen wasted no time, turning into a blur as he tore through the death qi. Angry shouts echoed before he returned, bloodstained from the battle.

    With a gloomy expression, he said, ¡°I got some intel. Arge group of blood demons are making their way toward the Blue Moon Empire, led by a Heavenly Star realm blood demon expert.¡±

    The Blue Moon Empire, a first-rate nation in the Hong Domain, boasted strong forces, including ninth-level Divine Nascent experts. But against a Heavenly Star realm blood demon, they stood no chance.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go. To the Blue Moon Empire!¡± Chen Fan decided, and the group immediately kicked off the ground.

    A first-level Heavenly Star realm blood demon was truly like livestock to Chen Fan now.

    By the time the blood demon army reached the Blue Moon Empire, Chen Fan had already caught up. Wasting no time, he unleashed a killing spree. Chen Fan dealt with the Heavenly Star realm blood demon with a single flick of his finger, its mind and soul crushed in an instant.

    In just an incense stick¡¯s worth of time, Chen Fan had massacred thousands of blood demons. The ground ran red with rivers of blood.

    Meanwhile, the Blue Moon Empire, who had braced themselves for a desperate battle, stood frozen in shock, watching the one-sided massacre outside their city gates. There was no fight left for them.

    Chen Fan and the others did not waste any time at the Blue Moon Empire. After eradicating this blood demon army, they flew across the Blue Moon Empire, heading toward the Great Li Imperial Court.

    The throne room:

    ¡°Reporting!¡±

    An armored officer rushed in, half-kneeling as he delivered the grim news. ¡°News hase from the frontline. The Iron Wave Empire is overthrown!¡±

    Emperor Li, Wanderer White Brow, and the others¡¯ eyes sank.

    Another empire lost to the blood demons. The fate of its people was unimaginable.

    Suddenly, wind-breaking noises rang out.

    <i>Swish, swish, swish!</i>

    A groupnded outside the throne room and walked in directly.

    Emperor Li was just about to berate these people, but when he saw who had just entered, his face immediately lit up in joy.

    ¡°Yao¡¯er!¡±

    ¡°Imperial Father,¡± Li Yao greeted him. ¡°They are my fellow disciples from my academy. They all hail from the Hong Domain, and havee back to help quell the ongoing blood cmity in the Hong Domain.¡±

    Before anyone could react, a cold, thunderous snort broke through the room.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡±

    Hawk King said coldly, ¡°Li Xun, you said your son has invited experts from the True Martial Academy. They are the ones?¡±

    Not only Hawk King, but Wanderer White Brow and the others also turned cold when they saw through Chen Fan, Xiao Zhen, and the rest''s cultivation levels.

    They had expected Li Yao to bring experts from the True Martial Academy, but instead, this group of trash returned.

    The strongest among them, Chen Fan, was only in the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm.

    While that wasn¡¯t bad, it only ced him around the middle ranks, offering little help in resolving the Hong Domain¡¯s current predicament.

    Emperor Li noticed this as well and felt somewhat embarrassed.

    ¡°This...¡± He was also at a loss for words.

    ¡°What do you mean by this? Are you looking down on us?¡± Xiao Zhen red at Hawk King.

    Hawk King said with disdain, ¡°Yes, I am. A ninth-level Divine Nascent brat dares to act insolently in front of me, a seventh-level Heavenly Star expert? If you weren¡¯t True Martial Academy disciples, I would¡¯ve crushed you on the spot for that attitude."

    Chen Fan interrupted with a mocking tone, ¡°Hoho, how arrogant of someone who''s only at the seventh-level Heavenly Star realm."

    ¡°Brat, what did you say!¡±

    Hawk King stared at Chen Fan with his sharp gaze. A terrifying aura erupted from him that enveloped Chen Fan. An iciness flickered in his eyes.

    ¡°What, are you deaf and need me to repeat myself? Need me to repeat it? I¡¯ve killed countless trash like you. I wonder where you found the nerve to act so boldly in front of me,¡± Chen Fan said coldly.

    Hawk Kingughed from extreme anger. A cold whirlwind swept out. The air in the throne room instantly froze.

    ¡°Good, good, good!

    ¡°Brat, did you think you could throw a tantrum in front of me, Yuan Hengying, just because you¡¯re a disciple of the True Martial Academy? Fine, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson today and let you know that this world is reigned by strength!¡±

    As Yuan Hengying prepared to strike Chen Fan, ready to teach him a harsh lesson and show him the vastness of heaven and earth, Emperor Li¡¯s expression changed.

    ¡°Hold on, Hawk King!¡± Emperor Li¡¯s expression changed at the sight and said, ¡°Everyone knows that the disciples of the True Martial Academy are dragons and phoenixes among men, prides of heaven. It''s natural for them to be a bit uninhibited. There¡¯s no need for you to lower yourself. Moreover, the Hong Domain is currently facing a huge crisis. We need to unite against the blood demons. This little brother''s cultivation is not bad, and we can¡¯t afford to argue among ourselves now."

    Yuan Hengying responded coldly, "If you want me to stop, this brat needs to apologize andpensate me for his insult. Otherwise, I won¡¯t hold back."

    Chen Fan hooked his finger and said, ¡°Come, no need to be polite.¡±

 Chapter 743 - Spring Autumn Sect in Desperate Straits

    <h4>Chapter 743 - Spring Autumn Sect in Desperate Straits</h4>

    Chen Fan hooked his finger and said, ¡°Come, no need to be polite.¡±

    His eyes were filled with disdain,pletely ignoring the seventh-level Heavenly Star realm expert.

    His contemptuous attitude sent Yuan Hengying flying into a rage. He shouted angrily, ¡°Little bastard, you¡¯re courting death. What you¡¯re doing is courting death!¡±

    Immediately, an even more terrifying aura erupted and swept out, carrying icy killing intent as Yuan Hengying mercilessly sent a palm strike sting toward Chen Fan.

    <i>Kree!</i>

    The cry of a hawk echoed as Yuan Hengying''s strike transformed into a blood-colored hawk, its savage, berserk aura swiping ferociously at Chen Fan.

    ¡°Hawk King...¡±

    Emperor Li¡¯s expression changed drastically.

    Yuan Hengying¡¯s expression was ice-cold, overflowing with killing intent. He said coldly, ¡°Li Xun, don¡¯t me me for not giving you face. This brat was too arrogant and too foolish to refuse a lifeline."

    ¡°This...¡±

    Emperor Li tried to intervene, but Li Yao stopped him with a voice transmission. ¡°No need to worry, Imperial Father. Just watch, it¡¯ll be fine.¡±

    ¡°<i>Hmm</i>?¡± Emperor Li was surprised by Li Yao¡¯s calm confidence.

    No matter how he looked at it, Chen Fan was at an absolute disadvantage. Although he was strong, he was nowhere near strong enough to take on Yuan Hengying. Why was Li Yao so certain?

    ¡°Yao¡¯er, he is...¡±

    ¡°Imperial Father, he is Chen Fan!¡±

    ¡°Chen Fan!¡± Emperor Li¡¯s shock was immediate.

    Chen Fan¡¯s name had already spread throughout the eastern continent, and even the remote Hong Domain had heard of him. As its ruler, Emperor Li was no exception.

    ¡°Little Bastard, today I¡¯ll teach you a lesson on the True Martial Academy¡¯s behalf and show you the vastness of heaven and earth. This will save you from bringing shame to the academy in the future!"

    Yuan Hengying swooped down like a hawk, his aura ferocious.

    Wanderer White Brow and the others did not try to stop him, as they also felt dissatisfied. Chen Fan¡¯s arrogance warranted a lesson to prevent him from defying orders and causing trouble because of his status as a True Martial Academy disciple.

    ¡°Teach me a lesson? You?¡± Chen Fan smiled coldly, a sharp glint in his eyes. He stepped forward, raised his arm, and reached for Yuan Hengying.

    <i>Crack, crack!</i>

    The air crackled as the blood-colored hawk shattered in Chen Fan''s grasp.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± He unleashed a light palm strike, causing the entire space to tremble, and dust from the beams above rained down.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    Yuan Hengying had no power to resist Chen Fan¡¯s strike. He flew back like a ragged bup sack, spewing blood, and crashed to the floor, unable to get back up on his feet. His face was filled with horror.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, who else is still unconvinced? Step forward!¡± Chen Fan stood there, his voice resounding in all directions.

    Everyone was petrified.

    Unbelievably, Yuan Hengying had been defeated instantly.

    Not even Wanderer White Brow¡ªan eighth-level Heavenly Star realm expert¡ªcould do that. Yet this kid had done so effortlessly.

    Everyone felt a deep sense of shock.

    Chen Fan defeated Yuan Hengying easily and instantly. If he had the intention to kill, Yuan Hengying would have died tragically on the spot.

    Suddenly, apuse erupted from Emperor Li. He approached with a broad smile and said, ¡°As expected of Chen Fan, the man whose name shook the eastern continent. Indeed, heroese from the youth.¡±

    <i>p, p, p...</i>

    ¡°Chen Fan? What! THAT Chen Fan? From the Peerless Peak?¡± Wanderer White Brow, despite living deep in the mountains, was startled by Emperor Li¡¯s words.

    When it came to the most famous figure of the younger generation in the eastern continent, it was undoubtedly Chen Fan.

    Still lying on the ground, Yuan Hengying was equally shocked. A bitter smile spread across his face. Losing to the Peerless Peak¡¯s Chen Fan was hardly shameful.

    Chen Fan''s exploits had long spread across the eastern continent.

    A seventh-level Heavenly Star realm martial artist like him acted presumptuously in front of Chen Fan. He couldn¡¯t me anyone for being taught a lesson.

    Chen Fan could already kill sixth-level Heavenly Star realm demons when he was at the second-level Heavenly Star realm. Now that Chen Fan was at the fifth level, Yuan Hengying¡¯s measly cultivation was simply not enough.

    Emperor Li smiled and said, ¡°With Chen Fan with us, those blood demons can¡¯t stir any huge waves.¡±

    Wanderer White Brow and the others also nodded.

    Despite their centuries of experience, the world valued strength over longevity.

    Even Wanderer White Brow would readily admit to not being a match for Chen Fan.

    Now that Chen Fan had returned to the Hong Domain, it was as Emperor Li said¡ªthe blood demons posed no threat.

    ¡°Alright, I returned topletely get rid of the remnants of the Blood Demon Cave. You people go find the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s nest, while I head to the Great Chu Empire. Once you find it, we¡¯ll storm their hideout and wipe them out in one fell swoop!¡± Chen Fan dered before departing.

    The Great Chu Empire:

    As the blood cmity erupted, the entire Hong Domain was in a state of devastation. No nation escaped unscathed.

    With the awakening of the old timers of the Blood Demon Cave, the demonic beings were nning on overthrowing the Hong Domain and establishing it as their base

    Though the Great Chu Empire had notpletely fallen, it had lost more than half its territory.

    The Great Chu Empire had a middle-lower ranking among the thirty-six nations in terms of strength. Even the strongest blood demons invading the Great Chu Empire were only at the fifth-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Currently, under the lead of a fifth-level Divine Nascent realm blood demon, the army was sweeping through the Great Chu Empire with unstoppable momentum. Even the royal family had fallenpletely, bing mereckeys of the blood demons.

    Many sects within the Great Chu Empire suffered a simr fate, with over half of them annihted. In the Qingyang Mountain Range, the blood demon army had surrounded the city, tightening its grip.

    The four great sects of the Qingyang Mountain Range had joined forces and formed a defensive front. However, the blood cmity proved far more devastating than thest.

    The blood demon army had breached three of the great sects, transforming them into a purgatory of despair and erasing them from history.

    Only the Spring Autumn Sect remained, fighting to the bitter end, yet they were rapidly approaching their crisis.

    Fear and despair spread within the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The blood demon army had them with threeyers of siege, leaving no escape route.

    A year ago, Wei Buyu had broken through to the Divine Nascent realm with the help of the Paramita Divine Flower, and the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s overall strength had risen greatly.

    With three Divine Nascent realm powerhouses overseeing them, the sect ranked among the top ten in the Great Chu Empire.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, facing the relentless assault of the blood demon army, even three Divine Nascent realm powerhouses were insufficient.

    The Spring Autumn Sect now stood on the precipice of life and death.

 Chapter 744 - The Spring Autumn Sectâ€™s Difficult Situation

    <h4>Chapter 744 - The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Difficult Situation</h4>

    Spring Autumn Sect:

    It had long since lost its prosperity and majesty.

    Devastation marked thends, with traces of intense battles evident everywhere. Once a top-tier sect in the Great Chu Empire for thousands of years, it now stood riddled with holes.

    The blood cmity had thrown the entire Hong Domain into an abyss of suffering, and the Great Chu Empire was no exception.

    Many of its elite powers had copsed, with even the royal n falling to the blood demons and bing theirckeys. More than half of the nation''s territory had been consumed by this disaster, leaving no forces untouched.

    The blood cmity led to the destruction of numerous sects that had stood tall for millenniums. A river of blood flowed, with countless injured and dead.

    They had gathered to create several fronts to fight the demons.

    The remaining forces across the Great Chu Empire had gathered to create numerous fronts to fight the demons.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was one of these gathering points.

    The survivors of the three great sects¡ªFloating Cloud Sword Sect, Mountain River Sect, and Burning Incense Valley¡ªand the remnants of several other top-tier sects had all gathered at the Spring Autumn Sect.

    The number of Divine Nascent realm experts here was in the double digits. Despite the presence of so many experts, there was still an air of fear and despair in the sect.

    This unease affected not just the lower-ranking disciples but also the dozen or so Divine Nascent realm experts.

    Five years ago, the blood demons ravaged the Great Chu Empire but suffered heavy casualties due to the orthodox alliance''s crackdown, getting nearly wiped out.

    However, the blood demons resurfaced and had swept through the Great Chu Empire with even greater momentum. Not a single force could withstand the blood demon army, which surged like a flood or a ferocious beast.

    This blood cmity filled everyone with terror.

    The entire Hong Domain suffered from the blood demons¡¯ rampage, putting even its rulers, the Great Li Imperial Court, in imminent danger.

    An enormous, bowl-like shield of light shrouded the Spring Autumn Sect. The light shield radiated strong and majestic energy, instilling a sense of security among the people.

    This was the Sect Protecting Grand Formation of the Spring Autumn Sect.

    Inside the sect, the people¡¯s clothes were stained with blood, and they looked fatigued.

    Just three days ago, they had repelled an attack from the blood demon army, but this victory brought no joy. Instead, a heavy atmosphere of despair lingered.

    Repelling the army did not mean they had defeated it.

    The blood demon army was currently outside the Spring Autumn Sect, having surrounded the sectpletely. They mightunch another fierce attack at any moment.

    Eachrge battle inflicted significant losses on the sect.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    They could repel the blood demons¡¯ attacks once, twice, or thrice, but what about ten, twenty, or thirty times?

    The Spring Autumn Sect now stood like a lone ind, surrounded by the blood demon army, with all contact with the outside world severed.

    With each battle, the Spring Autumn Sect suffered heavy losses, while the blood demon army continued to swell with an endless influx of demonic beings.

    The sect faced increasingly dire danger.

    Many people were clear that the blood demon army was still mobilizing its forces, and the sect likely wouldn¡¯t survive the next attack.

    About a dozen Divine Nascent realms had gathered in the sect¡¯s main hall, but gloom and sorrow enveloped them.

    ¡°The blood cmity this time, I¡¯m afraid...¡± Feng Baiyu finally broke the silence, his voice heavy with despair. ¡°We won¡¯t make it though.¡±

    The atmosphere became even heavier and more depressing.

    The blood demon army was wreaking havoc in the Great Chu Empire, and no one could stop them.

    As several other strongholds fell one after another, the blood demons grew in numbers, including more Divine Nascent realm experts.

    A silver-robed elder with a long mustache and a sage-like appearance said, ¡°Brother Feng, how many Divine Nascent realm experts¡¯ attacks can the Protecting Grand Formation withstand?¡±

    Feng Baiyu answered, ¡°Fifteen at most.¡±

    The crowd present fell silent again.

    There were twelve blood demon powerhouses stationed outside the Spring Autumn Sect. Three more and the sect would be breached.

    ¡°Everyone, in this desperate situation, we can only fight till our deaths, dragging as many of those demons down with us as possible!¡± Wei Buyu said fervently.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Even if we have to die, we¡¯ll take a chunk of flesh from these demonic beings!"

    The atmosphere in the hall immediately changed from a heavy one to a hot-blooded one.

    They had no way to retreat.

    The atmosphere in the hall shifted from heavy to fiery. With no way to retreat, they resolved to fight to the death, determined to make the blood demons pay dearly for their lives!

    <i>Woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo!</i>

    Suddenly, the ear-piercing rm echoed through the Spring Autumn Sect. Feng Baiyu and the others¡¯ expressions changed dramatically. They immediately took flight and raced outside.

    Blood qi filled the skies outside, and a sea of blood surged. The blood demons swarmed like locusts, covering heaven and earth and instilling despair in everyone.

    The blood demon army wasunching another wave of attack!

    Panic erupted within the quiet Spring Autumn Sect.

    Feng Baiyu and the others unleashed their auras and took to the skies. A pressure spread out, and their shouts shook the heavens.

    ¡°Everyone, don¡¯t panic. Get into your positions and prepare for battle!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, Feng Baiyu, your sect will definitely fall this time!¡±

    In the void outside the sect, several blood demon powerhouses with powerful auras appeared, with seas of blood tumbling around them. A heavy pressure emanated from them, instilling a profound sense of oppression.

    A third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demon expert stepped forward. He looked at the Sect Protecting Grand Formation and curled his lips. ¡°This tortoiseshell shall break today!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, break this tortoise shell and charge into the Spring Autumn Sect. Let a river of blood flow and leave no one alive!"

    Immediately, the blood demon army roared with imposing momentum.

    Compared to the blood demon army¡¯s aggressiveness, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side was gloomy.

    Fifteen blood demon powerhouses lined up in a row and began bombarding the Sect Protecting Grand Formation.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Numerous streaks of terrifying blood light ravaged heaven and earth, crossing the sky and attacking the light shield. The shield immediately shook intensely.

    Cracking sounds echoed as the Sect Protecting Grand Formation, overwhelmed by the attacks of fifteen blood demon powerhouses, began to fail.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack. Crack, crack, crack...</i>

    ¡°The Sect Protecting Grand Formation is about to break!¡±

    Feng Baiyu and the others¡¯ eyes shrank.

    ¡°Fight!¡±

    ¡°Fight!¡±

    ¡°Fight!¡±

    The previously silent crowd ignited with fervor. Anger and determination shone in their eyes as their fighting spirit erupted.

    The Sect Protecting Grand Formation shattered.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°Kill!¡± shouted a third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demonmander, prompting the blood demon army to charge the Spring Autumn Sect.

 Chapter 745 - Saber and Sword, Blood and Fire

    <h4>Chapter 745 - Saber and Sword, Blood and Fire</h4>

    The bombardment from the fifteen blood demon powerhouses cracked the Sect Protecting Grand Formation of the Spring Autumn Sect. It was on the verge of copse.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack.</i>

    The crowd¡¯s hearts sank slightly.

    Feng Baiyu sighed and said with a low voice, ¡°Everyone, prepare yourselves for the worst!¡±

    Sorrow filled his eyes; he never expected to see the Spring Autumn Sect meet its end on his watch.

    With a rumble, the Sect Protecting Grand Formation shattered.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The surrounding nine towering peaks, which had pierced the sky, copsed the moment the formation was breached.

    ¡°Kill!¡± ordered a third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demonmander.

    The blood demon army, long prepared, charged toward the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s defenders, overwhelming them with a murderous aura that shook the heavens.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Feng Baiyu¡¯s eyes also shone with ferocity, his shout resounding through heaven and earth. His aura instantly boiled over, and he executed the Noble Bloodshed Technique. His cultivation aura soared to the third-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Feng Baiyu had advanced to the second-level Divine Nascent realm a year ago, making him the strongest on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side.

    However, facing a third-level Divine Nascent realm expert from the blood demon army, he had no choice but to employ the Noble Bloodshed Technique to fight the demon.

    Feng Baiyu rushed toward that third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demonmander.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Feng Baiyu, let¡¯s see how long your Noble Bloodshed Techniquests!!¡± The blood demonmanderughed out loud, his momentum unstoppable. Crashing noises rang out behind him. A sea of blood appeared, surging toward Feng Baiyu like a tsunami.

    ¡°Everyone, kill!¡± Cold light also shone in High Elder Yun Tu¡¯s eyes. He pped his palm on his chest, simrly executing the Noble Bloodshed Technique. His cultivation swelled to the second-level Divine Nascent realm.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    All the Divine Nascent realm powerhouses on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s sides used the Noble Bloodshed Technique nearly simultaneously to get greater power for a short period. Outnumbered and outmatched by the blood demon army, they had no chance without this technique.

    Currently, they could only focus on one thought: Kill!

    ¡°My fellow sect members, today our sect faces a life-and-death crisis. Cast aside all doubts and... kill!¡± shouted a holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect. Murderous qi rose to the sky as he charged directly into the advancing blood demon army.

    ¡°Kill! Live and die with the sect!¡±

    ¡°Kill, kill all these demonic beings!¡±

    <i>Swish, swish, swish...</i>

    Immediately, on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side, from the elders and executives to the outer sect disciples, everyone let out cries that seemed to originate from their souls. Their auras soared, filling the sky with fierce determination.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The troops on both sides collided. It seemed like two massive waves had crashed into each other¡ªno, it was like two stars smashing into each other. Fierce qi currents swept out at once, destroying mountains and shaking thends.

    ¡°Activate the war fortresses!¡± [1]

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The holy disciples¡¯ war fortresses in the Spring Autumn Sect were activated. They crushed through the void, the towering peaks charged forth like moving tanks, crushing arge swathe of blood demons to death.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    However, a high-level Core Formation realm blood demon expert immediately took action. He unleashed a palm that darkened the sky, as if overturning the heavens. The attack struck a war fortress, shattering it to pieces and inflicting heavy casualties.

    ¡°Kill, kill, kill!¡±

    However, the Spring Autumn Sect members had cast aside all concerns, consumed by the frenzy of battle.

    They charged into the fray, ruthlessly sting the blood demon army without hesitation, engaging in chaotic fights on the ground, in the air, and even high above the nine heavens.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± Miserable screams rang out.

    With each passing moment, more people died. Broken limbs littered the battlefield. Fresh blood rained down, a grim mix from both the blood demons and the Spring Autumn Sect.

    ¡°Hahahaha, kill!¡± A figure darted through the blood demon army, sword qi rampaging across with unparalleled sharpness.

    This person turned out to be Qin Jian, the young patriarch of the former number-one n in the imperial city.

    On Qin Jian and Nangong Qingshuang¡¯s wedding day, Chen Fan and Chen Zhengqing hade to settle old debts, plunging the Qin n from glory to ruin. In the aftermath, Qin Jian and his family sought refuge in the royal pce.

    The royal n of the Great Chu Empire had long since fallen, reduced tockeys of the blood demon army. Qin Jian had also embraced the dark path, bing one of them.

    Back then, Qin Jian was only in the fourth or fifth-level Yuanfu realm; now, he was a terrifying seventh-level Core Formation realm expert. His rise was nothing short of unimaginable.

    Qin Jian split a Spring Autumn Sect holy disciple in half with a stroke of his sword, his murderous qi reaching the sky as he shouted furiously, ¡°Die! Everyone rted to Chen Fan has to die! Chen Zhengqing, Nangong Yue, where are they? Come out and receive your death!¡±

    Qin Jian hated Chen Fan to the bones. If not for him, his life would not have be so miserable.

    At the pinnacle of his pride and glory, Chen Fan had crushed Qin Jian, sending him spiraling into the depths of despair, transforming him into a mere joke.

    He hated Chen Fan!

    But it wasn¡¯t just Chen Fan; he loathed everyone connected to him.

    The burning desire to kill all who bore Chen Fan¡¯s name consumed him. Yet, how could the weak him defeat the mighty Chen Fan? So, he joined the dark side.

    He became a blood demon. By relying on killing people and sucking their blood, he reached his current level in just a few years.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Today, he would level the Spring Autumn Sect with the blood demon army and kill Chen Fan¡¯s parents to vent the hatred in his heart.

    ¡°Hahahaha, kill, kill, kill!¡±

    No one could stop Qin Jian¡¯s reckless killing spree. Many Spring Autumn Sect disciples died tragically under his sword. He was extremely crazed, like an evil spirit.

    On the other side, Chen Zhengqing, Nangong Yue, Nangong Baxiong, and the others were also doing their best to kill their enemies.

    Wei Buyu had brought them to the Spring Autumn Sect when the blood cmity erupted.

    Now, as the sect faced annihtion, they had no choice but to join the battlefield and confront the encroaching darkness.

    When the nest is overturned, would the eggs be safe?

    <i>Boom, boom. Rumble!</i>

    High in the sky, above the nine heavens, many Divine Nascent realm powerhouses were shing fiercely. Terrifying shockwaves swept out wildly, causing heaven and earth to change colors as they swept across the sky and down to the ground.

    Below, the blood demon army and the people on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side were also fighting fiercely. All sorts of attacks were sting in the air. Sounds of explosions rang out non-stop like firecrackers.

    Thends were long since devastated.

    The Spring Autumn Sect was also badly damaged.

    Corpses piled up like a mountain. Fresh blood fell like torrential rain.

    No one retreated because there was no longer any path of retreat.

    The only choice was to kill. Carve a way out by killing!

    1. Reminder, the holy disciples¡¯ personal cultivation peaks can be used as a war fortress. ?

 Chapter 746 - Palm Descends from the Sky

    <h4>Chapter 746 - Palm Descends from the Sky</h4>

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Heaven and earth trembled as torrents of blood rained down. Tempestuous storms ravaged the sky andnd, mirroring the chaos of battle.

    Desperation filled the air.

    The scene could only be described as dire.

    Confronted by a blood demon army that was two to three times their number, the Spring Autumn Sect members stood resolute, fighting with everything they had, heedless of the consequences.

    They had no retreat; behind themy an abyss. Cornered, their only option was to fight to the death.

    Kill!

    Carve a way out by killing!

    Severed limbs littered the ground, blood pooling like ake. The horrific sight churned the stomach, a testament to the brutality unfolding.

    The earth split, and mountains crumbled. All sorts of powerful cultivation techniques collided fiercely.

    Miserable screams mingled with battle cries, creating a haunting symphony of despair.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡±

    A wave of bodies copsed, each life extinguished as the harvest of death continued unabated.

    ¡°Kill! Annihte these soulless demons!¡±

    Yue Zhongtian, a holy disciple of the Spring Autumn Sect, radiated power. He had ascended to the seventh-level Core Formation realm, so he stood among the battlefield¡¯s elite.

    Layers of storm surged from him, drawing in blood demons and tearing them to shreds.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    A terrifying streak of sword qi tore through the sky suddenly, slicing through the chaos. It imed several lives from the Spring Autumn Sect, its sharpness unfaltering, aimed directly at Yue Zhongtian, threatening to cleave him.

    ¡°Annihte!¡± Yue Zhongtian roared as he punched out. The surrounding air copsed, shattering the fierce sword qi into fragments.

    However, an even fiercer sword qi¡ªthat transformed into a of swords¡ªdescended to dice Yue Zhongtian into countless pieces.

    It was Qin Jian. He traveled across the air, moving his sword like he was dancing. Each streak of sword qi he unleashed imed a life as he focused his attention on Yue Zhongtian.

    However, Yue Zhongtian did not panic and repeatedly struck out with his palms.

    Numerous palm seals flew out, shaking heaven and earth, bombarding the of swords sweeping down at him. The attack ripped the apart.

    ¡°Kill!¡± Shocking killing intent shot out of Yue Zhongtian¡¯s eyes. He strode forward, meeting Qin Jian head-on. A huge, intense battle broke out.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Terrifying collisions yed out. The noise rose and fell in session.

    The overwhelming blood qi covered an area of fifty thousand kilometers.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Several war fortresses barreled through the void, producing loud booms as their terrifying powers erupted, threatening to shatter space itself.

    On the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side, everyone¡ªdisciples and participants from other sects alike¡ªfought with everything they had, either igniting their golden cores or employing the Noble Bloodshed Technique.

    They poured their lives into halting the blood demon army''s advance, determined to take down a few demons even at the cost of their own lives.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable scream pierced the chaos as a blood demon tore off one of Nangong Baxiong¡¯s arms, sending fresh blood spurting wildly.

    These blood demons besieging Nangong Baxiong pressed to their advantage, executing big killing moves in unison. Cruel smiles appeared on their faces as they tried to st Nangong Baxiong into a million pieces.

    ¡°Keke, go to hell!¡±

    Thankfully, Nangong Yue, Nangong Qingtian, Chen Zhengqing, and the others made their moves. They sent attacks flying over to this group of blood demons, barely saving Nangong Baxiong.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    ¡°Big Brother, how are you?¡± asked Nangong Yue.

    Nangong Baxiong furrowed his brow tightly, shook his head, and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine, it¡¯s just an arm. I won¡¯t die. Be careful!¡±

    Small battles were happening everywhere in this war and death was ubiquitous.

    Although the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side was fearless, fighting one against many, there were just too many blood demons. A sea of ants could bite an elephant to death; unfortunately, the Spring Autumn Sect wasn¡¯t even as strong as the elephant in this analogy.

    Many Spring Autumn Sect members tragically died.

    The battles of the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s disciples and elders were on the brink of copse.

    Meanwhile, in the skies above, nearly thirty Divine Nascent realm powerhouses fought fiercely.

    Feng Baiyu¡¯s white robe had long since turned crimson. Even though he had used the Noble Bloodshed Technique to boost his cultivation, he struggled against a genuine third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demon expert. His severe injuries left him fighting for survival.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    The blood demonmander executed the Blood Sea Flips the Heaven. Feng Baiyu was sent flying ten thousand meters away, spewing blood along the way. A blood-colored palm print appeared on his chest, and his aura began to wane.

    ¡°Give up, Feng Baiyu. No matter how hard you struggle, you can¡¯t change the ending! Our Blood Demon Cave will rule the Hong Domain from now on! You people are still somewhat useful. If you know what¡¯s good for you, submit to us. Let me nt the Blood Servant Seal on you, be a blood servant, and conquer thends for our Blood Demon Cave. That way, you can still live, albeit an ignoble existence. Otherwise, today shall be yourst!¡±

    The blood demonmander smiled, looking at Feng Baiyu.

    Although the Blood Demon Cave was powerful, Divine Nascent realm experts were still the corebat forces. Converting Feng Baiyu and the others would be a valuable option for conquering thends.

    ¡°<i>Ptooi</i>!¡±

    Feng Baiyu took a deep breath, unfazed by the offer. He executed a secret art to stimte his potential, and his declining aura instantly surged back to its peak as he charged toward the blood demonmander again.

    ¡°What an obstinate fellow. You leave me with no choice but to ughter you people!¡± The blood demonmander smiled cruelly, thick killing intent showing in his eyes.

    ¡°Ah!¡± A miserable cry echoed from above the nine heavens as a Divine Nascent realm expert exploded, dissolving into a mist of blood, leaving only his divine nascent in the void, filled with terror.

    The Divine Nascent realm expert was from the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side. Facing two blood demon powerhouses¡¯ siege, he stood no chance. His loss was a devastating blow to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    A blood demon unleashed a palm strike. A terrifying blood wave roared, annihting this Divine Nascent realm expert¡¯s divine nascent.

    A Divine Nascent realm powerhouse had perished on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side.

    ¡°Hahahaha, kill!¡± Those two blood demon powerhousesughed maniacally before splitting off to engage in separate battlefields.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Terrifying fluctuations erupted, followed by the angry roars of Divine Nascent realm powerhouses ringing out non-stop.

    Below, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side was pushed back repeatedly.

    The remaining members found themselves surrounded, with blood demons relentlessly rushing in from all directions, causing experts to die one after another.

    ¡°Does the heavens want to erase our Spring Autumn Sect?¡± Wang Hui let out a furious roar of indignation. He burst into mes and charged toward a third-level Core Formation realm blood demon to take him down with him. [1]

    However, the gap was simply too big. Although they faced mutual destruction, it did nothing to improve the situation.

    Above the nine heavens, another Divine Nascent realm powerhouse died.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The people on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side were all in absolute despair.

    ¡°Die!¡± An eighth-level Core Formation realm blood demon expert struck out with a palm. Arge, blood-colored hand sted toward Nangong Yue, Chen Zhengqing, and the others with iparably terrifying momentum.

    Their expressions shifted drastically as they realized they could not withstand the blood demon expert¡¯s attack; the disparity in strength was overwhelming. They could only watch as the blood palm fell.

    ¡°Xiaoyue, let¡¯s be husband and wife again in our next life!¡± Chen Zhengqing smiled, still fearless in the face of death. He held Nangong Yue¡¯s hand, calmly facing the blood palm.

    After eighteen years apart, they were reunited only to confront this dire crisis.

    Time and fate had turned against them.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Nangong Yue also held Chen Zhengqing¡¯s hand tightly with her eyes closed, ready to meet their end.

    Suddenly, an enormous golden palm, ten thousand meters wide, descended from the sky with unimaginable speed.

    <i>Rumble, rumble!</i>

    Heaven and earth shook under this enormous golden palm, causing everyone to sway unsteadily.

    The sudden turn of events left everyone present dumbfounded.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The enormous golden palm pressed down.

    Heaven and earth shook violently as mountains crumbled and the earth cracked open, stirring clouds of dust that rose ten thousand feet high.

    The Spring Autumn Sect members found themselves engulfed by the descending palm as if all were annihted beneath its weight.

    1. Wang Hui is an elder from the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s inner sect mission hall. He appeared in chapter 189. ?

 Chapter 747 - Annihilated with One Move

    <h4>Chapter 747 - Annihted with One Move</h4>

    The enormous golden palm blotted out the sky and sun, descending like an ancient god¡¯s hand, crushing everything beneath it.

    Heaven and earth shook, the stars fell, mountains and rivers shattered. The palm could seemingly end all life.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The enormous palm smashed down, shattering space and copsing a vast area of air as if overturning the sky itself. The earth cracked and twisted, creating a shocking sight, as thends and mountains trembled.

    Silence fell over heaven and earth, with only the faint echoes of tremors lingering.

    The palm had seemingly obliterated everyone from the Spring Autumn Sect, leaving no survivors.

    Feng Baiyu¡¯s mournful roar came from above the nine heavens, blood-red tears streaming down his cheeks. ¡°No!¡±

    <i>Boom, tch!</i>

    That blood demonmander seized the opportunity and struck Feng Baiyu with a palm strike, breaking his tendons and bones. Loud booms rang out repeatedly from inside him.

    ¡°Hahahaha, I wonder which expert of the holy cult hase. Please show yourself,¡± said the blood demonmanderughing, though even he felt a tremor of fear in the face of such an earth-shattering strike. Everything in its pathy destroyed.

    <i>Boom!</i>

    Gradually, the enormous golden palm dissipated, and the blood demonmander¡¯sughter froze in his throat.

    Below, the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people¡ªsupposedly dead¡ªwere alive and kicking. Instead, every blood demon under the golden palm had been crushed into a paste, their souls scattered to the winds.

    This turn of events left Feng Baiyu and the others astounded.

    The people on the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side broke out into a mor.

    ¡°Haha, I¡¯m alive, I¡¯m alive!¡±

    They had been certain that they would perish beneath the enormous palm, but it seemed fate had other ns.

    ¡°Really? I¡¯m still alive¡ªhahaha!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Where are we? Is this hell?¡±

    ¡°That palm earlier wasn¡¯t trying to kill us but save us?¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Everyone was touching and pinching themselves, some even pinching theirpanions hard, as they struggled to grasp their sudden good fortune.

    Chen Zhengqing and Nangong Yue also looked puzzled.

    Moments earlier, they had braced for death at the hands of an eighth-level Core Formation blood demon, but the golden palm had saved them, smashing the blood demon into a paste instead.

    Happiness arrived so unexpectedly!

    Feng Baiyu and the others felt their rage dissolve into joy.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know which senior intervened to save us, but please¡ªstrike once more and wipe out these blood demons!¡± Feng Baiyu cupped his fists and bowed toward the void. ¡°On behalf of our Spring Autumn Sect, I thank you for your immense grace.¡±

    Wei Buyu, High Elder Yun Tu, and the others also cupped their fists one after another.

    ¡°We humbly ask this senior to please take action!¡±

    In stark contrast, the blood demons¡¯ faces darkened. The third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demonmander¡¯s face turned grave. He had assumed the mysterious figure was an ally. Now, he realized that wasn¡¯t the case.

    A figure arrived at the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s side, crossing an immense distance instantly, as though the earth itself had shrunk beneath his feet.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    ¡°Sect Leader, Master, it¡¯s been five years. I trust you have been well since ourst meeting!¡±

    This figure was naturally Chen Fan.

    ¡°Chen Fan, it¡¯s you!¡±

    Feng Baiyu, Wei Buyu, and the others were momentarily stunned before their faces lit up with tion.

    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± Chen Fan nodded with a smile. His gaze fell on Chen Zhengqing and Nangong Yue, and he said, ¡°Father, Mother, I¡¯m back!¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan! Is that you? Is it really you?¡± Nangong Yue looked at Chen Fan, who stood resolutely in the void as if she were dreaming.

    The person who had saved them was her son, Chen Fan!

    ¡°Mother, it¡¯s me. I¡¯m back.¡±

    Chen Fan looked at his parents, a fierce glint shing across his eyes.

    The realization that he had nearly been toote ignited a dangerous fury within him.

    These blood demons deserved a thousand deaths for their sins!

    His cold gaze fell on the blood demonmander. His voice, heavy with killing intent, echoed through the air as he said, ¡°You bunch of worms who are neither human nor demon... you¡¯ve outworn my patience. It seems you didn¡¯t learn your lesson five years ago. This time, I¡¯ll uproot youpletely and make you regret evering into this world!¡±

    The blood demonmander sneered coldly, ¡°So, you¡¯re Chen Fan¡ªthe one who disrupted our ns and made us suffer heavy losses? How arrogant of you to speak of destroying the Blood Demon Cave! ¡®Na?ve¡¯ doesn¡¯t begin to describe you.¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s aura felt extremely dangerous, and the blood demonmander couldn¡¯t see through his cultivation level, but the Blood Demon Cave had swept through the Hong Domain with great momentum. With the awakening of the remaining three guardians and eight kings, the Blood Demon Cave would return to its former glory.

    ¡°The ignorant really are fearless.¡± Chen Fan shook his head, looking at the blood demonmander and the others like he was looking at a bunch of dead men.

    There was a time when Divine Nascent realm experts were high and mighty existences in his eyes; now, they were ants. He could kill them by just exhaling a bit harder.

    Chen Fan reached out with his hand, grabbing the primeval qi of heaven and earth within fifty thousand kilometers. It turned into a spiritual rain that rained down on Feng Baiyu and the others.

    It seemed like they were withered trees springing back to life. Their injuries recovered almost immediately, and their auras surged higher than before. For example, a peak-stage first-level Divine Nascent realm like the High Elder advanced to the second-level Divine Nascent realm.

    Such miraculous methods were beyond belief.

    The blessing didn¡¯t stop with Feng Baiyu and the others. The crowd below also experienced a surge in power as wounds healed and cultivations advanced by leaps.

    ¡°Sect Leader, Master, you should all rest at the side. Just leave these demonic beings to me.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s calm tone dismissed the blood demon army entirely.

    With a flick of his finger, a streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi burst forth, ripping through heaven and earth toward the blood demonmander.

    The sword qi made the sky darken, and the world seemed to dissolve into it.

    How could the third-level Divine Nascent realm blood demon expert even react in the face of such an unparalleled attack?

    He just... died.

    <i>Poof, poof, poof, poof, poof...</i>

    The streak of Green Lotus Sword Qi moved faster than lightning as it killed blood demon powerhouses one after another. It moved like a skewer pushing through a bunch of tender meat chunks. Wherever the skewer of light went, a Divine Nascent realm expert died; even their nascent soul couldn¡¯t escape.

    Yet, this wasn¡¯t the end.

    Killing fifteen Divine Nascent realm powerhouses did not deplete the Green Lotus Sword Qi. It darted toward its next victim: the blood demon army.

    In sixty seconds, the blood demon powerhouses were dead and so were the soldiers behind them.

 Chapter 748 - Cleansing

    <h4>Chapter 748 - Cleansing</h4>

    <i>Woo, woo, woo. Woo, woo, woo.</i>

    The world fell utterly silent, with only the faint whisper of the wind breaking the stillness.

    Everyone stood in stunned disbelief, unable to move or speak.

    Even Feng Baiyu and the others were frozen on the spot.

    What had they just witnessed?

    Chen Fan had annihted an army with a single streak of sword qi.

    The scene seemed to have grabbed their souls and smacked them left and right.

    They began questioning their reality, asking if their previous dire situation had made them imagine it all.

    The sound of sharp breaths filled the air as realization dawned, followed by the sting of self-inflicted pinches and the hushed murmur of disbelief.

    <i>Hiss, hiss!</i>

    And then¡ªan eruption.

    <i>Whoa!</i>

    ¡°This... this...¡±

    Some could barely speak, stammering through shock, while others gestured wildly, unable to find words.

    ¡°One attack,plete annihtion!¡±

    ¡°I must be dreaming. This can¡¯t be real. Was this myst thought before I died?¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the truth, the hell are you doing in my dream?¡±

    ¡°Your dream? You saw that too?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s real! Real!!!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, the blood demons are dead. They¡¯re all dead.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Some people cried, some peopleughed, and some seemed to have gone crazy.

    Feng Baiyu and the others also came back to their senses. They looked at Chen Fan like he was a monster.

    To destroy an army with one attack... Just how far had Chen Fan¡¯s power advanced?

    Their minds could scarcely contain it. For so many of them, reaching the Divine Nascent realm was the pinnacle of ambition.

    They had reached their goal¡ªand with it, lost the fervor of pursuit. After centuries of cultivation, many still hovered at the edge of the first and second levels of the Divine Nascent realm, their progress stagnating in ways they hadn¡¯t fully understood until today.

    Chen Fan¡¯s level of cultivation, his strength¡ªthese things were beyond their grasp.

    Feng Baiyu stared at Chen Fan, his lips dry and voice faint, as he asked, ¡°They¡¯re dead?¡±

    Chen Fan nodded and replied casually, ¡°They¡¯re dead.¡±

    <i>Hiss, hiss.</i>

    Another wave of sharp inhtions swept through the crowd as the magnitude of his words settled in.

    Feng Baiyu and the others finally epted this reality.

    The blood demon army, which had thrown them into the depths of despair, was gone, utterly obliterated by Chen Fan with a mere flick of his hand.

    All around, the ruins of the once-magnificent Spring Autumn Secty broken and scarred. The sect, a beacon of strength, now stood tattered, barely recognizable. Yet not one person seemed to care.

    They had survived!

    They survived certain death because Chen Fan had arrived in time.

    ¡°<i>Boo hoo</i>, that¡¯s great, that¡¯s great.¡±

    Some people cried from being overjoyed.

    ¡°Brother!¡±

    ¡°Master!¡±

    Tears streamed down many faces, some weeping from the joy of survival, others mourning fallen brothers, sisters, masters, and friends who hadn¡¯t made it.

    Feng Baiyu¡¯s gaze swept over the ravaged sect, and his voice echoed as he said, ¡°Everyone, we have no time to grieve. Our fallen brothers will not be forgotten. As for those of us who live, we carry their hopes on our shoulders. We¡¯ll live on well and cultivate hard to wipe out all the demonic beings in this world!¡±

    While the crisis at the Spring Autumn Sect was over, the Great Chu Empire and the entire Hong Domain still teetered on the edge of a muchrger threat.

    They had no time to grieve. They still needed to continue fighting the blood demons.

    ¡°Sect Leader, leave some people behind to rebuild the sect. The others,e with me. We cleanse the Great Chu Empire. I¡¯m going to wipe out all the blood demons!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s voice rang out, his killing intent reaching the clouds, shaking the universe.

    The killing intent in those words gave everyone chills.

    ¡°I-I want to go kill the blood demons. I¡¯m going to avenge my brother!¡±

    ¡°Me too. I¡¯m going to rip those demonic beings apart and take revenge for my master!¡±

    ¡°Me too.¡±

    ¡°Me...¡±

    Almost everyone mored to follow Chen Fan, eager to join him in purging the blood demons from the empire.

    Feng Baiyu began issuingmands, assigning some to stay behind to rebuild the Spring Autumn Sect. However, they seemed visibly frustrated; their hearts burned with the same desire for vengeance.

    ¡°Father, Mother, you should stay behind to rebuild the sect as well,¡± Chen Fan told Chen Zhengqing and the others.

    They all nodded, understanding his decision.

    Before departing, Chen Fan cast a true qi incarnation, leaving it to guard the sect. Even Heavenly Star realm blood demons would face certain death if they dared to approach it.

    Once the preparations wereplete, a cold glint of killing intent ignited in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes. Under Feng Baiyu and the others¡¯ lead, the entire force surged forward, crossing the horizon like a tidal wave.

    What had once been a fearful assault by the blood demons now reversed into a grand counterattack.

    The once-defensive disciples were transformed, their spirits raised by Chen Fan¡¯s presence. They were all in high spirits, their murderous qi reaching the clouds.

    Meanwhile, the nearest stronghold to the sect was also reaching its breaking point. Blood demon forces had ughtered countless orthodox disciples, pushing even Divine Nascent realm experts to their limits.

    Suddenly, heaven and earth shook as the new army approached, a unified force in the distance.

    ¡°It¡¯s the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s Feng Baiyu and the others!¡± eximed a Divine Nascent realm expert.

    The entire Great Chu Empire had fallen into the abyss of suffering from the blood cmity.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Close to eighty percent of the empirey in ruin, with only scattered strongholds serving as thest bastions of resistance.

    Every stronghold was under relentless assault by the blood demon armies, and the Spring Autumn Sect was no exception.

    The people were all shocked to see Feng Baiyu and the othersing. Murmurs of suspicion and fear rippled across the defenders; had the Spring Autumn Sect fallen? Had they surrendered to the blood demons?

    "Everyone from the Divine Light Sect," Feng Baiyu called out, "we havee to give you a helping hand to kill the blood demons!"

    Suspicion lingered. No one moved or cheered, hesitant to trust that these reinforcements hadn¡¯t turned traitors.

    However, Feng Baiyu¡¯s group quickly answered the question in their minds with practical actions.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Feng Baiyu and the others directly charged over,unching a frenzied killing spree against the blood demon army.

    The Divine Light Sect¡¯s people immediately cheered.

    ¡°Feng Baiyu, you guys...¡± The Divine Light Sect¡¯s Sect Leader was greatly puzzled.

    <i>Did they defeat the army attacking the Spring Autumn Sect?</i>

    <i>But how is that possible?</i>

    The answer came in an instant as Chen Fan stepped forward, raising his hand.

    With a flick of his finger, a streak of sword qi sliced through the air, cutting down twenty Divine Nascent realm blood demon experts in one stroke.

    <i>Hiss!</i>

    The Divine Light Sect¡¯s Sect Leader and the others all sucked in a breath of cold air. Their eyeballs trembled, seemingly about to pop out of their sockets.

    ¡°Brother Bai, what are you staring nkly for? Kill these minions. We still have to go to the next stronghold to kill the blood demons.¡± Feng Baiyu¡¯s voice pulled the Divine Light Sect¡¯s Sect Leader and the others back to reality. They all struck out perplexedly, bombarding the blood demon army below.

    Thus, under Chen Fan¡¯s lead, the cleansing of the blood demons in the Great Chu Empire began.

 Chapter 749 - Quelling the Blood Calamity in the Great Chu Empire

    <h4>Chapter 749 - Quelling the Blood Cmity in the Great Chu Empire</h4>

    The Great Chu Empire was in dire straits.

    After wiping out the blood demon army at the Divine Light Sect stronghold, Chen Fan led the people to continue annihting the blood demons.

    As they flew across thends, they saw many lifeless cities, overwhelmed by death qi, with no sign of vitality.

    The blood demon army had massacred these cities. Anger surged through the crowd, and their killing intent boiled over.

    The heavens will never tolerate the Blood Demon Cave''s existence!¡±

    Feng Baiyu and the others¡¯ killing intent spread uncontrobly in response to the purgatory-like devastation.

    Although the weak were like ants to them, they recognized that even ants had lives. They possessed the power to destroy cities but would not intentionally go on killing sprees.

    The blood demons¡¯ heinous actions ignited a desire to rush into the Blood Demon Cave¡¯sir, massacre the demons, and restore peace to the world.

    Under Chen Fan¡¯s lead, the remaining orthodox sects of the Great Chu Empire began killing the blood demons rampaging across the nation.

    The people all used to believe that their future was dark with no light in sight, but Chen Fan¡¯s return brought them hope.

    n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    No blood demon expert could survive the cmity that was Chen Fan. Numerous blood demon powerhouses joined forces to deal with him, but he dealt with them all with a single attack.

    Thus, the once unstoppable blood demon army rampaging through the Great Chu Empire became the hunted as the cleansing operationmenced.

    As they rescued one stronghold after another, the orthodox army cleansing the blood demons snowballed in size. They seemed invincible, killing the blood demon army to the point where they cried for their parents and knelt on the ground, begging for mercy.

    Rage and murderous intent brewed in the chests of the orthodox path. They did not show the slightest mercy to the blood demons. When they discovered them, there was only one thing to do: Kill!

    Kill without mercy!

    In just three days, the various strongholds in the Great Chu Empire were liberated. Chen Fan annihted the top brass of the blood demons alone, leaving them unable to rampage across the empire.

    Then, he handed the matter of cleansing the blood demon remnants over to Feng Baiyu and the others.

    One could only imagine the oue for a blood demon armycking Divine Nascent realm experts facing a group overflowing with killing intent.

    By this time, Chen Fan had already returned to the Spring Autumn Sect.

    In just three days, the destroyed buildings in the sect had been rebuilt, symbolizing the resurgence of vigor after a great cmity.

    However, these new structures could not hide the scars left by the intense battles in the surroundings.

    The Heavenly Vein Mountains, home to holy disciples, elders, and the sect leader, were also badly damaged when their tall peaks turned into war fortresses during the war.

    Now, only about twenty tall peaks remained standing in the Heavenly Vein Mountains, and their former grandeur was gone.

    ¡°Xiaofan.¡±

    ¡°Father, Mother, Grandfather...¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan, this blood cmity...¡± Chen Zhengqing looked at his son, wanting to say something but then hesitated.

    Chen Fan said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Father. We¡¯ve basically wiped out all the blood demons in the empire, leaving only some remnants. People are actively hunting them down. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re aware of the overall situation in the Hong Domain.

    ¡°Although we¡¯ve cleansed the blood demons within the empire, the situation of the Hong Domain as a whole remains grim. But now that I have returned, I willpletely get rid of this tumor that is the Blood Demon Cave.¡±

    ¡°Xiaofan, I heard that the Blood Demon Cave has awakened their experts from the past,¡± Chen Zhengqing said with a grave expression.

    Chen Fan¡¯s strength exceeded all expectations; he had killed fifteen blood demon powerhouses with a flick of his finger. To others, he seemed like a god or a devil, shocking heaven and earth and making gods and ghosts weep.

    Still, Chen Zhengqing grew increasingly concerned about potential retaliation from the Blood Demon Cave.

    The more he learned about the situation, the more he understood the terrifying power of the Blood Demon Cave from three thousand years ago.

    Now that the cave had awakened experts from the past, he worried that Chen Fan might not be a match for them.

    ¡°Father, Mother, you can rest assured. These awakened demonic beings don¡¯t pose a threat to me. Once Emperor Li¡¯s group locates the Blood Demon Cave¡¯sir, I¡¯ll lead a team of experts to thoroughly wipe it out!¡± Chen Fan said with a smile, full of confidence. He did not care about those so-called awakened blood demon experts.

    Half a month went by very quickly.

    Feng Baiyu and the others had killed all the blood demons in the entire Great Chu Empire. The royal family, which had defected to the blood demons, also did not escape punishment.

    During this period, Chen Fan did not go anywhere, apanying his parents in the Spring Autumn Sect.

    He was waiting for news from Li Yao¡¯s side.

    Meanwhile, the higher-ups of the Blood Demon Cave lost contact with the blood demonmanders in the Great Chu Empire, raising suspicions.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why have we lost contact with them? What exactly is happening?¡± shouted a Heavenly Star realm blood demon expert.

    ¡°The Great Chu Empire ranks around the lower-middle among the thirty-six nations of the Hong Domain. The strongest among them is only around the third or fourth-level Divine Nascent realm. Our experts should¡¯ve had no difficulties overturning the Great Chu Empire. It seems a significant problem has cropped up. We need to send someone to investigate,¡± another Heavenly Star realm blood demon replied.

    ¡°Has anything unusual urred with the armies attacking the other nations?¡±

    ¡°None. Only the Great Chu Empire has lost contact.¡±

    ¡°It looks like the Great Chu Empire isn¡¯t as simple as we thought. Perhaps some hidden expert has shown themselves. Send someone over to investigate.¡±

    A tall, sturdy Heavenly Star realm blood demon stood up, his voice like thunder. ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±

    ¡°Alright, Xue Kui, then you make a trip to the Great Chu Empire and see what¡¯s going on.¡±

    This blood demon known as Xue Kui nodded and walked out of the council hall.

    ¡°Everyone, are there any movements from the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s side?¡± asked the Heavenly Star realm blood demon sitting at the main seat.

    ¡°Reporting to King Kun, I heard that Emperor Li¡¯s son has returned with a group, but they¡¯re all only in the Divine Nascent realm. They¡¯re not enough to be a threat,¡± replied a Heavenly Star realm blood demon respectfully.

    ¡°That¡¯s good, then. The Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s side only managed to dy our Blood Demon Cave¡¯s path of conquest because of Wanderer White Brow, that old coot. However, Sir Man Guardian is about to recover to peak condition. They shall face annihtion then!¡± Xue Kun said with a cold smile filled with thick killing intent. [1]

    1. Xue Kun is King Kun. Chapter 747 mentioned 3 guardians and 8 kings. He¡¯s one of these kings. The guardians are Man, Earth, and Heaven. ?

 Chapter 750 - You Are Here to Die

    <h4>Chapter 750 - You Are Here to Die</h4>

    In the chaotic Hong Domain, ravaged by the blood cmity, the Great Chu Empire had be a rarend of peace. With the blood demons annihted, calm returned to the nation.

    News quickly spread that Chen Fan, once the top figure of the younger generation in the Great Chu Empire, had returned, and it was his return that ended the blood cmity.

    Stories circted of how he led the orthodox alliance army to kill the blood demons, eliminating their powerhouses with ease. With each retelling, Chen Fan¡¯s deeds grew more legendary, transforming him into a near-mythical figure.

    When Xue Kui arrived at the Great Chu Empire, he moved discreetly. He disguised himself as an ordinary traveler while gathering information.

    Standing atop a mountain peak, he fixed his gaze in the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s direction.

    ¡°Chen Fan...¡± A sharp glint shed across Xue Kui¡¯s eyes.

    Over the past few days, he had pieced together the events in the Great Chu Empire and realized that the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s forces had fallen at Chen Fan¡¯s hands.

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ¡°Very well, how dare you kill our Blood Demon Cave¡¯s people, Chen Fan. You¡¯re dead!¡± Xue Kui muttered to himself, filled with killing intent.

    Although the rumors painted Chen Fan as a god, Xue Kui analyzed them carefully, concluding that Chen Fan was indeed powerful, likely reaching the eighth or ninth level of the Divine Nascent realm.

    However, this level of cultivation meant little to Xue Kui. He sprang into motion, flying directly towards the Spring Autumn Sect.

    He would make Chen Fan pay a heavy price!

    In the Spring Autumn Sect, Chen Fan was cultivating at this moment.

    All of a sudden, he opened his eyes, gazing sharply into the distant void.

    His divine will had grown immensely powerful; not even the faintest movement could escape him.

    He noticed an unfamiliar Heavenly Star realm aura darting toward the sect.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Xue Kui appeared above the Spring Autumn Sect, his aura erupting without restraint and pressing down on heaven and earth. A terrifying pressure enveloped the sect, suffocating many.

    Even Divine Nascent realm experts like Feng Baiyu and others felt like ants under this heavy pressure.

    ¡°Chen Fan,e out and ept your death!¡± Xue Kui¡¯s thunderous shout echoed through the Spring Autumn Sect, causing weaker disciples to faint from the sheer impact.

    ¡°Heavens, who is that? What terrifying pressure!¡±

    ¡°Look, it¡¯s an expert from the Blood Demon Cave. So terrifying, what is his cultivation level?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over! The Blood Demon Cave has sent their elite!¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    The Spring Autumn Sect disciples looked on in horror, despair visible on their faces.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Feng Baiyu, Yun Tu, Wei Buyu, and the others shot into the sky, staring at Xue Kui with dread. They sensed a bottomless power within him, one that filled them with hopelessness.

    ¡°You are...¡± Feng Baiyu began, but before he could finish, Xue Kui struck.

    A huge, blood-colored hand descended from the sky, blotting out the sun as it crashed down.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Therge hand crushed the air, making it explode. Arge area of space copsed, turning into primal chaos.

    This blood-colored hand was like a palm of death. The loud booms were the beckoning calls of death.

    Before therge blood-colored hand fully descended, its terrifying pressure shattered the sect¡¯s Sect Protecting Grand Formation, breaking through as if it were mere paper.

    Without the formation¡¯s protection, the pressure on Feng Baiyu and the others became even more terrifying, pressing them from the sky to the ground, terror etched on their faces.

    It was too terrifying!

    So terrifying that they could not imagine it!

    It made them feel even less significant than ants.

    <i>Crack, crack, crack, crack...</i>

    The earth cracked immediately, and buildings copsed.

    However, before the palm could do any real damage, arge golden palm rushed out from the Heavenly Vein Mountains, growingrger as it traveled, smashing into the blood-colored hand.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An explosion resounded as the two forces shed, unleashing a torrent of qi waves that swept across the skies and ground.

    <i>Swish.</i>

    Chen Fan stepped into the air, standing opposite Xue Kui.

    ¡°So, you are Chen Fan?¡± Xue Kui looked at Chen Fan, narrowing his gaze.

    He had assumed that Chen Fan was in the eighth or ninth-level Divine Nascent realm. However, he couldn¡¯t perceive the cultivation level of the man standing before him, confusing him.

    ¡°You are here to die.¡± Chen Fan¡¯s statement wasn¡¯t a question¡ªit was a judgment.

    ¡°What? What did you say?¡± Xue Kui, stunned, repeated, ¡°You said I am here to die?¡±

    Chen Fan replied indifferently, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the case?¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha!¡± Xue Kuiughed out loud and said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re delusional, boy. I¡¯ve already done my homework. The number one figure of the Great Chu Empire¡¯s younger generation, a True Martial Academy disciple, yes, but five years ago, you hadn¡¯t even stepped into the Divine Nascent realm. I have to admit, your talent is not bad.

    ¡°Let¡¯s say your talent is extraordinary, pushing you to the eighth or ninth level, maybe even a half-step into the Heavenly Star realm. But to me, you¡¯re still nothing more than an ant.

    He squinted, scrutinizing Chen Fan as if trying to pierce through an illusion. ¡°I can¡¯t see through your cultivation. You¡¯ve probably used some technique to mask your level, haven¡¯t you?¡±

    Xue Kui did not believe Chen Fan could reach the Heavenly Star realm or even higher in five years.

    Chen Fan shook his head, unmoved. ¡°Fools tend to be blindly confident.¡±

    A cold glint shot out of Xue Kui¡¯s eyes. He revealed two rows of white teeth and said coldly, If anyone here is overconfident, that¡¯s you. You think your status as a True Martial Academy disciple makes you my equal? What a joke! I¡¯ll show you the true terror of a Heavenly Star realm cultivator!¡±

    Before his voice faded, a terrifying aura erupted from Xue Kui. Blood-colored true primeval rushed out from the top of his head like the ocean, dyeing the sky crimson.

    When the crowd below saw this scene, they all felt a deep sense of despair.

    It was too terrifying!

    They no longer had any confidence in Chen Fan.

    ¡°Blood Devil Murder!¡± Xue Kui shouted. A terrifying, hideous-looking blood devil walked out of the tumbling sea of blood. It was iparably cruel and rushed toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Xiaofan!¡±

    Chen Zhengqing, Nangong Yue, and the others felt their hearts tighten at the sight.

    ¡°Reckless fool.¡±

    Facing the oing blood devil, Chen Fan did not waver in the slightest. Not even his eyelids twitched. He simply pointed with his finger.

    Green Lotus Sword Qi shot out, tearing that blood devil in two, then went on to annihte Xue Kui under his horrified gaze.

 Chapter 751 - Found Their Lair

    <h4>Chapter 751 - Found Their Lair</h4>

    Silence!

    Heaven and earth instantly fell into silence!

    The Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s people, still praying moments before, froze, forgetting even to breathe.

    Wide-eyed, they stared at Xue Kui, who a second ago had radiated terrifying power, now reduced to a mist of blood with not even a corpse left behind.

    This crowd was stunned, unable to process the sight for some time.

    For Chen Fan, killing Xue Kui¡ªa Heavenly Star realm expert¡ªwas trivial. He would have simply ignored Xue Kui had he not been a blood demon.

    Chen Fan¡¯s figure blurred, disappearing from the sky.

    Finally, the crowd came back to their senses. They felt as if they had lost their souls, murmuring among themselves.

    ¡°He died?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not dreaming, am I? Xue Kui, that terrifying blood demon, was killed in one move...¡±

    ¡°It was too fast! It feels like a dream.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    Feng Baiyu, Yun Tu, and Wei Buyu exchanged nces and smiled bitterly.

    They had been worried that Chen Fan would be defeated; evidently, their worries were unfounded.

    ¡°Say, what exactly is Chen Fan¡¯s current cultivation level?¡± Wei Buyu asked.

    Feng Baiyu replied with a bitter smile, ¡°Who knows? He obliterated a Heavenly Star realm expert in one move. Effortlessly, too. He must be in the Heavenly Star realm himself¡ªor Xue Kui wouldn¡¯t have died so easily.¡±

    High Elder Yun Tu also said with a sigh, ¡°It looks like we¡¯ve all grown old, and our blood has gone cold. All we think about is protecting what little we have and avoiding the outside world.¡±

    Feng Baiyu said helplessly, ¡°I wanted to make him the next sect leader, but he rejected me. Looking back, his ambitions had already grown far beyond the Great Chu Empire. The title of sect leader, which others see as supreme honor and authority, would be nothing but a chain for Chen Fan.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Fortunately, he did not ept the position back then. Otherwise, he might still be struggling to reach the Divine Nascent realm.¡±

    As Chen Fan killed Xue Kui, far away in the Blood Demon Cave, Xue Kun received word immediately¡ªthe shattering of Xue Kui¡¯s soul jade tablet told him all he needed to know. [1]

    ¡°What? Xue Kui is dead!¡±

    The Heavenly Star realm blood demons were shocked. Although his strength ranked near the bottom among them, he was still in the Heavenly Star realm. Who in the measly Great Chu Empire could kill him?

    ¡°King Kun, what do you think about this matter?¡± asked a Heavenly Star realm blood demon.

    The Great Chu Empire had given them too big of a surprise.

    The blood demon army was gone, and Xue Kui was dead. It was a clear warning¡ªsomeone powerful was protecting the Great Chu Empire.

    Xue Kun¡¯s eyes flickered, and he said, ¡°Based on what we know, the Great Chu Empire likely has a Heavenly Star realm expert. And to kill Xue Kui, they have to be at the third level at the very least. They could be some hermit wanderer hiding deep in the mountains.¡±

    ¡°Then what do we do now? Should we send someone even stronger?¡± asked one of the demons.

    Xue Kun shook his head and said, ¡°No need for now! All this is just our spection. We still don¡¯t know if it¡¯s true. If that person isn¡¯t in the third-level Heavenly Star realm, but an even stronger martial artist, won¡¯t we be sending someone to their death again?¡±

    ¡°Are we just letting it go?¡± asked someone indignantly.

    ¡°Let it go?¡± Xue Kun smiled coldly and said, ¡°What¡¯s the rush? Once Sir Man Guardian fully recovers, our blood demon army will be invincible. We¡¯ll crush the Great Li Imperial Court first, and then wiping out the Great Chu Empire will be no harder than turning a hand.¡±

    ¡°Our priority is Sir Man Guardian¡¯s recovery. Everything else can wait. Understood?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± answered the Heavenly Star realm blood demons.

    Time passed, with Chen Fan waiting for news from Li Yao¡¯s side in the Spring Autumn Sect. Another half month went by.

    One day, a powerful aura approached at great speed.

    Chen Fan awoke from his meditation, opening his eyes. A luster shed across his eyes.

    Li Yao hade.

    Had he found the Blood Demon Cave¡¯sir?

    Feng Baiyu, Yun Tu, and Wei Buyu also sensed Li Yao¡¯s powerful aura, which was no weaker than Xue Kui¡¯s. They all rose into the air vigntly, thinking that another blood demon expert hade.

    <i>Swish!</i>

    Chen Fan appeared beside them and said, ¡°No need to be nervous. That¡¯s Li Yao.¡±

    Hearing this, the trio sighed in relief.

    <i>Whoosh!</i>

    Li Yao arrived within moments, his speed impressive.

    ¡°Chen Fan,¡± he greeted.

    ¡°Li Yao, it seems you guys have located theirir.¡±

    Li Yao nodded. ¡°Yes, we have some solid clues now.¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Chen Fan responded immediately, ¡°This time, I¡¯ll eradicate the Blood Demon Cave.¡±

    To some, this might sound arrogant, but Li Yao didn¡¯t see it that way.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    With a quick word to Feng Baiyu and the others, Chen Fan took to the sky with Li Yao, vanishing into the sea of clouds.

    Feng Baiyu, Yun Tu, and Wei Buyu were all lost in thought as they watched Chen Fan¡¯s disappearing figure.

    Great Li Imperial Court, the throne room:

    Emperor Li, Wanderer White Brow, and the others had all gathered here.

    ¡°We¡¯ve finally found the Blood Demon Cave¡¯sir. Whether we can eliminate this threat depends on Chen Fan,¡± Emperor Li remarked.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. So much time has passed. I wonder if the Man Guardian, Xue Huang, has fully recovered.¡±

    ¡°Say, do you think Chen Fan will be a match for Xue Huang?¡±

    ¡°I investigated him a bit and heard a few things about him. He¡¯s now the most prominent rising star in the eastern continent. I heard he has killed many seventh and eighth-level Heavenly Star realm old-timers. He¡¯s truly a living killing star.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I also inquired a little. I was really surprised.¡±

    ¡°......¡±

    n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Wanderer White Brow, Yuan Hengying, and the others discussed, waiting for Chen Fan to arrive.

    This time, they would concentrate all their strength on fighting the Blood Demon Cave. The key to victory was Chen Fan.

    Although they took the initiative to look into Chen Fan¡¯s deeds during this period, they still did not have absolute confidence in the uing tough battle.

    After all, the Blood Demon Cave was very powerful.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    While the crowd was talking among themselves, two wind-breaking noises rang out. Then, Chen Fan and Li Yao walked in.

    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡±

    The crowd narrowed their gazes when they saw Chen Fan.

    1. A simr item was introduced in chapter 79, called life tablet, but the wording is different now. ?

 Chapter 752 - Blood Refining Canyon

    <h4>Chapter 752 - Blood Refining Canyon</h4>

    ¡°He¡¯s here!¡±

    The crowd¡¯s eyes sharpened as Chen Fan entered as if they¡¯d found their backbone.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get to it¡ªwhere is the Blood Demon Cave¡¯sir?¡± Chen Fan asked directly, not mincing words.

    Emperor Li stepped forward and said, ¡°Based on our scouting, we¡¯re almost certain theirir is in Blood Refining Canyon.¡±

    Blood Refining Canyony deep in the Hong Domain¡¯s barren mountains, a treacherous, nearly lifeless region often regarded as a forbidden zone.

    ¡°Good enough. Let¡¯s head over there immediately. Dys could give them time to shift or fortify,¡± Chen Fan said.

    Wanderer White Brow and the others did not object; acting quickly worked in their favor.

    In the past, blood demons had roamed the Hong Domain in small numbers, creating minor disruptions.

    However, the recent resurgence of Blood Demon Cave experts, who had been in a deep slumber from past battles, allowed the blood demon army to terrorize the region.

    With the blood demons not yet fully recovered, moving swiftly could provide a significant advantage.

    ¡°Prepare to move out,¡± Wanderer White Browmanded. ¡°This time, we will eradicate the Blood Demon Cave entirely¡ªno future threats will remain!¡±

    As the strongest fighter here besides Chen Fan, his words carried considerable weight. His efforts had long been pivotal in resisting the blood demon army¡¯s previous raids.

    On the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s side, one of the three guardians from the past, the Man Guardian, had already awakened. Without Wanderer White Brow, the Great Li Imperial Court and the Hong Domain would have long since fallen.

    Orders quickly spread through the ranks.

    In this battle to eradicate the Blood Demon Cave, the core force was their group of Heavenly Star realm experts. However, the Divine Nascent realm and Core Formation realm experts were also indispensable.

    Within two hours, the troops assembled and set off toward Blood Refining Canyon in an imposing formation.

    ¡°Heavens, what a terrifying lineup. Are they preparing for a final battle against the Blood Demon Cave?¡±

    ¡°I heard they found the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s base camp. It seems they¡¯re ready to storm it.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s hope they seed; otherwise, where would that leave us?¡±

    ¡°The human race will win!¡± someone cried, igniting simr cheers.

    ¡°......¡±

    As the majestic army swept across the sky above the Great Li Imperial Court, countless people looked up in solemn awe.

    The blood demons had left devastation across the Hong Domain, turning each ce they touched into a nightmare. Naturally, everyone longed to see these monsters vanquished.

    Unable to join the fight, the people prayed fervently.

    ¡°May the heavens bless our human race. The human race will definitely win!¡±

    ¡°The human race will win!¡±

    Countless people cheered with all their might wherever the army passed.

    Blood Refining Canyon, their of the Blood Demon Cave:

    ¡°Reporting! Bad news, King Kun. There¡¯s big trouble!¡± A blood demon scout rushed into the hall in a panic.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, panicking like that? How unsightly!¡± Xue Kun¡¯s gaze turned cold. A terrifying pressure erupted, forcing the blood demon scout to his knees.

    ¡°Reporting to Sir, the Great Li Imperial Court¡¯s army is on its way here!¡± said the blood demon scout.

    ¡°Oh? They found our base camp and dared to march straight here?!¡± Xue Kun¡¯s eyes shed with a fierce light. He chuckled coldly, ¡°Perfect timing. Sir Man Guardian is nearly at his peak. Since they¡¯vee knocking, let¡¯s open our doors and give them a proper wee!¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, my Blood Ax has been itching for this.¡±

    ¡°This time, no one will live to tell the tale!¡±

    In the hall, the other Heavenly Star realm blood demonsughed strangely, seemingly fearless.

    Xue Kun stood up. A powerful aura erupted from him, sweeping out in all directions, suffocating the others. ¡°Pass on my orders. Get ready for battle!¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡± the blood demons replied, rising with a surge of dark qi that nearly blew the roof apart.

    ......

    The Blood Refining Canyon stretched for hundreds of kilometers, a concealedndscape of cliffs, towering mountains, and dense, tangled forests.

    Poisonous qi and miasma shrouded it all year round, thus people rarely came near it, and birds were non-existent here¡ªa natural fortress, perfect for the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s base.

    n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    A majestic army stood outside the Blood Refining Canyon.

    As the army¡¯sbined auras surged, the sky trembled, dispersing the poisonous miasma clinging to the Blood Refining Canyon.

    ¡°The Blood Refining Canyon is just ahead!¡± Emperor Li said, looking at therge canyon ahead.

    A fierce look flickered in Chen Fan¡¯s eyes, leading the charge like a bolt of lightning.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, directly kill our way in!¡±

    <i>Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    A thunderous roar echoed through the canyon as blood-colored beams of light burst from within, tearing through space like a flood of blood sweeping toward them.

    ¡°<i>Haaa</i>!¡± Wanderer White Brow and the others shouted, channeling their cultivation and unleashing several terrifying attacks, shattering this sea of blood sweeping toward them.

    ¡°Hahahaha, Wanderer White Brow, Imend you for finding ourir. Not bad at all. But it¡¯s a shame you¡¯ve marched to your graves!¡±

    Suddenly, sinisterughter filled the air. Several blood demons emerged from the canyon, cloaked in blood qi that billowed around them.

    ¡°Xue Kun, today is the day your Blood Demon Cave meets its end!¡± Wanderer White Brow said coldly.

    Xue Kun smiled disdainfully and said, ¡°Wanderer White Brow, you could resist Sir Man Guardian before because he still hadn¡¯t recovered. But now, he has absorbed enough qi and blood. His cultivation has fully recovered. Do you still think you people have a chance?

    ¡°We¡¯d nned to raze the Great Li Imperial Court in just a few days, but since you were so eager to meet your end, we¡¯re happy to oblige. The Blood Refining Canyon is a decent burial ce. It¡¯s your blessing to be able to be buried here.¡±

    Chen Fan couldn¡¯t be bothered engaging in a war of words. He stepped forward, standing at the front of the crowd.

    ¡°You talk too much nonsense. Where¡¯s that Man Guardian you keep talking about? Tell him toe out and ept his death!¡±

    Xue Kun¡¯s gaze became stern when he saw Chen Fan. He said coldly, ¡°Brat, how dare a mere fifth-level Heavenly Star realm cultivator like you spout nonsense in front of me. You really don¡¯t know your limits!¡±

    Before his taunts could fully settle in the air, Xue Kun''s figure blurred, transforming into a blood-red afterimage that vanished in an instant.

    Xue Kun appeared in front of Chen Fan, thrusting his palm toward Chen Fan¡¯s head with a hideous smile.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Yet, just as quickly as he struck, Xue Kun was sent flying back, his body crashing into the ground with brutal force, trailing a mist of blood. Theyer of protective true primeval around him exploded wildly, tattered and riddled with holes everywhere.

 Chapter 753 - Battling Man Guardian

    <h4>Chapter 753 - Battling Man Guardian</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    As Xue Kun¡¯s palm fell, Chen Fan countered with a powerful strike.

    The blood demon¡¯s face changed, realizing the might behind Chen Fan¡¯s attack. Like a volcanic eruption, the attack drowned out his palm strike and continued toward him.

    His organs cracked under the impact, his protective true primeval energy shattered, and he was hurled backward like a meteor, spitting blood.

    ¡°Ignorant fool,¡± Chen Fan spat, looking coldly at Xue Kun and retracting his hand.

    <i>Whoa!</i>

    The blood demons were astounded to see Xue Kun being thrown back by one strike. Their eyeballs nearly popped out from the shock.

    For the Blood Demon Cave, aside from the Cave Master, the three guardians and eight kings possessed the greatestbat strength.

    Xue Kun¡ªrenowned as King Kun¡ªwas one of the eight kings at the eighth level.

    However, a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm brat had sent Xue Kun flying, making him spew blood. The sheer shock of it left them speechless.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    Xue Kun¡¯s feet left heavy imprints in the void as he struggled to steady himself, his gaze on Chen Fan filled with terror.

    <i>How is this possible?</i>

    How could someone at the fifth level of the Heavenly Star realm be so fearsome?

    As an eighth-level cultivator, he should have crushed Chen Fan like an insect, yet hey wounded from just one strike.

    ¡°Man Guardian, show yourself. How long do you n to hide?¡±

    Chen Fan ignored Xue Kun, staring into the void instead. Then, he unleashed a Northern Star Reaper Hand there.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A blood-colored palm seal sted out from the void, colliding with the Northern Star Reaper Hand, leading to an explosion that shook heaven and earth intensely.

    The Man Guardian, Xue Huang, emerged from within the chaos, wearing a golden-bordered blood robe.

    ¡°Brat, who are you?¡± Man Guardian looked at Chen Fan, somewhat shocked inside.

    Though Chen Fan¡¯s cultivation was at the fifth level, hisbat strength rivaled that of the ninth level, even pressuring him.

    <i>Where did this brate from?</i>

    ¡°A dead man doesn¡¯t need to know my identity,¡± Chen Fan said indifferently.

    Man Guardian was indeed at the ninth-level Heavenly Star realm. He was simr to those old timers Chen Fan had killed toplete academy missions. He was a very terrifying existence.

    Xue Huang¡¯s eyes shed with killing intent. Three thousand years ago, he was a feared figure across the Hong Domain, and now, this young upstart dared to insult his prestige.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, I can guess your identity without an introduction. You¡¯re a disciple of the True Martial Academy, and given your strength, you are likely from Peerless Peak. You are probably that Chen Fan guy who has recently risen to fame,¡± Man Guardian deduced with a cold sneer.

    Chen Fan did not deny it. He looked at Man Guardian with a cold gaze and said, ¡°Cut the nonsense. You demonic beings have thrown the Hong Domain into chaos, cutting many innocent lives mercilessly short. They failed to eradicate you three thousand years ago, but today, the Blood Demon Cave will fall. From this day on, it will no longer exist on Tianwu Continent!¡±

    The Blood Demon Cave¡¯s experts rebuked, their voices echoing with contempt.

    ¡°Insolence!¡±

    ¡°Shameless boasting!¡±

    ¡°Na?ve!¡±

    Xue Huang smiled coldly and said, ¡°Hoho, it seems the recent fame has gone to your head, making you think you stand above everyone else! Our Blood Demon Cave survived that war three thousand years ago, yet you believe you can destroy it with mere words? Ridiculous!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll see soon enough if it¡¯s ridiculous!¡± Chen Fan shot back, unwilling to waste more words. He charged at Man Guardian, shrinking the space between them in a single stride.

    ¡°Die!¡± An icy voice resounded in space. Immediately, the atmosphere in the Blood Refining Canyon became iparably somber.

    Wanderer White Brow, Yuan Hengying, Emperor Li, and the others also charged toward the blood demons, their killing intent boiling over. Their qi reached the clouds, and their cultivation erupted, causing heaven and earth to lose their colors.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, brat, today I, Xue Huang, shall end your legend in the eastern continent!¡± Fierce killing intent zed in Xue Huang¡¯s eyes as he unleashed his aura, gripping a blood saber.

    ¡°sh!¡±

    With a fierce shout, Xue Huang shed out, nearly splitting heaven and earth into two.

    The attack could kill even an eighth-level Heavenly Star realm expert, demonstrating how powerful Xue Huang was after recovering.

    Still, Chen Fan remained unfazed. He thrust his palm forward. A terrifying palm seal shook thends, violently shing with that blood-colored saber light.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    It was like heaven and earth exploded. The ground shook, mountains swayed, the sky seemed to copse, and thend sank.

    A terrifying storm instantly swept out. Even seventh-level Heavenly Star realm martial artists would be injured if they were caught in this storm.

    As Chen Fan and Xue Huang shed, Wanderer White Brow and the others engaged Xue Kun and his allies.

    Both sides collided like raging torrents, igniting a fierce, earth-shaking battle.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Deafening booms resounded non-stop. All kinds of powerful cultivation techniques shed. The entire space instantly copsed.

    This battle raged even more intensely than the Spring Autumn Sect¡¯s stand against the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s advance.

    Here, Heavenly Star realms were the real corebat strength; Divine Nascent realm martial artists were mere bystanders, unable to sway the oue.

    ¡°Ahhh...¡± Blood mists filled the air as many were torn apart in an instant.

    ¡°World Extermination!¡± Xue Huang punched Chen Fan with his left hand.

    The heavens copsed, explosions thundered, and the surrounding space surged with volcanic fury. Killing moves were flying everywhere. True primeval gathered into numerous blood-colored volcanoes that spread endlessly, squeezing inward, and blood-colored magma flowed in all directions.

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>!¡± Chen Fan snorted coldly, sweeping out horizontally with the Purgatory Divine Halberd. A terrifying halberd light tore through heaven and earth unstoppably, shattering the blood-colored volcanoes in its path.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Simultaneously, Chen Fan attacked with his left hand.

    Flood Dragon Fist Scripture!

    The fist energy was like a golden flood dragon, rushing toward Xue Huang with unparalleled ferocity, suppressing the world, wanting to tear him into pieces.

    Xue Huang¡¯s expression changed, sensing grave danger.

    ¡°Blood sh Wastnds!¡± Xue Huang roared, channeling his power and shing out violently with his blood saber.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    An explosion that shook heaven and earth rang out. It was like a nuclear warhead had exploded in the sky. Golden light rays and blood-colored light rays rippled out in all directions blindingly.

    <i>Thump, thump, thump!</i>

    Amid that storm, Xue Huang was pushed back repeatedly, unable to steady himself.

 Chapter 754 - Earth Guardian

    <h4>Chapter 754 - Earth Guardian</h4>

    The superiority between Chen Fan and Xue Huang became clear from this single sh.

    <i>Pfft!</i>

    Xue Huang spewed out a mouthful of fresh blood, shooting backward like a cannonball and tumbling mid-air. The impact had riddled the blood-coloredyer of light surging around him.

    Everyone present waspletely astounded.

    The blood demons¡¯ expressions changed drastically, surprised to see Man Guardian Xue Huang fall into a disadvantage. They were shocked to their souls.

    ¡°Old fart.¡± Chen Fan raised his arm, pointing his Purgatory Divine Halberd at Xue Huang, and said, ¡°I¡¯ve killed many old fools like you. You¡¯re not the first, nor will you be thest. Today, the Blood Demon Cave will be eradicated!¡±

    His domineering voice shook thends, leaving the blood demons¡¯ minds shaken.

    If Chen Fan seeded in killing Xue Huang, their Blood Demon Cave might truly face annihtion.

    Xue Huang steadied himself, staring at Chen Fan with a gloomy gaze, his eyes flickering. He also hadn¡¯t expected Chen Fan to be this terrifyingly strong.

    ¡°You want to eradicate our Blood Demon Cave? You¡¯re still not qualified!¡± Xue Huang said coldly.

    ¡°Whether I¡¯m worthy is for me to decide, not you!¡± Chen Fan¡¯s aura exploded, radiating the terrifying might of a battle god. With unstoppable strides, he charged at Xue Huang, emanating a crushing force.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    He shed with his halberd, forcefully tearing through the air. The space let out a furious roar, shaking intensely.

    A terrifying halberd light of death flew toward Xue Huang.

    ¡°Roar!¡± Xue Huang roared out loud. His blood-colored true primeval boiled and burned. His aura erupted wildly as he pushed his cultivation to the limit, making waves of blood-colored light shoot out from his blood saber.

    <i>C!</i>

    Behind Xue Huang, the fearsome silhouette of a blood emperor manifested, casting an emperor¡¯s oppressive might over the battlefield. This immense power seemed to cross time and space, descending from the void to empower him.

    ¡°Blood Emperor sh!¡±

    As he chopped down, the blood emperor behind him mirrored the motion. Its illusory blood saber aligned with Xue Huang¡¯s, their energies merging and amplifying, carving through space with lethal precision.

    <i>Pop, pop. Pop, pop, pop...</i>

    The saber and the halberd had yet to sh, but their auras and force fields collided, setting off explosive shockwaves. Space crackled and boomed, the chaotic storm enveloping the surrounding air.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The saber and halberd shed like two zing suns colliding in fury.

    Blinding light instantly enveloped the entire Blood Refining Canyon, making it impossible to discern what was happening at the heart of the sh.

    <i>Boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom...</i>

    The relentless explosions echoed, rumbling like a monstrous beast as the two forces battled for supremacy within the storm.

    <i>Tap, tap, tap...</i>

    Momentster, two figures emerged from the torrent of energy, retreating from the sh, looking visibly worn.

    Chen Fan narrowed his gaze, looking at Xue Huang as he acknowledged that the old monster was terrifying.

    This Blood Emperor sh had truly been formidable, unleashing a fierce force that surged into him.

    Yet, Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body¡ªalready at level 14 and close to reaching 15¡ªhad withstood the assault. Since his time in the Little Demon Realm, his strength had grown exponentially.

    But Xue Huang was feeling even more shocked inside.

    The Blood Emperor sh had been an ace up his sleeve. He still couldn¡¯t gain the slightest advantage from this exchange. Chen Fan¡¯s strength was unfathomable¡ªwell beyond what anyone at the fifth-level Heavenly Star realm should wield.

    It was unthinkable!

    In disbelief, Xue Huang grappled with the reality before him. Could this really be the strength of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Peerless Peak?

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan growled, forcing down the turbulent energy within himself, refining the remnants of Xue Huang¡¯s attack. His true primeval surged within him like the roar of a thousand-man army, his gaze locked onto Xue Huang as he charged forward with unstoppable force.

    Xue Huang took a deep breath, his eyes narrowed. In the face of Chen Fan¡¯s oppression, he had nowhere to retreat. His only choice was to fight, risking his life.

    <i>Boom, boom. Rumble!</i>

    The two collided with explosive force, a cataclysmic shockwave tearing through the heavens and earth, leaving mountains and ground shattered in their wake.

    ¡°Old fart, if this is the best you¡¯ve got, then today marks your end!¡±

    Chen Fan fought increasingly valiantly, quickly suppressing Xue Huang.

    He wielded the Purgatory Divine Halberd like an executioner, each deadly swing creating an imprable of light around Xue Huang.

    Several wounds of varying depths appeared on Xue Huang. He was covered in blood and looked to be in a sorry state. Under Chen Fan¡¯s rain of attacks, Xue Huang was beaten back repeatedly and in danger.

    Emperor Li and Wanderer White Brow saw Chen Fan beating down Xue Huang. If this continued, Chen Fan would soon kill Xue Huang. Their blood boiled and their auras soared, killing the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s experts with greater fervor, spilling blood everywhere.

    ¡°Hahahaha, kill!¡± Sacred white lights blossomed from Wanderer White Brow as if he had the power to cleanse the world.

    The waves of light dissolved Xue Kun''s defenses, forcing him back as titanic palm strikes filled the air, blotting out the sun.

    Xue Kun staggered, coughing up blood repeatedly, each blow leaving him weaker and more battered. Already injured from Chen Fan¡¯s earlier strike, he was no match for Wanderer White Brow¡¯s onught.

    Suddenly, Xue Huang cried miserably.

    <i>Ah!</i>

    Fresh blood spurted in the air.

    Xue Huang stumbled back, blood spurting from a deep gash. His chest was sliced open from chin to belly, bones and organs nearly visible.

    Chen Fan had almost cleaved him in two with a single, brutal sweep of the Purgatory Divine Halberd.

    Standing tall, Chen Fan held his bloodstained halberd at an angle, gazing down at Xue Huang with chilling indifference. "Old fool, are you ready to ept death?"

    Xue Huang¡¯s miserable state affected Xue Kun and the other Blood Demon Cave experts. Their expressions changed drastically, their minds wavering. Wanderer White Brow, Emperor Li, and the others seized this opportunity and struck them, breaking their tendons and bones. Pained cries rang out repeatedly.

    ¡°Meet your death!¡±

    Chen Fan did not give Xue Huang a chance to catch his breath. As soon as his voice faded, he shed at Xue Huang powerfully, wrapped in boundless cold killing intent. He was determined to end Xue Huang in one stroke, not leaving any future threats behind.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    But just as his blow was about to fall, a rumbling shockwave tore through the battlefield. The very ground trembled as an explosion erupted from the depths of Blood Refining Canyon¡ªthe heart of the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s base camp.

    A terrifying blood-colored hand crossed the sky, crushing the void and darting toward Chen Fan.

    This sudden turn of events shocked Chen Fan. His eyes narrowed fiercely, emitting a cold light. He diverted his sh that was meant for Xue Huang toward the oing blood palm.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    A loud explosion rang out. The blood palm was shed in two, but Chen Fan was also pushed back by a terrifying force, his clothes fluttering fiercely.

    <i>Roar!</i>

    An extended roar rang out from the copsed Blood Demon Cave¡¯s base camp, which transformed into blood-colored sonic waves that spread out in all directions, shaking the mountains and cracking the earth.

    A figure dressed in blood robes with golden borders rose to the sky, emitting a fear-inducing aura. Heaven and earth trembled intensely under his aura.

    ¡°That is... Sir Earth Guardian!¡± Xue Kun and the others eximed in shock.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 755 - Terrifying Clash

    <h4>Chapter 755 - Terrifying sh</h4>

    ¡°That is... Sir Earth Guardian!¡± Xue Kun eximed in shock.

    Once, the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s strength was legendary, with its Three Guardians¡ªHeaven, Earth, and Man¡ªand Eight Kings.

    Together, they had been an indomitable force, facing off against the elite warriors of the Hong Domain in a cataclysmic war three thousand years ago.

    The Blood Heavenly Demon Sect was nearly eradicated in the ancient war, its nine pces, thirty-six halls, and a hundred and eight branches all but destroyed.

    Back then, the Hong Domain was the Blood Demon Cave¡¯s main battlefield. Thend had been torn apart by their battles, and rivers of blood had flowed as good shed with evil.

    In the end, justice prevailed, and the Blood Demon Cave suffered devastating losses.

    The once-feared Cave Master, guardians, and kings had all been decimated or disappeared.

    ording to ancient records, the Heaven Guardian and Earth Guardian had died in that war, leaving only the Man Guardian, who barely escaped with grave injuries.

    But now, standing before them, alive and unscathed, was Earth Guardian Xue Luan¡ªa figure they had believed lost to history.

    ¡°How is this possible? Wanderer White Brow muttered, his usually calm demeanor disrupted. He was a man deeply familiar with the ancient conflicts; he felt the weight of past horrors looming once again. ¡°The records imed the Heaven and Earth Guardians, along with seven of the kings, fell in that war. How could Xue Luan still be alive?¡±

    ¡°Hahahaha, great. Earth Guardian is still alive. He¡¯s still alive!¡±

    Xue Kun and the other experts of the Blood Demon Cave were also unaware that Earth Guardian was still alive. After their initial shock, they immediately came back to their senses and cheered.

    The Earth Guardian was not dead. Now that he had awakened and even returned to peak condition, how could they not be excited?

    Man Guardian, Xue Huang, was no match for Chen Fan, but with Earth Guardian Xue Luan¡ªanother super expert¡ªjoining the battle, their losing fight could turn around in moments.

    Once a powerful figure of the past, Xue Luan ranked third inbat strength, second only to the Cave Master and the Heaven Guardian.

    Chen Fan stood in the air, looking at Xue Luan with a solemn gaze.

    He sensed an unusually dangerous aura from that demon, surpassing any threat he¡¯d ever encountered in his highest-stakes missions.

    Earth Guardian Xue Luan was a formidable opponent.

    Xue Huang also let out a sigh of relief seeing Xue Luan appearing and said with a smile, ¡°Xue Luan, you¡¯ve finally recovered!¡±

    He was the only one in the Blood Demon Cave who knew Xue Luan had survived.

    Though Xue Luan could have regained his full strength long ago, Xue Huang had dyed his recovery to share half his qi and blood power with Xue Luan.

    Xue Huang had kept this secret from Xue Kun and the others, holding Xue Luan as a hidden ace to handle any unforeseen threats.

    Xue Luan crossed the sky, standing shoulder to shoulder with Xue Huang. He looked at Chen Fan and said, ¡°Xue Huang, seems we¡¯ve fallen behind. I didn¡¯t expect you to be injured by a fifth-level Heavenly Star realm brat to this extent.¡±

    Xue Huang replied, ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate him. He¡¯s Chen Fan, the eastern continent¡¯s rising star. He¡¯s a disciple of the True Martial Academy¡¯s Peerless Peak. Remember those freaks? The fact that he could join them should be enough to exin everything.¡±

    ¡°Ahh, those madmen. Unfortunately, a genius from the Peerless Peak will die today!¡± Xue Luan said, smiling.

    Xue Huang looked at Chen Fan with a cold smile and said, ¡°Brat, I told you, you¡¯re not qualified to wipe out our Blood Demon Cave. Today is your doom, the end of your legend!¡±

    ¡°Enough nonsense¡ªkill!¡± Xue Luan darted toward Chen Fan before his voice faded. It was as if a furnace was burning inside him; boundless true primeval surged out violently.

    ¡°Blood Sea Flips the Heaven!¡±

    With a thrust of his palm, a churning sea of blood took shape, forming an enormous blood-red hand that seemed capable of shattering the heavens, striking straight toward Chen Fan.

    ¡°Blood Emperor sh!¡±

    Xue Huang also executed his strongest killing move, determined to give Chen Fan no chance to escape or counter.

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    Their powerful attacks sealed the space on either side, leaving Chen Fan with no way out.

    The terrifying energy filled the air, capable of leveling mountains and parting seas. Even a ninth-level Heavenly Star realm expert would be obliterated by this onught.

    Intense pressure pressed down on Chen Fan, making his breathse in shallow gasps, but his eyes showed no fear.

    <i>Boom, boom. Boom, boom, boom!</i>

    Booming noises came from inside Chen Fan. That was his cultivation circting fiercely, his aura instantly peaking.

    Resplendent golden light erupted from Chen Fan. It seemed like he had been cast from gold, his defenses raised to their absolute limit¡ªunyielding and unbreakable.

    ¡°Flood Dragon Fist Scripture!¡±

    ¡°Green Lotus Sword Qi!¡±

    Chen Fan shed out with the Purgatory Divine Halberd with his right hand. A streak of extremely sharp sword qi erupted from the halberd. This sword qi was so powerful it could break through heaven and earth and destroy the universe.

    With his left arm, he struck forward as the roar of a flood dragon echoed across the sky. A golden dragon burst forth, ripping through the air as it aimed to obliterate everything in its path.

    <i>Thump!</i>

    <i>Thump, thump!</i>

    Chen Fan¡¯s attacks collided with Xue Huang and Xue Luan¡¯s attacks. Only the sound of explosions between both parties remained in heaven and earth. This sound was like the explosion from the beginning of heaven and earth.

    At the point of impact, the space instantly shattered, turning into primal chaos.

    <i>Boom, boom...</i>

    A frightening storm instantly swept out like a tsunami, surging violently, sweeping through heaven and earth.

    The white clouds shattered, the earth cracked, and the mountains crumbled. Destruction was everywhere.

    Wanderer White Brow, Xue Kun, and the others had stopped fighting. The crowd flew away to avoid that terrifying shockwave. Everyone¡¯s minds were overwhelmed with shock.

    This shockwave was so terrifying that even seventh and eighth-level Heavenly Star realm experts like them would be heavily injured if they were caught in it.

    Both sides had already stopped fighting, each upying an area, staring fixedly at the storm.

    Now, even seventh and eighth-level Heavenly Star realm experts like them had be extras.

    The true contenders¡ªChen Fan, Xue Luan, and Xue Huang¡ªheld the fate of the conflict.

    Wanderer White Brow and the others¡¯ brows were tightly furrowed.

    Xue Luan¡¯s arrival had been an unforeseen twist, bringing a force stronger than Xue Huang¡¯s. Could Chen Fan hold up against the two¡¯s besiegement?

    On the other hand, the faces of Xue Kun and the other people of the Blood Demon Cave were filled with joy.

    With this, the scale of victory would be tipped toward their side.

    In their opinion, no matter how powerful Chen Fan was, he would never be a match facing both Xue Huang and Xue Luan!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 756 - Berserk Battle

    <h4>Chapter 756 - Berserk Battle</h4>

    <i>Rumble!</i>

    The sky shook and boomed endlessly as vast areas of space copsed, spreading destruction in all directions. The shockwave obliterated the surrounding mountains, reducing them to rubble.

    Wanderer White Brow, Xue Kun, and the others felt their scalps tingling.

    <i>Swish, swish.</i>

    Suddenly, Chen Fan flew out of the storm.

    Meanwhile, Xue Huang and Xue Luan also emerged from the storm, but their condition was far superior to Chen Fan''s. They had gained the upper hand in that earth-shattering collision.

    Chen Fan''s qi and blood churned violently within him like a stormy sea refusing to be calmed.

    Wiping away the blood at the corner of his lip, Chen Fan looked at Xue Luan and Xue Huang icily.

    They met his gaze, feeling a twinge of disbelief.

    They had failed to severely injure Chen Fan despite theirbined efforts and overwhelming attack¡ªthis was simply unbelievable. Together, they should have been capable of battling a peak Heavenly Star realm expert.

    ¡°Chen Fan, your doom hase!¡±

    Though unsettled by Chen Fan''s strength, Xue Huang and Xue Luan believed firmly that they would ultimately overpower him.

    N?v(el)B\\jnn

    ¡°<i>Hmph</i>, save your breath! You two old farts might put up a fight together, but today, I will tear you apart and send you to the king of hell!¡±

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes were fierce and his words were sharp.

    ¡°You sharp-tongued little bastard, do you think a few words can change your fate? How na?ve!¡± Xue Luan said coldly, a chilling glint shining in his eyes.

    ¡°Die!¡± Chen Fan did not waste any more time talking and channeled his cultivation, charging toward the two.

    ¡°Little bastard, go to hell!¡±

    Xue Luan and Xue Huang also rushed forth, their berserk auras blooming. Blood-colored true primeval rippled, turning into streaks of blood-colored divine lights that struck out in all directions.

    <i>Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom...</i>

    Chen Fan wielded the Purgatory Divine Halberd like a dancer, striking out continuously and shing through the void. Every strike was heavy, able to shatter mountains and stars.

    <i>Bang!</i>

    Xue Luan¡¯s palm strikended on Chen Fan¡¯s back, producing sparks.

    Chen Fan staggered in the air from the impact; simultaneously, he countered by sweeping his halberd horizontally, sending Xue Huang flying.

    ¡°Die, die, die!¡±

    ¡°Fight, fight, fight!¡±

    Chen Fan and Xue Luan collided brashly.

    Each collision was like a meteor crashing onto the earth. It was very terrifying, striking fear into Wanderer White Brow and the others.

    They could hardly fathom such terrifying collisions; if they were involved, a single strike would have buried them.

    Drenched in blood, Chen Fan attacked relentlessly.

    Utilizing the power of the Hegemonic Golden Body, he abandoned defense,unching a flurry of killing moves that forced Xue Luan and Xue Huang to spew blood repeatedly.

    Yet, Xue Luan and Xue Huang also pummeled Chen Fan, causing him to spurt blood and breaking his tendons and bones.

    ¡°Damn it, this little bastard¡¯s physique is too scary!¡±

    Xue Luan and Xue Huang looked at Chen Fan with grave expressions.

    Their attacks, which would obliterate any eighth-level Heavenly Star realm martial artist, merely left Chen Fan shaken. When their strikesnded on him, it felt as if they had hit a steel te, sending sparks flying everywhere. They could only wonder how strong Chen Fan¡¯s physique had be.

    Xue Huang¡¯s aura was in slight disarray, as Chen Fan had relentlessly targeted him throughout the intense battle.

    Chen Fan had already heavily injured him, causing hisbat strength to drop to sixty to seventy percent. Under Chen Fan¡¯s following relentless bombardment, Xue Huang struggled to hold his ground.

    If it hadn¡¯t been for Xue Luan to step in and defend him, Xue Huang would have been blown away by Chen Fan long ago.

    Chen Fan was also in a very miserable state.

    Although they couldn¡¯t break through Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body, their attacks shook his organs, leaving his internal condition precarious.

    Chen Fan¡¯s eyes flickered ferociously, his mind spinning quickly.

    <i>This won¡¯t do; I must kill Xue Huang first!</i>

    Although the Hegemonic Golden Body was iparably powerful, the severe damage to his organs posed a significant danger.

    ¡°<i>Heh heh</i>, old farts, you can¡¯t break through my golden body, that means you can¡¯t kill me. But I¡¯m curious¡ªcan you withstand my attacks? Are your bodies as tough as mine?¡± Chen Fan smirked coldly.

    Xue Luan and Xue Huang¡¯s expressions were incredibly grave.

    They had assumed that killing Chen Fan would be easy if theybined their strengths. Now, they realized that eliminating him would be a monumental task.

    Chen Fan¡¯s Hegemonic Golden Body was like a tortoise¡¯s shell; he didn¡¯t even attempt to defend himself, inviting their strikes, yet they couldn¡¯t breach it.

    Meanwhile, they dared not adopt the same approach against Chen Fan¡¯s ferocious counterattacks, knowing their physiques couldn¡¯t match his.

    ¡°Hehe, die!¡± Chen Fan grinned, revealing two rows of white teeth. His figure blurred, rushing toward the two once more like a meteorite.

    ¡°Little bastard, I don¡¯t believe your organs are also made of iron!¡± A ferocious glint shed across Xue Luan¡¯s eyes.

    In a sh, both sides collided once more.

    <i>Boom, boom. Rumble!</i>

    The space trembled violently as qi currents erupted, swirling outwards in all directions. Three feet of the earth was scraped away, and a spider web-like crack kept spreading.

    The entire continent was about to shatter from the impact, seemingly sinking in.

    Chen Fan had already made up his mind to get rid of Xue Huang first, nning to concentrate his power on Xue Luan afterward. Thus, he attacked Xue Huang crazily, beating him to the point of spewing blood continuously.

    ¡°Green Lotus Sword Qi!¡±

    ¡°Flood Dragon Fist Scripture!¡±

    ¡°Sword of Kassapa!¡±

    Chen Fan executed three heaven-tier martial arts in an instant, causing heaven and earth to lose their colors and the sun and moon to lose their light, bombarding Xue Huang doggedly.

    Xue Huang, heavily injured and terrified, knew he stood no chance against such overwhelming force.

    ¡°Xue Luan, save me!¡±

    In peak condition, he still would have struggled to withstand these attacks; now, death loomed closer.

    ¡°Little bastard, stop!¡±

    Xue Luan also saw through Chen Fan¡¯s ns. So, he could not watch as Xue Huang got killed.

    ¡°Get lost!¡± Chen Fan did not care. Green Lotus Sword Qi shot out from his back, stopping Xue Luan¡¯s rescue attempt.

    Chen Fan''splexion paled. Even with his solid foundation, executing three heaven-tier martial arts consecutively was taking its toll.

    ¡°Ahhh, you damned bastard. You¡¯re courting death, courting death!¡±

    Boundless blood-colored true primeval surged out from Xue Luan. He formed several seals with his hands, conjuring a blood devil¡¯s hand in an instant, adorned with countless hideous, eerie patterns.

    Each of those lines emitted terrifying power fluctuations that were enough to strike fear into ordinary ninth-level Heavenly Star realm experts.

    ¡°Heavenly Corpse Blood Devil Seal!¡±

    A gloomy voice resounded in heaven and earth. This blood devil¡¯s hand formed into a fist seal and sted out violently.

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